Exploring History

On the way back from our recent escapades in Hastings, the other half and I took a detour on the way back to London to the historic town of Battle, site of the Battle of Hastings, 1066.

Not only did we enjoy lots of fresh country air as I ran across the battlefield, pretending that I got killed with an arrow (like poor old King Harold), but we joined English Heritage.

Escape from the M25

It’s funny how as soon as you leave London, you are transferred into another world. A world where there is not a Starbucks on every corner, where the remains of the Global Financial Crisis is clearly evident in boarded up shops and restaurants and the general quiet of a once thriving seaside destination.

Despite the somewhat depressing feel of yesteryear, I thoroughly enjoyed my quiet weekend away. Not only did I partake in some serious frolicking on the shore, I clambered over castles, pretended I was a smuggler in caves at  Smugglers Adventure, consumed fish and chips and clapped with glee as token after token came spewing out of the amusements in Flamingo Land arcade – all the while enjoying non-London prices (hurrah!).

And after being worn out with daytime activities, we stayed in the Tower House 1066, my very first Bed and Breakfast stay. A place where I enjoyed my stay (and all the night time shenanigans that a night in a hotel brings), particularly the 1970s giant fruit ice-buckets adorning the honesty bar.

But more than all of this, it was so nice, for once in my life, to be able to share my adventures with someone who will happily indulge my need to be a cheesy tourist.

 

     

Restraint

It’s London Fashion Week and my Visa card is currently hiding in my wallet, terrified that it will soon be hit with an onslaught of charges involving pretty, shiny, silky, sexy bits and pieces.

I am currently in love with this seasons clothes and have spent many a lunch break daydreaming over the Topshop and ASOS websites, and Saturdays spent fondling pretty things in Westfield. But, much to my surprise I have not indulged myself like I once used to. Instead I am making do with what I have, and purchasing only the bare essentials.

The fact of the matter is, I think I’m growing up. My desire for a house of my own far outweighs my desire for a gorgeous Ted Baker raspberry colour coat, and with the property market in its current state, it will be many years of depriving myself of beautiful things before I will have one.

However I would like to remind my loved ones that it is my birthday in November. Wink Wink, Nudge Nudge. 

Exhibitionist

On Wednesday, I shall complete my first 6 weeks of Burlesque Dancing courses.

There is something about frolicking about in feathers, and the idea that one day I’ll be taking my clothes off in front of strangers I find strangely appealing.

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved the stage, taking dance and theatre classes. As a teenager one of the few places I ever felt comfortable was on the stage. So burlesque, for me, is just a natural progression.

Even though I’m performing in a West End gym, full to the brim of sweaty, muscly gay men, in front of a group of 8 girls, I feel like I’m on a stage and all eyes are on me – and my inner exhibitionist LOVES it being all about me.

So between now and graduating from Burlesque Baby’s Academy Burlesque in a few months time, I’m going to throw myself into every shimmy and bum thrust with everything I’ve got.. and in the meantime, I’m sure the man will appreciate my efforts.