london by night

By day, London is potentially one of the dirtiest and most polluted cities you could encounter. I’ll resist describing the results of blowing your nose after spending a day roaming the city centre.
However, by night, the capital is transformed into a city which boasts proud architecture, faultlessly illuminated and an atmosphere of historic pride. Standing on Hungerford Bridge last night I had a (nowdays) rare “I’m really in London” moment. An unobstructed view of Big Ben, the London Eye, the elegantly mysterious building at Whitehall and the Thames glistening deceivingly below us engulfed me with a sense of appreciation.
I never imagined this town would rub off on me like it has but, unexpectedly, I’m really starting to feel ‘at home’.
There have been similar instances in the past, where a moment has seemed significant for no apparent reason, other than that it caused a rush of emotion strong enough to settle in my memory. This one was considerably different; for once I was able to share it with someone. While the Thames reflected buildings, my personal reflections were ones of contentment.

loving the season

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE CHRISTMAS. This year is even more exciting because Christmas cards with snow are actually appropriate. When you come from Africa, or any other Southern hemisphere country, a white Christmas is a foreign concept. For as many years as I can remember I have spent Christmas day standing around a braai (barbeque) or on a boat, all the while dreaming of Christmas night in front of the fire, carolers dressed up snug in coats and snowflakes on my gloves.
The atmosphere in London around this time is so festive and for a couple of weeks everyone musters up enough effort to smile. Despite the frost, people are genuinely warm.
I’m SO blessed to be surrounded by friends and family this year which is a rare treat when you have loved ones spotted on so many parts of the globe.
I’m still in a relatively stagnant place regarding my present shopping. Perhaps my downfall is too much thought and not enough action.
Anyway, I’m just waffling because all I really wanted to say was HAPPY CHRISTMAS! And save the chocolates for me :-)

life's a laugh

It’s that time of the year when you automatically start to reminisce about the past months and reflect on all that has taken place and developed. This year has been a defining one; a period of time that has changed me in every sense and strengthened my character by means of the most unforeseen situations.
Although it has seemed I have lived from one test to the next I can’t disregard all the blessings in between, especially rewards of the lessons learned therein.
My only disappointment is that many of those I hold so dear were not here to share in it with me. There are many times when words fail miserably at trying to communicate sentiments.
I sit here now feeling older, happier, secure, determined and more complicated. Regardless of it all, I think I’ve found that the best approach to life is to laugh things off and take myself less seriously. And when you change your outlook, compatible people jump on board because they’re traveling in the same direction. Any journey is better with good company. I’m so incredibly grateful for remarkable friends, my boyfriend that so often brings joy to a dull day and an encouraging family who are loyal even when I’m so distant.
Therefore, as much as I enjoy this sentimental, philosophical attitude to life, I enjoy feeling carefree a lot more. Thank you to those ‘readers’ who have endured the last few months with me and in appreciation of your efforts I propose a more cheery blog in the year ahead.

my present situation

I’ve had a relatively quiet day at work which makes a change from the last few weeks. I thought I’d take advantage and vent my concerns at my relaxed attitude towards my Christmas shopping this year. The problem with this arises when you have family all over the world who will be eagerly awaiting the arrival of your gifts. I am tormented by the vision of my youngest sister fumbling beneath the Christmas tree in search of her present from big sister, Roxy. But it never actually arrived and so a glum look of disappointment creases her face as realisation sets in.
Oh no!! I’m a terrible sister…a terrible person!!
I could always resort to the ‘holier than thy’ approach and remind them all of the true significance of Christmas OR there is always the ‘order online’ option which promises 3-day delivery. Is that a cop-out??
I’m aware that there is no quick-fix for failure to accurately prioritise so this year I’ll have to take it on the chin and accept responsibility for biting off more than I can chew. This festive season it’s not just food in which I’m hoping not to overindulge, but life also.

toxic strain

That’s it! I’ve been trying, unsuccessfully, for the last hour to efficiently utilize my brain which is simply not functioning.
This is just one of the severe symptoms of ‘Londonitis’ (self diagnosis) which, I fear, has infected me over the last week. This common virus is known to affect those who live (or commuting into) London, work too hard, don’t sleep more than 6 hrs per night and never have time to cook a wholesome, nourishing meal. This lifestyle, practiced over many months, can seem appealing at first, but over time the physical body drains, the emotions begin to toil and the mind starts to crumple as pressure mounts. Once this culmination point has been reached, the sanctuary of a bedroom is merely not enough to re-fuel. Even a mindset change is idealistic.
Thankfully, ‘Londonitis' is not strong enough to affect the spirit which leaves enough of a person to continue until a crucial vacation.

casual friday yakking

Once again I sit at my desk on a Friday afternoon, feeling too drained to persevere. After receiving a text from Ian informing me that he was standing under the Eiffel Tower the prospect of work seemed aptly tainted. Naturally, I would much rather be with him in Paris than battling the aggravations of SAP (don’t let me get started…)!
A colleague just walked out of the office and mumbled, ‘Don’t let the evil b*tches get to you.’ His suggestion was that some of the girls in the office have been talking behind my back and found it aggravatingly enjoyable that I was left confused so he said that he would explain next week...and left. Amazing how you can stay as neutral as humanly possible and girls will still find something to gossip about…bygones (it was going to rub off at some point, Fox)!
The thought of my bed is a particularly enticing one right now, but will have to wait until after I have painted London Town red this evening. I refuse to admit that I’m maturing to a point where a night in has more appeal than one where I’m amongst the buzz of nightlife that this city has to offer.
On reflection, I’ve had a really good week thanks to great company and a change in attitude (how many times do I have to learn this same lesson?). I love looking back and acknowledging constructive use of every minute over the week.
I feel the need to comment on my lack of communication with friends and family around the globe. I’d suggest my intention to improve contact but I’d rather not make any promises I can’t keep. I will, however, endeavour to reply to any emails sent my way. There we go…guilt reduced.