Hello everyone, here we are, in London after a seven-hour flight from Toronto. The temperature today was +15 degrees, cloudy with a little bit of rain. We are staying with Radek’s cousin Ewa, her husband Duncan and their son Freddie. They live in a beautiful area in London not far from the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Our short walk along the Thames River:
Our first British pub:
And the garden:
Symbols of Monarchy
The Official Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| On the left, the shield is supported by the English Lion. |
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On the right it is supported by the Unicorn of Scotland. (The unicorn is chained because in medieval times a free unicorn was considered a very dangerous beast (only a virgin could tame a unicorn) |
The Royal Arms we see today have evolved over nine centuries, since Richard the Lionheart chose three lions to represent England. This symbol on the King’s shield would immediately identify him in the midst of battle.
The full version of the Royal Coat of Arms is now used only by the Queen in her capacity as the Sovereign. In the version used by the government and consequently as the official coat of arms of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the crown is shown resting directly on the shield, with the helm, crest and mantling not displayed (like in the black and white photo above).
The Queen has a separate version of her arms for use in Scotland, giving the Scottish elements pride of place.
Source: http://projectbritain.com/motto.html
Welcome to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
First day in London and I had a chance to participate in an unusual festival:Press release: Kew’s first Thai-inspired Orchids Festival
10 February – 11 March
The Princess of Wales Conservatory
- First time Kew’s annual floral extravaganza has been inspired by Thailand
- Thailand is home to 1,100 species of orchids
- Programme of Lates includes traditional food and performances
Wonderful pictures beautiful bird. Have fun. Send more xo
Thank you my darling. Still haven’t seen your cousin. Will let you know when that happens.
I told her you were coming but she’s likely quite busy with the upcoming weddings. 😉
Wow the gardens look amazing! Glad you made it and are already having fun adventures
Thank you Chandra. Ewa and Duncan take good care of us. It is wonderful to be here
How wonderful you are there to see the orchids! It really looks like spring there 🙂
Beautiful Joanna. And I love that you share the history, background and information. Can’t wait to see more!
p.s. Not sure how much favour and pull my mom has with her ‘cousin’ 😉
Amazing pics so far! Who took your pic in the tube? Your relative’ s neighbourhood looks very English! Lovei it! The gardens are lovely. Say hello to the Queen for me and especially Carson, Lady Mary and Mrs. Hughes.
Christina and Randy
Seeing the pictures from Kew’s, I’am getting into memory lane of year 1982, and I am a little jealous of not being there with you. Beautiful London has always warm place in my heart. Have a really good time, see as much as you can because it is worth it. Make sure to find the Polish food-prints which are a great deal in England.
Thank you Danusia for your comment. We will try to look for Polish footprints, but I think we need more time. We enjoy the company of our Polish family and friends.
Cudownie!
Love the pictures Joanna. Glad you had a wonderful time. May God bless you always.
Thank you Andrea!