One week ago today, the British monarchy had a little addition to the line: George Alexander Louis.
Everybody is talking about it.....kinda - It's all over the radio, magazines, and newspapers. Thousands of people even lined up in front of Buckingham Palace to see the formal birth announcement that they placed outside the main gate. In my circles, however, I may have spent a total of 5 minutes discussing this topic.
While I don't have much to say on the subject, the biggest bit of news that has stemmed from the birth, in my own opinion, is the boycott of OK! Magazine over a Weight Loss Article, suggesting tips to Kate Middleton on how she can best get back to her pre-baby weight. Kate is already perceived as a champion among new "mums" here, so this article, written in poor taste, had masses of citizens and celebrities alike rushing to her defense.
While most of the articles I see currently focus on either William or Kate, it will be interesting to see how our digital media culture will influence the baby's upbringing, especially when he gets a bit older. I hope for his sake that he will get to experience a bit of "normalcy" amongst all the madness...whatever that means.
Monday, July 29, 2013
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
My Very Own British Tan...
The UK has been experiencing a heat wave the past few weeks. Thankfully, the temperatures are finally dipping below 30 degrees Celsius (about 86 degrees Fahrenheit).
Two weekends ago, near the beginning of the heat wave, two of my friends and I decided to go to a beach in Kent. We all had a lovely time drinking Corona, swimming in the sea, and chatting away. It was a fantastic day, but the memories and photographs were not all that I left with. I came away with my very own British tan (aka my back was as RED as a lobster).
I guess this is what happens when your skin never sees the light of day in a very long time (and yes, I DID put on sunscreen). It is 11 days later and my skin is still red to the touch. It was one of the worst sunburns I have ever had.
...but, believe it or not, when I showed a co-worker less than 48 hours later from the original burn, she said she thought, from how I described it, that it would have looked worse. Short of my back literally being on fire, I don't know how that would have been possible.
Two weekends ago, near the beginning of the heat wave, two of my friends and I decided to go to a beach in Kent. We all had a lovely time drinking Corona, swimming in the sea, and chatting away. It was a fantastic day, but the memories and photographs were not all that I left with. I came away with my very own British tan (aka my back was as RED as a lobster).
I guess this is what happens when your skin never sees the light of day in a very long time (and yes, I DID put on sunscreen). It is 11 days later and my skin is still red to the touch. It was one of the worst sunburns I have ever had.
...but, believe it or not, when I showed a co-worker less than 48 hours later from the original burn, she said she thought, from how I described it, that it would have looked worse. Short of my back literally being on fire, I don't know how that would have been possible.
Friday, July 12, 2013
Royal Henley Regatta
Every year, masses of people descend upon the small town of Henley-on-Thames for the Henley Royal Regatta. As a former collegiate rower myself, I was quite excited when several girls from work decided to go, inviting me to partake of this annual English tradition with them.
Henley is more of a social gathering, similar to Wimbledon or Royal Ascot, where men and women dress in their very best to watch sport and chat about important things like the weather and one's health.
Five of us ladies dressed up for the races on Saturday and took the train to Henley...along with the masses. Waiting on the platform for our last train was a crazy experience. When we first arrived on the platform, there were only a few people, but the numbers soon grew like rabbits. I still don't know how we all managed to get ON said train once it finally arrived!
Once we finally arrived in Henley and departed the train, we walked to the course and found our way inside one of the many promotional food/drink tents. It was there, under the sunshine, that we chatted away, drinking pitchers of Pimm's. Later, we found our way further down the river in another tent, listening to some live music, drinking a bit more, and eating some food.
Before we knew it, the sun had set and we had to catch the last train back home. Crazy! I went to a regatta to see some rowing and I only saw one race the entire day (which I am sure was one more than most people who were there)! I am not at all disappointed though. I was in the company of some great people, soaking in the sunshine, and exploring a new part of England. All in all....a definite success!
Henley is more of a social gathering, similar to Wimbledon or Royal Ascot, where men and women dress in their very best to watch sport and chat about important things like the weather and one's health.
Five of us ladies dressed up for the races on Saturday and took the train to Henley...along with the masses. Waiting on the platform for our last train was a crazy experience. When we first arrived on the platform, there were only a few people, but the numbers soon grew like rabbits. I still don't know how we all managed to get ON said train once it finally arrived!
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| On the train platform waiting to go to Henley. There were just as many people to my right! |
Before we knew it, the sun had set and we had to catch the last train back home. Crazy! I went to a regatta to see some rowing and I only saw one race the entire day (which I am sure was one more than most people who were there)! I am not at all disappointed though. I was in the company of some great people, soaking in the sunshine, and exploring a new part of England. All in all....a definite success!
Friday, June 28, 2013
Part 2 - Running Around New Places In Town (or the city, rather) - The London Eye
SUNDAY:
Sunday morning started off rather lazily. After sleeping in and going out for brunch in Richmond, Alex, Elizabeth, and I set out into the city to do the only thing that we had really planned to do that day...the London Eye.
Amazingly enough, I had not yet been on the London Eye by myself as I knew it was something that would be great to experience with other first-timers. After waiting in a long queue, we eventually reached the front of the line and made our way into our pod/carriage. The views are incredible. I was excited about how far I could see (luckily, it was not too hazy or rainy), and the realization of how far I had been walking from place to place while living there was slightly mind-blowing. It is such a different perspective when you can see the layout of the city.
Although not the cheapest Ferris-wheel on the planet, it is definitely worth it. I hope to go again during the summer as they have extended hours on Friday nights for a few months. I am sure the skyline is just as impressive, if not more so, all lit up.
After we finished our circular-sky-view of the city, we walked around Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, and I took them briefly into the British Museum so they could see the Rosetta Stone and Elgin Marbles in person before we headed back to my flat.
Before our return, we stopped by an amazing Indian restaurant around the corner from my place (they are featured in several food/restaurant guides) to grab some take-away so we could eat in the comfort of our PJs, lounging about, slumber-party style. Munching on Naan and giggling away like school children, it was clear we did not want the day to end.
As I drove them to the airport the following morning before work, it just reassured me of how incredibly luck I am. I have absolutely wonderful family and friends, and I am glad I was able to see some of them already while living here in London. Kinda makes a girl feel REAL special....and I am nothing but thankful.
Sunday morning started off rather lazily. After sleeping in and going out for brunch in Richmond, Alex, Elizabeth, and I set out into the city to do the only thing that we had really planned to do that day...the London Eye.
Amazingly enough, I had not yet been on the London Eye by myself as I knew it was something that would be great to experience with other first-timers. After waiting in a long queue, we eventually reached the front of the line and made our way into our pod/carriage. The views are incredible. I was excited about how far I could see (luckily, it was not too hazy or rainy), and the realization of how far I had been walking from place to place while living there was slightly mind-blowing. It is such a different perspective when you can see the layout of the city.
Although not the cheapest Ferris-wheel on the planet, it is definitely worth it. I hope to go again during the summer as they have extended hours on Friday nights for a few months. I am sure the skyline is just as impressive, if not more so, all lit up.
After we finished our circular-sky-view of the city, we walked around Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, and I took them briefly into the British Museum so they could see the Rosetta Stone and Elgin Marbles in person before we headed back to my flat.
Before our return, we stopped by an amazing Indian restaurant around the corner from my place (they are featured in several food/restaurant guides) to grab some take-away so we could eat in the comfort of our PJs, lounging about, slumber-party style. Munching on Naan and giggling away like school children, it was clear we did not want the day to end.
As I drove them to the airport the following morning before work, it just reassured me of how incredibly luck I am. I have absolutely wonderful family and friends, and I am glad I was able to see some of them already while living here in London. Kinda makes a girl feel REAL special....and I am nothing but thankful.
Part 1 - Running Around New Places In Town (or the city, rather) - Portobello Road
Last weekend, I was fortunate enough to have several visits with family and friends. My cousins, Vicki and Angie, were in the city, midway through one of their many exploring-the-world trips as they are known to do (as anyone who receives a Christmas card from them are well aware). I had managed to sneak away from work at a somewhat reasonable hour on the Wednesday before to have dinner with them at Jamie's Italian in Covent Garden. It was there that we worked out a mini plan for Saturday.
SATURDAY:
After a later-than-planned start to the morning, we hopped on the tube and traveled over to Notting Hill to check out/walk the famous Portobello Road market. Busiest on Saturdays, it is the World's largest antiques market, but they sell other things too (like fruit and veg, and clothing).
It is a mile long and a feast for the eyes, with candy-colored buildings, street performers, varied wares, and thousands of interesting characters to look at...all the while, the classic Disney song randomly playing your head (or at least in mine):
After we finished walking the road and managed to find our way back to a tube station, we headed over to Harrods for a quick lunch before we said our goodbyes. It was then that I jumped on a train and headed over to King's Cross to pick up my friend Alex and her sister Elizabeth, who were scheduled to arrive soon. They were taking the train down from Edinburgh and had already been in Europe for two weeks. They decided to swing by for a brief day and a half as I was in London and...why not come visit!
When I greeted them as they exited the train platform, I asked how they were feeling and what they wanted to do. I mentioned that my friends Claire and Emma were in a pub not too far from where we were and that we could go meet them. We ended up going, luggage in tow (thankfully not too much), and spent the next bit of time all hanging out, old friends and new, chatting with each other and the many stag parties that were happening that night.
After several hours, we said goodbye to Claire and Emma and I brought Alex and Elizabeth back to my flat (where they would be staying) so we could get some much needed rest before exploring a bit on Sunday...
SATURDAY:
After a later-than-planned start to the morning, we hopped on the tube and traveled over to Notting Hill to check out/walk the famous Portobello Road market. Busiest on Saturdays, it is the World's largest antiques market, but they sell other things too (like fruit and veg, and clothing).
It is a mile long and a feast for the eyes, with candy-colored buildings, street performers, varied wares, and thousands of interesting characters to look at...all the while, the classic Disney song randomly playing your head (or at least in mine):
After we finished walking the road and managed to find our way back to a tube station, we headed over to Harrods for a quick lunch before we said our goodbyes. It was then that I jumped on a train and headed over to King's Cross to pick up my friend Alex and her sister Elizabeth, who were scheduled to arrive soon. They were taking the train down from Edinburgh and had already been in Europe for two weeks. They decided to swing by for a brief day and a half as I was in London and...why not come visit!
When I greeted them as they exited the train platform, I asked how they were feeling and what they wanted to do. I mentioned that my friends Claire and Emma were in a pub not too far from where we were and that we could go meet them. We ended up going, luggage in tow (thankfully not too much), and spent the next bit of time all hanging out, old friends and new, chatting with each other and the many stag parties that were happening that night.
After several hours, we said goodbye to Claire and Emma and I brought Alex and Elizabeth back to my flat (where they would be staying) so we could get some much needed rest before exploring a bit on Sunday...
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Doing What The Brits Do
Last Saturday, the weather forecast was nothing but sunshine. Because of that, a few of my friends from work decided we should have a picnic in Hyde Park.
Saturday afternoon, we entered one of the close grocery stores, picked up some food and (several) bottles of wine, and walked to the park. Eventually, we found a grassy spot among the masses. We soaked in the rays, chatted away, and played games for 6 hours before we decided to leave. It was the same time the sun did as well.
It is fairly safe to say that this goes up towards the top of the list of me performing typical British behavior. With so much gloomy weather in the UK, the Brits definitely know how to appreciate a good day when it comes. Being here, I have a growing appreciation for good weather and I feel the need to do this more often when I get back to always-sunny California. More time relaxing in the sunshine is good...with SPF, of course!!!
Saturday afternoon, we entered one of the close grocery stores, picked up some food and (several) bottles of wine, and walked to the park. Eventually, we found a grassy spot among the masses. We soaked in the rays, chatted away, and played games for 6 hours before we decided to leave. It was the same time the sun did as well.
It is fairly safe to say that this goes up towards the top of the list of me performing typical British behavior. With so much gloomy weather in the UK, the Brits definitely know how to appreciate a good day when it comes. Being here, I have a growing appreciation for good weather and I feel the need to do this more often when I get back to always-sunny California. More time relaxing in the sunshine is good...with SPF, of course!!!
Monday, June 3, 2013
Blogging and Blenheim
Weekend before last, I went to Blenheim Palace...not that you would know as I have been slacking lately in terms of making new blog entries. Forcing myself back to writing after a long days work, I will finally tell you all the stately home has to offer.
Blenheim Palace is about 20 minutes North of Oxford, and a little less than an hour and a half outside of London. I decided to make the drive up on a BEAUTIFUL sunny day, dragging one of my friends, Claire, along for the ride. Situated next to a lake in the middle of acres of green, Blenheim is definitely a country getaway. The building reminded me a bit of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, although not as impressive of a structure (but still breathtakingly beautiful). Where Blenheim more than makes up for its lack of palatial and stately rooms is in its greenery: The ground's gardens and space.
On this lovely, sunny day, people were soaking in the sunshine everywhere outside. Claire and I could not wait to join them. Behind the palace, a game of Cricket was being played (although I had NO idea what was going on), and everyone seemed to be enjoying the day.
Claire and I had a mini, impromptu picnic in the front lawn and watched the happenings; parents playing with their children, people catching up on their latest novel, and even a loving couple, sitting oblivious to the pheasant that was creeping up beside them. I found it a bit shocking that, although there were many people out and about, it still seemed rather intimate. There is just THAT much space.
After eating our meal, we wandered the grounds a bit more, making our way to the top hill that overlooks the palace. As we reached the peak, we admired the view for a few minutes as sheep ran around, bleating. Eventually, we walked back down towards the palace and back to the car, glad we had found the perfect setting to enjoy a simply beautiful day.
Blenheim Palace is about 20 minutes North of Oxford, and a little less than an hour and a half outside of London. I decided to make the drive up on a BEAUTIFUL sunny day, dragging one of my friends, Claire, along for the ride. Situated next to a lake in the middle of acres of green, Blenheim is definitely a country getaway. The building reminded me a bit of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, although not as impressive of a structure (but still breathtakingly beautiful). Where Blenheim more than makes up for its lack of palatial and stately rooms is in its greenery: The ground's gardens and space.
On this lovely, sunny day, people were soaking in the sunshine everywhere outside. Claire and I could not wait to join them. Behind the palace, a game of Cricket was being played (although I had NO idea what was going on), and everyone seemed to be enjoying the day.
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| A game of cricket, as people relax behind Blenheim Palace. |
Claire and I had a mini, impromptu picnic in the front lawn and watched the happenings; parents playing with their children, people catching up on their latest novel, and even a loving couple, sitting oblivious to the pheasant that was creeping up beside them. I found it a bit shocking that, although there were many people out and about, it still seemed rather intimate. There is just THAT much space.
 |
| Ninja Pheasant |
After eating our meal, we wandered the grounds a bit more, making our way to the top hill that overlooks the palace. As we reached the peak, we admired the view for a few minutes as sheep ran around, bleating. Eventually, we walked back down towards the palace and back to the car, glad we had found the perfect setting to enjoy a simply beautiful day.
 |
| Sheep on the hill, looking back towards Blenheim Palace. |
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