Christmas started officially at the old homestead this past week. The Lakeland Christmas Catalogues (three over two weeks) arrived in the post. Decisions were made online, the order placed and delivered here. Christmas wrapping paper purchased (I went for quality rather than the three for the price of two). And yesterday found me in Borough Market where I visited the West Country Farmers' Stand for some English grown teas - I know one lady who likes specialist teas and a man too! Whilst there I could not resist the bread - so I bought a crusty number to have with cheese for my supper. But I passed by my favourite flower shop for fear I could spend my hard-earned pension here yet again!
A number 17 bus took me to St. Paul's Cathedral where I spent time browsing in the shop before buying Christmas cards and presents for someone I know.
Evensong was peaceful and rather special. I sat under the Dome and let others have the pleasure of sitting in the choir stalls.
The number 11 bus was on diversion so I had to walk the last 300 yards to Liverpool Street Station with the City workers - well, those who were not filling the pubs to overflowing for it was Friday evening and the end of a hard week when many of them may wonder if they will still be in London when BREXIT hits.
The train to Ilford was one of the spanking new ones that will ride the Elizabethan Line from Reading to Sheffield via Ilford in 2019. Very streamlined, comfortable, airy with massive picture windows to look out at the passing East London scenery. I look forward to riding to Reading in 2019. Home from Ilford by Radio Cars, for it was raining in the air - as they say - and I was more than a little tired at seven in the evening. I have known the Rastafarian driver for many years so we chatted about life in general and Ilford in particular.
