Simon Barratt

Back Home

We left England in the mid 30s and arrived back in Philly in the mid 30s (must convert back to Farenheit now - 90s!).

We had a great trip back, met up with family and friends.  Got re-acquainted with various foods and beers!

The kids seemed to enjoy playing with their cousins.  Thankfully, we were many miles north of all the trouble in London.

Took a quick spin round the new mecca of Football (Manchester City's stadium for those who didn't know!!)

Things you forget about and took for granted:
Glorious views
Public rights of way
Free prescriptions for children who get sick
Not having a tip line on the credit card slip!


Things that really stink:
Speed cameras!  They are all over the place.  I spent more time with my eyes peeled to the sides of the roads looking for cameras, than I did looking at the actual traffic.  Driving on the motorway was a beautfil example of choreographed car ballet!  Cars all driving above the limit, all gracefully slowing down through the cameras, then speeding up again.  It was a beautiful and comic sight!
The cost of fuel.  In two weeks, we spent $170 filling up!!!!!