The UK has had a big storm with high winds and lots of rain. Consequently, we decided this would be a good “day off” from the rescue. I did ride back in rain yesterday but am not keen to tackle gale force winds on the bicycle.

Yesterday after my stint at the rescue I went to lunch with volunteers. One thing the US lacks are privately owned cafes. GOOD, fresh food and beautiful homemade desserts. This is largely in part to cultural differences. Having a cup of tea here means you stop, you visit. Meeting at a cafe for a cuppa and a bite to eat is routine. Americans don’t have time for it sadly. We are too busy and in many cases don’t know what “real” food is. Our choices are mostly preservative laden restaurant chains, plates piled high with toxic ingredients. I will get off that soapbox and simply say the cafes here are lovely and I had a delicious “jacket potato” filled with the most delicious creamy chicken concoction. We have nothing like it.

I am having a leisurely morning in, working a crossword puzzle and maybe going out for a bit of shopping later. As I was making breakfast I decided to take pictures of some differences. Electrical outlets here have an on/off switch. Energy conservation is engrained in the UK culture—it is also very costly. There is no central heat and air. Radiators or wall mounted heaters are the standard. Some food is much cheaper, mostly vegetables, with a wider selection. No one has a coffee pot, though I have inspired Katie to get one! They drink instant coffee here. They may have a cup in the morning but tea obviously reigns supreme and they drink it often. Everyone does have a kettle for said tea. Yorkshire tea. No other brand will do!