Letter from Kenrick Mark (12th Edition)
Letter from Kenrick Mark
Dear Esteemed Readers,
I had toast and butter. I couldn’t get enough of that delicious European butter! I was really tired too. I slept well that night.
On Friday morning, I woke up around 9am (I believe I should have woke up earlier some days, and did a morning exercise). I showered and walked over to my home away from home — my ‘home sweet home’ in London — Alacosta Coffee! I walked in to warm greetings and smiles from the Owners, and for sure, they said ‘Good Morning, Coffee Mocha coming up!’ I felt at home. I also ordered toast, eggs and bacon (not a sandwich this time). I must mention that I rarely consume processed meats and carbonated drinks. So, this morning was an exception! I enjoyed good laughs, and conversation for a while! On my prior visits, I noticed white British elders taking the newspapers from the front shelf and reading while having their hot drinks and breakfast! This morning, I decided to do that too! I walked over to the shelf, got a newspaper, went back to my table (in the corner beside a fridge), and started reading! I haven’t read newspapers since I left Belize, so this was a good comeback to old days of reading and calming of the mind. As I turned the pages, I browsed some stories, while I read a few, and the ads always caught my eye. I did tried some biscotti (Italian almond biscuit) while I was reading the papers. It was delicious but a little ‘hard’ to bite. During my year, I was able to taste the diversity of cakes and desserts at Alacosta Coffee. I left around 1130am.
In the afternoon, I went around the Greenwich area. There were three markets: Greenwich Market, Clock Tower Market, and the Vintage Market. The Vintage Market was next door to our library. There was a huge collection of used items: clothing, glassware, home decors, dvds/tapes, toys, kitchen ware, teddy bear/dolls, croquet pillows and curtains, rum, and so much more. There was also hot coffee and scones on sale! I could smell the delicious fruited scones with clotted cream, and see the rising smoke from the coffee machine. I slowly walked around the booths, looking at the many displays of vintage items. I thought I might find a few things to take back to Belize, but the shipping might cost a fortune. Although I didn’t purchase anything, I enjoyed touring the market. Oh, I saw some great photos and books about Europe, the World Wars, British History, etc. I also spoke to a few vendors. One of the vendors (a middle-aged British guy) noticed I had on slippers. He asked if my feet didn’t felt cold. I told him that I’m from the Caribbean, and the cool weather (at current) is similar to our modest ‘winter’ in Belize (and we don’t get snow). He laughed. I wore slippers a few weeks -until mid-October. Serena asked the same question when I went to class one day. I felt comfortable and my feet wasn’t in any danger from the cool whips of breeze. I did saw a few familiar faces around the block.
After the market tour, I went home and showered. I was very exhausted after a full day! I spoke to my family and some comrades via social media, sharing my experiences and challenges, this far! I told them that I missed home but my academic schedule was holistic and it was keeping me busy now. I spoke to my comrade, Genevieve, from Belize a few times. She gave me some cooking tips, as I told her I missed flour tortilla and fried beans. She told me to purchase a non-stick frying pan to bake the tortillas. (I will be honest — I never bought the pan — smiling, thoughtfully) In Belize, my Mom usually bakes them on a comal. She also told me of her experience visiting London a few years ago. One of my other comrades, Pat, from Belize, also chatted with me occasionally. She was actually on a European Tour weeks before I moved to London. She even took photos of my University when she toured England! She always emphasized the importance of pursuing your Masters degree! We always talked about food, touring around and fun times!
I had a good night sleep. Saturday morning came quickly. I got up around 8am. I thought of going to the library to read the required articles, chapters and papers for my classes next week. I actually did that. I spent the entire day in the library — reading and understanding Public Relations articles and theories. I did took breaks, walking around the library or going for a snack downstairs. There was a Sainsbury nearby for fresh fruits, or cookies, or savory treats. There was also a Starbucks Outlet in the Library. And of course, many more cafes around. I enjoyed my time. I thought of home and my comrades while I was in library. I thought of what might happen if I fail my courses, or what if I get sick over here? There were many thoughts. Again, just thoughts.
I’m quite exhausted for tonight! I will continue my journey in a next edition of Letter from Kenrick Mark.
Sincerely yours,
Kenrick Mark
