Welcome to our London blog!
When our friend Shirley asked us if we would like to house-sit for her this winter, we leaped at the opportunity. (Of course, we first made sure that our much-loved cat, Pogo, could be cared for by our kitty-sitter and friend, Jane, "the Mary Poppins of Cats.") And that's how we found ourselves on a quintessential London square for nearly three months.
Shirley's flat looks out on a leafy park, green even in winter.
Kevin and I can watch the activity in the park while we eat lunch and quaff a British ale. And although the park looks deserted in the photo, it is normally buzzing with activity. Parents look on as their children race around the paths and,when it's warm enough, retired folks sit on the benches and chat. In summer, we're told, it's busy with picnics and sun-seekers. (I'm not revealing the name of the square to protect our friend's privacy--that's priv'-a-see, of course, not prive'-a-see, as we Americans pronounce it.)
As you can see, we could hardly be in a better spot. The actor Hugh Grant once lived on this square, and I imagine he could have had his pick of locations.
The one caveat I would make about this blog is that you will not find a strong focus on tourist activities. Having lived in England years ago and having visited frequently, we covered most of the tourist sights years ago.
Our goal for this stay is to explore lesser-known locations, to take advantage of cultural opportunities, to mix with locals, and to spend more time in the places we have loved. And yes, we intend to savor our favorite British foods: fish 'n chips, bangers and mash, pork-and-plum pie, full English breakfasts, and sticky toffee pudding. Finally, living so close to the Thames, we plan to try our hand at mudlarking. (And if you don't know what that is, stay tuned.)
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