A Visit To The Country

After three weeks in England I am beginning to feel settled. I figured out how to use the dryer (which does not dry) and the dishwasher (which does not wash). Navigating through Oxford via bus, car, or most frequently my own two legs is getting easier. Lately, I've been forced to find new routes through the City Centre in an effort to bypass the teenage tourists that have swarmed Oxford. Seeing the groups of tourists in matching fluorescent t-shirts, caps, and backpacks, I am happy we decided to live in a village outside of Oxford. To answer your question, no we haven't found a place to rent yet.  

This past week we hosted our first visitors from the States, Tom and Sarah (who kindly gave me permission to mention them on the blog after a few pints at the Turf Tavern). I also had my first case of food poisoning. Yes I did say first, as I fully expect to be poisoned again during our travels. 

The benefit of having visitors, someone to take our photo! 

Bodleian Library in Oxford

Rory, Sarah and Tom near Radcliffe Camera.
They were subjected to what Rory calls the "Vanessa-razzi." 

Just a typical walk home from the pub. 

With our visitors in tow we explored Chipping Norton, which is village in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds (the Cotswolds span six counties). The Cotswolds is famous for its beautiful gardens, thatched cottages, and rolling hills.  This is where the English celebrities retire on the weekends, and people go to "get away from it all." I completely understand the allure.  The Cotswolds were stunningly beautiful, serene, and simplistic. We took a 2.5 mile hike around Chipping Norton. Looking back at the photographs, my  crappy camera was unable to capture the true beauty of the English countryside. On second thought,  maybe it was the photographer. Naaaaaaa. 

The self-guided walking tour began at this Church.

Over the river and through the woods...

Yes. I really liked this tree. I mean realllly liked it. I have loads more photos of it. 

I was very tempted to run through this meadow. 

Can you tell I loved Chipping Norton? No, not just because it is fun say. After spending the morning in Chipping Norton (ok, maybe because it is fun to say) we stopped at Blenheim Palace.  Can you even imagine living in such a place? I wonder if they take dogs?? Hmmmm.

Our view while eating lunch at Blenheim Palace 

Blenheim Palace

You ready to come and visit????