Let’s Go to London
We were packed and ready for Christmas in London. As we were leaving early on the 24th, we decided that Xavi would open his presents on our return to Cambridge after Boxing Day.
Surround yourself with People who feel like Sunlight
Our bus and train trips flowed smoothly and soon enough we were in London enveloped in the welcome embrace of family. Everyone was super excited to see Xavi as it was the first time most of them were meeting him. Before long we were all chatting and laughing as if we had just seen each other the day before. I was suddenly feeling the magic and warmth of the season. It had eluded me in the days and weeks leading up to the big day.
Second cousins
Our search for Christmas Ham
As we chatted, I asked “Is ham on the menu?” My mouth dropped as I realized there was no Christmas ham. A situation my brother in law and I agreed should be rectified. So along with our host (Nash’s cousin), we ventured out on Christmas Eve in search of Christmas ham. We were optimistic that we would be lucky. The streets were busy in the area we shopped as persons tried to pick up last minute items for meals and gifts. Vendors at the market tried to sell the last of their fruits and vegetables as customers eagerly took advantage of last minute deals. We too took the opportunity to grab some goodies.
At the first store we went to in search of ham the clerk shook his head – no hams! No luck at the second shop either! My brother in law and I were ready to give up, but my cousin-in-law was determined. Three shops later we conceded defeat. There would be no ham on the menu. I was happy as we gave the search our best shot. I knew there was goat meat on the menu, so I still super excited about Christmas in London.
Christmas in London
Christmas in London dawned as dreary as ever but there was complete sunshine in the house as we were surrounded by family. My cousin-in-law made us a big Jamaican breakfast which was so delicious. It included ackee and saltfish, dumplings (festivals), boiled corn and ground provisions and boiled eggs. We gave thanks for all God’s goodness and mercy before we dug in. I was so stuffed I wasn’t sure I would be able to have Christmas lunch. Then we opened presents. Everyone got presents not just Xavi so that was awesome!
Yummy Breakfast
Christmas lunch was delicious and like those in the rest of the world fortunate to have plenty of food, I ate too much. My cousin-in-law is a fantastic cook who likes to cook alone. She created a feast for the family. We ate, chilled, chatted, watched movies, listened to music, took pictures and did not leave the house. It was a perfect day.
Christmas smiles
Exploring London on Boxing Day
On Boxing Day, I started my day with a full meal of Christmas leftovers for breakfast and then we all headed out. Our first stop was The 02. There are so many great things to do there from trampolining to bowling but we couldn’t do it all.
Family – Nash was photographer!
Hollywood Bowl at O2
After a yummy lunch at Nando’s we headed next door and hopped on board the Emirates Airline Cable Car to view the River Thames and parts of East London from above. I have been to London a few times but there is always something that I have never done.
The Johnson Men
East London from above
We had a full schedule, so our next stop was the London Eye and we spotted Big Ben in the distance. If you visit The London Eye, be sure to check out the free 4D movie!
London Eye
Winter Wonderland
The sun had set but the day was still young. Our last stop was Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. It was beautiful, busy and festive. There was so much to see, do and eat!
Winter Wonderland
Winter Wonderland
We had fun but after a few hours Xavi was super tired and it was time to call it a day. I am grateful that it was a mild winter day and night so even though we spent a lot of time outdoors we were comfortable. We arrived home after 10pm where I had yet another Christmas leftovers meal to top off a truly beautiful day with wonderful people. It was the perfect way to end a beautiful mini-holiday as we were heading back to Cambridge the following day.
While I missed my family in Anguilla and of course the sunshine, I am grateful for family here who made our Christmas in London and Boxing Day truly special. I hope you too had a festive Christmas of family, friends, food and fun.
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I’ll see you guys in 2019 God willing! Wishing you a New Year filled with everything that is wonderful.
Xoxo
Shelly
