Started with just Clydesdale in my latest save. After around 100 years I've added Galloway and Carrick, to create my own little corner. Foolishly started a war with the Duke of Lothian, who I under-estimated, two years after it begins I go bankrupt due to the cost of the war. In a frankly huge stroke of fortune the Duke of Lothian dies the same month, and his son offers me peace which I gobble up. Currently trying to recoup my money, pride and army for my next attempt at expansion. May look towards Ireland instead, but the English are already making moves that way.
Probably doing fairly shite, but wanted to start low so I could get to grips with the game without the hassles of rebellions and plots against me. Starting to realise the importance of arranging marriages too. Been reading about trying to get claims on other counties, and it turns out you can look up claimants, and invite those with strong claims to your court. Once they've arrived you can declare war on their behalf.