Sunday 11 March 2007

No Planes, No Trains, and No Automobiles…

or Where East Meets West

On a whim on a simply glorious day we decided to take a boat cruise downstream on the Thames and visited Greenwich (pronounced “Gren-itch” for those unaware), home of The Old Royal Observatory keeper of Greenwich Mean Time and The Prime Meridian (Longitude 0۫ 0’ 0”).

We got a late start, but still were able to stand with one foot in the eastern hemisphere and one in the western hemisphere. Not often one can do that. Plus the views of London from Greenwich Park were something to see.

Saturday 10 March 2007

I’ve started a new “hobby” today. Along the lines of my Bench Photos (some of you may have noticed there is a link to my new “Bench Blog” in the right margin in an effort to keep this blog “bench free”).

I have decided to join a photo “group”, The Way We See It - London.

In a nut shell, it is an opportunity to go out and see different parts of London and take photos. Each week a new lesser known part of the city is “assigned” and one goes and takes pictures of this area. It’s not a contest, there is no rating, it is just a catalyst (for me anyway) to get out and see parts of London I wouldn’t normally go to. Plus… I’ve decided to research new pubs in these areas, because we ALL know how thirsty one gets when taking photographs.

Amy joined me on this first adventure, but I fear it may be her last as she was “baptised” by a pigeon on a high fibre diet as she sat on a park bench while I did my thing.

Once my photos “go live” I'll post a link. Plus… one can ALWAYS visit my bench pictures if one should so choose.

Sunday 04 March 2007

We had a late afternoon flight home which allowed Amy more shopping time and me a chance to wander the side streets and see the Scala Contari del Bovolo or Venice’s “Non-Leaning Tower of Pisa”. It’s just a five story exterior staircase of an old palace built in 1499, but it DOES look like the Tower in Pisa.

- Well, it's obvious that Ray has taken charge of the blogging. He's so much better at it - and he has the time to make it his own... HOWEVER... "a light nosh", "nicked treasures", "refurbishment" and "taking the lift"... What has happened to that Texan I brought to London nearly a year ago? I think he's gone a bit native on me.

Saturday 03 March 2007

Today was our “cultural” day, visiting St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. St. Mark’s Square is full of idiots feeding those rats with wings (otherwise known as pigeons), and is also the lowest spot in Venice which leaves it prone to flooding. Several spots were holding water especially near the entrance to the church.

While not as expansive as St. Peter’s in Rome it is still impressive, just in a different way. The entire 11th century church is fitted with gold inlayed mosaics, and (also like Rome) contains nicked treasures acquired from The Crusades. The four bronze horses (taken from Constantinople) and the gold altar screen were the highlights. The Treasury Room contained some rather morbid relics of the bones of St. George and one of the Doges.

I was the only… how shall I say… “interested” one that went to the top of St. Mark’s bell tower, but wasn’t allowed to add it my “Things Climbed” list as you could only use the lift. However, I was there as the bells tolled noon which was a bonus, as were the views of the city.

Next was a walk through of the Doge’s Palace. The Doge of Venice was basically the “president” of Venice during it reign of power. Not a king… not a bishop/pope… but a Doge. I like the Stairway of Giants (the main entrance) and also the large “legislative” rooms, The Senate Hall and Main Council Hall that were adorned with gold painted wood work, large mechanical calendars, and scenes painted on every wall and ceiling.

The Bridge of Sighs connects the Doge’s Palace with the prison. Unfortunately, as with most things in Venice, there was some refurbishment going on next to it which made for a not very desirable photo. Later that evening we did the touristy thing and took a gondola ride. Honestly though… I know we were in Venice and it’s the thing to do… but it really wasn’t all that impressive. Plus our gondolier didn’t even sing.

Afterwards we finished with what turned out to be our best meal of the trip. We stumbled across this place on a side street near our hotel that did its best to discourage being “found” by tourists. No signs or menus displayed and the shades and curtains were all drawn closed. Philip peeked through a crack in the door, and saw that it was indeed open. Obviously, it was a local hangout as we watched the owner meet and greet those coming in.

It was here that I went against my usual bland palate tendencies and ordered the Spaghetti alla Venezia (the squid ink pasta), which turns the pasta, as well as, everything else it touches black!!! I also had calamari steak and grilled octopus.

Surprised??? I was.

Amy ended her meal with what she claims was the best tiramisu EVER.

Friday 02 March 2007

Today we visited the trade islands of Murano and Burano by catching the “vaporetti” (water bus… or big boat) from Venice. Murano is the sight of all the shops where hand made blown glassware is produced. Let’s just say… Amy made out like a bandit. Among her purchases was a chandelier to build her new dining room around once we get back to the states; because everyone KNOWS the first thing a house needs is a chandelier.

Burano is known for producing hand made lacework. This made it handy for Amy to buy a lace tablecloth for her dining room table that will go under her new chandelier. It is also a very scenic village. All the homes and buildings are painted different bright colours and honestly… is what I though Venice would look like. Very “postcard” picturesque. It is also the home for the church, St. Martin Bishop whose bell tower leans at 5 degrees like the tower in Pisa.

Thursday 01 March 2007

Arrive in Venice and take a water taxi to our hotel. Our small room (with a smaller shower) was very stylishly decorated in a Venetian sort of way, and had a view overlooking the Grand Canal. At first that sounds very chic, until you realize it’s like having a room next to an interstate. Still… it WAS pretty cool.

While waiting for Christine and Philip to arrive we took off walking and ended up having a light nosh off the canal near the Rialto Bridge. It was on our “shortcut” back to the hotel where we were introduced to the labyrinth that is local Venice. Dead ends, small bridges over canals, smaller alleys… but eventually we made our way back.

The four of us walked over to St. Mark’s Basilica and had drink at Harry’s American Bar which turned out to be an old Ernest Hemmingway hangout and the place where the Bellini was invented. Their Amaretto Sour needs some work though.

Thursday thru Sunday 01-04 March 2007

Hey Mambo… Mambo Italiano…

Amy had that song in her head for the whole weekend, which was fitting since we sampled all that is Venice plus some with her friend Christine and her husband Philip. They say the best way to “enjoy” Venice is to just wander the back streets, because since it’s a relatively small island you really can’t get lost… trust me… we tried.

Even in the birthplace of opera, the romanticism of a singing gondolier, the cultural expanse of early Venetian glory, and the charm of its splendid decay, for us… Venice was all about the food. Whether it was just cheese and antipasto in an outdoor café or lunch at a canal side bistro or squid ink pasta in a local ristorante (that tried oh so hard NOT to invite tourists) it was the food and wine (beer for Ray, thankyouverymuch) that stole the show.

Salute…

Wednesday 28 February 2007

Pub Update
For my complete list click on the link in the right margin.
22. The Jugged Hare: A refurbished bank building with a nice older “feel”, but not an authentic pub. We like the food there (try their Poacher’s Pie) and the high ceilings make for less smoke. Plus they serve Fuller’s ESB, my fav-o-rite ale.
23. The Clachan: SoHo area pub built in the late 1890’s and near The Palladium Theatre. Stopped in for a few before seeing The Sound of Music. Nothing special and not sure what the name implies.
24. Dover Castle: Small, HIDDEN pub built in 1777. Not very ornate inside, just your basic original, creaky, quaint, friendly “local” pub tucked back in a maze of alleyways near Regent’s Park. Worth a try to find, but bring a map.
25. Cock & Lion: Drawn in by name alone, and was disappointed with the upstairs portion. Very modern. The downstairs seemed more authentic, but it was way too crowded.
26. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese: A MUST see!! Built in 1677 on Fleet St, but still need to know where it is as the entrance is off a small alley. Really cool series of small rooms, hallways and stairs. Like nothing I’ve visited so far. Dickens-esque.
27. Seven Stars: Built in 1602 and survived The Great Fire. Located behind the Royal Courts and part of the pub is an olde wig shop. It was supposed to have won an award for being one of the best dinner pubs, but find that hard to believe as there was a small pile of cat food on the bar.
28. St. George: Small local refurbished pub on the backside of our flat. Several TV screens and off the beaten path might make this a nice one to re-visit for watching a rugby match.
29. Audley: VERY roomy Victorian pub in Mayfair. Crystal chandeliers, dark panelling, and a LONG ornate bar benefiting from either being well preserved or having a “non-altering” renovation.
30. The Guinea: Tuck away amongst the mews in Mayfair, parts of it go back to the 1600’s. Cosy little place more know for its food as it is the 3-time winner of Britain’s Best Steak & Kidney Pie. (attached restaurant was frequented by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Liz Taylor)
31. Ye Grapes: Tucked away in Shepherd Market away from the Mayfair bustle. Built in 1882, it has surprisingly high ceilings and cool wood carvings over the bar.
32. Red Lion: Near Parliament built in the late 19th century. Etched mirrors behind the bar. Not bad, just not “special”.
33. Cock & Bull: Modern Fuller’s pub (much like The Jugged Hare) in Sutton. Literally can see it from my office window. Scene of a couple “businessman” lunches.
34. The Old Star: Right next to St. James’ Park tube stop and claims to be a traditional pub. Sorry… but if you offer free WiFi… you’re NOT a traditional pub.
35. The Feather: Again in the St. James’ Park area. Was built in the late 1870’s, but the victim of a modernizing refurbishment that reduces its character.
36. The Strutten Arms: A cluttered dark, local pub built in 1848 with neat little alcoves along the side wall. Seems Peter Sellers and friends developed the old BBC radio show “The Goons” here.

Saturday 24 February 2007

Trendsetters!! (and didn’t even realize it)

After spending the late morning walking through Green and St. James’ Parks checking out how many daffodils were fooled by the mild winter (surprisingly more than I thought)… then an impromptu afternoon mini-pub crawl (sorry, but you can’t be a traditional pub if you offer free WiFi)… then venturing to St.George Tavern to watch England get absolutely SPANKED by Ireland in Six Nations Rugby… we decided to spend the evening in Kensington.

First we visited Bill Wyman’s Sticky Fingers restaurant for dinner before making our way over to Piano Kensington, a small little place that was the coolest evening we’ve had in a long time.

We were lucky enough to grab seats at the bar where we met and visited with the owner (and performer) Bazz Norton. Little did Amy realize that when she ordered that first Cosmopolitan that it would cause such a chain reaction. Seems the girly pink-hued cocktail in a martini glass caught the fancy of EVERY one else in the packed house. Toward the end of the evening, Bazz leaned over to the bartending staff and asked, “What the hell is with all the Cosmopolitans tonight?”

To which they just nodded their collective heads towards us and explained, “She started it!!”

Who knew?

Tuesday 20 February 2007

Happy Mardi Gras Day!!

Except here... here it's Pancake Day. Read HERE more details.

Show me your waffles!!

(oh.... and Happy Birthday Steph!!! Our baby is 20 years old today -sniff-)

Sunday 18 February 2007

I saw a werewolf with a Chinese menu in his hand...
Walking through the streets of Soho in the rain...
He was looking for a place called...

Gonna get a big dish of beef chow mein...
Ah-ooooooooo, Werewolves of London... Ah-oooooooooooo

Happy New Year!!!
Chinese New Year that is.

On a whim we strolled over to Chinatown this morning to take in the festivities. Watched the parade then walked through the heart of Chinatown.

Funny thing... Beef Chow Mein isn't even ON the menu at Lee Ho Fook's. Well, maybe it is during the full moon.

Ah-oooooooo....

Tuesday 13 February 2007

Day IV

First thing this morning we re-visited St. Peter’s to mail some postcards from the Vatican Post Office. Since the line to enter the Basilica was almost non-existent we decided to take another visit. This time we visited the crypts below the main floor that contains the papal tombs. The moving part of this was seeing how many people came specifically to honour the tomb of John Paul II. It also speaks volumes of the man that was JP2 comparing his plain stone tomb to those of the more egomaniacal creations of some of his predecessors.

The rest of the day was spent visiting some “other” churches in Rome. Now… let me say this. We stopped in a few parochial churches yesterday as we past them, and even the ones that could only seat 200-300 people were magnificent inside. From the outside, one might not even realize that it was a church, but the frescos, the marble statues, the domes… Those Renaissance Catholics could really do churches.

Back to today’s activities… First up was a visit to St. Peter-In-Chains that was built originally in 440 AD, but “redone” in 1475. However some of the columns of the original church are still used. This church was built to house the chains that bound St. Peter when he and St. Paul were imprisoned in Rome. They are presented within the main altar of the church.

It also contains the Michelangelo sculpture of Moses that was to be part of the tomb honouring Pope Julius II. Again… pictures (well, MY pictures that is) can’t capture the detail of his work. Along one of the side walls there were some pretty creepy memorials to “someone”. Seems my Latin isn’t what it used to be and wasn’t able to translate.

Next was one of the oldest and best preserved churches in Rome, Santa Maria Maggiore. Built in 432 AD to honour the Virgin Mary this church contains what is believed to be the remains of Christ’s manger contained in an urn and displayed in a niche below the main altar.

Along with some of the best preserved mosaics of ancient Christian Rome, the church also houses the tomb of Pope Sixtus V who probably is most responsible for Rome as it is seen today. He initiated the levelling of medieval Rome and the building of the “new” grand churches connected by long boulevards in the 16th century.

Lastly we visited the basilica of San Giovanni in Laterno the FIRST Christian church built in Rome in 318 AD, and basically the original St. Peter’s if you will. Up until 1870 all the Popes were crowned here and is the sight of the original Papal Palace.

Several relics from the pagan temples of Roman times are built into this Christian basilica. The large doors in the main entry are from Rome’s Senate House in the Forum, and the chapel in the left transept contains an altar framed by large gilded bronze columns that tradition says are from the Temple of Jupiter considered to be the holiest spot in ancient Rome.

Adorning either side of the nave are twelve huge statues depicting each of the apostles added when the church was “redone” in the 1600’s. The floor plan of this church was the reference point of most of the main churches in Rome, including St. Peter’s.

Monday 12 February 2007

Day III

Vatican City. Seems the Pope wasn’t home. Well... he didn't answer when we knocked.

So… if you aren’t awestruck by that first turn into St. Peter’s Square by the shear expanse, then just wait till you get inside. Pictures don’t do it justice. Michelangelo’s Pieta was the “artistic” highlight (I guess), but the smaller domes, the marble columns, the memorial statues, the Papal altar (made from metal “recycled” from the original pagan Roman sites), and the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament were all to much to take in. Seriously, we could have stayed here all day.

I added St. Peter’s Dome to my “Things I’ve Climbed” list, as I climbed the stairs the whole 390 ft. to the top. Amy took the lift to the gallery (the interior ring looking over the Papal Altar), but chose to let me go solo the rest of the way. Good thing because you actually have to lean to one side as you make your way up between the narrow space between the exterior and interior domes. It was worth it not only for the accomplishment of making the climb, but for the view from the very top.

The Vatican Museum was next.

I really liked the Greek and Roman statues, not sure why…just one of those things. The Tapestry Room was ok… but just entering the Map Room was incredible, almost like the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles (almost). There was some refurbishment work going in the Rafael’s Rooms making them VERY crowded so we didn’t get to truly appreciate them.

The Sistine Chapel. You know… I didn’t realize it wasn’t in St. Peter’s itself, but once you realize the Museum was originally the Papal Palace I guess it makes sense. I digress. Where was I?? Oh yeah… You’ve seen the pictures, you know the history, but it’s like seeing the Pyramids for the first time; nothing prepares you for actually SEEING it. The room was packed, but we were able to snag a couple of seats on the benches against the wall, and sit down and truly appreciate what it was we were experiencing.

This evening we took an “Illuminated Rome” coach tour that ended with dinner. There were only two couples that signed on for the meal (us and a Dutch couple), but the four course meal in a family style Italian restaurant ended up being the highlight. The special treat was the operatic entertainment supplied Francesco and Elizabeth. Amy was so impressed she purchased their CD as a memento (It didn’t have anything to do with the bottle of wine she had I swear!! They were pretty good).

Sunday 11 February 2007

Day II

This was one BUSY day. We started with “The Caesar Shuffle” beginning with a tour of The Colosseum, inside and out (with a touristy photo-op with real Roman centurion, well… that’s what he SAID!!). The sight of gladiator battles and wartime recreations it shows how ingenious Roman architects were. Built around 70 AD it could seat 60,000 spectators. Did you know, that Michelangelo, as well as, other Renaissance artists/architects oversaw the removal of most of the marble and metals from the Colosseum and Forum structures to “recycle” them into the materials needed to construct St. Peter’s (and other basilicas)?

I didn’t.

Just outside the Colosseum is the Arch of Constantine which celebrates his rise to power. It was Constantine that allowed Christianity to flourish.

We then walked through the ruins of the Forum which in its time was the centre of Rome, containing palaces and temples for the highest of Roman hierarchy. Again, most of it would still be standing if not for the Renaissance Recycling Project. Starting with walking under The Arch of Titus we past what is left of Caligula’s Palace and the Temple of Saturn.

Leaving the Forum we walked past the Victor Emmanuel Memorial (which the Italians don’t much care for) and it’s tomb of the Unknown Soldier on our way to Piazza Navonna and The Four Rivers Fountain which unfortunately was being refurbished and covered in scaffolding. There were smaller fountains at either end of the square, but still not the same.

Next was a proper visit to the Pantheon which while originally a pagan temple is now one of the oldest Christian churches. It is a circular temple with a Greek style pediment front façade. Its dome, with its open oculus top, was the inspiration for all the grand domed churches to follow, including St. Peter’s itself. The building itself is original, while the interior was refurbished during the 16th century and includes the tomb of the artist Raphael.

After stopping again at Giolitti’s we spent about 45 minutes at the Trevi Fountain just taking in the atmosphere, before trekking over to the Spanish Steps. OK… I know these are a big tourist destination, but for the life of me can’t figure out why.

Steps… by the Spanish Embassy... Ya’ got me.

After cruising up and down past the chic stores (Prada, Versace, blah, blah, blah) on Via del Corso we stumbled into Piazza del Popolo and decided enough was enough and took a taxi back to the hotel.

I told you!! A BUSY day...

Saturday 10 February 2007

Day I:

Arriving at our hotel around 14:00 we unpacked and caught the hotel’s shuttle service to the City Centre. Armed with just a map from the concierge, an umbrella and a tour book we hit the streets of Rome. With no clue as to where we were being dropped off we were led by out own innate “Oooo that looks old/neat let’s go there” ability and strolled past the Forum, the Colosseum, The Arch of Constantine and eventually ending up at the Pantheon.

We had dinner at a little sidewalk bistro that faced the Pantheon and watched the crowds walk by. Afterwards, we visited Giolitti’s which is considered to be one of Rome’s most famous “gelateria” (gelato or Italian ice cream shop), and as the Pope as my witness it was the best freakin’ ice cream I’ve ever eaten.

Di Saronno Amaretto and dark chocolate. I highly recommend some today.

It is all about the food, right?

Saturday thru Wednesday 10-14 February 2007

Veni Vidi Feeti

We came, We saw, Our feet hurt.

We celebrated our wedding anniversary by taking a long weekend trip to Rome (I think it was our XXVI or was it XXVII?? I dunno they all seem to run together). Pulling out all the stops, we even got a room without twin beds. Rome, as one can imagine, is a bustling capitol city that is built around the ancient remains of the original city. Like Paris and Cairo there seems to be no regard for the philosophy of driving lanes in the city streets. Here, however, there wasn’t the incessant honking which is surprising considering all those pesky Vespas.

While the language barrier wasn’t much of an issue, I think I have decided to learn to speak Italian. Not only is it a good spring board to learning Spanish I just think it sounds neat.

Yo Caesar!!! Which way to my hotel??

Thursday 8 February 2007

Wet and Sloppy...

No... that wasn't the kiss I got this morning as I attempted my commute to work. It was the weather as they actually predicted correctly that we would have snow. "Wet" snow as a matter of fact, and that was exactly what it was.

Amy made it to work without a hitch, but I experienced just a couple of cancelled trains... making it to the office around 9:00, and allowing me some time to take a photo or two (YESssss... that's a bench in the background. Sue me.)



It seems (from talking with people at work) that this part of Great Britain hasn’t had any discernable snow in over five years.

…and now we’ve had two in less than a month. I wonder if we should feel fortunate or not?

Wednesday 7 February 2007

Amy has been home ill all week, and it is at this time we would like to dispel any rumours that she has come down with the avian flu that is in the news here recently.

Please keep any bird-brained jokes to yourselves.

…and with predictions of substantial snowfall (this statement in itself will “jinx” that prognostication, I’m SURE of it) tomorrow morning it doesn’t look like snow angels are in her immediate future.

Sunday 4 February 2007

Amy is still not feeling well and slept till 13:00, so we stayed in and watched the Ireland v. Wales Six Nations match. I really am digging this International rugby.

I also went to bed early, set the alarm, and woke up at midnight to watch The Super Bowl. Like the World Series, we get the international feed, so we don’t get the usual booth personnel, announcers or… the commercials (thanks to Steph for calling at halftime and giving me the advert highlights).

The only American in the studio booth was an NFL “fan”.

Fan??

A FAN??

Geez… give ME the job. The game itself was called by a chap named Spero DeDes (I’m sure his mother knows who he is) with colour done by Sterling Sharpe. While it was better than having his brother, Shannon babble about he did give up the following bit of expertise, “It’s not a no-huddle offense… they’ve just decided not to use a huddle”.

Saturday 3 February 2007

It’s official. I am now into international rugby as today kicked off the Six Nations competition. After meandering through Covent Garden Market early in the day Amy and I watched the opening test of France v. Italy while enjoying an ale (or two) in a pub. I then watched England run all over Scotland from the comforts of my recliner.

Not sure if I’ll wake up tomorrow at 11:30 PM to watch the Super Bowl, so this will just have to do.

Friday 2 February 2007

So what did YOU do today??

Amy was still in Hamburg (drinking at a brewery last time I heard), and it was my Friday off. Sooooo... I ventured into the Mayfair area and of all things had a shave at Geo. F. Trumper. One of those hot towel, lather, open straight razor, leather strop type shaves.

Why?? Because I can, that's why.

Geo. F. Trumper itself was a pretty cool little place. Established in 1875 it is recognised as the finest gentleman’s barber in London. It was quite the upscale establishment and I was completely out of my element. I wonder how many guys wearing jeans EVER walk in there? Who cares… I’d do it again.

After a shave, where does one go for lunch??

Well… why not the same establishment that Frank Sinatra has tried. Seemed like a natural fit. The Guinea is a 17th century traditional pub that has the distinction of winning the Steak & Kidney Pie Championship of Britain three times. I’m slowly learning there are several ways to present the traditional meat pie. This was different than anyone I’ve had, and if it weren’t for the kidney part… probably the best. I think I’ll stick to just steak and ale ones from now on, thankyouverymuch.

On my walk home, I passed the American Embassy (which they wouldn’t allow me to photograph), the Memorial to 911, and Reformer’s Tree in Hyde Park. Funny… I was expecting a real tree for some reason.

Wednesday 31 January 2007

File this under: “Things You Don’t See Every Day”

Today at work around noon, a workmate brought it to our attention to look out the window.

Rounding the turn (as almost ALL London streets are bound to do) was a funeral procession lead by a team of white horses pulling a glass framed carriage holding a white casket with the name Anna formed in flowers on the top.

Not sure who you were Anna or what sort of life you led, but for a brief moment we all shared in your remembrance. Rest in peace.

Monday 29 January 2007

Amy was sick all weekend and spent most of it ingesting illicitly acquired American over the counter pharmaceuticals (i.e. Nyquil) trying to get travel ready for her work week in Hamburg. Other good news is that British Airways settled their differences with the air service union and she’ll be able to get home on Friday.

I HAVE A GOAL!!!

I have officially committed to ride in the UK’s largest charity bike ride, The British Heart Foundation’s London to Brighton ride. So me and 30,000+ of my soon to be closet friends will be hitting the pavement to the coast in June. That’s not a metric conversion… you read it correctly, Thirty THOUSAND cyclists.

So it’s back in the saddle, as I try to regain my cycling conditioning . Don’t worry, I’ll issue Spandex Shorts Photo warnings if warranted.

Wednesday 24 January 2007

I’m dreeeeeeeaming of a White….

You know….. That talk last week of how mild it was here??

Remember that??

Well… This morning we woke up to almost an inch of snow in the city. Just like that…It was winter. I was up early, got dressed and took a round about route to the train station this morning and walked through Green Park. It was something else making my way through as it lightly snowed issuing the first footprints in the first snow of the year.

Unfortunately, it was too dark for a photo op, and by lunch time when I went out to take these pics the snow was already melting away. These photos, by the way, are from Sutton, south of London where my office is. By the time for my trip home there was hardly ANY trace left.

Sunday 21 January 2007

Amy had to fly out to Copenhagen this afternoon, so I looked to fill my afternoon with some free entertainment. For the longest time I’ve been wanting to go check out Speaker’s Corner in Hyde Park. With its origin being tied to allowing people who were condemned to the gallows to speak their last words, it is now the area where anyone can come and publicly speak on whatever topic (except overthrowing the British government) they choose.

Most topics were political/religiously motivated. Most involve open debate with those gathered around the speaker, but ALL of them were spirited. My favourite was THIS guy. Ya’ GOTTA admire his perseverance. Either that or he needs to get there early and get a better spot.

Funny… NO one wanted to talk about how the designated hitter has ruined Major League Baseball. Go figure.

Saturday 20 January 2007

Today Amy and I ventured into the original City of London to see the Temple Church.

Originally built in 1185 by the Knights Templar it is tucked away and hidden amidst a myriad of courtyards, gardens and law offices. A very simple building inside and out, the church is known for its nine effigy tombs of medieval knights in the nave. Anyone seeing the movie The DaVinci Code will remember parts filmed in the church.

The International Mime Festival has been in town for several weeks.

http://www.mimefest.co.uk/intro2007.html

We thought about taking in a show or two but we couldn’t get Amy out of her glass box.

Thursday 18 January 2007

As Houston and most of Texas has been in the grips of (cue the dramatic theme music please… Dum-dum-DUUMM) The Winter Storm, we’ve had our own brand of severe weather here. Today the island was battered with a storm bringing winds with gusts of just under 100 mph. London itself had winds of 40+ mph.

I find it weird that Texas is dealing with freezing weather, while the temperature here was a mild 15°C (that’s almost 60°F for the metrically challenged). I’m sure the COLD weather is just around the corner.

I’ll save the discussion of MILES per hour and degrees Centigrade being used simultaneously for another day.

Wednesday 17 January 2007

You have been officially warned. This isn’t so much of an update as it is a rambling display of what has been bouncing around in my head lately. I promise… no bench pictures.

Since Amy is away traveling, (she’s either in Copenhagen or The Hague, or maybe it’s Hamburg, maybe that’s next week. I really need to check her calendar before I type) I ventured out for a pub dinner. Imagine that.

Sitting in The Jugged Hare (to be included in my next pub update), on a rather chilly evening, it was quite nice sitting at the bar enjoying my ale and a hot Poacher’s Pie. I couldn’t help but think as I ate my pastry covered rabbit, boar, venison and pheasant that this might actually have been more fitting served in Oscar’s trailer back in Splendora. I digress.

I knew coming over here that there would be certain vernacular differences. I can accept that, but some things just stike me as odd. Like why is it “dogtooth” instead of “houndstooth”? After all, there are foxhounds here. Why I even KNOW their is a difference or why it “bothers” me is somewhat scary, but then again… you were warned.

Saturday and Sunday 13-14 January 2007

These feets - they’re made for walking…

and that’s just what we did as we ended up having a real walk-a-bout weekend.

Saturday we walked ALL around Regent’s Park, which was the first visit for both of us. Not sure if we covered the complete 166 hectares (410 acres for those of you doing the conversions), but we gave it a shot. As nice as it was, it will be much more so in the spring when the rose gardens are in full bloom. Maybe then I’ll drag Amy to Abbey Road to take my photo in “the crosswalk”.

Also had lunch in a quaint little pub, Dover Castle, tucked… no… make that HIDDEN in a maze of alleyways off the main streets. I swear if I didn't have a map we would have never found it.

Sunday we walked past Buckingham Palace, through St. James’ Park and Trafalgar Square on our way to The National Gallery taking in the classics of Monet and Van Gogh.

Anyone else surprised that I've actually started to appreciate the Impressionists??

Observation: As we made our way past Buckingham Palace we were “delayed” by the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Does that mean we are slowly getting assimilated to our surroundings and are now desensitised to the pomp and circumstance? Or are we becoming cynical olde people?

Thursday 11 January 2007

This post is dedicated to our good friend Sheryl M.

So tonight Amy and I went to the London Palladium, one of the premier West End theatres, to see Andrew Lloyd Webber’s production of The Sound of Music. Amy loved it, and I really enjoyed the technical aspects of watching the live stage effects.

How-EVER… The memories of the evening (for me) were of the people around us. We had decent seats in the Royal Circle and after locating them, settled in for the show. Amy sat to my left. On my right was one… how should I say… rather LARGE gentlemen. One of those guys that needs one and a half seats, and unfortunately for me I got to share that extra half seat with him. At least he wasn’t sweaty.

On Amy’s left was a lovely British lady that saw fit not only to sing along to most songs (poorly at that), but stomp her foot to the music. Yes… not tap, but stomp. If it were only that, it might have been tolerable, but it was her choice of “Eau de Edelweiss” perfume that made Amy’s night.

During the intermission, my seat buddy gets up allowing me to enjoy the full price of my ticket if only for a moment, so I spread out a bit. As Amy and I begin comparing notes on each other’s “neighbor” I couldn’t help but notice something. In the row in front of me, there was an elderly, frizzy haired lady bent over the back of her chair with her head right between my legs.

I couldn’t help but blurt out, “HEL-loo??”, as I sat upright giving her all the room she needed. Seems she lost her eyeglasses, but for the life of me I can’t figure out she thought they ended up BEHIND her and between my legs.

The General Public. Ya' gotta love 'em (or hate 'em).

I want it made perfectly clear that when Ray gave me the evil eye during "My Favorite Things" - it was NOT me singing! The show was great and I'll see it again with anyone who is interested.

Tuesday 9 January 2007

Did Amy mention to anyone that she "thinks" she saw Patrick Duffy getting into a car this past Sunday?? She "thinks"..... riiiiiiiight.

Also had my first experience with rail delays on my commute home yesterday with something about a broken down train in the Waddsworth Common area causing some scrambling on my part to get home.

All in all it wasn't too bad as I was only 60 minutes later than usual. (and STILL beat Amy home)

Saturday 5 January 2007

Pub Update:

I know everyone is wondering what new pubs I’ve ventured into lately. Here is a quick update.

14. The White Swan: Stopped in for a pre-rugby match drink (or two) at this traditional 17th century pub located on the river in Twickenham across from Eel Pie Island.
15. The Albany: Again in Twickenham. A refurbished “gastropub” where we had a post rugby match drink.
16. The Cardinal: Traditional pub built in the mid 1800’s near Westminster Cathedral where we attend Mass. Lots of dark wood panelling and etched mirrors.
17. Lamb and Flag: Considered the oldest pub in London established in the late 1600’s. Tucked away from the main streets, you have to wind your way down some side streets to find it.
18. Salisbury: Relatively “modern” pub built in 1892, but it was the mirrors and the cool Victorian light fixtures that was the best part of the interior.
19. Duke of York: Located next to the Victorian Palace Theatre and a five minute walk from our flat. Built in the 1820’s, it’s a nice place for dinner AFTER the Billy Elliot show starts.
20. The Shakespeare: Located across the street from Victoria Station and again just a five minute walk from the flat (ok… maybe 10 minutes). Need to go back one night and check out the attached piano bar.
21. The Sherlock Holmes: Not near Baker St. (actually between Embankment and Trafalgar Square), but a neat “themed” pub with a traditional feel. Constantly showing old Sherlock Holmes’ movies.

(from my 10 September entry)
1. The Iron Duke
2. The Albert
3. Ye Olde Watling
4. Princess of Wales
5. The Wig and Quill
6. Slug and Lettuce
7. The Elusive Camel
8. The Nightingale
9. The Crooked Surgeon
10. Rose and Crown
11. Hedgehog and Pheasant
12. Greencoat Boy
13. The Stonehenge Inn

21 December 2006 thru 01 January 2007

After a few hours delay at Gatwick Airport due to the icy fog, we were able to depart for Houston. We were quite lucky as Heathrow Airport was closed for several days. 13.5 hours on the plane – but we were headed home for Christmas! We had a great Christmas vacation visiting with the family. It was great to see everyone and we tried to fit in as much as possible during our 10 days in Texas. We missed some friends as this was a busy season for all, but we were able to catch up with quite a few (usually around a meal!). I think we each gained a bit of weight on this trip – but we just couldn’t pass up all of the home cooked meals and our favourite restaurants around town.

It really was a great trip and I’m so glad that we have the opportunity to get back home a few times per year, I know that there are many who are not so lucky. We’re blessed with wonderful families and friends. I hope that some are able to visit us during 2007!