They are the parents of a dear friend of mine that I met in high school in the Philippines. It had been almost 15 years since I had seen them. They moved to Oxford about ten years ago, and it was really fun to relax at their house and for Amelia to get some surrogate grandparent time from “Auntie Nonnie” and “Uncle Poppie.” It was great for us, too! Chuck and Anita took us on a walking tour all around Oxford. Since Chuck works for the University of Oxford, we were able to get in and see a lot of areas we wouldn’t have had access too otherwise. I was having some camera drama, but here are some of the pictures that turned out pretty well, and others that I took with my phone when my battery died.
I was already wishing I could re-do my college experience in these gorgeous buildings…
But when I saw the dining hall, it was simply too much! I squandered my college days eating in lame cafeterias… No wonder the food tasted so bad!
Jeff was also totally dazzled by this historic city.
And Amelia made time for a little street music.
And the weather was absolutely gorgeous!
So after spending the first day with old friends, we headed out on Sunday to meet some brand new friends! I have loved blogging for so many reasons, and have made a lot of wonderful connections through the blog world. But Sunday was a first– I contacted a fellow blogger living in Oxford, to see if she would like to get together. Sarah and Jake moved to England a month after we did, and also have a really fun little girl. Sarah recommended that we meet at the Natural History Museum, and I am so glad we did! It was super cool, and free. We had fun looking at everything there, and will definitely have to go back.
Outside, Amelia demonstrates the type of architecture we’ve been seeing.
Amazing collection of previously living things inside the museum.
Afterwards, we went for lunch at The Eagle and Child, a nearby pub famous for being a favorite and meeting place for J. R. R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. After a good lunch and lots of talk, we wandered around some more, thoroughly enjoying the company of another couple who has chosen similar adventures. We eventually had to head home, but we left very happy, having spent so much time with a range of really great people. Being a foreigner in a new country can be very lonely at times, and this weekend was full of good company and conversation. And Oxford is such a beautiful and interesting city– we can’t wait to go back for more!
It was wonderful to spend time with your lovely little family. Looking forward to seeing you again – this time, in your neck of the woods! Hugs!
Sarah, did you notice that both of our posts have the same street musician?!
So fun to see both yours and Sarah’s blogs! what a nice week-end! Love you.
Looks like you guys had a great time. I did a tour of England and we were there for only a few hours. It was cold and gray and most things were closed, so it wasn’t so great for me. Glad ya’ll had a better time.
The picture of the dining hall is amazing. I love the window. The Eagle and Child was the highlight of our trip. Beer and heat was a boon after walking out in the gray wet.
Beautiful photos, and it sounds as if you had a fantastic time! I love Oxford–I’ve just been once, but I watch episodes of “Inspector Morse” and “Lewis” frequently to get glimpses of this gorgeous place.
Hausfrau– I haven’t seen either of those shows… I will have to check them out. It was kind of mind-blowing, how much important history happened in that city. Definitely more than could be taken in in just two days! I look forward to going back.
I am amazed by your blog, and where you have been. And I see Oxford too! The man playing music with your daughter in the photo , is still there, saw him today:-) It is very interesting to read the blogs of people new to England, to see what they make of it.