Aristocrats or Alley Cats?

We found ourselves once again in London which brings no complaints for either of us. As always, we took in plenty of theater with our favorite "Les Mis","We Will Rock You" by the rock band Queen, the traditional "Wizard of Oz", and one of our top choices for the year, "Singin’ in the Rain". In this last show, the stage filled with so much water from the "rain" that the tap steps and dance kicks left audience members in the first few rows a bit soggy.



This trip also allowed us to check off a “bucket list” point which we have wanted to do for some time. We got to visit Parliament and sit in on debates at both the House of Lords as well as the House of Commons. Phrases like “the noble Lord makes a valid point” or “my honorable friend’s words are true” sprinkled the entire discussions whether a member agreed or disagreed. As much entertainment as these speeches provided, our attention frequently leapt to the soaring arches of the ceilings, the colorful stained glass windows, and the golden throne of the Queen. A truly breathtaking room!



Although we have visited Hampton Court Palace numerous times, it is a palace that captures our hearts and imaginations with its distinctive Tudor, Stuart, and Georgian building sections. So, we took the short train and spent an afternoon walking in the footsteps of both the nobility and those who served them. Then to continue the royal theme, we popped in to the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace to see the horses and carriages used to carry the royal family around the streets of London during special events and ceremonies.



To top of all of the regal sights and majestic events, “my noble friends” joined me for a spot of tea and splendid conversation as we caught up on each other’s lives and shared the latest news. I certainly left London feeling a bit more aristocratic than when I arrived with a new spring in my step.