To Dance a Small Jig on the Grave of Henry the VIII
Although I’d already had the amazing opportunity to visit Windsor castle twice before, this time was really something special. You see, the first two times I visited, I was with my life long friend, Jules. And our main occupation while taking in the sights was 1. trying to get guardsmen to break their stoic demeanor and 2. to catch up on all the news from the last time we spoke. This time, sans best GF, I was REALLY able to admire the ancestral home of the Windsor’s. And more importantly, to dance a small jig on the grave of Henry the VIII.
How DID we get so lucky?
You may wonder how two vagabonds from the Michigan had the opportunity to tour Windsor Castle. In case you missed it, we were there so Stephen could absolutely CRUSH the London Marathon. And thankfully, we had a few days to see the sights before we had to head back. Having seen Buckingham Palace a few times, I told Stephen that I wished he could see Windsor Castle. Compared to that, Buckingham Palace looks like a European administration building…with better security. Since we had the time, Stephen decided we should go.
From the First Moments
Windsor and Windsor Castle held MANY wonderful memories from my childhood. But I was still surprised by the waves of nostalgia and gratitude I felt by being there. After spending a few days in London, I couldn’t help but notice the difference. Somehow the air smelled fresher, the pace was slower and the locals were friendlier.
The Castle Interior
From my childhood, I did remember the opulence and grandeur of the interior rooms. After all, this Midwest girl had never seen a castle her life.
This time, however, I was overwhelmed by something I missed the first time. The message this property was meant to convey. “If you’re thinking about messing with us, think again”.
The Guards and the Grounds
Much like my prior visits, I marveled at the Guards and their unwavering focus. Unlike the last time, I didn’t spend any energy trying to get one to smile for me. And as I recall, these young men got into a bit of trouble for waving at us from the window.
St. George’s Chapel
The first time I visited St. George’s Chapel, I was most impressed that the master sculptors could make the stone look like soft fabrics.
This time, I was AMAZED to walk past the former Kings and Queens of England. How had I missed that all these storied humans were laying right there? And as then it dawned on me, the old fat bastard, King Henry the VIII had to be nearby.
I’ll be honest, I did dance a little jig as we walked over his grave. You know, not enough for an international incident, but enough to feel good about it.
The Motto
Everywhere we looked, the motto of the Windsor’s was displayed. “Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense” which means “Shame on him who thinks evil of it”.
If the House of Liegghio had a motto, I think it would be, “Est-ce déjá l’heure d’aller au lit?” Often heard after 7pm, it means, “Is it bedtime yet?”
The Town
We enjoyed walking around the town of Windsor and got to check in on the crooked house. It’s now a wine bar called “The Shambles”.
I stopped in several shops, including an amazing vintage place that could have taken ALL my money.
And we visited this wonderful pub, where we were enjoyed art, amazing fish and chips and a pint.
The Only Thing Missing
So the only thing I really missed being there was my life long friend, Jules. I do so hope we get to see each other again some day.
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