Rest and Relaxation

by fimbulvetr

After an exhausting few days, I decided to slow down and actually relax this morning. Most of it was spent simply organizing papers for Cambridge and tinkering with my phone to unlock it. After a quick lunch I set out on a nice stroll through town. Today’s walk led me to Hollard Park, which was more residential compared to Kensington and Hyde Park, but still hid some gems of its own.

Passing by a youth hostel, I encountered my first batch of Americans since I left Fremont. Needless to say, it felt nostalgic to hear a familiar accent. Just around the corner I discovered a set of small gardens within the park, including a Japanese garden. I have a certain attraction towards Chinese and Japanese gardens. Their emphasis on pleasing arrangements of plants rocks and water sets them apart from most other gardens. To my surprise I not only found this, but also a set of peacocks. It took a few tries to take a proper picture, but it was worth it.

I took a different route back just for some change in scenery, when I encountered a Police Box on the side of the road. For those who are unaware, Police Boxes were places you could call the police and wait safely for their arrival. More importantly, it was chosen as the outward appearance of the TARDIS, a ship that travels through space and time with  Dr. Who, England’s top science fiction show.

Once back at home I got around to reading the papers I need to understand before I can begin my research. That didn’t last too long as the arrival of my nephews from school distracted me most of the afternoon. While they share common interest in Legos and Star Wars, what really brought us together was an appreciation for Top Gear, a British automotive show. My other cousin who lives near Wimbledon even stopped by to say hello, though he kept debating with his brother whether I looked more  like my dad or my uncle.

[peg-gallery album=”http://picasaweb.google.com/data/feed/api/user/105819570346662635782/albumid/5927192175366104305?alt=rss&kind=photo” ]