Scots work ethic

Photo: Old Stirling bridge by Robert Houston 1891-1940 , oil on canvas
After lunch today in the Smith Gallery with an old friend she took us through to the main gallery to show us a painting of Stirling Old Bridge (see photo) with the tall Poorhouse  built in the 18th century  at one end.
Today it has long gone to be replaced by a row of terraced house. She lives in one.
Work ethic 
This morning three men arrived in subzero temperatures, -4 C , before 8.30am to repair some fences broken down in recent gales. I asked how they could possibly knock poles in the ground in this weather and they replied: “ no problem. We just hammer through the ice.”
It reminded me of the time when I first moved to Scotland, many years ago, and I was struck by two things about the Scots: their incredible work ethic and love of an early start. 


Today my friend's partner had left at 5.30 am to drive north for a day running a training session on mountaineering survival skills in the Scottish Highlands. He would then drive home again.
Of course Scots are well known for working hard often  in difficult conditions, and coupled with their entrepreneurial skills accounts for their success when they move south or emigrate. 
Yet I am still in awe every time I encounter it.
 
Of course Blipfoto was founded by a Scot, Joe Tree, in 2004 and his Scottish background has been an integral part of this platform’s identity and community.