Special people make special gardens that leave an impact and great memories to anyone who visits them. In the small town of Innerleithen located in the Scottish Borders is a special garden that belongs to Bob and Betty Scott, who recently celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. The Scotts named their house Millersnuek, meaning ‘miller’s corner’. Neuk is a Scottish word for a corner, a niche or recess. According to Betty, their chosen name was appropriate for their house because Innerleithen was a mill town with various mills making woollen knitwear in the Scottish Borders.
My first visit at Millersneuk was 21 years ago to attend my best friend’s wedding; the second time was at my 40th birthday, and both times were special journeys in my life to remember. To me, Millersneuk is a happy place to come to relax, receive love and celebrate life with family.
The bench in front of the house invites anyone to sit and enjoy the magnificent views overlooking the Scottish hills. It reminds me of the scene where Bilbo Baggins was sitting on the bench in front of his hobbit house contemplating life when Gandalf the Grey stopped by before going on the unexpected journey.
Bob and Betty’s Millersneuk garden offered such a respite when I needed it the most. The first visit was during my time living in Kazakhstan as a missionary; looking back, it was a time I started showing symptoms of burnout. The second visit was right after going through my divorce. Millersneuk allowed me to sit still on the bench and take in all the surrounding beauty, bringing peace and melting away any stress and worries. My soul was refreshed before I left Millersneuk.
With all the holiday plans cancelled during the coronavirus lockdown, the garden keeps Bob and Betty busy, and helps them to be out in the fresh air. Gardening definitely adds a healthy dose of positive energy in their life, ever ready when family and grandchildren come to visit.
Previous
Next
Maya Henderson
This Blog is about finding and being with a community of plant people with the same mindset, who live, breath, and dream of plants and are happy to share our love and passion with one another.
2 thoughts on “Millersneuk’s Garden”
Great story, Maya. It’s wonderful you have a special place that’s peaceful and beautiful. Not to forget your good friends, they’re special.
Thank you Sharon. All my friends are dear to me and have special place in my heart, great people who were there when I needed them, and helped me in my life’s journey. I am also thankful for our friendship.