365 Project 2011

365 Project Day 323: City of the Dreaming Spires

November 20, 2011

Oxford at Sunset

In my short stay here in England, I have fallen in love with Oxford. It is often called “the city of the dreaming spires” taken from a poem called “Thrysis”  written by Matthew Arnold in the late 1800’s. This line in the poem is describing the lovely architecture in Oxford. It is something to behold.

The city itself is magical. It is a delight to the senses. Every street, every corner is laden with surprising beauty to take in and experience. The city seems to have it all. Architecture that is beyond anything I have ever seen, history, the many colleges of Oxford itself, greener than green meadows, the lovely River Thames and walking paths on both sides.  There is also a unique sense of tradition and community here. You can ride a bike or walk to almost anywhere your heart desires. In the past two days, Annie and I have walked to a regatta on the Thames, played with horses in a meadow, walked to worship at her church,  and climbed the tower at University Church of St. Mary to see the city from above. (That is where most of these photos were taken.) Breathtaking! And that is just naming a few highlights.

Here are some photos of the city I have taken over the past two days. There will be more of Annie tomorrow. She is, of course, my favorite part of Oxford.

Gathering these images like treasures. God has been so good to me in giving me such an amazing gift.

Psalm 16:11 ~”You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.”

Light in the Darkness

Sunset City View

City Lights

Castle Spires

Up on the Rooftops!

Rooftop Mosaic

The Choir Rehearses

Come In

Street Level Color

Castle Reflecting in a Window

Time for Tea

Streets Lined with Color

Mirrored Reflection of the City Life

 

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7 Comments

  • Reply kmo November 20, 2011 at 10:43 pm

    Cool!! So beautiful! I have to admit, Oxford looks a bit dreamier than Valencia. I’m so glad you’re enjoying it. 🙂

  • Reply Dinah November 20, 2011 at 11:02 pm

    Maryanne….these pictures of absolutely beautiful! I couldn’t help but think of the movie “Mary Poppins” when I saw the picture of the roof tops. Loved these pictures Mary and I am so happy that you have this opportunity to be with Annie and experience Oxford.

  • Reply cmo November 20, 2011 at 11:17 pm

    Liiiiink your elbows!

    I can totally see why you are taken with this city. It looks like the kind of place that would be a total delight for you.
    Don’t get to used to it – you are very missed at 347 PJ Roberts.

  • Reply lori November 21, 2011 at 7:38 am

    absolutely beautiful!!

  • Reply Christy Martin November 21, 2011 at 2:24 pm

    I LITERALLY got chill bumps when I saw the “City Lights” image. Beyond gorgeous. It’s breath-taking. I could NOT be happier for you!

  • Reply Mom November 21, 2011 at 10:08 pm

    These pictures certainly show why this city is known for its beauty. They are beautiful, looks almost like a fairy land. You captured the feel and beauty so well. So glad you could be there with our special Annie and share in her experience at Oxford.

  • Reply Marie November 22, 2011 at 12:05 am

    Elegant beauty. Memories captured. Stunning!!

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