Christmas in London

Christmas in London is one full month of parties, more parties, and merriment all around.  I spent the month (other than Strasbourg and a few trips to the Hague) basically in London which was a nice diversion from the constant on the go. 

 

 

Highlight of the Christmas party season was the social group party at work - me and friend N were having a good time.  I can't even remember the joke, but I'm sure it was funny at the time.

 I went to see White Christmas, because, of course you have to do that.

Friend S and I went for Christmas Afternoon Tea at Brown's hotel.  It was amazing - I've never been to such a fancy place - definitely once in a lifetime.

Other things....

1.  I saw The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime.  Best show I've seen in London...I would pay to see it again (and probably will).  The sets were the best I've ever seen.  If you haven't read the book, you should.  And then see the show.
2.  I volunteered for Crisis Uk which had a day shelter set up about a mile from my house.  Crisis UK provides warm places for rough sleepers to spend the day, get 3 meals and advice on just about anything.  My first shift was on Christmas Eve.  I served tea and coffee, handed out clothes and played the bouncer role (a bit of a joke, but I did).  My second shift on Saturday after Christmas I washed dishes most of the time (Trinity cafeteria style).  I met some really nice people and would love to do it again.  The guests were all very interesting, but the volunteers were the best part.  I'm so glad I did it.
3.  We had a team party in the Hague at a great Italian restaurant - wonderful conversation!
4.  I braved Oxford street 2 days before Christmas.  Yes, I am crazy, but I did find what I was looking for.
5.  I made it home for New Year's and got to see all the family and T and S.  So great!!

Very cold fishing on the dike. 

Take the girl out of Texas, but can't take Texas out of the girl....

Dad was the winner - worth it?

We went for Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo.  I really want to go back next time to see the new African exhibit when it's not lit up.  The giraffes and the mountain lions were the best part...and the lights were really pretty.


I really wish I had written 3 months ago - I could have described a lot more from December.  I won't wait that long again!