We awoke in a dark hotel room, our bodies unsure of the day or time. The curtains were tightly closed only letting a sliver of light in through the folds. I turned to Jeff and asked what time it was. 10:00 am. Ouch! So much for getting off to an early start. We rushed to get ready, knowing there was much awaiting us as the day unfolded. He had business to do. I had a city to explore. Somehow, we'd get both done before the night came again.
Just the evening before, as I was flipping through television channels, I saw news reports of a protest that had turned into a riot downtown. Fires, vandalism, and police lines pushing back and angry crowd. This should be interesting, I thought. I wonder what we'll find there today.
While my mind was teaming with finding adventure in the city, Jeff had something a little more pressing on his mind. We did come for business after all. I loved watching him do his thing. Which he does…so well.
After that, we jumped on a bus and settled in for a ride into the heart of town. I stared mesmorized out the window at country manors, churches, chimneys, and "Harry Potter rooftops" all passing by in an instant.
Oh how the driver on the other side of the car threw me for a loop every singe time. I'd glance to my right and see a girl reading a newspaper or a little boy staring at me and freak out. Who is driving the car?! And then I'd remember…they are on the other side. Whew.
Remnants of the previous night's hullabaloo were still here and there.
And another group gathered in Hyde Park at Speaker's Corner. This time just a bit more peaceful.
When the night fell, the city had no doubt shared with us an unforgettable story. With one more yet to come.
