Sunday 20th August 2023
I woke up early and realised it was moving day so I started early by washing my bed linen and making sure my friend's flat was all clean. I packed my backpack and because it's so warm I needed to pack my Norwegian fleece. Mmm. Space was tight so I considered using my small packaway backpack. But then I remembered I was riding my bike so I needed to keep bags to a minimum too. I did a clothes audit and realised that I hadn't worn my jeans once in a few weeks. Not because of the warmer weather but because of the pocket situation. I realised I needed to let go of the jeans. Living minimally means not getting attached to physical things. However I'd enjoyed these jeans so I kept thinking maybe I could squeeze them in somewhere, but logic prevailed.
It was time to lock up and get on my bike. The biggest fear was carrying it down the stairs but I managed. And I was quite organised with a system of phone and earphone to hear the map directions. The streets were quiet because th World Cup final was on and everyone seemed to be supporting the Lionesses. I weaved my way slowly through the streets and planned to split my trip by sitting a while in a park.
Before the park though, the wind started gusting and there was the smallest hill over the railway lines and I just couldn't pedal. So I got off and stayed on the pavement. I felt really light headed but spotted a bus shelter on the down slope so freewheeled to that and got off. Once my bags were off and the head sweat had stopped I ate some Marmite cashew nuts that I'd bought. It was just what I needed and I started to laugh when I realised where I was. Above me was the Battersea Cat and Dog Rescue Center, and I thought about dying at the bottom of it and that's why I laughed. It's a 'fitting' place to go. That sounds morbid but it isn't, and it's just how my brain works, haha.
I found the park and at the entrance, was a kiosk selling ice cream and water which was just what I needed. I marvelled at how everything seems to align and when I reached my hotel via the stunning bridge, the street I'm in is exactly what I'd wondered about last week while visiting the Natural History Museum. The street is filled with revamped Victorian style houses a few streets away from the hustle of the touristy bits.
Fortunately my hotel has luggage leaving facilities, so my bike is parked up for two nights. It's a lovely hotel and I got a great deal so I'm chuffed. My legs are covered in new bike bruises and I feel a bit stiff right now. 5 miles on a bike, in London. I'm surprised.
Sightseeing while cycling is very different. I enjoy the freewheeling but I do have to concentrate more on people, cars and paths more. It certainly helps that the weather is terrific. I'm near Earl's Court and it's amazing to see the different property and houses compared to where I've spent my last couple of weeks in Brixton. There's so many unusual styles and the house boats are fascinating.
Feeling grateful again tonight, so my heart is full even though my butt is sore.
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