11 Lessons Learned AFTER Moving to Scotland from U.S.

[@Chris_Silcock]

Have really been enjoying your videos. As a Scottish expat who moved away when I was young, I recently returned with my wife and son to Scotland in June. Your content has been really comforting to myself and my Canadian wife (who has spent a lot of time over here over the years, but is still adjusting). Thanks for sharing your experiences! It would be amazing to do some sort of meetup for folks that have enjoyed your content in the future! edit: As a Falkirk native, super cool to see your backdrop in this video too :)

[@innesdunbar]

Extra points to Annie for her pronunciation of Aluminium!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Hahaha, thank you so much! 😁

[@StewartBuchanan]

I was on the west coast of the USA at a farmers market. Someone noticed my Scottish accent. In the end I had half a dozen people talking to me in a group, asking me questions, talking about the differences in culture. Everyone was so friendly, made for a great morning.

[@donnybrasco6321]

There’s only one problem with your videos - tho it is a BIG one: You don’t make enough of them! High point of my week/day when they come out ❤❤❤

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Hahahaha, thank you! We would love to make more of them, all we would need is a time machine! 🤣

[@janielow8719]

After watching quite a few U.S. videos the big difference between Scotland and America is the obsession with private property . The amount of times I've heard and see e.g. neighbours arguing and if they put one foot on a garden path ....out comes a gun or their screaming call the cops YOU'RE TRESSPASSING ON MY PROPERTY !! In Scotland no one will say that ,you can walk almost anywhere you are not going to be prosecuted. ❤

[@adriangoodrich4306]

I suspect the reason that you have found Brits (Scots, anyway) to be more friendly and outgoing than you expected, is because we respond like with like! You two are yourselves so friendly and genuine and "normal" (even if you are not convinced yourselves!), that Brits will respond in kind. As you say, having a dog (more Finn, please!) and young kiddies always helps too. Also have to say, after watching most of your videos now, that the way you look at each other - and especially the way Annie looks at Zach - tells me all I need to know about your feelings for each other! People you are engaging with will see this too. So uplifting to see.

[@georgesaint-c6c]

I don’t know of anyone who doesn’t have a drier in England. We only peg out on a sunny day (rare) or a lovely windy, breezy day (not so rare) but pegging out is so worthwhile, smells and feels delicious

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

You're too kind. Thank you for saying that! And yes, the dogs and kids definitely serve as great ice breakers when meeting new people. Also, we were just lucky to have found each other at a young age but to have still been able to grow together. We've seen just how easy it is for people to grow apart with time. It's been a wild ride, but I feel fortunate to have met Zach and to hang out with my best friend daily. Corny I know, but it's also true ;)

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

@@georgesaint-c6c We love putting our washing out when we can. It's so much better, but unfortunately, when we don't get the wind, it doesn't dry!

[@ScruffyTerrier]

Great vid as usual. I thought the same about the McDonalds coffee lawsuit until I watched the “Hot Coffee” documentary. It will change your mind and you’ll realize that McD did a great job convincing everyone that the lawsuit was frivolous when it was anything but. Definitely worth a watch!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Interesting! You are not the first to mention that, thanks for clarifying!

[@etinarcadiaego2259]

​@@SimpleScottishLiving - Lava drinks? Beware of foreign jurisdictions! In Bogle v. McDonald's Restaurants Ltd. (2002), a similar lawsuit in England & Wales failed when the court rejected the claim that McDonald's should/could have avoided injury by serving coffee at a lower temperature. Scots law is independent of E&W - but in this case - a UK wide statute applied. Accordingly : Court claim : Young children alleged that they had been scalded when hot drinks served in McDonald’s were knocked over and spilled. The children brought a claim under the Consumer Protection Act 1987 arguing (1) the coffee was too hot; (2) young employees could not be expected to fasten the coffee lids properly; & (3) the coffee cups should be designed with lids with spouts so that lids that are irremovable rather than lids that have to be removed for drinking. Held (High Court) : McDonald’s was not liable under the Consumer Protection Act 1987 because (1) McDonald’s had met the legitimate expectations of consumers as to safety; (2) The employees had been sufficiently trained by McDonald’s on dealing with hot drinks such that no extra risk was posed by their youth; (3) Persons generally know that if a hot drink is spilled, a serious scalding injury can result. Many prefer to consume a hot drink from an unlidded cup rather than through a spout in the lid. They accordingly know to avoid such spills, especially with young children. Consumers “expect precautions to be taken to guard against [the risk of scalding], but not to the point that they are denied the basic utility of being able to buy hot drinks to be consumed on their premises from a cup with the lid off.” [End]

[@mikefl1557]

My girlfriend's friend owns the 2 horses that the artist used as models for the Kelpies.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

That’s so interesting!!

[@mikefl1557]

I use to know the horses names but can't think of them at the moment, the owners name is Diane.

[@rosemarymee]

@@mikefl1557 “The Kelpies are called Baron and Duke and are named after real-life working Clydesdale horses. They were chosen to model for sculptor, Andy Scott, in his studio. Baron and Duke even came to Helix Park for the opening ceremony in November 2013. Baron is immortalised as the 'head up' horse of the Kelpies.”

[@MrsHuntontheTrails]

Boiling water is *not* always the same temperature. Without boring you with the science, the higher the altitude the lower the temperature at which the water boils. We stay with friends in Woodland Park, Colorado where water boils at 70 Celsius (as opposed to 100 Celsius at sea level). When we make tea at their house, we boil the kettle then microwave the water in the cup to get it to temperature. Tea made with anything other than 100 degree water just doesn’t taste right!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, that is a fair point and something we experienced when we would visit the Truckee/Tahoe area (6000ft +). I was mostly trying to compare places of at least similar altitude. 🤣

[@jstringfellow1961]

You two are so sweet and helpful to anyone trying to move to Scotland or just taking a longer vacation. You're there to help, and I know people will be very appreciative of all you have to offer. Finnigan is getting bigger, isn't he? He's such a pretty dog and so normal!! His moment in the spotlight was cute, for sure. The Kelpies behind you are an amazing feat of art and engineering, as is the Wheel in Falkirk. Great wonders for all ages of learning. I look forward to the next episode when you describe them. I loved going and stayed long enough to learn a few things; you have to. You can't just check it off the list and move on. Thank you for showing us.

[@alisontaylor6135]

Great video as ever and lovely to see The Kelpies in the background. xx

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

😊 thank you! We've both seen them a few times but they are spectacular every time!

[@etinarcadiaego2259]

@@SimpleScottishLiving - BBC Scotland News - Kelpies artist brings new sculpture to Minnesota - Pauline McLean Arts Correspondent - Published 9 November 2024 "The loon is the state bird of Minnesota, a black and white duck like creature with piercing red eyes. It’s also the mascot of Minnesota United, whose owner Bill McGuire commissioned a giant steel sculpture of a loon, to sit outside the club’s new stadium in St Paul. And if it looks familiar to Scottish audiences, that’s because it was designed by the same artist who created the Kelpies. At 11 metres (36 feet) high, with a wingspan of 30 metres (98 feet), named "The Calling" the sculpture is smaller than the Kelpies, but still made an impact on the community of St Paul. The Midway neighbourhood in which the Allianz Field sits has had a troubled few years. It was at the heart of protests over the murder of George Floyd, an unarmed African American man during an arrest by Minneapolis police. "It’s an area which falls between so many different sections of Minneapolis St Paul,” said Dan Wade who lives in the neighbourhood, and is both a fan of the football club and its growing collection of sculptural commissions." See full article here : www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c93q977p7yqo

[@etinarcadiaego2259]

BBC Scotland News - Kelpies artist brings new sculpture to Minnesota - Pauline McLean Arts Correspondent - Published 9 November 2024 "The loon is the state bird of Minnesota, a black and white duck like creature with piercing red eyes. It’s also the mascot of Minnesota United, whose owner Bill McGuire commissioned a giant steel sculpture of a loon, to sit outside the club’s new stadium in St Paul. And if it looks familiar to Scottish audiences, that’s because it was designed by the same artist who created the Kelpies. At 11 metres (36 feet) high, with a wingspan of 30 metres (98 feet), named "The Calling" the sculpture is smaller than the Kelpies, but still made an impact on the community of St Paul. The Midway neighbourhood in which the Allianz Field sits has had a troubled few years. It was at the heart of protests over the murder of George Floyd, an unarmed African American man during an arrest by Minneapolis police. "It’s an area which falls between so many different sections of Minneapolis St Paul,” said Dan Wade who lives in the neighbourhood, and is both a fan of the football club and its growing collection of sculptural commissions." See full article here : www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c93q977p7yqo

[@jinns9503]

That "silly lawsuit" was actually an elderly woman whose boiling hot coffee spilled on her lap leaving her with 3rd degree burns in her groin and seat. She had to be treated in a hospital. The media has really downplayed what happened for decades now; we studied it in a college class of mine, and it was actually awful. That poor woman has been trashed by people ever since because they were told it was frivolous when it was well warranted and resulted in much-needed safety measures being put in place.

[@etinarcadiaego2259]

Beware of foreign jurisdictions! Scots law is largely independent of England & Wales - but in the following case - a UK wide statute applied. In Bogle v. McDonald's Restaurants Ltd. (2002), a copycat lawsuit in the High Court of England & Wales failed when the court rejected the claim that McDonald's should/could have avoided injury by serving coffee at a lower temperature. The claim against McDonald's was based on statute (rather than tort or contract) under the Consumer Protection Act 1987. McDonald’s was found not liable because (1) McDonald’s had met the legitimate expectations of consumers as to safety; (2) The employees had been sufficiently trained by McDonald’s on dealing with hot drinks such that no extra risk was posed by their youth; (3) Persons generally know that if a hot drink is spilled, a serious scalding injury can result. So justice was duly served (with the lid off of course)...Ho-hum.

[@sandersson2813]

It was a frivolous claim. To claim there is some sort of negligence in not stating that a hot beverage is hot would be nanny state to an absurd degree. There's a reason we don't wash our hands in boiling water or brush our teeth with battery acid. There's an implied personal responsibility and all it does it prove how litigious and stupid the American legal system is.

[@gillianlaing1073]

I live in rural perthshire, I like how my repeat prescription is automatically sent every month to chemist shop,for me to pick up free!!😊 Also the government pays tuition fees for university 😊

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, that is wonderful. We absolutely love Perthshire as well...as you may have seen from our other videos!

[@kellidominguez7167]

Hello from Sacramento CA. Just found your KZbin channel and have been watching all your past videos. Love all your content and love seeing beautiful Scotland.

[@TSM-908]

Another beautiful benefit in that in Scotland the price for something in a shop is what you pay - I was stunned in USA the prices had no sales tax added on to the item price labels. The uk VAT is fixed at 20% and is already added to the item price tag. Some items are not VAT taxed, like children’s clothing and shoes - my wife is smallish so she sometimes checks the children’s clothing and shoe sections to see if it fits her - it the Aberdonian thriftiness in her genes.

[@sarahann530]

Every county in the US sets it's sales tax rate so people living in that county know what the added % is . Retailers cannot price items for individual counties.

[@TSM-908]

@@sarahann530 true but I bought goods in Michigan and the price did not include the state sales tax. Same in North Carolina and same in Texas. All these states have state sales taxes, if you’re also say they have local county taxes on top of state sales taxes then they are still not shown on the price labels. This was my experience my last visit was around 2012. I retired in 2016 in the UK - I have lived in England since 1989 as this was where I could get the job and salary levels I required.

[@sarahann530]

@TSM-908 There can be State taxes , county taxes and city taxes added to items you purchase . That is why the taxes are added at the checkout . Some items do not have sales tax added just like VAT is not on everything. There are some US states with no Sales tax . This information is all readily available you should read up on it .

[@TSM-908]

@@sarahann530 thanks, you’re confirming my experience. It’s horrible not knowing what the actual till price is going to be. Plus the larger items means that you’re likely going to be doing mental arithmetic for the taxes. UK it’s countrywide so the price tag is what you pay. Also in uk we have some large supermarkets have have customers handheld scanners which you use to scan your items and then drop them in your trolley. The handheld keeps a display of your specific spending as you move around the shop. At the till the cashier just scans the total and you just walk out of store. The device already has your payment card details so fast check out. Also we have many self service scan tills where customers just do their own item barcode scanning and drop the purchases into their bags. Then you can pay contactless with your bank card and walk out. They do check a % of people to ensure that you’re not stealing - normally people who are paying with cash as card details are not getting scanned. Same with utilities water & electric. These are metered and use SIM cards to telephone your monthly usage to the provider. My son in Texas tells me that the state is self sufficient and not connected with other states to help with electricity usage, uk has a single supplier grid for the whole country and we balance power out across all the UK. Many electric providers sell power to customers but they all use the country wide network to power the homes. Texas doesn’t do this yet.

[@sarahann530]

@TSM-908 If you live in the area you know what the till price is . If you are a visitor you can ask what it is . This is basic stuff any functioning person should be able to handle . The UK is one Country that has decided to apply a VAT tax across the board , you don't seem to comprehend the US is made up of States that set their own laws including how they finance State govt . Some have sales tax some don't, some have income tax some don't, Are you saying your son does not know how to calculate the sales tax on items he purchases ? Texas decided against joining the National grid , this is a decision the electorate decided . Individual power companies decide how to collect payment for the service they provide . Texas is backwards in many things clearly this is one of them . However you can walk around with a gun in Texas so it is better than the Uk in that regard .

[@barrysteven5964]

I feel one of the reasons the 'tax is theft' idea is not such an issue in the UK as in the USA is that unless you're self-employed you are not involved with actually paying your taxes. All my working life when I got my monthly pay slip I didn't really look to hard at the gross income. I just looked at the net (amount after the tax and National Insurance has been taken out) because what's the point? Is the fact that people in the UK are less litigious not just down to attitudes that accidents just happen and you have to deal with it but also that we don't have to pay medical bills. Maybe if you injure yourself and incure bills in the USA you sue to get money back. Or do the insurance companies sue or expect you to sue? I've no idea.

[@tenaheffernan1368]

US citizens living abroad also have to file US income tax each year too.

[@Francis-xl2gu]

@@tenaheffernan1368 WHY is that ?

[@tenaheffernan1368]

It is the law. “If you are a U.S. citizen or resident living or traveling outside the United States, you generally are required to file income tax returns, estate tax returns, and gift tax returns and pay estimated tax in the same way as those residing in the United States.” www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-citizens-and-residents-abroad-filing-requirements

[@tonycasey3183]

I am 60 years old and have only ever worked for UK companies and organisations. I have only experienced PAYE for tax. From about 1988 I have emailed my local tax office every year end to ask them to see if I owe them any money - I don't ever want to be hit with an unexpected tax bill. Only one have I owed HMRC any money and that was only about fifty quid. However, about half a dozen times (due to incorrect tax codes) HMRC have actually owed ME money. They were fine with that and paid up immediately.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, I have also only had similar experiences with PAYE and HMRC. It is a stark contrast to the US where you might end up with a $5,000+ tax bill at the end of the year, or be owed thousands....which is always a nice surprise!

[@ABPhotography1]

Hielan Laird Zack has captured some awesome drone captures showcasing Scotland. Great stuff.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank you! To be fair, when there is beauty all around it makes my job a lot easier! 😁

[@RTPeat]

The pharmacist thing is actually pretty new, but it’s really useful. I went down with Shingles earlier in the year and the pharmacist was able to prescribe the anti-virals, and for any coughs and colds it’s much easier to get in to see him compared to our GP. Your waste and recycling in East Lothian is certainly more complicated than ours in Fife. We have four bins - landfill is every fortnight, and the other three every four weeks.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, I don't remember the pharmacist thing growing up, so that would make sense it was somewhat new. Yes, I think East Lothian is a unique case. We are definitely happy to do our part, it would be interesting to see how other areas do it and how efficient each are at recycling in the end! Thanks for leaving a comment!

[@univitedguest]

I own a Miele heat-pump dryer: it takes no longer than 90 minutes to dry a full load. The nature of the technology means that clothes might appear slightly damp on removing them, but within a couple of minutes the clothes will be fully dry. If you have a heat-pump combined washer/dryer though it will not be anywhere as near efficient as a stand-alone heat-pump dryer.

[@kimberlyticknor6018]

Loved the videos! My son just finished a master's program at the U of Edinburgh and is hoping to return to St Andrew's. His biggest complaint was how long it took to dry his laundry. Other than that, he loved every minute of his year there and can't wait to return. Regarding uni fees, his one year program was still cheaper than many 2 year programs in the states. (Crossing fingers and toes for a research fellowship ) Hoping to return soon - we all loved it!

[@christinawelton9689]

Many many years ago I treated my husband to 20 days touring by rental car England-Wales and Scotland. The following year we decided it would be only Scotland from than on. We went every year for 9 years when he unexpectedly passed away. In 2023 my sister wanted to go to Ireland and I told her I would book us on a 14 guided tour but it had to be split between Ireland and Scotland. Told her she would fall in love with Scotland and she did-we are of Irish descent-my late husband was of Scottish descent. Now I’m 76 don’t think I’ll be going back but I so envy you moving there.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank you for sharing your lovely story, Scotland holds a special place in many people's hearts!

[@jeanzaharias3423]

I love your videos. I lived and taught in San Jose, Ca for many years . I have only been to Scotland once and enjoyed the Highlands with all the lovely pasture and variations of sheep. I also was delighted with an evening spent in a pup singing with a group of men returning home after a rehearsal. You are blessed and you are sharing your blessing. Thank you! Love Finnigan!

[@stewrmo]

I hope, for Finn's sake, it was a "pub" you were in and not a "pup"! 😁 One love from Scotland. 💙 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@jeanzaharias3423]

@@stewrmo It was a pub. lazy spellchecker🌺

[@davidhines7592]

hot drinks: remember its only the last 40 years here that central heating has been commonplace. a lot of houses i lived in were almost same temp as outside, except the kitchen when cooking, or the main living room which usually had the only heating - mainly gas or coal fire. hot drinks were essential to staying warm.

[@janescott4574]

Every time I’ve been to the states, no matter where, I can never understand why hot drinks are lukewarm I like my coffee at the same temperature as molten metal!!!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

haha you're in good company with most people in the comments! I think I'm just a bit of a whimp!

[@shammylevva]

Heat pump tumble driers are very new and very few people have them - most will have older tumble driers with the exhaust pipe you mentioned or a condensing drier where the air is circulated back in over a condenser that collects water extracted from the damp clothes. Then once the load is done (typically 1.5-2 hrs) depends how much water is extracted you open the drawer and remove the tank to pour out the collected water. Typically the more you spin the clothes the less water remains and so the less time it takes to dry. However modern practice is to wash clothes at low temperatures and not spin them much. I'm old fashioned I wash mine at regular temperature and max 1400 spin, so the drying is typically an hour to 90 mins.

[@Francis-xl2gu]

Also if you get a dehumidifier and set it to laundry mode in a small room, clothes on a dryer will be almost dry after a couple of hours

[@hunter-o7y]

We find the condenser dryer works best for us. Smart Meter says an extra £1 pound per 2 loads. 40-45 min. per load.

[@yips_way]

@@Francis-xl2gu I use a humidifier as you mentioned. I was sick of driers breaking after only a few uses due to the infrequent times I used them - a few hundred pounds each time got ridiculous. My humidifier is still going strong after 10+ years even though it's on every day as I like to keep certain rooms at a set humidity. When I have laundry on a clothes horse it just means the humidifier is on longer. 👍

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

I think we might need to just plan to do an extra spin cycle each time. We'll give that a try and see if it makes a difference! Thanks for sharing.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Will give this a try! Thank you!

[@caroline9777]

Another enjoyable video 😊

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank you so much and for taking the time to leave a comment.

[@erniefouts1370]

Your channel is my favorite! I live in the northern US. When we spent a few years in the deep South, it was disconcerting to have a subtle reaction every time I said something. I can relate to Annie's experience.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Glad we’re not the only ones! How long did it take you to not notice? Thanks so much for joining us ❤️

[@erniefouts1370]

We were in the South for 4 years. Very friendly people, but as an introvert, I never got used to the slight look of surprise when I spoke in front of strangers 😊.

[@perturbatio]

East Lothian does seem to have a special way of doing things for sure. But on the plastic separation thing, the problem is that not all plastics are easily recycled and if one type of plastic contaminates the plastic recycling process the whole batch is disposed of making plastic recycling a painful process. The other problem is that plastic is not 100% recyclable i.e. in order to make a new batch of that plastic type, you have to add in new plastic to the mix. (unlike with glass or metal). Plastic is both a good thing (for medicine and food preservation which helps reduce CO2 from waste) and a scourge on the world. As for the lid being attached, this is relatively new, but it's to stop people throwing the lid away separately and having plastic degrade in the environment, they'll detach the lid in the recycling centre.

[@johnlaws3904]

Pharmacists used to label their shops as dispensing chemists, Our North Berwick Pharmacy (Smiths) gives personal service not available at 'Boots' As to dogs, they make you friends. In North Berwick, we have more dogs than people. Our first dog, 'Frisby, ' a border cross, lived to be 20 years old. He loved the sea. had he lived here now he'd be halfway to Fife. Our first dog when we moved here was a Staffie, 'Rusty,' who lived to 12. Our latest Staffie, Captain, died at 15 years old last May. He hated the wet. He walked around puddles but still went down the beach and out on the rocks, avoiding getting wet.

[@Francis-xl2gu]

@@johnlaws3904 love North Berwick, would visit every year when staying in Edinburgh

[@margaretstein7555]

Another great video you just brighten up a Sunday really look forward to your videos Finnegan looks a big boy now have a great week love from bonnie Scotland ❤

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank you! Yes, it’s shocking how much he’s grown. He’s starting to get a little more chunky, which makes him extra snuggly. Thanks for tuning in again ❤️

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thanks so much! Yes, i think Finnegan had a bit of growth burst recently, he almost needs a new harness!

[@tonycasey3183]

In my experience, US companies don't use boiling (100° C) water for drinks. It is my contention that this is why I have never had a decent cup of tea in the USA, because the water needs to be at boiling point when you add it to the tea leaves - this is also the same for France and Italy in my experience, though touristy parts of Spain are used to British tea drinkers these days. I feel that this is also why you rarely get a decent cup of coffee in the UK because coffee brews better at just under 94° C and we brits make it with still bubbling water straight out of the kettle.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

This makes so much sense. Thank you for sharing! ❤️Happy Sunday!

[@catherinebent5101]

Exactly.

[@alistairthow1384]

Put some milk in with coffee before pouring boiling on and it stops it being bitter.

[@tonycasey3183]

@@alistairthow1384 Two things: You can only do that with instant coffee. Cold milk on to instant coffee granules results in floating coffee monsters on the surface of your drink. It's best to just let the water cool down a bit before pouring it on to your coffee, but, I am an impatient British so I make bitter coffee with boiling water.

[@alistairthow1384]

@@tonycasey3183 stir furiously and drink while still stiring. Works every time😂

[@moirab2506]

Costa Coffee shops will supply empty pod bags and when full return to them for recycling !

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Good to know! Thanks!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

This is great to know! I’m going to look more into it.

[@ElaineR66]

Thanks! I had no idea they offered this.

[@gillianfraser1990]

Really enjoy your videos. I live in Arbroath, Angus. Angus is fantastic place to visit, loads to see. Also recommend Fife coast. You must visit the Crail cafe with the amazing views. It's like going back in time. The cafe is very old beautiful cottage. St.Andrews is also a must.

[@karlaamaral395]

Have a great week to come

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Cheers! You too!

[@jstringfellow1961]

On the recycling front, I agree that we should do our part, but I can tell you now I won't take things back to the grocery store to be recycled, and I will not mail something back to someone else. If they want it recycled that badly, they'll make it less inconvenient - yes, I know, I'm a terribly spoiled American, but I believe in ingenuity! Make it happen with less bother to others.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Haha it takes some getting used to for sure! We’re getting there slowly but surely. It was quite shocking initially though.

[@rodricselbie35]

It is strange the weather, when we go over to the States (Florida mainly) in the winter we walk around in tee shirts when everyone that lives there have coats on LOL

[@TSM-908]

Finally money saving ideas. In USA college or university loans are crippling. It’s the same in English Universities it’s a Student Loan company and the repayment is based on the students’ salary ( so like tax paye, only paid if you earn over a limited amount and runs until you are 66, if you don’t earn then you’ll never pay it). It is supposed to be interest free and is, but adjusted for inflation over the years). However you’re Scottish now!! Zack was a Scottish born, so your children will (under current Scottish law) be allowed to attend university without the need to pay tuition fees in any Scottish university. You still have food and accommodation to think about but that is cheap in comparison with what you would have been saving for your children’s college funding 😁😁😁🥰🥰

[@TSM-908]

Xmas is great but in Scotland Hogmanay is equally big. There is normally an Edinburgh Hogmanay Festival. Plus the ancient tradition of first-footing (see en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/First-foot). If you’re tall that was a specially luck for the midnight party I was attending.

[@davidpaterson2309]

I had a Jamaican flatmate in London in the early 1970s. He couldn’t get a flight home for Christmas one year and we both worked overtime shifts at Heathrow airport (serious premium pay and days off, if you worked Xmas day!) Then he came to my home town in Scotland for new year. He was about 6’ 2” and quite black. As a very “tall, dark man” he had a hell of a good new year and was first foot to a number of complete strangers.

[@TSM-908]

@ I am 6ft 1in, lived all my childhood in Africa mostly Kingdom of Swaziland (now Eswatini), then longer in Rhodesia ( now Zimbabwe). So I was drafted into the military and walked across the border into South Africa, using my best fake Scottish accent lied about being mugged and losing my passport. I was held by BOSS and roughed up a little by them. I was deported from Joburg to Luanda in Angola ( while Mad Mike and his mercenaries were being shot on the beach). The Angolan military were very suspicious but after more slapping around they deported me via Swiss Air to Heathrow. They kept me in a cell for a week and when my birth certificate was received from Dundee I was put on a plane to Edinburgh, then train to my gran living in Invergowrie. I was dark skinned from sunny days and had a thick South African accent, people looked up at me with hated due to apartheid being prominent in the UK news. I quickly learned a gentle Scottish/Canadian sounding accent. I was a teenager and always wore moccasins and people would ask if I was a red indian? 🤣🤣. Very exotic look and seem very interesting to many women ( my naivety stopped my corruption 😂). Now married to my wife of 46 years. Not a bad life and like Zack and Annie I can identify with their experience and they seem like good people 🥰🥰👍❤️😎

[@marielynch2858]

I've lived in Como, by the lake, for forty years, but I'm from Liverpool, which is ALWAYS home! You must visit .. it's great for culture, (museums, galleries and of course the Beatles museum!), plus lots of places to visit with the kids. Not such a long trek for you as well. Sending a hug....and if you make it over to Como I'd happily be your guide!

[@mrsbabycakes5551]

Guys you can buy big washing machine. We have an 11.5kg and I get tons of washing in it. My Samsung can do a normal 11Kg was in an hour. It really does come down to your machine. Heat pumps do take longer to dry, however it really is very very cheap to use. Like a 1/5 cost in comparison to much normal tumble dryer. Also I bought a 9kg one and so I always see my I be able to dry like for like with my big machine. If you do not want cold toes, I strongly strongly recommend Merino wool socks you will never go back. Particularly Nordic socks. It really does make a huge difference. Also insulated wellies guys, especially for the kiddos. Muck boot company do amazing insulated wellies. Your tootsies will be so warm. They do ones that are -20. Really does come down to what you wear. Scarpa boots and shoes are amazing, keep you dry and warm. Berghaus. For rain look at goretex anything over 20’000 HH otherwise your just going to get wet. I use dry walks coats, it is an investment but the all seasons and the winter coats are super warm and they do matching coats for pooch. I have been in driving rain with these coats and been warm and dry. Fashion and rain dont mix!

[@perrydayton9138]

In Canada our pharmacists can also prescribe things for basic ailments. Its quite handy to be sure. Also for seasonal blues ie SAD illness, have you considered vitamin D supplements. Can help. We lose the sun very early and rises very late in the winter.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Great to know, thank you for sharing that. Yes, it saved us so much time!

[@juditmihalovits4641]

Hi Zach & Annie. ☺️Thank you for showing Finn . Annie Love your hat’s. Thank you for your video

[@angelacurran5924]

And at Christmas the recycling collection dates change due to the public holidays - I always get caught out and end up running out with the bins in my jammies 🤣

[@Pamela-dd8so]

Buy a pair of uggs & size up handy for nipping out for some shopping & school runs ❤ do warm n cosy. my family wear thermal long sleeve tops /tshirts from m & s, it’s all about the layers in this colder weather 🥶😂 i have a washing machine that does quick washing cycle 28 mins with a big drum inside. You can battle through 4 washing loads so quick then. I also recommend buying a 3 tier clothes heater that you plug in, it’s safe & you can dry your clothes over night for pennies, alot better for your clothes & cheaper than a tumble dryer. ❤

[@elspethlaity1890]

Another enjoyable video-I love thw Kelpies in the background.With regard to the bottle top conundrum I believe it has to do with the fact that so many of them were ending up in the sea as plastic waste so the decision was taken to keep them attached.x

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, I can appreciate that and think it was a good idea for the environment. Slightly annoying but definitely worth not having that in the ocean!

[@andypandy9013]

Recycling. Hand sorting in the home gives much better outcomes than just putting it all in the same bin. An old school friend of mine runs a recycling plant and they don't buy from councils that don't do home sorting any more. In the past they have found all sorts of things in bales of paper and cardboard like Training Shoes (Sneakers), car batteries and kids' toys!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Oh wow! It makes perfect sense, and we’re happy to do our part. Just want to give others the heads-up!

[@bobcunningham9469]

I hear you about the laundry. Our flat in Edinburgh had a washer but no dryer, and it took forever to dry clothes inside on the drying racks. We bought a dehumidifier and put it in the single bedroom with the drying racks. Still took quite a while, but certainly sped up the process.

[@Francis-xl2gu]

@@bobcunningham9469 maybe try a faster spin in winter to get rid of more of the water left in the clothes

[@sharonalexander4327]

I tried a humidifier, it's rubbish. I swear by a regular fan, I wash my clothes after 10.p.m hang them in a clothes airer, run the fan overnight, they are pretty much dry by midday. Because you washed and ran the fan after 10, the electric is reduced also. I love it😊

[@Francis-xl2gu]

@@sharonalexander4327 De humidifier !! Check out the Meaco Arete, really good

[@sharonalexander4327]

The East coast side of Scotland is always milder, we live in west Lothian, in the sticks surrounded by moss and peat so it's often damp and cold. My husband works in Edinburgh and originally from uphall so he swears it's always warmer in that general direction. He couldn't believe the difference 7 miles made when he moved through here.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, we’ve noticed this! Even when we went to see the Kelpies and Stirling on a separate trip, the weather was changing for the worse as we drove. We got lucky when filming!

[@mikefl1557]

You need to find out the names of the road gritters in your area so you can see where they're at online. All named by school children I think.

[@lynnejamieson2063]

I think the difference with the hot drinks may be down to the fact that mostly in the UK in general, hot drinks are made with a batch of hot water brought to the boil so the temperature is maintained for longer, where mostly hot drinks in the US are either done through a stream that’s heated as it flows or in a microwave…neither of which will always hit boiling point and more likely to just be hot enough.

[@mrsbabycakes5551]

Guys you can buy big washing machines. I googled America and that is about average for your large machines. You must have a tiny machine. We have an 11.5kg and I get tons of washing in it. My Samsung can do a normal 11Kg was in an hour. It really does come down to your machine. Heat pumps do take longer to dry, however it really is very very cheap to use. Like a 1/5 cost in comparison to much normal tumble dryer. Also I bought a 9kg one and so I always see my I be able to dry like for like with my big machine.

[@robertknight2556]

I love Annie's cloche.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank you ❤️

[@Lewisiaable]

Love your background ❤️ Annie your beautiful hat goes with the colours of the horse 😁 Now that’s a lot of recycling you have 😳 I’m in the uk and only have three bins in our area, plus the little food one.

[@marjorieorveau6707]

Yes, accents turn heads. I'm English living in France, I avoid speaking French in public unless really necessary as I just want to blend in rather than stand out! Love your videos and vibe and Scotland is dear to my heart.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thanks for sharing! France and the French is a whole different story! 🤣

[@JaniceFarren]

As a Scot living in the U.S for 35years I guarantee I’m asked every single workday “where are you from ?” Most common questions “Are you from Ireland ?” Or “what part of England are you from ?” 😳I have to say I’ve never once experienced negativity. I live in Idaho and sometimes for fun I’ll respond that I’m from Texas (lived there 15 years) surprisingly some people are okay with that 😂. Enjoy life in Scotland it truly is an amazing country.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

🤣🤣 Yes, Zach can completely empathize as well. It’s never once been a negative interaction, but it was something I hadn’t thought about or anticipated. I’m sure I’ll get used to it with time!

[@hunter-o7y]

I'm the opposite of you. American in Edinburgh 30 plus years and I get maybe 4-5 times a year are you from Ireland then Australia then Canada.

[@gillian3168]

Scot here living in England, I have been asked several times which part of Ireland I’m from and when I say I’m Scottish? Oh you don’t sound Scottish…..yes, yes I do however I don’t have a Glaswegian accent as well? I’m from the North East 😂

[@ABPhotography1]

Sunlamps will help Cali Annie overcome depressingly weak winter sun 🌞 ☀️ 🌤

[@pjk1714]

Recycling is complicated in Canada too. Each region can be different with contracts. I enjoy our Thanksgiving in October. Boxing Day is the best.

[@graemeirvine100]

Honestly love these videos every week. I know its came up on a few videos but you could probably fill a full video on UK/Scotland education system from Nursery thro to leaving, as significant different in Scotland and US. The PAYE point was well made, something in the UK we just assume everyone else in the world does without realising its quite specific to UK. Means majority dont think about tax at all. Anyway another great video :)

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank you so much, we truly appreciate everyone who takes the time to watch them and leave a comment. Yes, the education difference is a big one and one of the many reasons we decided to move. Once the kids have done a bit more schooling we might look at doing a video about it. Thank you again!

[@Colin32269]

I was born in Falkirk and my parents emigrated to Canada when I was 4.Now my wife and I are arriving in Glasgow from Toronto in March to begin living our (hopefully) simple Scottish life,thank you for these videos they are a great headsup.❤

[@vickytaylor9155]

When you boil water, it depends on the height of the land above sea level as to how fast it boils and at what temperature it boils. Contrary to what we are taught at school, 100° is not necessarily boiling point.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank is a good point and something we experienced when we would visit the Truckee/Tahoe area in California. Thanks!

[@AlanPatrick-w5m]

Electricity is cheaper from roughly 11pm until 7am depending on your provider. Put your washer and dryer on then. Same as a slow cooker etc.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thanks for that, good suggestion!

[@ER-eu4ci]

Friendliness and chat in the queue is something that hits home when on holiday in US. I always just as a norm chat to those next to me in line and they seem to just look like I have horns 😀. Another thing I experienced when living in US when you pay taxes and then leave to return to UK your contributions to Medicare are lost. If in UK returning to US you can claim back National insurance contribution to state pension as you won’t benefit if leaving. That was a few years ago and maybe changed but worth knowing. The biggest cultural shock when in US was religion. I think as a Scot if you say you are atheist folk are like ‘ok’ but in US if felt some people were horrified with that concept. It was Cincinnati which did have a specific way of looking at life. What surprises me is your take on Scottish weather. In US you could make plans and just knew the day would go ahead and no issue. Here it is stunning day on Tuesday and forecast for same all week, ok lets have bbq on Saturday. By time you have everyone organised, food bought and plans made its torrential rain and everyone huddled under a small table parasol - hopeless 😀 really enjoy your take on things and love you are so positive about life here. Going back to taxes, 1st yr is US I was so nervous about the tax as I had 3 levels to pay, federal, state and local for the area I lived. It felt massive to navigate and just got an accounting firm to do it rather than fear of getting it wrong.

[@jenniferjohnson2455]

UK washers also heat the water and the spin dry doesn't work as well as North America so it takes longer!

[@tjsayers5428]

Your videos are the perfect start to my week. Thank you! Do you have suggestions on how to look into retiring to Scotland? My father was born there. I spent so much time with my grandmother before I started school I had a wee accent and had a preference for Scottish words. Love hearing you speak, Zach!❤

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank you so much, we really appreciate you watching and your kind words. If your father was born in Scotland are you able to apply for a UK passport? That would certainly be the easiest way!

[@jleacock2]

Having looked into it myself a lot lately (I'm a dual citizen living in the US), I would say this channel is one of the better sources, with some excellent info on some of the crucial details and expenses). There are other KZbin sources that are great, and research on the UK gov tax info website is worth a peruse as well. The bottom line is that your retirement income will be taxed, but by how much depends on citizenship, income level, etc....

[@fuzzydragons]

the Kelpies!! i havent been to the kelpies yet! we planned to go, got lost, drove past them (so saw therm a bit lol), and ended up going to the falkland wheel instead lol lol about the rain. we are in Angus and its been pouring the last 2 days😝 house here are usually not big enough for all of the bins we need now lol my canadian accent is good for confusing crying kids, sometimes gets them t o s top crying because they are confused 😀

[@ElaineR66]

When I go for a takeaway coffee I always ask for it to be “extra hot” 😂. Asbestos mouth I do have! Oh and Annie, thank you for the correct pronunciation of Aluminium🤣

[@KevCampbell]

Americans brew coffee rather than making tea, and for that they use water below boiling point - the machines at our office show 200F/93C. Brits always boil water for tea, so drinks are just typically hotter. Our heat pump dryer also takes a long time to dry, but it’s a reasonable trade off given how expensive electricity is in Scotland.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

This makes so much sense. Thank you for sharing! And yes, although the heat pump does take forever, we appreciate that the monthly utility bill is lower and that our clothes seem to last longer (no shrinking).

[@davidglasgow8068]

Definitely a thing🤔 Starbucks and Costa coffee temperature is fine, however, indie shops do my head in with Lava coffee. I now normally mention to them to not overheat my drink, as no fun having to wait 15 minutes to take a sip. £4 for a scalding 😂

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Haha glad to know it’s not just me!

[@djs98blue]

I worked with an academic at Aberdeen University who was researching the lack of younger GPs in the highlands. He said while things are ok now there is a real issue getting younger/new GPs to move north from the central belt cities. I hope this can be sorted.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, I can't imagine, unless you are from that area, that as a newly qualified GP you would want to leave the city for the highlands. All sorts of options are decreased, another interesting piece of information though, thank you!

[@cherelise1950]

I'm Canadian and we have extra liability insurance on our vehicles just for the occasion(s) when we cross-border shop and/or travel in the US: as I'm afraid the States is known for being exceptionally litigious. We were surprised to see so many billboards advertising lawyers in the US. Rules governing billboards in Canada ensure they don't affect scenic views or traffic, and I don't recall any for lawyers, mainly real estate or retail advertising. My father was a gardener and we recycled in the 1970's for his compost. We would also separate the newspapers, glass, pop cans (of course) and plastics, so I've grown up with recycling - your children will be great at it! We have an efficient recycling program here in our small town on Vancouver Island but our family in Ontario is not required to recycle and that makes us sad - we thought everyone did it! Scottish people are lovely and Americans are very friendly too! I agree with someone else's comment that you are both friendly and approachable and therefore, are treated with the kindness and friendliness that you radiate. And, doesn't it make the line seem shorter when you take the opportunity to speak to the person also waiting with you? Looking forward to your visit to Falkirk and possibly the Falkirk Wheel? We loved Stirling too. Hope you both have a wonderful week!

[@paulief3817]

It says on most multiple serving cartons of yoghurt that you can send off for a plastic lid or you can buy them in grocery stores. With regards to people talking to you more here, I definitely noticed the opposite on the US. I remember my Dad saying hello to a cute kid sitting in a trolley in the supermarket and he started screaming, "Mom a stranger talked to me". He got a dirty look from everyone around us. When we first moved back to Scotland I hated speaking up in class. I also remember when we emigrated having crowds of kids around me in the playground urging me to say something

[@RushfanUK]

THREE AND A HALF HOURS TO DRY A LOAD, that is crazy, I have a standard tumble dryer that has a vent out the wall to air, nothing fancy, a normal load of clothes takes around 40 to 45 minutes, my biggest load is the double duvets which I am lazy so I wash with the cover on, only takes 60 minutes, sounds to me like you were sold something expensive and useless.

[@TSM-908]

Heat pump tumble driers are terrible for time but are supposedly A rated for efficiency. Same thing applies to new washers. We bought a 12Kg LG unit for the ability of washing duvets, however they use fuzzy logic and get the government A+++ rating on their water economy and electricity efficiency. Note nearly ALL washers in the UK are cold water only filled. We dry clothes in the winter in the house and use a desiccant dehumidifier. Many people say these take more moisture out of the air but use more power. Compressor dehumidifier are better. This is difficult as compressor unit are impacted by air temperature so in Scotland in winter they can be less efficient compared with the desiccant systems. Also you can use dehumidifier in summer and get less potential mould growth from humidity. However tumble dryer with wall venting our a condenser ( and you empty the container when full) are better.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Haha maybe! We just went with a Beko heat pump as our other option was a condenser. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get a vented drier as we didn’t have a place to put it, but it does take a longgg time. I think for efficiency, a vented drier will like always be the best bet.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

@@TSM-908 Thank you for taking the time to explain all that. We do have a dehumidifier in our garden room and it does work well to get big duvets dry!

[@TSM-908]

@ Most families just open up a window and stick the vent exhaust pipe out of the window gap. The heat from the tumble dryer compensates for the lost heating thru the opening window - but you have one now so you’re good, great channel 🥰👍👍

[@MrSilverbirch]

Yes,I think most of us love the NHS here(despite its flaws) because its not for profit,and therefore the trust in doctors is strong. Any chance of a country or coastal stroll soon? Need my outdoors fix,rain or shine...: )

[@MoragPacione]

Two things: Firstly, try Twining's Swiss Chocolate Drink, and you'll not get scorched. It makes fantastic hot chocolate (just follow the instructions on the label) but it cools really quickly ☕ And secondly: Zack - as my ol' Dad used to say... "Never trust a man with a small nose." 👍

[@TheJpf79]

You're in my front garden in this vid, not sure if you saw any of the other things in town while you were there? The Antonine wall runs through Falkirk, was the northern Roman frontier for about 20 years, Callander park is there now, big old mansion and lake nice walk there in the summer, some of William Wallace friends are buried in a little churchyard right in the centre of town and the Falkirk wheel out the other side, was never meant as a thing to go and see but folk wanted to go and see it. I rented my daughter an entire appartment in Falkirk during the summer for a cheaper price than a week in a city hotel, places like Falkirk are a great place for people to explore Scotland from.

[@roslinney4285]

Love that your getting sponsors. Good on you.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thank you very much. We were a bit nervous as to how it would be received, but were confident only using brands that we actually use ourselves. We got a number of offers earlier on that we passed on as they were not a good fit for our lifestyle or channel. Thank you for taking the time to say that, it means a lot!

[@maryelyse5633]

its irritating. Will maybe make me stop watching. Too many commercials.

[@roslinney4285]

@maryelyse5633 that's a pity that you will miss out these wonderful people's videos.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

@@maryelyse5633We’ll continue to do sponsorships but haven’t changed any settings. Are you getting more mid-roll ads than before? Just want to make sure KZbin is not adding more for some reason. Would love to have your insight.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

@@maryelyse5633 Hi, sorry to hear that. The ad breaks and commercials are out of our control and determined by KZbin. We do appreciate you watching and taking time to share your thoughts. All the best ❤

[@phoenix-xu9xj]

I don’t know anybody who doesn’t have a tumble dryer. we choose not to use it all the time for financial reasons and if the weather is dry , of course the clothes goes outside.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

That’s what we’re doing as well! I prefer the smell of line dried clothes, but there are some days that we just need the tumble drier for our family to function!

[@phoenix-xu9xj]

@@SimpleScottishLiving Yes towels must to go in the tumble dryer. And it’s not just heat pump dryers either. We don’t have one, we have a condensing dryer but something has definitely happened to dryers because when I got my first 40 years ago clothes used to dry in about 45 minutes. Every new dryer over the decades has taken longer and longer. Annoying.,

[@vimtorules]

Thank you both for my weekly fix , another enjoyable view. A note regarding tethered bottle tops pulled the lid over to the other side of the bottle, leaving it stuck firmly to the opposite side with its flat top, rather than its prickly ridged bottom, facing out. That way, you still ensure the entire bottle is recycled ― but you don't have to deal with any flapping lid while you're drinking. I wanted to ask what time did it get dark( sun down) in winter when you lived in the States?

[@djs98blue]

Last comment from me: have you tried using a dehumidifier in a room with drying laundry on a rack? Much cheaper and more sustainable than a tumble dryer and far quicker than just drying in a room. We’ve just got a Meaco arete one with a laundry mode.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, we actually have a dehumidifier in our garden room and if did work well when drying a duvet and other large items! Thanks for the suggestion though!

[@djs98blue]

@@SimpleScottishLivingthat’s good and yeah I was quite impressed with how well it worked. After years of repainting our bathrooms due to ceiling mould etc we decided to get one. New build homes are just so poor re humidity unless you run the heating all the time which we don’t.

[@markwilkie3677]

The relative humidity here, being a maritime climate, is more than likely why your laundry takes longer to dry. I`m not far north from you and right now its 9C with humidity level of 96% .

[@letitiakearney2423]

Wow that’s some wait for a doctors appointment. I ring before nine and always get a call back and the doctor will find an appointment same day if he/she wants to check you out same day.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes, certainly for the non-urgent things we have needed appointments for it's been about a weeks wait. Perhaps if it was more urgent they would find space, hopefully we don't have to try that out though! Thank you for the comment and great to hear the service you have in your area1

[@benjiballs]

Edinburgh resident here. If it was assessed to be urgent the Doctor would make space for you same day (or indeed refer you directly to the A&E or other NHS specialist if their assessment on the phone highlighted something clearly worrying enough

[@JadedGen]

That weather sounds stunning. I prefer cold. Scotland is on my list!!!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

We have been very lucky so far. Jan and Feb are often the worst months, so we will see!

[@Spartan16231]

I live in Germany (I’m Scottish) and love it, however, I watched a German utuber do a test where he asked people, to Either exchange money or lend him money to pay for his parking meter. This he done in Cologne I think it was and in Glasgow. In Germany I think no one was willing to help and in Glasgow 5/5 people asked gave him a pound coin and said it was ok, they didn’t need it back. That’s not to say Germans are not helpful. A friend of mine lent me €0.89cents for a bottle of water and didn’t remind me about it for 6 months!😂. Das war ein Witz Leute!

[@carolineskipper6976]

Re the hot drinks thing- tea HAS to be made with boiling water to get the best taste out of the leaves - and then adding milk will cool it just a little, but it's still hot. Coffee is best made at just below boiling point, but of course in the UK we use our electric kettles to make our coffees, and so they get made with boiling water too. A lot of places selling coffees 'to go' will ask if you want to top up the drink with cold water (particularly if drinking it black) - or even offer an ice cube in the cup so that you can start drinking it immediately. In the UK places where activities take place (like kids soft play or ice skating) have to follow basic safety standards in initial construction and also regular(daily) maintenance checks, and that beyond that the public are expected to use their common sense - ice is slippy, climbing equipment involves being high off the ground etc. I discovered years ago that if you are with people who live in different parts of the country, and the conversation starts to lag- then discussing your various local recycling systems can fill a good chunk of time! In some places different things can be recycled together, or must be separate, the collection schedules vary hugely, and so on. Hours of fun! Get you Annie- with your casual mention of 'Aluminium' instead of 'Aluminum'. You're becoming native, slowly but surely!😂 Isn't Finnegan BIG now? Wow!

[@RushfanUK]

Put the milk in with your instant coffee first it will help to stop the boiling water from scalding the coffee or get a kettle that you can set the cut off temp if that matters to you, professional coffee machines don't work at boiling point for coffee and in 35 years in hospitality I've never topped up a coffee with cold water, abomination to put it mildly.

[@rjh2772]

It appears to be that I may be able to get citizenship in England because of my father and his family are from England. Does that qualify me to live in Scotland isn’t Scotland and North Ireland part of the UK?

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Yes! With a British passport, you can live in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland freely. What great news!

[@cato1684]

It is more difficult these days. If your father was not born in England, you will not get a British Passport.

[@rjh2772]

@@cato1684 He was born in London as well as his parents.

[@alexrafe2590]

InInteresting what you say about hot drinks. I find that Brits just drink hot drinks A LOT more than Americans. But after my morning coffee and the occasional cup of tea, especially in Winter, that's good enough for me. But in Britain Winter, Summer it's hot drinks all day long. So often I'm offered a coffee or tea repeatedly, and sometimes I feel a bit like I'm letting them down. ' Sure you wouldn't like a cup of tea,' with a slightly bewildered look in their eyes. I like milk in my coffee and tea so that usually takes care of the too hot oroblem. What I love about coffee and tea on this side of the pond is not dealing with weak coffee in diners and other more basic eateries in the states, and people who don't know how to use tea bags properly. To the 'where are you from?' questions , after years and years of getting them, I learrned the art of turning the accent dial to neutral southern England for trips to shops and other brief encounters.Though I'm not sure how much that would help Annie in the midst of East Lothian🤔

[@jjsmallpiece9234]

Give the weather a chance, its not January/February yet.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Hahaha, you're right! I have been warning Annie of this...so we will see!

[@Apater6076]

Regarding the personal tax system, the US could have that too but company's like Turbotax and accountant groups lobby extensively and endlessly to prevent the US taxation system from being changed.

[@EibhlinBradford]

So how do you wash & dry quilts if the machines are smaller? I have four springer spaniels & purposely bought a BIG washer & dryer because as soon as one gets sick on your bedding & you get it all off & into the wash, another one does the same. My dryer is 7 cubit feet & natural gas; it dries a full load in about 20-30 minutes, even a big load of sheets & towels. It's really arid in California, but it's not always practical to hang all the wash out. Three hours dry time for one load would be a hardship for us.... Thanks for an informative update! I was in Somerset & also found people to be friendly & curious about being American. I also noticed that there were discarded bottles & cans everywhere on streets; you don't see that here because they're worth $$ in recycling.

[@CDB-Fiery-Aries]

Hiya, happy Sunday to see yous, as having a few glitches in RL. So, your video is a welcome relief. Zack may not know this (if you do I apologise 😮), natural selenium in Scottish soil is lacking. As it helps with thyroid functions you'll need to get a supplement if you have issues, especially you Annie.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Awe, thanks for tuning in and glad to hear we can bring a bit of relief your way! Hoping you have a better week moving forward. Thanks for the tip - we’ll look into this!

[@chriscchristodoulou7147]

Liking your videos keep going

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Glad you like them! We appreciate you taking the time to comment. Happy Sunday!

[@jsmith1071]

Wow,, that recycling is insane. We have a general recycling bin in our part of England and then they sort it for you. What a nightmare!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

It’s a lot, but we’re learning quickly!

[@nickhickson8738]

I loathe Halloween and Christmas come to that and can't wait for them to pass and then look forward to the Spring and longer days. Hey but that's just me. I do enjoy your videos though. Zack is a very lucky man.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

The short days and weather can certainly drag on...I have wanted Annie about this! And you are 100% correct, I am a very lucky man! Thank you!

[@BeckyPoleninja]

What washer and dryer do you have? I have done 4 loads of washing and drying today ( family of 4) including towels and all done in 3 hours on eco

[@johnnyboy-f6v]

She's thinking in terms of American life still - that a full family wash should be done in one cycle on a single machine in 2 hrs.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Both of them are made by Beko, nothing fancy. There are other settings that don't take as long, it was just a shock to see a number that high on any setting!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Oh wow! Our washing machine takes around an hour, but the drier is always 3hours. It’s the beko heat pump. It never shrinks the clothes, which is a bonus but just takes a long time.

[@nickhickson8738]

@@SimpleScottishLiving I'd hate to pay your Electricity bills. Mine are less than £50 per month with EDF but there again we don't wash everything in sight just those items that are soiled readily and those things are obvious.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

@@nickhickson8738 We do pay more than that, but I swear the kids just find any mud they can and start rolling around! Personally I cycle through about 3 outfits...as you can probably see from the videos! 🤣🤣🤣

[@nimrodsopinions]

Even though I moved back to the UK From the US when I was 15, I remember the sheer inefficiency of laundry being a huge (re)culture shock. No idea why it's so slow. If someone could take US laundry and bring it to the UK in full-force, they'd be a millionaire

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

We agree, especially when trying to clean clothes of 3 kids! 🤣

[@mywastili]

Hi, Zach and Annie, greetings from Greece! I have been following your journey since day one and I really enjoy your videos. I have a question and a request. I see people in the UK buying meat and vegitables in the supermarket. Aren't any small indipendent shops, butchers and so, or farmers markets in your area, or isn' t a custom to do so? And would it be possisble for you to show us a little bit more of Edingburgh and East Lothian area? Not just the historic bits, but how day to day life is, like city transport, neighbourhoods etc. Thank you!

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

Thanks so much for watching!! Yes, we do shop at a local butcher for some items, but other things are just too expensive for us at this time. We do our best to support the local community as much as we can, when we can ❤️ we’d love you to see more of the local communities. I’ll keep these ideas in mind for a future video!

[@paolow1299]

Nice video .Tea needs the water to be at boiling point when it meets the Tea leaves or it doesn't infuse properly .so nearly boiling or very hot is no good .if it's the hottest day of summer I still want Tea to burn my lips .

[@Francis-xl2gu]

Annie its called 'passing the time of day' general chit chat, love the American accent, MORE Finn please !!

[@richardpoynton4026]

I think I remember the MacDonalds law suit story - IF it’s the same one I’m thinking of, the coffee wasn’t merely ‘too hot’, it was so hot it left large scald burns on her arm that required PLASTIC SURGERY! I remember hearing the initial story that this was a nuisance lawsuit by a conman (*woman) and thought ‘typical scrounged’ (just as MacDonalds wanted everyone to think. The true story of real painful injuries due to staff negligence was never really put out there. I saw a KZbin video about it.

[@botticellirejectbotticelli2668]

I think it was even worse than that, I think her thighs and genitals were burnt too.

[@etinarcadiaego2259]

Beware of foreign jurisdictions! Scots law is largely independent of England & Wales - but in the following case - a UK wide statute applied. In Bogle v. McDonald's Restaurants Ltd. (2002), a copycat lawsuit in the High Court of England & Wales failed when the court rejected the claim that McDonald's should/could have avoided injury by serving coffee at a lower temperature. The claim against McDonald's was based on statute (rather than tort or contract) under the Consumer Protection Act 1987. McDonald’s was found not liable because (1) McDonald’s had met the legitimate expectations of consumers as to safety; (2) The employees had been sufficiently trained by McDonald’s on dealing with hot drinks such that no extra risk was posed by their youth; (3) Persons generally know that if a hot drink is spilled, a serious scalding injury can result. So justice was duly served (with the lid off of course)...Ho-hum.

[@paulief3817]

In my experience Americans don't make tea and coffee with boiling water, just very hot water. Isn't it common to make tea in the microwave there?

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

I hate to admit it, but I was a notorious tea in the microwave offender before moving. We didn’t have a kettle though, so it was the only alternative! The kettle has changed my life for the better 😊❤️