“Traveling through life with curiosity rather than judgment is how one finds the magic in each moment.” – Erin Chatters
I thought I’d just get this out there first thing – I promise this will be the last restroom (WC) picture I post – well, this year anyway😉
We had a day and a half to hit the London highlights so of course, Big Ben was a must see!Refurbished a few years ago it is more spectacular than ever.And if you’ve ever wondered what’s at the tippity top of this clock tower – here you go!Westminster Abbey The London EyeDating from the 16th century, the Old Curiosity Shop survived not only the Great Fire of London in 1666, but the devastation of the Blitz.In many of the areas in Central London we saw more bikes than cars. Taxes for vehicles entering the city has helped bikers and walkers alike.
Good advice for all.
We walked along the Regents Canal on this beautiful fall-like day.While watching this “trash barge” (shout out to Cece) float by the engineer on board called out to us, “It’s just a load of rubbage!” – too funny!Great place to walk or run but we were in no hurry.Our walk ended at the Camden Locks.
Since the 1890s this was the Russell Hotel – but some yahoos have taken it over and felt compelled to rename it – can you tell we aren’t thrilled with the change?
Across from the Russell Hotel is beautiful Russell Square.
At first site I thought this was a grapevine arbor but on closer inspection I realized that trees are being trained to form the arch.
I loved this little building in the corner of the park.
Pumpkin soup was on the menu and it smelled delightful.
You probably know us well enough by now to realize we love parks. This is Green Park and it was certainly green this day!A bit about the following monument.It’s a bit difficult to see but the two sides of the monument have a sheet of water running down them. Both quiet and peaceful.Couldn’t help but think of our own Canadian friends and neighbors ❤️The entrance to Green Park is not too shabby either.The coat of arms of six Canadian Provinces were included in the Canada Gate in 1906.
These two coat of arms on one pillar were added later and the ninth on another pillar. I’m thinking the one with the mountains is Alberta – a little help Nathan?
The autumn crocus was in full bloom.Pretty, right?The flower gardens were lush, even this late in the season. The woman on the left looks like she’s dressed to complement this gorgeous bed of posies!Leicester Square incudes this fountain with Shakespeareatop. The square was extensively refurbished and remodeled for the 2012 Summer Olympics.At first we didn’t like the “fence” that encircles the park but now that we’ve seen it a couple of times, we’re good with it. (I’m sure London is relieved that we approve!) 😂Trafalgar Square was also on our hit list – newest change is that the lions are off limits. People used to clamor all over the four gigantic cats! We love that they’ve been left in peace to enjoy their surroundings.Well, yes if you’re going to be at Paddington Station you absolutely have to find Paddington Bear and give him some love.
I never got tired of hearing this announcement. Say it with a British accent…see how great that sounds? Plus, we’re so much safer now☺️
On our way to the train station, heading to the airport, we spotted this sculpture. Difficult lighting early in the morning but the photographer did his best to capture it.Powerful stuff.
Zoom in to give it a read.
Tavistock Square, Bloomsbury – I thought a good way to finish this post was with this sculpture of Gandhi.
Murphys on the Move 
Looks like a wonderful time in London. Yes, the coat of arms with the mountains is Alberta.
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Thanks xo
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Nice end to a beautiful vacation. Thanks for sharing. LorettaSpread Love ❤️
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that is indeed the Alberta crest on our coat of arms … very well done!!!
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