Monday, April 6, 2009
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Last Blog Entry
Last blog entry
About half way through this ten hour flight from London to SF. We all sprang for the economy plus seats (66 pounds for 5 extra inches-but because the cabin is so empty it is worth it. I have four empty seats next to me and have stretched out and taken a nap.)
Yesterday we spent most of the day at Windsor. The Queen was not in residence so we did not have tea with her. Otherwise perfect. I think the last time I was at Windsor Castle with Ron, Andrew and Milan was about ten years ago. That would have been after the fire and some of it must have been closed for renovation. Anyway-it’s in wonderful repair now. Just as we arrived we saw the changing of the guard by the Irish troops. I wondered if that had political implications as the police officer was just killed in Ireland. In the lead was a beautiful Irish wolfhound that did not look all that happy to be leading the parade. It’s not as if the Queens Corgi’s are expected to do such menial tasks.
When I get home I promise to put some pictures up on the blog. The last hotel we stayed in charged for internet and that irked us. On our travels we were used to going in any pub and getting a lager or pot of tea and free internet.
Traveling in the off season really has its advantages. The tourist places are so accessible. Yesterday at Windsor I really enjoyed seeing Princess Mary’s doll house with real electricity and working plumbing and dolls given to Elizabeth and Margaret by France complete with wardrobes and accessories. I remember seeing them as a child and they were every bit as fantastic yesterday.
Diane chatted up the staff in red capes and found out the interesting bits. It is nice to gossip with the staff and learn the inside scoop.
Patti bought a Victorian walking stick with a silver head for RT and managed to get it on the plane with no hassle from security. It is wonderful. I bought nothing. It would have been a good time to shop as the dollar is so good against the pound but I did not see anything I wanted.
We spent our last pounds at the shops in Heathrow getting English magazines for the flight. It has been great reading Tatler about the Duke of Marlborough’s fourth wife (he married for the 4th time last year at the age of 82 to a woman 32 years younger.) The good news is that she has lots of money as running Blenheim Palace is an expensive proposition. The cutest little OAP working in the gift shop at Blenheim told us all about this gossip when we were at the palace. She also showed us where their private apartments were (“that little yellow bit where it curves in the front”) from the window in the gift shop. Also the unfortunate bit about his Heir, the 12th Duke of Marlborough who has a drug problem. Apparently the Duke has things arranged so Jamie (his prodigal son by wife #1) will not be able to sell off Blenheim or the palace contents to support his habit. This has happened in the past as earlier Dukes sold off contents of the palace to support their lifestyles.
It’s been a great two weeks in Jolly ‘ol England. I’ve been energized and plan to get home and work in my garden as soon as I recover from jet lag. Looking forward to spending time with Ron, walking Alistair and Fiona, chatting with Andrew on the phone and spending time with friends.
Hello Blog Followers,
As the youngest travelingWAG and driver, I guess I should weigh in with a few thoughts. The trip was wonderful. I got to go back to many places RT, Erik and I had been to during the 4 years we lived there. It was just as beautiful as ever. We went by both of the houses we lived in while in the UK. The one in RAF is being renovated. The whole housing area is under a complete re-do. It looks like it will be very nice when finished. Our house in Bicester town was kind of unrecognizable. They took out the stone fence that was in front of it, and added on/remodeled. It was much cuter before.
It was also great fun driving (really). I felt pretty comfortable after the first day or so. Bev and Diane kept me on the correct side of the road. Being able to do what we wanted on our schedule was worth the few anxieties I experienced during the week. I was excited to get to stay in the Deddington Arms. I spent lots of time in that village when we lived there. Brought back lots of good memories of fun times.
London still feels like home. Nothing much changes there, thank God. I hadn’t been to the Tower of London so that was a highlight for me. I did want at least one bauble from the collection…Oh well, one can dream! I even found one of our old favorite restaurants Toppo Giggio.
Diane was a great organizer with her Rick Steve’s in hand. We saw lots on his walks through London. Had a great boat ride on the Thames, but I won’t go on as you know what we did while there. Old Rick is a great partner in travel, but he has left out the best part of being over 60…Senior Rates. We need to suggest he tell people about it.
Looking forward to getting home to some warm weather!
Cheers,
Patti
About half way through this ten hour flight from London to SF. We all sprang for the economy plus seats (66 pounds for 5 extra inches-but because the cabin is so empty it is worth it. I have four empty seats next to me and have stretched out and taken a nap.)
Yesterday we spent most of the day at Windsor. The Queen was not in residence so we did not have tea with her. Otherwise perfect. I think the last time I was at Windsor Castle with Ron, Andrew and Milan was about ten years ago. That would have been after the fire and some of it must have been closed for renovation. Anyway-it’s in wonderful repair now. Just as we arrived we saw the changing of the guard by the Irish troops. I wondered if that had political implications as the police officer was just killed in Ireland. In the lead was a beautiful Irish wolfhound that did not look all that happy to be leading the parade. It’s not as if the Queens Corgi’s are expected to do such menial tasks.
When I get home I promise to put some pictures up on the blog. The last hotel we stayed in charged for internet and that irked us. On our travels we were used to going in any pub and getting a lager or pot of tea and free internet.
Traveling in the off season really has its advantages. The tourist places are so accessible. Yesterday at Windsor I really enjoyed seeing Princess Mary’s doll house with real electricity and working plumbing and dolls given to Elizabeth and Margaret by France complete with wardrobes and accessories. I remember seeing them as a child and they were every bit as fantastic yesterday.
Diane chatted up the staff in red capes and found out the interesting bits. It is nice to gossip with the staff and learn the inside scoop.
Patti bought a Victorian walking stick with a silver head for RT and managed to get it on the plane with no hassle from security. It is wonderful. I bought nothing. It would have been a good time to shop as the dollar is so good against the pound but I did not see anything I wanted.
We spent our last pounds at the shops in Heathrow getting English magazines for the flight. It has been great reading Tatler about the Duke of Marlborough’s fourth wife (he married for the 4th time last year at the age of 82 to a woman 32 years younger.) The good news is that she has lots of money as running Blenheim Palace is an expensive proposition. The cutest little OAP working in the gift shop at Blenheim told us all about this gossip when we were at the palace. She also showed us where their private apartments were (“that little yellow bit where it curves in the front”) from the window in the gift shop. Also the unfortunate bit about his Heir, the 12th Duke of Marlborough who has a drug problem. Apparently the Duke has things arranged so Jamie (his prodigal son by wife #1) will not be able to sell off Blenheim or the palace contents to support his habit. This has happened in the past as earlier Dukes sold off contents of the palace to support their lifestyles.
It’s been a great two weeks in Jolly ‘ol England. I’ve been energized and plan to get home and work in my garden as soon as I recover from jet lag. Looking forward to spending time with Ron, walking Alistair and Fiona, chatting with Andrew on the phone and spending time with friends.
Hello Blog Followers,
As the youngest travelingWAG and driver, I guess I should weigh in with a few thoughts. The trip was wonderful. I got to go back to many places RT, Erik and I had been to during the 4 years we lived there. It was just as beautiful as ever. We went by both of the houses we lived in while in the UK. The one in RAF is being renovated. The whole housing area is under a complete re-do. It looks like it will be very nice when finished. Our house in Bicester town was kind of unrecognizable. They took out the stone fence that was in front of it, and added on/remodeled. It was much cuter before.
It was also great fun driving (really). I felt pretty comfortable after the first day or so. Bev and Diane kept me on the correct side of the road. Being able to do what we wanted on our schedule was worth the few anxieties I experienced during the week. I was excited to get to stay in the Deddington Arms. I spent lots of time in that village when we lived there. Brought back lots of good memories of fun times.
London still feels like home. Nothing much changes there, thank God. I hadn’t been to the Tower of London so that was a highlight for me. I did want at least one bauble from the collection…Oh well, one can dream! I even found one of our old favorite restaurants Toppo Giggio.
Diane was a great organizer with her Rick Steve’s in hand. We saw lots on his walks through London. Had a great boat ride on the Thames, but I won’t go on as you know what we did while there. Old Rick is a great partner in travel, but he has left out the best part of being over 60…Senior Rates. We need to suggest he tell people about it.
Looking forward to getting home to some warm weather!
Cheers,
Patti
Monday, March 9, 2009
Monday morning
Diane and I both slept well. It seems cold and windy outside. THe shower was the most straightforward yet.
We forgot to mention that we got into Warwick castle for the OAP rate of 11 pounds yesterday. Might have to retitle the blog Three OAP's traveling in England. Children got in for 10 pounds, adults 18 and children
Off to Windsor after a proper English breakfast of eggs, bacon, bangers, toast, mushrooms and grilled tomatoes. I have high expectations as dinner was wonderful at the Deddington Arms. Bev and others in the OAP gang.
Diane and I both slept well. It seems cold and windy outside. THe shower was the most straightforward yet.
We forgot to mention that we got into Warwick castle for the OAP rate of 11 pounds yesterday. Might have to retitle the blog Three OAP's traveling in England. Children got in for 10 pounds, adults 18 and children
Off to Windsor after a proper English breakfast of eggs, bacon, bangers, toast, mushrooms and grilled tomatoes. I have high expectations as dinner was wonderful at the Deddington Arms. Bev and others in the OAP gang.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Sunday in England
We left a homey B and B run by Viv and Fred with the help of Mr. Takamura, their 8 year boader who is also an engineer for Honda. He much prefers the UK, "too hot and humid in Japan". At first, we thought what have we gotten ourselves into, the place is a little less than elegant to say the least, it took us about an hour to even find the place and we never would have without the help of a kind stranger at the petrol station. Located way out in BFE, ask your kids if don't know that expression, with only the smallest of villages nearby, we were there to see Warick Castle the next day. As the evening progressed we fell in love with Viv and Fred. Fred is 89 and does the gardening. Viv is a whirlwind of energy and activity. Dinner was family style, a good hearty stew,salads and bread. The other guests were very interesting, a lady,DEb,who was showing her collie at the dogshow in Crofts and her mom Sylvia. They live on the Isle of Man and welearned alot about show dogs and the Isle. We also had, Sam, the grandson of Fred, a carpenter who is currently buildig a cottage on the property. Shy and sweet, we finally got him to talking, he grew up in Wales, learned Welsh, which he thinks he can no longer speak. He proudly showed off his building to us this morning. Mr. Takemura is a hoot, bright, funny and very helpful to Viv and Fred. He helps them both and takes care of the goats and chickens - his job is"poop cleaner" his hobby is at Honda. There were also 4 acupuncture students, but we didn't get to drill them until this morning. One is from Scotland, the other 3 English I think, the program takes 3 years to complete and they stay with Viv when they come down for school which seems to be on the weekends. So what looked like a bust to begin with turned out to be a wonderful evening and we feel like we have a new friend in Viv. ML's you would love her!!
WE are in Dannington now, BEv already told you about that. Windsor tomorrow.
Our love of the Brits continues they are all very anxious to talk with us, discuss Obama, so far they all love him and are glad to be rid of both Bush and Tony Blair, talk of the economy both here and there and anything else American. They all profess to "love" America and Americans. They find us very friendly and enthusiastic. We, of course, are trying to tone it down so not to appear too obnoxious, but they seem to want to have a chat.
I should probably have one more language lesson at least,maybe we will do that tomorrow for all of you ready to expand your minds. We have access to a computer tomorrow at our hotel so it should not be a problem.
Very cold today, windy, and we had our first real downpour which we got caught in, not too bad after almost 2 weeks. It was sunny and lovely when got up but they say, wait 5 minutes and then will change and boy did it.
More tomorrrow,
Diane, Oldest and therefore semi head WAG
WE are in Dannington now, BEv already told you about that. Windsor tomorrow.
Our love of the Brits continues they are all very anxious to talk with us, discuss Obama, so far they all love him and are glad to be rid of both Bush and Tony Blair, talk of the economy both here and there and anything else American. They all profess to "love" America and Americans. They find us very friendly and enthusiastic. We, of course, are trying to tone it down so not to appear too obnoxious, but they seem to want to have a chat.
I should probably have one more language lesson at least,maybe we will do that tomorrow for all of you ready to expand your minds. We have access to a computer tomorrow at our hotel so it should not be a problem.
Very cold today, windy, and we had our first real downpour which we got caught in, not too bad after almost 2 weeks. It was sunny and lovely when got up but they say, wait 5 minutes and then will change and boy did it.
More tomorrrow,
Diane, Oldest and therefore semi head WAG
Deddington Arms
I am relaxing in the tiny room that I am sharing with Diane. She and Patti are watching rugby in the pub downstairs.
We left Vi and Fred after a delightful breakfast and headed to Warwick Castle and took the tour and headed for Banbury (of fame: there was a fine lady upon a white horse, with rings on her fingers and bells on her toes, she shall have music where ever she goes.) I remember coming to Banbury as a child and having a creme puff and thinking that nothing could be so great. We had lunch there and I opted for a glass of South African wine and a goat cheese tart. Walking to a ATM (they call it a hole in the wall) I got sterling and then drenched by a downpour before we made it to the car. Driving is going well, Patti got on the Motorway (scary big freeway) and we went 20 miles and it felt great, sun was out by the time we got to Deddington and we walked into a cute antique shop. It is Sunday and nothing much open.
Having a wonderful time and everyone we meet wants to know if we like Obamaand if we think he can fix the econmy and end the war. The dollar is really strong against the pound and we are finding things a bargain. Lots of closed shops and evidence that things are not good here. A buck up attitude esp. with older people who talk about World War 2 and pulling together.
We left Vi and Fred after a delightful breakfast and headed to Warwick Castle and took the tour and headed for Banbury (of fame: there was a fine lady upon a white horse, with rings on her fingers and bells on her toes, she shall have music where ever she goes.) I remember coming to Banbury as a child and having a creme puff and thinking that nothing could be so great. We had lunch there and I opted for a glass of South African wine and a goat cheese tart. Walking to a ATM (they call it a hole in the wall) I got sterling and then drenched by a downpour before we made it to the car. Driving is going well, Patti got on the Motorway (scary big freeway) and we went 20 miles and it felt great, sun was out by the time we got to Deddington and we walked into a cute antique shop. It is Sunday and nothing much open.
Having a wonderful time and everyone we meet wants to know if we like Obamaand if we think he can fix the econmy and end the war. The dollar is really strong against the pound and we are finding things a bargain. Lots of closed shops and evidence that things are not good here. A buck up attitude esp. with older people who talk about World War 2 and pulling together.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
English Lesson 1 answers and an update Saturday
Well class I hope you have all tried to answer the English language lesson from yesterday and hopefully you are all correct. We have had such a good time with the language and the people, I thought we should share that part with you. So for the first round of vocabulary here are the answers:
pud - dessert from pudding, refers to all dessert on the menu, notice that I started with that!
veg - all vegetables on the menu, served separately in their own bowl, not included on the plate with the meal
brilliant - great, terrific, fab idea
WAG - this is annoying, Wife and girlfriend, think Prince Charles
concession - the discounts given to us as OAP's always referred to as the concession, has a nicer ring to it doesn't it?
Toucan hump crossing - we have no idea, something to do with driving and a cross walk but we have yet to figure it out.
sorry - always used instead of excuse me in any and all situattions
whole meal, or the brown, - whole wheat bread or toast
spotted dick - sponge cake, figure that one out!
cuppa - cup of tea
cream tea - tea and scones in the afternoon accompanied by clotted cream and jam, yum!
As you can see most of my language acquistion has to do with food, no real explanation that I can think of to explain that one.
Today we are outside of Warick, in a B and B out in the countryside. It was quite a feat to find this place, let's just say we drove in circles for quite a while, finally stopped to ask for directions and this lovely man (lovely is another word overused here) took pity on us gave us great directions and led us part way here. Thank goodness or we would never have made it.
The last 2 days we were in Moreton-in-Marsh at the Horse and Groom, an old rooming house from the 1800's. Tom, our host, was wonderful and fun, his brother was the cook and it was fantastic food. Even has been written up in the Good Food Guide. We had this dessert last night, meraguine toffee cake sort of thing, Tom would not give out his mom's receipe, I guess even Better Homes and Gardens is after it. We drove all over the Costwold's exploring some great old towns and would love to come back and do some walking on the "public footpaths" of which there are many, many miles. The Brits love to "walk about", it has been too cold and the paths too wet for much of that this time.
We have been lucky with the weather, it has been cold, but that has notstopped us from trudging about, only a little rain, the most rain was on the day we were traveling by train and car so it didn't bother us at all.
Tomorrow we are going back to the Cotwald's from Warick, we will tour the castle tomorrow morning, the story behind not staying at this B and B will have to wait until we get home, then off to Windsor, more castle touring and home.
We may not be so lucky to have another chance at a computer, but we hope to add to the blog at least once more, but if not, it has been hard getting wi fi.
Miss you all, anxious to get home, but loving the trip too.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane offical WAG scribe, the original version not the Brits version and her traveling band of OAP's Bev and Patti
pud - dessert from pudding, refers to all dessert on the menu, notice that I started with that!
veg - all vegetables on the menu, served separately in their own bowl, not included on the plate with the meal
brilliant - great, terrific, fab idea
WAG - this is annoying, Wife and girlfriend, think Prince Charles
concession - the discounts given to us as OAP's always referred to as the concession, has a nicer ring to it doesn't it?
Toucan hump crossing - we have no idea, something to do with driving and a cross walk but we have yet to figure it out.
sorry - always used instead of excuse me in any and all situattions
whole meal, or the brown, - whole wheat bread or toast
spotted dick - sponge cake, figure that one out!
cuppa - cup of tea
cream tea - tea and scones in the afternoon accompanied by clotted cream and jam, yum!
As you can see most of my language acquistion has to do with food, no real explanation that I can think of to explain that one.
Today we are outside of Warick, in a B and B out in the countryside. It was quite a feat to find this place, let's just say we drove in circles for quite a while, finally stopped to ask for directions and this lovely man (lovely is another word overused here) took pity on us gave us great directions and led us part way here. Thank goodness or we would never have made it.
The last 2 days we were in Moreton-in-Marsh at the Horse and Groom, an old rooming house from the 1800's. Tom, our host, was wonderful and fun, his brother was the cook and it was fantastic food. Even has been written up in the Good Food Guide. We had this dessert last night, meraguine toffee cake sort of thing, Tom would not give out his mom's receipe, I guess even Better Homes and Gardens is after it. We drove all over the Costwold's exploring some great old towns and would love to come back and do some walking on the "public footpaths" of which there are many, many miles. The Brits love to "walk about", it has been too cold and the paths too wet for much of that this time.
We have been lucky with the weather, it has been cold, but that has notstopped us from trudging about, only a little rain, the most rain was on the day we were traveling by train and car so it didn't bother us at all.
Tomorrow we are going back to the Cotwald's from Warick, we will tour the castle tomorrow morning, the story behind not staying at this B and B will have to wait until we get home, then off to Windsor, more castle touring and home.
We may not be so lucky to have another chance at a computer, but we hope to add to the blog at least once more, but if not, it has been hard getting wi fi.
Miss you all, anxious to get home, but loving the trip too.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane offical WAG scribe, the original version not the Brits version and her traveling band of OAP's Bev and Patti
Sheep and Goats
We left the Horse and Groom and vowed to return. What a special Inn! We drove into Morten-In-Marsh and checked out the shops, on to several more Costwold Villages and then to Warwick. Warwick has a famous castle that I remember seeing as a child. We are at a small, homey B & B Northleigh House near Hatton, nr. Warwick. Had lunch at a nearby pub. These pubs are so improved from the 70's thanks to no smoking laws.
THis B & B is in the home of Viviane and Fred and is quite interesting but lots of cats. We have decided to stay only one night as it is rural. Great footpaths but the weather has turned wet and windy so I don't think we'll be walking. THe garden is lovely and two sheep and 2 goats add to the ambience.
THis B & B is in the home of Viviane and Fred and is quite interesting but lots of cats. We have decided to stay only one night as it is rural. Great footpaths but the weather has turned wet and windy so I don't think we'll be walking. THe garden is lovely and two sheep and 2 goats add to the ambience.
Modern England
Saturday March 7th
During the four years when I lived in England during the mid 70's showers were largely unknown. Since then they have gotten into them in a big way. We are often baffeled by the controls. Some show the water temperature and have options that are amazing. In London the shower had a huge pan on the ceiling and it was like being in a rain forest, no option of not washing your hair.
Decorating has changed too-large print carpets have been replaced by softer solids. Coal fires replaced by log fires.
The flowers and gardening are spectacular-even in winter. Flower boxes bloom, bulbs flowering in every garden and church yard.
During the four years when I lived in England during the mid 70's showers were largely unknown. Since then they have gotten into them in a big way. We are often baffeled by the controls. Some show the water temperature and have options that are amazing. In London the shower had a huge pan on the ceiling and it was like being in a rain forest, no option of not washing your hair.
Decorating has changed too-large print carpets have been replaced by softer solids. Coal fires replaced by log fires.
The flowers and gardening are spectacular-even in winter. Flower boxes bloom, bulbs flowering in every garden and church yard.
Friday, March 6, 2009
I am awake early and have WiFi in my room so I will post a short update. Today we leave the Horse and Groom nr Morton-in-Marsh. Tom and the staff have been so wonderful. The rooms are wonderful and the food and wine brilliant! Last night I had sea bass, Patti and Diane lamb with rosemary dumplings. We are off for two nights at another B & B. This is a lovely way to see the Costwolds. Day is bright and sunny. Weather has been good on the trip. One rainy day so far and that was the day we traveled on the train from London to Oxford and picked up the car. We have stayed off Motorways in favor of A and B roads, more senic and easier driving.
We have returned to the Horse and Groom after a great day in the Cotswolds. My favorite village today was Upper and Lower Slaughters. At the end of the day we went to South Cerney to see the village where I had lived when I was 6 years old. It was just as cute as I remember it! Diane took my picture in front of “Brook Cottage”.
We have been meeting lovely English people. Today in a pub we were drinking tea and trying to blog (difficulty charging my laptop and getting WiFi) and a woman came in with a darling King Charles Spaniel and she was shocked when I told her that dogs were not welcome in public places. She asked me where in the states I lived and concluded that California was too hygienic and I assured her it was true of the entire country. Hard for her to believe! And Alistair and Fiona would be so happy to wander the village of East Sac and go into pubs, restaurants and shops.
Diane is having a great time with the language and Patti and I are working very hard to get her up to speed. Food has been sooo great. Last night I had mussels in a creamy sauce that were wonderful. In fact, we have not had a bad meal. Enough typing as Diane wants to finish her English lesson and educate our American blog fans.
We have been meeting lovely English people. Today in a pub we were drinking tea and trying to blog (difficulty charging my laptop and getting WiFi) and a woman came in with a darling King Charles Spaniel and she was shocked when I told her that dogs were not welcome in public places. She asked me where in the states I lived and concluded that California was too hygienic and I assured her it was true of the entire country. Hard for her to believe! And Alistair and Fiona would be so happy to wander the village of East Sac and go into pubs, restaurants and shops.
Diane is having a great time with the language and Patti and I are working very hard to get her up to speed. Food has been sooo great. Last night I had mussels in a creamy sauce that were wonderful. In fact, we have not had a bad meal. Enough typing as Diane wants to finish her English lesson and educate our American blog fans.
We finally are able to get on the wi fi, it has been a major problem and have figured out how to use this thing! Todays lesson is all about language. Now, we all think that we speak English but that is not the case. We are learning an entirely new speak here in jolly ole'. Lucky for me B and P have lived here before. So here goes, see if you can figure out what these mean: the pud, the veg, brilliant, WAG, concession, Toucan hump crossing, sorry, whole meal, spotted dick, cuppa, cream tea. You will need to read the rest to find out the answers.
We have been in the Cotswald's for 4 days, it is as cute and wonderful as you have heard. There is no end ot towns with charming names, cute shops, houses
We have been in the Cotswald's for 4 days, it is as cute and wonderful as you have heard. There is no end ot towns with charming names, cute shops, houses
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Blog Disclaimer
For all of you who have been trying to check this we are sorry! We just spent 2 hours in a pub, not sooo bad, trying to fix this. At first it didn't show us that it had posted so we kept posting it, a million times, then we tried, actually Patti and Bev, figured out how to delete!! So now we are hoping to post only once an entry. We just had a wonderful dinner in a little restaurant called The Boot, decorated with shoes, pictures and letters to accompany each shoe, from famous Brits of all sorts, from sports to politics - the Bee Gees among them, a fun idea for sure. We had a great day today and tomorrow, Thursday we are off to Cotswalds which I think I already said. Patti gets major pats on the back for the driving, in the dark, no street lights, darker than you can imagine and little tiny country roads, not to mention she can't drink!! Hopefully we will have better luck from now on. Love to you all, OAP Scribe Diane and her traveling band of WAGS, Bev and Patti.
Sunday, Day 5
I’m back in London after the fabulous wedding of Corrinn Miller Buland to Roger Elford in a church in the small village of Chiddingfold. The church is 1000 years old and lovely! The service was very traditional and conducted by a woman Reverend (Church of England). Beautiful bride and groom and well dressed guests with hats! I sat with Chris Gerwig, Karen Thomas and John Macfadden-the American contingent. The reception was in a tithe Barn 45 minutes from the Church. All the guests rode in a double decker bus. The day was mild and sunny and a perfect day for a perfect event. The reception included champagne, hors douvers, sit down dinner, band, dancing and was in the most beautiful setting. The Americans toasted Corrinn as a sweet tomato and gave the Brits a short rundown on the agricultural products of the central valley. Donna was a beautiful Mother of the Bride. We managed a couple of meals together and a long walk and good visit in the two days I was in Guildford. I was so thrilled to share such an occasion with them. It is hard to believe that Donna and Phillip have been married for 14 years, she and Corrinn made a total adjustment to living in England, Donna has gotten a PhD, Phillip an MBA, raised 5 kids to adult hood, moved 4 times and more. Donna’s son Matt and Heather are planning a wedding in California in May, they were in the wedding party and are another darling couple that Corrinn had met at UC Santa Barbara. Corrinn’s Dad and 83 year old Grandmother were in attendance.
Hello all,
We have been trying to get on the blog for some time now and it is not happening at this point. So a quick overview of the trip so far. Arrived with no problems and found our way to our lovely hotel, the Wyndham at Chelsea Harbor. Our room is actually a suite very nice. We quickly discovered some minor problems which began a series of calls to the desk for: a clogged drain (man sent up, very workman like chap), hand cream, the maid to make up the hide-a-bed, another robe for Mrs. B, hand lotion, and finally a call for our luggage which they were “bringing right up”, not. All this after we had marched all over London while we waited for our room to be vacated and cleaned. We made some logistical errors that first day while we figured out the buses and the Tube, not too bad though.
Day 2 found us at the Tate Museum and then sending Bev off to the wedding. Patti and I explored more and happened upon a scene in front of a Wolford’s Lingerie Shop where apparently Lindsay Lohan was shopping. The cameras and the photographers with huge cameras were everywhere; some kids had even climbed a tree to get a glimpse. She emerged and strolled right past us as the mob ebbed and flowed around her. As she pulled away the motorcycles raced behind her car cameras flashing.
Day 3 – Patti and I walked for about 5 hours at least all over – took a Rick Steve’s walking tour of the West End; saw Piccadilly, Trafalgar Square, Covent Gardens, Leicester Square, and Regent Street with all its great Victorian architecture, mingled with all the Londoners out on a Saturday. We also discovered today that we are OAP’s – Old Age Pensioners, which entitles us to discounts (concessions) on entrance fees and passes. So show passes cost us 3 pounds less and musical theatre tickets 30 pounds less! We like it! But sadly, no one has asked to see and ID, they just take a look and give us the discount! We have enjoyed the Pubs and the Pub food.
Day4 we are off to the Tower of London via the river Thames. The Tube stop was closed so Rick Steves sent us by boat, turned out great, saw London from the river and it was only a 20 minute trip. The Beefeater tour of the Tour was funny and very informative, the crown jewels are everything you would expect them to be, beautiful, huge, and unbelievable. We stopped by Big Ben, Westminster, and Buckingham Palace on the way back to the hotel where Bev had returned from the wedding. She loved it, met some great people and has some ideas for our own event coming up.
Day 5 – Today was ride the Tube day. We went to Leicester Square to get theatre tickets but they didn’t have what we wanted, so back on the Tube to Victoria Station to buy the tickets @ our OAP price, back on the Tube to Covent Gardens, back on the Tube for Piccadilly and down Regent Street to find the recommended spot for high tea. Shopping and high tea a great spot called Sketch, a mix of old and new, off to the pub for a before theatre snack and off to see Billy Elliott. Home via, you guessed it, the Tube and to be at 12:30!
We have found the Brits to be friendly, extremely helpful, especially the transportation folks, who we have dealt with a lot. They are always ready to tell us the best and least expensive way to buy a ticket or get from one place to another. The weather has been pretty good, a little cold, but not bad, and no rain and we have found our way all over the city proper with very little confusion – ok, some, but not too bad. Patti and I did walk the entire length of Regent Street before we realized we wanted to be at the other end and only 2 blocks from where we originally started but what the heck? They keep their stores, hotels and pubs pretty hot and stuffy, even we have been too hot. Bev says the plumbing is much improved, but now it is really a power shower, and flushing has been interesting a couple of times – you really have to push the handle down and hold it – too much info? A great trip so far.
Wednesday March 4, 2009
Breakfast in the breakfast room overlooking the grounds, very nice. It is a sunny day again after rain and wind last night, cold but we are bundled up and it is not bad. Somehow I got 2 eggs for breakfast while Patti and B only got one, but they had meat and I didn’t so I think that was the difference, even though Patti thinks I may have gotten special treatment. We also had “whole meal” toast and French press coffee. For tea drinkers the coffee has been exceptionally good.
Today we are off to Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill. The palace was spectacular the tour was very well done. It is huge, hence a palace, the current and 11th Earl is still in residence in one wing. In order to maintain it, he has opened the rest to the public and also permits events to take place on the grounds throughout the year. Hardly should cramp his style since all 3 of our homes would easily fit inside his section with much room to spare. He is an interesting guy, currently at the age of 88, is on wife #4 who is 50. We got all this juicy info from Mrs. P Beard, gift shop lady, who was ready to tell all and did until she had more customers. The 12th Earl to be, is a druggie, you know, very sad, that lot Jaime, nothing to be done, he is the heir after all. Who knows what will happen, the younger brother is much more suitable but since Jaime already has a son, there is no way for the younger to inherit, “he’d have to get rid of three of them to inherit”, Mrs. P Beard should have downstairs dishing the dirt! We loved the tour, learned more than necessary about all 11 Earls and their shortcomings, but it gave you a good feel for what it would be like to live there. As Bev said, part of the problem was they had nothing really to do but spend money and get in trouble. Some of the 11 were better than others of course, but one had to sell off many of the family heirlooms to stay afloat.
Next stop the very charming town of Woodstock and the 13th century hotel/bar/restaurant, The Bear where we retired of afternoon refreshment. Patti is our guide as she and Ron lived not far from here back in the 80”s. Patti is doing a fab job of driving, I am navigating and Bev is making sure she is on the correct side of the road. If I already told you that, don’t read it again!
Dinner tonight at The Boot and tomorrow we are off to the Cotswalds. We are going to try and get wi fi tonight at the pub.
We have been trying to get on the blog for some time now and it is not happening at this point. So a quick overview of the trip so far. Arrived with no problems and found our way to our lovely hotel, the Wyndham at Chelsea Harbor. Our room is actually a suite very nice. We quickly discovered some minor problems which began a series of calls to the desk for: a clogged drain (man sent up, very workman like chap), hand cream, the maid to make up the hide-a-bed, another robe for Mrs. B, hand lotion, and finally a call for our luggage which they were “bringing right up”, not. All this after we had marched all over London while we waited for our room to be vacated and cleaned. We made some logistical errors that first day while we figured out the buses and the Tube, not too bad though.
Day 2 found us at the Tate Museum and then sending Bev off to the wedding. Patti and I explored more and happened upon a scene in front of a Wolford’s Lingerie Shop where apparently Lindsay Lohan was shopping. The cameras and the photographers with huge cameras were everywhere; some kids had even climbed a tree to get a glimpse. She emerged and strolled right past us as the mob ebbed and flowed around her. As she pulled away the motorcycles raced behind her car cameras flashing.
Day 3 – Patti and I walked for about 5 hours at least all over – took a Rick Steve’s walking tour of the West End; saw Piccadilly, Trafalgar Square, Covent Gardens, Leicester Square, and Regent Street with all its great Victorian architecture, mingled with all the Londoners out on a Saturday. We also discovered today that we are OAP’s – Old Age Pensioners, which entitles us to discounts (concessions) on entrance fees and passes. So show passes cost us 3 pounds less and musical theatre tickets 30 pounds less! We like it! But sadly, no one has asked to see and ID, they just take a look and give us the discount! We have enjoyed the Pubs and the Pub food.
Day4 we are off to the Tower of London via the river Thames. The Tube stop was closed so Rick Steves sent us by boat, turned out great, saw London from the river and it was only a 20 minute trip. The Beefeater tour of the Tour was funny and very informative, the crown jewels are everything you would expect them to be, beautiful, huge, and unbelievable. We stopped by Big Ben, Westminster, and Buckingham Palace on the way back to the hotel where Bev had returned from the wedding. She loved it, met some great people and has some ideas for our own event coming up.
Day 5 – Today was ride the Tube day. We went to Leicester Square to get theatre tickets but they didn’t have what we wanted, so back on the Tube to Victoria Station to buy the tickets @ our OAP price, back on the Tube to Covent Gardens, back on the Tube for Piccadilly and down Regent Street to find the recommended spot for high tea. Shopping and high tea a great spot called Sketch, a mix of old and new, off to the pub for a before theatre snack and off to see Billy Elliott. Home via, you guessed it, the Tube and to be at 12:30!
We have found the Brits to be friendly, extremely helpful, especially the transportation folks, who we have dealt with a lot. They are always ready to tell us the best and least expensive way to buy a ticket or get from one place to another. The weather has been pretty good, a little cold, but not bad, and no rain and we have found our way all over the city proper with very little confusion – ok, some, but not too bad. Patti and I did walk the entire length of Regent Street before we realized we wanted to be at the other end and only 2 blocks from where we originally started but what the heck? They keep their stores, hotels and pubs pretty hot and stuffy, even we have been too hot. Bev says the plumbing is much improved, but now it is really a power shower, and flushing has been interesting a couple of times – you really have to push the handle down and hold it – too much info? A great trip so far.
Wednesday March 4, 2009
Breakfast in the breakfast room overlooking the grounds, very nice. It is a sunny day again after rain and wind last night, cold but we are bundled up and it is not bad. Somehow I got 2 eggs for breakfast while Patti and B only got one, but they had meat and I didn’t so I think that was the difference, even though Patti thinks I may have gotten special treatment. We also had “whole meal” toast and French press coffee. For tea drinkers the coffee has been exceptionally good.
Today we are off to Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill. The palace was spectacular the tour was very well done. It is huge, hence a palace, the current and 11th Earl is still in residence in one wing. In order to maintain it, he has opened the rest to the public and also permits events to take place on the grounds throughout the year. Hardly should cramp his style since all 3 of our homes would easily fit inside his section with much room to spare. He is an interesting guy, currently at the age of 88, is on wife #4 who is 50. We got all this juicy info from Mrs. P Beard, gift shop lady, who was ready to tell all and did until she had more customers. The 12th Earl to be, is a druggie, you know, very sad, that lot Jaime, nothing to be done, he is the heir after all. Who knows what will happen, the younger brother is much more suitable but since Jaime already has a son, there is no way for the younger to inherit, “he’d have to get rid of three of them to inherit”, Mrs. P Beard should have downstairs dishing the dirt! We loved the tour, learned more than necessary about all 11 Earls and their shortcomings, but it gave you a good feel for what it would be like to live there. As Bev said, part of the problem was they had nothing really to do but spend money and get in trouble. Some of the 11 were better than others of course, but one had to sell off many of the family heirlooms to stay afloat.
Next stop the very charming town of Woodstock and the 13th century hotel/bar/restaurant, The Bear where we retired of afternoon refreshment. Patti is our guide as she and Ron lived not far from here back in the 80”s. Patti is doing a fab job of driving, I am navigating and Bev is making sure she is on the correct side of the road. If I already told you that, don’t read it again!
Dinner tonight at The Boot and tomorrow we are off to the Cotswalds. We are going to try and get wi fi tonight at the pub.
Wednesday, on our way. Plane is half full; we are enjoying the luxury of spreading out, reading magazines and time to do nothing. Patti recorded some books on her IPOD and seems to be enjoying them. Travel in the off season is at a leisurely pace. We are three hours into a ten and a half hour flight. We have decided that due to all this extra room we have on the plane, we may not be traveling with the 6 foot tall men anymore! They may have a little something to say about that, but the roominess is nice! We almost didn’t have Patti with us, she was flying to SF from Sac and when she got to the airport they told her no flights were taking off or landing in the city due to weather, she was almost on her way to London via LA. Fortunately the weather cleared and she was waiting for us when we cleared security. We grabbed a quick bite and then strolled over to our gate to find them making a final boarding call! We have never been so leisurely, thank goodness the plane is so short of passengers! We arrive at 6 am, and we are going to try and stay up as long as we can and get on London time, we’ll see how that goes! Hope you are all doing well at home, we miss you already – really! Love Mom, Diane and (Bev and Patti)
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
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