Soooo... Every weekend for the last three weeks, I have dove into the markets here. Markets in the UK (and in Europe, for that matter) are quite common... Some are year-round, some as seasonal. The Christmas markets are very sweet, REALLY crowded, and smell like pine, mulled cider, and cookies. It makes me feel the Christmas spirit for the first time in a few years. One of the many great things about the markets here is that most of the stalls and shops are individually owned, the goods are made by locals, and much of what you find are one of a kind. AND, though prices are posted, for some of the goods, it is not uncommon to barter a bit (within reason, of course). Each of the markets I've been to has taken me to different parts of London, so by virtue of the journey, I am getting to see more and more of the city. I expect to be a ready and useful tour guide by Spring - for those pondering a visit :).
A few weeks ago, I made it to SoHo - the slightly seedy (in some blocks, but you get that anywhere in a big city), vibrant theatre and queer part of the city (thank you Leah and Rachel for your expertise and fabulous company). I went there on a Saturday night, and liked it so much I got up early the next morning and went back. It was a fascinating contrast, walking the streets on a boisterous Saturday night, and a quiet Sunday morning. I can't tell you how I love to be able to do things like that - get up and go explore new and different places.
The following weekend, I woke on a Sunday morning, opened the curtains in the living room (reception room, in Brit-speak), and it was like a friggin Sherlock Holmes novel.. The fog was so thick, I could barely see across the street - and it stayed like that ALL DAY. I loved it!! It was so eery and weird. I'm sure those dealing with travel found it less novel, but wow - another first for me.
Thanksgiving was, well, Un-Thanksgiving. For the first time in my life, I worked that day, and it was another regular day to anyone not from the US. In fact people asked me the origin of the Holiday. I felt embarrassed to tell a half-ass version of the Pilgrims, etc. as my recollection of the story I was told as a kid is a little distant. That night it was the annual lighting of the tree and Christmas lights in Chiswick. I met a few friends for the occasion, had my first mince-pie, so there was a celebration of sorts. I was grateful to get home and be included in the family blessing of Thanksgiving dinner in NH via Skype. Though I have missed loved ones very much since I left, that was the first day I missed home.
The last couple of weeks at work have been incredibly busy. The days fly by, and I find myself with a little too much on my plate. It is preparation for exams, which for me is always a very busy time. I am also preparing for Emily and the boys arrival. They will be here in 7 and 1/2 days. I am so very excited to be reunited, and for the next and fuller part of this amazing journey to begin. I am VERY nervous about the dogs traveling - I know they will be fine, and that people fly with their dogs all the time, I just hope they aren't too scared, as it will be a long, weird day for them. All the parks, smells, and new experiences that await them here - not to mention a local butcher down the street who can cut me a couple of fresh bones for them ;). For those who follow this blog, please say a prayer for safe travel for Emily, Charlie, and Shadow sometime between 1:30pm Sat. Dec 10 to 6:00am Sun - Dec 11. I am grateful that after they arrive, I have just a few short days of work, then 2 weeks with Em and the boys to explore, celebrate, and land. As much as I have loved my independent journey here so far, it has felt incomplete without them. Soon :)
Well, below are a few pics of the recent adventures... Should I be delayed again in posting, I wish you all a wonderful abundant holiday! May you feel loved, comforted, and blessed!
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