40: History of Highland Traditions. How Do We Get Mail? Garden Rescue, Island Life Vlog Scotland

We share the history of Scottish traditions and customs of Highland crofting life. We're frequently asked how on earth we get our mail and in this episode we show you the process of collecting over on the mainland, and bringing back to the island. Discussing our new arrival in the spring, and brushing sheep! Gardening during winter begins with leaf mulch and hedge-trimming.
Welcome to The Scottish Isle. A 'fly-on-the-wall' channel where we share the captivating world of our life on this private island in the Hebrides. Our channel is your window to the rich treasures of this unique way of life, showcasing Scotland's beauty, local traditions, and the enchanting, old-fashioned lifestyle we embrace. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore the stories and wonders that shape our island life, from breath-taking landscapes to cherished traditions; the renovation of a 300-year-old cottage, and the restoration of antiques. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay up-to-date with our latest episodes. Let's embark on this remarkable adventure together!
Disclaimer: The comments and opinions expressed within 'The Scottish Isle' vlogs are solely those of Scott and Katie. They do not represent the beliefs, thinking or judgements of the owners of the island.
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Background music:
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01: 'Sí Bheag Sí Mhor' - attributed to Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738). Performed by Lily Neill on harp. Reproduced with her kind permission.
The original performance can be found here: • Sí Bheag Sí Mhor - Lil...
02: 'Kean O'Hara' - Turlough O'Carolan. Performed by unknown on harp. Reproduced with kind permission.
03: 'Fanny Power ' - T. O'Carolan. Performed by Reidun Schlesinger on harp. Reproduced with her kind permission.
The original performance can be found here: • Reidun plays "Planxty ...
04: 'Martese e Lumtun'. Performed by Lily Neill on harp. Reproduced with her kind permission.
The original performance can be found here: • Lily Neill - Martese e...
05: 'Sí Bheag Sí Mhor' - attributed to Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738). Performed by Lily Neill on harp. Reproduced with her kind permission.
The original performance can be found here: • Sí Bheag Sí Mhor - Lil...
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Please support all of the talented musicians who kindly give their music to be featured in 'The Scottish Isle':
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Reidun Schlesinger's KZbin channel can be found here:
/ @reidun_schlesinger
Reidun Schlesinger's website can be found here: harpmusic.ie/
Reidun Schlesinger's Facebook page can be found here:
/ harpmusic.ie
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Lily Neill's KZbin channel can be found here:
/ @lilyneill8169
Lily Neill's website can be found here: www.lilyneill....
Lily Neill's Facebook page can be found here:
/ lilyneillmusic
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Maija Lindaas' KZbin channel can be found here:
/ @maijalindaas1454
Maija Lindaas Turlough O' Carolan performances can be found here (reproduced with the kind permission of Land O' Lakes Arts (LOLA)):
• Turlough O' Carolan
Maija Lindaas website can be found here:
www.lessonface...
Land O' Lakes Arts' website can be found here:
lolaartswi.com/
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[@TheScottishIsle]

Please support our channel at www.ko-fi.com/thescottishisle Paypal: [e-mail] Patreon subscription: www.patreon.com/TheScottishIsle 4K Ultra High Definition Camera campaign: ko-fi.com/thescottishisle Please follow The Scottish Isle on Instagram: instagram.com/thescottishisle?igshid=NGExMmI2YTkyZg%3D%3D Amazon Wishlist: www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/1TD40LOSIWHIH?ref_=wl_share For further information please contact us at: [e-mail]

[@gwencrosswhite9329]

Katie, I love your positivity and the way you just get on with it…no whinging. Also enjoy your history lessons. You’re a great teacher.

[@janwilletts1986]

Fast becoming one of my favourite channels, looking forward to the podcast.

[@lieuwina]

I love learning about the old ways and how folk lived in the Highlands and Katie and Scott when you tell us the history of the Island and when you visit places too. The sheep are lovely and was so sweet when Katie asked for the Sheep's paw and she gave it and your cat in the background. Have a lovely day.

[@judymcgovern8454]

Loving the history that you post Kate. Aww, melts your heart watching your sheep enjoying the fuss they get. X

[@janetmackinnon3411]

Thank you--and looking forward to the next!

[@phatwombat4241]

Sitting here in 40c looking at that frost is soooooo cooling!

[@mikeriddell176]

I really love to see you both with your sheep. Nothing like a nice brush down

[@rebeccanicoll2550]

Always a pleasure, Katy I admire how resilient you both are. You have so many talents and I truly love the history lessons.

[@lauraautry6992]

The sheep are so precious and so content . Excited to see the lamb this spring. Would love to spend a day on the island with you both 🤗❤️

[@maryellenkrause7126]

I told a friend about your site. Her grandfather was born in Inverness Scotland. She is also enjoying your videos. We have learned so much about Scotland .

[@TheScottishIsle]

Thank you, that's lovely. 🥰

[@pamelajones2060]

I’m so impressed with the camera placing then the riding away or towards, knowing that there is a LOT of walking back. I also love the music. 🎵

[@TheScottishIsle]

🤗

[@mitchgunn4149]

The bar on your trimmer was frozen. Future suggestion... let it sit in the sun a wee bit if it happens again.

[@lynndarge2778]

Love your channel, especially Katie's history chats. I love learning about the old ways and how folk lived in the Highlands. I have lived here 18 years now and still adore it and am constantly exploring and discovering new things. Thank you for adding to my knowledge in such a gentle way ❤

[@stevensoncl]

I don't understand something - you're the only residents but you still get post and there is traffic? I'm obviously missing something, my apologies. Katie, I love how much you love your sheep, you brushing them shows how much you care ♡

[@TheScottishIsle]

That's over on the mainland, Steven. Aye those two are a pampered pair! Kx

[@JHruby]

Often the two oppsing blades on those electric hedge trimmers will form a slight bit of surface rust and bind just enough to prevent the unit from starting. Some electric trimmers have a sensor that won't allow the unit to start if the blades are jammed. After a period of storage, before using the unit, use a small tool like a screwdriver to gently slide the blades forward and back to free them. A dose of spray lubricant or wiping with vegetable oil also helps.

[@garylovattlovatt193]

We're loving this❤

[@TheScottishIsle]

Thank you! 🤍

[@rebeccanicoll2550]

I love how resilient you both are! You have so many talents and the history lessons are a delight!

[@PawfectPastimesAmo]

The quad could be Rabbie the Red Rover 😂 Definatly find a little Seagull engine. Basic and repairable.

[@marypasco2213]

12:54 These are the type of baskets I envisioned you taking with you, on your walkabouts, to bring a few pieces of firewood back with you.

[@vikkijeffcott4337]

Sorry but I had to laugh when your trimmer started. I really enjoy when you share the history lessons.. I have Scottish heritage...🇦🇺

[@TheHylander27]

My new favourite sound, sheep eating apple crisps 🐑🐑🐑

[@TheScottishIsle]

😆

[@dianehigham1293]

You could call your trusty steed Steed and hum the Avengers theme 😀 ❤ xxx

[@lizthompson9653]

Beware of bungy chords. I worked in nhs and a senior manager lost his eye when one flew back like it did on your finger. He had fastened something on the back of his motorbike. They were banned forthwith in the trust i worked for. Loving the videos. Very calming watching the scenery and admiration for all your endeavours 🙂

[@TheScottishIsle]

Someone we know told us the same thing happened to a friend of theirs. They perish quite easily. Horrid things! Kx

[@silviac221]

I loved the ending, with all that sheep grooming. As I'm watching you in the company of the beauty queen of a dog that I live with, who's also love itself, I can understand friendship with other species so well. Isn't it marvellous? Looking forward to the arrival of the little lamb!

[@TheScottishIsle]

It is just wonderful being around animals, I agree! Kx

[@bdavolls]

Get a goat - ace fun for all the family!

[@annehicks9992]

Is your postbox on the Mainland ?? You must be knackered rowing over there daily 😮

[@whiskeycook3323]

Thanks for sharing another nice video

[@colleenmckinlay2916]

So enjoy hearing about Scottish history. When I was little, my Dad always did the first footin- he delivered coal and Mom’s fruit cake to all the neighbours after we rang in the New year. Fond memories. Your scenery shots are always amazing. Looking forward to meeting your new little lamb in the spring. Always something to see or learn on your channel. 💕👍🏻

[@singing-sands]

What? Twenty-seven minutes went by in a flash! A most enjoyable visit.

[@justanotheragamuffin]

I've found the part about ironing natural fabrics to be all too true! My wool feileadh mor could always use it but it is currently beyond my means 😂

[@merchantvoyage3563]

I think you should name your little island, "Isle of Ewe." Say it fast, you'll see what I mean! Love, Mary

[@lilac9639]

Will you be using the stones and rocks from the old dwellings to build the sheep hut. Or is there plenty of material easier to get to, for you to use? 😃

[@TheScottishIsle]

There are loads of rocks around we can use, robbing stone from further afield would be a hard lift, methinks! Kx

[@allonesame6467]

💖 Love The Scottish Isle 💖

[@karlab9557]

Another lovely video! LOL for Bri and Crowdy running behind the house to hide from the otters. 😆

[@rogerhance2057]

Why don’t you get a ram and then you could have lambs you got to ewe’s

[@britishgal1808-Sue]

💕 We really enjoy your channel💕 The sheep 🐑 🐑 looked so floofy after their brushy brush. I can’t wait for you to get a baby lamb 🐑 they are so flipping cute. :)

[@StuartWoodwardJP]

Send a parcel with an airtag in it to yourself. Then you can track where it is and report it to the delivery company.

[@gjmiller138]

This episode was so relaxing watching the beautiful sheep and kitties enjoying the sun and attention. I want to give the sheep a hug 😊

[@tripletgirl2484]

So enjoy your videos and the history you share.

[@davidprice1356]

I too love to see the old photos and hear the stories of how in the old days the people lived. They made do with what they had and could gather from the land. Your channel brings to me a bit of that in real time and is very enjoyable, even the mundane parts. Kind of like living history to beautiful music.

[@LillyEve1]

You should invest in a stabilizer for the camera. Will make it less wobbly and less motion sick.

[@TheScottishIsle]

We're ordering a gimble shortly. We should be using it by the end of the month.

[@mybeautifulmatilda500]

I just admire you both so much for being so hard working. You do not complain about undertaking the not so nice jobs that have to be done and your mutual respect for each other shines bright. I love everything about this channel, from the scenic views to the beautiful interactions with all of your pets who love you so both so much. Scott must spend hours editing your videos and that is a hard job in itself. This old lady thinks he is fabulous. Thank you so much, I really appreciate you both.💕💕

[@brenwyckoff]

Knew you'd figure out how to get those packages loaded on th quad!! We have faith in your ingenuity!! Such a funny story, the sheep running from the sea otters!!😄 Savor these adventures ♥

[@TheScottishIsle]

Yes, you're right to point out we should savour them. We will, thank you. Kx

[@ginnyshayne2702]

I very much appreciate your channel. I started watching as you began and look forward to each new one. Your epoisodes are a genuine treat for slowing my pace, and appreciating the small things.

[@Kim-J312]

4-Wheelin' 👍💪 , and no one there to tell you "Your off trail " 😄 Fun

[@mariapottery]

Put a camera by your drop off of your delivery place. This way you can complain at the post office. They will know how doesn’t deliver your packages at your place.

[@liesavillandre3481]

My husband names our vehicles, his red work truck is" Diablo," my "Camery" is the "silver bullet", and his regular truck is the "boat puller." The boat is "Black Betty" He also names his fishing rods, "Darth Vador" and Excalibur" the two I can remember. Your animals are so cute, and I know it is hard to take care of at times, but they do have a wonderful life there.

[@johnmonroejordanlashare4976]

Are you familiar with a John G. Paton of Scotland. Who was a missionary.

[@TheScottishIsle]

I have read briefly about him! Kx

[@janehodgett959]

Can you spin the wool from the sheep? 😃🤩🙏🏻✨🐑🐑🐑

[@TheScottishIsle]

I have a wheel, Jane, but I'm not very experienced! That's the plan, regardless. And felt! Kx

[@koheleth7098]

My wife suggests you name the quad "Quadimoto."

[@TheScottishIsle]

All puns gladly accepted. lol

[@adelinefinlay1582]

Another lovely one….thanks for sharing!

[@lindachenoweth9002]

I'm still trying to catch up, and I think I missed some episodes. Going to look for more🙂!

[@TheScottishIsle]

We post 2 episodes per week, every week. Usually a Sunday and a Wednesday night, at 7 pm (GMT).

[@DomingoDeSantaClara]

I suspect your cutting bar had stuck, probably gum from previous work, give it a quick spray of WD or a brush of diesel or light oil before you put it away.

[@vikkijeffcott4337]

Wondering if you do anything with the wool from the sheep?

[@TheScottishIsle]

I've used it in the past for re-upholstery, but I have a wheel I'll train myself on this year, and have plans to felt, too. Kx

[@iamshotty]

The garden is looking fabulous. As are Crowdie and Bree. Getting a third wool baby!! Yes I love the idea. They are so cuddly, beautiful and loving. Can't wait (: I hope Esha and Jeeves are doing well too. Big cuddles to them xx Teresa ❤🇦🇺

[@enjaw9479]

Or maybe two goats? They are so much fun.

[@margaretlynch1494]

🙋‍♀️❤️

[@Dore60]

👍

[@linalindholm5623]

🌳🪚👌

[@jennifercopley1626]

1:06 just spectacular

[@susiea1419]

All those leaves would make amazing compost for growing veg!

[@TheScottishIsle]

Trust me, there is NO shortage! lol Kx 😂

[@mariarobinson-jh7dm]

As much as I enjoy the scenery, I enjoyed you two just standing around, brushing and feeding the sheep having a conversation. I look forward to the podcasts and learning about your backgrounds as you are both so talented in restoration and history. Do you know how many families would have lived on the island back in the 1600-1900? I can just imagine highlanders raising cattle and fishing.

[@TheScottishIsle]

I've got as far back as 1782 so far. There are records of 12 people living in this wee cottage at one time, too! Kx

[@carolynstewart5825]

Really do not mind the Quad heavy sections. I look forward to learning a bit more about you two. However, my late Mum would say, "Always, look forward, don't look back...unless it is relevant!" Good to hear about the possibility of a spring lamb! It seems to be the week for delivery dumping, I was physically threatened by one this week, because I asked them to just do their job properly! Read the address, read the delivery instructions and deliver the parcel or package! A joy to see you together with the animals. Take care in the rough weather due across Scotland soon. As always a pleasure to see and hear from the two of you!

[@pear1jbb]

Really like the historical commentaries. Put together nicely, and the photos are wonderful. JBB

[@glenysperry3421]

What type of hedge was being trimed?

[@TheScottishIsle]

Berberis!

[@glenysperry3421]

Thank you. It looks like it still has leaves on it so I was wondering. I looked I up, do you use the berries?

[@TheScottishIsle]

@glenysperry3421 We've not seen the berries on it, yet. They have uses, do they? Kx

[@glenysperry3421]

Barber's vulgaris, yellow flowers, fruit redberry ripens in late summer or Autumn. RIch in vit. C but difficult to harvest because of thorns. In Europe traditionally used in making jam. More info on google. Thank you from 🇨🇦, your videos are most interesting and entertaining.

[@PhilONeill]

That bleeding trimmer ay!

[@mikepallister3037]

This winter is brilliant

[@girlnorthof60]

Speaking of people naming their quads... my Yamaha Rhino 700 (in my bio picture) is named Daisy, as in 'Driving Miss Daisy' 🤪 I'm young & quite fit, but losing my ability to walk, she safely gets me in/out of the mountains & lakes here in the Yukon.

[@myownlittlehouse471]

Your sheep are SO sweet!

[@CindyMccomb-fz7kp]

❤️

[@LeonieThorneycroft]

Scott and Katie, thank you so much for that episode.I too imagined all the walking backwards and forwards to record for us the mail run on the quad bike..there is so much beauty in frost crystals on every sort of plant in the landscape.. I have to say too that your next lamb have a cheesy monica ,because Brie and Crowdie make me laugh. When you two visit me here in the south of the South Island ,it is as if I really am there.I laugh, make comment,comiserate with you.Its as if you were right here .See you next week.

[@RandallSchwed]

👍

[@pip-woollycwtches]

Your right the lamb will come looking for the bottle. Mine would leave the field, full of ewes and lambs….usually with a friend or two in tow and come and shout at our back door when he was hungry. Just remember if you get a male he will need the snip snip 😝😖. Crowdy is thoroughly enjoying her pamper 😊.

[@TheScottishIsle]

They're so much fun, aren't they?! Ours shout at us too if they're hungry or anticipate an imminent dinner! Kx

[@annehicks9992]

Funnily enough, down here in Cornwall we have the same problem with evri. They say they've delivered when they haven't.

[@lindabaker2905]

Beautiful sunshine, beasties and humans ❤

[@eileenowens8888]

the leaves would make good compost katie xx

[@AnthonyMcTigue]

VERY GOOD LUCK TO BOTH OF YOU RITE DESISION AWAY FROM MODERN MADNÈSS YOUL GET USTED OF THE COLD AFTER A WHILE

[@vintagecasual7185]

Would a little seagull outboard motor fit onto your dinghy? Rowing looks exhausting 😐. Love your vids, never miss them ❤

[@TheScottishIsle]

Gosh, I really don't know anything about outboards.. We're going to have to learn about boats. Thank you for watching! Kx

[@iforwilliams2509]

Good idea, I would be concerned using that little rowing boat with those currents.

[@jeffatkinson3288]

​@@TheScottishIslea small 2 hp motor would be a life changer for you and they weigh very little and drink very little fuel.

[@vintagecasual7185]

Nor me but I remember my uncle having a small seagull brand outboard that he called a little workhorse, light enough to remove from his dingy to his car and vice versa but powerful enough to get him across the harbour to his boat. They just chug away 👍

[@lindagage7315]

Your editing is getting good,good stories and chats! The morning frost was beautiful!

[@lindam4308]

Iv just found ur channel and I been binge watching. A love the sheep especially giving u a paw haha so cute. We really have a beautiful country.

[@AnthonyMcTigue]

VERY MUCH LIKE HERE IN WEST OF IRELAND DONT WEAR GLOVES AND AFTER A WHILE UR HANDS WILL TEMPER TO THE COLD

[@jenniferfarrah3134]

Ahh 😌, another lovely relaxing video . The ground was so lovely and crunchy . Love hearing Katie’s stories , a pity some of those old values aren’t still around now . Respect for one’s neighbours & trust . I definitely will be listening to your podcasts . As always Thankyou . Love the sheep 🐑😘

[@amyfaith2350]

Crazy about Otters...please photos if you can!

[@robertlawrence5433]

Great no 41. looks nice and frosty, good job on that ceiling and the bread, I also forgot the Popeye signature tune.

[@annehicks9992]

Seems an odd place for a berberis hedge 😊

[@CrankyBeach]

Add your hedge trimmer to the list of machines that are afraid of us. As soon as it knew it was going to be taken apart, it miraculously resumed normal operation. At my former job, co-workers used to come and tell me the copy machine was jammed. And I swear, I no more had to just walk into the copy room and the machine would unjam itself. True story.

[@philiptaylor7902]

Another brilliant instalment.

[@Ms.LisaDawn]

Love your videos.❤

[@suzannehaigh4281]

Living alone yet tons of traffic and post brought to the gate?

[@TheScottishIsle]

Seeing as our post is delivered to a locked access gate over on the mainland, that is indeed the case. No postal service or traffic on the island.

[@suzannehaigh4281]

@@TheScottishIsle You never mentioned this. I lived in a remote area in the Highland for 14 years so I have a reasonable knowledge of how things work

[@submarineUK]

@@suzannehaigh4281 Well, Suzanne, why don't you take the time to watch the 41 episodes in entritey before making spurrious comments on other people's lifes.

[@suzannehaigh4281]

@@submarineUK I lived for 14 years in a remote Highland croft, so I know more than you friend.

[@donalda2240]

Enjoying your You Tubes. By the way, you get Sea Otters in the Pacific so you are just seeing otters - in the sea.

[@joyceglaister2086]

Hi Katie, Scott your cats and sheep - I love watching your podcasts and following the work you have done to your cottage. The scenery is absolutely beautiful. The photography in 43 with the frost and snow is both artistic and stunning. You bring much pleasure so please continue producing such interesting work. Thank you!!

[@evastanford2249]

Thank you for the history, told as if you were there Enjoyed

[@ooooooosea]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@marilyn4098]

Thank you! 😊

[@StuartWoodwardJP]

Guard Sheep!

[@bs6281]

Do you spin their wool or plan too?

[@TheScottishIsle]

Yes, I plan to! I've used it in the past, but not yet for spinning on a wheel, only a drop-spindle. It was a bit lumpy. 😆 Kx

[@elainerowland7565]

Great show !!

[@gloriacoffey4651]

Do you get to see the aurora borealis there?

[@TheScottishIsle]

Not according to one previous resident, but February is the most likely time of year so maybe we'll be blessed with a sighting! Kx

[@stephenbassett4317]

Just found you. Wonderful.

[@StanleyKelly-r6v]

Love and light ireland

[@jeanwilson5029]

You seem to have a lot of post I wondered why some comes to the island and some you have to collect from a post office.

[@TheScottishIsle]

It all gets delivered to our post box on the mainland. Kx