The rest of the day to ourselves

When the ceremony concluded we were let loose for the rest of the day. The first order of business for me was to get out of the sweltering sun. Gail, her mother and I started walking along the densely shaded Birdcage Walk. It felt 20 degrees cooler as we headed toward Westminster Abbey and Parliament. At this point we really didn't have a plan. When we strolled by the Guards museum and the area where the Queen's Guards assembled prior to marching into the palace, I spotted a sign with a little toy soldier hawking Guard' souvenirs. Inside I immediately thought of how much Tyler would love this place - it was full of beautifully hand-painted metal toy soldiers. They adorned each wall of the room and depicted British military people from Roman times through the Medieval Period through the English Civil War through the Napoleonic Wars through the World Wars and up until the present time. There were loads of military books, medals, pennants, headgear and artwork. There was too much to admire and desire. I ended-up getting another book on British history for myself and another miniature Tyler's collection. About this time we decided it was time for lunch. We continued on to the neares Underground station and travelled during Covent Garden. During my many years of visiting London I had never been to this section of town but the last three EF trips had introduced me to the many restaurants and pubs in the area. I felt sure we'd find someplace good to eat. We spotted thsi corner pub advertising cheap Shepherd's Pie. I knew it might be my last chance to enjoy this treat before going home.