Something between spitting and rain greeted us when we pushed off at 7:15 this morning.  For two miles we weaved our way through the many buses that serve to bring the droves of workers into the city to begin the day.  One turn and we were on a bike path, able to relax a little and notice that it was quite chilly outside (55°), but the rain had stopped.  We enjoyed the pathand small roads for over an hour.We passed many fields of sheep, filled with grouse and an beautiful home. then a climb over the mile long bridge that crossed the River Firth of Forth and to breakfast.  A quick pedal into town and we found a little shop with only three tables; one saved just for us.  We enjoyed the best Scottish breakfast (no Black Pudding, but we did have Haggis) cooked by the cheeriest Irishman we’ve ever met.  As seems to always be the case when our bellies are full, we climbed…..for twelve miles.  The climb, though difficult, was beautiful through the forest.  From our high ridge, we could see a mist over the valley below.  As we began to drop, the mist got wetter and colder.  Halfway down we had to stop to grab our raincoats, as much for warmth as to stay dry.  At the bottom of our long and cold descent was Kinross, there we ducked into a coffee shop for cappuccino and a most incredible toffee and banana cake; just what the doctor ordered to warm the soul.  As we left, the ceiling was lifting, the temperatures had jumped 10 degrees and there was a breeze blowing the clouds away. From here we were either slowly climbing or rolling down the hills, fascinated by the play of clouds and sun on the hills in the distance.  One very long climb served up one fantastic (40mph) descent (though Travis would not like it),  At the bottom or our two mile drop, we met Catherine and Nicolas on a bike holiday from Belgium.  We rode with them for a few miles and then caught them again in Perth.  They had more miles to cover, so we said our goodbyes, though we may run into them again along the way.  We checked in as the clouds were once again building.Before we headed out for a walk about town, we had a quick drink??  Apparently, still trying to warm up or just getting in the Scottish spirit a shot of whiskey with a beer chaser.We walked the couple of blocks to the River Tay and then to dinner.  The 51 miles were tough today; a good night’s rest is much needed.  

 Shout out to Simon at Sustrans, great advise on the course and very well signed.