Letter from Kenrick Mark (45th Edition)
Letter from Kenrick Mark
Dear Esteemed Readers,
I had a peaceful Friday night sleep. I woke up at 8am on Saturday morning. I checked my emails and social media messages, and relaxed for a while. I showered around 830am and went to Alacosta Coffee. I was still using my summer jacket. The weather was really cold, the lowest temperature I have experienced this far in London. Even though I had on my jacket, I felt cold. I kept walking to my favorite coffee shop in the world. There were a few people walking around, doing errands, or just enjoying a morning walk, or perhaps tourists, exploring. When I arrived at Alacosta Coffee, I was greeted with smiles from both owners, and they said ‘Good morning again!’ The kept on ‘It’s very cold today, is it?’ I replied, ‘Absolutely, the lowest I have felt this far’. They told me in yesteryears, temperature dropped even lower during winter.
For some reason, I loved their toast and butter, with eggs and bacon! And of course, their Coffee Mocha. Later on in December, I switched to Coffee Latte, and then, Hot Chocolate, in 2016. All of their hot drinks were a winner! I enjoyed my morning with the tasty breakfast, coffee, and banana coconut pineapple muffin. I had beautiful, meaningful conversations with an elder British lady, who always happened to be there when I was (smiling). We spoke of recent events in London and Europe, and they always asked my input, as a Chevening Scholar hailing from the Caribbean. I read/browsed a few of the latest newspapers after breakfast. I left around 1030am.
When I left Alacosta Coffee, I felt really cold again. I had on my summer jacket, but my body still felt icy cold. It was while I walking back to my apartment, that I realized Winter had arrived. Autumn was over! I shivered all the way home. I was happy to reach back in my apartment. I took out my army green winter coat, from a bag I had on the shelf. I knew it was time to begin using it. I used it once before, at our Chevening orientation ceremony, but took it off for most of the tenure at the event (as it wasn’t extremely cold).
I went out again, as there was a flamboyant festival happening at the Cutty Sark ship locale. There was a huge, cheerful crowd, circus rides, games for the kids, photo booth, and many booths — selling international cuisines, local food dishes, Indian souvenirs and clothing, and so much more. I quietly walked around, observing the glamour and hurray. After the grand tour (smiling), I went down a few streets and found out new areas I haven’t seen before. There were more gardens and trees, and more residential areas. There was also a literature store — selling magazines, maps, novels, and stationery. I popped in and browsed a few books. I felt warm in my jacket. I loved the color and design too!!!
After this, I boarded the DLR to Shadwell. I walked around the area, which was about 5 minutes from Greenwich, and observed that mostly Arabs live around. I saw apartment buildings, beautiful historical buildings, shops, supermarkets and markets, and Arab restaurants/cafes. I spent around 20 minutes walking around, and I got bored. Later on in my year, I went to Shadwell again, only to take another train to Brick Lane.
I boarded a DLR back to Greenwich. I went in my room, and relaxed on my bed. I went to sleep a few minutes later.
When I woke up, it was around 7pm. I decided to go the library, and do some readings.
I gathered a few PR books, and went to my usual area on the ground floor entrance to review and read. I also had an amazing night view, while looking out the ‘floor to ceiling’ glass windows — airplanes flying high above, lights shimmering from tall buildings, people walking outside. I was simply amazed of enjoying another night in London.
I’m quite exhausted for tonight. I will continue my journey in a next edition of Letter from Kenrick Mark.
Sincerely yours,
Kenrick Mark
