London, Day 2

It's hard to believe we just arrived yesterday afternoon as we have seen and done so much. There is so much more to see and do, but we are pleased with what we have done. We definitely aren't the typical sightseers, as we are more interested in visiting the graves of the martyrs than the crown jewels!

So much for a quiet evening acclamating! We did walk over to Buckingham Palace, view the statues, gardens and the changing of the guards.

But the highlight was worshiping at Westminster Chapel yesterday evening. Following the service the pastor (Greg Haslem) was kind to take us on a personal tour. We know from experience the long hours a pastor works - then to stay late after service and chat for almost two hours. . . more than we could have hoped for! Paul got to wear Dr. Martin Lloyd-Jones preaching robe (we discovered he was a very small man!), hold his preaching Bible and stand by his lecturn in the grand sanctuary. Estatic doesn't say it all:). We heard many stories, learned a lot of history, and enjoyed fellowship with a Brother across the pond.

The chapel remains the same as when it was filled with 3000+ to hear the Dr.

The lectern from where the small, but mightly preacher thundered!

Wearing the Dr.'s robe!

Dr.Martin Lloyd-Jones preaching Bible

Monday marked our first full day here in London. The bulk of today has been on top of a double-decker bus touring the city. It's been a beautiful day full of sunshine and breezes. The locals tell us that last week was rainy and 7 degree C....so we are thankful.

Taking the advice of many, we took the "Red Bus" tours. The hop on/hop off set-up was helpful. Staying on for the loop allows for an overview of many of the sights and history of London.

The afternoon was spent at the Tower of London. It was amazing seeing the history we've read about before us. Hearing the accounts of the executions, murders and torture of so many. You can see the markings in the prison walls prior to the executions and so many etched Bible verses. . .Bloody Mary was truly bloody!

Inside the Tower of London

The tour provided by the Royal Yeoman was very helpful and entertaining

It was here that Latimer, Cranmer, and Ridley waited in the dungeon waiting for their execution. Bloody Mary killed more that 280 Christians during her reign.

One of the torture methods

Other martyrs included Lady Jane Grey and Queen Anne.

Where the beheading (the more merciful executions) were held.

There is also a big soccer match here - so saw some crazy mobs of fans and lots of excitement.

I've been a bit surprised at the difficulty I have understanding the British accent. I find we all rely on Paul for getting us around and ordering food, etc.

PDave did find something a bit like home:)

Many things that are normal in America are luxeries here. Places are very small and crowded - personal space is as well. Hotels are small, too. It is difficult to find wi-fi and it usually isn't free. So many times we went to Goggle something and remembered that there isn't (free) access just anywhere. Everything seems more expensive because it's all sold in small increments and individual sizes. There are very few children. We have only seen families with two children - no more! I only saw two babies all day today and one pregnant woman. . .so strange not to see children around. Perhaps this is just city life.Pedestrians do not have the right of way and fortunately, we have been looking opposite so have fared OK. I'm amazed how the bus drivers navigate around and pull into very small looking places. . .

Enjoying the time but missing you kids!