Other

---

I feel privileged being able to travel to England twice. It turned out better than my wildest dreams! Being a county girl I did not expect to ever cross the big pond from America to England. United Kingdom brings to mind visions of Kings and Queens, discovering your favorite fairytale in every day life! Our daughter, her husband, and two young sons were sent to Lakenheath Air Force Base, near Cambridge, England. Previous to their transfer they were at Eglin, in Florida, just an hour’s drive from our home. We got spoiled, getting together regularly plus enjoying special gatherings for Holidays. When they left for England we realized it would be a wonderful opportunity for them; but also knew we would miss them so very much. I experienced “Granny withdrawal!”


To our amazement some friends bought us round trip airfare to England! We took a tourist’s step back into history. Naturally, they have the latest advancements; but all of that is cradled in a civilization, which has experienced trials, hardships, and wars, yet they endured. Visually, England holds bragging rights to the brightest green grass we ever saw! The picture perfect pastures with grazing sheep would thrill the heart of any artist or photographer. It goes without saying that any of us from America have a real adjustment to the driving on the left side of the roads, which in the small towns and villages are very narrow. There are few large cars or trucks; they would be too difficult to maneuver, especially on the “roundabouts.” They are like mazes. I don't think I could ever get the knack of that!


During our first visit we did a lot of site seeing. We visited during the winter season, and found the weather mostly cold and windy. It seems like their climate is much like The New England States, here in America. Their summers are so mild, that 80* temperatures are considered a heat wave! We saw much during our ten day visit. A day trip by train into London to see many of the famous attractions created a high point during our stay. Stops included: Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Parliament, and Westminster Cathedral. The shopping district is much like any large American city. It seems funny what we sometimes remember. As we were boarding or leaving the trains an announcement aired over loud speakers. They wanted to prevent people from tripping when stepping down from the train level to the pavement, or vice versa. “Mind the Gap!” Though we share a common language, communication is sometimes difficult. We use so much slang. They speak the “Queens English”, very prim and proper! Our grandsons, now teenagers both have thick British accents, having lived in England for eleven years. Their family transferred back to America.


Other favorite sites visited include a castle and the White Cliffs of Dover. A hidden tunnel is located at the side of the castle. The tunnel once served as a secure virtual city under ground, used during World War II. Bury St. Edmond's Abby is made up of beautiful sprawling gardens, and archaeological ruins. The churches and cathedrals are majestic, as their builders used breathtaking design! Small villages with their open air street markets and small shops hold a special charm. I guess all tourists remember foods! The fish and chips, crumpets, scones, and biscuits (which are a type of butter cookie) were each wonderful! I can't leave out the tea! I savored the taste, unlike any I drank back home.


The knowledge that Dad spent time in London during World War II made the trip more meaningful. He often shared his Army experiences. He proudly told of once serving in the Military Police, and being part of the Honor Guard for then General Eisenhower. Oh, so many cherished memories, and then returning for a second visit in a couple of years! Do you remember receiving post cards from friends during their vacations? The message often was a simple “Wish You Were Here!”....The Brits warmly pass on that invitation!

---

PLEASE ENCOURAGE AUTHOR BELOW LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE