tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63897016478077865112024-03-13T10:57:52.337-07:00Fortune FourWHAT ARE THEY UP TO NOW?4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-36863141496457565032012-08-10T03:21:00.000-07:002012-08-11T13:09:43.490-07:00Final Day in EuropeOne last day of wrestling the kids up by 9:00am to take on the day. We have definitely become used to the European lifestyle of bed around midnight and up at eight or nine in the morning. Since we are fairly North, the sun does not go down until about 10pm every night. Late dinners and then night activities or Olympic events have become the norm.<br /><br />Was suppose to be a casual day visiting some parks and doing a little shopping before our train ride to Frankfurt to fly home on Saturday. But little Quasimodo Shelby wanted to see the hunchback of Notre Dame up in the tower of the church. <br /><br />One has to arrive early to avoid a hour plus line most of the day. Shelby and Jana set off to Notre Dame first thing to get a jump on the line, while bookworm Sydney and Dad headed to nearby Shakespeare book store. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2178.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2178.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Jana was a bit concerned when they got to ND; there were police cars everywhere, caution tape and a body! Seriously? A crime scene on the last day we have to climb the tower of ND? Turns out a movie was being filmed but no one seemed to know which one.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2180.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2180.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2185.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2185.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Shelby found her own peace by climbing and being on top of the Notre Dame, while two streets below, Sydney's joy came from sitting up in the quaint second story of the bookstore to read old, used classic novels. Sydney purchased two classics; the Hunchback of Notre Dame & Moby Dick to read, more than likely on the plane ride home. (Thanks Karen & Jim!)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2188.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2188.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Shelby here blogging about climbing ND.<br /><br />After waiting in line for an hour it was nice to move around more. After climbing up almost 100 stairs we got to the first floor were we got our tickets, I thought it's interesting that you got your tickets off the ground floor. At home you can never buy your tickets in the middle of the ground floor and second floor.<br /><br />We climbed up 40 to 50 more to get to the 2nd floor with an amazing view of the city. When you looked around you, you were caged in. I said to mom I think it was well worth the wait. We walked farther down the litter path till we saw two small doors, dad could never fit through. We walked in walked up the stairs to where the giant bell was. It was cool to see something that's very historical. We waited in a small line to go up to the very top. When we were in line we meet a family from Washington. They said it felt so good to speak English, I agreed. When we got to the top the view was even more spectacular then the last one.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2192.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2192.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />After we got down we met Dad and Sydney. Here are some facts about the Notre Dame:<br /><br />It was to take 200 years to complete<br />The bell that we saw is the cathedral's largest bell<br />There is a total of 400 stairs<br />It's towers are 69 meters high<br /><br />If you go to Paris I recommend it,It a long line but its worth it!<br /><br />We headed to Marais, District 4 to experience an ethnic, and heavy Jewish, neighborhood of Paris. One thing about Paris, finding a meal to everyone's liking can be a challenge to say the least. If you decide to sit and eat too, it is twice as much as taking out. Still difficult to stomach spending $40 - $50 on takeout hamburgers, hot dog, and flaffels, but when in Paris. Most everyone seems to have coffee and croissant for breakfast, a panini sandwich to go and then sit down for a dinner at a cafe. C'est la vie. Hamburgers for the girls and delicious and filling falafel at Rick Steves recommendation. Thanks Rick!<br /><br />Off to Bertillion's for ice cream, as literally everyone who heard we were going to Paris said you have to have ice cream there. We had ice cream everyday at Bertillion subsidiaries or offshoots, but walked to experience the home of ice cream. Once again, they were closed for August, c'est la vie!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2199.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2199.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The Isle of St. Louis did provide an excellent opportunity to finalize last minute gifts.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2209.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2209.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />During Jana's 20 minute shopping "spree"...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2211.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2211.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Scott had the worst luck trying to rent four bikes in both London and Paris, as we only had a credit card and it didn't have a chip in it like most in Europe. A great concept to rent a bike for a day or less and it is locked up and computerized. Ride the bike to another part of the city and then find another bike stall to lock it up. Unfortunately, after multiple attempts in London and Paris, we were always turned away. Off and walking we went AGAIN! How many miles will it be today?!<br /><br />Marched back up to Luxembourg Park so Shelby could play in a huge playground for a hour before we had to navigate the metro with our suitcases to the train station. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2215.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2215.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Her smile says it all!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2220.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2220.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />As the train from Paris to Frankfurt glides thought the French countryside at 100 plus miles per hour, we ponder all the great things we saw and experienced. Nice to see countryside with trees, rolling farm land, cows grazing all reminding us of Switzerland. <br /><br />It was three trips wrapped in one, with the glorious Swiss Alps, the metropolis of London, thriving with the Olympics and the historic artistic city of Paris. What more could we ask for in an adventurous European trip. <br /><br />Next trip to Europe will definitely be South and more relaxing on the beaches of Italy, Spain, Croatia and maybe Greece.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2223.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2223.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD:<br />Shelby: Notre Dame & Luxembourg Gardens<br />Sydney: Shakespeare's Book Store (picture to come)<br />Jana: Morning walk with Shelby & Notre Dame, relaxing at Luxembourg Gardens<br />Scott: A bit of everything <br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Paris,%20France&z=10'>Paris, France</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-9667346556772359012012-08-09T03:20:00.000-07:002012-08-11T13:05:14.522-07:00We Triomphed!!!Fitting title to basically our last full day in Europe as it wasn't the most stress free day we've had. More on that later. As usual so many wonderful things to see, but tried to take it at a leisurely pace. <br /><br />The day started with a nice Parisian breakfast in our apartment. Fresh croissants from the bakery, fruit, yogurt and a little muesli. Ready to take on the day as the Louvre, among other things await.<br /><br />Our apartment....First come the stairs, 81 of them!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2121.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2121.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Master Bedroom<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2123.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2123.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Kitchen/Laundry Room<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2124.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2124.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Living Room AND the girls's room with large couch, chairs, nice table and rolls for the floor.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2125.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2125.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />View of our street - Rue de Bourgonne<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2126.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2126.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Staying one street over from the Rodin sculpture musee and two streets away from Napolean's Tomb and the War Museum, provided great start to the day. Scott really wanted to see the Rodin sculptures as it reminded him of his days at Stanford where they have a wonderful Rodin sculpture garden. <br /><br />A pose by "the thinker" we ventured through the beautiful gardens with sculptures hidden in different parts. We were all amazed at the fine precision and real sized body parts shaped from marble and bronze.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2127.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2127.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2129.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2129.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2130.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2130.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Short! The first thing that came to mind peering at the top of Napoleon's tomb. It was great to be a king or leader back then, as they built their own huge buildings as their memorials or resting place. The kids kept asking was Napolean a good guy and do the French regard him highly? Needless to say we gave the kids a short answer, not knowing for sure how the French view Napoleon.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2131.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2131.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />His tomb was quite impressive and each family member and other great war leaders each got their own wing and tomb.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2132.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2132.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />One of many glorious ceilings<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2134.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2134.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The War Museum brought back memories of studying WWI and WWII in school. The girls really have no idea of the history of the wars and didn't understand the Allies and Axis powers. Scott absolutely soaked up the museum and told the girls they would learn about WWII by reading "All Quiet on the Western Front".<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2135.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2135.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2136.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2136.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Great museum to see the perspective of the French and witness the timelines of soldiers clothing, guns, chemical warfare, tanks, and planes that shaped the wars over time. A good walking timeline of the wars.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2137.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2137.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Quick Metro ride to Louvre for a picnic lunch on the grass. Didn't get much better than baguette sandwiches, olives, salads, cheeses and a little beer to take in the nice sunny day, before venturing through the glass pyramid into the Louvre.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2138.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2138.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We have learned after 3 weeks that breakfast at home and packed lunches is the best plan for us to mitigate stress of deciding where to eat or disappointment with bad meals and the stress of making a decision that usually disappoints someone.<br /><br />A bit of a rough patch between girls, nothing a Parent Induced Peace Treaty "PIPT" can't solve or else we don't go in.....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2139.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2139.jpg' border='0' width='179' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br />Syd all "Louved" up and ready for art, post "PIPT"!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2140.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2140.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A lot to see, but really focused on Greek sculptures starting with Venus de Milo and the moving to Roman sculptures, before exploring the art of Medevil times during the Italian Renaissance. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2141.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2141.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Disappointed they were sold out of audio tours but luckily we had downloaded Rick Steves audio tour (thanks Grawleskis!) on the iPad to take Sydney through the history and famous pieces in the Louvre - she was enthralled!!! We're pretty sure she could walk all 13 miles of it if we let her.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2142.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2142.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Shelby wanted to bee line right to the Mona Lisa. As we soaked up the different art and artist, you know when your close to the Mona Lisa as the crowds become huge. The girls wiggled up from ten rows deep to peer at the most famous piece of art work in the World. Unfortunately she didn't wink, but posed pleasanty for our camera.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2144.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2144.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A perfectly planned day perfect went a bit haywire from here...<br /><br />The plan, Jana & Shelby high tail to line for climb at Notre Dame, Scott & Sydney see Vermeer and then head to ND. Unfortunately, Jana realizes she doesn't have her wallet and not sure if she's handed to Scott, he is good at holding things, or more likely, has she set it down to a foreigner's delight?<br /><br />Shelby stays calm, helping Jana with a plan - write a note for Scott to stay put and then, the not so good plan, try to find Scott & Syd in the Louvre. Needless to say we came up empty handed, went back to bag check noticing Scotts bag was gone, apparently not getting the note.<br /><br />So, Shelby & Jana ultimately decided to head to ND with no money in pockets. A bit of a stressful time with talks of what ifs and maybe and should we have, but all good as we round the corner to ND and see Scott and Syd waiting. Relief, appreciation and order restored once again and nothing an ice cream from Bertillion can't calm!<br /><br />Next misstep, a walk to a pizzeria recommended in the guide book only to find it close until mid August. We've found that quite common, as many Parisians are on vacation. Quick taxi to another place, but once again poor service and average food for $75.00.<br /><br />Another little find that Shelby wanted to see was Luxembourg Park and it was glorious! Unfortunately the children's park closed so we wandered for 15 minutes, knowing we'd like to return. Promptly at 8:45pm, the guards blow whistles and everyone departs and gates are locked.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2148.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2148.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Glorious light and foliage all around - 8:30pm<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2150.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2150.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2151.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2151.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />One last stop on our 2 day museum pass, the Arch de Triomphe at night. Under the Champ de Ellyses and up 100 or so stairs to the top of the Arch. Quite a spectacular view at 10:00pm complete with the light show of Eiffel Tower. Met a great Wisconsin family of seven traveling for 10 weeks and 10 different countries in Europe. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2153.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2153.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Down the stairs, under the Arch we go...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2155.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2155.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2156.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2156.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2158.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2158.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We searched for crepes with The Schwartz Family, exchanging travel tales and more on the Champ de Ellysees, but no luck for something under $10, all deciding to take a raincheck until tomorrow. Loved knowing others are price conscious and also that others sometimes have a a hard time finding what they want. We were beginning to think it was just us!<br /><br />In the end, a triumphant day!<br /><br />FPOD:<br />Shelby: Picnic at Louvre, Arc de Triomph & meeting The Schwartz <br />Sydney: The Louvre<br />Jana: Picnic @ Louvre, Luxembourg Gardens & meeting The Schwartz Family<br />Scott: War Museum, cruising the Louvre<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Paris,%20France&z=10'>Paris, France</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-59369602580344904032012-08-08T03:20:00.000-07:002012-08-11T13:01:09.264-07:00Very ImpressionistLate night last night, as we didn't get back until after midnight from our bike tour. Slow morning, again battling this is a vacation against the, "there's so much to see see in just 3 days. Paris awaits and here we come with two-day museum passes in hand!<br /><br />Our apartment is a long stone throw away from the d'Orsay, in the distric 7 area near St. Germaine. Time to see some art and first stop the old train station now converted into an art museum. Thanks to friend Kelly Grawleski we went directly to the fifth floor to see all the Impressionists and yes, we loved the behind the clock view - very Hugoesque!<br /><br />Standing behind this clock in the d'Orsay and seeing the hands move was an amazing sight. It looked massive from inside!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2105.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2105.jpg' border='0' width='211' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The Fortune Family refers to our residence artist and art historian Sydney for all inquires about art style, paintings, and artist. Quite impressive her knowledge of both the art and artists that we took in.<br /><br />Next up, a pleasant walk down the Seine to the Notre Dame. A quick moving line allowed us to view the church built in the 1100s from the first level. Unfortunately, an hour and a half line to climb the Notre Dame tower to see the hunchback of Notre Dame. We decided to save that for another time.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2106.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2106.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2107.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2107.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2108.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2108.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Lunch in Paris is either at a cafe in the corner where you sit down and pay for the bad service with high prices. We tended to gravitate toward purchasing panini's on the run. We miss our friendly London and it's easier food on every corner!<br /><br />Sitting eating lunch on the isle of Notre Dame we noticed Saint Chapelle across the street. Some of the best sites are not the major ones, but the undiscovered off the beaten path where the expectations are not too high. Saint Chapelle presented some of the most amazing stain glass windows anywhere. It is also right next to France's Supreme Court, so threaten the kids to behave or over to the court where most criminals would get the guillotine.<br /><br />In St. Chapelle, the fifteen separate panels of stained glass cover 6,500 square feet and over 1,100 different scenes from the Bible telling the the entire Christian history of the world, from Creation in the Genesis, to coming of Christ, to the end of the world.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2109.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2109.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2110.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2110.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The one tour we did book for our trip, was the Eiffel Tour, to avoid two hour plus lines. We were all impressed by the tour and the history of the Tower and its varied uses, despite many Parisians thinking it is an eyesore. Most interesting to learn, it was built for Paris' 1889 Universal Exposition and expected to stand for 30 years and be torn down.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2111.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2111.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The first part of the tour took us underground to witness the radio and secret military quarters to intercept German transmissions during WWI. The tower also transmitted TV signals when that first occurred. It stands 1,063 feet including its antennae.<br /><br />Finally what everyone was waiting for, an elevator up to the 2nd platform of the tower for an amazing view. It did not disappoint, although we felt we should have walked up it. It was a clear day and could see 70 km out supposedly. We had no idea how expansive Paris is, as one tends to spend all the time in the center where all the sites and museums are located.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2113.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2113.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Looking up into the Tower<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2114.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2114.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2115.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2115.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Can't get much better than today, as it was truly a glorious! Hard to believe tomorrow can bring some other amazing history and experiences for our family. To prepare for the walking tomorrow, we Fortune Four walked down the Eiffel Tower, 720 stairs, to end the day! <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2116.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2116.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Unfortunately the TV in the apartment isn't working do we're left to Internet updates for the Olympics and viewing out our window to the neighbors TV.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2117.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2117.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD: <br />Shelby: Behind the scenes tour of the Eiffel Tower<br />Sydney: Seeing the city of Paris from atop the Tower<br />Jana: The tour of the Tower<br />Scott: Second platform of the Tower<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Paris,%20France&z=10'>Paris, France</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-11628532885867483352012-08-07T06:08:00.001-07:002012-08-07T06:08:47.449-07:00We came, We saw, We Wembley'ed!Today was our last day in London. So....laundry, cleaning the house and eating all the food in the fridge was on the docket. Then, Wembley Stadium for Women's Soccer Semi Finals, which when we got the tickets a year ago, we hoped USA would be in the semi's. The US Women are in, but unfortunately NOT the match we had tickets for. Oh well, we tried!<br /><br />Today Jana woke feeling sad it was time to leave our house in Kingston. We've seen much of what London has to offer and attended Olympic events, but that hasn't left much time to explore our darling neighborhood on the Thames and surrounding burroughs. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1016.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1016.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Just this morning on the bus we met a lovely family from "our neighborhood" telling us of a park with sweeping views of The Thames within minutes of our house. Apparently the view has not changed in 200 years as they have. It permitted any building to obstruct or change it.<br /><br />We got our chores done and tried to restore the house to order for The Gormans return. Ironically, they are in San Diego now and will move to Dana Pt. so we hope to see them when we're stateside. We decided to make a thank you gift for them so off to paint some pottery 2 blocks away.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1017.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1017.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1018.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1018.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Bus to Richmond, train to Waterloo, transfer to Jubilee Line for Wembley Stadium. These pics are for you Mike Brooks!!! We wish you were there with us. We couldn't have hoped for better seats. 50 yard line seats, but not sure what they are called in soccer (football)? The stadium BIG, holds 80,000 and is so clean with comfortable seats. They sell alcohol at concession stands but you are not allowed to take it in the stadium. Hmmmm, maybe that's how it stays so clean! <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1019.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1019.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1021.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1021.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1024.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1024.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />There were two venues that Scott really wanted to experience and both began with W. Wimbeldon for tennis and Wembley for football. Wembley is where England plays all their big international matches and many of the European league championship games. Quite the que with 80,000 people getting in and out at the same time.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1027.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1027.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The match up was Japan, No. 1 in the world, vs. France. It was an exciting game with Japan winning 2-1, that included France missing a penalty kick to tie it late, advancing to the gold medal match. Getting out fairly quickly versus the 2 hour expected exit from the soccer stadium, we had one last place to see, the P&G USA Athlete & Family House. We knew it was going to be good when we saw that swimmers Dana Vollmer and Rebecca Soni had signed in. Breaststroker Eric Shanteau walked by as we were getting credentials. World record holder 200 breaststroke Rebecca Soni.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1031.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1031.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br /><br />Now we are watching USA vs. Canada women's soccer at the P&G Athlete & Family House and it's just gone into overtime. Great thing we are here with other US Olympic athletes getting the NBC feed to watch what Shelby really wanted to see, USA soccer. If we were at the house the BBC wouldn't have shown soccer. The winner will advance to play Japan for gold! GO USA!!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1034.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1034.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />An awesome game as Canada kept scoring, 3 goals total, and each time the US would respond, including the tying goal late in second half. Women's soccer seems more exciting than the men's game, as there are a lot more runs at the goal. Finally, in the second overtime in extended injury time, literally 30 seconds left before penalty kicks, US scores a goal to win and the whole house goes crazy chanting USA.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1038.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1038.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A great last night and what a way to finish with a gold medal weight lift by Shelby.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1039.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1039.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We were worried that London, the focus of our trip the last four years, could not live up to the amazing time in Switzerland. Needless to say, the last night just capped a great adventure of sites in London along with some amazing Olympic events. Another gold medal Olympics for the Fortune Four and now off to the third part of our trip, Paris!<br /><br /><br />FPOD:<br />Shelby: Seeing the soccer semi finals at Wembley & watching USA on t.v.<br />Sydney: Seeing all the athletes at P&G House<br />Jana: Walking and talking as a family<br />Scott: Witnessing an exciting semi final soccer match in Wembley Stadium and an awesome USA soccer game.<br />4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-18326682054448448982012-08-07T03:19:00.000-07:002012-08-11T12:57:57.287-07:00Goodbye London!Today we leave London but not before cleaning the house and a quick stop to the local pottery store to make a thank you gift for The Gormans. Our time in their house has been wonderful and we look forward to future home exchanges and where they will take us. Having a home to retreat in has been heavenly. I can't imagine this trip having stayed in a hotel for 10 nights.<br /><br />This paint your own pottery store was just two blocks from our house. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2083.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2083.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Goodbye to our house on Tangmere Grove for our last ride on bus 65 to Kingston for transfer to Chunnel and then, Paris here we come!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2086.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2086.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Our time in London has been spectacular. Not all roses but a great experience as we have seen and learned much about Great Britain; it's history, the people, ourselves. We learned our way around, found favorite markets, the girls got comfortable, and confident too, sometimes guiding us back via The Tube. The challenge was balancing being tourists vs. attending the Olympics - both requiring much time and energy.<br /><br />The Brits are kind and efficient in many ways. We particularly enjoyed the signs at the bus stop indicating when the buses would arrive.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2087.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2087.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The every popular "Mind the gap" warning...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2088.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2088.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Also on the underground, ads like this. Interesting how open they are about social issues. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2089.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2089.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />All Aboard the Chunnel, bittersweet about leaving London and anxious for what awaits in Paris.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2090.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2090.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The Channel Tunnel (French: Le tunnel sous la Manche; also referred to as the Chunnel) is 31.4 miundersea rail tunnel linking Folkestone, Kent, in the United Kingdom with Coquelles, Pas-de-Calais, near Calais in northern France beneath the English Channel at the Strait of Dover. At its lowest point it is 250 ft deep. At 23.5 miles the Channel Tunnel possesses the longest undersea portion of any tunnel in the world.<br /><br />The tunnel carries high-speed Eurostar passenger trains, Eurotunnel Shuttle roll-on/roll-off vehicle transport — the largest in the world — and international rail freight trains. In 1996 the American Society of Civil Engineers identified the tunnel as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.<br /><br />The idea for the Chunnel fixed link began as early as 1802, but British political and press pressure over compromised national security stalled attempts to construct a tunnel. The eventual successful project, organised by Eurotunnel, began construction in 1988 and opened in 1994. <br /><br />Since its construction, the tunnel has faced several problems. Fires have disrupted operation of the tunnel. Illegal immigrants and asylum seekers have attempted to use the tunnel to enter the UK, causing a minor diplomatic disagreement over the siting of the Sangatte refugee camp, which was eventually closed in 2002.<br /><br />Arriving in Paris was sobering! Time to dig deep and learn a new transit system which entails; learning the lines/maps, purchasing tickets, navigating turnstiles with luggage (a learned art) and summoning patience. Oh yeah and a lot of stairs and walking!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2091.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2091.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We find our apartment building with, "the BIG blue door next to the restaurant with 1,000 wine corks", as instructed by the rental company like some sort of treasure hunt. We feel victorious when we climb the floor flights of stairs, with luggage.<br /><br />A few hours of quiet time produces sleep for some but Shelby journals and produces a list of things she'd like to see and do. Fighting the urge to stay in, we rally for our 7pm reservations for evening bike tour with Fat Tire Bike Tours and make our way to the meeting point at the Eiffel Tower, or course takings few wrong turns.<br /><br />An 8 mile guided group ride through the city at dusk with great views, fresh air, ice cream, river boat cruise and more. We end after midnight, just in time to catch the Tower lights in our walk here. Again we do not manage the most direct route - maybe tomorrow we'll have better sense of direction!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2092.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2092.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A stop on the bike tour at the Louvre. This poor American Girl just can't wait to get in. She'll probably dream of all the art that awaits her viewing tomorrow.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2093.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2093.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A beautiful night for a ride...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2094.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2094.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Oh my! Are we really in Paris? Is that really the Eiffel Tower? Just about 11:00pm on the Seine.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/11/2095.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/11/s_2095.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD: <br />Shelby: Bike Tour, Mom & Dad getting lost walking back to our apartment<br />Sydney: The Chunnel<br />Jana: Riding into the courtyard of the Louvre with cello music playing. Breathtaking and overwhelming. Seeing the Eiffel Tower lit up at night was pretty spectacular too.<br />Scott: Chunnel and biking around The Seine<br /><br />Scott's favorite line of the day: Jana referring to the Eiffel Tower, "It's not as big as I thought it would be."<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Rue%20de%20Bourgogne%4048.856653%2C2.317208&z=10'>Rue de Bourgogne</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-36092105298609530532012-08-05T15:14:00.000-07:002012-08-07T06:06:55.978-07:00A nice day for a driveWe've wanted to get out of the city since we got here. Didn't really know the best place to head but figured we should go somewhere. The plan, The Cotswalds, via Oxford. Jana would drive, Scott would navigate and the girls would be silent in the back of the car!<br /><br />Unfortunately the weather wasn't in our favor and it was a rainy morning so waited for some clear skies and went for it. Thankfully, Scott fit in the car and it had gps- we were off to a good start. As long as Jana remembered to stay to the left that is!<br /><br />On the "freeway". They not only have large signs, they print the highway number on the off ramp and on the freeway so you can follow that way too.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1004.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1004.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Arrived in Oxford and had GREAT parking kharma. And end slot so we we didn't have to even parallel park!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1005.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1005.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Clear skies so time to get smart and see Oxford. Interesting to learn it is made up of 30 different colleges located throughout the city. Great driving, navigating, and parking landed us right next to the second largest library in England. People from all over the world come to view and study ancient books in reading rooms.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1006.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1006.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1007.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1007.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />After a quick viewing of works by Charles Dickens, we headed to lunch in a little garden cafe part of the Oxford Biblioteca building. Excellent local dishes, as we experienced English chili, ratatouille, and rarebit bread which we thought they were pronouncing it rabbit bread. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1008.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1008.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />After lunch we intended to see a castle and a campus library where the filmed some Harry Potter scenes in Hogwarts. Unfortunately, it was the second time in our trip that we had a torrential downpour of rain. Ponchos helped, but soaked head to toe headed back to car. Nice university town. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1009.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1009.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1010.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1010.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Nice drive home and countryside, despite getting a little turned around.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1011.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1011.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Off to our last volleyball match of the trip to see USA Women, #1 in the world, play Turkey. USA started slow and played all their starters, and after a close first set win, dominated in three straight sets. After all these years of fielding a strong women's team, never winning the gold, this is their Olympics to finally break though and win that gold medal.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1012.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1012.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1013.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1013.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A great first week for USA Volleyball. Both men and women indoor teams finished first in their pools, meaning an easier quarterfinal match. Both should make it to the semi's, and then there will be four really good teams and anybody could win the gold.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1014.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1014.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD:<br />Shelby: Sleeping in the car<br />Sydney: Learning about Oxford<br />Jana: Driving a (fast) car. Making it to/from Oxford without me and Scott fighting.<br />Scott: Jana successfully driving to/from Oxford, seeing Women Vball win<br /><br />SAME BUT DIFFERENT<br /><br />Jana needed coffee mid-drive so we followed a "Services Next Exit" sign and came upon the most beautiful rest stop we've ever seen complete with a mini grocery store, arcade for kids, some fast food outlets and a lovely Starbucks that served beverages in large mugs for those not "taking away", or as we say "to go".<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1015.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1015.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Oxford&z=10'>Oxford</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-53251830195983512482012-08-04T15:14:00.000-07:002012-08-08T00:21:45.212-07:00Up the RiverWanting to get our money's worth for the Big Bus Tour we bought yesterday, with on/off privileges, and tickets good for 24 hours, we rallied and headed to town after a leisurely morning complete with fresh pastries Shelby and Scott walked to get.<br /><br />We hoped on the Big Bus, after getting our free popsicles at Waterloo Station they've been handing out every day, and we were off....<br /><br />St. Paul's Cathedral, over the London Bridge, board a boat for a trip up River Thames, picnic in Parliament Square/Westminster Abbey and our final stop for us...a token trip to Harrods.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/08/40.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/08/s_40.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/08/41.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/08/s_41.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We learned that we didn't see Big Ben today because Big Ben is actually the bell inside the clock. Who knew?! We also learned much about the architecture and history of the city and it's bridges.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/08/42.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/08/s_42.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A stop at Harrods for an indulgent ice cream, we walked to the USA House to use our guest passes. We figured we'd eat for free, catch some action on the tvs and the girls would leave for home when Scott headed to beach volleyball to see Misty and Kerri play.<br /><br />The USA House complete with couches, events on multiple screens, free food/drink, USA pride and more!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/08/43.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/08/s_43.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Shelby with Jamie Gray, Gold Medalist Shooting<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/08/44.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/08/s_44.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Well, it's 11:30pm and Jana and the girls just got on the train! We ate, drank, looked for medalists and athletes and had a great time until the live band started which proved unbearable for our ears. There were rumors of swimmers showing up but we couldn't take the noise and were fading...<br /><br />Beside the free food and drinks the highlight was watching Americans compete with other Americans. The energy was great and during the medal presentations it was cool to have the anthem play.<br /><br />FPOD:<br />Shelby: Taking the boat tour of River Thames, dinner at USA House & ice cream at Harrod's<br />Sydney: Learning the history on the tour & cheering on USA @ USA House!<br />Jana: River Thames and late night commute with girls<br />Scott: Bus tour and seeing Misty and Kerri dominate their match.<br /><br />*Technical error today, pictures erased from camera before uploaded to iPad. Luckily they are on Scott's. computer but well have to figure out how to,transfer them when home. The ones above were taken with the iPad.<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=London,United%20Kingdom%4051.501287%2C-0.178725&z=10'>London,United Kingdom</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-26653601727548256692012-08-03T01:55:00.000-07:002012-08-05T02:50:41.514-07:00Trapped Tourists?Today, we did it all! Or at least it felt like it....<br /><br />First up, a tour of 19 State rooms at Buckingham Palace for Jana & girls. Scott sat this one out enjoying time at a cafe doing some work and watched some of the changing of the guard. The tour, complete with free audio guide was amazing and we loved it. We learned about Palace protocol, what different rooms are used for, saw the Royal dining room, more of the Queen's jewels, walked some of the gardens, created our own ciphers and more!<br /><br />Scott watched for 15 minutes, saw a lot of pomp and circumstance, guards moving right to left, etc. and then decided to leave. He's assumes everyone got "changed" correctly.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/429.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_429.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We learned that when the state flag is up, the Queen is not home but when her own flag is up, she is there. She was not there today. The history, art collections and one's imagination about life in the Palace was captivating!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/430.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_430.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />View of back side of Palace and the lawns leading to the gardens and lake.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/431.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_431.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Jana has wanted to take a double decker bus tour since arriving in London and today was the day! We decided to use the bus as part sight seeing vessel, part taxi to get us to places we wanted to see or needed to be.<br /><br />Beautiful skies for us bus ride! We've been thank by many Brits for bringing nice weather with us.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/432.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_432.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />First stop, Madame Tussaud's where we were immediately surprised to see the figures were not roped off and that you could walk right up and touch them, put your arms around them, etc. Interesting to learn over 200 measurements are taken of a person to create their wax figure and each hair is added one by one! Turns out there's a lot of history behind the the Madame and her museum. More on that below.<br /><br />Look, George again!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/433.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_433.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This is Armitabh Bachman, a Bollywood star and prominent Indian actor. I had to take his picture because a) I tried to move out of his way because I thought he was real and b) the detail on him is so amazing!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/434.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_434.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So lifelike....<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/435.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_435.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Scott coaching Tiger on a putt<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/436.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_436.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Sydney having a peaceful moment<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/437.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_437.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Finally, we get our torch picture!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/438.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_438.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Shelby and Becks!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/439.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_439.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This was the warning before entering the 4D show. Back pokes???<br />It was a quick animated cartoon with Super Heros with real water, wind, knifes in your seats and bullets coming at you.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/440.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_440.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Thanks Noah, great recommendation!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/441.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_441.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='211' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Packed lunches again today and ate on the double decker under clear blue skies which was fantastic. However, get a load of the types of options available all around, even in train stations...<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/442.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_442.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Quick trip to Hamley's Toy Store which has been in London since 1780!<br />It's five stories with demonstrations, a cafe/candy store and every toy, game, puzzle imaginable. Imagine FAO Schwartz but more crowded! <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/443.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_443.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Look what we found in a moment of desperation! The front side is a billboard but the back, saved us although we had to pay 50 pence, or $1 USD. But we did get a two-fer as Jana went too!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/444.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_444.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/445.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_445.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Last stop of the day, US VBall Reception at Gore Hotel. Nice to see old and new friends and support the US teams. Quick adult dinner with Beals, Klostermans & Twohigs before they all headed to a match and we fetched the girls who were sequester in the Twohig's hotel room. Thank goodness they could watch swim!<br /><br />We finally got the girls dinner about 9pm. Across the street was this typical corner pub. They close much earlier here, most at 11pm. Probably because they start drinking much earlier, best we can figure.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/446.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_446.jpg' border='0' width='260' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Next street corner, we nicknamed it "American Row"<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/447.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_447.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='180' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This is was the girls least favorite part of the day for sure. We're on the bus home about 10pm and a few rows away a Brit guy, about 18 or so, was so drunk, he started vomiting out the window from the top of the double decker. On top of seeing something similar at beach volleyball, we're fairly certain the girls will never want to drink alcohol!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/05/448.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/05/s_448.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />FPOD<br />Shelby: EVERYTHING!<br />Sydney: All of it. Especially seeing swim results in Barb & Kev's hotel room.<br />Jana: Audio tour @ B. Palace, double decker tour w/blue skies & dinner with USA Vball friends.<br />Scott: Bus tour, USA Vball reception & dinner w/friends.<br /><br />*The attraction’s history is a rich and fascinating, dating back to the Paris in 1770. It was here Madame Tussaud learnt to model wax likenesses under the tutelage of her mentor, Dr Philippe Curtius. At the age of 17, she became art tutor to King Louis XVI’s sister at the Palace Of Versailles and then, during the French Revolution, was forced to prove her allegiance to the feudalistic nobles by making the death masks of executed aristocrats. Madame Tussaud came to Britain in the early 19th century alongside a travelling exhibition of revolutionary relics and effigies of public heroes and rogues.<br /><br />At a time when news was communicated largely by word of mouth, Madame Tussauds’ exhibition was a kind of travelling newspaper, providing insight into global events and bringing the ordinary public face-to-face with the people in the headlines. Priceless artefacts from the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars brought to vividly life events in Europe which had a direct bearing on everyday lives. Figures of leading statesmen and, in the Chamber of Horrors, notorious villains put faces to the names on everyone’s lips and captured the public imagination. In 1835, Madame Tussauds’ exhibition established a permanent base in London as the Baker Street Bazaar - visitors paid ‘sixpence’ for the chance to meet the biggest names of the day. The attraction moved to its present site in Marylebone Road in 1884.<br /><br /> <br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Tangmere%20Grove,Kingston%20upon%20Thames,United%20Kingdom%4051.428648%2C-0.308338&z=10'>Tangmere Grove,Kingston upon Thames,United Kingdom</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-45693053987579729162012-08-02T01:01:00.000-07:002012-08-04T01:37:07.004-07:00Let's go to the TheatreTwo weeks into our trip, we finally had our first day of relaxing and sleeping in, until heading out to see *Billy Elliott The Musical. The play was amazing; the choreography and sets some of the most creative we've ever seen and it was funny too.<br /><br />Some morning fun playing with Martha's toys.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/131.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_131.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The girls worried we'd be late to the theatre, left the cafe ahead, navigating the busy streets. Will the mission be accomplished?<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/132.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_132.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Success but then they were too afraid to go in without us!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/133.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_133.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Love the program - it even has a "translation" page to help with understanding the English words and slang.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/134.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_134.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Kel, this ones for you! Poor Scott was so uncomfortable in the small seats, he asked if he could sit in the wheelchair section and look where they moved him.....His own balcony seat!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/135.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_135.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Syd passes her time waiting and riding on trains by reading the daily updates. Thank goodness it's free and they have a morning and evening edition. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/136.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_136.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD<br />Shelby: Billy Elliott!!!<br />Sydney: Billy Elliott and all the fantastic swim results <br />Jana: The creative choreography in Billy Elliott and the girls helping me grocery shop on our commute home.<br />Scott: Billy Elliott<br /><br />*Lots of history and new British slang to read up on! The play is about a young boy growing up in the North East of England in the 80's when the Miner's strike was going on.<br /><br />Billy (Elliott) finds a passion and gift for ballet and with the encouragement of a dance instructor, and ultimately his father, auditions for the Royal Ballet School. The message to fight for what you want despite the odds while not forgetting where you came from is a strong and good message for all.<br /><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Tangmere%20Grove,Kingston%20upon%20Thames,United%20Kingdom%4051.428621%2C-0.308432&z=10'>Tangmere Grove,Kingston upon Thames,United Kingdom</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-73173548285381851412012-08-01T13:57:00.000-07:002012-08-04T01:05:54.144-07:00Our Day in Olympic ParkAnother early morning, especially since we didn't get back from beach volleyball until 1am. Hour train ride to the other side of town, where the Olympic park is located. We felt like the locals, reading the papers and blogging while on the train. The transportation has been extremely efficient, but the Olympic park is big and overwhelming with thousands of people going to events.<br /><br />Good Morning Olympic Park!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/140.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_140.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />An Olympic trip is not complete without a trip to the Olympic Park and token picture with the torch. We managed the trip to the Park but came up short with seeing the the torch as it's apparently been moved inside the stadium. The Brits think they're being clever and unique, we think it's lame as every Olympics it burned bright and prominent for all to see and take pics with.<br /><br />Where's the torch????<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/141.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_141.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br />Off to Swim prelims first seeing Phelps, Soni, Lochte, Franklin and the Women's 4x200 Relay. Needless to say, you can never go wrong with swim tickets, as US swimmers never seem to disappoint.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/142.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_142.jpg' border='0' width='266' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A sampling of the bazillion pics Sydney took...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/143.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_143.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />If you look carefully, you might see some Fortunes in this crowd...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/144.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_144.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />After swim, we ventured out into the expansive Olympic park with mega stores, pin trading venues, food vendors and tons of people before women's basketball. <br /><br />Pin trading is an Olympic tradition but doesn't seem to be going on as much as in past Olympics. It's always fun to get a new one for "free".<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/145.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_145.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Below, the biggest McDonalds we've ever seen. Thankfully there are fantastic food options all over the city and Olympic Park; amazing fresh sandwiches, fish & chips, sausages and great salads and vegetarian options too. Food heaven! And the best part, they sell cider at all venues! Jana's kind of city!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/146.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_146.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />They Brits all wearing Team GB garb. It just make us think of Gretchen!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/147.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_147.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Walking across the park. Always a plan in place to meet if we get separated. Thankfully that hasn't happened!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/148.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_148.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />After battling crowds it was best to sit in the Olympic park and watch kayaking and men's cycling time trial on the big screen.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/149.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_149.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Basketball entailed Australia working the smaller Brazil team and then the watched the first half of Great Britain (GB) vs. Russia. Amazing to see the GB so excited for their team. <br /><br />Battled through the park to get home with Scott heading to the exciting USA VB men's team win over Brazil in four sets and Jana & Girls home for dinner and watching swim finals on tv of course.<br /><br />Just missed the taping of the Today Show<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/150.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_150.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Inside one of the Olympic stores. Sorry, too crowded for us so no souvenirs for anyone....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/151.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_151.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Outside the park, all transportation options to choose from! <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/04/152.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/04/s_152.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD:<br />Shelby: Seeing Women's Bball & Swim and being in O. Park<br />Sydney: Swim <br />Jana: Seeing swim and afternoon nap in the park of course<br />Scott: Exploring Olympic Park<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Tangmere%20Grove,Kingston%20upon%20Thames,United%20Kingdom%4051.428724%2C-0.308375&z=10'>Tangmere Grove,Kingston upon Thames,United Kingdom</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-12049284375713001442012-07-31T12:45:00.000-07:002012-08-01T14:02:25.260-07:00Swim For GoldBy guest Blogger: Sydney Fortune (11)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2649.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2649.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Yesterday was an early start to get to day 3 of the Olympic swimming prelims. Syd and Scott up at 6:30 am, walk to the bus station, bus to the train station, and on train at 7:00 am for the hour ride to Olympic Park.<br /><br />Passing time before prelims starts.... GO USA!!!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2650.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2650.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The Aquatic Center was packed with people and even for three prelims there was at no shortage of excitement. The British definitely were having a great time, screaming their heads off for every British swimmer!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2651.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2651.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2652.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2652.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The American swimmers all filled their expectations with strong performances. Allison Schmitt and Missy Franklin both made semi-finals for the 200 free. Then, Tyler Clary and the Baltimore Bullet (Phelps) in the 200 fly, again making the semis, both in the top five. Lastly, the 200 IM women Ariana Kukors and Caitlin Leverenz swam well to secure their place in the semis.<br /> <br />It was quite cool to see the swimmers in action in person. I've watched them on TV, read all about them in Splash magazine (a swimming magazine). So to see them in person at the biggest swimming competition of their life was.... amazing!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2653.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2653.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Phelps "flapping" his arms before his race<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2654.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2654.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Missy Franklin gets a GOLD!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2655.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2655.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Fortune Four regrouped for a trip to the Tate Modern Museum with Gma & Gpa and friends of theirs and a quick lunch after. Then we were off to the USA House for shopping which proved to be overpriced and made us thankful for our last minute Old Navy Olympic t-shirt purchases we made before we left home.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2656.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2656.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Scott & Syd off to evening swim finals, Jana & Shelbs heads home for quiet night at home. Unfortunately the tv wasn't working so Jana & Shelbs couldn't watch anything Olympic coverage so they headed to the grocery store where a) Jana drove them and b) they watched some swim finals in the electronics department of the store.<br /><br />The car ride went well once Jana read the manual to see how to get the car in reverse. Did a few laps around the neighborhood to make sure we were ready for the open road, then we were on our way. Strange figuring out space on the left and also looking over right shoulder when in reverse.<br /><br />The view from the other side of the car...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2657.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2657.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Outside the local grocery store. Very user friendly, clean and lots of good food!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2658.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2658.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Same But Differents found by Shelby:<br /><br />To use a shopping cart, you must put a pound in the slot which then unlocks your cart from the others. When you return the cart, you get your pound, approximately $1.50, back. They might be onto something, there are no random courts anywhere other than where they are supposed to be.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2659.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2659.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Shelby noticed they don't put years on their expiration dates on food packaging.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/01/2660.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/01/s_2660.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br />An S.O.S. email to Gormans for help with the tv as we've lost ability to watch Olympic coverage.<br /><br />FPOD<br />Shelby: Cuddling with Mommy<br />Sydney: Being at swim finals and seeing Missy Franklin win gold<br />Jana: Driving with Shelby and cheering on USA in the grocery isle<br />Scott: Swim finals; 2 golds & 2 silvers<br /> <br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /> <br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Tangmere%20Grove,Kingston%20upon%20Thames,United%20Kingdom%4051.428701%2C-0.308397&z=10'>Tangmere Grove,Kingston upon Thames,United Kingdom</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-11625037003148423602012-07-29T17:00:00.000-07:002012-08-02T13:48:36.304-07:00Out and About in LondonLazy morning at home and off to meet Barb & Kevin, friends through USA Vball from Spokane, for a visit of the Tower of London complete with torture chamber, many of the Queen's Jewels, a catapult and more! Strange to think what life was life for the people that walked these grounds.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3068.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3068.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, more commonly known as the Tower of London, is a historic castle on the north bank of the River Thames in central London, England. It was founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest of England. The White Tower, which gives the entire castle its name, was built by William the Conqueror in 1078, and was a resented symbol of oppression, inflicted upon London by the new ruling elite. The castle was used as a prison since at least 1100, although that was not its primary purpose. A grand palace early in its history, it served as a royal residence. The Tower has several buildings set within two concentric rings of defensive walls and a moat. There were several phases of expansion, mainly under Kings Richard the Lionheart, Henry III, and Edward I in the 12th and 13th centuries. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3069.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3069.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Catapult anyone?<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3070.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3070.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Brown bagging in London!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3071.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3071.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />London Bridge behind us. Never tire of the "O" Rings - so majestic!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3072.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3072.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Off to Men's Indoor Volleyball, USA vs. Germany. U.S. won in 3 sets pretty easy. Jana bought a cute little gin & tonic for Gma Dorothy and forgot it was in her bag so had to dump or chug before she could pass through security. Way to represent! Fyi, Syd was embarrassed by this.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3073.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3073.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3074.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3074.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3075.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3075.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Exiting Earl's Court, the Men's Vball venue. Jana loved that spectators were held back in groupings to alleviate a stampede getting to the train station across the street. Scott didn't like it one bit.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3076.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3076.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Next up, Beach Volleyball where Todd Rodgers/Phil Daulhauser and Ross/Kessey won. We left at midnight to beat the train crowds and keep Shelby awake! The beach volleyball venue is happening and the beer and wine are flowing a lot!!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3077.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3077.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3078.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3078.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /> Spectators got a kick out of this guy...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3079.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3079.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />And this is how you dress to get on t.v.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3080.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3080.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Enjoyed the full moon over the courts and then an amazing view of Big Ben lit up as we walked to Westminster Station for the train home to Richmond.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3081.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3081.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We figure we've walked an average of 6 miles a day on this trip. Needless to say, there's been some long days. No. 1 rule, at least one person has to stay awake so we don't miss our stop!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3082.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3082.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD<br />Shelby: Seeing Kevin & Barb and watching volleyball<br />Sydney: Learning the history of the Tower of London<br />Jana: Time w/Kevin & Barb, picnic lunch and seeing good Vball<br />Scott: Seeing the Men win in 3<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Tangmere%20Grove,Kingston%20upon%20Thames,United%20Kingdom%4051.428680%2C-0.308394&z=10'>Tangmere Grove,Kingston upon Thames,United Kingdom</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-42778018103534010412012-07-28T23:53:00.000-07:002012-07-31T01:31:59.932-07:00Royal Deer and TennisTo date everyone has welcomed us from San Diego, thanking us for bringing they sunny weather with us. Today our luck ran out, as it was a planned day to ride bikes through one one London's largest park, Richmond, on our way to Wimbeldon for tennis.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/357.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_357.jpg' border='0' width='258' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Needless to say, finding four bikes that fit were difficult to come by. Slight drizzle as we started on our 7 mile bike ride. Ten minutes later poncho's a must as the downpour began. Our route was thwarted by the women's road race, but despite bouts of rain and open skies we embarked on paths through the park to legendary Wimbeldon.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/358.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_358.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A nice ride through the park, where every Brit say you must see the royal deer. Tons of deer in huge packs, but not sure what makes them royal, but quite glorious. Oh deer, as a huge buck crossed right in front of our ride.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/359.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_359.jpg' border='0' width='217' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The most direct way was through the park, although it included a lot of dirt roads good for the mountain bikes, not so much Jana's cruiser complete with basket. A hour and a half later, few directions here and there, we made it in a downpour to Wimbeldon. Great to see the majestic grounds, but with the rain all the grass courts were covered with tarps. The ball boys and girls have a dual role besides running down balls, pulling the tarps on and off the courts.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/360.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_360.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Pulling back the tarps...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/361.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_361.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Amazing seats on Court 1, although rain. The only tennis matches that were being played was in Centre Court, as they have a roof. A little lunch and drinks to pass the time as the rain passes. Needless to say, one cider did Jana in and I was feeling royal with a huge Hieneken.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/362.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_362.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Luck of the draw, we were able to see #1 in the world, Serbia's Novak Djokovic vs. Italy's Fabio Fognini. We were 25 feet from the court and being so close to Novak, definitely kept Jana awake after the cider. Amazing how small the court seating actually is and quite quaint. We saw the first set tied at 6-6, and the tie break was 7-7, before the rain dumped and ended our tennis viewing.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/363.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_363.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Djokovic serving<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/364.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_364.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/365.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_365.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/366.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_366.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A little tea and then explored Wimbeldon and all the courts. We were hoping to sit or even stand in the two rows that surround the outside courts. Would have been amazing to see top tennis so close, but got a good feel at Court 1.<br /><br />Road through the town of Wimbeldon in a downpour and decided to cut our losses by taking a train to Kingston. With early evening and clear skies, we had a beautiful mile ride home along the Thames and run to the store to prepare dinner and relax watching swimming finals on the TV.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/31/367.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/31/s_367.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Three days in London and we have officially seen 15 seconds of road cycling and one set of tennis that ended in a tie. Tomorrow is a new day and a lot of time is spent planning the day via events, transportation, and sites to see.<br /><br />FPOD<br />Shelby: Riding to Wimbeldon and watching Novak Djokovic<br />Sydney: Seeing tennis from great seats and watching Dana Vollmer on tv, break the world record<br />Jana: Bike ride to Wimbledon, seeing great tennis & ride home along the Thames<br />Scott: Seeing the grounds of Wimbledon<br /><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Tangmere%20Grove,Kingston%20upon%20Thames,United%20Kingdom%4051.428724%2C-0.308375&z=10'>Tangmere Grove,Kingston upon Thames,United Kingdom</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-77089811646355880352012-07-28T13:48:00.000-07:002012-07-29T15:50:15.813-07:00Move In Day!Today is the first official day of the Games and the day we meet The Gorman's and move into their house for the next 10 days. Unfortunately all roads to their house were closed because of the Men's Road Race so we had to wait until after 5pm. Plan B) walk to the road race to see the riders whiz by, then head to the city for sight seeing.<br /><br />The girl's reaction to Vegamite at breakfast...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3763.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3763.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Shelby, Scott & Jana head to road race while Syd stays at hotel to watch swimming prelims and read. Speaking of reading, we discovered Sydney smuggled 5 BIG books in her suitcase breaking the two book limit we have the girls. Time to up the Kindle allotment!<br /><br />Shelb's in great position to film the riders come around the corner!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3764.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3764.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br />Amazing rush from the crowd as the riders came through <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3765.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3765.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Waterloo Station & Taking the Tube<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3766.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3766.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3767.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3767.jpg' border='0' width='211' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />We met Grandma & Gpa at Trafalgar Square, in the heart of London, and one of the city’s most vibrant open spaces. It is a landmark in central London enjoyed by Londoners and all visitors alike. It is a lively place indeed and Home to Nelson’s Column.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3768.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3768.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A big map for a little girl. Bless her heart she loves to try and figure out how to get us places.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3769.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3769.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A visit to the National Gallery for Van Gogh, Picasso, DaVinci, Monet & more! <br />Everyone enjoyed and Syd was in heaven. We got bold and broke off into groups to go separate ways for a bit. Unfortunately the plan for Jana and the girls to meet Scott in front of Buckingham Palace didn't work well as once again plans thwarted by the Men's Road Race.<br /><br />Happy to report that Jana, Syd & Shelb's managed to find their way back to Richmond via the tube and reunited with Scott there. Proud of the girls for staying calm and helping navigate back to hotel.<br /><br />Finally off to meet The Gorman Family at 2 Tangmiere Drive. The taxi driver had a tough time finding it and words of optimism forums, "hopefully they won't trash your house!". Thanks dude, we hope not too.... <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3770.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3770.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='264' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br />Quick introductions, walk through of the house and they were off to Vegas. Within minutes Scott had laundry started, and Jana dinner, and relief set in that home exchanges really do work! <br /><br />FPOD:<br />Shelby: Watching the bike race, going to Gorman's <br />Sydney: Seeing famous paintings at National Gallery & meeting Gorman's <br />Jana: Bike race, the girls and I finding our way out of the city and meeting Gormans.<br />Scott: Seeing the road race and the house really existing!<br /><br /><br />A great quote on the side of a taxi..."Solutionism... the new optimism"<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3771.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3771.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Posted using BlogPress <br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Richmond,%20United%20Kingdom%4051.428679%2C-0.308402&z=10'>Richmond, United Kingdom</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-34080407441383632392012-07-27T13:45:00.000-07:002012-07-29T13:47:30.115-07:00Eye See London...Finally a morning to sleep in and hotel's buffet breakfast; yogurts, muesli, croissants, baked beans, grilled tomatoes & mushrooms and a cappuccino/coffee maker at the ready.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3232.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3232.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Train from Richmond Station to Waterloo to see Grandma & Grandpa Fortune at their hotel in the city, via walk along the Thames seeing all the vendors, hoards of people and feeling the Olympic buzz. Hard to know if a city this size is always this busy or the crowds are due to the Games.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3233.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3233.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Viewing screens along The Thames<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3234.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3234.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Saw these bikes just outside the station that you can rent cheap and return at locations throughout the city. Something we hope to do but need to get used to being in a big city first.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3235.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3235.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />These two Olympic Volunteers were kind and asked if we had any questions. Everyone has is so helpful!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3236.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3236.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Lunch at Grandma & Grandpa's hotel<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3237.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3237.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='211' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Grandma & Grandpa off too Opening Ceremonies so us off to the London Eye, where pleasantly surprised no lines! Amazing views of the city and beyond, so smooth cant even tell you are moving. Great opportunity to get bearings and learn about the different landmarks.<br /><br /> The car above us on the Eye<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3238.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3238.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Syd's token MVY t-shirt photo with Big Ben in the background<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3239.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3239.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Dinner on the run in the Fresh Food Farmers Market where every nationality <br />Represented; Sydney - Pierogi w/meat & veggie, Shelby - Crepe w/Ham & Cheese, Jana - Sampling of Greek, Scott - spinach & feta strudel and tastings of salads. Everything so beautiful and yummy.<br /><br />Race back to hotel via Underground, surprisingly slower than the train, to watch Opening Ceremonies.<br /><br />Not that is was important, but everyone wanted to know how London was going to try and match the $300M technology driven Beijing opening ceremonies. They pulled off a good down to earth people driven ceremonies that featured a lot of British history and music.<br /><br />The kids and I were hoping that they would have had Daniel Radcliff, Harry Potter, fly on a broom stick to light the torch. Nothing spectacular as seeing first hand the arrow light the torch in Barcelona. Now, not sure where the cauldron is going to be as it is currently in the middle of the stadium. We need our usual Olympic picture of us "holding" the torch. Stay tuned....<br /><br />Token London pics -<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3240.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3240.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3241.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3241.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3243.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3243.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Same but Different:<br /><br />Ambulances are yellow and the sirens are extremely loud. They come in varying sizes too.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3244.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3244.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Taxis most often look like this but of varying colors. Inside, they are roomy and have extra seats that fold down to hold more passengers.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/29/3245.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/29/s_3245.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />FPOD<br />Shelby: Seeing Grandma & Grandpa<br />Sydney: The London Eye!<br />Jana: Big Ben, people watching, London Eye & lunch with Gma & Gpa<br />Scott: London Eye and seeing my parents<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress <br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Richmond,%20Upon%20The%20Thames,%20UK%4051.428762%2C-0.308419&z=10'>Richmond, Upon The Thames, UK</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-8014758336024130482012-07-26T04:16:00.000-07:002012-08-02T16:07:22.456-07:00Beautiful Berne!*THIS WAS ONE OF OUR FAVORITE DAYS! Unfortunately the original post disappeared and this recreate doesn't do our time in Berne, with Jane and family justice.<br />Good Morning Berne! Quick walk to COOP Market for Jana & Sydney to get breakfast; croissants, yogurt, fruit...Back to the Common Room at "The Glocke", which had a surprisingly great kitchen, comfy couches & nice tables for meals. Next up, meeting Jane for a day of touring Berne.<br />View from our room...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3087.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3087.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Jane on her cool electric bike she commutes to/from work on!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3088.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3088.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Touring town on bikes, our new fave, especially because they loan for free in Berne, just have to leave a deposit. Here we are in front of the Parliament Building, their White House. Can you believe you can just ride right up to it, no guards, nada!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3089.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3089.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Jana could not get over these "underground" stores. Behind the cellar like doors are shops, cafes, small theatres.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3090.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3090.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Just visited the town bears for which the city is named after, Berne. The city was named after the first animal that was spotted by funders. We are across the city, overlooking the Aare River, where we're headed next to float!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3091.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3091.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />One of Jane's daughters Kim joined us for a lovely morning and to be our "float leader". She's delightful and had cool floaties too. Even locals use them as the current in the Aare are strong.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3092.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3092.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />So fun, let's do it again and again and again! <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3093.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3093.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We spent most of the day lounging riverside and before we knew it hundreds of others had filled in around us some on holiday, others taking their lunch break and even a quick float before going back to work.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3094.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3094.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This pool is next to the river and the grass area was where we sat and relaxed for hours. There's also a lap pool and it's all FREE! The Parliament Building is in the distance. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3095.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3095.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />An afternoon gelato before our goodbyes. It was nice to have Jacob, Jane's husband join us for part of the day. On his day off no less as Thursdays, doctors have the day off.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3096.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3096.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Loving filling up for free with fresh cold water! Note, despite Jana telling Syd repeatedly, filling up was o.k. Jane finally convinced her.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3097.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3097.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Tired and weary after Easy Jet flight from Basal, Switzerland to Gatwick Airport in London, England. At about 11:00pm....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3098.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3098.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Just after midnight and still figuring out trains to get to our hotel...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3099.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3099.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />SAME BUT DIFFERENT<br />LOVE the Swiss bike locks. So easy to use and no fuss with combos or the darn coils smacking you in the face.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3100.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3100.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Saw these recycling receptacles a few places in town. Each one for different types of rash. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/02/3101.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/02/s_3101.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD:<br />Shelby: Floating in the river and riding bikes<br />Sydney: Floating in the river!<br />Jana: Jane & Kim as tour guides, biking in Berne & relaxing @ the park<br />Scott: River float and riding bikes<br />EDITOR'S NOTE<br />Today was one of our longest travel days to date and we all felt the effects.<br />Within minutes of boarding the train in Berne, headed for Basal, there were tears, threats, a dramatic storming off and much of the remainder of the ride was in silence. Hopefully a good nights sleep will do us all some good. <br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Berne,%20Switzerland&z=10'>Berne, Switzerland</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-46745913612125840122012-07-25T13:31:00.000-07:002012-08-07T06:04:45.560-07:00Let's Hike to That!!!Seeing the top of Europe yesterday, we got the itch to do a hike to the top of Schilthorn. There is a 360 restaurant and viewing area where on a clear day you can see France and the Black Forest in Germany, along with the three peaks in the Swiss Alps. A James Bond movie and ski scene were filmed on Schilthorn. A little trampoline warmup in the back of the pension, as our goal is to make the peak behind Shelby called the Birg.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/993.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_993.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Sometimes, actually many times, I push the girls to their limits, as this was definitely one of those days. It will also be a hike to remember. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/994.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_994.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/995.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_995.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Having limited time to due the hike, as the train was leaving at 1:00, we decided to hike up the steep part head on. It was suppose to be a 2-3 hour hike to Birg and another hour to Schilthorn. Goal was to make it to the lake, so Sydney could swim.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/996.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_996.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Not sure of the total elevation we climbed, around 3,000 feet, and a true family effort to make it to the lake in two and a half hours. Absolutely amazing view and greenery to the lake. Sydney was boycotting going up the steep trail, so decided to climb up the creek rocks instead, as she is at peace with water.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/997.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_997.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Trudged through snow, rocks, meadows to make our goal of reaching the lake! Sydney jumped in and got her swim workout in with a couple of breastbone sets in 50 something degree ice water.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/998.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_998.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/999.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_999.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Running short on time, no Schilthorn this time, but determined at some point to come back and conquer. Brig provided a gondola down to the valley where we started our ascent. Although pictures might not do it justice, it was steep and glorious. Top of Birg with our tiny pension below.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1000.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1000.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1001.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1001.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Off to the train station, as it was another spectacular train passing by Lake Thun on our way to Berne. As our train approached the platform, it was a welcome sight to see Jane waiting for us as our welcoming party. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1002.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1002.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We have made it on our own for this part of the trip, but must say it was wonderful to have a local friend provide us a great dinner, history and politics of Switzerland. Very appreciative as they took us in and directed us to the hotel.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/08/07/1003.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/08/07/s_1003.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A long day, but also a proud moment to make it through such a difficult hike.<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress <br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Blumenthal,%20Switzlerland&z=10'>Blumenthal, Switzlerland</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-27898710009248925262012-07-24T02:43:00.000-07:002012-08-02T13:30:08.140-07:00The Top of Europe!Sometimes on a vacation or trip, the family has to rally up and early to see the best things in the world. Today was one of those days, despite the need and wanting to sleep in. So our day began at 7:00am sharp to experience the 100 year anniversary of the making of the Jungfrau express.<br />
Cog, train, funicular, train up to Wengen then to Klaise ???. <br />
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At the base station we load a train built 100 years ago that climbs to the top lookout in between Monch and Jungfrau. Two thirds of the train ride is a tunnel that carves through the face of the Eiger, where it stops to view the valley below via window in the tunnel. On up through glacier on the Monch and end up at the observation lookout on the back side of the Monch and Jungfrau. Unload out the tunnel to daylight, sun, on top of Europe, 11,350 feet. Needless to say, the Swiss are the best in the world in their various forms of transportation. <br />
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Views included the longest, highest glacier in Europe. Absolute stunning views of the Alps and the valley below. Hikes on the glacier and up to Monch via snow.<br />
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Everyone enjoyed the ice caves that included caves and sculptures of ice. Glorious photos on the snow and with the Swiss flag and mountains. The one negative side is that it was somewhat crowded even arriving on the first train, as there were abundance of Asian tour groups. Three and a half hours later back down the valley, brief stop in Lauterbrunnen to see a waterfall.<br />
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Jana has, in her hand, the observation deck where the previous picture was taken.<br />
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What is a Swiss trip without fondue? We walked down to Murren and gorged on cheese and various meats. Needless to say, Shelby and Dad loved the cheese fondue, while Sydney and Mom enjoyed the chicken, pork, and beef fondue. A wonderful Swiss meal and then a twenty minute walk straight UP to the pension. Murren only has a couple of cars in the city, so lots of walking. Perfect for digesting late dinners.<br />
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*When we were done with our fondue the waiter asked if we wanted to eat the broth. Apparently that's how they do it here; mix the left over bouillon with sherry and eat it up. Very yummy!<br />
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A full day to the top of the Europe and a great meal also our first successful travel tripod picture and one not so successful but it made for a good laugh!<br />
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FPOD<br />
Shelby: All of it but especially fondue, walk home with Mommy and all of our time at Jungfrau.<br />
Sydney: Ice cave and meat fondue.<br />
Jana: Walk to town for fondue.<br />
Scott: Top of Europe, Jungfrau, cheese fondue.<br />
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<br />4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-60084922691257716692012-07-23T08:41:00.000-07:002012-07-25T14:02:17.745-07:00The Hills Are Alive with the sound of cow bells!Blumenthal, Switzerland - Pension Sonnenberg<br /><br />Waking to the sound of cow bells, a hundred or so in the hills above ain't all bad. Neither is this view from our window. We have to keep reminding ourselves it's real and not a screensaver!<br /><br />Traditional Swiss breakfast with muesli, yogurt, bread and preserves and then off on a leisurely hike. Up and over the beautiful hills for panoramic views of Murren and Lauterbrunnen Valley. All the while The Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau Mountains calling to us for a visit. They will have to wait until tomorrow. Today was about fresh cheese and leisurely strolls! It's a vacation after all!<br /><br />Pension Sonnenberg - our room is on the far right.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3401.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3401.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Just above our pension<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3402.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3402.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3403.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3403.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3404.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3404.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3405.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3405.jpg' border='0' width='211' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This one's for you April!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3406.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3406.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />After a snack of fresh cheese, salamis and vanilla milkshake at the house below, Scott and Sydney walked back the way we came documenting all the different gates we'd encountered.....Over 14 different styles of gates, latches, levers, etc.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3407.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3407.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3408.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3408.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Cheese presses<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3409.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3409.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Shelby and Jana took the low road back to Murren and then the Cog up to Blumenthal. Everything is so well marked with estimated times to get where you're going.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3410.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3410.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Jana & Shelby walking on the low road<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3411.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3411.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3412.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3412.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The afternoon found Scott & Jana wanting to explore the lower valley on bikes. It was clear all Fortunes were not enthusiastic about said plan so the girls stayed at the Pension while Jana and Scott went their separate ways; Scott to Interlaken for biz while Jana grocery shopped in Murren.<br /><br />Jana loved her outing to the COOP (You say COOP we say CO OP) Grocery Store. So fun to compare products, see new things, etc. The store was so efficient; you print your own labels for produce, bag your own and at check out and the cashier directs where your groceries so as you are bagging, the next customer can be rung up.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3413.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3413.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3414.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3414.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A beautiful dusk on the patio reading while the girls whittled and played their version of the Hunger Games - "The Swiss Games". Fortunately they both came back alive for dinner!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3415.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3415.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/25/3416.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/25/s_3416.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />FPOD<br />Shelby: Hike for fresh cheese, reenacting Hunger Games and walking with Mom.<br />Sydney: Waking up to a beautiful view, reenactment of Hunger Games & reading on my Kindle on the trampoline with the cows all around.<br />Jana: Walking time with each of the girls, grocery shopping & reading on the patio.<br />Scott: Hike to cheese house, lunch on the patio with Jungfrau & Monch in the background.<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Bir%20Mittleren%20Tili,Lauterbrunnen,Switzerland%4046.563153%2C7.881670&z=10'>Bir Mittleren Tili,Lauterbrunnen,Switzerland</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com2Baroald 1081, 3825 Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland46.56434 7.8971146.5629755 7.8946425 46.5657045 7.8995774999999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-24443588965234524342012-07-22T13:33:00.000-07:002012-07-23T14:19:24.956-07:00The Way(s) We Roll...through SwitzerlandLucerne > Mt. Pilatus > Lucerne > Interlaken > Murren<br /><br />Today we traveled by train, cog wheel, funicular, gondola, zip line, toboggan, city bus, taxi and our two feet. <br /><br />We started early to get to Mt. Pilatus to avoid crowds and to maximize the allotted 3 hours on the ropes course we've been promising Shelby. Although the clouds were socked in preventing views of Lake Lucerne and the valley and of tops of the mountains, none of it was disappointing.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3024.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3024.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3026.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3026.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Worlds steepest cog, 47% climb a majority of the time, although pictures can't do it justice. Straight up from the base of the mountain lake level, to 7000 feet elevation above the clouds.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3028.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3028.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3029.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3029.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3030.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3030.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hike to the top of Mt. Platus early morning above the clouds.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3031.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3031.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />One happy man! <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3032.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3032.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='211' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />One happy girl react to do the ropes course and zip line!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3033.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3033.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Swiss alp rope park, fun but yet the scariest thing I have done. We conquered the Easy and a level of the Medium, but didn't get close to the Hard. Awesome zip lining and tobogganing too.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3034.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3034.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3035.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3035.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3036.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3036.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Down by gondola, back to Lucerne, then off on an absolute stunning train to Interlaken. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3037.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3037.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Upon arriving in Murren we told the girls they got to figure out the connecting trains for the rest of the day and and find our hotel. <br /><br />First, stop fighting over who holds the ticket. Second, read for connecting train times, platforms, etc.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3038.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3038.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Third, remember hotel name and find it on the sign.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3039.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3039.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Fourth, find hotel in the map.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3040.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3040.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Fifth, start walking!!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3041.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3041.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Didn't want to stay at the base of the Eiger, Jungfrau, or Monch, so train up to furnicular, another train to Murren. Unfortunately missed the last cog up the mountain to our Pension above Murren, but were saved by a passing Swiss family with a cell phone that not only is friends with the pension's owner, but also has the only taxi driver in Murren on speed dial! <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3042.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3042.jpg' border='0' width='211' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Amazing to arrive at Pension Sonnenberg to see the Swiss and California flags waving hello. Turns out the owner Steve is from Santa Cruz and has been here for 28 years. He reminds us so much of Uncle! Steve showed us our room and let us dinner was ready when we were!<br /><br />First course Homemade Vegetable Soup & Bread and "syrup" for Shelby.<br />It taste like crystal light or Kool Aid.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3043.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3043.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Main Course: Bratwurst Loaf w/grilled onions, pomme frittes & green beans.<br />Dessert was homemade banana bread with coconut pudding and it was good!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3044.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3044.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This is the view from our room at 8:30pm. The town of Murren is way down below!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3045.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3045.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD<br />Shelby: The ropes course, toboggan ride and views of Mt. .<br />Sydney: Mt. Pilatus and arriving at the Pension and seeing where we are staying.<br />Jana: Seeing amazing views, watching my daring kids, going fast on the toboggan and the views on the train.<br />Scott: Steepest cog, climb Mt. Pilatus, ropes course & toboggan<br /><br /><br />Word/Sign of The Day: We're pretty sure it means "central parking" and that it's open to anyone as long as they put money in the meter.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/3046.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_3046.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Lucerne%20&z=10'>Lucerne </a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-38771853208270259892012-07-21T01:01:00.000-07:002012-07-23T08:42:41.765-07:00"Butts Up" In LucerneHeidelberg, Germany > Lucerne, Switzerland<br />All smiles upon arriving in Lucerne bout 8:30pm. <br />AlWhat's happens after you spend a full day site seeing, ride a train with a few connecting trains and arrive in a new city at night, when it's raining and your hungry and, well you get the idea.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/92.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_92.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Minutes later, moods and energy levels changed as we couldn't find an info desk, a place to exchange money and we had no idea where our hotel was except we'd been told "close". And then came the rain...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/93.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_93.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Walking to our hotel...<br />Amazing how bunk beds can improve moods considerably!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/101.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_101.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Scott and Jana left the girls to shower and went back to the grocery store in the train station (about 5 blocks) to get "dinner". Too pathetic to really warrant a picture but there was breads, meats & cheeses and a salad or two and we all ate in our respective bunks.<br />Saturday morning found us sleeping in, so much we missed all the specialty morning sweet treats at Heini's Cafe (a chain we later find out) but managed to enjoy the basics on the menu; caffes and hot chocolates and croissants that greet you as you sit down. We had to do some heavy convincing for Syd to believe they were on the table for us to eat. <br />Look how nice the Swiss are, and clean, storage for wet umbrellas at the entrance.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/102.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_102.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Next stop, chocolate tasting! We sent the family conniseurs...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/103.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_103.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />So many chocolates to choose from!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/104.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_104.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Ironically, many of these are sold at home. However, they don't look nearly as beautiful or expensive on Albertson's shelves!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/105.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_105.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />"Thank you Karen & Jim! Look what I got! My very own Swiss Army knife in Switzerland engraved with my name. I got the Camper's version." Love, Shelby<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/106.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_106.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Another beautiful building we saw as we turned a corner in town. Turns out it's The Collegiate and Parish Church of St. Leger in the Court Lucerne and the front is a landmark of Lucerne. It was built after a fire in 1633.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/107.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_107.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This ones for you Grandma Dorothy!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/108.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_108.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/109.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_109.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A beautiful walk along Lake Lucerne to The Automotive Museum despite the girls arguing. Flowers in bloom all around, lush greens, no trash and peaceful.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/110.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_110.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/111.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_111.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/112.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_112.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />From the minute we arrived at the Swiss Museum of Transport, we knew it was going awesome! According to brochures, it's Switzerland's most visited museum and now we know why. The front desk clerk at our hotel recommended it and we figured what the heck since rain was predicted, we've got an hour or so spare. Well, 4 1/2 hours later, we still hadn't seen everything but what we did see and experience we sure did enjoy; <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/113.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_113.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Outside of the Automobile Exhibit<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/114.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_114.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />And inside, cars stacked in several racks. When a visitor selects a car, it's brought down via hydraulic lifts and showcased in front of visitors while a video about the car plays on a big screen. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/115.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_115.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This area let kids do construction and mining<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/116.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_116.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Our interactive experience in the Flight & Aerospace - Jana sleeping in first class.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/117.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_117.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Not only was there a Planetarium, history of Trains, interactive maps, simulators galore and more, they loan visitors umbrellas for free when it rains. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/118.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_118.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Oh and did I mention you can ride scooters all around and embarrass your children?!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/119.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_119.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />In the end, double thumbs up and a big thanks Mom & Dad!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/120.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_120.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Random sculpture on walk to the dock for our boat ride back to Downtown<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/121.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_121.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/122.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_122.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The Chapel Bridge or Kapellbrucke as The Swiss call it, was constructed in the first half of the 14th century as part of the city's fortifications. Named after nearby St. Peter's Chapel. The paintings added inside the eaves of the bridge in the 17th century illustrate scenes of Swiss and local history including biographies of the city's patrons saints, Leodegar and Mauritius.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/123.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_123.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Jana saw this tower off in the distance and thought she saw people on it so we walked towards it and so glad we did! <br />It turns out it is called Museggmauer Musegg Wall. It was built in 1386 and contains the oldest city clock; built in 1535 by Hans Luter. This clock has the privilege to chime one minute before every other clock in the city every hour.<br />Most of the wall built to protect the city is intact; we walked along much of it on our way back to the city.<br />Our run in with a bachelor party. Yep, I paid 5 francs to wax his back.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/124.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_124.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />And then later, we see this bachelorette party. These Swiss girls did it up, with costumes and a big paper mâché piggy bank. The bride was selling small bottles of alcohol and would put her earnings in piggy bank on the rolling cart.<br />Sydney would not let me leave our table to ask abut the costumes or buy a drink. Apparently I'd already reached my embarrassing acts quota (See Below) for the day. Could it be, these two Swiss folk could be destined for happily ever after together? <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/125.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_125.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Sydney would not let me leave our table to ask abut the costumes or buy a drink. Apparently I'd already reached my embarrassing acts quota (See Below) for the day. Could it be, these two Swiss folk could be destined for happily ever after together? <br />Outside our hotel - Hotel Falken<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/126.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_126.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />FPOD (Favorite Part of the Day)<br />Shelby: The museum and seeing all the modes of transport. Leaning the history made it interesting.<br />Sydney: Definitely the museum and how interacting it was.<br />Jana: Walking along Lake Lucerne despite the girls bickering.<br />Scott: Enjoying a relaxing day, buying chocolate and being pleasantly surprised by how fun the museum was.<br />Best line of the day, Scott to the girls: "I'm,very "lucerned" about the weather preventing us from doing the rope park tomorrow."<br />Inspiration for today's blog title....All the swans go "butts up" when looking for food.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/23/127.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/23/s_127.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />NOTED: We must get food before we think we need! Deciding where to have dinner when everyone is hungry and tired does not go well.<br />How many times Jana embarrassed Syd today:<br />*Crashed first "Kasse" on the train (First class). The ticket guy let us stay!<br />*Riding the scooter at the museum <br />*Tried exiting through the enter turnstile <br />*Waxed a man's back<br />Posted using BlogPress <br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Lucerne,%20Switzerland&z=10'>Lucerne, Switzerland</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-78815982044977386312012-07-20T01:13:00.000-07:002012-07-23T13:45:18.479-07:00Delighted by HeidelbergFor a quick re-cap, yesterday's travel to Heidelberg was by train once we landed in Frankfurt. The trains and their efficiency are a novelty to us and so far we're loving them.<br /><br />Morning came early for us, 4am to be exact. Apparently experiencing some jet lag, time change affects. We packed up, stripped our beds and waited until 7:30 for our continental breakfast. A nice spread, self service including washing and drying your own dishes. Funny, our kids don't even do that at home! Today I washed, Syd dried.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/107.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_107.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Good morning Heidelberg! View from our room.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/108.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_108.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Scott taking a picture of us from below. Can you find us?<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/109.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_109.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The breakfast room at our hostel. Felt like we were living in an Ikea display!<br /><br />Quick stop at the market for some snacks. It was conveniently located on the bottom floor of our hostel. Surprised no peanut butter to be found. Hmmmm? A walk across the street to the train station to reserve seats for afternoon train and purchase tickets for walking tour of Old Town Heidelberg. Then, the best part, renting bikes.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/110.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_110.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A few familiars; pretzels, almonds & gummy bears and a few new things to try.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/111.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_111.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The bikes had chain guards and fenders, which were much appreciated in the rain.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/112.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_112.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This is how we got Shelb's going...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/113.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_113.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was so fun to pedal the route we walked last night. Drivers are so friendly to cyclists. No honking or driving to close to them. The girls did great, especially Shelby who had to ride an adult bike. The first few times she needed a push start and we had to "catch" her when she wanted to stop but by the end of the day she was a pro!<br /><br />Guided Walking tour of the Old Town for some history and architecture and then a quick lunch followed by some drizzle while we walked up the Philosophenweg. The trail gets its name from the fact the Heidelberg Philosophers and professors are said to have walked and talked here enjoying the above city views.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/114.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_114.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/115.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_115.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/129.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_129.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It was interesting to learn that in years when the water levels have been high and even flooded the city, they mark the water levels on the side of the building. October 1789 was not a good month!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/130.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_130.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/131.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_131.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Half way up Philosophenweg<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/132.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_132.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />At the top!<br /><br />Favorite parts of the day:<br />Shelby: Riding bikes<br />Sydney: Hiking Philosopher's Hill<br />Jana: Riding bikes<br />Scott: Riding bikes and being philosophical on Philosopher's Hill<br /><br />Word of the Day: danke = thank you in German<br /><br />Same but Different: <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/133.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_133.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Crosswalks buttons are underneath so you push up not in. Also, bikes are the norm here however NO ONE wears helmets. During our entire day out of riding we probably only saw two other people wearing helmets, probably other American tourists or transplants. It's amazing how safe you feel riding, you just sense the cars are being mindful of you. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/21/134.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/21/s_134.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This ones for you Sarah - we sandwiched up for lunch - nothing fancy but a yummy sandwich of tomato, mozzarella, eggplant and pesto on the freshest bread I've had In a long time with onion rings. The girls had cheeseburgers and of course, pomme frites.<br /><br /><br />Posted using BlogPress from Scott's iPad<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Heidelberg%20%4049.404301%2C8.676010&z=10'>Heidelberg </a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-30228999868212006012012-07-19T14:22:00.001-07:002012-07-19T14:22:01.372-07:00We've Arrived in HeidelbergArriving at Steffi's Hostel in Heidelberg marks the end of 18 hours of travel and found us all a bit grumpy. We were laughing by the end, arriving at the hostel to find three flights of stairs to walk up! That turned out to be the easy part, negotiating who got top bunk, another story. Oh yeah, turns out there is an elevator!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/19/2744.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/19/s_2744.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/19/2745.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/19/s_2745.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Quick nap and off to dinner. Tonight, I'm happy to report we went 4-4 with great dinner selections and had a fantastic night in Heidelberg strolling the streets, admiring architecture, the greenery and sampling gelato! So far, Heidelberg gets high marks in our book and we're excited for what tomorrow brings.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/19/2746.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/19/s_2746.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/19/2747.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/19/s_2747.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Beautiful night sky at 9:30p.m.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/19/2748.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/19/s_2748.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Shelby: Eating dinner as a family and trying Schnitzel for the first time and walking along the river.<br />Sydney: Walking around taking pictures and seeing the similarities and differences between here and home.<br />Jana: Seeing Sydney so excited and our family walk through town seeing all the cafes and beautiful buildings.<br />Scott: Strolling along Nekar River and seeing the castle<br /><br />Word of the Day: ausgang = exit<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/19/2749.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/19/s_2749.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='211' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Tackiest thing we saw - A knife "block" to hold knives. Looks like that knife thrower needs more training!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/19/2750.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/19/s_2750.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Frankfurt,Germany%4050.052902%2C8.569913&z=10'>Frankfurt,Germany</a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-80147221850203640932012-07-19T13:50:00.001-07:002012-07-19T20:35:02.459-07:00And They're Off!Seems like a fitting title for a post on what is opening day at Del Mar Race Track (I can hear Gam Man singing to me as I type).<br />We, the Fortune Four, had a vacation kick off dinner at Terra last night which of course included the, "you are four years older than the last time we did a trip like this and therefore, we expect you to" talk...<br />*Be flexible,<br />*Be adventurous and open to new things AND foods<br />*Be patient and responsible<br />We lost them early on but what the hell, we said our peace.<br />Jana, always ready with a question offered this one - What are you most looking forward to on our trip?<br />Shelby: Seeing Women's soccer <br />Sydney: All the cities & Olympic venues we'll see and not sitting next to Shelby on the plane.<br />Jana: Hiking in Switzerland, Bike tour in Paris and Olympic events<br />Scott: Seeing London and staying in the Swiss Alps<br />After dinner, last Target run for Jana - lots of rain forecasted so heavy duty rain ponchos a must! Typed up directions to navigate our house for The Casserleys and made some chocolate cookies to welcome them.<br />Uncle Todd delivered us to the airport and the adventure begins!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/19/2563.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/19/s_2563.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='254' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Here's hoping we make all connections in tact, speaking to one another and with all our luggage! Stay tuned...<br />*Please note, the small in nature size of our suitcases and that Scott's is the biggest. Partly because we don't own another small one and also He is carrying ponchos, hiking boots and other extras for the. Not too shabby for packing for but for mine and the girls part we did a good job meeting Scott's challenge of packing for 3+ weeks in a carry on.<br />-Posted using BlogPress from my Scott's iPad<br /><br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=San%20Diego%20&z=10'>San Diego </a></p>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6389701647807786511.post-31437978890312350602012-07-16T22:45:00.000-07:002012-07-16T22:45:29.653-07:00Almost Ready To Go<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Less than 48 hours until we leave for our trip to Germany, Switzerland, London & Paris. The girls are packed and have walked the block wearing their new suitcase/backpacks and for once Jana's suitcase is 90% done with time to spare! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still some some last minute things to do/get before we leave but for the most part we're in good shape. The biggest thing left to do is get our house in order for the family of four from London that will be staying at our house. So yes, we did secure a house swap, however it's taken on quite a life of its own. It goes something like this:</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We're staying at the Gorman's outside of London</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Gorman's are going to NYC</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Casserly Family is staying at our house </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">AND an unnamed San Diego family is staying at the Casserly's.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I highly recommend <a href="http://HomeExchange.com/">HomeExchange.com</a> for your next vacation. An unexpected upside, it's amazing the projects that get done in preparation for total strangers coming to stay in one's house! </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>4 Fortuneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03648036372576212795noreply@blogger.com1