Pump Room and Jamie’s in Bath, England

The Pump Room in Bath, England is given a starred review by many guidebook writers. We decided to follow their suggestion and  splurge at this famous landmark. The impressive vaulted ceilings and enormous glass windows provided a cheerful ambiance which takes patrons back centuries. Classical artwork decorated the expansive walls.

Orani: My Father’s Village- a Memorable Memoir Picture Book

Many American families maintain ties with relatives and friends in the country of their heritage. Oftentimes, these families make pilgrimages back to the “old country” to reunite with their heritage and with their friends and relatives. Claire A. Nivola’s picture book Orani: My Father’s Village takes the reader on a journey to Orani, Sardinia, her father’s homeland.

Day Trip to Bath, England

With one day to spend outside London, we chose to travel by train to nearby Bath. We planned to take a self guided walking tour, eat lunch at the exquisite Pump Room, and tour the famous Roman Baths before we took an early evening train back to London. Finally, the weather cooperated. We did not experience one drop of rain, just periods of gloomy clouds and later rays of sunshine.

The small town atmosphere was apparent as soon as we left the train depot. As we walked toward the town, we were greeted by a tall church steeple.

London’s Ethnic Cuisine

Is there anything besides fish and chips and mushy peas in London?

Fish and Chips at Fish! Restaurant (Borough Market)

Charlie Palmer’s District Tavern, Hidden Ridge Vineyard, and Visa- a Sensational Trio

What does Charlie Palmer’s District Tavern in Denver and Sonoma County Vitners in California have in common with the Visa Signature card and Mileage Plus United?  Last night, these entities collaborated together and hosted the first Visa Signature wine pairing event in Denver.

Churchill War Rooms- An Abundance of History

When I was in London, I found myself continually chanting the popular nursery rhyme- “Rain rain go away. Come again another day.” It rained most of the time.

My Heart Will Not Sit Down- African Children Unite With New York City

Picture books have an uncanny way of bringing memorable stories to children of all ages. Most fit conveniently into one fiction genre while others fall into multiple genres that are fiction, nonfiction or a blending of the two. My Heart Will Not Sit Down (written by Mara Rockliff and illustrated by Ann Tanksley, 2012) combines historical events and multiculturalism with a unique message.

A Path of Stars, A Cambodian American Experience

I returned a large stack of picture books and stood motionless in the library lobby. I looked toward the children’s section. What was I going to look for next? Hmm.

Should I search for more Indian books or should I switch my focus?

Where would I begin if I changed ethnic groups? I wasn’t sure?

Then I eyed some shelves labeled “new picture books”. I sat on the floor and started to take picture walks. Before I knew it, I had a pile of books that appeared to fall within the genre of multiculturalism. I checked the books out and went home.

A Visit to Kensington Palace

After an 18 million dollar renovation, part of the Kensington Palace was recently reopened to the public. This stately red brick building was built in the early part of the 17th century and has been the residence for six British monarchs. The area once occupied by Princess Diana and Prince Charles are closed to the public. Prince William and his bride are expected to move into an apartment in the private royal section next year.

Enjoying Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park

Walking through a city park is a pleasant way to escape the congestion of a metropolitan area. New York is famous for Central Park and its zoo. Chicago’s city planners had the foresight to keep miles and miles of Lake Michigan shoreline dedicated to open space and parks. Likewise, London’s leaders chose to include many beautiful parks.