Kaitlin concentrating for the perfect angle
Today was a nice, slow day. Which was great after all the excitement of seeing old friends and watching new ones learn to play pool. Elana, Kaitlin, Alesha and I found this great local pub not far from the center. While we went in for a pint, Elana and Kaitlin got pulled into a friendly game of pool. Elana and her British teammate unfortunately beat Kaitlin and her Welsh partner. Elana's shot was pretty astounding but Kaitlin was good competition.
Ellie admiring St. Paul's Cathedral.
16th/17th century; it's been rebuilt 4 or 5 times.
After all the excitement, I was completely exhausted. I'm still coming off of jetlag so at night, around 11 and later, I still feel pretty awake because back home in the Midwest, its only about 5. I think I'm finally starting to get into London time, so hopefully last night will have been my last strange sleep.
Luckily, we went on a couch tour this morning, so great bursts of energy were not necessary. It was a great tour; we had a very nice and helpful tour guide name Liz. We basically saw the historical parts of London, namely the Village of Westminster and the Village of London. These villages represent two of the oldest parts of London: roman ruins and 16th/17th foundations. I can't describe the amount of stuff we saw; it was overwhelming. I do know that I want to go back to the Parliament next weekend and get proper tour of the buildings, a suggestion from Liz.
Ellie gazing over the very large crowd
in front of Buckingham Palace this morning.
My favorite part, and very stereotypically American tourist, was seeing the changing of the guards. We don't really have anything quite the ceremonial in the United States so it was really interesting to watch. The palace guards, who stand guard in front of Buckingham Palace, St James's and the residence of the Queen Mother's which is now offices for the princes, are true soldiers. They will eventually go to fight in any of the countries that Britain currently has companies stationed. Liz told us that these soldiers who have to participate in the changing of the guard are not very happy being a tourist magnet. That's completely understandable; its hard to be gawked for no other reason than marching. As much as I sympathize, it was really awesome to such a great display. 
Under the Sphnix on the ThamesWe had the rest of the day free and I took it easy. I finished up some homework for another class and just relaxed. Around 4, Kaitlin and I went to shoe shopping and then headed for the Thames with Elana. It was nice to meander along the streets and next to the Thames. We mostly just chatted and strolled. It was such a beautiful day and we weren't in any hurry. For me, that's a great afternoon.
Ellie saying hi to Big Ben
