I spoke too soon about the tube. This morning, I left early for Windsor which meant it was rush hour. It was very crowded and even though there wasn’t room for one more, three more would push on to the car. At least it was only for three stops. Another thing I've noticed about these trains is that, compared to our trains, they don't seem to be as sturdy. I noticed it more with the Dockland's Light Railway trains.When I got the breakfast this morning, Annabel had a two liter bottle of Pepsi on the table for me. It was warm. She really is not a soda person. Anyway, I simply said "thank you" and changed the subject. After she left, I took the bottle to my room to hide in a bag. I can’t possibly drink this much at one time. Most of is going to be wasted. Oh, I’m getting a headache.
On the train (in the first class section), I asked for "cold" Pepsi or Coke. Take a guess at what I got - warm. Some people just don’t get it.
I’m happy to be on my way to finally see the great Windsor Castle. I hope it’s nothing like Hampton Court. I’m thinking back to that book in the B&B at Haworth about visiting other peoples' houses. Now I’m on my way to visit someone else’s house.
The interior of Windsor Castle is much more impressive that Hampton Court but the public is only allowed to go into one wing (a very large one) plus the chapel. I was most impressed with St. George’s Hall, The Grand Reception Room and especially the Waterloo Chamber. All of the portraits are of people who had something to do with Wellington’s victory at Waterloo. It must really look beautiful when it’s full of people for the Annual reception on June 15.
The changing of the guards was no big deal here but took about 40 minutes (far too long). While in the Chapel, I inquired where Queen Victoria’s grave is and was told that it is only open three days a year (later I learned that it is open three days in May and three in August), closed to the public all other times. However, you guessed it, today is my lucky day. It is open and only a 15 minute walk down to Frogmore House and gardens. The line to get in was surprisingly only 20 minutes long and well worth it. I especially liked the statue of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert with her in Scottish dress. The sunlight was coming through the window in the dark mausoleum onto the statue, illuminating it perfectly. It looked magical. I just could not have timed this visit better. Unfortunately, no photos were allowed inside the mausoleum.
Now, I’m sitting on the lawn outside of the house (still at Frogmore), while two swans and their babies are drifting by on the lake. It really is lovely here. I’ve decided not to go inside the house because the line is just too long and the day too nice to be indoors.
I forgot to mention what I liked about St. George’s Hall. On the ceiling, there are hundreds of colorfully painted shields, each one different. There were several that were gray so I asked why they were gray. Apparently, if a Knight of the Garter (each shield represents a different Knight) has done something to dissatisfy the sovereign, his/her shield is painted gray and title taken away as well (I think). The guide pointed out that most gray shields are from Henry VIII’s reign, as he was difficult to please. This particular guide was also helpful when I asked him about the other rooms.
Stopped to watch a Cricket match on the way out of the park. It looks a little like baseball, only much less athletic. The pitcher guy throws the ball in a really funny way. In the town of Windsor, I bought a framed decoupage of cats at Westminster Bridge for £14. I also liked the Buckingham Palace cats but cannot afford to buy both. I know Mary is going to be very upset that I didn't get one for her and will end up giving her this one. They had some beautiful things - all made in Britain.