While there, I was able to pick up a few much needed baking goods like bottled mincemeat and Horlicks to take home to round out my holiday menu. J introduced our family to some of his British colleagues who took time out of their schedules for a cup of tea and sandwiches. The kiddos always enjoy London and have become quite familiar with the city's offerings and often request specific outings.
It's not all fun and games as we usually throw some sort of culture their way :)
This trip we visited Hampton Court Palace, a royal residence most closely associated with Henry VIII.
Prior to visiting the palace, the kids read up on the Tudors and were amazed to discover that Henry beheaded two of his wives! We were lucky enough to participate in a tour in which period costumed guides informed us about 'recent' events, chiefly the King's upcoming nuptials to his sixth wife. After the tour concluded, Littlest saw the King and wished to meet him. Log was more reserved as he didn't wish to offend him and possibly lose his head :) Littlest was most pleased that the King offered to help find a suitable husband for her. After her audience ended, Littlest was puzzled that Henry didn't offer his own son to her.
The palace smells amazing as it's decorated with dried fruit and cinnamon sticks.
After touring the palace we explored the maze where the kiddos were successful in finding its heart without the aid of bits of marmalade sandwiches as Paddington Bear did.
We visited the Imperial War Museum which proved to be a gem! The exhibits were incredible, and my particular favorite was the Ministry of Food which showcased Britain's efforts to become self-sustaining during the war. J enjoyed the MI5 exhibit while the kiddos enjoyed the many interactive crafts.
Prior to leaving, we printed out a Harry Potter London Experience walking map and discovered 'Diagon Alley.'
The kiddos were treated to a showing of Wicked at the Apollo Theatre; they loved it! Littlest practiced toss tossing her hair for days afterward as a result. After the show, the kiddos had their first taste of Dim Sum, too!
We also spent a great deal of time in the Natural History Museum where I reached my surfeit of stuffed specimens. There was great concern that we wouldn't make it home on Christmas Eve because of a snowstorm. We were fortunately able to return home (though a bit later than expected) as there was still wrapping to do, and there would've been nothing to be had from Santa on Christmas morning (though Littlest said he could find her no matter where she was). After spending nearly 40 minutes digging our car out of ice and helping two others, we were on the road homeward bound.
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