[visiting areas close to home = unexpected surprises]

I'm pondering the unexpected impact routine places can evoke; namely my jaunt into London today. We walked about the city, wary of using public transport, and found London had another feel. Not the dingy suffocation of the deep tube stations or the gusto of the bus driver who has happily discovered the brake pedal. Instead, we ambled though tree-shielded lanes and enjoyed resting in the deck chairs dotted about High Park. As we strolled along, oblivious to others trying to squeeze past, we were awoken from our easy chatting by the sight of an image opposite Westminster. I'm including it for your persual:


Talk about wake-up call!!! The prices in London (and surrounding areas) are absolutely crazy now. They want 93=95pence a litre! That's about 45-50 pounds to fill out tiny 1.4 rover. Geez! What about all the people driving 4x4 and gas-guzzling sedans....

Besides this wake-up call we enjoyed a lovely day in London. We managed to hit Portobello road market (no, I did not spot Kate Moss) and I found some really funky silver napkin rings. I know - I'm awfully *wild*. After out riotous excursion we met with friends for a lovely Japanese meal (note: bento boxes rule!) followed by Japanese tea (a sweet and milky experience).