This time next week…

I will be flying somewhere in the sky en route to London!  We’re finally in our last week before our vacation/trip back home!  In some ways it seems like it would never get here, yet in other ways I can’t believe it is almost here.

This is usually the time my nerves start getting the best of me, and I get that flipping and flopping in my stomach.  I’m anxious and excited all the same time.  No matter how much I try to just look at the days leading up to the 31^st as normal days, I can’t. It’s hard not to be excited.  I haven’t been “home” for over a year and a half.  My wife hasn’t been back in over a year.  Connor has never been!  This is going to be a great experience and some much needed R&R for all of us.

As I fight the urge to start packing tonight, I’m doing my best to make a rational packing list of items I need, and want to take.  We don’t want to pack too much as we plan to return home with more than we’re taking (Sarah wants to get some clothes from England, plus there will be gifts for Connor and other odds and ends we’ve picked up).  What do I really need to take?

Now if only I can stop humming “Leavin’ on a jet plane, I don’t know when I’ll be back again…”

5 Inexpensive Things to do in London

These are just a few things you can do in London that are either free or have a nominal cost.  Whether you live in London, or are visiting, there are countless options that won’t hurt the pocketbook. These are some of my favorites!

1. Go to a Museum or Art Gallery – there are quite a few museums in London who don’t charge admission (though donations are welcome!).  The British Museum, The Natural History Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate Modern and Victoria and Albert Museum are just a few free museums around town.
2. The Royal Parks – The Royal Parks are some of the most beautiful parks I have seen.  They are filled with beautiful gardens, walking paths, and trees that you’ll forget you’re in the middle of London at times.  Check out their website to see what events the parks have going on!
3. Street Markets – Places like Camden Market, Portobello Market, Greenwich Market and others offer a great place to get out and get away from traditional malls and stores.  I’ve been to the Camden Market, and it was definitely an experience!
4. Street Performers/Artists – Spending any small amount of time in Covent Garden, you will see a host of performers and artists.  Sarah and I had a drink and watched a school choir from the US perform various popular songs, as well as an opera singer!
5. Go to the Pub – When all else fails, go to the pub. There are literally thousands of pubs throughout London varying in size, price, and atmosphere. Go for a drink, go for a meal, or go just to relax in by the fire with your favorite book, pubs are a great way to truly enjoy London like the locals!