A HOLIDAY CHECK-IN

This post finds me out of the country, off my schedule, out of my routine.

I’m enjoying myself immensely.

For the past week I’ve spent time with a life-long friend and her family in a place where they drive on the opposite side of the road from us. Despite speaking the same language we have our differences here as well. These folks say larder not pantry, cloakroom not coat room, flat not apartment, pub not bar. It’s a charming place, really. Here, fries are chips, chips are crisps, cookies are biscuits, and people go on holiday rather than vacation.

Upon arrival at my friend’s house, after an uneventful overnight flight, I made a piece of sourdough toast and cup of coffee.

Is it strange to feel so at home outside the U.S?

I’ve said before how lucky I consider myself to have several friends whose comradeship I’ve enjoyed since middle school days. Our shared history is a textured tapestry that hangs across the decades. That must be why I feel so at home ensconced at my friend’s house in a foreign country.

Here’s a few photos from the week I’ve had enjoying tea, visiting gardens and historic sites.

Top to Bottom: Standing in a field of Camassia at Wisley RHS; Afternoon Tea, and perhaps my favorite from the kitchen at Ham House-Good Meals Ought To Begin With Hunger

I’m heading further east tomorrow to the easternmost capital in Western Europe where I’ll be visiting another friend. Good meals fo indeed begin with hunger but there’s nothing like filling up on friendship.

Until next time!