I arrived back in the US yesterday afternoon at around 3:30. Our flight was delayed about 2 hours, but we all made it home safely. It is a little strange to be back in America, but I am happy to see all my family and friends. This will be my last London blog, so thanks for taking the time to read about my journey and please keep in touch throughout the summer!

Last Wednesday, my flatmates and I took a train to Hampton Court. Our whole flat had read The Other Boleyn Girl, so we all loved touring Henry VII's home! It was another beautiful day, so we really enjoyed walking around all the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace. We especially liked finding our way through the maze, which was made of tall hedges. Before heading home, we took about 30 minutes to just relax on the palace lawn and soak up the sun.

On Thursday morning, I left for Crewe, England to visit the Winstanley's. For those of you who don't know, the Winstanley's did a world pastoral exchange at our church last summer. It was great to spend time with them as they showed me around the English countryside. On Thursday, David showed me all of his churches and Julie cooked a delicious dinner. David, Katherine, and I drove to Beeston Castle on Friday, which was about 30 minutes away. We visited the candle shop, hiked to the castle, and ate a picnic lunch. David also took us to see the canal locks, which were cool. On the way back to Crewe, we stopped at Snugbury's dairy farm for some tasty homemade ice cream. Friday night we ate at a local pub, where Chris joined us for dinner. After dinner, I went with Katherine and Charlotte to the Wibberly's to watch a movie. I was welcomed with a big hug from Chris' mum, who apparently heard about me through emails. On Saturday morning, David whipped me up some American pancakes for breakfast, which I thoroughly enjoyed! After breakfast, we all took a drive to Mow Cop, which is where primitive Methodism began. The ruins of a church or castle (I'm not sure which) sit on a hill above the village. We hiked up the hill for a great view and a short history lesson from David J I left Crewe later that afternoon, as the Winstanley's waved at me from the train platform. I really enjoyed my visit and it was a great trip!

Saturday evening, my flatmates and I went to Ice Bar for our last official night in London. The room and everything in it is literally made of ice. Before entering, we had to put on these huge cape-like parkas in order to keep warm. The drinks were even served in glasses made of ice! Although it probably sounds a little strange, it was sooo much fun!! My photos are priceless, since we all look slightly ridiculous in the capes with fury hoods!