Christmasing in London
Because this was going to be my first Christmas away from home and here in Spain most things close down for the holidays, I decided to take advantage of cheap flights that Europe is known for and get out of dodge for awhile. My friend and colleague, Katharine, lives and works in Southhall, London and would also be spending her first Christmas away from home. Everything fell into place perfectly.
Before I left, Santiago turned on its lights! It was gorgeous.
We also had a team Christmas party. There was enough food to feed an army!
Christmas Eve we spent at the German market on the south bank near the Eye and Big Ben
We then went to Hyde Park where they had set up “Winter Wonderland”! I just love Christmas so much!
Christmas morning Katharine and I exchanged gifts. We both gave each other a scarf 🙂 We also, in good English fashion, wore our crowns from the poppers.
I then got to skype with my entire family while they opened presents. Best family skype photo ever!
For Christmas dinner we were invited over to Katharine’s friend’s house where I tried Yorkshire pudding, fruit cake and Christmas pudding. It was great to be able to just talk in English and spend time among friends. Another one of my friends, Kate from Australia, who I met at language school is now working in London. One day we rented a car and decided to leave the city and explore the countryside.
Our first stop was Windsor Castle. We were not the only ones with that idea. The line was huge so we moved on.
No matter, I still found a prince 🙂
Next stop: Stonehenge. The cloudy weather just added to its mystical feel.
Last stop of the day was Bath. This is “The Circus”, a ring of buildings that make a complete circle.
As the sun went down, the sky finally cleared and became a brilliant blue.
One of the things on my London bucket list was to see the Hobbit in English. Mission accomplished 🙂
All three of us rang in the New Years by Big Ben. Definitely a New Years to remember.
The fireworks were spectacular!
Last meal in London, fittingly combined two cultures close to my heart. I give you “The Kiwi Burger!” and it was delicious.
I returned home to Santiago in time to celebrate my birthday with my teammates. The big 3-0! It’s going to be a good year!
Thank you to everybody who has supported me this year and in this journey. I don’t know what 2013 and this new decade of life brings but I’m excited for it. You’ll just have to come back and see!
See Gale Go... 
The adventure continues…thanks for the GREAT pictures!