Menu Redo

This menu is from a recent redesign project. I'm posting it so you can get an idea of the type of authentic food served in Scottish restaurants. The Sizzling Scot serves food grown by local farmers, which makes it truly a unique experience. They have several locations in and around Edinburgh. 

Groundswell: a social media movement that cannot be ignored

In 2006 Forrester Research, a technology and media research company, was bombarded with social media concerns from worried clients. The surge in online participation and the potential effects were of the utmost importance. Forrester Research could not properly educate all of their clients about social media, so Groundswell: winning in a world transformed by social technologies was written to meet the needs of clients, management, marketing and anyone interested in learning more about this phenomenon.

Written in 2008, Groundswell is now common knowledge to most tech savvy readers. However, it is a helpful glossary of social media for those new to Web 2.0 or for those seeking a basic review. The message behind Groundswell is fairly simple. The Internet has changed everything. To survive, companies must use social media to build healthy, lasting relationships with consumers. Authors Charlene Li and Josh Bernoff argue that businesses must be included in the conversation or it will go on without them. They must contribute in a positive, proactive and meaningful way, because in today’s market, one bad incident can spread on the web and destroy the very foundation of a company.

Trying to understand this new social media phenomenon is made easier with this casual, informative resource, co-written on a wiki. The authors lead you by the hand through a litany of technologies used by consumers. Though the text moves quickly, it focuses on case studies and stories to reinforce their theories. If the technology is well known, the facts surrounding the groundswell effect on that technology are not. Companies and consumers are now discovering what this book has laid out. It’s an important read if you want a better grasp on the social media explosion.

Though it has a business book feel to it, Groundswell is a useful resource for the consumer. It explains the power consumers have in companies and the importance businesses are now placing on the customer. More importantly, it gives the consumer a fresh perspective on company marketing, on how to use their voice to improve products and change companies. The groundswell may be common knowledge to the business minded, but it is still pertinent knowledge for the savvy consumer.

Many claim that this book is outdated and too basic. That’s a fair argument to make two years down the technology-driven road. However, that’s excluding those readers who have not been introduced to the social media frenzy, or like most, haven’t had the time to learn everything and think about the consequences. Another complaint is the lack of specific instructions to master the groundswell. Yet, the reader is warned that no such manual exits, as everyone is just now stumbling into the explosion of Web 2.0. In fact, a blueprint for mastering social media is impossible, because no two businesses are alike. 

However, Groundswell does not focus enough on the consumer, as even those in the corporate world are consumers. The text is written for a business-minded audience, but a few paragraphs in each chapter could easily increase readership and usefulness. The statistics on those using the Internet and to what purpose were useful, but some explanation of the amount of people in the percentages would be helpful. Groundswell needed to address the small business owner more, as they do not have the resources to constantly monitor comments and post new material. Lastly, it would be nice if the book had provided a detailed list of which technologies are best for small and large companies, for those providing goods and for those providing services. 

The importance of capitalizing on the groundswell is evident in 2010. Businesses have been created just to protect brands from Internet abuse. They troll the Internet day and night for bad buzz, reducing negative feedback as much as possible and alerting the company of major problems. Companies are transforming their products and business practices from the chatter of online consumers.

The number of people reading and participating in the groundswell has increased dramatically since 2008. Twitter in 2008, was just a fledging new social media. Today Twitter has increased sales for businesses, started buzz for companies and connected consumers with friendly customer service. It’s no longer a cold and austere exchange of money for goods and services. It’s an engaging exchange of ideas that companies must participate in to survive. Companies exist because of consumers. Consumers are now uniting to improve products, lower prices, change business practices and above all, make the company work for them. No business can ignore it.

As a consumer, I debate over letting my voice be heard online. Will anyone read this? How much time and effort will I put into this review and never hear any feedback? If I toss out my opinion will anyone listen? Cyberspace is just that, space, air, no man's land where ideas are thrown out and fall without a single acknowledgement. But Groundswell changed my mind. Will a company listen? Yes they will, they'll listen because they have to listen, and what's more, they'll react. They can't ignore the consumer anymore because we are not one; we are many. Now do I want to be a part of this? Do I want to participate in changing the way companies create products, manage customer service and do business? Yes, I do. I'll be joining the groundswell so that my voice can be heard. 

Groundswell: winning in a world transformed by social technologies

Wireframing

Okay a wireframe has nothing to do with Scotland, but I'm sure many Scots have created one. This one was made in Powerpoint. I tried Apple OverSite first, but it would not let me save my project. I've never had a problem before with Apple downloads, even if it is a trial download. I found powerpoint to be much easier and I like the colors. This wireframe is of Chatham University's homepage www.chatham.edu.

Scottish Music II: Festivals

The Fringe 

Scotland is the place to be for music festivals. Take the Fringe in Edinburgh, it's one of the largest music festivals in the world and it takes up the better part of August. Millions flock to Edinburgh for the music and entertainment of thousands of performers. It's not everyday you can attend a rock concert then cross the street and hear celtic music. The city is alive with energy. Places you'd never see the inside of are opened day and night for performances. It's a music lovers dream. Want to know more? Visit http://www.edfringe.com/ for a continuously updated list of events and venues.

Shetland Folk Festival


A beautiful location on the isles of Shetland, the Shetland Folk Festival prides itself on celebrating the best in folk music. This festival is perfect for the traveler. Unlike the Fringe, this festival is less crowded, features only folk and has all the highland charms. Many of the festival attenders are locals so you'll get a better perspective of Scotland and its people. The price is reasonable and camping is widespread, but you can only get there by ferry or plane, so plan accordingly.

Festivals celebrate many types of music from Scotland and around the world

Celtic Connections Festival

Something to cheer any soul in the bleak midwinter months, the Celtic Connections festival is held every January in Glasgow. The Festival also offers workshops, talks and films. High profile artists and bands make this a sellout weekend. If you can't get in to every event, Glasgow has much to offer and Edinburgh is just a short tram ride away. Try the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum or the People's Palace. Visit local pubs and stores to enjoy the local dialect of Glaswegian.

The Streets of Edinburgh and Glasgow

There's no place in the world like a bustling Scottish city. Many of the areas were built in the Middle Ages and music is heard often within pubs, halls and parks. Any day of the week you'll find ample music choices, but one of the great attractions is the spontaneous street music. Music for music's sake. Hear anything from Scottish fiddling and Celtic flutes to bagpipes and uilleann pipes.

This lovely accordion player is one of hundreds of spontaneous performers in Edinburgh, Scotland. Contribute one pound for a picture with the player or players. They be very grateful!

How to Make Authentic Scottish Oatcakes

How to Make Authentic Scottish Oatcakes

Oats give this Scottish treat a nutty flavor and crunchy texture. Served traditionally at teatime, oatcakes have become a versatile part of every meal. For best taste, serve hot from the oven with jam or honey. 

 

Two years ago I fell in love with the authentic flavors of Scottish oatcakes in Kilbridie, Scotland. Since then I have added and subtracted ingredients, worked with thickness, texture, temperature and bake time to create an oatcake that is both true to its roots and pleasing to American tastes. I hope you enjoy creating your own bit of Scotland in this tasty, time-honored Scottish staple. 

Ingredients:
2 cups Old Fashion Oats or Rolled Oats
1 cup Rye Flour or Whole Wheat Flour
1-Tablespoon Baking Powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 lb. Softened Butter
1/2 cup 2% or Whole Milk

Active Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 15-18 minutes
Temperature: 425F
Yields: 16-20, depending on thickness

In a medium bowl sift flour, baking powder and salt. Add oats until dray ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Cut in softened butter, mixing ingredients until butter is spread evenly. The mixture should form crumbly dough. For this recipe, butte should not be melted into a liquid or too hard to mix without effort. Set butter out one hour to one-half hour before preparing oatcakes for best result.

Slowly pour milk in with the crumbly oatcake dough. Mix dough carefully so that oats retain their shape and texture. The oatcake dough should be slightly sticky. Use less milk if dough appear runny or more if mixture is difficult to work easily. Add extra flour or oats to bring mixture back to slightly sticky texture. Work dough into one round ball.

On a clean, dry surface sprinkle oats, then flour. Place dough in the center of the floured surface and gently push outward, making a circle. Add flour and oat to the top of the dough. For best results, flip dough several times, adding more flour and oats to dough. Pressed dough should become dry on the outside. Flip dough and dust surface with flour and oats as needed. Push dough into a circle from 1/4 to 1/2 inch think, depending on preference. Cut oatcakes with a round cookie cutter or make squares with a knife. These are meant to be rustic looking, so cut oatcakes to any size or shape that pleases you.

Lay cakes flat on a cookie tray. Place in a 425F oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through bake time. Oatcakes should be slightly brown. Cool on a tray or wire rack. Makes 16 thick or 20 thin oatcakes.

Store oatcakes in a dry, airtight container for up to two weeks. Eaten plain or with butter, oatcakes make a lovely addition to any meal. If serving alone or with tea, try cheese, jam, jelly, marmalade or honey. In the photograph, oatcakes are featured with Thursday Cottage Rhubarb Jam with Orange, homemade at Trewlands Farm in Tiptree, Essex. Twinings Earl Grey tea with cream, produced at The Strand, London, can be found at most large grocery stores.

ENJOY!

Scottish Music I: Fiddling

Scottish fiddling is unlike any other sound in the violin world. It has its roots in rebellion and strife and lingers on with poetic cadence. To listen to true Scottish fiddling is like stepping into a portal where love and hatred, sorrow and joy, jealousy, patriotism and camaraderie mingle in mournful notes.

Fiddling Roots


Bagpipes are what most people would associate with Scottish music, but there is a very rich musical tradition outside of pipes and drums. With the failed invasion by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745, England outlawed bagpipes, tartans and many other Scottish forms of expression, determining them as instruments of war. Only in the British Army could a Scot play the bagpipe or wear a kilt. Being very resourceful, the Scots started using the violin to mimic the sounds of the bagpipe.

Scottish Sounds


Scotland and Ireland share similar Celtic sounds in their music. However, after careful listening you may be able to decipher between the two. The region the music hails from also determines whether it has a bagpipe or hornpipe sound. Some regions are known for step dance rhythm, classical influence and Irish influence. Traditionally the music is broken down into different tunes including: fonn mall (slow airs), port mairsdidh (marches), port dubailte (jigs), seatadh cuirn (hornpipes), srath spe (strathspeys) and ruighle (reels). A strathspey is unique to Scotland and consists of long and short notes and features the Scotch snap. Below is the music book that I found in Scotland and have been studying. There is a high demand for Scottish fiddling books as its popularity is on the upswing. You can learn the notes and rhythms easily, but may need instruction to understand the unique sound and markings. Often the musician has a feel for Scottish fiddling so no marks are available for the music, but it is worth a try.

The Fiddle Music of the Scottish Highlands

If you're interested in listening to Scottish fiddling try out some of these famous fiddlers on YouTube: 

Aly Bain, Angus Grant, Iain MacFarlane, Archie MacAlister, Willie Hunter, Troy MacGillivray and possibly the best in Scottish fiddling Johnny Cunningham. 

If you'd like to know more about the history and traditions of Scottish fiddling this UK site is excellent: http://www.fiddlingaround.co.uk/scotland/

Scottish Elections

Since it's election day, here are some ways Scottish elections are similar and different from the United States.

1. One month before Election day, Parliament is dissolved. Candidates have just 30 days to campaign.
2. Every seat is up for election, even the Prime Minister, which is won by the party with the most votes.
3. Election occurs every five years.
4. First-past-the-post: a term used to mean, the-candidate-with-the-most-votes.
5. There are lots of parties running including: SNP (Scottish National Party), Plaid Cymru, Scottish Green, UK Independence Party, Christian People's Alliance, Jury Team, Pensioners, Animals Count, Jan Jananayagam, People Before Profit, Pirate and New Millennium Bean Party
6. They have voter fraud as well. Last election, 5,000 registrations were received at the last minute and could not be processed. In a small country, 5,000 could easily sway an election.
7. In the May election, the Conservative Party won the majority of seats, followed by the Labour Party and the LibDem Party.
8. Even though one party has the majority, it is still considered a hung parliament, because there are so many parties with minorities. Therefore the majority party, standing around 30% of the vote, must make alliances with other parties, so far the Conservative Party and the LibDem Party have been working together.
9. The campaign scandals: a Labour candidate stepped down from his campaign after leaks of text messages were published. His remarks, such as calling elderly voters 'coffin dodgers,' were enough to force him off the ballot. Another incident took place when Prime Minister Gordon Brown remarked about an annoying woman, while still wearing his microphone. The incident was widely published and had a detrimental effect on his campaign, though he earnestly sought forgiveness.
10. An 'expenses scandal' forced many not to seek re-election by a Parliamentary order. The expenditures were as large as vacation homes and as small as designer pillows.

So elections in the US or the UK have the same elements: scandal, voter fraud and angry constituents.

Scottish Haunts

In Scotland, and most of Europe, cemeteries battle with the issue of space. It's finite, but the number of people being buried is not. So many cemeteries are cramped or must engineer ingenious ways to display headstones. Other methods, like mass burial and burying over old parts of the cemetery are not uncommon, though Americans usually find the idea appalling. 

Greyfriars Kirk in Edinburgh uses church walls for headstone display. 

The older headstones are often spooky. Invoking the spirits of the dead and haunted to dance upon the dead's grave. They are not unlike older headstones in America as they also often have a religious or superstitious undertone.

A rather frightening but all to typical headstone from days gone by. This was taken at Greyfriars Kirk as well.

We visited Grayfriars Kirk in Edinburgh which is famous for a little Skye terrier named Bobby. He faithfully sat at his dead owners grave until his death years later. Bobby was then buried close to his owner's headstone and several monuments have been built in his honor.

Another tightly packed cemetery. 

Scottish Foods

Scottish food isn't all about the haggis. In fact, some would argue that Scotland has some of the best food in the world. Claire MacDonald, wife of the chief of Clan Donald, cook and food writer is passionate about Scottish cuisine. For the past 30 years she has worked to change the opinion that the United Kingdom has little to offer in the way of spectacular food. So if you like hearty, meat and potatoes type meals than Scotland will satisfy your cravings. Below is a picture of a meal I was served at a celebration in Scotland. I found that most meals in restaurants were heavy on the meat, potato and bread portion and light on vegetables and salads. If you are not a ravenous carnivore, there are many non-meat dishes to pick from as well.

Typical Proportions: 1/2 meat, 1/4 potatoes, 1/4 vegetables 

The Scots also celebrate their heritage and land through excellent fish recipes, soups, breads and best of all, dessert. Oats and whiskey are prevalent in Scottish cooking. However, any restaurant will have a fine selection of vegetarian and even vegan entrees.

Some foods to try at home or on your travels: Forfar Bridies: a pastry filled with delicious beef and buttered onions. Clapshot: mashed potato and turnip (swede) side dish, with plenty of butter, chives and nutmeg. Clootie Dumpling: a steamed pudding of white raisins (sultanas), currants, marmalade and spices, served with custard.

You may also want to try arbroath smokie, cock-a-leekie stew, stovies, cranachan and atholl brose. For the less adventurous, try vegetarian haggis, skirlie, Caledonian cream and Edinburgh fog.

Afternoon Tea Anyone?

I could discuss tea for years, but just one more post (for now). Is it high tea or afternoon tea? Apparently the British afternoon tea is similar to what Americans call high tea. In fact, the British rarely partake of high tea anymore. Just another way Americans change the words and meanings around, like napkin instead of serviette or stroller instead of pram.

So whether you are considering high tea in the US or afternoon tea in the UK, you'll be served nearly the same thing. First a selection of fine loose-leaf teas, brewed in individual pots will be steeped for five minutes or so, before pouring in lovely teacups. Cream poured before or after the tea? It doesn't matter anymore, but not so long ago it quickly revealed your social standing. Those of the lower class poured cream in first, so that the hot tea would not chip the glaze or paint on the cup. The upper class, wanting to separate themselves, made it fashionable to pour the cream in after the tea.

Afternoon Tea: Super Irish Breakfast loose-leaf tea & egg salad on toast. 

Often a three-tiered tray will appear with sandwiches, scones and pastries, which is consumed in that order. Sandwiches usually consist of egg, cucumber and chicken salad, but in Scotland it's not unheard of to have fish paste or smoked salmon.  Creamed scones plain or dressed with fruits and nuts are paired with jam and devonshire cream (clotted cream). Linzer cookies, cupcakes, shortbread, cakes, tarts and sweet breads are all popular in the final section of afternoon tea. The amount served varies from a light afternoon snack to a full meal. 

Some of my personal favorites: Millionaire's Shortbread, Butterscotch Tart and Dundee Cake (notice they're all desserts). 

Tea Rooms: near & far

I'm always up for something highly Scottish. Tea rooms in Scotland are everywhere, have great variety and reasonable prices. Here in the States they are not as plentiful, but are an elegant and memorable experience. This weekend I went with my friends to high tea. We had a great time and spent hours enjoying the food, teas and conversation. In Scotland the tea experience was more exotic in food and tea flavors, but the atmosphere was very cozy and, as our host explained, 'very routine for natives.' Here are the two tea rooms. 

                                         Tea Room in Scotland:                                             

Tea Room in Pittsburgh: 

The experience was also very different. Here tea rooms often require reservations and have a set menu. In Scotland, since tea rooms are an everyday occasion, you just pick a table and order from a tray of desserts freshly made.

If you've never been to a tea room, try it this Christmas season. Many tea rooms will be decorated and showcase holiday teas and pastries-a perfect way to get in the Christmas mood. 

Scotland or Pennsylvania?

Since my return from Scotland, I've noticed similarities in weather, scenery and speech. It's no wonder so many Scots made their home throughout the Appalachian Mountains and surrounding foothills. But I'll let you decide: Scotland or Pennsylvania? 

1.

 2.

 3.

 4.

 5.

 6.

 7.

 8.

 9.

 10.

 11.

 12.

 13.

 14.

Here are the answers: 1. Pennsylvania 2. Pennsylvania  3. Pennsylvania  4. Scotland 5. Pennsylvania 6. Pennsylvania 7. Scotland 8. Scotland  9. Scotland  10. Pennsylvania 11. Scotland 12. Pennsylvania 13. Pennsylvania 14. Pennsylvania

The Highlands are Calling

I've been dreaming about those lovely hills and glens again. They seem so far away and are, now that I'm back to good old US of A. But somethings will never leave us no matter how hard we try to let go. So until I can say hello highlands again, it's my intent to share what I love and miss about those misty covered mountains and all of Scotland. Fàilte (Welcome) to my blog.