September 4 London

Yesterday and today were “get acclimatized” days, free days in London. Wednesday we spent some time in the Borough Market beside Southwark Cathedral, where we will begin our walk, strolled beside the Thames and explored the HMS Belfast, a storied light cruiser who began her days at the beginning of World War 2, presided over the DDay invasion at Sword and Juno BEaches, and was involved in the Korean War and the Cold War. Saved from the scrapyard, she is the last large British warship remaining from the war.

Ken was looking forward to his Scotch eggs.

Another most pleasant highlight was meeting up with Nick from the Confraternity of Pilgrims to Rome at The Angel for a brew, a meal, and excellent conversation ranging from pilgrimages to aircraft. A most auspicious start to our three month journey.

Nick modeling his new Electra tshirt, courtesy of Yakattack Inc (ie Ken)

Nick presented each of us with a “Modern Pilgrim’s Prayer”, which he had written while on his own pilgrimage on the Via Francigena. A beautiful homage for those who walk, whether for religious or spiritual reasons, or for the history or culture or simply the adventure…or all of the above.

Today was a late start. We are staying in Plumstead, the theory being that we can begin our walk from the Cathedral and just end up at the house we’ve rented. No need to drag Rawley the Trolley through downtown. The Imperial War museum was explored by all, then Ken and Scott headed to the Churchill War Rooms while Peter and Terry headed off to the Natural History Museum to see dinosaurs (as if we weren’t in Drumheller 4 months ago).