22 December 2006

Grandpa Mack and Grandma Brenda

Ben's parents arrived on Tuesday -- they arrived at Gatwick Airport (south of London), took the Underground to King's Cross, the train to Durham (about 3 hours), and then a cab to our house. They did well. The boys were both in school on Wednesday so we had planned to check out Durham Castle and the Cathedral . Unfortunately the Castle is closed until after the new year and the Cathedral wasn't giving their guided tours because of the busy time of year (with all the Christmas services). We had a good look around the Cathedral on our own and Ben showed them around different parts of the University. They were also able to see Silas' school when they picked him up.

Yesterday, we had a relaxed morning and then Ben , Grandma, and Grandpa headed over to E's school for their Christmas Eucharist service. After that E was able to give them a tour of his classroom and his school. Then, John Barclay (Ben's PhD advisor) came to pick us up and took us to his house for "proper British tea". It was very nice... his wife Diana is a fabulous cook. We enjoyed a French Yule Log (chocolate cake with hazelnuts), English crumpets, and Scottish shortbread.

Not sure of the plans for today , but I think tomorrow we are going to try to get the train somewhere. We need to do a bit of research to see what is likely to be open 2 days before Christmas. We are debating whether we should go north up the coastline, south to York, or just up to Newcastle and maybe to Hadrian's wall.


Here are a few pics of the castle:

5 comments:

The Chandler's said...

Looks and sounds like you all are having a wonderful time. A trip of a lifetime I must say. I am glad to hear that Aunt Brenda and Uncle Mack made it fine. I hope that you all continue to have a great time and absorb all the surroundings because it look beautiful so far. Everything is fine with Maw. Mother took her to the doctor on Tuesday, first thing because of another bladder infection but is better now. She is on antibiotics. Maw will be going to Sandra's tomorrow. Michelle and family will be there too. I have copied and pasted your blog entry about Brenda to email so that mother can keep up with what all you guys are doing. She can't view the blog at her work. I hope that works.

Love You Guys -- Cousin Cindy

-C said...

sounds so fun! can we come?

the blackwells said...

-C -- You all are welcome anytime!!! You can camp out in our "lounge".

Anonymous said...

Heather - you've got to get the recipe for the French Yule Log (chocolate cake with hazelnuts). That sounds yummy! Do they eat Nutella over there (it's chocolate and hazelnut too). I love that stuff!! Enjoy your company!
Aunt Karyn

the blackwells said...

Oh yes...you can never find big jars of peanut butter here, but big jars of Nutella are quite easy to come by...very dangerous!