And so to half term and our trip to London continued. The photos look beautiful with the bright blue sky but it was freezing! The second part of the week was life admin, dentist, sorting everything out after our decorating projects and planning for the coming months. Here are my five things of the week …

1. A sunny Thames walk. On Monday morning, I dropped off our case at Waterloo and whilst the boys went off to do the stadium double of Chelsea and Fulham, I went to Tate Britain. I decided to walk along the Thames and it was stunning, passing the London Eye, Houses of Parliament and other sites on a bright, sunny morning. I honestly get a little thrill each time I see Parliament, such an iconic building and as a politics graduate a very special place. When I was in 6th form, we did a visit and I was lucky enough to witness PMQs with Margaret Thatcher and Neil Kinnock, a core life memory, sad but true! I felt so happy and grateful walking along the Thames on Monday morning, admiring our lovely capital city and my place of birth in bright sunshine.
2. Tate Britain. Amazingly, I had never visited Tate Britain before and from the outside I thought I was visiting a small gallery. It’s like the tardis, with so many rooms, floors and wings. I really enjoyed the 80s photography exhibition as I enjoy social history and I could remember so many of the events from my childhood. My politics were formed from life in the 80s. The galleries were great, although I definitely seem to have a preference for more modern works and sculpture.
3. Selfridges. After Tate Britain, I jumped on the Tube to New Bond Street . It’s a lovely area to explore to see all the designer shops, Vogue HQ etc.. I also went to my favourite shop, Selfridges. I only needed some moisturiser but it’s always a treat to go in and wander. I came upon a walk-in back massage concession, I stopped for a 20 minute massage and it was amazing. I love Selfridges and how there is always something new to explore and experience.
4. A new book. I do love Waterloo station for its shops, M&S for a train picnic, Oliver Bonas, for homeware and accessories and Foyles for books. I had a book token so was able to buy a book on colour, to complement my earlier gallery trip. It’s so interesting with a little page on each colour, its origins, even more social history in an easy to read format.
5. Gym membership. This week, back at home, I had a gym induction. It’s not in our town but the neighbouring town. I’m giving it a try to see if it can fit into my life. I now have to be in the town for 2 hours on a Monday whilst my son does an activity so I thought I would use my time positively. I’m also pencilling a 6.30am session on a Thursday! I do pass the gym on my way to work so hopefully it will all work out. It’s very high tech, gone are the fitness programmes on card, it’s an app now. I went on Saturday afternoon as a quiet session to try and familiarise myself with the setup as I imagine Monday eve will be busy.

It’s back to school tomorrow although earlier today I started planning for our week in Cornwall, once one break is other I like to be looking forward to the next!