Happy Christmas!!!

We had a wonderful Christmas as a family this year, and we stayed in London so we get to enjoy Boxing Day tomorrow. Two Holidays in a row, what could be better?

We hope you all had very enjoyable Holiday experiences, and best wishes for the New Year.

By the way, we finally allowed the cats to try catnip this year. Under close supervision they did okay for a few hours. But, we haven't seen them in the last 5, so they obviously didn't know when to say when.

Thanksgiving Weekend

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We couldn't believe that this was our second Thanksgiving here in London. We spent the holiday with our friends and fellow ex pats, Dave, Velana, Jeff and Jessica. Dave and Velana were so kind to host and make all of the traditional Thanksgiving foods! Everything was delicious!

The rest of the weekend we spent getting ready for Christmas! We bought a cute little fake tree and had a great time decorating the tree and our flat. Although we are sad not to be coming home for the holidays, we are thrilled about our upcoming arrival! We hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and we will be thinking of you!

Spa Day

Esther and Laurel were so kind to throw me a spa day baby shower!! We had so much fun. It was an afternoon full of pampering, delicious food (including M & M cookies, yum!), and wonderful company. I am so thankful for these special friends I have met here in London!!Thank you all so much for being a part of the day! Esther and Laurel, what an event- thank you so much for such a fantastic day!



Esther and Velana

Laurel and Anne

Kris

Anna and Jill

Anna and Anne

A Little Sun and Snow Makes the Baby Grow

Just a few pictures of our recent adventure across town! We finally made it up to Regents Park and Primrose Hill, which are in London but feel miles away. We were happy to see the sun and surprised to see the snow!!

Check out the belly on this one!

Bright and Sunny Brighton

For the last warm weekend in England (until June) we decided to take our first trip to the English coast. So the four of us (Mike, Annie and the two of us) headed south to Brighton for the day, which is only about an hour away. It was nice to see the water, the pier and sunny skies. What we didn't expect was a cute little town with a gigantic palace in the middle of it. The Royal Pavilion was truly royal until Queen Victoria sold it to the city of Brighton for a song (the palace wasn't her cup of tea). In the next several weeks we hope to get out of London more and experience the English countryside.

Flat Crawl

This weekend we had our first ever flat crawl! This entailed moving from flat to flat in our building, working our way to the top, where each flat prepared some delicious food to share with everyone. It was SO much fun and we hope to do it again very soon. We feel extremely lucky to have such amazing neighbors. We sure lucked out!

We started at Alex and Alex's where we had a German feast- sausage, pasta salad and pretzels, yum!! It was truly an authentic Frankfurt treat!



We then moved on to Jill and Kanna's where we ate delicious curry chicken wraps and veggies. Jill, I would love your chicken recipe!!!



We were then on our way to our flat where we had chocolate fondue. I ate so much choclate, Baby S was pinging around my stomach until the wee hours of the morning.



Our final stop was at Anne and Sandy's. We finished with a beautiful cheese spread with dried fruit and olives. What a way to polish off the night of delicious eating. And there were even pasteurized cheeses!!



Thanks so much everyone for such a fun evening- we had a lovely time!!!

Nils Goes Home

That is, to Norway, where he reconnected with his roots.


After a lovely time showing Russell and Joanne around London, the four of us were off to Oslo, Norway. Norway is just beautiful and what a treat to be able to see this part of the world!

We started off our trip touring around the Sentrum of Oslo, exploring the differences and similarities with other major cities. One difference which we weren't prepared for was the cost of everything, especially coming from London. Lets just say we can give some good tips on free parking behind the Royal Palace and Embassy Row. And also, don't worry about the "toll booths" as you can't pay even if you want to (the bill will come later). The pizza (we couldn't help ourselves before taking the picture) came in at $40, and the lovely hot chocolate you see was a steamy $9, and the ONE beer Nils had was a gulp inducing $ 17. The 25% tax doesn't help, but its worth it for the Norway experience.

You can see in the pictures below that we visited the adorable village of Drobak known for its Christmas history, where mail from children is delivered from around the world (we noticed, Japan, Russia, USA, etc.) to Julenissen (the Norweigan Santa Claus -check out this site for more info http://www.emb-norway.ca/facts/Traditions/Christmas/julenissen.htm).

We also went to some lesser known places, including the best Mexican restaurant in Norway and the Resistance Museum. The history of Norway is truly amazing, and Nils was ready to jump into the viking ships and head off to sea.

We had a wonderful trip, and recommend Norway as a great place to visit for everyone. Just don't buy anything. :)

Guest Post -Sorenson's Visit

On our arrival to London with extra baby supplies and a stroller, it was wonderful to be greeted by a very nice driver at Heathrow by a sign reading Mr. and Mrs. Sorenson!

We spent the first few days in exploring the wonderful department stores - Harrods, Selfridges, John Lewis, Fortum & Mason while walking may parts of the local neighborhoods. Our favorite lunches were at EAT, and it was nice to ride the double decker buses even with the wet and overcast weather. Russell went to the City to visit many famous sites while Anna and I walked to Buckingham Palace followed by a wonderful Tea at the Dorchester. Russell and I also went on the Big Bus Tour, which was so nice and informative. It also dropped us off right next to Nils' work, and we went to his favorite BBQ restaurant nearby. On our last day in London, we went with Nils to Windsor castle which we had visited years before. It was so nice to travel to a castle without getting in a car thanks to the transit system in England. The tour was wonderful, and it was neat to visit on a day when the Queen was home!

We then went to Norway to introduce Anna and Nils the nordic country. Some items have changed since we last visited 5 years ago, but it is as beautiful and expensive as ever! We had a wonderful time touring around (thanks in part to a wonderful TomTom borrowed from a Friend of theirs), though the winter appears to be coming early. We took a day trip to the beautiful little village of Drobak, which is a famous Santa Crossing location. We also toured around to many amazing sites of Oslo, including the majestic views from the sky jump left over from the 1952 Oslo Olympics as well as most of the heritage museums. We ate at many unique places, including a Mexican restaurant (including Russ) and the most popular restaurant in Norway - Peppe's Pizza.

In all, we had a wonderful time with Anna and Nils. We can't wait to visit again, and we can't wait for the new addition to the family!

Our August Trip Home

After a wonderful month at home we are back in London! We can't believe how fast our trip flew by! I spent an amazing two weeks in San Diego while Nils stayed to work in London. Poor Nils. It was so nice to be home and to relax. I then met Nils in Northern California and we were on out way to spend several days with our new nephew, Charlie and Nils' sister Heather. It was so special to be with them!! We then went to San Francisco for a few days. And yes, we loved being back! In the midst of our California tour, I was so lucky to have several baby showers. Thank you so much to Mom, Emily, Laura, Allegra, Annie and Megan for hosting such lovely events. That was so thoughtful of you all!! I had such a great time!!

Of course while we were in California we ate and ate and ate! I had Mexican food and frozen yogurt close to every day and I already miss it!!! I think this baby may come out looking like a pinto bean! By the way, to see pictures of my expanding belly check out the slide show. It was so fun to finally be showing!!! As a matter of fact, I don't think we ever formally mentioned that I am pregnant! We are so thrilled and are eagerly awaiting her December arrival!

After California, we left for New York to see our new niece and nephew, Vivian and Anthony, Brady and Jenn's twins!! We loved being there and being able to spend time with these new members of the family!! All three of our nieces and nephews are absolutely adorable!!! And the parents, Heather, Bill, Jenn and Brady are doing so well! We are impressed!!

We are so glad we got to spend time with all of our family members and our friends. It really was so nice to be back and to get to see you all! We miss you all so much!

Guest Post- Emily Does London

What an experience! I got to spend an entire month living in London! From day trips to Paris to a two week cooking course I felt like a true local by hopping on the tube, going to tea, and saying trousers as opposed to pants. However, I sadly am not leaving with an english accent though, which was the intended plan... A month sounds like a long time but it flew by and I am left feeling as if I need another month here to see it all. The trip started with my mom and dad also being here so we got to have some fun family sight seeing day trips and then it took a turn to where Anna and I went to Leiths, a local cooking school, and got to learn how to scramble eggs (yes apparently they went for the very basic approach) to how to filet fish, gut and dehead prawns, and prepare various types of meat. Anna being the squeamish type and me being the non-meat eater were probably quite funny to watch while we attempted to do these deeds... We pretty much closed are eyes and cut (I do not recommend this). I then got one week to just hang out around London which was great! I got to do some great window shopping, the exchange rate made sure of that and see some more historical and beautiful sights. I can not believe it has come to and end but I do miss America and am ready for some mexican food but London will be missed! Thank you Anna and NIls for everything!!

Nils's 30th Birthday!

We had a great several days celebrating Nils' big 3-0!!!! On the actual day Nils, Emily and I went out to a delicious dinner at Hakkasan, a trendy Chinese fusion restaurant in London. After our tasty dinner, we headed home for some birthday cheesecake. On Saturday we went bowling with our good friends, which was so much fun!! Welcome to your 30's Nils!!!

Laura, Mike and Emma's Visit

After leaving Italy the 5 of us arrived In London. It was so much fun to show them around London and to spend some quality time together. We went to high tea, explored Hyde Park, went to some museums (Emma LOVED the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum), walked around local neighborhoods, toured the touristy areas, and just had them experience our normal life. We had beautiful weather, which made all of our walking around even better. It was so nice to have them here, wish we lived closer. To see more pictures or read more, see their blog (the link is on the left). Thanks for visiting us! We miss you!!!

Our Trip to Italy

What a holiday!! Italy was a fantastic break for us! It was nice to get away and spend lots of time together! We first went to Southern Italy: Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri. It was absolutely stunning and the weather was amazing. Nice and warm but with a breeze! We relaxed, swam, ate loads of pizza and pasta, and just toured around the different areas.

We then were off to Lucca in Tuscany for Laura's brother, Luke's wedding. We had a spectacular time and took a few day trips to coastal towns, including Cinque Terre! Beautiful! It was so fun to spend lots of time with Laura, Mike, Emma, Robyn,and Laura's family! And Luke and Lauren's wedding was gorgeous! What a beautiful couple they make!!

Guest Post- The Wallace Adventure

Pimms

Water

Three countries in 8 days!!! And all memories are vivid and wonderful!!! Thank you, you two!!! From England's beautiful parks, wonderful eateries and fabulous architecture, Nils' teaching Ken the game of cricket, fun pubs,and the vibrant city life, to Paris' joie de vive with the lilting language and happy people to Brugges, Belgium with amazing waffles! Chocolates ! and interesting Flemish Fries (skip the mayonnaise and get them with ketchup and mustard)! It was a most fabulous and fun trip!
Thanks Anna and Nils for your wonderful hospitality and expert tour guiding!!! It was the holiday of a lifetime!!!
We love you, Mom/Viann and Ken

Guest Post- B Schuck's visit

London has great weather!! London has great food!! Well, that’s what I took away from my visit, anyway. I (Brady) visited Anna and Nils Friday, June 13th to Monday June 16th (without my pregnant wife; sorry honey, you missed out on an incredible 4 day vacation). The journey was highlighted by mild, beautifully sunny, cheery weather augmented by delicious local fare and fine cuisine. Highlights of the trip included:

·Riding the Tube (I’m a HUGE subway fan);

·Touring the Tower of London;

·Visiting local pubs to eat the finest local fare around; Fish & Chips and “Mushy Peas” (a British pub staple apparently; consists of over-cooked peas mashed together into a green, paste-like mixture….mmmmmmm, scrumptious!);

·Touring a couple more local pubs with Nils watching the European Championships soccer tournament;

·Walking through Kensington, Hyde Park, visiting Harrod’s (twice) and Chelsea;

·Having a trendy dinner in Piccadilly Circus with my friend Josh Langdon; and

·Visiting the British Museum.

Of all the things we visited, I liked the pubs, soccer fans, the London “Mews” homes (visit and you’ll know what I’m talking about), and South Kensington/Chelsea. Thanks for hosting me and showing me around. I’ll be back soon and this time, I’m bringing my better half. Till we meet again…..Viva La England!!

Graduation!

We had a wonderful time celebrating Anna's graduation from Pastry School. A short video of Anna's walk across the stage is below, along with pictures of all of her friends and chefs.

Sunny Scotland

No, this isn't a cynical view of our northern friends. Nils was lucky enough to be able to travel with our friend Rick up to the East Coast of Scotland last week during long Bank Holiday weekend. While it was bright and sunny (as opposed to the heavy rains in London), the island wouldn't let Nils and Rick forget they were still in the UK. Winds were between 20-30 MPH, especially during golf. Regardless, it was a great experience. Thankfully, it was also safe which wasn't a sure bet considering it was the first time Nils drove on the "other side." A few curbs are probably still scared, but no damage to the rental or either person.

Windsor Castle Excursion

Anna, Dan, Esther, and Laurel had a lovely day trip to Windsor Castle in early May. The castle and the grounds were beautiful, and it is incredible to be able to take a short train ride outside the hustle and bustle of London. There are so many different day trips like this just outside London, so hopefully we will have many more to come!

Croatia Holiday

Croatia is an amazing country to visit. We definitely recommend putting it on places to see (especially before the Euro takes over completely!).

We stayed in a lovely family run boutique hotel in Cavtat, which is a few miles south of Dubrovnik. Its easy to tell the two cities apart in the slide show. Cavtat is a very small village with a sheltered bay. Dubrovnik is a walled city that looks right upon the Adriatic Sea. Both are unique in their own ways, Cavtat with its tree canopied hills and water side cafes, and Dubrovnik with its war scars and historic feel. We spent our time relaxing, reading, and eating (of course). Each day we spent time in both cities, and if it was closer to summer weather the islands throughout the area are wonderful places to visit.

And then there is Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Why were we there you ask? Per the beginning of the slide show, we went on an adventure sponsored by Austrian Air/Croatian Air/Vienna Airport. The trip didn't start out well, and got progressively worse throughout the first day. When we arrived at Heathrow, the liquid police decided Anna's bag was 1 inch too long so we were sent back to check our bags. Given United allowed for 30 minutes connection in Vienna, this wasn't good. After leaving 40 minutes late, we were pretty sure we were not going to make it (and if we did not with our luggage). It didn't help matters that we had matching middle seats, and Anna's neighbor was in a yelling match with another passenger.

"Luckily" as we were about to land, the captain informed us that the Dubrovnik gate was next to ours and the flight hadn't left. Much to our surprise, it hadn't left because it had been canceled. Technically, the pilot was right. Austrian Air decided on our behalf to given us 7 hours in Zagreb. This actually was a great side trip as it isn't the tourist haven that coast cities are, and it has its own historical charm. We are becoming extremely experienced with international public transit.

Finally, late that night we arrived in Dubrovnik. Of all of the areas of Croatia which had experienced war in the 1990's, the airport was the only one that showed it. We had a driver waiting for us as we got into the baggage area, and we were ready to go. Except as Anna predicted, our luggage wasn't. It seemed that for the 10 folks we traveled with from Vienna, Austrian Air forgot to put our luggage on our replacement flights. It would take another day for our bags to arrive (only 1 flight a day). As Anna filled out the paperwork and Nils called United to figure out what was happening, our driver cut bait and took someone else. Can't blame him, but it left us and 3 other victims with a problem. It seems as if there aren't many cab drivers in the greater Dubrovnik area who wanted to wait for the airport to close, so all 5 of us got in the only remaining cab. It wasn't a tough choice as the airport employees had locked the doors and turned out the lights. But hey, no luggage to clog up the boot!

Despite the excitement, we had such a wonderful time that we didn't think about it again until now. We can't wait to go to Croatia again, and next time to the islands near Split.

Wild Weekend

Well, not so wild but definitely different.

We first ventured into North London, which is amazingly different from our neck of the woods. It is a great place to get away, and so close to everything at the same time.

Hampstead was beautiful; a cute picturesque English town, with a huge heath (park) that is full of hiking trails, ponds, and rolling wooded hills.



We then walked to the next town of Highgate, and took the bus to Camden. Camden has no trees, hills or ponds, but plenty of excitement. This is the area of London where many of the rock stars and young celebrities live, though no sightings this time.

On Sunday, we woke up to snow! For two Californians, this was quite exciting so we had to document the event. We only hope this is a rare occurrence.




*Please note - Anna does have clean clothes to wear (thanks Nils), but this was actually the first time her snow jacket was used properly. From the past blog pictures, you can tell Anna always anticipates snow.

Where have we been?

It has definitely been a while, and we're sorry we haven't kept you all updated on what's been going on here. So, we will just fill you in on a few things that have been going on and then we will get back to our regular posts.

February and March seemed to fly by! I went back to California for a whirlwind trip, which was wonderful! It was nice to be home and you can't beat San Diego's weather! Since I have been back, I've started the intermediate level pastry course which has been "brilliant"! On a side note, I have finally created a blog for my pastries. So you can check them out at www.annaspastries.blogspot.com. Later this week I will be sure to put lots of pictures up! Nils has been working and watching football of course, not to mention preparing for the fantasy baseball season!!

Lets see, our only other interesting tidbits to share are... we had our first snow, so we are told, although we slept through it! They say it is supposed to snow this weekend so if it does we will definitely take some pictures! We also have been going quite frequently to a local pub for quiz night! We have had so much fun, but we do tend to come in last or second to last since we aren't too good with the general British knowledge. We went to a Chelsea football game last weekend, which was great!!

And, Nils will not like that I am sharing this, but it's too funny not to. Incidentally, we really have had trouble with the whole washer/dryer(or lack of) system here. Well, we were at the grocery store the other day and needed laundry detergent. Nils set off to pick one up and after 5 minutes he still hadn't come back to find me. I finally found him and he told me that he had been buying fabric softener for the past 5 months, not detergent, oops! So we finally have figured out what to use to clean our clothes, and we promise when you come to visit you will have clean sheets (not just soft). Anyway, lots of new stuff to learn over here!


We are SO excited for the long spring days and our upcoming trips to Croatia and Italy! Bring on the flip flops!! Until next time, all the best!

Guest Post: Heather and Bill

Fetus Spain, Bill and I had a chance to visit with
Anna, Nils, Jackson and Nessie for a week in February.
London was such a fun experience! Cafe Nero was always
in reach during our daily brisk walks to see the
sites. Viewing London from the top of the Big Bus was
wonderful. Harrod's was quite an adventure, so easy to
get lost in such a large department store. Such a
treat to enjoy Anna's pastries and desserts from
school. We also enjoyed dinner at Bella Italia.
Thank you both so much for your hospitality!