The next morning I was no longer solo in London. After having breakfast at the hotel buffet, which I had to pay thirteen pounds for because it wasn’t included, I received a text from Trisha saying she was on her way (for real this time). I posted myself outside on the stoop to wait and write in my journal. I was so happy to see her I could’ve danced, but I didn’t. You’re welcome, London.

After she rested a bit, we headed to the Tube to go to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. I knew little to nothing about the Tower of London, which is the fortress begun by William the Conqueror in 1078 and expanded throughout the next monarchies. The original tower, the White Tower, held prisoners until they died or were executed, such as Sir Walter Raleigh and Anne Boleyn. There is a marker on the grounds where she was beheaded.

One remarkable thing to me was King Henry VIII’s original armor–his and his horse’s! Polished and preserved like it was brand new, along with other suits of armor. Another building contains the Crown Jewels, which include not only the crowns of kings and queens on display, but also sceptres, mantles, and even Royal dishes.

After crossing the River Thames via the Tower Bridge, we headed for Borough Market. We had to cross a terraced park, which involved stepping up on three retaining walls about a foot or fifteen inches tall, too much for these short legs. I asked Trisha to give me a hand, but for some reason we let go when I stepped up on the third wall, and I fell on my backside! Fall #2, yes, folks, I did it again. But it was soft grass, so I was good.

On to the market, where there were many food vendors selling all kinds of tempting and delicious food. We went for goat milk ice cream first, because it was quite warm, then tried various cheeses and breads, purchasing some to enjoy later.

For dinner we wanted fish and chips from Churchill Arms pub, but they only serve Thai food–what?? Anyway, we had a drink, enjoyed the pub atmosphere with all the chamber pots hanging from the ceiling, and headed out. Trisha spotted a Vapiano’s restaurant, which she knew from her time in Germany, and we had Italian food there for dinner.

Stay tuned for Buckingham Palace crowds, the Royal Guard, and the original Hard Rock Cafe…

XOXO