Stratford-upon-Avon

Hi all

It's been a slow month for me. My return to Vancouver was pending, but not yet near enough to really start planning for, but at the same time it seemed pointless to start new things here in England because I would be leaving so soon.

Our departure is close now though, and I am re-energized. It really helped to head to Stratford on Monday; just being in a new place for two days was a great break.

Stratford is so cute, you almost can't stand it! The picture above is of our hotel, and there are LOTS of buildings that look very similar all over town. There are references to Shakespeare and his plays everywhere--you know, plaques on buildings saying "shakespeare's daughter's 2nd cousin's babysitter lived here". Well, not quite, but you get the idea!

Of course we got turned around on the unmarked roads driving up there and had a heated discussion about who should be figuring out the directions. Then in town we got so turned around trying to find the sights, and were getting irritable again, so we gave up and went to some pub built in 1596 for a pint and from that point on everything was better. We saw The Merchant of Venice that night. We thought it was a great production--minimal set but fascinating use of props and colour and music.

The next day we were able to walk along the Avon and then Mary rowed us for an hour among the swans--it was lovely! We took our time coming home and really felt refreshed once we returned to Peasedown.

So, ten more days. We'll post at least once more here to say goodbye and then will be seeing many of you soon, in person!

best,

Karen