A family holiday challenge with an unexpected twist (and unexpected weather)
– The Big Idea
It all started at Christmas, when most people were eating chocolates and watching films. We were hunched over a giant map of the UK, arguing about waterproof trousers.
Mary — better known as Mad Mary — joined in straight away, probably just to see if we’d actually do it. Chris from Anyone Can bravely volunteered to help us get on the water. We didn’t warn him about Mary’s singing.
Chapter 2 – Meet the Team
Our team had skills. Some could read maps. Some could carry bags. Some could eat a worrying amount of flapjacks. Mary’s special skill was shouting “Faster!” at completely random times.
– Day 0: Full Speed Ahead
We kicked things off with the Anyone Can Pioneer speed boat — small but mighty, and very good at getting everyone soaked. Mary screamed in pure joy, Dad shouted about losing his hat, and the spray hit us like cold fizzy drinks in the face. Chris steered like a pro while the rest of us clung on and grinned.
– The Storm
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the USA was busy cooking up a storm. Literally. It arrived in Scotland with sideways rain, howling wind, and weather warnings that basically said, “Don’t be daft — stay indoors.”
– Making the Most of It
The Great Glen had to wait, but we weren’t going home without an adventure. We headed to Invermoriston waterfall — roaring water, sparkling mist, and nature showing off like it was in a shampoo advert
– The Plan
The Great Glen isn’t going anywhere. We will try again — next time with bigger snacks, better weather, and possibly snorkels.