I’m now on my way to Hampton Court after having breakfast with two American women from Seattle. Their names were Gwen and Kay and they are sisters. They like gardens also and Kay has a dog who likes Gwen better because she lets her sleep on the bed with her when she has to dog sit. I miss my Saucy.
Spent the day at the palace going on two guided tours (guides were in costume) and one taped tour (too slow). Ran through other areas and visited gardens for about one hour before going into the maze. Found the center easily enough but on the way out, had to go back on myself (backtrack) several times. I could have been out sooner but thought there was a separate exit and I should do it right. Turns out, there is only one way in and out. Aargh! At least I didn’t have to use the emergency only gate. Anyway, I didn’t take many photos (none allowed indoors, like most places) because the palace is too big and ostentatious to capture in a 50mm lens. Also, there was a lot of scaffolding which would not have looked good. The Privy Garden was being replanted and there were quite a few carts sitting around and gardeners planting. I think I only took two photos, total, even though it has been a beautiful, sunny, warm day.
After leaving Hampton Court, I rode the train to Victoria station and walked to Westminster Cathedral to pick up a schedule. A mass was given for Princess Diana this morning. No more this week for her though.
I’m writing this while on a bench in St. James Park listening to the ducks and other wildfowl. It’s very pleasant and the scent of the flowers take over the smell of traffic.
After leaving Westminster Cathedral, I walked to Westminster Abbey - good angle for photos this time of day because it’s facing west now. Then to the Clock Tower with Big Ben, 10 Downing Street, (where the guards didn’t even know anything about Bill Clinton’s visit, or at least weren’t telling), through Horse Guards, and into the Park where I am now, heading toward Buckingham Palace.
Nothing was going on at the palace so I continued on towards Wellington Arch. Apparently, he had help when he defeated Napoleon at Waterloo. The statue also has four other figures representing the following: 42nd Royal Highlanders (in kilts), 23rd Royal Welsh Fusiliers, 6th Inniskilling Dragoons, and 1st Guards. Charlotte Bronte, being a fan of the Duke of Wellington (1769-1852), would be proud of the arch and statue.
Stopped at "Tootsie’s" pub across from my B&B. The butterscotch milkshake was okay (could have been thicker) and the potato skins were excellent. They tasted like potato, not grease, like ours.
I’m getting used to eating meals alone without feeling too out of place. Also, any panic attack (from being alone) goes away quickly. Yesterday was definitely the worst. I hope I don’t have anymore.
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