Location, location, location

My suitcase broke on my trip to South Africa earlier this year. This was not entirely unexpected, as it was over ten years old and had done more than it's fair share of international travelling... however, it's replacement caused some headaches when I got home - it didn't fit in the same spot as it's predecessor!

So, I looked for a long term solution to the problem... and bought a house with a shed. Ok, it wasn't quite as impromptu a purchase as it may seem - I was slowly becoming tired of paying off other people's properties with my rent, never mind not being able to do things like paint the walls purple. Over the past few months, I'd been keeping my eye on what was available, viewing a few places but with no major hurry to make the scary leap to homeowner. The suitcase saga wasn't quite the final straw, but the timing was good as I saw a property that I liked shortly after returning to the UK with a bigger suitcase!

The next couple of weeks were taken up with paperwork and chasing solicitors - the UK house buying process is very bizarre, and stressful as having your offer accepted does not necessarily mean that you'll end up with the house! Fortunately, I was in a good position as a first time buyer, and after nurturing some patience became the owner on my mom's birthday in July!

There's been a bit of work to do on the property - painting some walls (not purple!), replacing carpets, cleaning - fortunately some willing friends were able to help me out over some weekends. I'd hoped to move in today, as I liked the date - 20.08.2008 - but that was prior to a change in medication and yet another iritis flare, so hasn't happened. It's only a matter of days away now though - the move is booked for next Tuesday. There is lots to be done - on both sides - wish me luck!

One Step at a time...

It's exactly a year ago today that I first saw the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. I'd been walking on the Camino de Santiago - the Way of St James - for two solid weeks, with the Cathedral as the destination (yes, I know - the Way is the Goal - but still, this is the traditional destination) It was a journey of just over 300kms by foot, walked partially in boots, partially in sandals... It was at times incredibly tough, at times incredibly moving, yet above all simply an incredible experience.

I've been reflecting on this journey quite a lot over the past few weeks; as I remembered buying hiking boots a week before setting off, somewhat panicked thoughts as I arrived in Spain on my one-way flight and saw the mountains in the distance, and the discomfort of the first few days. It's interesting rereading my diary a year later - it really did take a couple of days for me to settle in, and find my own approach to the Camino.

A few people along the way asked me why I was there. I didn't know then, and I'm still not sure I know even now, a year later. What is clear though, is that I learnt some valuable lessons which have stood me in good stead over the past few months on immunosuppression treatment: rest frequently, and listen to my body (extract from day 1 in the diary!).

My hope is that I will have the opportunity to experience this amazing journey once again. For now, for those currently en route or even just thinking of going: Buen Camino.

12 Days of Christmas

This was sent to me the other day and I really enjoyed it - the 12 days with a twist!

Poppy Appeal

I've done it again. For the n-th year in a row (I've lost track), I've donated to the Poppy Appeal, worn my poppy on my coat with pride... and forgotten to remove it after Remembrance Day!! I was at home yesterday and didn't notice it - but it soon became apparent today on my way home from work. I was quite relieved to see at least one other person who had made the same faux pas though.

The Poppy Appeal is an annual appeal from The Royal British Legion to be able to support those who have made a personal sacrifice by serving in the British Armed Forces. It's a long-standing tradition here, and all the poppies really brighten up the drab November days. This year I was given my poppy by an ex-serviceman, in full uniform, who gratefully accepted my donation, kissed my hand and gave me the poppy. He did comment though that he didn't kiss the hands of the gentlemen who gave donations! It was a lovely start to the morning and a much better end to the typical London rush-hour than usual.

The hills are alive!

I finally saw a West End production again this week - of course, it was 'The Sound of Music'. Although I've seen some productions in my local theatres this year, it's been some time since I've been to a West End show - and this reminded me why I should go more frequently! Sound of Music was one of the very first musicals I saw as a child, and I still love it so many years later. Although I know most of the lyrics to the songs, I did manage to restrain myself from singing along - I had warned my friends beforehand just in case I didn't... We used to sing many of the songs at home as I was growing up - as my middle name is Maria my brothers specifically enjoyed singing 'What shall we do about Maria'...!

We had a bit of spare time before the show and spent it wandering down Oxford Street, enjoying the Christmas lights - yes, they're already on. All in all a very enjoyable evening and a welcome break from reality.

What is it...

about Autumn leaves that appeals so much? I was walking to an appointment in Chelsea this morning - a beautiful clear morning with blue skies and sunshine - and the leaves were blowing about on the pavement. It was soooo tempting to walk through the leaves and kick them about - but I more or less behaved, as I didn't think the guy in front of me with the leafblower would have appreciated it much!

It reminded me of a trip to Brussels at this time of year a few years ago, where I was walking through a park and didn't need to worry about the leaves being out of place! It also made me wonder - is there a name for a snow angel made in a big pile of leaves? Fall angel? As long as it's not a fallen angel that's ok...

Braai, the beloved Country

Today is Heritage Day in South Africa. A day that has more recently been rebranded as National Braai Day - billed as an opportunity to get together, burn the past and build up a succulent future... in other words, an excuse for a party. The vision is to make it as well known an event as St Patrick's Day or 4th July... I think a little more work may be needed!

Here in the UK, it's again become rather autumnal after a lovely weekend. My participation in this year's event will thus be restricted to a celebratory beer - although the lack of a braai may also have something to do with it!