The old and the new

Thank you for all your conblipulations yesterday. That seven-year blip caught me unaware. It's good to be back.

This scene was snapped when walking to East Croydon from West Croydon. There are lots of shiny new buildings popping up in this area, but there are plenty in need of some TLC.

It's been a fun-packed day out and about. It was a special treat to be picked up and driven to the So Last Century vintage fair in Beckenham. As noted by a few of the traders there, Hayley and I were on a busman's holiday from the West Norwood Feast market. It was lovely to catch up with so many familiar faces without having to worry about health and safety and looking after a stall of our own, and not having to get up a silly o'clock on a weekend to set things up. We enjoyed a thorough browse (actual purse is not very bruised, but the mental purse spent a fortune), followed by tea and a scone. I'm so impressed by the market here – lots of great, quality vintage, upcycled treasures and retro-inspired items. 

Hayley very kindly drove me to Norwood Junction so I could catch a train to Hove, where I caught up with Fi, Mark and their girls. At eight months old, those babes are now all action and exploration. Aw, their wee smiles. 

After a bit of bus bingo in Croydon en route home (all over the shop and the trains no better), I'm back to playing Grey Mouse with Juno before bed-time.