Memories and Reflections
Introspective: This is one of the few photos of myself I’ve genuinely come to love, partly because I had no idea it was being taken. There’s something honest about a photo you didn’t pose for. I only learned it existed about a decade ago, through a chance encounter with my old secondary school teacher. He’d kept it all those years, and handed it to me so many years later. It was a surprise, too, to see other familiar faces in it that I’d almost forgotten. Thank you, sir!
Plant Hunter. I discovered this plant shop by accident opposite the Genesis cinema, nestled among all the restaurants and off-licenses. It’s so refreshing to see a different type of business on this road.
When we entered the Plantonium, we were greeted by a young lady who was passionate about the plant! She cheerfully answered all our questions.
The Plantonium has a wide selection of potted plants for most inner-city plant hunters and the price was reasonable. I plan to buy a Bonsai tree on my next visit.
Schrodinger’s cat. Came across this cat during my lunchtime walk resting on the wall daydreaming. Trying to elicit a response to capture an image was met with indifference. The cat ignored me and closed its eyes. It was only when I was walking away it took an interest to look back with a disapproving look!
That’s me. It’s a crop from a larger family portrait taken in Bangladesh, on a hot summer’s day at a local bazaar. Beyond that, my memory of the day has faded — much like the photograph itself. I’d almost forgotten it existed until a family friend in Spain sent it over, and seeing it again stopped me in my tracks. Time and the tropical humidity had nearly destroyed the print, and it struck me how close this little piece of my childhood came to being lost forever. I’m so grateful to my friend for sending it.
This is my first attempt at restoring a photograph. The image on the left shows how badly it had faded.
Final curtain call. After tending to the Deshi Naga Morich (chillies) for 10 months. With the onset of autumn, it’s time to say goodbye to this splendid specimen. This type of Naga is indigenous to Southeast Asia, and it has gained popularity amongst the younger Bdeshi gardeners in London! Also see gardeners’ world for different varieties of chillies grown in the UK.
Morning walks. Working from home from a small study can be isolating, but today I enjoyed watching the snow falling while preparing for online meetings.
Monday 8th February 2021
Ephemeral Beauty. Today’s photo was sent by the young guest contributor (Jenny) during her early morning lockdown run. It is remarkable how fog can transform a landscape into something magical!
Working from home. My decade-old office chair finally broke, which was not even comfortable. My decision to purchase the IKEA chair at that time, I suspect, was based on aesthetic and not comfort, a foolish decision in hindsight! Finding an office furniture supplier open during the third lockdown has been a nightmare – since most of them were closed.
Many of the online suppliers were running low on stock or did not have the chair in stock that met my requirements (i.e Inflatable lumbar support).
I was surprised to find http://docklandsfurniture.co.uk/ open. After speaking t the owner of the shop he understood my requirements and sent a few pictures immediately. Despite passing the closing time the owner kept the shop open for me to collect the chair Truly, wonderful old fashion customer service – that the online world lacks!
Drive-by. Today’s photos were sent by a guest contributor from London Borough of Tower Hamlet (LBTH). Despite the lockdown, open public space like the Victoria Park remains important to the local residents. LBTH is one of the most densely populated inner city boroughs in London with many high rise buildings with a few private gardens. It’s a vital space for the residents during the lockdown. Let’s hope everyone visiting the park is keeping a safe distance.
Both photos were taken on Sunday 17th January.
Mask. I suppose many residents are self-isolating inside the flats. Deprived of natural views and light.
