Crossing Over the Channel

Several of you may be wondering how we "drove" to Paris, so I thought I should explain...

On Sunday morning, we got up bright and early and drove down to Dover (remember the White Cliffs of Dover?) and checked in at the port. There are several ferry companies that transport people, cars and freight across the English Channel. We chose P&O Ferries, which was recommended to us (http://www.poferries.com/tourist/content/pages/template/routes_dover_-_calais_routes_-_dover_-_calais.htm.) As you can read, this is a large operations that makes numerous trips back and forth each day.

As we arrived, they had already pulled up our info on the computer by inserting our license plate number and knew we already had tickets, etc. They gave us a number to hang on our rear view mirror and told us what lane to be in (which was around 300 or so.) It looked like a huge toll booth with many cars and cargo trucks ready to board. We drove on a ramp and right into the belly of the ship. Men were directing traffic and getting the vehicles as packed in as possible. Once we were parked, we got what we needed out of the car (jackets, etc) and locked the car. Once the boat sails, you are unable to access your vehicle. We were greeted upon the ship and were surprised at how big it was. There were 3 different levels, several stores, bars, restaurants, a game room and an observation desk at the top. We enjoyed a quick breakfast as our 90 minute cruise began. When we were getting close to Calais, France we were given instructions on were to go (each section of the "parking lot" is color coded for easy locating - wish they had that at Wal-Mart!) Once we docked, we drove off the boat and right onto the streets of France. There were numerous signs reminding us to drive on the right side of the road!

Once in France, by the help of our wonderful GPS, we drove into Paris and found our hotel. During our stay, we used the public transportation system. On the way home, we hit LOTS of traffic both in France and the UK and the drive home took 10 hours! Next time, we may have to save up for the train ( http://www.eurostar.com/dynamic/index.jsp.)

Proud to be an American

With all the beauty, sounds and culture around us, somehow we were still drawn to American things or things that remind us of home.

For those who have seen National Treasure 2, we found the replica of the Statue of Liberty (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Replicas_of_the_Statue_of_Liberty#France) It was the very best day, weather-wise and we had a great walk down the Seine River to get these pics.

I found it amusing to see a GIANT billboard ad featuring Zac Efron in the Paris Metro stations (the subway.) I think it was advertising his new movie. Since Tony and Zac are such close friends now (LOL) I thought I should take a picture. Do you think Zac knows French?

All, finally, our last night in France was spent at the Hard Rock Cafe Paris. Yes, Lori, I bought a shirt! (And for those wondering, there is no Prince memorabilia!) We were there celebrating Danny's 52nd birthday. There was a live band and they sang Happy Birthday to him in French. Now that is a birthday to be remembered! Happy Birthday Mr. Dandy!

Escargots S'il Vous Plait

During our first full day in Paris, we had lunch in a great bistro near the tower. Eric, who loves to try new things, quickly scanned our menu (English edition was available.) He decided to try the escargot. We tried to order our meal in French. When Tony ordered Eric's lunch, the waiter looked at him, then at Eric, a little concerned. He asked, in English, "You want snails?" Tony simply pointed to Eric, smiled and nodded. Eric enjoyed them, of course! He wanted us all to try them, Emily, Tony and I did, although they came out of the shell a dark green color. We thought they tasted like clams.

Below is a photo of Julie doing her Lucile Ball impression. Has anyone seen that episode?

We had such a great time at the bistro, laughing, talking and eating snails (well, some of us.) This was one of my favorite memories of the trip.

A Day at Disneyland

Our second full day in Paris was spent in Disneyland. The kids were so excited to go. Surprisingly, out of the 7 of us (Henderson's included,) I was the only one who had ever been to Disney. That was when I was in 7th grade and our high school band made a trip to FL. Obviously, that has been a few years ago. Not alot has changed.

We woke up to a rainy Tuesday, not feeling real confident about the weather. However, we are in Europe and had to make the most of it. We took the subway over to Disney, a trip that took close to 2 hours between bus and train. The kids were still thrilled and ready to go. We took our friend, Emily, along with us while her parents spent the day in the city. The group quickly split up. Eric and Tony headed for the roller coasters, while the girls chose some calmer rides and looked for princesses. Fortunately, the weather cleared up and the rain held off most of the day.

The kids had a great time and the only 2 disappointments were that Eric was too short for the Indiana Jones coaster and we did not have enough time to see and do everything. I think the kids would have enjoyed it if our entire trip would have been spent in the park. The highlights were the beautiful gardens, the cool rides and the incredible parade featuring all the Disney characters. Sarah had a great view from her Dad's shoulders! Not sure if I consider it the "happiest place on Earth," but my kids thought it was pretty cool!

London Bridge is NOT Falling Down

After Tony arrived home from Spain, Eric was itching to travel once again.

He has been reading a book called Guide to the World's Greatest Treasures. In it, is a chapter regarding the Rosetta Stone. You can read about it at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosetta_stone. Eric was thrilled to learn it was on display at the British Museum in London. Although it has been there since 1802, Eric thought we should get there right away. We saw it and took a picture of it....but unfortunately something happened during the transfer of pics from my camera to the computer. I have no photo to show you. Sorry! If Eric learns about this development, we will probably be forced to go back and take more photos. We also got to see Cleopatra in mummy form and many, many things from over 3000 BC. Yes. BC!!! It is truly an amazing museum with priceless art and collections from all over the world. You can read more at: http://www.britishmuseum.org/default.aspx

While we were in London, we also toured the Tower Bridge (yes, these photos were also lost :O( We always thought the Tower Bridge was the one in the song London Bridge is Falling Down. But this is not true. London Bridge is actually the smaller one in the photo and, yes, it has actually fallen down and been rebuilt a couple of times (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Bridge).

It was another great day in London. It was the least crowded we have experienced it. We are thankful for that. I feel blessed that we live in such an amazing area and that I have the opportunity to go back and retake the photos that were lost. The great memories, however, remain.

March Happenings

Wow! It looks like I got behind again on the Bomar Blog. Sorry about that. Let's see if I can catch you up to date.

Tony enjoyed a great month on the shore of the Canary Islands in Spain. His TDY was very successful and the training went well. He was able to eat well, go fishing and get a great tan. We all missed him while we were FREEZING here in England, but all survived well.

Actually, it did start to thaw out while he was gone. We took time to work in the yard, take a few walks and have a picnic in the park. One weekend, Sarah and I spent the day together while Eric was at a birthday party. The next weekend, Eric and I got to spend time together as we shuttled Sarah between 3 parties, including a sleepover. It is nice that the kids are continuing to make friends and feel more comfortable in our England home.

Before Tony left, he and the kids went to the zoo for the day, while I attended a Ladies Retreat at our church. I think this was the first all day outing for Tony and the kids. They had a great time and even took pictures.

I am continuing to attend a Beth Moore Bible study on Wednesday mornings and Sarah and I attend Brownies on Monday afternoons. We try to get out as much as possible on the weekends and see new things. The grass is green, the trees are starting to bud and the flowers are blooming everywhere. Spring is in the air!

Back to School

Now that the boxes are unpacked, things have settled down and the kids are in school, I have had a little time on my hands. After much prayer, discussion and research, I have decided to go back to school and get my Masters Degree. There are several American universities here on base and financial benefits for spouses that are not available in the states. We have decided the time is right and I am going to go back (although Eric thinks I am a little old for college.) I have chosen to pursue a Masters in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma. With this degree, there are numerous job opportunities, including counseling. I have been accepted into the program and will begin classes in May!