notes on the day

Some notes on the day:
"Blustery" is a unique type of wind - it comes in gusts, it swirls leaves, it is flirtatious and messes up your hair. Today was blustery.

I have just returned from the final session of my class on international reporting, taught by a real life BBC foreign correspondent David McNeil. I was genuinely sad and disappointed to leave his classroom, although I was uplifted by his advice and comments about the world of journalism with which he concluded today's lecture with. Some of his notable lines include "journalism is a university for life" and through the profession "all doors to all walks of life are open to you." He said it is the most interesting job in the world, in that "every day you apply the same tools to the job, but the story changes every day." Quite a different sentiment to end the course than the ones that began it: that foreign correspondents put their job before all else, that it is endless stressing work, that it is dangerous and often leaves a negative impact on the reporter. I guess all things in life are give and take.

As I walked home alone from class (I like doing this - people can't hear my accent, I don't stand out as American - and then wonder if people passing me mistake me for a Londoner) I passed a man dressed in a British uniform, with a red coat and black pants and a bunch of impressive medals. Similar to what Prince William wore at his wedding. And he was just strolling around Kensington. I wish I had had my camera.

There are a disproportionately large number of babies in Kensington, most in expensive-looking prams. And then when they hit 3 or 4 apparently it is a right of passage to own a three-wheeled scooter (they all have them).

I still can't figure out if I should walk on the left or right side of the sidewalk. If they drive their cars on the left, shouldn't they walk on the left? As far as I can tell everyone just walks where they want to and assume you will get out of the way.

A baguette and cheese is considered a suitable meal. (They do make a good baguette.)

There are also a disproportionately large number of dogs in Kensington, most small and well groomed. And people don't like it if you try to pet their dog.

Pedestrians DO NOT have the right-of-way. Ever.