A day in Warsaw

Here I am back again so soon...lucky to get a computer before dinner-time...
Let's see:  we're staying in city center, rather than Old town in Warsaw....city is a lot nicer and more modern than expected...lots of activity, modern buildings, good transportation, and shopping, of course!
This morning  was a city tour: the new part and old town...first stop at a beautiful park with rose garden ( can't believe the roses are still in bloom, since Fall arrived a couple weeks ago here....statue of Chopin with tree branches in very unique design...day was a bit rainy, so pics may not be too detailed...bought a set of lovely postcards- they can tell the story of this area.  Local guide was very informative ( they have to use the local guides in each city..licensed and knowledgeable in the history and arts)..'Margaret' chatted as we walked and I heard all about local life in Warsaw..she loves USA and has visited a few times. She thinks Krakow is the 'best city in Poland'---( former capital until a fire destroyed the palace..alas, the king had to find a new palace to live in..ended up in Warsaw )...
The castle in Warsaw is kind of plain....so, we didn't do the inside tour....the churches, however, are works of art!  Gorgeous stained glass that told stories, because not everyone could read, so pictures told the story......One church is dedicated to the Black Madonna, which has a couple versions of why she was considered miraculous..take your pick!
Strolled and shopped in Old Town:  beautiful lace table topper and lace doilies ( I know, I know, what to do with all these doilies?), pretty carved wooden boxes, gingerbread ornaments/ miniature gingerbread houses....
Ventured on our own via local bus back to the hotel..stopped at the snazzy mall and did okay with shopping in foreign stores----English is not widely spoken- even in the shops...but a few more hand gestures and visa did the trick...
We're having a good 'ole time...a bit tiring, but we can rest on the train tomorrow...
Getting ready to celebrate David's birthday in Krakow on Friday...our friend Tom Herkey already send greetings in Polish..way to go, Tom!
If I don't update the blog in Krakow, I'll finish it at home .
Thanks for joining in our travels, once again:)