When we moved to Philadelphia in February, we booked a return ticket (less expensive to book this way, even if we only used the first leg). We decided that if Conrad was healthy and we were well adjusted to life as a family of 3 we would take the trip. Thankfully, everything was a go and John had some work to do in the UK. So, on John’s birthday, we packed up two large suitcases and a diaper bag and off we went!
*I did a lot of planning and prep for a 2+ week trip across the pond with a 4 month old in tow. Some of it worked, some of it didn’t. I’ll post that later–this entry is strictly about our adventures!*
A picture with the Pilot!
Conrad had flown a few times before, but not on a long-haul flight. We requested the bassinet so we could have our hands free for some dinner and so he could get some rest, in theory.
Baby in a plane bassinet. This lasted about an hour.
We thought an overnight flight would be perfect and he would sleep. WRONG!!! He was too excited to sleep for more than about an hour. He didn’t cry, he was just interested in everyone and everything around him.
Finally, we saw the sun coming through the windows and the UK came into view!
Conrad’s first view of Britain!
We landed and headed straight for our hotel, The Conrad (haha–we had to!!). Baby jet lag is no joke, so I let our little guy take a nap, then dressed him and took him out into the sunlight. Dad went off to work!
Just woke up and wondering what in the world is going on.
Baby Jet Lag Tour Stop 1: Buckingham Palace
Baby Jet Lag Tour Stop 2: Green Park
Baby Jet Lag Tour Stop 3: Westminster Abbey
Baby Jet Lag Tour Stop 4: Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
After a long, hard day of travel sometimes a bath can really turn things around!
The next morning, we did a little more London exploring. I tried to go to Dominique Ansel’s bakery in NYC to try their legendary Cronut (croissant-donut hybrid). The queue in NYC was down the block, so we left. However, Ansel also has a bakery in London so Conrad and I popped in for a visit!
Stunning patisserie
Eclair with the Queen
The famous Cronut!
After a lovely sugar high, we headed to London Bridge to meet a dear friend, Philly. So nice to catch up!!!
Conrad meets Philly
Then, Conrad and I took a stroll along the Southbank to see some more London highlights. And to remain in the sunlight (baby jet lag was still in full effect).
Conrad at Shakespeare’s Globe
Looking across the Thames to St. Paul’s
After our walk, we took a snooze, then went to Dad’s office to meet his colleagues.
The next morning, we did one of our favorite London walks through the West End, from Green Park, down New Bond Street and Savile Row to Oxford Street, then back down Regent Street to Piccadilly. It is a walk that John and I have done on countless weekend afternoons. It was such a delight to introduce Conrad to one of our London traditions!
Good morning, Conrad! Nice hair 🙂
The Horse Guards
Mama’s Favorite: Fortnum and Mason
Dad’s Favorite: Savile Row
A warm greeting from the doorman at the Wolseley
That afternoon, we had to the opportunity to go on a date for Afternoon Tea! Bing Xian (a dear friend) babysat Conrad for us! As you can see he LOVES her!
You have a new fan, Bing Xian!
Afternoon Tea at the Connaught–my birthday gift from John!
How could we not?
That evening we took a family walk to Covent Garden. Conrad is becoming increasingly interested in wine!
Just a sip, Dad?
Sleepy family photo in front of Big Ben
The following morning, we went to our London church, St. Helen’s Bishopsgate and then spent the afternoon catching up with friends!
St. Helen’s Bishopsgate–our church home in London!
Hanging out with Caroline and Helen-Frances
Baby on the Tube!
The next morning, I took Conrad to LOVESPACE to meet my former colleagues. It was lovely to see everyone! Then, we headed to east London where John and I lived for almost six years.
Score!!! Front seat on the DLR!
We took Conrad to our favorite pub in all of the UK: The Gun. It’s just east of Canary Wharf and on the river. John and I have had many a great conversation sipping drinks next to the fireplace.
Conrad’s first visit to The Gun
So many memories here
Outside the pub (pardon the flowery nursing cover–I forgot to pack him a blanket for our outing!)
After lunch, Conrad and I took a walk to see the old flat and visit some other favorite spots.
View from our old flat
View of Greenwich Naval College from Island Gardens
Taking the foot tunnel to Greenwich!
Cutty Sark: the tea trading ship
Greenwich Market
On the way back to the hotel–I think I wore him out!
Once we got back to the Conrad, the sweet hotel staff gave Conrad a stuffed London bear. He loves it!
London bear
The next morning, we met Dad for coffee at the Wren, a lovely coffee shop in a church near St. Paul’s. It was a favorite “morning date” location for us!
Good morning!
Then, Conrad and I strolled back to the hotel, via some lovely London sights of course!
Trafalgar Square
That evening, we boarded a plane for Italy to start our first family vacation as a family of 3! We had to squeeze in just one more Pret before leaving! 🙂
Conrad likes Pret, as well 🙂
It was such a blessing to be able to return to London so soon after leaving. It was an even greater blessing that Conrad got to meet so many special people in our lives. I didn’t take nearly enough pictures with friends (I think I was too busy catching up!), but please know that we treasured the time we spent with each of you! Hopefully I’ll be more on my picture game next time.
London, you are amazing. We will be back. Next, off to Italy! 🙂
John and CB's Most Excellent Adventure 