Friday, October 5, 2001

Well, so much for waking up early and getting a head start on the day – the alarm never went off (yes, I set it!) but we didn’t wake up until 9:15. We rushed to get ready and ran downstairs to meet up with Poppy – that’s when it happened – Nathan’s first bloody nose! We came off the elevator and when he saw Poppy he went tearing across the lobby, fell and landed on his face! Poor little guy! We hailed a cab and made our way to Buckingham Palace where we watched the changing of the guard. I know it’s a tourist thing but it was awesome! There were two bands that marched around the palace and through the front gate. The actual ceremony with the changing of the guards takes place behind the main gates. The entire ceremony took about an hour – which included all the time I took trying to nudge my way to the front to take pictures!

After the ceremony we headed back to The Tower of London where we took an extensive tour. The towers were amazing! We saw the medieval palace, the bloody tower and then .. the crown jewels! I’ve never seen jewels so magnificent! They wouldn’t let us take pictures so you’ll just have to take my word for it when I say they were nothing short of spectacular!

Unfortunately, between yesterday and today Carter and Nathan were starting to wear down. So, we headed back to the hotel a little earlier than we normally would. All three boys passed out in the cab. When we got back to the hotel, mommy passed out too! 😉 Daddy, Poppy and one of Daddy’s friends met up at a local pub for a few drinks and then we all headed to a Pizzeria for a late dinner. After dinner Poppy and I went to a pub and relaxed while daddy put the boys down for bed. It was only fair since mommy put the boys to bed the last two nights! 😉

I still can’t believe that we are in London! It all feels so surreal. I’ve always wanted to travel abroad but never actually thought it would happen. If I were getting adequate sleep (still jet lagged) I would think that I’m dreaming!