Portsmouth and Norfolk

We did some sight-seeing while our parents were here and we started out by seeing Portsmouth (where we live) and Norfolk (where the school is). They are right across the water from each other. The water between them is called the Elizabeth River, which is a big inlet from the Chesapeake Bay/Atlantic Ocean. So they have a network of bridges and tunnels (the tunnels go down underneath the water so that boats and big ships and barges can pass over top, which is a little freak/cool) going to and from Norfolk, but the traffic around here is horrific (probably just as bad as Seattle, which is saying something!) so everyday Justin opts to ride his bike to this passenger ferry and go across the water. It is quicker, way more fun than sitting in traffic, gives him a little exercise and a chance to study on the ferry, etc. How cool is that? I love this passenger ferry. The paddles on the back are just for looks, but it is still pretty cool to me.

This is the view from Portsmouth looking at Norfolk

Portsmouth has a sister-city in England, so they decided to put up an English Telephone booth. For some reason it just seemed like we should kiss in it. I don't know why.

There are tons of big old churches around here that were built in the last two or three centuries, and my Mom loves old churches, so we went and toured a few. This is the Trinity church in Portsmouth.

Everywhere you go in Norfolk you see these mermaids, decorated randomly, in this same pose. We finally found out that they are the city pride symbol around here. Kind of the mascot of the campaign to take pride in your community and build a better future. I like them a lot.

The USS Wisconsin is permanently parked here in Norfolk (there is a ton of naval stuff around the area). It is an old battleship that was used in the world wars and other wars.

Me, trying to pose with the mermaid. It's actually a lot harder than it looks, and I'm sure everyone who happened to see me struggling to balance like that thought I was absolutely ridiculous! :)

Braden loves his new home sweet home!

A tallship that does cruises. I would love to go on it someday!

Another random mermaid