Day 6 // Familiarity and Exploration

Today was a very fun day, but it was also very laid back.

Our big adventure of the day was traveling to and attending the Royal West & Bath Show! Since 1853, "its core platform to educate and showcase the finest in British Agriculture, Food and Drink and Entertainment." Taking place over four days, the Royal West & Bath Show has something for everyone.

We were greeted by David Cotton, who serves as Chairman of the Dairy Show. He took us on a short walking tour of the grounds where we were able to see sheep, pigs, dairy/beef cows, horses and dogs. All of these animals (or at least most of them) will be or have been shown in various classes.

Once we completed our tour, we split into several groups to roam around the grounds. My group spent most of the time shopping and browsing the various booths available. This Show is essentially the equivalent of a state fair that occurs in the U.S.

As we spent a few hours wondering around and taking probably way too many pictures, conversation flowed easily as we learned more about each other. When we finally sat down to eat lunch (well I ate ice cream...) we took the opportunity to discuss last night's group reflection about the "5 Why's?" We each took turns sharing the reason why we are on this trip, in addition to any follow up questions.

While it was difficult to answer for the tears that came to my eyes, I reflected upon how much this trip meant to Dr. Leal and how he is one of the large reasons I am even here. (Aside from my love of British history and monarchy of course.)

---Stay tuned for an upcoming blog post about my "5 Why's?"---

I find it remarkable how close I have gotten to so many people on this trip and how comfortable I am sharing with them. (As an extroverted-introvert I was very nervous about how this would work out.)

Once we finished our lunch and share time, we wondered back to the main entrance where we met the rest of the group before loading onto the coach bus to drive back to Bath. The drive was long because of traffic, but I did not mind because I took a nice nap.

Once we got to the hotel, we quickly dropped things off in our rooms and freshened up before setting off to explore more of Bath. This city is so beautiful.

We explored, shopped and browsed until places closed down. (Inconveniently, most everything closes by 6 p.m.) Then we found a place to eat dinner at and were actually able to eat outside and enjoy the last bits of sunshine.

Hunger satisfied, we walked back to the hotel and sat in the lobby/lounge/dining area and played a game of cards. I would love to tell you the name of the game and explain it, but unfortunately I cannot even understand the name let alone the rules. However by some miracle I managed to win a round?

This was a perfect way to end a relaxing day in a beautiful city surrounded by wonderful people. Tomorrow's sights promise to be just as breathtaking and memorable.

__________

"Life is short and the world is wide."