Due to the lack of a church, today brought the joyous (and rare) happening of me having no admin to do... I was momentarily flummoxed... A day off? What could I do? How could I prevent myself languishing at home for hours? How could I have fun without spending any money?
After a while, I decided to pack my day with as much as possible, and squeeze in most of the touristy things I've wanted to do for ages (but never seem to have the time?!?)
I started at the British Library, for the 'Sacred' Exhibition, which is a collection of Christian, Jewish and Muslim holy texts. Was great to see all the different books and read about their history. I'm really interested in the physical language and writing used in Biblical texts, so it was fascinating to see the development of that. It was interesting to listen to what people were saying as they were wandering round. I heard at least one person say, "I really should go to church more often you know."
After this, and a nice latte in the Library cafe (how posh did I feel!), I hotfooted it round the Circle line (well, as hotfooted as is possible with that particular branch of the underground!), to South Kensington, where I visited the Victoria and Albert museum. I loved it there. The photography displays, the awesome Cast Rooms, and the fashion areas were particular favourites, along with the modern art and design areas. I spent an age in the shop too, not buying anything but marvelling at all the different arty books and fabrics etc. I think it definately makes it onto my list of favourite places.
After this I went into the Natural History museum. I wandered round the dionosaur exhibitions marvelling at the intricate skeletons, and the fantastic 'lifesize' working T-rex model they have. I really liked the NHM, and it was great for kids, with loads of 'hands on' exhibits.
I left the museum and decided to mooch round South Ken a bit, as it's somewhere I'd never been before. I loved the atmosphere of little boutiques, eclectic bookshops and intimate creperies.
Next, I dived on the district line to Wimbledon, as I was getting a bit sleepy and hungry and had decided to end the day there. I went to the Cinema and watched 'Hallum Foe', which, though not ranking as the worst film I've seen, definately ranked as one of the most bizarre! was nice to see some familiar Scottish landscape though, and Jamie Bell played his part really well. After a brief Starbucks interlude I headed home (via this, the most heated internet cafe in south-west London!!!).
Spending a day on my own has been fab. I've really felt alive and inspired as I explored the different museums and exhibitions. It reminded me that there is an arty side to my personality that I rarely 'feed'. It also reminded me that it's ok to do things for myself sometimes.
Tomorrow I am off to spend the weekend in Northampton, the 'fabulous' land of my birth. Should be great to connect with old friends, and hang out at my old church. I am running a small wager with myself though, as the last twice I have visited they have said, "As you work in prayer, you won't mind praying after the offerin, will you?" I'm seeing if I can score a hat-trick of offering prayer blessing... I always knew I had my job for a reason!!
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