Good Ole London Town

I haven’t written in a while and it hasn’t been for a shortage of things to say but for the lack of appropriate words to express myself. I’ve had opportunities I’d never dreamed of and crossed lots off my bucket list. Since I last wrote I’ve travelled this continent including new parts of England. I’ve been to Italy, Sicily (my second trip to Italy), the Czech Republic and Croatia. I’ve been zorbing in Dorchester (picture me rolling down a hill in a big plastic ball), gone hiking in Cornwall and strolled the streets of Oxford. While all these experiences are worthy of more than just a mention, tonight my thoughts and admiration are focused on London town. Very few days go by that I do not find myself utterly amazed at the life I lead. It’s not glamorous but it’s my definition of fabulous. I am consistently swept away by this place; the people, the accents, the sense of humor, the clothes, even the disappointing weather and taste of food. I love the culture, the history, the country, and the freedom I feel here. I once was told London is great because it has four proper seasons. That’s a lie, although my British friends would argue, “There was a summer … it lasted four days.” However, there is one point that is undeniable – all four seasons are properly celebrated. Spring brings ice cubes and summer drinks like Pimms (a liquor served with real fruit chunks and “lemonade” also known as American Sprite) and Elderflower Water (a cordial with mint leaves which is also mixed with “lemonade”). Summer brings chilly days with patches of rain or an occasional storm and lots of bare mid-drifts and butt cheeks. Yet despite the weather there’s an excitement in the air of weekend music festivals and outdoor movies. On sunny Friday afternoons hard working Londoners fill the local High Street pubs. People spill onto the sidewalks with their pints and fags (yes, still a common expression for a cigarette here). As I observe the scene I can’t help but appreciate the British commitment to relaxation and socialization. I love the sounds of the city: squeaky breaks, horns honking, and lovers quarrelling - all just outside my open bedroom windows. It’s at these moments that I realize I love this city. As my program is drawing to an end I’m faced with the hard decision: do I stay or do I go? All I can hope is either way I will always appreciate the little things that make this place all that Samuel Johnson promised it would be.

#London #Life