Edinburgh 2012

Before returning home, Rodger finished his work trip through Europe with a stop in Edinburgh.  This is truly a must see city with beautiful sites and an amazing Royal history.

Memorial to Sir Water Scott who wrote Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, The Lady of the Lake, and many other classics.

There are no Olympic events in Edinburgh but they are showing their Olympic spirit!  The Edinburgh Castle is in the background.

Street just outside the castle.

View of Castle from West Princes Street Gardens

Gate leading into the castle.  Statues of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace stand guard.

The oldest structure in the Edinburgh Castle.  St. Margaret's Chapel was built by King David I in the 12th Century.

Entrance gate to the Holyroodhouse Palace.  When the British Royals visit Edinburgh, they stay in this Palace.

View of the City from the Salisbury Crags in Holyrood Park.

Holyroodhouse Palace from Salisbury Crags

Original Abby of the Holyroodhouse which was built at the beginning of the 13th century.  This adjoins the Palace, which can be seen on the left.

View of the Salisbury Crags.

Believe it or not, there is a statue of Abraham Lincoln in Edinburgh!

A lovely shot of the Edinburgh Castle with a rainbow.

Amsterdam

For work, Rodger had an opportunity to travel to Europe the week of June 17th.  Arriving on Sunday morning with a free day, Rodger spent the day in Amsterdam.  The highlights for the day included visiting the Anne Frank house, a canal cruise, and taking in the local culture.

One of the many canals

Replica of a ship from the 17th century

Typical Dutch home in Amsterdam.  Notice the leaning home.  This is due to a failing foundation which happens frequently since the homes are built are wooden pilings.

Looks like Venice - only in the Netherlands!

Valerie's Birthday

Valerie's Birthday was this weekend and we celebrated with family and friends.  Since all of the kids enjoy blowing out the candles on the cake, we decided to get a "Little Mermaid" cake for the event.  Valerie didn't seem to mind too much!

The Family's newest addition - Beau Binkowski

Valerie's Birthday Cake

The happy Birthday Girl