Mine/Counter-Mine

Yesterday, I walked over to St. Andrews Castle to do something I haven't done since I was in my twenties.  It was such a beautiful day that after my workout, I wanted to stay outside and take a walk.  Once I got over to the Castle, I decided to go sub-terranean and explore the mine/counter-mine system in the Castle.  It is not something you want to do if you are claustrophobic or over 200 pounds.  (well, one out of two isn't bad)  The mine was originally dug by the Earl of Arran and his battery of attackers around 1546. Their intent was to dig under the foundation of the Castle walls and weaken its support.  The counter-mine was dug by the defenders of St. Andrews Castle in an effort to intercept the attackers and only had the sound of digging to guide them.  It is quite amazing while you're down there because the counter-mine wiggles around quite a bit and is very narrow (you spend most of your time on your hand and knees navigating it) while the mine actually feels like a cellar.  What a different world it was back then and it's exciting to think about while you're down below ground in close quarters wondering what it must have been like then.  To even things off, I climbed the 151 steps of St. Rules Tower to get a birds-eye view of the wonderful old town of St. Andrews and the North Sea. It is simply breathtaking on a clear, sunny day.

Welcome to the weekend, my next to last here.  Until tomorrow, I remain,

Chomping at the bit to return home,

Mike