A Heart Full of Gratitude — to be in London

We are so happy to be here — what a beginning it has been!

After arriving yesterday morning, we made our way to the historic The Royal Horseguards Hotel, overlooking the River Thames.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were met with such gracious hospitality — true English gentlemen welcoming us with warmth that made us feel right at home.

This grand 19th-century building sits in the very heartbeat of London, within sight of Parliament, where so much history has unfolded.

We spent the entire day soaking it all in — walking streets where monarchs once ruled and history was shaped.

We listened closely to those delightful British accents and carefully remembered to walk on the left side of the street (a small victory in itself!). Renting a car? Not a chance — we’re quite content navigating on foot!

And walk we did — a lot! Thankfully, we had fish and chips at the Sherlock Holmes diner and pub! Yum! It kept us going — delicious, comforting, and absolutely worth every step.

The highlight of our day was stepping into one of the glass capsules of the London Eye. Slowly rising above the city, we were treated to breathtaking, 360-degree views — seeing landmarks like Big Ben in a way that felt almost surreal. Thirty minutes suspended above London… and yet it felt like time stood still.

From the views atop the London Eye to quiet moments watching families laugh and love in the many park areas — our hearts are full.

But as beautiful as the landmarks are, what touched my heart most was something simpler. Families. Children laughing, parents holding hands, loved ones sitting together on the grass — sharing life, love, and connection.

It reminded me of Psalm 127:3, “Children are a heritage from the Lord.” And Joshua 24:15, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” No matter the country, language, or history, the thread of family — held together by love and faith — remains the same.

Standing in a place once tied to the early history of our own nation, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. Grateful for where we’ve been — and for the freedom, faith, and family we carry forward.

What a gift this journey is. And through it all, we are reminded of our Texas roots back home AND England’s brothers and sisters (oh, how we love their accents). “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything (and everyone) in it.” (Psalm 24:1)

And oh, what a beautiful world He has made.

Different country, familiar truth — faith, family, and love look beautiful in every language.

Grateful for this journey — and the One who walks every step with us. ❤️