Brougham Castle

One of the coolest castles we saw in England this spring was Brougham (pronounced "broom") Castle in Cumbria. Not only does it have well-preserved ruins and stairs leading all the way to the third floor, but I love the story behind this castle.

Unlike other females at the time, Lady Anne Clifford was supposed to inherit her father's properties, including Brougham Castle, upon his death. However, they went to an uncle instead. So Lady Anne spent years getting back the Clifford properties and restoring them. She actually died in Brougham Castle in 1676, in the same room her father was born in.

This castle is going to be featured in a couple of scenes in Book #3 of my WWI trilogy - and may involve an aeroplane ride and a kiss or two. ;)

Take That Fear of Heights!

I don't know if I've mentioned my fear of heights on here, but it's bad. I don't ever plan on going to the top of the Space Needle or the Sears Tower. And drives through the mountains with steep cliffs and that itty-bitty guard rail make me physically cringe.

But I took another step toward ignoring and conquering that fear! Last night, with a bunch of youth from my church, I went rappelling. And not just a short rappell. No, this was down a 100 foot cliff face.

Was it scary? Yes, especially at the beginning when you have to climb over the cliff ledge. But I didn't look down at all. And when I got to the bottom, my hands trembling from gripping the rope so tight, it was the coolest, adrenline-rush feeling to know I DID IT.

What have you done to conquer your fears lately? Have you ever been rappelling?