We Made It!

This always feels like the longest day. Up early to make sure everything is ready for the trip, then the long flight and finally touring the city. It is brutal. All things considered the kids were really good today. The handled the flights, border check and meeting up with everyone like champs.

We met our tour director Francois at the airport. He is very intelligent, organized and trained us well. Once we had our suitcases packed in a van for transport to the hotel we caught the Underground. We hopped off at Covent Garden and learned a little bit about the history of this old produce and flower market. We had a few minutes to explore and then it was off to Trafalgar Square. We couldn't see a lot because West End Festival is this weekend and there is a bunch of staging and scaffolding up. We did however get to watch a bit rehearsal for some of the groups performing.

One hour was all we had at the National Art Gallery but we made the most of it. This is where you can see paintings by Van Gogh, Monet, Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Degas, and so many other famous works. After we popped across the street and took our first group photo at St. Martin's in the Fields.

Then we were off to Piccadilly Circus and dinner. The restaurant EF picked tonight was Mother Mash, a restaurant specializing in fresh mashed potatoes. We were served meat & veggie pies (especially great crust) with gravy and a side of mashed potatoes. Ice cream for dessert.

Our hotel is far out of town but nice. Most are tucked safely into bed but a few have gone out to find a McDonalds. They must be a bit homesick (or hungry).

All is well and everyone is safe. Thanks parents for trusting us with your kids.