Meeting Ella

Magic flight from San Fransisco to London, it was so smooth, but we still didn't sleep.  Unfortunately the landing at Heathrow was anything but smooth.  Even though we had a hassle checking our bags back in San Fran, they were the first ones off the baggage claim.  Can't believe how easy the whole entry process was.

Ella met us and it was so, so good to be able to give her a hug.  She had driven to collect us so didn't even have to negotiate public transport with our heavy bags.  Driving back to her home was amazing, especially as she knew where she was going and we had absolutely no idea.

So nice to see her world in real life - Queens Park is right across the road and the spring blossoms are starting to appear in all their glory.  This part of London has so many open spaces and certainly has more of a village feel about it.  

We managed to rustle up enough energy to walk to the local supermarket to get something for dinner and then bed was well and truly calling us.  That really is an epic journey, especially without any sleep.

After a decent sleep and waking up to sunshine, the world looked like a different place.  Apparently the dogs barked like crazy, but we didn't hear a thing!  We went to see Ella's friend Nina and went for around Hammersmith, where Ella used to live.  Found a street with amazing coloured terrace houses, a little reminiscent of the painted ladies in San Fransisco.  

We had heard lots about the delicious spring rolls that the housekeeper made and she kindly offered to cook us some for lunch - they were just as delicious as had been described.  Sun is shining and it's time to venture out, otherwise the dreaded jet lag will catch up with us again.