Hello folks! It's been no rest for the wicked this week. On my last day off before panto finishes, I was up with the larks and off to Auld Reekie.
My lovely cousin Caraline has been in town for a few days from New York. The poor lassie has been working herself silly down in London for LCM (London Collection Men's) as a stylist, so hopped on a plane to the motherland for some much needed RnR. Nae luck doll, I've traipsed her along with me on my jaunts and fueling her with New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. You can keep your dry January, we white wine girls just wanna have fun!
I went over to Edinburgh to catch up with my darling pal and legendary work colleague Una McLean, who plays Molly in River City. This week is extra special because Dame Una is celebrating her 86th birthday - I kid you not. The woman is other worldly and could run rings around some folk I know I'm their 40s!
We have been great pals for years now, Una joined the show a year after me and Shieldinch just wouldn't be the same without her. Tom Urie, who played her son, Big Bob used to say that Una's laugh should be bottled and given out on the NHS for free. It's so infectious (in a good way!)
Caraline and I treated the birthday girl to a fabulous lunch at the Outsiders restaurant on King George 4th Bridge. The staff were so amazing and attentive, the manager sent champagne up and the owner came to wish Una congratulations. Deservedly so if you ask me, she is the ultimate star; fur coat on and everything! We cackled, reminisced and toasted to my wonderful friend on such a special birthday. Here's to many, many more Una - It's such a privilege to call you a pal.
After a quick nap at the hotel, we headed into town for some more food and cocktails at Tigerlily on George Street. Caraline and I were joined by the lovely Nicola Wood, who was enjoying a rare night off from being a mummy.
I was a guest on The Late Show with Ewen Cameron, it only launched a few weeks ago and is the first of it's kind on Scottish TV. James Corden came on via video link to wish Ewen well on his debut show!
I loved it. I was allowed to drink wine and swear if I wanted, but managed to keep it together. We chatted mainly about the huge loss of David Bowie, with ex Simple Minds manager Bruce Findlay joining me as a guest on the sofa to share his stories of meeting David Bowie throughout the years. I wasn't a massive fan, but I loved his whole ethos and the impact he made on pop music will be remembered and celebrated forever.
After taping the show, the girls and I headed to the Balmoral Hotel for cocktails. The poor barman had to ask us to leave so he could lock his doors. Sign of a great night I'd say. Don't fret Glasgow, Edinburgh is a good time gal for a night or two, but my heart belongs to you.
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