London, UK

London never ceases to overwhelm me, even coming from New York. It's so big and so expensive. I love it, but can't say I will ever wrap my head around it.

We had more bad news about our elusive chinese visas (I'm not risking detailing our saga on the web until we have the visas firmly in our hands, 5th time's a charm).

All was good as we stayed in Clapham South with my awesome cousin Emma and her man Dean, and danced with our lovely friend Sharkey in nearby Brixton. We got to see some children's theatre at Battersea Art Center called The Good Neighbor. If you are in the 'hood it is fun, It did involve some running around and crawling, but one of the "scenes" is possibly the most delightful theatrical experience I have had in ages. There is also an adult part, and they got free whiskey.

Apparently we were having too much fun to take pictures, so here is a gratuitous photo of our new niece:

- Bree

Bath, UK

We spent five days playing the roles of Simon and Bee in Bath, England. My awesome nephew (pictured above, feeding his caffeine addiction) decided, at will, whether I should be called Matt or Simon. It was awesome spending time with him, my sister Colleen and my brother-in-law Dan. A few more pics below.

- Matt

Colleen, Isaac + Dan

All that caffeine turned Isaac into a ferral child

Oh, and Bath is pretty beautiful

English + Welsh countryside

After leaving Liverpool, we rented a car and drove a meandering route through parts of the English and Welsh countryside, stopping to check out Goodrich Castle in Herefordshire. It did remind me of Harrenhal, you know the place that was given to Lord Baelish (Littlefinger) in Game of Thrones. We got a little lost but made it to Bath shortly after nightfall.

-  Matt

Liverpool, UK

Bree and I spent our first few days on the road with her Liverpudlian relatives. From left to right is David, Emma, Teresa, Tom, Anne, Bree & Me. Had a really nice time, thanks to the hospitality of the family.

- Matt