London in November is, to me…the train from Waterbeach to Kings Cross, with runny noses and the eastern sun beating on our warming faces.
London is Naomi yelling/screaming the entire way from the train station to Parlaiment Square in a cab (we tipped the cabbie 8 pounds because we felt so bad for him) because she simply didn’t want to sit down. London is ducking into Westminster Abbey and paying anything they would charge us because of frozen fingers and cold ears.
London, for me, today is my amazement at the Poet’s Corner (Chaucer!!) and the tombs of Elizabeth I, Mary Tudor and Mary Queen of Scots.
It is taking a short wave at Big Ben and then jumping into the first cab that would stop for a painfully obvious American family. London is letting Naomi “stand” in the cab toward the museum so she wouldn’t scream. Some fights I am going to just choose not to fight.
London is the Subway sandwich shop that sold something familiar for the kids to eat (sort of).
London is catching our train home only to find the rest of work-week-weary city headed to our same destination. We stood for the 60 minute train ride and Hope fell asleep on the floor sitting on her father’s feet.
you’re so brave! i am thoroughly enjoying hearing about your travels abroad. it sounds so adventerous and romantic, but i am stateside and haven’t traveled much, yet, so i’m sure that colors my opinion. it must be so amazing to see such aged, historical relics.
I agree with Joy -how brave to travel and see the sights with little ones in tow. The kids truly make it an adventure. I love hearing about your trip but with a bit of envy – can’t wait to visit England myself some day!
Poet’s corner made me laugh – my English teacher (9th grade) had us memorize poems and if we made a mistake we had to stand in poet’s corner – that is my memory of it!
It sounds crazy and wonderful, all wrapped up! I suppose that pretty much sums up life when you have small children, even when you’re not an ocean away from home!
glad you had such fun…even in the cold! amazing…love dad
London ROCKS! And Westminster Abbey? I can still remember the feeling of awe when I stepped into that building and looked up. Unbelievabley BEAUTIFUL. We were also able to attend an Evensong there that was maybe the most beautiful, spiritual experience I have ever had.
So glad you’re having a good time. Soak it up!
What an amazing gift to give your kids! Traveling opens their minds and hearts to see the world differently. Good for you for jumping in with both feet!