McMurdo's Adventures

OK so it's been a long time

2011-04-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

Hi all I know it's been a long time, but I'm still around. Catherine and I are planning a holiday to Franklin NC to visit her family. Things are going so good right now it's a bit scary. Anyway yeterday we went down to a fibre festival Catherine brought her spinning wheel and we ran into some friends, we also made new ones. I was asked several times if I was a piper, was recognised twice because I was wearing the kilt and recited Tam O'Shanter for a woman who asked if I was there to entain her. One thing I've got to remember when reciting Tam is to have a glass of water. Boy was my throat dry afterwards.

I wore my Royal Stewart my Grey Tweed with waistcoat the tie is one I picked up at the Scottish Tartan Museum in Franklin NC(Catherine's home town). The sporran is at least 60 years old and was given to me by my dad, it was his as a boy in Scotland. The hose I got at the Scottish Company in Toronto.

I hope to keep posting to this blog a bit more regularilly. All of the details on this and other things can be found at our forum:

www.thescotsforum.com

If you are from Scotland are interested in Scotland or anything Scottish, we'd love to see you there.

Under the Big Top

2010-07-19T15:34:00.000-07:00

Last week the Circus came to town, and Catherine and I went, it was a fun night and I got to throw a frizbee to one of the performing dogs. There were protesters out front however not even a handful. I counted 3.

I was hesitant to put anything up as I desperately needed a haircut but here are some photos.

Out for a Drive in the country

2010-06-19T14:52:00.000-07:00

We went out today to Port Hope to a little yarn shop where the proprietor was going to give Catherine lessons on her spinning wheel. She recommended that we talk to someone else about it so off to just outside Little Britain we drove. On the way up we past a creamery and decided to stop in on our way back to town. it was a good day for a drive and the storm that at times seemed like it would hit never did. All in all it was a good day.

I wore my Royal Stewart from Barb Tewksbury with the Stewart Buckler shirt I got at The Scottish Tartans Museum ,with my Freelander Sporran, it was nice to wear it again, it feels like an old friend at this point, and my Argyll Top hose from Dunadd Trading Company..

I heard nothing but compliments everywhere we went, one gent upon seeing me gave me the thumbs up from his car. I love days like this where there are no harsh words spoken about my attire, please don't misunderstand, most days there are only compliments but every once in a while you encounter someone who is ignorant enough to say something and that can ruin your entire day. Thankfully I've found that the longer I wear a kilt the more comfortable and confident I am in one, the less derogatory comments I hear.

This and more is now on our new forum:

The Scots Forum
Please come on over and check it out.

What to wear to your mom's birthday?

2010-06-13T06:24:00.000-07:00

One of her favourite tartans of course.

It was my mom's birthday last week so on the weekend we all gathered to wish her all the best, I decided to wear the Isle of Skye as it is a favourite of my mom's. I learned a long time ago that browns go very well with the earthy tones of the Isle of Skye. My Isle of Skye kilt is one of my oldest, I got this one about 3 or 4 years ago now when I started this kilted journey, it has remained a favourite of mine. It was purchased at The Scottish Company in Toronto, which was about 5 minutes from my old workplace and 10 minutes or so from my old place in Toronto. Now I've got to travel at least a half an hour or more to get to a tartan shop, that would be about the only thing I miss about living in Toronto.

Another thing some might notice about the outfits I've posted lately is the lack of flashes or garter ties, with this outfit I'm wearing Lochcarron hose the cuff is a double, I've never had a problem with these falling down in the other latest outfits I've been wearing the new hose from
The Dunadd Trading Company I can highly recommend these they are fast becoming a favourite of mine and Chris is great to work with.

I've been discussing this and other things at our new forum The Scots Forum Please feel free to join up there.

A Saturday at the Yarn Shop

2010-06-05T17:14:00.001-07:00

Today we went out to one of our favourite places The Magic Rolling Pin(www.magicrollingpin.com), for tea, as I have been suffering a headache I tried the spearmint tea which is supposed to help, it did help a bit but the headache has come back. After the tea room we went to Needles in the Hay (www.needlesinthehay.ca) a local knitting shop that Catherine just loves. The shop just recently opened up and the proprietor Bridget is simply a wonderful young woman who will help you with anything you might need. What should have been a quick visit turned into an hour visit as it invariably does when we walk into the yarn shop.

I tend to dress at least to a smart day wear level of formality when going for tea even though most of the other patrons were wearing shorts and t shirts this is what I wore:

The kilt is my Royal Stewart by Barb Tewksbury, with it I'm wearing my brown Argyll jacket I got at a local tartan shop on consignment, the tie and sporran are from the Scottish Tartan Museum, the belt I made myself and the hose were a Birthday present from my wife, they are from http://dunaddtradingcompany.co.uk/default.aspx

Catherine picked up yarn for a pair of socks and some other yarn that she will be doing something with.

These and other photos, stories and discussions can be found at The Scots Forum

I know it's been a while

2010-05-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

I'm still wearing kilts and have moved out of Toronto, I accepted a new job outside the city so we thought it would be best not to commute as we wanted to get out of our hell hole of an apartment. We love our new town and I even found Scottish Country Dancing, and the most amazing little tea room. I love my new job, and I've started walking to work.

One other thing we started up a new forum called The Scots Forum, you can find it here

http://thescotsforum.com

Oh here are a couple photos, these are a couple of outfits I wore to the tea room

Catherine and I also picked up a spinning wheel from Robert of RKilts in Stratford Ontario on the weekend, Catherine is very excited and is learning all she can about her wheel.

Wow, it's been a crazy ride lately

2009-12-21T18:37:00.000-08:00

We were out with friends tonight and were talking about blogs, it seems everyone has one. Well didn't I remember that even I have one, I figured I should post something. In my absence from the blog we have gone back down to that cabin in North Carolina stayed for a month and come back home again. I spent loads of time at the Scottish Tartans Museum the photos are myself and one of the moderators of XMarks, myself and sporran maker L. Adron Britt, and me at Biltmore Estates, if you are ever in the Asheville area a trip to Biltmore is worth it. We've done most all the Christmas shopping and generally tried to exist in our really totally insane apartment. We did get some photos while we were away, and it is the time of year now where I'm glad I've got the Inverness Cape. I have to say I miss the weather in North Carolina but understand we came up here at the right time, Catherine is not happy though as she was looking forward to a white Christmas and they are going to have that down there not so much up here.

Back from NC and some news

2009-11-07T13:49:00.000-08:00

My wife Catherine and I are back from a week in North Carolina in a secluded cabin with hardly any internet access. We went down so that I could meet some of her family that I had not met as yet. It was a great trip, but I've ended up with the flu. I did get some wonderful photos and again visited the Scottish Tartans Museum.

In other news due to a few reasons I'd rather not get into mostly butting heads with the new owner I have decided to resign as a moderator over at xmarksthescot.com.

Lunch out

2009-10-17T21:08:00.000-07:00

So today Catherine and I went out to lunch to Red Lobster, I can not eat shell fish as it gives me migraine headaches. That really cuts down the menu at a place like this. I ordered the pan seared Ocean Perch and enjoyed it, Catherine ordered the all you can eat shrimp. I wore my Isle of Skye kilt with a corduroy shirt and a pair of Hawick hose to match, with the Freelander sporran.

The leaves are changing

2009-10-10T15:37:00.000-07:00

So it's that time of year the leaves are changing, the air is getting crisp and cool, and it seemed today was a popular one for getting married. Catherine and I went to Edwards Gardens one of our favourite haunts. Catherine counted no less than 6 brides in the park today. It was a stunning day for it with all the fall colours, so beautiful that we ended up walking much further than we had planned, every time we rounded a corner or got to a tree we would see something even more amazing, so we just kept going.

The little details

2009-09-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

I was just over at XMarkstheScot, I'm a mod over there so spend a lot of time. Anyway one of the members brought up pocket squares. I always wear a white pocket square, I find it is a classic look and one of those little details that sets one outfit above another. It has been brought up already about wearing pocket squares that match part of your outfit, for me though I find a white hankie works great. One other thing about hankies, I always or almost always have 3 with me, one for me, one for my wife, and one for my pocket.

53rd Annual Pioneer Festival at Black Creek Pioneer Village

2009-09-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

So Saturday was the 53rd Annual Pioneer Festival at Black Creek Pioneer Village. Catherine and I went up in the spring so I won't put up many photos. There was a quilt auction, one quilt went for $4,550 all the proceeds going to charity. It was a great day, we came away from the day with two bottles of Apple Cider, Sauerkraut, and a few other odds and sods. The food was good and the prices were more than reasonable. It's funny how many comments I got about the kilt, even though this was more a German festival than anything else.

Been a while

2009-09-17T16:23:00.000-07:00

We've been busy in the past week or so kilt nights, friends from out of town, car breaking down etc. It's been a fun time. Anyway there was another SOKS kilt night in downtown Toronto, it was our pleasure to host Forrester Modern and his family. We also had the Saltire in attendance, for one last time, she was shipped off for parts unknown in the next morning. On top of all that we had a toast to departed Xmarksthescot member Craig(Retro Red)Saylors, he is missed, even by those of us who never had the good fortune to meet him. It was a good night with good friends, new friends, and departed friends. As we were out front of the pub another kilted gent walked past and we exchanged pleasantries, after that walking back to the car I bumped into a gent from Edinburgh, his wife from Paisley and friend from Glasgow. He said the following to his wife:
"See I told you I should wear my kilt tonight"

Then to me
"I was going to wear my kilt tonight"

I told him that's why I wear mine everyday, just in case I bump into someone.

Scottish Studies Foundation Boat Cruise

2009-09-07T04:11:00.000-07:00

Catherine and I went on the Scottish Studies Foundation Boat Cruise yesterday. This was my third year on the cruise and Catherine's first. It was a great time, and it was nice to see some old friends and meet new ones as well. Besides getting far too much sun, and Catherine having a headache for most of the day it was another great cruise around the Toronto islands . The Sunday of Labour Day long weekend is not just the cruise, but also the air show at the Canadian National Exhibition, being on the Empire Sandy gives you an interesting vantage point of the planes as they go by. It really was a great day, after the cruise we were invited by some friends to go to dinner with them, we all went to the Old Spaghetti Factory for a late lunch/early dinner.

BuskerFest 2009

2009-08-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

So today Catherine and I went down to BuskerFest in support of Epilepsy Toronto. It was a fun time, full of street performers and vendors, there were places for the kids to play, balloon animals and all sorts of other things to see. They close the streets around St. Lawrence Market for it so there are no cars to worry about just lots and lots of people. We even saw another guy in a kilt, he was a vendor selling imports from the UK. I had several comments about my kilt, but absolutely no negative comments, it was really great to have so much positive attention.

Goodbye Red

2009-08-27T14:16:00.000-07:00

Today is the Memorial Service for a friend, as he lived in Arizona I will be unable to attend. I wish I could be there. Today I wore my MacDonald of Sleat as Craig's nick name was Retro Red, with a black shirt, black hose and red ties. When I came home I changed into a Red T-Shirt and Red Hose, just for Red. Here's to you Red you're missed already.

A nice compliment

2009-08-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

Today I was out all day I wore the Royal Stewart by Barb Tewksbury, my Freelander sporran, Hawick Argyll top hose from Redshanks Scotland and my Stewart shirt from the Scottish Tartan Museum. I changed when I got home but had to go out again, as it was a hot day this evening I went out in the following outfit, my MacDonald of Sleat from Matt Newsome, Freelander sporran, Check top hose again from Hawick Hose co. and a white short sleeve shirt. I did not wear a belt this evening and find it's probably not needed in the summer months.

The other day I got a Private Message on XMarkstheScot from a new member basically saying it was my photos and blog that help build his interest in kilts. It was amazing to me that my blog was the main reason for someone else to start kilting. Anyway I asked him if I could share his message with my readers and he agreed. I was just so excited to see that someone felt that passionate about it. Anyway here are his comments:

It was your blog mainly, but also the 10 photos from casual to white tie layout, that kept building my interest in kilts. My father's family is Welsh, but my mother's family is mostly Scots with a little Irish. I always wanted a kilt, but never got one until they designed the Welsh family tartans. Once I had it, I wore it only to formal events, which wasn't nearly enough. I loved wearing it, and I hated to have such a wonderful garment that mostly sat around gathering dust. I added a Sport Kilt, which is great for the Alabama weather and for getting dirty, but it's nowhere near the same feeling as a nice heavy kilt. I have now added two more kilts, and I'm not ashamed now to say that I selected the tartans based 100% on fashion - I like wearing deep blues and greens, so I got a blue one and a green one, after agonizing for weeks over WHICH blue and WHICH green. I've worn the two new ones only once each, and I'm already looking at tartans (and tweeds) again!

I've noticed some things from everyone's pictures that I'm probably doing "wrong". By that I mean only "differently", really, because that's something else you have helped me see - there is no "wrong". I ordered the 5-yard kilts a little short because I apparently like the top of my kilts a little lower than most seem to. I also apparently like my hose a little higher than most, and I tend to leave more of the ends of the traditional garter ties exposed than most.

So... thanks for showing me the way!

The Lakeshore

2009-08-25T19:36:00.000-07:00

So last evening Catherine and I went down to the Toronto Lake Shore, Catherine had not been down there so we took the Saltire with us. For those that do not know what the Saltire is it is the mascot for lack of a better term, for the website XMarkstheScot.com. It was a great night we went to the Toronto Music Gardens and then right down to the water.

Elegant in a T-Shirt

2009-08-21T17:13:00.000-07:00

What passes as elegant apparently on a hot night in Toronto.

Today I got a very nice compliment about the blog. I've asked the poster if I can quote him, but at least I know someone out there likes what I'm doing. Anyway just before dinner tonight we had to go out to the market to pick up some things, a woman in the store said I quote "I like your kilt, it's very...Elegant." The funny thing is that I was wearing a PV kilt from USA Kilts a T-Shirt and running shoes with a pair of my cheapest kilt hose.

Kilt Night last night

2009-08-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

Mike and I in the parking lot
The CN Tower at night

Bill and I outside the Elephant and Castle

Last night we went to the Elephant and Castle in downtown to meet up with Bill from Virginia, we did hoist a wee drink to our recently recovered friend from the highlands, and then got down to talking kilts and other things. It was a good night and I felt I came away from it with a new friend. When we got home we saw this young man in the parking lot wearing of all things a kilt, I just had to get his photo and tell him about XMarks hopefully he'll stop by. We have had lots of visitors of late earlier on in the month Chuck from Vancouver was here and in a few weeks Jeff from Kentucky will be here.

Julie Julia

2009-08-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

The Outfit for tonight, the Carolina Kilt 4 Yard Box Pleated by Matt Newsome, the Sporran my Freelander, the hose Royal Cuffs from the Scottish Tartan Museum, made with the Carolina Tartan in mind, the shirt is a golf shirt I found at a Highland Games last year on sale, and running shoes. Yes you can wear runners/Trainers with a kilt there is nothing wrong with that people.

We went to see the movie Julie/Julia tonight and both enjoyed it, do not I repeat do not go if you are the least bit hungry. It was a good little movie, perhaps it won't win an Oscar but it was fun movie with enough laughs and tender bits to keep everyone happy, and really it is a perfect little date movie.

The whole point was that while we were there the Security Guard came up to me to say hello. The last time we were at the theater was to see the Harry Potter movie about a month ago, I'm sure the only reason he remembered me at all was that I was wearing a kilt. Earlier in the day 3 women asked me all types of questions as I was walking through the mall, I ended doing a skip change of step to show them what Scottish Country Dancing looks like.

All of this has made me wonder if I would have even half the conversations I end up having with people were I to give up the kilt, my feeling is that I would not. One thing about kilt wearing you never know the reaction you'll get, it may be positive, it may be negative but it is never boring.

Fergus 09

2009-08-11T07:03:00.000-07:00

Andrew and me

Diana Gabaldon, author of the Outlander series with me and the Saltire
Me out front of our clan tent

We went up to the Fergus Highland games this year to do the MacKinnon Clan tent, my wife (I still get butterflies when I say that.) is a MacKinnon and on the board of directors. This was my first time at a Clan Tent, I must say it is a different experience being in a clan tent. We decided to bake shortbread for the visitors to our tent, they were very well received.

We arrived Friday as we had weekend passes, however we were the only clan there at the time, and had to wait as the staff for the games were making last minute preparations. It was decided to go see Pete from Canadian Casual Kilts and Robert from RKilts. It was at this point that I scared Pete by coming into his booth when his back was turned, He turned faster than I've ever seen him move with a raised fist, when he realized who it was he dropped his hand and we both caught our breath.

Shortly after we made our way back over to the Avenue of the Clans or in this case the clan, on the way we stopped to watch some of the Heavy Events that were already underway.

Saturday we lined up for the march and there was some confusion as they decided to do the march in a reverse alphabetical order. As were standing in line we were hit with the smell of cigarette smoke, now for me this is nothing more than a minor annoyance, however Catherine suffers from asthma as such we were unable to do the clan march. I can not fathom how you are supposed to represent your clan while smoking, it is one thing to smoke outdoors, however smoking in a line when you know the smoke is drifting into others faces is something else entirely.

The rain was moving in and both Catherine and myself came down with migraine headaches, it was a good thing we left when we did as I had to stop half way home so that Catherine could take over driving, I could not do it any longer.

Some Big News

2009-07-29T05:51:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted, life has just got in the way lately. I have some big news for my readers. I was married on Saturday July 25th, to my best friend and love Catherine. We met online a couple of years ago then she came up here, we went down to North Carolina to meet her family, then it was back up here. We are both extremely happy, here are a few photos.

My Parent's 50th Wedding Anniversary

2009-06-20T20:31:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday June 13th was my Parent's 50th Wedding Anniversary. Catherine and I got loads of photos, here are some of them. It was a great day, my Dad really got us all his speech, that was sprung on us was very emotional there was not a dry eye in the house. They are a very happy couple, and have been a wonderful example for the entire family. My brother and I presented them with a Certificate from The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario The Honourable David C. Onley. A funny side story, my mom worked for David Onley's father. In my mother's honour I wore the Royal Stewart, she and my Aunts and Uncles were suitably impressed.

Dancing in the Park week 2

2009-06-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday was week two of dancing in the park, this week however it did not rain, so the dancing went on, it was great to get back to it, I've missed it so much. Thanks to Catherine for the photos.

First night of Dancing in the Park cancelled

2009-05-28T04:41:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was the first night of Dancing in the Park, it was to start at 7:00 however about 6:00 or 6:30 the clouds rolled in and with that the rain, the band could not set up under such conditions and it was decided to cancel the evening. The good news is that there are 5 weeks of Dancing in the Park and it is always a fun night even if it's rained out. Dancing in the Park takes place at Edwards Garden.

Kilted BBQing

2009-05-26T05:35:00.001-07:00

So tonight we went over to Mark and Joan's to see how Joan was doing after her fall the night the Seasick Sailors played at Grossman's Tavern. Joan will be going to see about it tomorrow. Anyway I was put to work, it seems Catherine told them that I make great burgers, so I was relegated to BBQ duty, now normally if I grill at home I don't wear one of the good kilts just in case but in a situation like this well you end up doing what you have to do. I was wearing the Carolina from Matt Newsome. Mark and Joan have kept two of the kittens the gray one is named Gunner as Marks clan is of the Gunn clan, and the Siamese is named Alba, we have Nessie from the same litter.

Allan Gardens Conservatory

2009-05-24T17:30:00.000-07:00

We spent the day at Allan Gardens Conservatory, it features six greenhouses comprising over 16,000 square feet of colourful seasonal plants which supplement the permanent plant collection. Of botanical importance since 1858 the conservatory boasts the "Palm House" (1910) modeled after similar structures in the United States and England. It really was a great day to be there as it has been warm, the gardens were filled with people. It really is easy to forget that you are in the middle of the city once you get inside. I wore my XMarkstheScot Tartan, since getting it back I've found myself wearing it quite a bit it really is a joy to wear, thanks again to Pete from Canadian Casual Kilts.

Directly across the park from the front doors of the palm house is a monument to Scotland's favourite son Robert Burns, this monument was dedicated in 1902. I just had to get a few photos

Seasick Sailors at Grossman's Tavern

2009-05-18T05:55:00.001-07:00

Friday night our friends Mark and Joan invited us down to Grossman's Tavern to watch Mark's band The Seasick Sailors, it was a fun night as always with them even though Joan had a wee fall and broke her ankle before going and really should have gone to hospital. Above is me trying to look serious, I could not hold it long. Below is a video of the Seasick Sailors singing Drinking.

Kilt Night at the RKilts Atelier

2009-05-15T07:16:00.000-07:00

Well last night was the SOKS Kilt Night at the RKilts Atelier, and general debauchery around Stratford. Catherine and I went up to pick up Chrisss at his hotel, then it was the drive to Stratford. When we got there Everyone was already there except Wompet, I hope you are OK as we did not see you all night. Anyway the night started in the home of RKilts the Atelier if you will. Food and drink was supplied, even if you were not in an RKilt and gratefully devoured by the masses. We then made our way to the Down the Street bar which was down the street, after that it was over to the Fosters Inn. I'm not sure if it is still going on, as we were driving Chris and he had to get up at 5:00Am we left from Fosters. It was a great night and good to see everyone again. it was a good night and it was good to meet Chris, I hope you have a safe trip back, It was a fun drive home both headlights burned out so we had to make the drive with high beams on, if you were on the 401 last night between Toronto and Kitchener about 11:00 or so sorry.

Tarja at the Opera House

2009-05-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday night Catherine and I went to the Tarja concert at The Opera House, it really was a great show. We got there around 7:30 or so to find the line long but not too long, when they let us in just after 8:00 we made our way to the front where we stayed for the night. There were two opening bands Urn and The Eternal. It was around 11:00 before Tarja hit the stage, both opening bands were great but it was good when Tarja finally hit the stage. Her and her band then went on to play a blistering two hour show. The kilt got lots of comments all positive and though I was one of the oldest in the crowd, I felt like I was accepted kilt and all.

Franklin North Carolina

2009-04-27T07:10:00.000-07:00

Catherine and I spent last week at her house in Franklin North Carolina. I thought I'd give a wee report of my time in North Carolina, including some pictures. I've been to a few states in my time on the motorcycle, I been through NC before and did some of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the past but nothing prepared me for the sheer beauty of the state, when you stop and look around. The scenery is breathtaking it really was a wonderful week. I met some truly wonderful people and am looking forward to my next visit.

The Scottish Tartan Museum Franklin NC

2009-04-24T03:19:00.000-07:00

Catherine and I spent last week in Franklin North Carolina and as such just had to go meet Matt at the Scottish Tartans Museum. We arrived a little before 10:00 am and Matt was only too glad to let us in a wee bit early. It really was wonderful meeting Matt he is as nice in person as he is on the forum. If you are ever in the area a visit is well worth it.

Matt it really was a pleasure meeting you and being able to spend so much time in the Museum and shop. Even though Franklin is not a bustling metropolis I would not hesitate to recommend the Scottish Tartan Museum to any and all it really is a treat, and the staff are not half bad either.

Scot of the year awards 2009

2009-04-12T10:39:00.001-07:00

A grand celebration of the talents and achievements of Scots at home and abroad was held at the 17th Annual Scot of the Year Award Presentation on Tuesday April 7, 2009 from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. at The St. Andrews Club 27th Floor, 150 King Street West Toronto, ON M5H 1J9

On Tuesday April 7, 2009 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Toronto's prestigious St. Andrews Club was the venue for this year's Tartan Day and our 17th Annual Scot of the Year Award Presentation.

The evening was a celebration of Scotland's business and cultural ties with Canada and was hosted by the Government of Scotland in conjunction with Scottish Development International and we are delighted that we have been invited to participate in this event which was also a fundraiser for the Scottish Studies Foundation.

Michael Russell, MSP, the Scottish Government's Minister for Culture, External Affairs and Constitution was there to represent the Government of Scotland and make the official address. Peter Lederer, Chairman of Visit Scotland was also on hand and was talk about Scotland's plans for "Homecoming 2009" and other matters.

Throughout the night, award winning Scottish Chef Tom Lewis was using great Scottish ingredients to make some fabulous dishes in live cooking demonstrations and in a once only performance in Canada, Scottish musician Roddy Hart was there to perform some of the works of Burns in special interpretations he's created for the year of Homecoming.

Also, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Glenfiddich, guests were able to sample some of the finest Scotch available and the Glenfiddich team was run 'Mini Mentor' session where guests can learn about and taste Glenfiddich 12, 15, and 18 Year Old malt whisky.

This year's Scot of the Year Award went to Flora MacDonald, the former cabinet minister who served in the Canadian federal government in the 1970s and 80s. Flora MacDonald may not be foreign minister any longer, but you wouldn't know it from her itinerary. At 82, she is still adding to a travelogue that includes at least 100 countries in her concern for the plight and progress of women in developing countries.

Named after the Scottish Jacobite heroine of Bonnie Prince Charlie fame, Flora MacDonald was born in North Sydney, NS, a sixth generation Canadian whose forebears came to Canada from the Scottish Highlands in the 1790s. She was educated in public schools and Business College in Nova Scotia. Later she became the first woman enrolled in the National Defense College’s year-long graduate course in international relations.

She was first elected to the Parliament of Canada in October 1972 and served as MP for Kingston and the Islands until November 1988, holding three cabinet posts: Secretary of State for External Affairs, the first woman in Canada to be named to the prestigious Foreign Affairs Minister portfolio; Minister of Employment and Immigration; and Minister of Communications and Culture.

Prior to her election, Flora was administrative assistant and tutor in the political studies department at Queen’s University, and was also employed at the national headquarters of the PC Party of Canada becoming acting national director.

Since leaving politics she has held numerous national and international posts and has served on the board or advisory councils of many organizations. She is an Officer of the Order of Canada, a Companion of the Order of Canada, and a member of the Order of Ontario. She has received the Jordanian El Kawkab Medal by King Hussein for significant contribution to public service; the Pearson Peace Medal; the Churchill Society’s award for Excellence in the Cause of Parliamentary Democracy; and was the first Canadian to receive the Padma Shri Award (India’s highest award to civilians) from the President of India for distinguished service in the field of public affairs. She holds honorary degrees from universities in Canada, the United States and United Kingdom.

Unlike previous Tartan Day Dinners there was no entrance fee so in lieu of this donations which went to support the Foundation in the funding of the Chair of Scottish Studies at the University of Guelph, the acquisition of significant materials for their library and bursaries for Canadian students studying in Scotland. At last year's event they were successful in raising close to $50,000, a truly wonderful accomplishment and tangible proof of the importance Scots-Canadians attach to their heritage.

Last Weekend

2009-04-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

Well I had hoped to make it to the Palm Springs weekend, however as that is on the other side of the continent we ended up at a friends house for a party on Saturday and on Sunday we went up to the Fergus Tartan Day Pub Crawl, it was an eventful weekend to say the least. Here are a few pictures. Yes I wore a Ghillie Shirt I figured for the party it was a fun look and as my shoes match my shirt I figured we were good.

10 of 10

2009-04-06T22:16:00.000-07:00

#10 White Tie

Notes: Here I've gone up from Black Tie to White Tie Highland attire, I am wearing my Montrose Doublet with jabot and cuffs. I am also still wearing my diced hose and Dress Sgian Dubh with it, however I've changed the ghillie brogues to buckle brogues, with my dress belt. I would feel perfectly fine wearing this to a Burns Supper or a Ball, anytime I'm attending a White tie event. In fact I prefer this level of formality to the Black tie and thus I end up wearing it for either.

Look 9 of 10

2009-04-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

#9 Black Tie

Notes: Here I am in my Prince Charlie jacket, I would say I am wearing it more traditionally than Jamie does, though I do not see that much to quibble about our differences, I would much rather celebrate our similarities than argue our differences. I am wearing my Sealskin sporran I am also wearing a dress sgian dubh and diced hose, as well as this I am still wearing the ghillie brogues and a self tie bow tie. I would wear this to a Scottish Country Dance ball, Burns Supper or any other Black Tie event I may be attending. The wonderful thing about owning a P.C. is that you never feel out of place at a black tie event. I'd also like to note that I can and have worn my buckle brogues with the prince Charlie outfit, I chose not too for the purpose of this thread.

Look 8 of 10 Semi Formal

2009-04-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

8 of 10 Semi Formal

Notes: Here I've changed the tie to red also notice I am wearing Charcoal hose to match with the jacket and waistcoat. This outfit would work most anywhere, unless it was a black or white tie event. I often wear something like this to the office, except for this outfit I'm wearing my Sealskin sporran, to me that brings this outfit up a notch, though it may not be strictly proper to wear it during the day, it to my mind depends on the occasion. Anytime I have worn this outfit, I've had nothing but compliments on it. I've decided to bring this outfit together with the colour red, notice how the red tie and flashes all go together with the Royal Stewart tartan. Again I'm wearing Ghillie Brogues and a Dress Sgain Dubh.

7 of 10

2009-04-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

#7 Dressy

Notes: To make sure it is a seamless transition notice the sporran, I chose to wear one that is appropriate from day wear to evening wear. Again this is a Ferguson Britt sporran, this one is a skunk sporran. I am also wearing a dress sgain dubh instead of a day wear all of this elevates the outfit, and make it versatile enough for both day wear and evening. I am also wearing Ghillie Brogues and traditional garter ties, these could be either flashes or ties but I prefer garter ties.

6 of 10

2009-04-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

#6 Smart Day Wear

Notes: This look or close to it is about the most versatile, to my mind. I have worn something close to this for weddings, funerals and everything in between. This outfit can go from day to night so long as the night event is not formal. It would be easy to dress this up a bit with another dressier sporran, or perhaps diced hose depending on the venue. However the jacket and waistcoat are very appropriate for any number of functions.

5 looks of 10 looks

2009-03-31T13:01:00.000-07:00

#5 Day Wear
Notes: I have worn this outfit to work, I would equate it to a sport coat and jeans. I have also worn something similar to the Highland Games when it's not too hot. I would not hesitate to wear something like this to a day time wedding as a guest. I've found that many people look upon an outfit such as this as being proper. I know some kilt wearers really like the Crail style cuffs, I have however become accustomed to having the Argyll style cuffs, this jacket is in Harris Tweed and I found it at a local Tartan shop for sale on consignment. I really like the look to me it hearkens back to an earlier time, not to say I am wearing this as a costume because I am not, it is simply that I am comfortable with this style of jacket. Notice that I have matched the colour of my tie with my hose, Green is also a secondary colour in the tartan, thus bringing it all together.

Look 4 of 10

2009-03-30T19:57:00.001-07:00

#4 Dressy Highland Games Wear

Notes: I have worn an outfit like this to the Highland Games I find an outfit like this is perfect for the March of the Clans, or if you just want to elevate your outfit a wee bit. I was wearing an outfit almost exactly like this at last years Fergus games a couple of Japanese tourist said I was the most Scottish looking person there. I am wearing a Braemar Jacket in the Burns Check, with a green tie as there is green as a secondary colour in the tartan, I am also wearing Hawick hose green with Argyll tops. I am wearing my Balmoral which has been shaped to my head by soaking it and letting it sit all night, it has also been kicked down the street a bit helping to work it in a we bit, one thing I've learned over my time on X-Marks the older the Balmoral the better. I am wearing Brown leathers with this outfit and again I made the belt. I am wearing a shirt with French cuffs the cufflinks I chose were my late Uncle's pair that are decorated with a thistle. The sporran is one of my Ferguson Britt sporrans this one in brown elk hide and muskrat fur.

Look 3 of 10

2009-03-29T15:48:00.001-07:00

#3 Casual Highland Games Wear

Notes: I would wear this outfit at a Highland Games as I'm wearing a golf shirt with the Stewart buckler, I would also wear it to a pub or for an afternoon get together with friends, the difference from this outfit and the last are the hose and shirt, again a very classic look that really looks like an outfit anyone else might wear, save the kilt of course. An outfit like this I think shows that the kilt is not a costume but a normal clothing option, I wear this outfit or something similar for quite a bit of the summer months up here. With this outfit flashes could be worn if you wanted to, to me it really just depends on my mood for the day.

Look 2 of 10

2009-03-27T08:45:00.001-07:00

#2 Sporty

Notes: I wore an outfit almost exactly like this to a Toronto FC game last year, I've also worn it out to the pub and would wear it shopping or just to do errands, a look like this with a rugby shirt works wonderfully for a myriad of events, a casual look like this simply works. I am wearing a Canadian Rugby Shirt, again with the Freelander Sporran the belt is one I made myself, I generally leave the Dress Belt for dressier outfits though many do wear the waist plate style belt and buckle combination with this type of outfit. I would say if a jacket is to be worn a denim, leather, or other casual style jacket would work very well. Again flashes are an option I tend to forgo for this type of outfit.

1 Kilt 10 looks-Look 1 of 10

2009-03-26T17:54:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago a new member to X Marks the Scot.com posted a question about the levels of formality in highland attire. The two of us each thought that the best way to illustrate this was to dig up various previously posted photos and offer them as guide to these various stages or levels of formality as we saw them.

We got to thinking about how often this question comes up, especially for the North Americans on our forum. The world we live in is far more casual than the one of our grandparents' day and children are not generally taught about, or familiar with, expected levels of dress as they grow up.

We thought it would be a useful project for each of us to take a single tartan kilt and come up with ten different outfits that ranged from the utmost casual to white tie formal. This would also be a chance to show how truly versatile the kilt is. To make this as helpful as possible, to the most people, I chose the red-based Royal Stewart tartan and Jamie chose the green-based Black Watch tartan for their kilts. These are universal tartans that many own and most are familiar with. Both kilts are traditionally made and of traditional wool tartan cloth.

Using what we have learned on XMTS over the last couple of years and combining it with our own personal sense of style we present this visual guide to help others better understand how to dress up or dress down a kilted outfit.

I have decided to post my photos from this little project here with my explaination of each, I will start withthe first outfit being casual and move up to White Tie.

#1 Very Casual

Notes: Here would be a typical hiking outfit for me in spring or fall, the hose can be rolled down and if it gets too hot I'm wearing a shirt under the sweater. I could just as easily wear a Rugby shirt or a T-Shirt with this outfit depending on the weather. I tend to forgo head wear unless necessary. Even though it is a simple hiking outfit, there is no reason to be sloppy, so I have ensured that the hose and sweater match, thus if I feel like going out after the hike to the local pub to watch a game I'll fit in as well as kilted guy ever does in a Canadian pub. For the most part recently with our climate I've been wearing an outfit much like this one, so much so that my twin brother who is very much used to seeing me in a kilt is now threatening to call me sweater guy. I am wearing a Freelander Sporran that seems to work well with the Hiking Boots, notice no flashes are really needed for hiking.

Kilt Night, Black Creek, etc

2009-03-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

Well I've not posted for a while but life has been getting in the way. Over the last little bit I've had a kilt night with the guys, gone to Black Creek Pioneer Village, and done a bunch of other things. Anyway I've got a few photos.

1915 Waltham Pocket Watch

2009-03-07T19:37:00.000-08:00

A while ago there was quite a bit of talk about Pocket Watches on XMarkstheScot. I decided to go onto ebay and see what I could find. I thought instead of one of those new chrome pocket watches, or the type that costs about $10.00 I would pick up the best one I could afford. Well I found a Waltham from 1915 that was running and won it. My only problem was that I did not have a watch chain for it, again I started looking for a vintage chain, I found one after some searching that was not quite the same vintage the chain is from the 1960 or 1970's. The Chain came in yesterday morning, and I finally got the entire thing together, I'm really happy with it, now it feels like the waistcoat is complete.

Last Night with The Seasick Sailors

2009-02-26T10:11:00.001-08:00

Last night I was invited to Mark and Joan's house, I met them last year when we were out for a kilt night and they really are wonderful people. Mark has started up a band called The Seasick Sailors and had planned to do a photo shoot with kilts, the only problem is that Mark was the only one with a kilt. He asked if I would come over with a few. Anyway I brought over 7 kilts a bunch of sporrans and a bag full of hose, two of the three guys didn't want to take off the kilts after the shoot. I got in for a few shots but here is one that I got with my camera. All but one kilt was mine, all the sporrans were from me, the photographer hastily wrapped a tartan blanket around himself. It was a really fun night.

Kilt Night with wee stumpy Nate

2009-02-21T15:07:00.001-08:00

Well last night we went out for a kilt night in Oakville. It was decided to go somewhere new as they are getting tired of us everywhere else :p. So we started the night at the King's Arms. Never having been there before, I have to say I found the waitresses to be very nice and the food to be good, I had the Noting Hill Curry Chicken, hot, and all was good with the world. David who was there with me had the same but in medium and seemed to enjoy it. When Dick and "Wee Stumpy Nate" showed up Dick got the same dish and also got the hot. The service was good, and a few of the patrons had to come up and ask us about the kilts, nothing new there.

After a time and because Nate had forgotten his ID at home, we decided to go to the Moonshine Cafe. Now the Moonshine holds a special place in the heart of all SOKS who have been around for a while, for this was the spot for our first kilt night. When we got there it was crowded and loud, we then decided to make our way back to the Queen's Head, would we drive the one kilometer? No not us hearty stock, although the temperature was a chilly -10 degrees celcius. Thankfully we found a roaring fire upon entering the Queen's Head in in a few minutes we could feel our knees again, one of the patrons again had to make a few comments and ask a few questions, but there are strength in numbers, so "wee Jimmy" as we were calling him did not stay long.

After a time in the Queens Head it was the long walk back to the Moonshine Cafe and our vehicles, I kept warm by regaling my comrades with the works of Robert Burns, much to the enjoyment of a couple in a nearby parking lot. All in all it was another great night with friends, and the Cohiba's direct from Cuba that David was handing out did not hurt either, thanks again David.

I think we should visit the Kings Arms again it was a nice wee place with a great atmosphere.

Laird's/Day Plaid my take on it

2009-02-12T18:38:00.000-08:00

There has been some talk of late about Laird's/Day Plaids on X-MarkstheScot, a look I find very interesting though I'd never tried it before. Now this is not a look that I would try out everyday though it was fun to try it out. For myself I found essentially wearing a blanket on your shoulder can be rather cumbersome, I also find it a tad theatrical, there are times when theatrical is fine though. I can see the utilitarian nature of a Lairds Plaid, I think I prefer wearing my Inverness Cape for the soggy days we've been having here. Anyway here is my take on a Laird's/Day Plaid.

A wee walk this afternoon

2009-02-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

I did have to go out this morning to get a few things figured out, so I thought since I was back home I'd get a few pictures. Most of our snow has melted with more expected later in the week, today the tempratures are up at 10 degrees celcius so it was very comfortable kilt wearing weather, not quite warm enough for a box pleat but it's getting there. However I'm sure it will not last. I took the opportunity to walk a bit out back and get these shots.

For those interested the kilt is my Isle of Skye from the Scottish Company, the hose are Hawick hose and that I also got at the Scottish Company, the sgain dubh and tie are also from there. The Sporran is my Muskrat Ferguson Britt from the Scottish Tartan Museum the garter ties are also from the Sottish Tartan Museum, the Argyll I purchased at the Wee Tartan Shop and the Crommach was a purchase I made at the Fergus Highland Games last summer.

At my Parents and other things

2009-02-07T14:11:00.001-08:00

Today I went out to my parents place it was nice to see them, as I was there I got a few photos of the lake. After that I stopped at the mall to pick up a few things and this family had to have a picture with me. It was a good day all in all. It was a bit cool and windy by the lake but I was OK in my Royal Naval Association Kilt by Barb Tewksbury. I just love way people treat me when I'm out in my kilt.

My day out

2009-02-05T10:17:00.000-08:00

So today I had to go out to do some shopping, and I decided to go get a few photos as I've not updated the blog recently. I figured I'd go over to Edwards Gardens and get a few shots. I stopped at my local Supermarket and ended up talking to a wee Scottish woman about kilts and all things Scottish, it was a good day so far. The samples lady even asked me how Catherine was doing, as we were in the supermarket once a few weeks ago when Catherine was up here I guess she left an impression.

The wee squirrel came right up to me and posed, then when he saw I didn't have any nuts for him he ran off.

Kilted in the Snow

2009-01-30T20:03:00.000-08:00

Today on X-Marks someone asked about pictures of kilts in the snow, as I was going up to Burnett's and Struth and the Scottish Company anyway, I went ahead and took a few photos. It was a good trip up to Burnett's, they are great up there, and well worth the drive. I was up last weekend with Catherine, the first thing they did ask me how she was doing, they really are great people.

Burns Night

2009-01-27T18:33:00.000-08:00

Our Burns Night was on Friday the 23rd, it was a great night with good friends. I'm so glad that everyone had a good time, my friend Catherine came up from NC for it, and to check out Toronto, as well we had some other guests that I'd never met in person. All in all it was a good night. The photo is of Catherine and myself at the Scottish Rite where we hold our Burns Night. Here are the videos.

The Address to the Haggis

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=us8BMVp142w

The toast to the SOKS
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klHC4gx2bxk

The Twa Lands
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJvZmRKHTSE

Me reciting Tam O'Shanter, with some history on the poem
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwbJECEosHk

The Immortal Memory
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJcb5CYnofk

The Response from the Lasses
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gtf561az8QM

The Response from the Lasses part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn1SvdRnQ4Q

Finally the Closing Remarks from Kevin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gd--9xiuQU

I know it sort of looks like the McMurdo's Dinner, however I did ask others for help however nobody else wanted to do the Address to a Haggis, and our Immortal Memory speaker came down with the flu so with an hours preparation we came up with ours.
I hope you enjoy the videos and photos.

Cold Alert

2009-01-15T08:43:00.001-08:00

Yesterday and today there has been a cold alert in Toronto, yesterday I did not do anything as I thought it was too cold. However today I rally needed to go out and get a few groceries. So I wore a turtle neck with my Graham of Mentieth kilt and winter hose from Hector Russell the sporran is my Freelander sporran. I was cold at the knees but that was about it. Outside I wore my Inverness Cape. I was debating wearing the Gordon Highlander, but I've worn it so often lately that I thought I'd wear the Graham instead.

Montrose with Royal Stewart

2009-01-11T14:31:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd post this here, I decided I'd try on the outfit I'm thinking about wearing for Burns Night, my Montrose Doublet with the new Royal Stewart from Barb, and my diced hose. Here is the photo

Royal Stewart Kilt

2009-01-07T15:37:00.000-08:00

So here is the story, a few months ago Bradley had told me to check out the Fraser Kirkbright Remnants page as there was a tartan I'd like in 16oz wool, they had 10 yards of it for sale double width. I went over and bought 5 yards and had Gordon send it to Barb, after getting a quote from Barb. So this is where the time starts to crawl, finally Barb sends me test pinnings, and we decide on the pleating. Now the time really starts to crawl, I swear some days it goes backward, anyway after all is said and done, Barb emails me last Friday I think and says it will be ready Monday, well talk about a long weekend. I decided just in case to go down on Tuesday, I had lots to do Monday. Monday night rolls around and I can not sleep, so I wake up at 3:00 am and think to myself this is entirely too early, I awake again at 4:00 am, get dressed and hit the road, making it down to Hamilton College in 5 hours.

Barbs work is yet again second to none, it really is worth the drive to come down and get a kilt from her as they are always a work of art. The fit is perfect as well, I can see this kilt becoming a favourite just from the fit alone, again Barb is truly an artist, thank you again Barb. The wool from Fraser Kirkbright is a softer hand than the XMarks tartan from them, it really has a different feel than any other wool kilt I've got, it is not as soft as the DC Daglesh wool which really is the Rolls Royce of wool, but it's not far off.

Not only did Barb have my kilt but she also had one for Hendry, so I suggested that I bring it up for him, too bad we aren't the same size or this would have been a very good trip indeed. It was great to see both Barb and Dave again, I only wish you two weren't 5 hours away.Upon leaving with my new kilt, I called Hendry with my ransom demands and the drop will be made later in the week so I'll let him tell you about his kilt after the deed is done. Perhaps I should start McMurdos' Kilt Shipping or some such thing.

Construction Kilt

2009-01-05T12:53:00.000-08:00

You may well ask what Kilt I'd wear when putting together a piece of furniture or something. Today I decided to put together a bookcase that has been lying around my place for awhile. So I wore my Indi Denim Union Kilt, it worked out perfectly. It's nice to finally be getting my place more together.

Now for the most part I'm a traditionalist, however it is nice to have a kilt like this in the wardrobe for days like today.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T07:26:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all who visit the blog, I wish you all the best in 2009. If you haven't made a comment, I invite you to say hi, or Happy New Year or whatever. Anyway Cheers to all.

Some Christmas Gifts

2008-12-30T13:46:00.000-08:00

Well I decided to try on a few of my Christmas gifts and get a photo the hose are from the Hawick Hose Company I've got a pair in Bottle Green with Blue and Red Checks. The tie is from Lochcarron and is called lambswool with blue, I really like the colour, and I think it goes well with the Isle of Skye tartan. I thought the Brown Argyll was a good match for the checks in the hose

Wind gusts: 76km/h Toronto

2008-12-28T12:49:00.000-08:00

Today in Toronto we have a wind warning with wind gusts of 76km/h, I therefore thought it was the perfect weather to go out in my Gordon Highlander. Although I love my 4 yard box pleated kilts from Matt, I don't think they would be a good choice for today, anyway I got some photos.

Christmas day

2008-12-26T06:57:00.000-08:00

I went to my parent's house yesterday for Christmas, it was a wonderful day spent with the family, I ended up with a Billy Connolly 3 CD Set from my nephew who is a bigger Connolly fan than I am, but I'm sure I'll give it a listen, a Jacobite/Ghillie shirt and a few other little things.

A snow storm today

2008-12-19T13:23:00.000-08:00

I thought as we are having quite the snow storm today, that I'd get a photo or two, not ideal kilting weather but the Gordon Highlander helps, at 22oz's not much gets through it. The details of the outfit are my Gordon Highlander kilt, hose from What Price Glory, the sporran is an L&M the sweater is a Canadian Army Issue and was a gift from a friend, the jacket is a kilt cut shooting jacket from Empire Canvas Works and the boots that are covered by snow are Caterpillar boots.

Christmas party

2008-12-13T15:47:00.001-08:00

So I'm going out to a friends Christmas party tonight and I'm thinking about wearing what I have in the photo here or something close to it, I may end up with more pictures tonight, if so I'll be sure to post them. The outfit is my Graham of Menteith kilt with a blue sweater that I got at the Fergus games this summer, my Freelander sporran, the hose are new I picked them up yesterday, I had to leave the appartment for a while so I went to my local tartan shop and they had these hose for sale at 50% off. The shoes are Kenneth Cole shoes that I got at the Source menswear.

A wee bit of snow

2008-12-08T13:20:00.000-08:00

I decided to go out today and play in the wee bit of snow we had, and get a few photos. It was nice it's been lightly snowing all day. I was getting so warm under all this wool and tweed that I had to remove the jacket and bonnet.

2008-12-06T17:51:00.000-08:00

Well I was going out to the December SCD monthly dance, it is not a ball, however it is usually a good night of fun, I got dressed and headed out. The Inverness Cape certainly came in handy tonight as it was snowing today, anyway I must admit I got my directions mixed up and I ended up at the wrong school. I turned around and came home, now that I know where the right school is I'll make it to the dance next month, but by the time I get there tonight it would be too late. Anyway here is the outfit I wore, I know some won't be fond of the diced hose but I think they are excellent.

SCD Christmas party tonight

2008-12-04T15:47:00.000-08:00

I'm just getting ready for my SCD Christmas Party, tonight is the last class before the holidays. I decided to wear the Isle of Skye as my classmates have not seen this one yet, and a blue shirt with the Ancient Scot Argyll Top hose from Hawick, proving I think that the shirt and hose do not need to match. ZOh and can you see anything else different about my appearance? Here are some photos

Thompson Camel Tartan Hiker Kilt

2008-12-02T19:12:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago Tartan Hiker put up a kilt for sale, the kilt happens to be a 4 yard box pleat with velcro fasteners in the Thompson Camel tartan, even though this tartan has been appropriated by Burburry I have always liked the way it looks. I decided that it would be the perfect kilt for air travel due to the velcro straps, it may even be good for car travel as it's a box pleat lightweight fabric. As well as all that I have been known to go for a hike and this kilt will work very well for summer hikes. I fear that it will not see the light of day for a while as we are into winter up here, however I was able to get a few pictures this morning when it came, this is straight out of the box so please excuse the wrinkles.

Maple Leaf Tartan Hose

2008-12-01T21:10:00.000-08:00

Well the other day my Maple Leaf Tartan hose came came in from Scotchmaster, a member of xmarksthescot I must say I am very pleased with them, I of course had to change into them as soon as they arrived which also meant a change of outfit, I was going to put on the Montrose for these photos but as I had Doctor's appointment I thought a less formal look would be more appropriate, I've already had many compliments on the outfit and the hose.

Royal Cuff Kilt Hose Toppers

2008-11-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was lucky enough to receive a package from The Scottish Tartan Museum inside were my Royal Cuff Kilt Hose. I have wanted a pair as soon as Matt made them available. I got in touch with Matt and asked him his recommendations as to colour and design. It was decided to go with the Basket Weave and for the hose to go with the Carolina Tartan kilt that Matt had just completed for me. To make a long story short, I must say I could not be happier with them they are no doubt a luxury item that will not match every tartan but I'm very happy with the way they look paired with the Carolina and I'm sure I'll wear them with other tartans as well. The cuffs were made with bright red and cream basket weave, with black and mustard ribbing, on a loden green sock. Worn with tartan red garters

Here are some photos, thanks again Matt.

Getting over a cold

2008-11-25T07:50:00.000-08:00

I've not posted anything in a while as I had a bad cold that kept me on the sofa most of last week. Today as I'm feeling better I thought I'd finally take some pics of the Clan Graham shirt I ordered from the Scottish Tartan Museum. I think this shirt matched with the Graham of Menteith kilt will be perfect for Highland Games in the summer. I also decided to order the Graham, and Stewart RR McIan Prints, as my Mom is a Stewart and My Dad's Clan, and consequently my Clan is the Graham Clan

Stratford Ont, and the grand opening of RKilts

2008-11-17T14:46:00.000-08:00

Here are my photos and report of the R-Kilts Grand Opening/Landing of the good ship Saltire. Linda and I went up to Brampton to collect David who had asked for a designated driver. Once we picked up Dave we made our way to that most Canadian of destinations Tim Horton's Coffee, it was here that I called Robert and was told it was snowing heavily in Stratford. I was also told that Hamish was attending via Skype and so shouted out my best to the Laird of Lochaber. After procuring the desired caffeine we were on the road to Stratford.

The roads proved more treacherous with each passing kilometer with both lightning and snow at the same time, a phenomenon that I was blissfully unaware of until now. There were as we continued our arduous journey a few cars off in the ditch on either side of the highway. Steeling our resolve for what lay ahead we pressed on.

Once we were safely in the lovely town of Stratford we found that the Skype conversations were still going strong, this time it was Robert's father joining us from the computer screen, and inside the shop was filled with kilted gentlemen from as far away as New York State. Both the conversation and wine flowed freely as we met both old and new friends. It really is amazing this fraternity of the kilted. After a while it was decided that we should make our way to Foster's Inn. There the merriment continued until a stool fell over on top of my ill chosen footwear, yes I was wearing Ghillie Brogues, as the pain subsided I was finally able to enjoy the rest of the evening.

We decided after the trip up that a trip back that evening was ill advised and so we booked rooms in the Foster's Inn. In the morning it was back to R-Kilts HQ to bid our gracious host adieu. Then it was a hearty breakfast at the York Street Kitchen and the drive home, the roads were mercifully much better than they had been the day before and the trip home was both enjoyable and uneventful.

Thank you Robert for a wonderful evening, both Linda and myself had a great time, again a heartfelt congratulations on your Grand Opening, I wish you continued success.

A Night at Sneaky Dee's

2008-11-12T11:14:00.000-08:00

Last night I went out with a couple of friends that I used to work with. We decided to meet at Sneaky Dee's a downtown southwest resturaunt/bar. I showed up early, to the strains of Old Johnny Cash. Once my two former co-workers showed up one of them noticed that Spenny from the TV show Kenny vs. Spenny was sitting at a table not to far away, when he was going out the door I was able to get a photo. His comment when he saw me was "Oh a Kilt" and he was only to happy to pose for us.

An Accessory for the kiltie who has almost everything

2008-11-10T14:36:00.000-08:00

While this accessory is not for everyone, it is something that I've wanted for a little while, thanks to ebay I was able to get it at a reasonable price. I've also got a wall plaque so fear not you will not see me at your local Wal-mart walking down the isles brandishing this and wearing a Great Kilt. Now I need a drill to mount it on the wall.

Halloween and Kilts

2008-11-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

Halloween has just passed, and on the forum that I frequent there has been much discussion regarding the validity of wearing a kilt for Halloween. For myself I see the kilt as another article of clothing, however it does have much more significant meaning than lets say a pair of jeans, so the question of wether or not to wear a kilt on halloween is a difficult one. Halloween night I got a phone call from my nephew asking if he could borrow a kilt, he came over and as he is much larger than I, we fashioned him a great kilt, I think this is one way a kilt can be worn for halloween.

Kilt pin for the Carolina

2008-10-28T16:28:00.000-07:00

When I was on the waiting list for my Carolina Tartan I thought I would need to find the perfect kilt pin for the tartan as it is so unique. I was lucky enough to find a silver gecko pin on ebay from Jewelery Mart it is a wonderful looking pin and picks up almost all the colours of the tartan.

Went for a short hike today

2008-10-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

I thought today I'd go for a short hike through Toronto Botanical Garden & Edwards Gardens, where the my SCD group dances in the summer. I thought it would be nice to get some photos of the local colour before it all hits the ground. Anyway I got there took a hiked a bit took a couple of photos, and thought oh I'll get a picture of myself now, it was at this point that I realized that the batteries in my camera had died. I finished the hike and came home. It started to rain and well Toronto in October can get a bit cool for a 4 yard box pleat when it's rainy and windy. Here are the photos I got.

First the outfit I wore, I also wore the Empire Canvas Works Shooting Jacket I got from Kevin, it worked perfectly, and I'm sure I'll wear it often as the weather cools down.

Back to SCD

2008-10-16T19:23:00.000-07:00

Tonight it was back to Scottish Country Dancing, last week the church it's held at had someting else going on, it was nice to get back to it I wore a black shirt, Argyll Hose top hose from Hawick hose company my Carolina 4 yard Box Pleat from Matt Newsome and my new L&M Sporran which worked out wonderfully on it's first night dancing, I also wore the Dress belt withthe Graham belt buckle. I did get a photo earlier in the day whan I was wearing the Freelander Sporran and Casual belt.

It was great to be back, next week I'm to bring the snacks for the break allong with some juice, I sure hope I remember.

Election day in Canada

2008-10-14T08:00:00.001-07:00

Today is election day in Canada, I went out to vote this morning and decided the perfect tartan to wear would be the Maple Leaf tartan. Funny thing was the guy behind the table who was an orrthodox jew and was wearing his yamulca says "You do know we're not in Scotland" to which I replied, that is why I'm wearing the Canadian tartan, I really thought they would be a bit more culturally aware behind the polling tables, ah well that is just the type of thing that happens wearing a kilt. Anyway the outfit for today was the Maple Leaf tartan kilt by Canadian Casual Kilts the Brown Harris Tweed Argyle, my tie is a tweed tie I found at Caringorm Scottish Imports, the sporran is from Thorfinn Sporrans withthe matching Maple Leaf flap, and the hose are Yellow/Gold Hawick Hose that I picked up at Cairngorm as well.

Rise in Popularity of the Kilt

2008-10-07T09:33:00.000-07:00

Recently there was a topic posted on xmarksthescot.com about the rise in the popularity of the kilt, I thought I'd share my response here as well, of course having read it over I've added to the last bit.

I've been thinking about this one for a bit now, good topic by the way. I'm not sure I can touch on the rise in popularity, I can really only speak for myself. I started wearing the kilt as an expression of my heritage, it had for me anyway absolutely nothing to do with comfort or rebellion. The first time I wore one in my adult years was at my twin brothers wedding, at the time I commented that I should have done this a long time ago.

After that I was given my Dad's old kilt and wore it to a heritage night at work, I'm certain my outfit back then would have been added to the kilt don't thread, be that as it may, I learned what was correct. At the same time I had encouragement at work to wear it again and so started wearing my kilt 2 or 3 times a week, I bought more kilts and now I have enough that I can and do wear one every day.

I think in a larger sense the internet and in particular xmarksthescot.com has done much for the rise in the popularity of the kilt worldwide, it showed me anyway that I was not alone in my desire to wear the kilt, and to embrace that part of my heritage.

As for cheap kilts helping I'm not completely sold on that idea, my reasons are that while there is no doubt they would be comfortable, they just do not look as good and do not last as long and therefore they may indeed be a hindrance. As I see it a traditional hand sewn kilt that looks great, that can be passed down to the next generation, a kilt that can look good with a t-shirt or with a doublet is the most economical way to go. Another thing that bothers me about the cheap knock off kilts is that this is my heritage being perverted, how do other groups feel when their symbols their national dress etc. are knocked off for the cheapest price and then marked up astronomically?

Oh Carolina

2008-10-01T16:51:00.001-07:00

I got home this afternoon to find one of those postal tags that tell you there is a package waiting for you. I had the idea that this was the Carolina Tartan from Matt Newsome that I had been waiting for, I was very glad that I was correct. Once I got home I tried it on and it fit wonderfully so then it was the careful removal of the basting stitches and outside to take a few photos. I am looking forward to my next package from the Scottish Tartan Museum as I ordered a pair of Royal Cuffs to go with this tartan, anyway for now I decided to pair it up with my Lovat Blue Argyll Jacket, Red tie, Blue shirt, Ferguson Britt Skunk Sporran, and Hawick Argyll Top Hose

Hunting McLeod at Clancy's

2008-09-28T08:25:00.001-07:00

Real life has been getting in the way the past few days so it was good that I was able to get out last night. It was last show in Canada for Hunting McLeod with Cory Walden. It was a good night with lots of us kilted fans and of course the kilted band. I'm glad I had the opportunity to see the show. Some of the audience was up here from Alabama. I did get some photos from the night.

Red hose not an issue

2008-09-22T12:28:00.000-07:00

Here is the outfit I wore to work today, I normally would wear Black hose and red garter ties or flashes, but thought today I'd switch it up a bit and went with red hose, surprisingly enough there were no comments whatever. One sort of expects comments when wearing red hose perhaps I've just been accepted for who I am. I finally got around around to getting my hair cut I needed it, funny thing today I did have the day off work to help my parents move but as they moved earlier thn I thought, I went into work anyway but forgot to withdraw my vacation request, it made for a confusing time this morning.

Dressy Semi-Trad and hats

2008-09-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

I realized that I did not have any dressy photos of my Semi-Traditional Black Stewart Kilt, from USAKilts so decided to rectify that today so here are couple shots of a dressy Semi-Trad. proof that these kilts can go just about anywhere and fit in. Also my friends I do believe that one of the other Moderators at x-marksthescot has turned me into, of all things, a hat person. This morning the perfect hat to go with my Inverness Cape arrived, yes my very own deerstalker so there are the photos of it also.

Cancelled plans and busy days

2008-09-15T12:49:00.000-07:00

I'm back from work, it was dead but started to get busy right before I left. This weekend was the Toronto Celtic Festival in the Beaches, however it was rained out and everyone left before work was up on Sat. so I was not able to make it. Anyway here is the outfit for today, I got such a possitive response to this outfit last time that I figured why not do it again, so I'm wearing my RNA tartan kilt hand sewn by Barb Tewksbury, my Ferguson Britt Skunk sporran, Hawick Saltire top hose, the shirt and shoes are from the source menswear and the jacket, waistcoat and tie are from Hector Russell, the jacket and waistcoat were from the Hector Russell line I believe, and the tie is from the House of Edgar. The second picture is for a friend of mine Chris from Inveraray Scotland who thinks the balmoral is a bit much.

One day two outfits

2008-09-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

Here is the outfit I wore to work today, I wanted to try the Brown Accessories with the Isle of Skye but with my Burns Check jacket I wanted to see if it would work, I really like the way it all it came together. I'm glad my week is over, tomorrow it's up to my Aunt's and hopefully after that I can have a couple days that aren't so busy. My Aunt is doing better now than she was last week and it will be good to see her.

After I came home I changed for a bit of a photo op for Nick at Scotweb.

of Balmoral ribbons and busy days

2008-09-07T16:58:00.000-07:00

I've not posted for a bit life seems to have got in the way last week, anyway I'm just back from work and thought I'd post a few pics. Someone on X-Marksthescot.com was asking about tying the ribbons on a Balmoral, I had not tried it as yet so I decided to give it a go and see how I liked it. In a way it's nice as the ribbons no longer bother my neck, but aesthetically I think I am more a fan of the ribbons free flowing, so this may just be an experiment.

As well those of you who are observant will notice that I am indeed wearing Ghillie Brogues I know these are frowned upon by some to some extent I frown upon them as well however I picked these up a while ago at an ex-rental sale and I hardly wear them, today I decided to switch things up a bit and try them with the outfit I wore to work, I promise it won't become a habit.

Scottish Studies Foundation Boat Cruise

2008-09-01T06:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the Scottish Studies Foundation Boat Cruise around the Toronto Islands on the Empire Sandy. Originally I was going to go with my Aunt unfortunately she twisted her knee and was therefore unable to attend, I just hope she recovers quickly. I was unable to give away the remaining ticket I had so I went down on my own. I saw a few familiar faces and met some new people as well, all in all it was a good day.

Montrose Doublet redux

2008-08-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

I decided to get some better shots of my Montrose Doublet as the others were taken inside at night, I also thought I'd wear the diced hose with a kilt that has considerably more Red than in the last photos. After I took these I bumped into an English gent in my appartment building who absolutely loved the ensemble and had to ask me all sorts of questions. He said the last time he was in Scotland was as an RAF officer during the war, it was a good little chat, he even called his wife out to see me.

The return of my Inverness Cape

2008-08-29T19:02:00.001-07:00

I was able to pick up my Inverness Cape Wednesday, I had a friend of my Aunt's switch the buttons for Black buttons as the horn was a bit too stark against the Black wool for my tastes, they also had to be put on the mans side, I think it looks great. Not wanting Matt to have all the fun with his Inverness Cape I present the following photos.

Tiring day at work

2008-08-25T14:32:00.000-07:00

It was a busy weekend at work, but today, today was worse, I was very busy, I have a few shots of the outfit I wore yesterday, today I was going to go up to my brothers house to finish painting but I'm too tired after work and besides it's Ingrid Bergman day on TCM's Summer under the stars and they will be playing one of my favourite movies Casablanca later on, so I think I'll stay in with some popcorn and watch it, I do have it on DVD but there is just something about one of your favourite movies being played on TV. Anyway here is the outfit I wore yesterday, the Royal Naval Kilt with blue shirt and hose and the Ferguson Britt Skunk Sporran.

Painting Bedrooms and other stuff

2008-08-21T17:29:00.000-07:00

Today I went up to my brothers house to paint the master bedroom, I was wearing pants for that, however changed into a kilt as soon as I got home, latex paint and wool do not mix if you ask me. Anyway I did not get photos of the outfit I wore today but I have photos from the other day as well as some that a friend sent me that he took at the Fergus Highland Games. I decided the other day to get some better shots of my 4 yard Box Pleat MacDonald of Sleat tartan Kilt by Matt Newsome as some other pictures I had of it were in poor light.

A busy weekend at work

2008-08-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

I'm home from what was a busy weekend at work, it's nice to be starting a weekend, Saturday I wore my Burns Check Braemar Jacket, I really think this one is going to become a favorite, I paired it up with my Royal Naval Association kilt, I like the way they go together, I also think this jacket will work with the Isle of Skye as well.

Today I wore my Dress MacDonald with my Gray Braemar ans waistcoat, paired up with a black shirt and red wool tie with Hawick hose.

Sorry about the second photo the sun was right in one eye.

The kiltmaker who made my Royal Naval Association kilt Barb Tewksbury was recently on TV for a wee interview, I think it's a wonderful little spot if you haven't seen it on X-MarkstheScot check it out. Barb is not just a kiltmaker I count her as a friend it was wonderful running into her and her husband David at the Ithica Highland Games.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJsndVwAG40&eurl=http://kiltmaker.blogspot.com/

A few accessories

2008-08-13T15:11:00.000-07:00

At Fergus on the weekend I was lucky enough to receive a new Dress Belt and Sporran Strap from Robert at RKilts from a contest that was going on Robert thank you again for your generosity. I also picked up a Harris Tweed Flap cap, an Arran Sweater(not pictured) that came in handy with the cold, and a Crommach I've always wanted one of these but normally the price seemed a bit much. Suffice to say I am very happy with the purchases even though the weather was not the best.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh inspired kilt pin

2008-08-12T18:20:00.000-07:00

When I made the belt and sporran strap for Hamish he wanted to send me something in thanks so I suggested a kilt pin, well the pin showed up today, Hamish had already told me it was a Charles Rennie Mackintosh design inspired silver kilt pin. I was very taken aback by this as I think the pin was far too nice a gift. Hamish thank you very much for the fine pin, it is a wonderful addition to my collection. When I saw it I knew it belonged on the Isle of Skye kilt.

Fergus Higland Games

2008-08-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

So here are some of my photos from Fergus 2008, after I dried off I was able to upload these

The Friday night band was 7 Nations they were excellent, John Allen Cameron's son Stewart joined them. Friday night was a great night and Seven Nations really were good. Saturday started out wonderfully, then the clouds rolled in, and all the events were canceled including the March of the Clans which I was looking forward to.

Apparently I was the most "Scottish Person" around at the games these two students from Japan just had to get a photo op with me and my new crommach. Shortly after I left as I was not looking forward to camping in a lake. I hope next year is a little drier.

Argyll Jacket advise

2008-08-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Today someone on X-Marks the Scot asked about wearing an Argyll jacket without a tie, I went outside and took this picture. It is just one way to wear the Argyll jacket without a tie. The other way I've worn an Argyll without a tie is just with an open collared shirt, but this was the first time I've tried it with a mock neck sweater, it is far too warm to wear this all day so I just tried it got the picture came inside and changed. I think it will work when it becomes cooler.

Kilting the World one man at a time

2008-08-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday a guy I work with asked me where he could get a cheap kilt to wear to the Burning Man Festival he is going this year so I directed him to Stillwater Kilts but I also told that I would bring one in for him if he wanted so the photos are of what I wore into work and me and the kilt that I gave to him. If it comes back that's fine, but if Mike decides to toss it on the burning man as a sacrifice to the kilt gods then who am I to argue.

My Outfit today is my Graham of Mantieth kilt with the Graham Clan Shirt, my Argyll Top Hose from the Hawick Hose co. my Ferguson Britt Skunk Sporran and my Glengarry Hats Balmoral with my X-Marks Badge. The funny thing is nobody noticed that I was wearing the Balmoral, and this was the first time I decided to wear it to work, it was a good, if busy day at work but it is always nice to help someone get into the kilt for whatever reason.

Hawick Hose top how to

2008-07-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

A while ago on one of the forums I frequent Hamish was asking about Hawick hose and how to get the Argyll tops to sit correctly. I said I would post pictures and have finally gotten around to it, sorry for the delay. Without further ado here is my method for getting the Argyll top hose to look just so. I certainly hope this helps.

To start I pull the hose up all the way, notice the white stitching between the two colours. At this point you can put your flashes on, or wait until you are done I usually wait until I am done them put the flashes/garter ties on.

At the white stitching is where I fold over the top of the hose, showing the Argyll top.

Next I pull up the Argyll portion to the top covering the solid colour, and there you have it.

The last shot shows the double layer of hose created at the top.