"And did you see the Queen?" they will ask when we recount our adventures in Blighty. "She came to our town", we'll reply, "just to see us, don't you know." And it was just one event in this busy month.

 July began with our landlord's announcement to sell the house and ended with the signing of a lease for a nice new place to live. In between, a visit from me mum and dad, and a memorable visit from the Queen.

 If the British are in a quandary about the future role of royalty, they have few doubts about Elizabeth II. She's been a respected and faithful steward during half a century of change. Even in her twilight years she is energetic and bright, like a busy grandmum watching over her extensive family.

 To understand the English, one must understand these: They value leadership, not rulers, and move forward warily to preserve their common heritage. A monarch comes part and parcel, at least for now, and in Elizabeth the English have been very lucky indeed.

 The last bit of news is good, of course. After a few sleepless nights wondering if we would find a place in time, we finally secured the lease for a nice house in Thurston. Thurston is a village about six miles due east of Bury, near Rougham Airfield (where the Kite and Balloon Festivals are held). There aren't many houses to rent in Bury big enough for our particular needs. So we are giving up our town living for a suburban lifestyle. We will have to drive to reach shops and the 'super store', but the upside is a larger place close to playing fields, bike trails, and a school bus stop. And - bonus - it's £100 less per month!

 Chris and Elena don't seem to mind, and Judy likes the fact that the new house has a Jacuzzi. Making another move is less daunting for me now, and any place where we are together will be our home. I've already starting making the necessary arrangements. We'll be in our new base camp come September.

 Two days after the landlord dropped his bomb, my parents arrived for a two-week family visit. A few days after arrival, we were all on our way by train for a two day tour of York. Then, another week or so with us here in Bury before the long flight back.

 While my parents stayed here we visited the Duxford Aviation Museum, Sutton Hoo, and Orford Castle leaving enough time in between for them to shop the Bury Market and stroll the Abbey ruins.

 It's safe to say that people do not come to England for the weather. Summer is rarely hot or sunny (though as I write it is both), but it is the perfect place to wade into the waters of history; something these two seasoned travelers have always loved.

 I regret not living closer to them these days ... something else that's new for our family ... and Time now seems to move quickly on many fronts. Part of our choice for England was that they love it, and we could count on at least one visit during our stay. I'm glad we could be together this summer. It may be a while before we meet again.

 

  All the ladies seemed to ask the same question: Where does she get those fabulous outfits?                                                                              My own preference was for this chap's clothes. And not a bad job -- Royal Cheerleader.                      Me Mum and Dad journey to Bury-St. Edmunds for a tour of York and East Anglia.                                                  Chris & Elena in Saxon garb at Sutton Hoo.                     Chris pauses for a 'cat' break.                                           Elena makes a new backyard friend.                                                            Warning: Better bring some packing tape when you visit, Patty!