Last day (Hamton Court)

Henry and I awoke before the others this morning and went out to play some golf. He's been really keen all trip but his operation spoiled any chance until now. We didn't play a full round but went to the driving range and putting green. It was great to get him out there though, and he's moving pretty well. After driving to London we went to Hampton Court Palace. On the way we passed a theme park called Thorpe Park. I made a comment that we should have gone there, to which Bec replied that she'd offered it as an option but that I'd opted for Hampton Court instead. I'd forgotten making this obvious and sensible decision, but naturally thought nothing of it when reminded. There was a different reaction in the back of the car however, as absolute uproar ensued. I didn't get many photos in there, because as usual the rest of the family galloped ahead, however the one photo I got in the great hall sums up the mood. From a historical point of view this visit was as significant as anything else we saw all trip. My favourite parts: Wolseley and Henry's tapestry collection, the original Holbein of Henry, and the private rooms from that era. These rooms saw some of the most significant events of his reign, particularly during his short but momentous marriage to Jane Seymour. After this we went through a car wash. After telling the children to close all the windows, Bec and I suddenly realised that we should fold back the rear vision mirrors. Our 1 second lateness in getting the windows back up made all the difference as soapy water blasted through the car (to much screaming and laughing from the back!). We've come through customs now, and Elizabeth has finished spending the remainder of her busking money on chocolate. The man checking the passports got Bec and Adelaide's photos mixed up, and remarked on their similarly. This drew differing reactions from mother and daughter.