John and Maisie Ripley and Mary          The London Eye

Day 59

Maidstone Kent and London, England

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Mary and I left our hotel extra early and headed for Victoria Station where we caught the train to Maidstone, Kent.  We were on our way to visit her Aunt Maisie and Uncle John.  The last time Mary saw them was in 1987.

We were greeted at the door with a hug and kiss.  Both commented that Mary had not changed a bit since they last saw her.  The Ripley’s treated us like Queens.  In additon to delicious lunch, Aunt Maisie had gifts for Mary and me.  Her daughter, Katherine had selected lovely silver necklaces for us..  Aunt Maisie, an excellent knitter, had handmade us both a beautiful white shrug. We rounded out our afternoon with a good hot cup of tea and a lovely chat in their backyard garden where her roses were in full bloom.  Their hospitality was a gift I will always remember.

When we got back to Victoira Station we decided to take a taxi across Waterloo Bridge and ride the iconic London Eye.  The London Eye is a large “ferris wheel” with glass capsules that hold about 28 people each. As you slowly go up around, you have a magnificent view of the city.  This only my third day in London and I find myself falling in love with the city.  We are making the most of every moment.

I count it all joy,

Pastor Vallerie