Monday - May 13

Lots of catching up to do.

Saturday took us to the Churchill War Rooms. I think I talked about this someplace else, but just to keep things in order. This site is the actual place where Churchill and his advisors met and planned the various campaigns. I loved the maps with pushpins and yarn to mark advances of the fleet. I marveled at the small kitchen that served the meals for Churchill and his guests. You really felt as though you were there.

Probably a mistake, but we scheduled dinner at the newly reopened Savoy Grill. The space was gorgeous, but they sat us at a table that could have held 10 and there were only six of us so we had to do a little bit of yelling. We then went over to Top Hat, a revival, very traditional. The costumes were lovely and the dancing was quite good. I am tired of musicals so I have had my share for several years I think.

Sunday, Mother's Day, was sunny and brisk. Our plan was to go to the Victoria and Albert. The museum is overwhelming and somewhat difficult to navigate so we decided to join the guided tour just as it was beginning. A mistake--our guide kept her back to us much of the time, droned on about minute details that were not particularly interesting. We left and discovered the jewelry rooms (I would recommend); lots of grill work (moderately interesting), and the theatre section. Hooking up at the gift shop, we made our say to Harrods where we had a proper lunch in the tearoom on the second floor. The waiter asked us if we wanted separate checks--a first so far. Mary Jo and I decided we would shop a little and then walk to the Apsley House, home of the Duke of Wellington. We found our way and had a visit there using an audio guide. Four generations still live on the premises, including little Darcy, age 3 or so and set to inherit when his time comes. Although it was slightly raining we walked back to the hotel. Lots of walking for me and I was ready to get off my feet. We met in our usual spot in the 7th floor lounge. Dorothy and I stayed up there while others went to Royal Albert Hall. We chatted with some men who were private pilots. Lots of fine and some snacks.