It’s always an adventure and in life you never truly know where the next road is going to take you. Knowing that this was going to be my first Christmas without the girls I decided way back in May to book a trip to London. I love Christmas and I love big family and friend festivities during the holidays. These last couple of years, Christmas time has been very different. The girls and myself, have had to get used to new traditions and new realities. It is not always easy. I am trying to frame it that different doesn’t have to be hard, it is just different and can have new and exciting parts to it. Although, I have to admit, staying positive at the holidays can be tough. I find myself nostalgic and this year I knew that I would really miss not having the girls and I together. So I decided I needed a BIG distraction.
So, here I am, in London.
I chose London as my first solo international destination because it seemed like an “easy” trip to plan- a big city with lots going on, many neighborhoods to walk and explore and truthfully, for my own ease, an English speaking city to navigate.
I have been here for a couple of days now and am loving it. So much to see and do.
I have to admit, I was a bit sad to wake up this morning on Christmas, by myself, but shook it off with a brisk walk to Westminster Abbey and a beautiful church service. I have spoken to my girls and they are having a great time with their Dad. I am having fun doing something new and exciting. I mean… LONDON!!! Different AND awesome.
Yesterday I had the good fortune of meeting and talking with a fabulous couple. It was such a highlight to just connect with good people. As we parted ways one of the men hugged me and said “New beginnings are usually the start of something better”. Yes indeed.
Merry Christmas my beautiful friends ❤️
It's Always An Adventure 
“Happy Christmas”, as I think they say across the pond. You picked a marvelous city to explore. I love how your resilience and sense of adventure is creating new traditions. Wishing you a 2018 that is safe, sane and sweet, and easy travels home — when you’re ready!
Thank you Wendl! Happy Christmas to you and yours, wishing you a wonderful 2018 ❤️
Sending so much love. You are an incredible woman – and Mom. Merry Merry Christmas! xoxo
Thank you my friend ❤️
Your girls are lucky to have such an adventurous mom. Enjoy!
Thanks Helen! ❤️
What a lovely entry, Sandra! Enjoy every minute (and don’t miss the Wallace Collection!) HUGS from the West Coast, where I’m also pretty much alone (visiting my 90-year-old mom).
Thank you Helen. Sending lots of love and wishing you a Merry Christmas my friend ❤️
I’m so jet lagged that I bashed my sister’s front bumper on a column in our mom’s parking garage – scream – but other than that all is well 🙂
Oy! Sending sleep, hugs and wine your way 😊
Hi Sandra
You are on my Twitter feed and I just happened to click on your blog, how reflective. London is beautiful David and I were there this summer, enjoy the freedom to explore and just be in the moment.
Hugs from an friend .. Lisa Timmons
Lisa!!! Yay! So wonderful to hear from you. I hope you are doing well. Sending a big hug back, S xo
Lovely photos – Harrod’s at the hols!! GLORIOUS! I think you’re smart to have an adventure. And when you’re back with your girls, you can talk all about it and they will admire your independence. Hugs!
Thank you! I am having a great time. It is a beautiful city. Happy Holidays!