I Spy Myself

This evening has been the first time since my return from London that I have had a chance to watch the recording of the wedding and what to my eyes should amazingly appear - yes, we made national telly.  My sons recorded the wedding on MSNBC and in the first half hour of watching I spied me and Mary.  For any of my friends or followers who recorded it we are on it when the London time is listed at 8:48 a.m. 

Now I only have to watch 10 MORE HOURS to see if we appear again.  The wedding trip that just won't end!  

Princess Diaries

Dear diary

Today was incredible. I woke early and was so excited because it was the wedding day. Although I had been planning this occasion for months it was hard to believe the day was finally here. After a long bath I took extra care getting ready. I already had planned on my outfit but was still anxious that I would look alright. My ride was right on time and as we were headed out I couldn't believe the crowds. Everyone said there would be throngs but nothing can prepare you for the sheer joy of it all. My driver was quite adept at managing his way through the streets. I don't know if it was because of my smile or the royal flags but everyone was taking hundreds of pictures as we wound our way toward the Abbey. One journalist even tried to hitch a ride with us. Cheeky lass! My smile never faded and the skies never shed a drop! Will was so handsome and Harry was on his best behavior. The ride to the Palace was probably one of my favorite moments. And the kiss!

Many people don't believe that dreams can come true and many don't see all the goodness and love that surrounds them. Today my dream came true in being just a small part of this big world. Anyone can be a queen for a day if you just believe.

Good night and God bless us all!

Lady Cynthia

A Tale of the Queen and the Turk

London is abuzz with bunting and fanfare. We did a great double decker tour and saw the sights from the best seats in town. The Mall had campers early and every newscaster in the world. We were photographed over 300 times today. Thanks to the power of CCTV. Afternoon Tea for Two at Fortnum and Mason but couldn't find a teaspoon anywhere. Back to the streets and when our legs gave out we hired a Turk with a pedicab to protect our pedicures. The only royalty we spotted today was Priscilla-Queen of the Desert! The Hotel Goring has more security surrounding it than the White House. Thought we spotted Will in his helicopter but it was just Budgy from Fergie's books. Thought we saw the not future queen, Camilla, entering Clarence Hiuse but was told it was the charwoman. Found new outfits for the wedding at a total cost of 4 and a half pounds. Can't wait for the morning. Good night and God bless us all!

Double Decker Day

Today is tour day and we are headed to Picadilly to board a double decker for the grand tour. Quite chilly here and no sunshine out yet. I haven't seen any chimney sweeps but think I saw the Bird Lady last evening in the park. Going to grape a cup of tea and head out. Wish us luck!

London is Loverly

We have arrived. First impressions: Heathrow Airport is not ready for Olympics. Expess is great way to get into town. Jet lag is hell. British have better sense of humor than I thought. Mary is a great traveling companion. Exchange rate not so good. This is easy town to walk around providing you know which way to look for cars. Coventry Garden has lots of pigeons. Hard to find Pepsi with crushed ice. Will let you know more later. On our way to afternoon matins at St Paul Cathedral. Going to light candle for Diana.

Wellies for the Wedding?

Rain, rain go away - come again another day!  It appears that the latest forecast is overcast and the royal couple may be showered with more than love on their wedding day.  For those who want the real deal here is the UK weather report:   http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/royal-wedding/8472240/Royal-wedding-heavy-rain-forecast-for-big-day.html.

Here in the United States we have the ever so fashionable poncho for major outings but I don't think it will lend much ambience to my fascinator.  And, unfortunately my wellies would definitely take me over the luggage weight limit.  What's a girl to do?

But as my hubby reminded one of his favorite movie lines from "Dumb and Dumber" if there is a one in a million chance, then there's still a chance.  So here's hoping for sunny skies.

A Rose By Any Other Name - The Royal Name Game

Have you ever noticed how royal names have a certain cache?  Perhaps it harkens back to Shakespearean times when the British language became the second romantic language.  Well, fear not my common friends as we play the royal name game.

It's simple.  Start with either Lord or Lady.  Then add the first name of one of your grandparents (or great-grandparents) then the name of one of your pets doubled with the first street name you lived on.  If I play strictly by the rules I would be Lady Carmel Jigsy of Detroit.  However, I prefer the other alternative 

Pip, pip and cheerio

Lady Elizabeth Rudolph of Wessex

Phishing for Fun

Many of my loyal readers know that I am London bound this week in honor of the Royal Wedding.  My preparations have been intense (I have even cleaned the frig and washed the clothes).  Trying to review all contingencies is one of my strong suits or obessions (according to the family).


So now I wonder what would happen if I was mugged in London and tried to get my friends to wire me funds!   Oh no, would they think it was a scam and ignore.  Early on in my Facebook years, someone did manage to hack my account and send out a desperate plea to my 500 plus bestest buddies!  And guess how many of them were concerned.  ONE!  That's right only one person called to determine if I was in need.  Thank you Leroy Houser.  


Such is my concern that I have decided to take precautions ahead of time.  Let's just go ahead and assume that I will need some extra pounds on my trip abroad.  Go ahead and drop me some cash in the mailbox and that way I won't have to worry anyone while I am away.  If each of my 1000 plus friends sent a dollar or two then I am certain I could pay my ransom and share a brew with my kidnappers.  It pays to be prepared!  Or rather, please pay me to be prepared.  


Pip, pip and cheerio.

Kate Gets a New Coat

The Keeper of the Garter (or some Mr. Fancy Pants with a title like that) has announced that Catherine (aka Waity Katie) has a new Coat of Arms.  Jeez, when we get married here in the States all we get is a new driver's license!

This coat of arms was commissioned by her dad and the 3 acorns represent the 3 Middleton children.  The most interesting aspect of this is that her Coat of Arms is only good for 10 more days.  When she marries Will, her Coat of Arms is merged with his.  So then we will have 2 lions with 3 nuts!  Hmmm.

A Gnome by Any Other Name

Aren't these gnomes just the cutest thing?  Although they don't bear a strong resemblance to Will and Kate, they are certainly a souvenir worth pursuing.  Who wouldn't want these wonderful woodland creatures protecting your garden?

These garden gnomes were created especially for the Royal Wedding by B&Q for the festivities.  My guess is that they are B&Q is similar to a Lowes or Home Depot store.  Since their website currently lists these gnomes as being out of stock I guess I won't have to worry about spending one of my London afternoons hunting them down.  But, if B&Q wants me to promote them on this side of the pond, they can always deliver them to me.  I just hope the bride's flowers won't fade in our southern sun. 

A recent check of Amazon.com list over 4500 royal wedding souvenirs - but no gnomes! Oh well looks like those tea towels and royal condoms are still at the tops of the list. 

Pip, pip and all that. 

I am a virgin VIRGIN!

One of the most exciting things about my upcoming Royal Wedding trip is the fact that I will be flying Virgin Atlantic to London!  My frequent flyer friends tell me that this is the only way to go and I am looking forward to 7 plus hours of blue skies and bliss.

Reading the web-site description makes flying sound like fun.  I can't choose between 20 movies at home and I certainly don't control my own remote.  And although my car's GPS finds a way to get me where I am going, it certainly does list my air speed nor does it have a radar control (as I unfortunately found out on a recent highway excursion).

My real hope was to score a guest pass for the "Club Room" in Dulles as well as Heathrow.  The glowing accounts of the Londson establishment makes my 4 star hotel sound dull.  A salon, hut tub, shoe polish, made-to-order sandwiches, massage and much more!  

Of course, flying first class is always an option -  if you don't have kids to put through college.  Or should I call it Upper Class.   I can't imagine being able to pay the toll for that although those seats/beds do look rather comfy.  Free peanuts and pretzels may be my best best - which is more than I got the first time I lost my virginity!  

Dirty Dancing in the Aisles

T-Mobile has got all the moves for the Royal Wedding.  Their recently released video features a great take off on the Royal Wedding party entrance.  From Camilla's bump to dashing Harry's gymnastics, they have got it going on!  Visit You Tube to see for yourself.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kav0FEhtLug

With over 4 million viewers already watching the entrance at the "house of love"  this could actually surpass the number of actual wedding viewers by the time the day rolls around in just under 2 weeks now. 

Let's just hope that Kate and Will have as much fun as their look-alikes.  And, by the way, I now understand the whole Charles and Camilla thing! 

Sunny Skies are Coming Your Way

As I begin the final 2 week countdown for the Royal Wedding, my eyes turn to heaven as I wonder will it be a wet and wild weekend.  My research has directed me to Piers Corbyn, an imminent British meteorologist who says that the sun will be shining and the wedding weather is going to be "good to perfect." 

Standing on the Sidelines - Pearls and Pumps

With less than 25 days to go and no Royal Wedding invite in the mail I am becoming more resigned to the fact that I might be watching from the sidewalk along with close to 1 million or so new friends.   This brings up a serious Fashion Question:  What to Wear?

From all reports, London weather is questionable for the nuptials so it must be all-weather and I don't think a new Burberry coat is in the travel budget.  Pants would definitely be out and I can't recall wearing pantyhose since my own wedding day 28 years ago.  It's still early in the season to be showing my winter white legs and tanning may cause cancer so this is really becoming a major issue.  And let's not forget the headgear which is probably one of the most important elements - what is it rains and my feathers drip!  Shoes - oh no!  Another dilemna - my idea of a high heel is elevated Crocs! Now I am beginning to understand why the Queen has not been awarded any Best Dressed Awards.  Hmmm...wonder what size shoe she wears?

Probably one of the best things about being there is no one will really know unless I am plucked from the crowd to join the luncheon at Buck House.  At which point, pearls and pumps will have a go of it!

Saturday Night Knight was Not Nice

Sir Elton John may need to re-think his Royal Invite after his rousing and rowdy take on the Royal Family this past weekend on Saturday Night Live.  His spoof on the Queen and Prince Philip was no-holds barred and included some rather "common" language.  One has to wonder whether his skit was designed for shock value or whether it accurately reflected his take on the royalty.

With such honored ties to the realm, Sir Elton certainly did not look like the same man that opened the 2007 Concert for Diana hosted by the Princes.  And, if the Palace decides to revoke the invite I am still waiting in the wings like a Candle Blowing in the Wind. 

Lego My Wedding

The Royal Wedding was unveiled at Legoland in the United Kingdom today.  Kate looks pretty in plastic but Prince William's medals don't quite take the shine.  The vista is complete with Buckingham Palace and royalty sporting some feathery fascinators.  One display goes so far as to feature the much-anticipated royal kiss.  And, what British media event would be complete without Elton John not to mention a very preggo Lego Victoria Beckham (minus the heels!).  And people say that the Brits don't have a sense of humor.  Mini me matrimony at its best!  Let's hope it doesn't rain on their parade.

Kate Can Have Her Cake and Eat it Too!

Just like Marie Antoinette, the new royalty can have her cake and eat it too.  Today Baskins- Robbins announced the Royal Wedding ice cream cake.  Covered in 30 white and blue roses (I wonder if they know Kate's color scheme) this chocolate mousse ice cream cake is sure to tickle some taste buds.

According to the Windsor Knot (http://windsorknot.today.com/_news/2011/03/29/6369371-baskin-robbins-reveals-royal-wedding-ice-cream-cake) the flowers were inspired by the Cotswold gardens (blue roses - really?)  and will sell for $14.99. 

So, after you finish off you Royal Dunkin Donuts have a slice of cake and a cuppa tea! 

ROYAL MADNESS AND A MAGICAL MARCH

When my boys asked me why in the world would I want to fly across the ocean and join a throng of thousands (or millions) just to get a chance to be a part of the Royal Wedding I tried to equate it to something they could understand; I said, it's like Dad going to the NCAA regional tournament each year.  It's something to see and a be a part of - it is history in the making.  They didn't get it at that time but being part of something much larger than yourself is truly coming alive for all of us in Richmond Virginia as our hometown college and my alma mater, Virginia Commonwealth University is on the road to the Final Four.

The closest thing to royalty in the United States right now is a basketball coach by the name of Shaka Smart.   Shaka is just 33 years old and is in his first major coaching position.  An intelligent and strategic coach, he is inspiring these Ram players to live the dream.  Having made it through a grueling 5 tournament games (a new record in NCAA) to reach the Final Four, the Rams are now poised to truly shine in the moment.
 
And just like Kate Middleton, he and the team are living the stuff that fairy tales are made of today.  VCU has advanced to the Final Four of NCAA basketball.  This from a team who lost 11 home games and was the butt of many jokes just 2 weeks ago when they were selected for the tournament.

Magic does happen every day and we should all grab a piece of it wherever we can!

Dinner is Wrapped

Every time I take a trip to a new locale, one of my first endeavors is to explore the local gourmet.  This has not always been the most delightful experiences as any visitor to Mexico can surely attest.  I have yet to read any travel article on England that explores the local fare.  My limited gastronomical knowledge of the United Kingdom is solely limited to two items:  Fish and Chips.  And, even those do not come highly recommended.


In conversations with those who visit the United Kingdom on a frequent basis there has yet to be a single recommendation such as "Oh, you must try the ______________at _____________Restaurant.  It is to die for."  Even the books that adorn my bedside table speak of fabulous Indian curry or Ethopian stew but there is very limited references to the a bountiful brunch in the garden or the fabulous dinner by the seaside.  


British imports include tea, cars and Burberry abounds - I guess I'll just have to explore the wonders of the Isles one chip at a time.  And, if Gordon Ramsay happens to see this I'll be happy to 
chow down with you as long as you don't use your potty mouth!

Put a Ring on It

Yes, I am now the proud owner of my very own "Royal Heirloom Ring".  Thanks to my friend Irene, who felt that this exquisite piece of jewelry was a bare necessity for my voyage to the Royal Wedding.  The accompanying "Certificate of Authenticity and Assurance" is quite impressive and it is even signed by Michael C. Travis of the Sterlington Collections.  Who the hell is he anyway?

The certificate states that the center stone is a "faux Ceylon Sapphire" (is that some special type of sapphire?) and surrounded by 14 flawless diamond-x4 hand cut CZ (starting to sound too good to be true to me).  Because Irene had to wait so long for this special order, my ring has been upgraded to a finished sterling silver plate - I think the original version was unfinished.

And although my ring wasn't presented in the Kenyan wilderness and never adorned Di's hand, it will forever hold a special place in my heart.  Because, after all, it does make me feel like a Princess!