London

The UK election dominated the news while I was there.  I learned a great deal about their election process – fascinating.  We could learn a thing or two about limiting our tedious and prolonged campaigning process – now it goes on and on and on.  Their way is very different from ours, but that’s another story.

Guardsmen friends and the lovely female friend of the lad on the right.

I lodged mostly in the Victoria area of London, visiting often my good friend and the son I never had, Sgt Kev Gorman, Scots Guards at my favorite pub, The Cardinal.  He has two of the most awesome dogs I’ve met in my lifetime.  Alphie, a mix of English Bull Terrier and possibly Lab, and, Jennifer – a pure English Bull Terrier.  One doesn’t dare refer to them as “pit” anything.  They take great offense, and one really doesn’t want to offend an English Bull Terrier – they might eat you.

Alphie and Jennifer

Jenn and I fell in love.  Just a whim, a mere peccadillo, but I for one shall remember our steamy affair always.  She was next to me or in my lap constantly, giving Alphie fits.  Now having such a magnificent dog in your lap is much like having a large boulder in your lap.  She is hard as nails, but very affectionate … and those eyes !

"Jenn"

During the three weeks I was there, Kev and I worked diligently on a project we have going, to publish a diary of a Scots Fusilier Guards enlisted soldier who was in the Crimean War.  We, mostly Kevin, tracked down his entire family, and it is an amazing story … again for another time.  If we can do it, we’ll have the manuscript publication-ready by end of year.  I’ll keep you posted.  Should there be any one out there with an interest in publishing such a wonderful diary, please let me know.  We have several folks already interested, but would consider all other interested parties.

Kev and LTC Wade Russell, Royal Tank Regt (Ret) - a good friend

Cardinal Pub, Victoria, London - My local

Cardinal Pub - Again !