From Wallflower to (Wobbly) Wanderer!
Welcome to my corner of the internet! I’m delighted you’ve stopped by.
My UK adventure began in my late teens, intended as a brief cross-Channel trip. Four decades later, this island, particularly London, is still home. I fell instantly in love and never looked back.
When I’m not immersed in the exhilarating and challenging world of London hospitality (a delicious mix, though often a stressful one!), you’ll find me exploring life’s ups and downs. This includes invigorating walks through city streets and tranquil countryside paths (great for the knees at my age!) and a continuous journey of physical and mental well-being.
As an introvert, the word “sharer” felt foreign for a long time. My introverted nature often froze me at social gatherings – house parties, dinner dates, and especially networking events. The dread was real; I’d anticipate these moments like a dentist’s appointment, but with more awkward silences and fewer pain meds. Oscar Wilde’s words, “I am so clever that sometimes I don’t understand a single word of what I am saying,” certainly resonated.
But with time (and a graceful piling up of years!), something shifted. I developed a newfound calm. Small talk no longer felt like a high-stakes poker game; starting conversations became mostly a joy, feeling less like rocket science and more like… well, talking! I’ve embraced the glorious truth that plans go awry, and I’ll probably say something silly. But you know what? So do many others, and it’s perfectly okay! (Seriously, some things I’ve heard! But we’ll keep those under wraps for now. My inner monologue often screams, “Shut up!” but that’s just between us.)
Don’t misunderstand; there’s a difference between innocently goofy and “run for the hills” rude. But those small, innocent, silly, and awkward moments? I’m completely at ease with them now. In fact, they’re charming! As Jerry Seinfeld wisely mused, “The only difference between a good day and a bad day is your attitude.” And my attitude towards awkwardness has certainly had a glow-up!
And that, my friends, is the genesis of this blog! Consider it my personal therapy session, open to the public (minus the co-pay). I’ll be sharing at a wonderfully slow, meandering pace – think Sunday stroll rather than Olympic sprint. Expect posts on walk routes I’ve explored, architecture I admire, some of my travels, and, for good measure, a fair share of tantrums and rants.
So, welcome to the journey! And if you’ve stumbled upon new London finds, have travel memories to share, or need a good, healthy rant, please tell! I’m all ears!