British Library Treasures . . . Puttin' on the Ritz for Tea Time

Treasures Galore at the British Library!

A gallery in the British Library is home to some absolutely incredible treasures.  It includes Handel's original "Messiah" composition, written in his own hand.  Also, there are authentic notes, sketches and journals written by Shakespeare, Mozart and Da Vinci, Jane Austen's writing desk, an original Magna Carta (one of only 4 left in the world -- they have 2 of them), and Beatles' lyrics scrawled on the back of a birthday card.  We were also entranced by a Gutenberg Bible from 1455, Codex Sinaiticus, sacred texts (Korans, Buddhist and Hindu texts) from many religions worldwide, scientific works from the likes of Darwin and Fleming, and the handwritten original "Alice in Wonderland," etc., etc., etc.

It was enthralling; I could've stayed there for hours!  Loved all of it, but two of my most favorite items were a letter handwritten by Henry the VIII and his wife, Ann Bolin and Handel's "Messiah."

So wish we could've taken pictures in there, but for obvious preservation reasons, it was not allowed. You'll just have to come to London and see all these gems in person one day!  

Ritz Tea Time

Justin, Elise, Mom, Mike and I were feelin' like the snitz at the 5-Star Ritz Hotel's Palm Court for English High Tea! What a lavish environment and affair it was! We were dressed to the nines and feeling quite elegant as we sipped our herbal tea and dined on a delicate yet complex sandwich selection, airy scones and delectable pastries and cakes.  

Sandwiches included ham with grain mustard mayonnaise on slice brioche, cheddar cheese with chutney on tomato bread, breast of chicken with tarragon creamed mayonnaise and Scottish smoked salmon with lemon butter on sourdough bread. Herbal tea selections were some favorites of Rooibos Red Tea, Passion Fruit and Orange, and Chocolate Mint Rooibos. Desserts included custard and fruit tarts, decadent chocolate cake and eclairs. Their scones were thick yet light-ish tasting and, of course, came with divine clotted cream and lemon curd.
 
Chatting and nibbling the luxurious afternoon away, amongst the cream-colored Louis XVI setting with paneled mirrors in gilt bronze frames and fabulous flower arrangements, & palms, splendid music and fine china, we were peckish (hungry) and then plumped! And ever so posh!