52wks of London

Exploring a new part of the city each week of the year; donating to Centrepoint every time.

#52wksof #London : Harder than I thought!

A Champagne Hippy Leave a comment

I must admit this has not been a simple exercise and my hat goes off to @52wksofmusic for their commitment in what is now their second year!

I thought we had done pretty well on our quest to experience new parts of London but now, in week 22, as I look back we have only managed 13 outings, two armchair excursions (TV shows “about” London) and yes, sadly, weeks of nothing!

Before we move out of London – which we hope to do before the end of the summer – we had better up the ante…!!!

I’m reminded of the quotation from WIlliam James that I found and posted on my MatchAffinity profile in 2010 (which led me to Owen) and which I will redouble my efforts towards once again:

“To change one’s life, start immediately; do it flamboyantly; no exceptions.”

1/52: Horsenden Hill (02-01-15)

A Champagne Hippy Leave a comment

Our first outing took us a couple of miles from home to Horsenden Hill, which although technically in Middlesex, has great views of North and West London from its summit.

According to Wikipedia, the site was settled 2500 years ago by Iron Age people who left behind pottery and a hill fort.

Although I grew up only a few miles from the hill, and have driven over it countless times, I’ve never taken to the footpaths through Perivale Wood Nature Reserve or to the ridge itself.

After a short walk we were rewarded with far reaching views and wonderful trees…made all the more beautiful by the bright blue New Year sky.

As we will for each of our excursions we made a donation to Centrepoint to give something back to this city of ours and to those who are struggling within it.

If we’ve inspired you, please add to our donation on our JustGiving page or via JustTextGiving by texting “LDNX52” to 70070 stating the amount you’d like to give: £1, £2, £5, £10.

Thank you.

/home/wpcom/public_html/wp-content/blogs.dir/9d0/76895514/files/2015/01/img_0557.jpg

52wks of London: The Premise

A Champagne Hippy Leave a comment

Inspired by a friend and his wife who committed to 52wks of music during 2014 (@52wksofmusic), Owen and I have embarked on our own 52wk challenge; to explore a new place in London each week.

We pondered several options: nature, culture, soul food but felt that our best way forward was to combine them whilst getting more out of the city we’ve lived in for decades.

To add an extra dimension we’ve decided to donate money to Centrepoint, a charity which helps vulnerable young people feel safe, find shelter and gain life skills to help keep them off the streets.

Our premise is simple: we spend 52wks enriching our experience of London whilst giving back to those who are struggling with the basics.

To add a donation to ours, visit our JustGiving page or via JustTextGiving by texting “LDNX52” to 70070, quoting the amount you want to give: £1, £2, £5, £10. Thanks so much.

image