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Although the wedding is over, our African adventure is not. Since we’re already here, we decide to tag on an African safari in Kruger National Park to end our holiday. Remember when I said Africa is big. Well, it’s bigger than big. Just Kruger by itself is over two million acres. As a result, we have to fly, but this time we take a tiny charter plane. Am I scared? Yes! Do I need Dramamine? Definitely!

My first safari and I feel my Karen Blixen dreams turn to dust. Turns out no one on safari actually dresses like they are “Out of Africa”. Mostly everyone is in cargo shorts and trainers. It’s sad! I was so looking forward to re-creating that era of British Romanticism. But even though my naive vision is not even close to reality, the wonderment of South Africa is altogether real! It’s a singularly rare and beautiful country that cannot be recreated on television or anywhere else but here!

We arrive in Ngala, a private game reserve that borders Kruger National Park, safe, sound, and all in one piece. What a relief!

To get there we had to take this tiny PC -12 plane which barely seats a dozen people. I purposely ate almost nothing and swallowed a couple of Dramamine before getting on this baby. 

Because Africa is so big, flying in private planes to get around is commonplace. This was my first time, so of course I was super excited…and nervous. 

We land without incident, and our guide (Steve) was at the runway to meet us along with a very large herd of impala.

And we’re off-my first Safari!

The lodge where we are staying is lovely.

Right in the midst of the bush, is a magnificent British Colonial inspired hotel lodge.

I fell in love with all the traditional and romantic British details and decor.

Obviously Angela was blown away too.

Lunch is immediately served, and it is top notch.

Delicious offerings that are beautifully laid out tempt even the pickiest eater, which of course I am not.

Leg of lamb is perfectly roasted.

Locally grown fresh salads and vegetables accompany the main offering.

And of course antique silver and real China make everything taste better.

The entire dining area is open to nature, and look who comes to visit us!

Impala are indigenous deer and very abundant here. Personally these two are quite bold in my opinion, since I am told they are delicious.

And then we are escorted to our room which is decorated in that Romantic British campaign style. So gorgeous!

Here’s the bathroom! I actually squealed when I saw this.

It’s a completely private bath with glass walls and an outdoor shower in an enclosed garden.

And just like in England, at 4 pm, it’s time for tea. I love how everything is so traditional and civilized amongst the ruggedness of the land.

Our first official game drive and the weather cooperates with us. January is the wet season, so we are lucky for the dry sunny afternoon.

And our guide who I’ve taken to calling “Handsome Steve” and our tracker “Shy Harold.” They are with us every step of the way and know the area like the back of their hand.

Right off the bat, we see a giraffe calmly staring at us.

And zebras aplenty just going about their business.

This is actually rare, but we even find a lioness cooling in the shade.

And even more rare, we are swept up in a hunt with a pack of wild dogs running down their prey. We see the entire kill before our eyes. It’s gruesome and mesmerizing at the same time.

These dogs are the most successful hunters of all predatory animals, and kill the impala in less than six minutes. I don’t think I will ever forget seeing this “circle of life” scenario unfold before my eyes.

And in another nod to British civility, “Handsome Steve” takes us to a dry riverbed and makes cocktails for everyone while we watch the sun set. Notice the tablecloth and crystal tumblers.

“Shy Harold” who is an expert tracker tells us fascinating stories as we enjoy gin and tonics and watch the sun go down.

This is impala biltong-South African deer jerky. It’s quite spicy but delicious with drinks.

We watched the sun go down far away from these wild dogs, and then drove home for dinner.

Dinner is served in the Boma. A boma is usually a corral for cattle, but here they glam it up for us.

An African braii with local game like kudu (similar to venison), and other mouthwatering meats are grilled to order. Eating outdoors under candlelight and oil lamps make dinner seem extra special. What an incredible day!

“And Beyond” is the travel outfitter we used for this trip, and that name is so fitting because so far Africa has definitely been an adventure…& beyond!

So what started out as a quick wedding weekend turned into an adventure of a lifetime. What’s shocking to me is that I had such low expectations to begin with. I blame my friend Tom Bassett who only ever described Africa to me as a “fun time.” When I pressed him, Tom would just shake his head and remark, “I can’t explain it, there’s just something about Africa. You’ll like it.” That’s not really much to go on.

And even when other people would recount to me their safari adventures, it never sounded like anything that spectacular. Just the usual “Lions, tigers and bears, oh my” sort of descriptions. I remember thinking to myself “Have these people never watched Animal Planet? Can’t you get the same experience from watching television?” Well, turns out the answer is no.

This is why mere words are not enough to adequately describe Africa. Every time you turn around, you see sights like this.

On our final night Handsome Steve and Shy Harold organized an outdoor cocktail party under the stars for us. They pulled out all the stops like this outdoor “powder room” complete with porcelain sinks and fresh towels.

Having a knowledgeable and entertaining guide is imperative to a good safari. If he also happens to be good looking, and can make a mean gin and tonic, all the better!

Even though our “cocktail party” consisted of nothing more than a few drinks, and simple snacks like freshly cooked South African sausages, homemade potato chips, and dried mango-it far surpassed any fancy 5th Avenue penthouse affair.

These lions were so close they actually touched our fender as they walked by. This is why Animal Planet cannot compete with the real thing.

And these funny water buffalo hip bumping one another made us laugh. The Abbott and Costello of the jungle.

We even saw the elusive leopard taking a leisurely nap in a tree. Don’t be fooled though, these animals are fierce predators.

They are also unbelievably smart and strong. See this carcass hanging from a tree? That’s the handiwork of the leopard. He kills his prey, then drags the body high into a tree so that other predators cannot steal his kill before he is finished eating it.

High powered binoculars are a must because we looked for not just big things but even tiny tiny animals like bush babies and minuscule birds.

We traveled in these high end fully kitted out land cruisers that can take on any kind of terrain.

Our guides spoiled us making “Ranger Specials” (hot coffee spiked with Amarula) every morning for us…and always with proper tablecloths too.

It wasn’t alway “Go, go, go!” At times we stopped just to enjoy the surrounding landscape and cool morning breezes.

Angela and I at the local watering hole in our matching safari hats. Even though the boys mocked us mercilessly, we were glad to have them. They are a must on safari.

Three days on safari and I fancy myself an expert tracker. Accompanied by my driver, Handsome Brian, I search for the Big Five.

After the morning game drive, we return to camp and relax in any of the beautifully decorated spaces to read or nap.

Angela and I even chilled out in the fabulous lodge pool one hot afternoon.

The pool is actually three pools each at a different temperature. And just like Goldilocks you can find one that is “just right” for you.

Then it’s time for lunch in the gorgeous dining room.

It’s really fun to meet other guests and trade stories with one another. Our friends, Thomas and Joan, from Scotland are in their 80’s and traveling the world. I hope this is Brian and me when we get to this age.

And then we get ready for another thrilling game drive. At over 36,000 acres, there is no way we can see it all or get bored here in Ngala.

And the sights are just unreal…like this huge lion who was just lying in the sun taking a nap right in front of us.

We go from the biggest animals to the smallest learning all kinds of wonderful things about them.

But it’s not just animals we see. Handsome Steve shows us the Marula nut from which my new favorite drink is made from. Angela and I even eat the Marula and love it. Brian thought it was terrible, and Tom would not even try it.

And we learn about herbs. This is called Bushman Fever Tea and is used as medicine. It is a wonderfully fragrant leaf that smells like a cross between lemon and eucalyptus.

We drive over anything…crossing through river beds, jungle, and steep cliffs.

And even when we don’t see any animals, it doesn’t matter. Just the unending vista before you takes your breath away.

So really, how do you adequately describe the African safari experience? I think for me, I will always remember Africa as the love of a shared experience…to a destination unknown…

…for an adventure beyond!

Destination weddings are great fun for two reasons. Usually the destination is pretty awesome, and with the exception of the wedding, guests are pretty much left to their own devices for entertainment.

Since the ceremony did not start until late afternoon, we all decided to visit a cheetah reserve for fun. I have to admit this is not really my idea of fun. I have a healthy respect, bordering on fear of most animals, so seeing hundreds of them all congregated in one place, locked up in homemade fences is not really my cup of tea. But I was wrong.

It was a perfect day for a wedding in South Africa.

The bride and groom are radiant.

Maria was so beautiful. It brought tears to my eyes.

The chapel was built high up to accentuate the marvelous views. It was so high, I felt as though they were getting married in the clouds.

So lucky to get to share in Paul and Maria’s special day.

After the wedding, cocktails were served on the lawn.

Nothing like a wedding to make you sappy for your husband.

Saudi selfie!

And then it was time for the entertainment.

African tribal dancers gave us an incredible singing and dancing performance.

And I even revealed my Zulu inner self to the world.

A lavish reception ensued, followed by more dancing and partying well into the night.

Best wishes and congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Key!

Earlier in the day we went to a Cheetah and Endangered Animal Reserve. Even though it rained, the weather could not dampen our spirits.

This sign however, made me less than excited.

There are less than 8,000 cheetahs left in existence, and this reserve cares for and tries to breed over 100 of them.

The Egyptian vulture is completely extinct in Africa. This is the bird that is seen depicted in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. They are only found in Egypt and one other country nowadays.

Wild dogs are the second most endangered species in the world. There are less than 400 left in existence. They are the most successful hunters of all the predators including lions, tigers, etc…killing over 99% of all their prey.

Look at this! Cheetahs are so much bigger in person than on television. This one was almost as big as a table.

You can’t tell, but I am totally scared in this picture. Cheetah tip: Never pet a cheetah’s stomach because they are very ticklish.

And don’t get too close to them while they are eating.

This is a spotted hyena. “Aren’t they supposed to be ugly?” Yes, they do turn ugly after one years old. This one is just a puppy, so it’s still cute. But don’t let this adorable face fool you. They are vicious, and can actually kill lions just like in “Lion King.” Mustafa is real.

There is so much to do in South Africa, but it’s hard to tear yourself away from just sitting and taking in surroundings.

Brian and I have been lucky enough to be invited to a wedding in South Africa this weekend. A chance of a lifetime right? And yet I initially declined, not because I don’t love Paul and his bride, but because I know for a fact that Africa is full of monkeys 🐒.

But Brian was determined to go. And in order to “sweeten” the deal, he upgraded us to business class. This turned out to be a great idea because Africa is actually enormous and very far away. It took us 16 hours to fly to Johannesburg! That is almost as long as it takes to fly to the United States!

This lounge is actually two stories high with super sized over the top architectural details like this magnificent staircase. Brian however, is really only interested in the bar which also happens to be massive.

Getting ready to board at 3:00 am, and happy to be with our friends Tom and Angela Bassett. But then who wouldn’t be
happy? We just spent a delicious three hours at the lounge bar with unlimited free alcohol and are completely kid free.

Flying at 3:00 am after working all day is no fun. Qatar Airways tries to ease the suffering with complimentary pajamas and convertible seats that turn into beds.

It feels weird to wear pajamas on the plane, but it’s actually great for late night flights. We were so tired, everyone skipped the inflight meal (who wants to eat a five course meal at 3:00 am anyways?), and just went right to sleep.

Arriving in Johannesburg and my first elephant sighting. And while the the airport is quite modern, Passport Control was torturously slow and painful. It was worse than Saudi-and that is saying a lot.

Of course we had to make a detour to Duty Free where I got a chance to discover one of Africa’s most famous specialties-Amarulla. This local drink is made from the nut of the Marulla tree and tastes remarkably like Baileys. We immediately buy two bottles.

We are staying at a fabulous destination wedding hotel/venue sight called Leopard Lodge.

It’s high in the mountains lush and green with all manner of plants, trees, and vegetation.

The hotel is well decorated and designed to seamlessly blend the exterior and interior spaces together.

I really love the African style architecture combined with the carefully manicured lawns.

It’s a dichotomy of styles – linen tablecloths and antique silverware juxtaposed with grass roofs and gravel floors.

This beautiful patio is enclosed with a canopy of trees overlooking spectacular mountains and a gorgeous lake. It’s like you are inside and outside at the same time!

All the Saudi guests exhausted from the long journey, but thrilled to be here.

On our way to our room which turned out to be a lovely cottage nestled among the trees.

Our home is this very rustic abode made of wood and straw. It reminds me of the Three Little Pigs!

Beautiful with simple furniture, wood floors and grass roof, it is elevated and almost like living in a treehouse.

The view however, is anything but simple. From our balcony, the mountains and lake welcome us to Africa.

The girls at the rehearsal dinner. We are treated to a traditional African braii. This means barbecue!

The location could not be more lovely. Brian and I taking a stroll and enjoying the night air. Even though it’s summer, the temperature is very pleasant and in the mid 80s.

We got to try all kinds of African specialties which I have never had before, but thoroughly enjoyed.

Even the youngest guests had a nice time.

Brian with the bride and groom and their adorable son.

Here barbecue or braii is taken very seriously. This resulted in an amazing feast with all kinds of grilled meats and other delicious offerings.

And for the first time I tried Pap. It looks like mashed potatoes, but is actually corn that has been ground to powder and cooked. It’s delicious and a daily staple in Africa.

South Africa is also known for its wines. We indulged in many fine varieties all evening long.

The boys enjoying the excellent food and drinks.

We stayed up late into the night celebrating Paul and Maria’s upcoming nuptials, in this very beautiful place.

And then it was back to our cozy cabin to relax and enjoy our first night in Africa. So far I love it! And the best part…not a single monkey in sight!

In search of Santa-Day 2 brings us to a full day of winter escapades all culminating in a Santa Claus Meet and Greet. Activities include reindeer sleigh rides, elaborate elf logistics, secret codes, and even dog sleds pulled by actual dogs.

Lapland has thought of everything right down to even providing all the winter gear we are wearing. At first I was puzzled at how the staff could possibly know our sizes to fit us correctly.

Turns out the concept of “fit” is completely irrelevant here. They just give you any indiscriminate size and then teach you about layering. By the time you have put on all the extra clothes needed to stay warm, everyone looks like Matt Damon from “The Martian.” For me, it was actually fine, because as far as I am concerned, Finland is another planet.

“Our cheeks are red and rosy and warm and cozy are we…”

All my kids seem to thrive in winter. Grace loves the bracing cold.

Olivia too is exhilarated by the frigid breeze.

Paige is boss driving the dog sled.

And while I am terrified of being wet and cold, Olivia flings herself in the powder for snow angels.

While my other two wrestle and revel in the snow.

Our reindeer sleigh ride through the polar forest. Brian gets up close and personal with Sven. The reindeer love him. 

Look at this beautiful Snow White reindeer.

We travel is these old fashioned wooden sleighs across the deep white snow. It’s ethereal and so beautiful.

My favorite picture of our family. 

One of our most fun activities was the tobogganing hills. Here’s Brian giving Grace a push off.

Nothing so exhilarating than speeding down the hill. Olivia was fearless!

Then it was on to Santa’s house where elves welcome us inside.

Here Santa is reading Olivia’s letter to him. He noted that she had a very long list.

Lunch was a Finnish specialty – Spaghetti. But the atmosphere was very rustic and charming.

And then into the enormous Igloo Ice Bar for drinks-more Baileys for me.

Olivia on a snowmobile. They have mini snowmobiles, and just let the kids go to town riding around. I was scared, but Olivia jumped in full speed ahead.

Christmas Eve includes a beautiful Gala Dinner, and it was so beautifully decorated. Very different from the Ritz, but just as lovely as far as I am concerned.

The food was another matter. This is Smoked Reindeer and Reindeer liver. I tried both, and um…they do NOT taste like chicken. Actually, the food was not bad. There were lots of other offerings that were delicious.

Brian even found a church for us so we could attend Christmas Eve mass.

And even though it was all in Finnish…once a Catholic, always a Catholic I guess, because we had no trouble following along.

What an incredible day! To all our friends and family, “Merry Christmas to all and to all…a good night!”

Our last day in London and we tried to squeeze in more London-ish activities. A spot of shopping, a musical in the West End, and dinner in a Michelin starred restaurant.

If you are short on time, don’t bother going to Harrods. It will take all of your natural life to navigate this block long monolith of a store. It’s expensive and confusing and I did not like it.

Instead go to Hamley’s, the largest toy store in London where not only are there toys, but also an entire floor dedicated to candy. You can see children squealing with delight and happiness everywhere you look…and having right proper meltdowns too.

The world famous Hamleys Toy Store. Five stories of sheer happiness if you’re a kid.

December is a nice time to visit England. It’s all decked out and there is no snow. We lucked out with a rare sunny day.

My new favorite musical in London’s West End. Highly recommended!

Prince Edward Theatre is pure Victorian style fabulousness.

Dinner at the Michelin starred Bar Boulud. 

A very chic and smart restaurant that serves gourmet pub food with a French twist.

Brian looking like a proper Englishman in his vest and tweeds

Back to the hotel and feeling a little like Eloise at the Plaza.

Bundled up for the Christmas Market – a wonderful tradition held all over Europe that we Americans had never heard of.

The Christmas Market is so fun with rides, food, entertainment, ice skating, and every magical Winter Wonderland experience all rolled up in one place

It’s impossible not to be caught up in the Christmas spirit here.

Every manner of merchandise is for sale in charming fairly lit Bavarian chalets. This one in Hyde Park has over 200 vendors.

Yes! Because Paige needs more jewelry.

And just look at the decorations!

They even make snow to order.

Olivia is 6 and this is the first time she has ever seen snow! And it’s fake. Just wait until Finland!

Paige and Olivia are the only ones brave enough to ride the Christmas Coaster.

Wow! Chestnuts really do roast on an open fire. All this time I thought that was just artistic license.

Grace having a bratwurst smile.

Look at all the cute useless things they sell.

And yet still so magical! So sad to leave you England.

If you had told me three years ago that I would be going to the North Pole of my own free will in the dead of winter, it would have only been true if a zombie apocalypse had occurred, and Finland was the last bastion of the human race. And yet here I am.

Everyone knows I am not a fan of the cold. I would go so far as to say I am an anti-fan. So this vacation to one of the coldest corners of the planet is a stretch for me. But Finland is a land of adventure, and I am up for it…I think. Santa Claus, I hope you are ready for us because the Murphys are coming to town!

Embarking for Finland at “o’dark thirty” per our commander in chief.

Ugh! Unfortunately the coffee is universally bad in London. I had to temporarily convert during my time here.

To Baileys…nothing like a drink at 5:00 am from Duty Free to start the trip off right.

If you are not lucky enough to have flying reindeer at your disposal, this is the only other option to the North Pole.

Packed with kids, the staff go all out to entertain them. The captain graciously invites each child to the cockpit for a personal visit.

The fun loving staff even had the kids sing Christmas karaoke over the loudspeaker. Olivia had a grand time entertaining the plane.

And this is our first view of the Arctic Circle as we descend into Finland. Pretty huh?

Baby it’s cold outside…to the tune of -7 degrees Celsius.

Elves welcome us as we disembark into Ivalo airport.

The little apartment Brian rented for us is not the Ritz, but is quite charming in its own right. I have no idea why they gave us a menorah but it’s very festive.

And can you believe how dark it is at only 2:00 pm in the afternoon? An hour later it is pitch black outside.

But that does not stop us from having a rousing snowball fight in the dark…

Complete with full body tackles and…

Even some reindeer games! Brian making a new friend the first night out. 

I know as Americans we categorically reject the idea of Royal families, but look at what we’re missing! Tiaras, Buckingham Palace, Prince Harry…the chance to be in her Majesty’s Secret Service?

Yeah, well today I tried to see what else the Brits had that America needs. Let me tell you, our family blazed through the city like the Great London Fire covering the town at a frenetic pace. I do not recommend seeing England this way. She should be savored to be fully enjoyed. But clearly we Murphys did not care.

Besides Brian refused to let something as mundane as time hold us back. So with the precision of military campaign and utilizing taxis, coaches, boats, and borrowed strollers we set out to see it all! Buckle in kids! We’re going for a ride….and it’s on the wrong side of the street!

St. Paul’s cathedral-built by the world renowned Christopher Wren. It is beyond impressive. The domes, statues, iron work, mosaics and frescoes are breathtaking. But just like the Sistine Chapel, you have to see it in person because no photos are allowed inside.

At the start of our day and the kids are happy and cheerful. This changes dramatically as the day unfolds.

Buckingham Palace is a complete crush. The crowds are unbearable. If you really want to see the changing of the guards, watch it on YouTube.

However, you can see the Imperial Horse Guards, and they are dashing with their regimental
scarlet capes and tasseled helmets.

Next it was on to this little place. Some chapel named Westminster Abbey. I don’t know much about it, but I heard it’s a cute wedding venue.

This sign literally saved our lives!

Our first celebrity sighting, and Olivia is star struck. Look, she’s holding his hand.

London Bridge is falling down. Technically this is Tower Bridge. Believe it or not, the real London Bridge is in Lake Havasu, Arizona.

The Tower of London is actually not a tower, but a bunch of buildings, walls, moats, etc…It’s more like a mini walled city.

Olivia thought this was for Cinderella’s glass slipper. Nope! We had to set her straight. This is where people get their heads chopped off. Haha!

And the highlight of the entire trip for me! This is is home of the Crown Jewels where all the royal monarch crowns, scepters, and other immense priceless investiture artifacts live.

And again, this is why armchair traveling just doesn’t cut it. No pictures are allowed inside. Believe me when I tell you it’s magnificent. I loved it so much, I went through twice!

Poor Brian- he lost his Crown Jewels here too.

WTH! Are those monkeys? I freaked out until I realized they are just statues. Seems at one time the Tower of London used to be the Royal Zoo.

Today only 37 of these Yeoman Warders or Beefeaters exist at any one time. They guard the Tower and have been doing so for over 700 years.

Then it was a cruise on the river Thames. Our tour guide took great pains to tell us that the Thames is dirty but not polluted. Brian did not care because they served beer.

We traveled to Greenwich pronounced Gren-itch by boat and saw this. We loved the iconic red telephones boxes, but were sad to learn London has plans to get rid of them all by next year.

Greenwich is a really lovely town. Lot of beautiful landmarks to see like the beautiful Old Navy Royal College. And best of all – no crowds.

The National Maritime Museum is the largest of its kind in the world with all manner of nautical exhibits. This is one of the golden barges that played Handel’s famous Water Music symphony for King George. That’s real gold by the way!

And amazing figure heads that decorated ships throughout history.

The Cutty Sark-sorry don’t know anything about this ship except it’s very famous and impressive
looking.

Grace my math aficionado was jubilant to be standing over the famous Greenwich International Dateline. Hey, it’s not every day you can be in both the Eastern and Western Hemisphere simultaneously.

Besides having tons of fun things to see, Greenwich is just a great town in general. We wish we could have explored this gem a bit more.

But we had places to go like the London Eye at night.

Even though I am not a fan of Ferris Wheels, this was impressive.

Look kids! Big Ben..and the entire city all lit up and gorgeous looking.

It’s like something out of Star Wars…but only 30 minutes long.

Olivia was tickled to get to ride in one of those old fashioned black taxicabs.

And taking a dip in the enormous bath tub swimming pool. After a long day, the kids enjoyed the hotel ordering ice creams and watching movies.

I have a confession to make. I never traveled as a child. Most of my notions about the world are things I’ve read about in a book or seen in a movie. So of course when we decided to go to London, I insisted straightaway (hey, don’t I sound British already?) that we all experience an authentic tea party. And where better to do that than at the iconic Ritz Hotel itself?

Make no mistake though, this hotel is not part of the ubiquitous Ritz Carlton franchises known all over the planet. The ‘Ritz London’ is one of only three original Ritz hotels left in the world, and is one of a kind.

Here its all about tradition, and the hotel is the epitome of classic British elegance where the staff still wear waistcoats and white gloves. It’s nothing like America, everything like the stereotype, and we loved every moment of it!

Merry Christmas everyone! Or as the British keep saying to us “Have a lovely Christmas!” Isn’t that so cute and British sounding?

Everything about this place is so quintessentially traditional right down to the white gloved doorman and polished brass railings.

Inside you won’t find any trace of contemporary. It’s 100% old school British elegance.

This magnificent tree greets you as you step inside the lobby.

Coming from a place where people hardly even say the word Christmas out loud much less recognize the holiday, seeing all these spectacular decorations everywhere is a glorious sight.

And the rooms are none too shabby either with classic style carpets, marble fireplaces, and REAL keys!

“Team Estrogen” as Brian calls us in our matching robes getting ready for afternoon tea.

Here everything is looked after right down to the smallest detail.

The girls conferring on which kind of tea to order. There were so many to choose from.

Grace getting some suggestions from the very smartly dressed waiter. Notice the ornate walls and ceilings.

And of course Olivia had to wear her tiara to this very special tea party.

My friend Laura told me that champagne and tea pair very well together. She was right!

Cheers!

Enjoying all the lovely offerings and Christmas carolers in the back serenading us.

Olivia even got her very own silver pot of hot chocolate.

Scones with strawberries and clotted cream. How can something so simple be so good?

All these delicate and intricate desserts were as delicious as they looked.

They are smiling here, but both these guys are not into leisurely teas. I could have stayed much longer than we did. 

And no matter how good the tea is, this is still Brian’s drink of choice