These days, where ever I go, I am 'Madame' (pronounced "mod'm").
"Good morning, Madame."
"What would you like to order, Madame?"
"Here is your change, Madame."
"Thank you, Madame."
"Have a nice day, Madame."
I like it.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
Texas Embassy
Not far from Trafalgar Square, my friend, Marcia, and I came across the Texas Embassy to London. Who would have guessed ....
Regent's Park
This past weekend provided sunshine all day Saturday. ("Enjoy the atypical English weather," stated one Brit.) Carl and I went to Richmond for the day. We joined the crowds walking along the Thames, and took a 45-minute boat ride. We ate ice cream cones, while strolling by all the folks having lunch or tea outside on the lawn enjoying the sunshine.
On Sunday, the clouds and rain returned for part of the day, and we walked through Regent's Park to Marylebone High Street. There were lots of ducks and other large birds on the pond, along with the people riding in pedal boats. Trees were in bloom everywhere. The pictures above are of Regent's Park.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Center of the World
London is not only an interesting city - it also feels like it is in the center of the world.
When we are in New York, we can take a short airplane trip south to the Carolinas, Georgia or Florida.
When we are in London, we can take a short airplane trip south to Germany, France, Holland, or Belgium.
Today I was talking with other American women who have been living in London for several years. They have taken advantage of this central location and have travelled (not traveled) all over the world whilst (not while) they have been here. The women in this group, have been to Thailand, Russia, Morocco, India, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, China, Japan, ...... the list goes on and on. What is more, their KIDS have been to these places as well. It is such a rich experience for everyone.
It is not surprising when you meet Americans who came here in their youth, and decided to stay here and make this their permanent home.
When we are in New York, we can take a short airplane trip south to the Carolinas, Georgia or Florida.
When we are in London, we can take a short airplane trip south to Germany, France, Holland, or Belgium.
Today I was talking with other American women who have been living in London for several years. They have taken advantage of this central location and have travelled (not traveled) all over the world whilst (not while) they have been here. The women in this group, have been to Thailand, Russia, Morocco, India, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, China, Japan, ...... the list goes on and on. What is more, their KIDS have been to these places as well. It is such a rich experience for everyone.
It is not surprising when you meet Americans who came here in their youth, and decided to stay here and make this their permanent home.
Visiting Germany
I just spent a marvelous four days visiting my long-time friend, Isabel, in Germany. She and her husband currently live in a small town close to Nurenberg. While in Germany, I saw beautiful rolling green hills, the River Danube, and an ancient town on the Danube, Regensberg. The stores in Regensberg contained many household items that were new and interesting- kitchen utensils, dishes, storage devices, and novelty items -- and that were superior to any I have seen so far in London.
Isabel and I were focused on making cappuccino - and we both bought milk frothers that can turn straw (Carnation Nonfat Dry Milk) into gold (smooth, creamy, tasty, frothed milk that tastes and feels like light whipped cream) to put in our coffee. I would have bought myself a milk frother in London, but a quick search on the internet revealed that the product wasn't available in London (even though it is available in New York.) So I bought a special converter plug to put on the German frother so I can use it in London. Then, when I return to New York, I'll get one for home.
We both decided we like Germany for shopping. I'll just have to go back and visit Isabel often.
Isabel and I were focused on making cappuccino - and we both bought milk frothers that can turn straw (Carnation Nonfat Dry Milk) into gold (smooth, creamy, tasty, frothed milk that tastes and feels like light whipped cream) to put in our coffee. I would have bought myself a milk frother in London, but a quick search on the internet revealed that the product wasn't available in London (even though it is available in New York.) So I bought a special converter plug to put on the German frother so I can use it in London. Then, when I return to New York, I'll get one for home.
We both decided we like Germany for shopping. I'll just have to go back and visit Isabel often.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Little Venice
Not too far from Paddington Station in London is an area known as Little Venice, where houseboats line a canal in the space equivalent to two or three blocks long.
The canal runs between two parallel streets that are lined with apartments and houses.
In some places, the houseboats are docked two abreast.
Some of the houseboats have gardens of their own. Others have barbecue grills on the side, some have benches, some have bicycles.
It is all within a twenty-minute walk of our flat.
The canal runs between two parallel streets that are lined with apartments and houses.
In some places, the houseboats are docked two abreast.
Some of the houseboats have gardens of their own. Others have barbecue grills on the side, some have benches, some have bicycles.
It is all within a twenty-minute walk of our flat.
Thomson Reuters Inc. - by Carl
April 17th saw the official launch of Thomson Reuters Inc. (TRI), the acquisition of Reuters by The Thomson Corporation for almost $18 billion and the reason I was able to talk a few people into having Sue and me based in
The 17th was actually the culmination of an 11 month journey and is the beginning of a 3 year plan to integrate and grow the combined business. I’m sorry if this sounds like a bit of “corporate speak” but it’s the best way I know to discuss this stuff.
The last 11 months have been filled with seeking regulatory approval from governments and securities agencies across two continents, the formation of task forces across both companies charged with the responsibility of figuring out how to bring the companies together (locations, products, sales forces, technology, human resource policies and processes, brand, etc.), determining how much it’s going to cost to integrate the businesses (about $500mm) and how much we’re going to save per year when it’s all said and done ($650mm per year). And by the way, some of us have got to do all of this while still doing our “day jobs” which mean running the businesses and growing revenues and profits. Well we did it and the 17th saw the launch of the new company.
The launch was something special and was global in nature with events taking place in NYC,
In NYC Tom Glocer, the CEO of TRI, rang the opening bell of the New York Stock Exchange; the outside of the exchange was draped with a large banner with the company name and new brand identification/logo on display in public for the first time. Simultaneous with this all the large TV screens that dominate Times Square in mid town Manhattan were “seized” by TRI about 20 seconds before the official close of the deal, and a New Years style countdown globe started to fall, and when it reached the bottom the new name and logo of the company was displayed on the 5 screens that dominate Times Square. Later in the day Tom hosted a reception for 3,000 TRI employees at
In London TRI was able to commandeer the London Stock Exchange where, for the first time in the history of that institution, a company was able to decorate the exterior of the building with its brand information. Later that day a reception was held in
A similar event took place in
So we come to the end of the first 5 weeks on a very high note. We’re having lots of fun, there is lots going on in my corporate life, and we’re looking ahead to more exciting times over the next 15 months. And, in particular, we are looking forward to seeing family and friends -- so get busy figuring out the when you’ll be here.
I have cut and pasted a web link that I think you can open that provides more details of the launch of the new company. It’s at the bottom of the message, below, from Tom Glocer. Hopefully it will work and you will find it interesting.
All the Best, Carl
Dear Colleagues:
As of today, we are the leading provider of intelligent information to businesses and professionals around the world. I have waited a long time for this day. I’d like to tell you why I am so excited about the business we are creating together, discuss how I want us to work together and ask you for your help in making this happen.
Thomson Reuters has a very exciting mission. Our business is to provide intelligent information to the world’s businesses and professionals, giving our customers competitive advantage. I believe this purpose not only defines and differentiates us, but frames a compelling and valuable strategy for us to pursue.
We have a bright and profitable future because we are living at the dawn of the information economy -- one that will thrive on intelligent information. If you think back to the 20th century, it was the century of the carbon economy. Among its winners were the car companies, airplane manufacturers and especially the energy companies. Oil was the lifeblood of the carbon economy. The 21st century will be the era of the information economy. Information -- intelligent information -- will be its currency.
So what exactly is intelligent information? It is certainly insightful, well written text -- just the right legal authority on point from West or a piercing analysis of the credit bubble from Reuters News. But it is not just flat, passive data. Intelligent information also conveys the dynamic nature of the content. It carries metadata, it is self-describing and self-organizing. It is action oriented. Intelligent information from Thomson Reuters enables our customers to make better decisions faster. It gives them the knowledge to act.
I believe the demand for intelligent information will grow for many years to come. Our customers are professionals and the world is professionalizing. The number of professionals worldwide is growing at an unprecedented rate, especially in emerging markets in Asia, the Middle East and
Moreover, physical industries are transforming into information businesses. We've seen this in financial markets as currencies went off the gold standard and started trading electronically. A current example is the pharmaceutical industry. When I visited the headquarters of our Scientific business in
So, Thomson Reuters can provide intelligent information and there will be a growing demand for it. But why will our customers pay for it? Because they are professionals, and professionals will pay for just the right information, intelligent information, delivered at just the right time and place in their workflow. Actually they will pay you to give them less information, but precisely the right information.
It’s like weather. None of us would pay for tomorrow's weather forecast. We can get it free from many sources online, on television, in the papers. But if you are a major insurer, you will pay for a long-range hurricane forecast if it helps you gain advantage in your underwriting business.
That's why professionals in the businesses we serve will pay for intelligent information. And that is also why the time is right for us to step up to a leadership position in the information economy. We have all the right assets, a strong balance sheet and great people.
To get there, we need to all work together. We will do that as one company. Not two divisions, not several strategic business units, but one company.
I have three priorities for our company. The first is to deliver a flawless integration. There is no greater value to be delivered than bringing our best talent, technology and assets together to better serve our customers and achieve profitable growth for us. This will be a core focus for me, for Devin Wenig, who is running our Markets Division (where the heaviest integration work will take place), and for our other Executive Committee colleagues. The second priority is globalization, a huge opportunity for us. We have very strong businesses in North America, but over the coming years greater growth will come from emerging markets such as
Third, the whole must be greater than the sum of the parts. If we view our strategic business units as stand-alone businesses or vertical pillars, they are very impressive. But we can accomplish even more by leveraging capabilities across businesses and focusing on a few carefully chosen horizontal capabilities such as the world’s best professional search, news and content management platforms. A great example of this is the way our Tax & Accounting business is already leveraging the Novus platform, developed by our North American Legal business, in their industry-leading Checkpoint product.
That is where I will focus in the months ahead. Here’s what I ask of you: first, stay focused on driving the business and serving your customers -- but be open to change and new ideas that can help you be even more successful at doing this. Second, help me promote and celebrate the values that Thomson and Reuters already stand for and that will be hallmarks of our new company. Those values are:
- Customers are the heart of everything we do
- Business is global
- People make the difference
- Performance matters.
In addition to these values, we are committed to upholding the Reuters Trust Principles of integrity, independence, freedom from bias and leadership in news and information.
Today we are one company, Thomson Reuters. An incredible opportunity awaits us – the chance to be the leader of the information economy. I have absolutely no doubt that we can deliver on this vision.
Regards,
Tom Glocer
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American Primary Elections
A month ago, when we were in a department store purchasing new items for our apartment, one of the cashiers, discovering that I was an American, said to me, "So who are you voting for?" When I told her I was voting for Obama, she raised her hands and cheered!
Sue, the relocation specialist who helped us find an apartment, had strong opinions about her choice of candidates for the Democratic primary. She commented that the Clintons were so 'old news' now. Having a woman for president - Hillary - wasn't that interesting any more. She was more intrigued by Obama.
It was surprising to see how much coverage the American primary elections received here in the news. I thought the British news wouldn't report much about the elections until both the Democratic and Republican candidates had been selected and it was the national race. In fact, I figured they wouldn't even know that much about the primaries at all, but I was wrong.
When I commented on that to one of the porters in my building, he told me that everyone was very interested in all aspects of the American election process "because the U.S. is so powerful." He said that the British feel they will be affected by the new American president, whoever it turns out to be, so they follow the election closely.
It was a poignant moment for me to be told by a citizen of this country that he has such an interest in my country's election because he feels that his life will also be influenced by my country's election, because my country is so powerful.
Disclaimer: Any preferences for candidates or for political parties that have been expressed in this entry do not in any way reflect the opinions or preferences of the senior male member of this family.
Sue, the relocation specialist who helped us find an apartment, had strong opinions about her choice of candidates for the Democratic primary. She commented that the Clintons were so 'old news' now. Having a woman for president - Hillary - wasn't that interesting any more. She was more intrigued by Obama.
It was surprising to see how much coverage the American primary elections received here in the news. I thought the British news wouldn't report much about the elections until both the Democratic and Republican candidates had been selected and it was the national race. In fact, I figured they wouldn't even know that much about the primaries at all, but I was wrong.
When I commented on that to one of the porters in my building, he told me that everyone was very interested in all aspects of the American election process "because the U.S. is so powerful." He said that the British feel they will be affected by the new American president, whoever it turns out to be, so they follow the election closely.
It was a poignant moment for me to be told by a citizen of this country that he has such an interest in my country's election because he feels that his life will also be influenced by my country's election, because my country is so powerful.
Disclaimer: Any preferences for candidates or for political parties that have been expressed in this entry do not in any way reflect the opinions or preferences of the senior male member of this family.
Doubledecker buses
No tale of London would be complete without pictures of the wonderful doubledecker buses that we use all the time and that take us everywhere.
These pictures were taken from the top deck of one them.
(It's just a shame that they drive on the wrong side of the road.)
These pictures were taken from the top deck of one them.
(It's just a shame that they drive on the wrong side of the road.)
Images from Borough Market
This Saturday morning, Carl and I went over to Borough Market, by the London Bridge. They sell all kinds of foods. Here are just a few images...
These are meat pies
Ostrich eggs fresh from the farm
A sign hanging from the roof quoting one of Ben Franklin's lesser known sayings
A peek at some pastries
Lots of fresh produce
A pile - as high as a person - of chocolate brownies
Bangers are sausages
And, of course, flowers for the centerpiece
What is not pictured here are the tables and tables filled with olives, cheeses, meats, nuts, salads, and any kind of food you can think of.
These are meat pies
Ostrich eggs fresh from the farm
A sign hanging from the roof quoting one of Ben Franklin's lesser known sayings
A peek at some pastries
Lots of fresh produce
A pile - as high as a person - of chocolate brownies
Bangers are sausages
And, of course, flowers for the centerpiece
What is not pictured here are the tables and tables filled with olives, cheeses, meats, nuts, salads, and any kind of food you can think of.
Politeness
It is my opinion that British people are very polite. I am amazed whenever I hear the announcer on the tube (subway) apologize over the public speakers when a train is late and explain why. In any crowded area, people are generally careful to avoid bumping into each other, and if it should happen by accident, they are quick to say they're sorry. I have many times seen young men and women get up from their seats on buses and trains to offer them to older people who are standing. Yesterday, when I was riding a bus, I watched a young guy in his twenties very carefully and gently help an old man with a cane to his feet and actually hold the man's arm while guiding him down the step - off the bus onto the sidewalk. I love to see this kind of warm, caring interaction among strangers in this town. These are everyday occurrences, and I find it to be heartwarming.
I think it is possible that a Brit could actually dislike you - and you would not even become aware of it because his/her behavior toward you would be so polite as a natural way of behaving.
When I stated my opinion about the politeness of the British with some of the American women I met earlier this week - they disagreed with me. Two women had witnessed examples of outright aggressive behavior -- both incidents resulting directly from someone trying to cut a line (queue). Once was in the post office (which always has a very long queue) when the people on the line displayed their displeasure with one woman who went ahead of them. ("But I'm in a hurry," was her lame excuse.) Everyone on the line started yelling out and swearing at her - and she was shamed into going to the back of the queue. The second example took place at McDonalds (of course!) when one parent cut a line, and another mother got very upset with her. The two argued - again using very foul language. The argument escalated into a physical event in which one mother threw a Happy Meal at the other. The police were called and their presence finally calmed things down. However, the police did ask if anyone wanted to press assault charges. (The woman who told me the story said she had stood there - stunned - throughout the altercation, holding onto her kid - and holding his ears so he couldn't hear the foul language that was flying around.)
Fortunately, I have never witnessed any of this behavior. And I can guarantee you that I will never attempt to cut in on any lines while I'm here in London.
I think it is possible that a Brit could actually dislike you - and you would not even become aware of it because his/her behavior toward you would be so polite as a natural way of behaving.
When I stated my opinion about the politeness of the British with some of the American women I met earlier this week - they disagreed with me. Two women had witnessed examples of outright aggressive behavior -- both incidents resulting directly from someone trying to cut a line (queue). Once was in the post office (which always has a very long queue) when the people on the line displayed their displeasure with one woman who went ahead of them. ("But I'm in a hurry," was her lame excuse.) Everyone on the line started yelling out and swearing at her - and she was shamed into going to the back of the queue. The second example took place at McDonalds (of course!) when one parent cut a line, and another mother got very upset with her. The two argued - again using very foul language. The argument escalated into a physical event in which one mother threw a Happy Meal at the other. The police were called and their presence finally calmed things down. However, the police did ask if anyone wanted to press assault charges. (The woman who told me the story said she had stood there - stunned - throughout the altercation, holding onto her kid - and holding his ears so he couldn't hear the foul language that was flying around.)
Fortunately, I have never witnessed any of this behavior. And I can guarantee you that I will never attempt to cut in on any lines while I'm here in London.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Meeting Women
Today I had lunch with the daughter of some friends in Weston. Julie has been living in St. John's Wood for several years, and is finally returning with her family to the U.S. this June. She took me to lunch, and gave me tips on local businesses and resources. She also has made an introduction to her friend who started a group called Empty Nesters. Carl and I look forward to meeting members of that group -- others in the area who are in the same stage of life.
In the meantime, this morning I volunteered to help send out the St. John's Wood Women's Club newsletter, and in doing so, I met another new member - Marcia. She and her husband, who live in Westchester County, have just moved back from Sydney, Australia. They live within a few blocks of us, and her husband works in the same neighborhood with Carl. Marcia and I spent the afternoon together, walking for several miles, then stopping for tea and scones and jam. Tomorrow evening she and her husband and Carl and I are going out to dinner together.
In the meantime, this morning I volunteered to help send out the St. John's Wood Women's Club newsletter, and in doing so, I met another new member - Marcia. She and her husband, who live in Westchester County, have just moved back from Sydney, Australia. They live within a few blocks of us, and her husband works in the same neighborhood with Carl. Marcia and I spent the afternoon together, walking for several miles, then stopping for tea and scones and jam. Tomorrow evening she and her husband and Carl and I are going out to dinner together.
Art Appreciation Course
I have begun my course in "Isms of Twentieth Century Art." Each week, the class will learn about an "ism" in art, beginning with Fauvism, Impressionism, and including Cubism and many more.
The instructor teaches several art courses, including art history, and gives tours at the National Gallery. He has a wide knowledge base and is a very interesting lecturer. Also, there are some very interesting British women who are taking this course. (Many of the students took his course last semester, and liked the teacher so much they have returned this semester for more.) This is going to be both educational and fun.
The instructor teaches several art courses, including art history, and gives tours at the National Gallery. He has a wide knowledge base and is a very interesting lecturer. Also, there are some very interesting British women who are taking this course. (Many of the students took his course last semester, and liked the teacher so much they have returned this semester for more.) This is going to be both educational and fun.
Covent Garden
These are pictures of some street performers we saw at Covent Garden on a Tuesday afternoon.
This is a very interesting place that will be fun to investigate further on a future date.
This is a very interesting place that will be fun to investigate further on a future date.
Interesting Street Sign
I spotted this sign while walking down the street, and later discovered it was just what I had imagined it was. An accident had taken place at that location, on that date, and this sign was asking anyone who had witnessed it to please call the number and give their information to the police.
One woman told me that she was familiar with that accident; in fact, a young woman had stepped off the curb and had been hit by a bus.
Apparently, signs like this are common around town. Another woman mentioned that she was parking her car on a street at 4:30pm one day. When she got out of the car, she saw a sign similar to this one that announced there had been a sexual assault at that location the previous day at 4:45pm. She looked at her watch and seriously considered getting in the car and parking somewhere else instead.
Famous People in St. John's Wood
Today I learned there are a couple of famous people living here in St. John's Wood.
Paul McCartney is the biggest name. I have been told that he is spotted fairly regularly on the High Street, especially at the Starbucks. Kate Moss has also been seen in the neighborhood, as well as Jude Law.
Paul McCartney is the biggest name. I have been told that he is spotted fairly regularly on the High Street, especially at the Starbucks. Kate Moss has also been seen in the neighborhood, as well as Jude Law.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Saturday, April 12, 2008
First Visitor
My friend, Helena, was visiting for the week - and it was so much fun to have her here.
She accompanied me to the first meeting I attended of the St. John's Wood Women's Club. We drank tea and listened to a speaker from Kew Gardens. Most of the members of the Women's Club are Americans or Canadians; in fact, they describe themselves as an ex-pat group. Everyone was very friendly - and they plan lots of activities. I paid my dues and became a member. I exchanged telephone numbers with another woman from California who has been here only two weeks.
(By the way, Kew Gardens is an impressive institution that is doing great work; it is creating a database identifying all the plant species on the planet, and it has begun creating and maintaining a seed bank of all the plants.)
During the week, Helena and I spent lots of time shopping, with Helena helping me to select decorative accessories for the flat - pictures, pottery, housewares, etc. We went to Ikea, to Harrods, to every department store on Oxford Street, and to the gift shops at three museums, and we came away with lots of good items and /or good ideas.
(On our way walking from the underground stop to Ikea, we met a woman from Toronto who had just moved here last week. She lives only one stop away on the underground, so she and I exchanged phone numbers also.)
It has been a wonderful whirlwind week (and our apartment is looking more like someone lives here).
She accompanied me to the first meeting I attended of the St. John's Wood Women's Club. We drank tea and listened to a speaker from Kew Gardens. Most of the members of the Women's Club are Americans or Canadians; in fact, they describe themselves as an ex-pat group. Everyone was very friendly - and they plan lots of activities. I paid my dues and became a member. I exchanged telephone numbers with another woman from California who has been here only two weeks.
(By the way, Kew Gardens is an impressive institution that is doing great work; it is creating a database identifying all the plant species on the planet, and it has begun creating and maintaining a seed bank of all the plants.)
During the week, Helena and I spent lots of time shopping, with Helena helping me to select decorative accessories for the flat - pictures, pottery, housewares, etc. We went to Ikea, to Harrods, to every department store on Oxford Street, and to the gift shops at three museums, and we came away with lots of good items and /or good ideas.
(On our way walking from the underground stop to Ikea, we met a woman from Toronto who had just moved here last week. She lives only one stop away on the underground, so she and I exchanged phone numbers also.)
It has been a wonderful whirlwind week (and our apartment is looking more like someone lives here).
London Weather
Today was a fairly typical day in London for weather. The day began bright and sunshiney. Later, clouds developed in the sky and it turned quite dark. The next thing we knew, it was pouring down rain - like a flash storm with wind and pounding rain; at one point there was even some hail bouncing off the sidewalk. Everyone on the street ran for cover - under store awnings, bus stop rooftops, and in stores and pubs. In ten minutes, the rain subsided, and in fifteen minutes it had stopped completely; the sky was blue again. We all put away our umbrellas, lowered our hoods, straightened out our damp hairdos, and continued along our way, avoiding the puddles as we walked.
The sun continued for an hour or so, until another dark raincloud appeared in the area. This time, we were lucky to be under the tent roof of a market when the rain storm came crashing down into the tent top and the wind blew anything near the open sides. We all waited ten minutes for it to once again subside before we felt safe leaving the dry market area. Soon, the sun was shining again. At one point the sun was shining on one block, and it was still raining on the next block.
This scenario can occur several times during a day. If we are lucky, we miss getting rained on - but we always wear rain jackets and carry umbrellas, just in case.
I would never plan a special event like a wedding in London at an outdoor venue. The weather is way too unpredictable and extreme.
When the television weatherman shows the weather map for England, it looks unlike any I have ever seen. There are small individual clouds scattered all over the area -- sort of like polka dots or chicken pox.
The picture below captures the beautiful rainbow we saw from our window this afternoon -- that's one of the benefits when it rains while the sun is shining.
The sun continued for an hour or so, until another dark raincloud appeared in the area. This time, we were lucky to be under the tent roof of a market when the rain storm came crashing down into the tent top and the wind blew anything near the open sides. We all waited ten minutes for it to once again subside before we felt safe leaving the dry market area. Soon, the sun was shining again. At one point the sun was shining on one block, and it was still raining on the next block.
This scenario can occur several times during a day. If we are lucky, we miss getting rained on - but we always wear rain jackets and carry umbrellas, just in case.
I would never plan a special event like a wedding in London at an outdoor venue. The weather is way too unpredictable and extreme.
When the television weatherman shows the weather map for England, it looks unlike any I have ever seen. There are small individual clouds scattered all over the area -- sort of like polka dots or chicken pox.
The picture below captures the beautiful rainbow we saw from our window this afternoon -- that's one of the benefits when it rains while the sun is shining.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
A challenge to our enthusiasm
Last Sunday provided a challenge to our enthusiasm for this London adventure.
The day began with snow, which dashed our hopes of a warm, sunny, springlike day. True, it didn't rain - and the park looked beautiful from our windows - but we saw it as a step backwards in our progress toward warm, welcoming weather here in April. (The weather has much more of an impact on us because we walk and 'tube' or 'bus' everywhere.)
We were hoping to set up the broadband service for our computers. We had received the box with the router - and we were excited about getting it set up on the new desk that had just been delivered. We had already received two letters from Sky, the service provider, 1) confirming that we had ordered the broadband service- and that they would, in fact, deliver it, and 2) giving us the required key numbers. (Up to now, we have been hitchhiking on a neighborhood wireless network that does not require a password.)
We would soon discover, however, that two letters from Sky were just the beginning. We had two more communications to go. Both arrived this week - an email and a phone message - and we STILL don't have the service yet. They keep giving us one more step to take. (This is one example of the 'process' that Carl refers to as taking priority over product in the workplace.)
Anyway, while we were putting the computer and the router in place, we realized that the phone cord included in our package from Sky was too short -- we needed a longer one. St. John's Wood High Street does not have a hardware/housewares store, but we optimistically decided to ask in some of the smaller stores if they carried the cords we needed. Nobody did, of course.
It was at that point, we realized we would have to get on a bus and ride up to Finchley Road to buy this simple cord to install our new router.
It was then that we both agreed we REALLY missed our car - and said to each other, "It's time to go home!"
Of course, we took the bus and purchased our cord, then we stopped off and had dinner before we returned home. And the day ended on a positive note.
PS I received yet another message yesterday from Sky telling me that today is our 'Activation Day.' Perhaps this is it.......
The day began with snow, which dashed our hopes of a warm, sunny, springlike day. True, it didn't rain - and the park looked beautiful from our windows - but we saw it as a step backwards in our progress toward warm, welcoming weather here in April. (The weather has much more of an impact on us because we walk and 'tube' or 'bus' everywhere.)
We were hoping to set up the broadband service for our computers. We had received the box with the router - and we were excited about getting it set up on the new desk that had just been delivered. We had already received two letters from Sky, the service provider, 1) confirming that we had ordered the broadband service- and that they would, in fact, deliver it, and 2) giving us the required key numbers. (Up to now, we have been hitchhiking on a neighborhood wireless network that does not require a password.)
We would soon discover, however, that two letters from Sky were just the beginning. We had two more communications to go. Both arrived this week - an email and a phone message - and we STILL don't have the service yet. They keep giving us one more step to take. (This is one example of the 'process' that Carl refers to as taking priority over product in the workplace.)
Anyway, while we were putting the computer and the router in place, we realized that the phone cord included in our package from Sky was too short -- we needed a longer one. St. John's Wood High Street does not have a hardware/housewares store, but we optimistically decided to ask in some of the smaller stores if they carried the cords we needed. Nobody did, of course.
It was at that point, we realized we would have to get on a bus and ride up to Finchley Road to buy this simple cord to install our new router.
It was then that we both agreed we REALLY missed our car - and said to each other, "It's time to go home!"
Of course, we took the bus and purchased our cord, then we stopped off and had dinner before we returned home. And the day ended on a positive note.
PS I received yet another message yesterday from Sky telling me that today is our 'Activation Day.' Perhaps this is it.......
Notting Hill Movie Book Shop
Apparently, when the movie Notting Hill was filmed, they used a real book shop in the neighborhood as the setting for Hugh Grant's book shop in the movie. This is it: The Travel Book Shop in Notting Hill.
Portobello Market
Last Saturday we spent several hours at the famous Portobello Market. What an exciting time!
The roads were crammed with people. The market occupied at least ten to twelve blocks. At first, the streets were filled with sellers of clothing, jewelry, antiques, and artwork. Then there were booths selling fresh fruits and vegetables. Then there were booths selling prepared foods. Paella was one of the big hits. I had churros with chocolate dripped over them, while Carl had a sandwich. The final blocks were filled with flea market items.
These pictures give you just a taste of what the market was like.
Snowy morning
Last weekend we awoke to a snowy morning - even though it is April. These pictures show the view from our front windows. In three hours, the sun came out and it all disappeared.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Viewed from a bus
Viewed from the top of a double decker bus on a Saturday afternoon: Two pairs of young women were walking down the busy street in different directions away from the same crowded intersection.
The first two women walking toward the bus were dressed similarly. Each was wearing black form- fitting pants with a short black jacket (showing off their slim figures) and boots with spiked heels and pointed toes. They both had long blond hair.
The two women walking together in the opposite direction away from the bus were also wearing black -- two long black burkas covering each of them from head to toe.
The first two women walking toward the bus were dressed similarly. Each was wearing black form- fitting pants with a short black jacket (showing off their slim figures) and boots with spiked heels and pointed toes. They both had long blond hair.
The two women walking together in the opposite direction away from the bus were also wearing black -- two long black burkas covering each of them from head to toe.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Tourists for the day
On Friday, Carl and I were tourists. We spent the day on a bus going to see Bath , the Salisbury Cathedral, and Stonehenge . I took pictures to share.
Early in the morning, while walking to the tube station, we ran into the Queen's horses on a training trip through the streets of St. John's Wood.
The zig zag markings on the street tell you that there is no parking in that area.
Early in the morning, while walking to the tube station, we ran into the Queen's horses on a training trip through the streets of St. John's Wood.
Below is a picture of the crosswalk at the top of St. John's Wood High Street. The cars actually do stop if anyone is crossing the street here. You can see the message written on the street actually telling you which way to look for oncoming cars.
The following is a shot of the St John's Wood High Street - very early in the morning before anyone is out yet. It is usually bustling with cars and people.
Here's a look at our tube station that is about four blocks from our flat. You can see that there is a Beatles memorabilia shop just outside the station. Abbey Road is only a short distance away - where the Beatles once made their recordings.
We took the tube to Victoria Station to get to our tour bus. Here are some shots of the inside of Victoria Station during the morning rush.
After I took this picture, that police officer turned around and looked at me. Somehow I got the feeling he didn't like the idea of my taking pictures there.
We got on our tour bus and left the Victoria Coach Station at about 9am, driving off into the English countryside. It was a beautiful ride.
Our first stop was in the town of Bath, where we saw the ancient Roman baths that had been created around a natural hot springs. The baths looked a little green today - but they were said to be sparkling and clear in ancient times, when people came from all over for their healing effects.
Our second stop was in Salisbury to see the cathedral. I have a real love for the beauty of ancient cathedrals. It is impossible to convey that beauty in a simple photograph. Even with many photos, it is not the same as actually being inside and being surrounded by the art and magnificence of the structure itself. I hope these pictures suggest some of that to you.
I took only one picture outside - and that was of the carvings over the main entrance. Again, the camera could capture only a small part of it.
These are representations of saints. The carvings are beautiful.
This cathedral was built in only 36 years; that was quite an extraordinary feat to accomplish in such a short period of time.
There are no pictures of Stonehenge. Carl and I took the audio tape machines with us, and walked all around the stones - out in the middle of the field, with the wind blowing. There are many theories as to why the stones are there, and what they represented to the people at the time - but no one really knows for sure.
Currently, there is another investigatory dig occurring at Stonehenge. There have been reports of it on the news in the evening. There is hope that new technologies might offer additional information. The newest theory to come out of this latest research is that Stonehenge was a place of healing.
The tour bus brought us back to London at 7pm, and we topped off the day with a delicious dinner at a local Indian restaurant.
We got on our tour bus and left the Victoria Coach Station at about 9am, driving off into the English countryside. It was a beautiful ride.
Our first stop was in the town of Bath, where we saw the ancient Roman baths that had been created around a natural hot springs. The baths looked a little green today - but they were said to be sparkling and clear in ancient times, when people came from all over for their healing effects.
Our second stop was in Salisbury to see the cathedral. I have a real love for the beauty of ancient cathedrals. It is impossible to convey that beauty in a simple photograph. Even with many photos, it is not the same as actually being inside and being surrounded by the art and magnificence of the structure itself. I hope these pictures suggest some of that to you.
I took only one picture outside - and that was of the carvings over the main entrance. Again, the camera could capture only a small part of it.
These are representations of saints. The carvings are beautiful.
This cathedral was built in only 36 years; that was quite an extraordinary feat to accomplish in such a short period of time.
There are no pictures of Stonehenge. Carl and I took the audio tape machines with us, and walked all around the stones - out in the middle of the field, with the wind blowing. There are many theories as to why the stones are there, and what they represented to the people at the time - but no one really knows for sure.
Currently, there is another investigatory dig occurring at Stonehenge. There have been reports of it on the news in the evening. There is hope that new technologies might offer additional information. The newest theory to come out of this latest research is that Stonehenge was a place of healing.
The tour bus brought us back to London at 7pm, and we topped off the day with a delicious dinner at a local Indian restaurant.
