Sister + Birthday + England

 

I arrived in London and was greeted by my sister, Darlaina, neice, Ainsley and the Queen! We toured Buckingham palace and afterwards strolled along the grounds, ate ice cream cones and by the time we reached the road it began rain cats and dogs! Of course, we just had to be stranded with no where to run for cover. By the time it ended, we were completely drenched, from wet hair to squishy wet feet! I guess England wanted to give me a proper welcome with the rain.

Buckingham Palace

 The Queen's Store: Fortnum and Mason had me in awe! I gawked over all the displays and wanted to purchase it all or at least take pictures of it all! We enjoyed a cup of yummy hot cocoa in their cafe on such a cold rainy day, as well.

 

After spending the day in London we took the train to Castle Rising, where my sister lives in the most charming brick house, the "Castle Farmhouse" built in the 1700's. The Queen has residences in this village and often comes to visit. My sister has seen the Queen at her daughters school and has seen Kate shopping at the local grocery store.

View from my bedroom window.

We admired this old church and my favorite part was the stones in the grass for parking.

 

We picked up Ashby and Alva from their private school. How incredibly charming!!

 

One evening we drove to Hunstanton, a village along the shore. We strolled around, played in the park and ate the most delicious fish n chip and mushy peas.

 

 Across the street from her home is Castle Ruins that were built in 1138 by lord William d'Albini for his wife.  In the 14th century it became the luxurious residence of Queen Isabella, widow and alleged murdress of her husband, Edward II.  Their son later murdered her lover.  Quite the soap-opera!  We toured this fascinating castle that is surrounded by a large mote. Pictures don't do justice. 

 Lunch at the tea rooms, followed by a long walk through the village and through pathways along Lord and Lady Howard's farm.  It was one of my favorite days spent with my sister, walking, admiring and chatting. We were even lucky to run into a man training sheep dogs and watched for quite a while. 

 We visited Drove Apple Orchards where we taste tested all their apple juices and learned that there is no such thing as non-alcoholic apple cider in England!?

 

Wells-next-the-Sea: There we strolled along the beach, admired the cute beach huts and the pink sunset.

 Shopping at Norwich Market and the beautiful Department store, Jarrolds.

 

I celebrated my 34th birthday at my sisters! This was a gift from Ben to me for my birthday, a wonderful getaway, while he cared for our kids. I am so grateful! The Streeters were so gracious to have me in their home, feed me, tour me around and sing happy birthday to me. 

 L-R: Ashby, Ainsley, Brit, Arden, Alva and Darlaina

 

 I am still dreaming of Stiffkey, the little shop, tea room and the most delicious almond croissant I ever did eat.

 

We toured the gardens and inside of Holkham Hall. It was absolutely stunning and transported me back in time, reminding me of Downton Abbey! I learned so much about the history and farming that took place there since the 1600's. 

 

 Darlaina and I stayed a couple nights in London while we toured the city and went to the Harry Potter Cursed Child Show. Even though I haven't read all the books, I enjoyed the show so much. I look forward to reading the books to my kids and taking them to this show one day.

 Liberty London is the most amazing store ever. I was drooling over everything.

food, food and more food!