Downtown at last.

Took the tube downtown this morning for some official tourist action. First the Tower! Grim but important place.

Chris points out where we are going next. Maybe you can't quite make it out but we got there anyway.

I guess we are required to shoot these guys. I wouldn't want to hurt their feelings anyway.

Inside the Tower is an amazing display of royal history. Here is Henry VIII's armour. Interesting!

Here is a little surprise Henry arranged for several of his wives!

Roaming around, I couldn't resist the way she matched the walls!

Then a little ride down the Thames toward Parliment and all. Very relaxing. Weather just right.

Another required shot. Pretty impressive though. Just behind this is Westminster Cathedral. It is our primary destination.

After touring the cathedral and getting a few Starbucks, we went back to attend Evensong.

Just thought it might be interesting. It was very moving. Almost a surprise to find that this actually is really a church! Anglican, by the way.

It was very difficult to get these photos because they don't allow photography inside!
Guess that's why I am a professional!

Then of course, the Knights of the Bath.

As you might see, we are really having a great time....honest! Up early tomorrow morning for a trip through the Channel Tunnel all the way to Paris. Getting prepared for the culture shock.

Travel has been pretty smooth so far and the hotel here in London has a very helpful and friendly staff.

Still not really missing any of you.....sorry!

Mark and Chris (well, really she's sound asleep but I'm sure she would agree)

Oh, found a few more shots on Chris's camera. She wants full credit but I think the model makes the difference here!

Then a couple more from Oxford. I think Bekah will have to create a line of boys stuff soon.

They are getting a little militant.

This is how it should look.

Had to get mom in a few. Merkles are all amazing. We are so proud to know them and had such a great time!

OK....now off to bed.

Oxford....Merkle Madness!

I'm sure that the two people who are waiting to see these post should be sated by this.
I want you to know, you two, that I have gone to a lot of work to make this happen way out in this backward and dyslexic land. Just send money.


On the train to Oxford for a day of shooting Merkles. We look so fresh and happy.
12 hours later, pretty much done in. But.....really really worth it.










Merkle kids carrying the world on their shoulders.

Now the work begins. Went punting on the Thames with the kids and got great photos.

A bevy of beauties. Everyone doing very well. All bearing each others burdens.

Here they are, the whole Merkle family. Couldn't pass up the geat light.

This is what we came for.....unbelievable shots.... What fun for all of us, but me most.

Whirling Dervish!

A little plot is hatched!

Somehow, this one turned sideways and I don't have the energy left to fix it. Sorry.

Wow.....Beckah is really an artist with this stuff.

In the incredible old Library. Amazing.

The lampost....the Very Lampost... which inspired CS Lewis for Lion, Witch, Wardrobe!

And finally, Brooke with her new "Friend". Charming fellow. Just have to keep an eye on this!


The whole day was absolutely amazing! Wonderful preparation by the Merkles and really perfect shooting conditions. Have a huge stock of incredible shots.

We just collapsed onto the train and now we rest up for a boat trip on the river and some proper tourist duty.

Mark and Chris

Middle of the night, London!

What a day.... all day and night in the sardine cans, and then toodle around town before sleeping to be sure we can do tomorrow. Off to Oxford to see Merkles.
Took me quite a while to get this computer connected, as usual, but I should be able to keep em coming. We don't miss any of you at all! Sorry.


Starting the day right in Minneapolis with an explanation to the law about my inquisitive camera. He pays by having his legs shown off! Nice guy, tho.

This shot was very difficult to get but here we are...on our way across the pond.

Chris showing off her pretty new money. The queen, you know.

Me showing off my fish and chips...I mean a WHOLE FISH! Ok now...

Thinking deep deep deep thoughts in a place designed for it, I guess.

The London hotel. Nice but certainly cozy! Better get used to taking up less space.

Current fashion in London transport.

And then there are the crazies!! Very cool motorcycling town.

Nothing more fun than meeting people with the camera. Great folks, all!

Doing a little shopping with the locals.

Finally back in the elevator. Longest day of our lives!

Fun with Foucachons

I thought she looked just like Grace Kelly!

Lucky guy.

Inspections

Checking everything out for the big trip. Details are so important!

Packing mostly medications!!

Jonathan turns the big Three-0 at La Casa Lopez