One Summer Stop... Ibiza revisited!

Oh my dear Lord... Really?!?  
What do you say when you talk to your inner conscience or God? Do you start complaining and wanting this and that for your life to change and to be happy? Or do you simply voice how much you love him and feel grateful for all the blessings granted?

Well, from one grateful creature, here I am writing again...
Finally, it was time for my only summer vacation this year! Five days and nights, as they were primarily sleepless, in my Wonder Island of Ibiza. After all the hard work put in this summer in pursuit of my new apartment, which looks more like a demolition site at present, a restful holiday by a beach would have been what most would have opted for. And did I?!? You kiddin'? Haha.

The apartment I still reside in was sold through connections of a dear friend, Heidi and as a thank you, I asked if she would like to join me on a five-day adventure trip to Ibiza, to which she agreed, and there we were at the end of September to catch up with some typical Closing parties. But what they call closing parties goes on from the end of September to the beginning of October! There is a Closing party at each club on a nightly basis throughout that time. At some stage, Heidi and I turned around and voiced our opinions simultaneously: 
"How many closing parties are there?"  

We stayed at the new Destino Hotel Pacha, somehow chained to the forever ongoing club, which we missed this time. Last year's visit did not ly leave a great taste behind. Our flight was at 21:00 hour, and by the time we arrived at Ibiza's airport, it was past midnight. We got an upgrade at the car rental desk to a silver Golf to be collected at the empty car park by 2:00am. I tried turning the car on... No luck. The vehicle was not in gear, and I kept checking around, which took half an hour, but finally, Heidi, being young and an iPhone expert, got the GPS working (not that it ever works appropriately in Ibiza) and found a number to call and all I had to do was press on the clutch while turning the car on and boom... Our holiday began.

By the time we arrived at the reception of the hotel, dropped our luggage in the room, changed quickly and got to Amnesia, it must have been around 3:30am. Our zig-zag visits to the two rooms were totally unsuccessful as we just could not get into the rhythm of the music being played. A little too techno for our liking, so we decided to head back to the hotel and get some rest before breakfast, which conveniently finished at 11:30am, and we made it about ten minutes before closing every day! 

Amnesia Ibiza

Outdoors, facing the blue poolside, the palm trees and comfy sunbeds calling our names.
We spent our first day lounging by the pool and feasting on cocktails. My favourite was Caipirinhas with little sugar, while my friend sipped on the Miami version of Mojitos with no sugar. Sun, sea, pool, and blue skies—superb!
Back in London, Carmelita, whom I had met in Ibiza through the wonderful Dalia with whom I had spent some glorious days there before, put me in touch with one of her close friends, Chicky, on Facebook (good old FB). She called me that day, so I asked her and her sister Nona to join us by the pool later that afternoon. They were absolutely delightful, and the hours passed so fast as the night fell, and we were the last ones still laughing by the poolside.  
That evening, we took it easy and went on to meet up with an Ibiza resident DJ friend of Dalia's, Andy, for a drink at the Grail. An enjoyable chat. It's just a shame we missed him playing at KM5 on another evening. 

Destino hotel

Poolside entertainment

We began Thursday, our second day, with a glass of hot pilates at the spa. After a lot of sweating in the 40 degree enclosed salon, a nourishing breakfast and we headed to Chicky's recommended Nassau Beach. I recalled having bought a few of their CDs in the past and the day by the beach, swimming in the blue sea and absorbing the sun's heat in every molecule of my body through the Hawaiian Tropic oil of no protection. Aaaah! Bliss. I truly worship the sun and at this time, it is not half as strong as July or August.
We ate a delicious seafood meal at the restaurant, showered outdoors and with another bikini on and a Missoni sundress to top it, drove to Ushuaia's 'Closing' Party around 8 or 9pm. Labella had texted me before, knowing I was in Ibiza, organizing VIP entrances for us there and at Space afterwards. I have been almost speechless at times with friends and their very kind gestures of every sort. Whatever I do to deserve so much love... In tears.
Going to a club is certainly not the least of my meaning but the thoughtfulness that goes behind every step they take in their own way, is priceless.  

After a great dancing session overlooking the packed, gigantic poolside, we headed back to our car, parked in the car park between Ushuaia and Space, changed into shorts and tops, still in flip flops and entered Space, where Richie Hawton was playing. On the way there, walking through the beach, a man approached us stuttering and asked if we would join him and his friends, a couple sitting by the sea, and we did. They were from Serbia, and having driven to Ibiza, we engaged in some long conversation while I listened to their stories and then, off to Space we were.
We walked around a little, danced a bit more and around 3:30am drove back to our hotel. On the way, I missed a turn and oops! We headed straight into the police blocking the road, who stopped us. Heidi panicked, but I was fully in control. So, when the officer brought the blow thing, as in the breathalyzer over for me to blow in, I really was not sure what he wanted me to do as he was speaking fast in Spanish. Anyway, a blow or two later, we were let off! Oooof!!!

And that's exactly where we went on Thursday!

Latest Ibiza craze

Nassau Beach

Friday beach was Cala Basa after San Josep, where we chatted to two Dutch lovely ladies, who had left their young ones behind with the hubbies and taken some time off in the sun. Another light beach meal and back to the hotel to get ready for the cabaret at Lio's, joined by our new friends, the lovely sisters Chicky and Nona who waited half an hour for us to get there, being lost on the island highways. I drove everywhere and have no clue as to how to get anywhere still! The good old days when I had a great sense of direction. Oh well, still partying though. haha

Lio's Cabaret

At Lio's, It was pure pleasure looking into the vast area of diners and coming across Aisha's blondie locks, sitting next to more familiar faces. Once the cabaret was over, the DJ began playing, and more dancing was to be had till the early hours of the morning when we drove back to the hotel once more.

Saturday was rest for Heidi and I went by the pool despite a semi cloudy sky above. In the afternoon, I was itching to drive, so texted Aisha and she sent a direction to the villa she was staying at and as I got in the car, Heidi called to say she is up and would like to join. We drove towards the designated villa, took turns, and completed a car tour of the area. Finally, I got to a beige metal door at a cul-de-sac, as my friend had directed, where luxurious properties were somewhat in view behind fences. Aisha was not answering her phone, so I gathered that perhaps she needed a reception. Rang the bell of the beige gates, and someone opened the door; we got back into the car as there seemed to be a driveway. Went back to the entrance by car this time and rang again, the door opened once more and as two smiley joyriders we were faced with a fit but very angry looking man and a poodle watching us with questioning eyes? I, of course, could not remember the name of the person with whom Aisha was staying, so I simply asked: "Is Aisha here, please?"
The bad-tempered man signalled no with his head and pointed at the doors we had entered as I turned the wheel to get out as soon as we had come in. Thank goodness he did not have an Alsatian or a bulldog! Almost ran over his dog as he was in a hurry to leave. Gosh! Only me, as Aisha later acknowledged. 

So, with Aisha not in communication, we decided to drive to Eivissa town for a spot or two of shopping. Oh! Oh! Coming back with hands full of bags, I still had no news of my friend, so we sat at the main square for a bite of tapas. We drove back home while receiving a text saying she had fallen asleep waiting and that we must join the party she was going to later that evening, but there was no energy left.

Ibiza Sunset

Sunday was packing day as the weather was not too brilliant., We drove to Es Cavalet, according to Pietro's recommendation, the previous evening, which was too busy and hectic for our liking, with seaweed and dangling whatsits of older men! Yuk. So, we drove back to Coco Beach and settled there for the rest of our stay. Actually, no. We continued on for a bite at one spot we had missed earlier, KM5, and had a lavish meal and shisha before heading to the airport for our 2am flight back home.

Being back home for a three-hour sleep and work began. Reality check.
A few issues to deal with on renovations ahead but I am learning so much more than I ever knew about the subject and loving the challenge. On the second night back, Lora arrived to stay with me for the night and we met up with a friend I had met many years ago for dinner at Riccardo's. Most satisfying. 
Another evening last week, I was invited to dinner at a close friend of Elouisa's (whom I had met through Lora initially in the Middle East two years ago). Our hostess served us a home-cooked meal, which I cherish, especially with my excellent housekeeper on her long yearly holiday away. She also modelled her latest collection of beautifully cut jackets with leather cuffs and behind the collars.  

Friday dinner was at Hakkasan Mayfair, where Paulina and her sister visiting had booked a table at the entrance. It was somewhat surprising to see the familiar face of a blonde girl I had known so long ago, in my early twenties. She kind of smiled back but made no attempt at recognition, so I left it at that.
Then came Saturday lunch with Aisha and her good old friend Syd at the Electric Private restaurant. They lay on sofas and enjoyed a cheeseburger in full swing. It was yummy.  
Bought some flowers at the Portobello market before closing, bid my friends farewell and got back home to change and put flowers in vases, get the washing out of the machine and laid out all in half an hour.  

The evening was to be spent in the joyous company of Shane and his girlfriend Orla, whom he had been meaning to introduce, but it was not easy as she left abroad, plus one of his old buddies also visiting. We began the evening at the Barbican, listening to the 23-year-old American-Chilean musician Nicolas Jaar, who has made quite a noise in the music scene. There were a lot of youngsters in the audience familiar with his music, but frankly, I had only bought the black market ticket to be in the company of my friends, and I mostly enjoyed the Joshua light show. Perhaps I was hoping for something more upbeat and enjoyed it somewhat. Only oops, there was... I was seated next to Elroy at the back of the stalls, which were great seats, while Shane and Orla were elsewhere.  
As the concert proceeded, Elroy left and came back a while later, saying he was chatting to our friends at the bar and as an Irish expression, he added:
"I saw the guys at the bar. They sure were full of beans."
I, of course, totally mistook that, for they have taken lots of sweeties in the form of vitamin E! If you get my drift. So, as the music finally became more of a dance tune, I got up with the crowd and started wiggling my ass, then thought, better be on the same level as my friends and took a tiny bite of an E! As I swallowed it with some water, bang! The music ended. Shoot! What was I to do now? Smile!

Another couple of Shane's friends joined us outside for a smoke after the show, and I felt bubbly every second. Finally, we left the Barbican centre to hail for cabs towards the Oval Space, where DJ Dixon played. I only found all this event's information today, Monday, as the taxi ride was more like a thrilling fan fair excursion on Aladdin's carpet! Never felt that way in a London cab before. At the event, I bumped into all groups of my dancing buddies, mostly from Fabric. Always so great seeing their lovely, smiley faces saying:  "Hey Haldita!"
When I saw Aisha's smiley face coming towards me at the club, I told her:
"Darling, I was having a great time this afternoon with your mum lunching, and here I am now dancing with her lovely Girl. How blessed am I?"
She answered me back with a smile and a precious hug.
Truly Grateful.

A new/old friend who has been really sweet to me and lovely to have as a close neighbour is Paloma, with whom we recently reconnected. Kind of sad to say someone I had let back in my life got to me through harsh and totally unnecessary words, and this time round, I had to let it go completely. This is not a complaint of any sort, nor am I making anyone wrong; life is what it is, and people do not change much from within; the authentic self eventually shows its true face. Some leave and others join in the wagon of love and friendship. C'est la vie!

Happiness is a Habit. Make it yours.

 

Risk and Gain...

It may well be the bangles I wear purchased on a beach in Peru, 
Each feather earring is sourced from all corners of the world,
Significant genes are passed on through an ancestral background
The trendy shopaholic wardrobe possessed over the years
Or ...  It could simply be smiling at every moment of a life
adorned upon me, which keeps me young. 
Age is an attitude!

You reap what you sow, so make sure you let the fruit ripen
It takes time for a mere seed to grow into the bloom of a flower
A force of nature brought to us as a sign of beauty and grace.
The seasons come for a reason; the storms, clouds and sunshine
Mother nature has a magical way of suiting it's own destiny
Don't get entangled in sorrows for long and more time to get over it
Blow away the whistle of 'I had enough', get up and shake that dust
Off your clothes and being, let the light shine on through a happy face
Which says no to anger within or angry people waiting to drag you down
I am staying up, thank you very much.
Laughing all the way up the ladder of Love and happiness.

Who knows why I say what I say or do what I do?! I have let go of any control, allowing the universe to take over. Work hard, play hard, and just don't think too hard. 

Oh! How I have missed writing my blog. The past two months have brought me closer than ever to simply believing. I believe God is all around me, including my conscience. I believe in His Love and the Love created in me and am not in any way scared of sharing it with whoever touches my heart, wherever that may be. Alright! I am sounding like a preacher at a Sunday prayer. That, I'm far from.  
In fact, I got up today at 7:15am, and this is a Sunday we are talking here. Most people who know me would assume that, on a Sunday morning, I will still be at the Fabric Club dancing my feet off. Well, they close at 8am usually, and I am the only one to leave after the very end, if not after the afters. My thoughts right now are humorous and on top of the world.

So much has happened in eight weeks, and with my track record of writing long blogs, this one could end up as a book! Let's start from the beginning.

Mind you, every day is my birthday after the numerous birthday celebrations in July! The time came to put all my energy into working on selling my flat and finding a place to move to. It is funny as most of the friends I have made since my separation, who are many friends, have seen me as the party girl, tourist, shopaholic, and all hardcore, needless to say! But as a hard-working woman? Nah. Anyway, time will tell as my skates are on and the new chapter of returning to productive work and achieving goals has begun to roll.  

It has not all been just work work work; a girl's gotta have fun, you know?! Definitely lots of sexy fun. Oh boy, am I smiling! Big time. But all that is to come. First things first.
I chose not to write my blog for this period because total concentration was needed to prioritise what mattered while moving on. I want to be independent in every sense of the word and show myself what I can achieve. Since my separation eleven years ago now! Wow. Every second of life has been significant, and I am learning to get stronger to accept and believe in life's goodness. Certainly not to go down any negative thoughts, but understand them and work on turning them into a 'happy ending'! Haha. My naughty mind.

My flat was sold within three weeks of being on the market. Two buyers, one from the agents and another through friends, became candidates on the same day. There was no coincidence; there is learning every step of the way. The young, beautiful couple brought out of a Great Gatsby movie with a particular shine sparkling all around them arrived with the vibrant state agent called Hilary, who seemed somewhat breathless every time, out of all the effort she put in her running around her busy schedule, always with a smile. My heart went for their sweet beauty, and as I met them at the entrance, they were leaving, and I came back from viewing flats for a new home. The young man sweetly said:
"We loved your home."
And I answered: 
"Well, thank you. It's for sale, you know?"
And we all laughed as they parted.
On the same evening, Heidi's text message asked me to join her at the Hollywood Arms as we had not seen each other for a while. As we sat, I gave her news of selling my apartment, and in no time, she had a buyer who was about to purchase another property the following day. All I am getting at here is letting the universe take over. Once back home that night, there was no sign of certainty as to what the following days would reveal. On the same day, both buyers arrived at times similar to the young couple with the agent earlier than expected, and the family introduced by Heidi showed up later. It was overwhelming as both parties put in their offer of the asking price that evening. It was the most disturbing night of my life, or it so seemed at the time, thinking how to go about this. There was an agent fee to consider, and I made an offer to the young couple, which they could not reach, and hence, the new owners of my flat became the family Heidi had introduced. The young couple will one day understand my reasoning behind the decision and find their dream home. Some things are meant to be, and one has to accept and move on. What to do?!

I had exhausted the pages of properties for sale in some regions of interest through every site on the internet and every agent of the regions possible. From 2:00 to 3:00am, hours were spent in search engines instead of writing blogs, digging for information and pictures to help design my new place before knowing what it would be. Then again, much thought and energy went into imagining the exact space in my mind and letting it go to higher powers of magical possibilities. One thing is for sure, Frieda's garden in Peru inspired me to look for a place with a garden. Not that we typically get much sun or warmth in London, except this summer, which was delightful all the way, and I spent it all here for the first time in the forty years of living in this country!  
The night the buyers were chosen for my flat while searching high and low for properties for sale online, I came across a photo of a conservatory-like living space, which immediately took my heart away. However, the sudden sale of my flat and the work involved with solicitors and so on left me only time to call any agents a couple of days later. 

To cut a long story short, I went, saw, loved and got!
In fact, on the second day of viewing the garden flat, I made my offer and realised I had forgotten my mobile at home, which hardly ever happens. It was surprising and, obviously, a choice I had to make on my own, without any outside input. I cannot quite express the feeling inside when you know something is right and you have the means and guts to decide. Coming back home, I picked up my mobile, tapped in the code and was faced with a photo my brother Soltan had randomly sent to me of our father and me on his last days while I had my head resting over his loving shoulder, arms entangled around his arm and dad looking at me with pure Love. I cry, going over this in my head every time. Dad was sending me his blessings after I had made my final decision, and my brother, always supportive of what I do and behind me like a rock, was the source of sending it to me. If only everyone could see and feel the magic of life. It does happen every day, in different forms, to us all. 

We were taught not to use so many I's in our writing at school, but François, the loving, wise therapist and life teacher I have been blessed to learn many life lessons, had taught us otherwise. He said: 
"If you've something to express relating to yourself, use I, not we. What others believe is not your journey."

As it happens, there has been an attractive man who has appeared in my life, too. I must stress there has not been just 'one' man alone at any time since my separation! I used to say, Why do you settle for one when you can have the freedom and choice of having many?! Haha.  But meeting my spaceman Rex has been a delight. Our date began with a drink on a Friday evening, going on to another couple of hours spent at Bar Boulud, chatting and laughing at almost every other word the other said, all on a tastefully humorous yet sexy content, as animated as the notes on a music sheet. The Friday drinks dragged on to Sunday afternoon, on and off. It must have been the longest time I have ever spent with anyone for a while now! If you are old enough to remember the comic science fiction sitcom Mork & Mindy (1978-1982), you will then remember how the alien, Robin Williams, would report to his planet Ork about what he had learned on Earth and about the earthlings. Do watch their Mixed Emotions series on YouTube. Nanou Nanou.  
We have met several times since that weekend, and talking to Rex is as amusing as a pleasure.

I must mention the extravaganza of fabulous food, mixed with a joyous company of old and newly made friends, at Aisha's dinner last Thursday. One of my very favourite hostesses, with the mostest. I know it's not an actual word, but hey, ho!

On the last Monday, Paloma, a friend of many years who only recently reappeared, asked whether I would join her at an art exhibition in a gallery on Cork Street, Mayfair, in the early evening. With all the demolition on site of my new property, starting that day, it was necessary to get away by the evening, so the invite came as a perfect escape. Paloma and I drove to the gallery with a unique energy flowing around from entering. Her friend Pauli, who had sent out the invites, was at the entrance, welcoming everyone with his larger-than-life smile. As the champagne flowed, jazzy live music began, and the space was filled with exceptional air. Towards the middle of the room, a painting with perfect colouring of the shades picked in my head to use as a colour scheme in my new place pulled my whole attention towards it and ...  I fell in Love! Hopelessly. It was as though no one or no other painting existed. In my world, there was only music and my lover, the painting by Sarah Güsten-Marr. A beautiful woman of African descent, full of life and stories to tell. Our friendship is on the cards as we have spoken several times on the phone since. After the purchase (can't take you anywhere, Girl, without you buying something, mama would say), Paloma and I ended the night at the bar of Cecconi restaurant while getting acquainted with the American sitting next to me. We had a delightful dinner and chat before heading our own separate ways.  

Also on the horizon are the bikers: Dustin, with whom we had a flirtatious and fun lunch in the sun a couple of weeks ago and have been in contact since, and last but certainly not least, my 'Man from U.N.C.L.E' Christofer, who paid a visit for a nourishingly exciting and perfect way to spend the wet Saturday evening of delights. Am I greedy? Not the least! Haha.

The few paragraphs here are only the tip of an iceberg of emotions and hard work that went through two months of searching and keeping a positive outlook. I came home last Wednesday after twelve hours of seeing my contractor, electrician, kitchen supplier, and the new architect feeling drenched and alone (not lonely, but alone). Upon closing the door behind me, I wept helplessly. Yet again, another moment of challenge and crossing comfort zones beyond none experienced had come my way. It was lovely to cry and let it all out, and as of it, the reality of the situation came clearly as the bluest of skies; this is part of learning to be strong and to let go of any unnecessary thoughts, but the one truly there. All is great, and I am blessed to be here right now, doing something I love. Nothing to complain about. So, as Nike says, Do it, Girl!
Both my completions took place on the same day: to sell and to buy.

The Notting Hill Carnival was held yearly on the last weekend of August to close off in a festive mood. The Monday Bank Holiday was spent in the great company of Troy and Lyla, driving to the festivities and parking the car at least a mile from the event. We walked by the canal and, with Troy's excellent sense of direction, got to the road where Sancho Panza was DJaying. We arrived around 15:00 hours late and had to stand between people trying to get into the gated area and the police, who stood firm and tried to be as friendly as their job allowed. As Troy went on to talk to one of the officers, I noticed a good-looking fella hiding behind that black hat with the shining star. Then, looking at him up and down, my eyes stopped at his waistline, and I uttered:
"Mmm ...  I like your handcuffs!"
At which point Troy's immediate response was:
"Haldita, behave, girl!"
And the policeman, trying hard to hide his cheeky smile, looked away and muttered:
"I didn't hear that! I didn't hear that!"
It took a while before the gates were open, and everyone surprisingly sprung out into the open space as though they were set free. An extraordinary moment that was. At the music event, quite a few of our mutual friends turned up, and the whole afternoon, with the sun blowing the clouds away and its rays reaching our every soul, we danced in harmony and bliss. Another cute, friendly police officer stood close to me, watching the crowd with a smile, so I approached him again and asked if we could take pictures together. He welcomed the idea. Next thing, I was posing to kiss his cheek, which I did anyway, so he asked whether we should swap hats for the next shot! Seriously cute.  

 

The walk by the canal

The colourful Notting Hill Carnival

Food vendors

The friendly policeman dancing with the jolly boy!

Walking back - Canal by sunset.

The aftermath all cleared up on the night.

We ended the carnival at a house party of another couple, who were the perfect hosts. They gave us refuge on the comfy sofa of their living room, and we got acquainted with a few others.  

Forever grateful and happy, life goes on, and I am ready to face every challenge that comes my way with a smile and understanding that this is the only way to learn.

I see every day as the first and best day of my life!

Bombarded with Love...

A life... Full and Filled!
Filled with Lovely people and knowing everything is as it ought to be.  

The weeks are passing by fast, and there has yet to be any kind of property deal, which is what I am seeking at present. But I finally came to realise that I should stop worrying. Think of solutions and realise everything will happen at the right time, in the right direction. It is fine except for the ones we create for ourselves.  

On that note, I worked hard all week and partied even harder all weekend!  
Going around Chelsea Harbour and re-visiting the interior design shops has been fun, bringing back great memories of my working days. The weather in London has been most desirable; as it is hot and mainly sunny, which makes me not go away for now, it is pure bliss. The streets are empty as everyone has disappeared to their summer retreats of packed beaches. Driving around the city with the roof down and excellent music playing is nothing less than a joyous summer. There is nowhere else I would rather be now. Nitya's garden party by the pool on a mild Friday evening, mixed with an international crowd of jet setters, making new friends and seeing familiar faces while the rosé champagne flowed around, was another evening not to be forgotten.

On Saturday, the 13th of July, my plan to stay in and save my energy for the following birthday weekend could have gone better! What a surprise again. At about 1:00am, I got ready and drove to Fabric; no wonder they call it my second home. Spent most of my time either dancing in the DJ booth or getting more familiar with faces whose paths we had crossed before. The decision to leave at 5:00am did not happen, so after more dancing and following Judes from room to room in the club, I finally managed to go at a decent hour of 9:30am, had breakfast alone at Paul's and then drove back in full sunshine with the roof down again. The sun energised me, and I didn't want to sleep, so I texted Aisha, who had woken up and asked me to join her for Turkish coffee on her balcony with Kristel. Soon after, Risha arrived. Lazing in the heat and enjoying each other's company left us hungry by 2:30pm, so we headed to Thomas Cubitt pub for a gastro meal, which nourished every taste bud, and finally, by 6:00pm, I was ready to hit the pillow.

So many often ask me:
"Haldita, where do you get your energy?"
Energy must be a state of the mind; when you let go of troublesome thoughts and make peace with yourself, you have peace with the world and everything around you. Conquering unnecessary imaginations of anything negative and replacing them with good deeds and constructive ideas everyone can benefit from is authentic living. When remarks have headed my way as:
"Haldita, some of us have to live in the real world."
Well, my world is as accurate as I make it out to be, and I choose to see the bright side of it all, the good rather than the bad and the beauty rather than anything unpleasant.  

Another highlight of last week was an engagement party at Notting Hill with Jane and Russ. Unlike the 8:00pm start of the party, I managed to get there before 23:00 hour, fashionably late as usual! Great to see Donna there and catch up with the news while we sat outside the open space and then to get into a deep conversation with Gloria, who sang beautifully at one of my parties and hear her latest spiritual development, not dissimilar to mine, each in their own way magical. She agreed to join my house party the following evening.

What happened on the following Saturday was my birthday. The day began at lunch with my girl and boy, who had invited me to a gastro meal in Mayfair; I could not have been more proud of God's special blessings. Afterwards, we drove around London, and after dropping them to their destinations, I got home to answer the many sweet messages of great wishes. The wicked had no rest as I got my flat ready for the night party at 22:00 hour. Kim came over to give me a hand with the preparations, and it all kicked off as the guests flew in through the door with music and laughter. The plan was for those who wanted to join Fabric later to either attend the party at my place or meet at Fabric later at 1:30/2:00am. There was such a high energy of loveliness floating in the air that it did not allow me to sit down for a minute but mingle with the adoring friends who had turned up. Somehow, the living room always gets filled up, and I need to find out exactly who will come and who won't.  

By 1:00am, many had already backed off from the idea of clubbing and went their way as the seven of us made it to Fabric at my favourite table, and others followed suit from other destinations. DJ Dan Ghenacia ended the night, or the morning, with a big bang. We danced our feet off till the closing time of 8:00am, then went on to drive with Kim and Troy to have breakfast at 9am in Aubaine. Shame they did not serve champagne! All I recall is having love all around me and great music. A genuinely mind-blowing night.  

Bedtime was before midday as Kalina had fallen asleep and missed the party; she texted to organise a meeting at 3:00pm at my place to drive to the Lovebox festival in Hackney. We had not seen each other since January, so spending a whole afternoon with more fabulous music in a sunny London park was best for us to spend together. The VIP tickets were courtesy of Labella, who had couriered them to me on Friday. Judes happened to be there too, and we managed to find each other at the vast Red Bull tent where DJ Harvey was playing in London after ten years of immigrating to the US. Wow!

Lovebox Festival - Hackney

DJ Harvey

I have learned that life is truly an illusion of our mind.
Nothing is quite what it seems to be.
There are twists and turns to every story. It is always complex.
People will judge you according to what they feel inside. It is not your problem.
Positive thinking brings joy into life; we deserve to be happy.
Spread the love around, smile and show the world you are content and no one can touch you.
Meditation has been the best discovery of self and how the universe can work my way.
Embarrass those who are unkind with your goodness.
You will never know who may rescue you at different stages of life, so be kind to everyone who passes your path and let go of those who do not appreciate you.
Only I am responsible for my actions and how I feel.
The secret of looking young is feeling young. Never lose touch with the child in you.

And now, I'm 54, and boy, I want more!
Wishing you ALL Love and Peace.

We Live What We Believe!

Do you know why my life will always be wild... Or mad?
Coz it's got me in it! Haha

Last night was an inspiring dinner of words and an orgasmic sense of the pallet with Donna at the new Five Fields' Chelsea restaurant. A calming decor of earthy colours, charming waiters at hand and the luxurious indulgence in gastronomy make this restaurant one of my top favourites. After a gratifying eight-course meal, I can safely say: "I felt like a stuffed Turkey!"  Over the three-hour dinner, Donna and I returned to discussing the latest spiritual developments in our lives. If you are wondering what this could imply, it is about the messages we receive through words that come to mind. It is a matter of recognising between good and bad thoughts, separating them and understanding when inspiring thoughts and deeds arise to fulfil our lives. When the higher voices speak, the chitter chatter of nonsense leaves the way for the good to appear in our minds, followed by the need for action. Life has a new meaning, and fear slowly disappears in the background. There are moments of downs in all our lives, but is positive thinking and being a part of our genes? This only came to mind when a lovely lady, who may seem 'a hard woman' to some, was once again complaining of her depression, mentioning that this was in her genes and that her family are all manic depressives!  
"Really?!" I thought.
It then made me think of my therapist, François, who had taught me about ancestral patterns and how important it was to recognise them and make the necessary changes. After all, our life is in our own hands. We can make it, we can break it. It is all about the choices we make. To some, and even to myself, at times, I live in a bubble of happiness which no needle or even screw could possibly burst.  

The reason I have not been writing my blog regularly is all the time I spend daily on the computer flat hunting and then calling the various estate agents to view them. One day, I returned home exhausted mentally and somewhat physically, feeling down and unloved! That was on Friday after looking at more flats that did not fit my criteria of the image I had created in mind of my new place.  
An apartment that had taken my fancy was next to development in Earl's Court's demolition of the vast exhibition centre, close to the underground, which apparently ran under the flat. It was somewhat disappointing, but one day, feeling a little down is only natural and will make the good to follow so much more appreciative. By Saturday, everything had returned to normal, full of beautiful surprises.

Saturday began with breakfast at Aubaine's Kensington branch with Sophie (one of my oldest friends) and a proper catch-up of the past months. It reminded me how one got trapped into creating gossip merely out of discussing someone else's life, in my eyes, quite harmlessly. All the years have passed, and now, our exchanges have taken on a more fulfilling turn, not about talking of anyone but journeys of enlightenment and forever trying to find happiness within. The two hours passed as fast as twenty minutes, and it was time to move on to our next rendezvous. Mine was a meeting with Gina for a drive, deep house music blasting through the breeze out of the open roof towards the private Shoreditch House in the East End. We had one and a half hours to kill before our 3:00 pm lunch with Nitya at the club, so walking around Brick Lane, struck by a mild smell of curry which rose from the Indian restaurants, was the best alternative! The sun shone in full force with a gentle breeze, and I even managed a little shopping for a loose white top and a funky tracksuit bottom. Phew! Gina explained how she once walked around the area checking out the street art. 

Brazilian artist

Brick Lane

Time had flown by again, and we made our way to Shoreditch House, where we met up with Nitya, whom I knew from various meetings at parties and clubs but only got to properly chat after. The pleasant lunch on the rooftop, watching the GG crowd of gays and girls covering every inch of the poolside in swimwear, was fun. 

Nitya left after the meal, and Gina accompanied me on the drive home. After another fun drive, my friend went as I had to prepare for an exceptional visit by the sexy Christofer! A perfect way to ...  Not entirely end but continue on an extraordinary day already. Sipping on rosé champagne and catching up on where we had left off gave me even more energy to text Kim immediately after my lover parted at midnight. As Cinderella was on her way home, I got ready to drive and pick Kim up for a drive to Fabric. My second home, some might say!


Goodness, did we have a great time again? Seeing Judes, which is nothing short of pure pleasure, listening and dancing away to Terry Francis blasting room 3 with his tunes, mingling amongst the crowd of clubbers and seeing more familiar faces, Malik's warm hug and sweet smile, all accompanied by a dear friend was the ultimate joy anyone could possibly experience. We left the club with Kim at a decent 8:00 am to nourish our hunger with breakfast at the Chelsea branch of Aubaine.  
So, my weekend began with breakfast at Aubaine on Saturday and almost ended with the same on Sunday morning—nonstop! Time for sleep had finally arrived.
However, the men's Wimbledon tennis championship was taking place that Sunday afternoon. After a four-hour morning sleep, I woke up before 2:00 pm to watch The Brit Murray beat Djokovic in a super game with some of the best rallies in tennis. Finally, after 77 years, Britain had a winner! Fab.

Charming speech by Djokovic.
True Sportsmanship.

Andy Murray... It's all yours, Hun!

And look who we have here!

Last Wednesday, on a school night (for those who go to school), Lawrence invited me to dinner at Bob Bob Ricard's trendy Soho restaurant. It was great seeing him, as always, with his utter charm and sensibility. Afterwards, his friend Luigi, accompanied by Sobha, was introduced to me at the bar of the eatery, and we decided to join the boys for a boogie at the Room Service club, walking distance to where I had parked my car. One thing is for sure: in a gay club, the music is bound to be good, and it was that, but the tiny basement was filling up fast, and Sobha and I bid the boys farewell, and each went our separate ways. It was another midnight hour, and my car had vanished from sight as I wandered through the back streets of Soho. My shoulders were in pain; miraculously, a Chinese massage parlour appeared in front of my naked eyes! Very decent, with special leather seats showing through the glass window. At a mere £10, I walked in and had a fantastic fifteen-minute back and neck massage, easing discomfort. Walking out of the place and realising I was somewhat lost, two distinguished-looking gentlemen in black tie escorted by an elegant lady passed me by. I stopped the single male pedestrian and asked if he knew where Regent Street was. He immediately brought out his iPhone and helped me walk with me while the four of us chatted along the way. 'How civilised!'  I thought as I drove off.

This week began by hosting Ricky and his partner Tim on Monday evening for a city tour in my car in the early evening, followed by a walk around Covent Garden, where we had dinner. They requested I close the roof of the vehicle, which was such a shame on such a pleasant evening and despite their special request of one being a vegetarian and the other's dislike of anything spicy or rich, it was quite a surprise when they chose a French restaurant in the area and ended up both having a coq au vin! I thought they did not drink alcohol, either. Oh well, everybody to themselves.
Talking of visitors in town, it was such a relief and joy to have Paulina cancel our lunch on Tuesday and instead pay me a visit at home for a special mint and ginger tea. Again, our enlightening conversation was positive and left me wishing we could meet more often. Who knows? Brazil is a country I would definitely go back to one day.

And my week's créme de la créme was tonight, meeting up with an old boarding school friend, Juliana, who had travelled to London with her young son. We met last in New York some twenty-eight years ago! And here she was at my doorstep after all this time. Nothing much had changed in us except the experience of all the decades that had passed, bringing us together now on a higher understanding of friendship and love. We only recently connected through Facebook, realising how important timing is in our lives.

After a gastronomic week of all senses; food, drinks, drives in the sunshine, friends, dancing and exchanging love, not necessarily in that order, the time has come to share an intimate thought (certainly no secret) with you readers, my virtual friends ...  
Age is not simply a concept; it's a fact of life; it is all the years of experience. So far, another year has passed for me, full of adventures, meetings, and significant changes taking place as I write. Celebrating every day with gratitude is a goal I aim to achieve till my last breath, with a higher understanding of love. It does not mean being a pushover or tolerating anything that upsets me, but looking at it more broadly and letting people around me know where they stand.

This year, it was 53 and Fancy-Free.
Soon, it will be 54... And I Want Moooore!

Tick... Tick... Tack! Tour of London

What would it be if you were to lean out of the window as far as your body could allow and shout absolutely anything from the bottom of your heart out into the world outside?
My words would come out from my lungs deep inside; shout out:
"God, I fuckin' Love YOU!"
 Think that sums it all up.

Been absent from my blog for almost three weeks now! So, time to catch up.
It's a sunny, warm and typical Sunday early evening here in London. A swirl of a breeze is flowing through the vast, open living room windows, into the corridor of light grey horizontal stripes with a slight shimmer of silver, channelling a loving spirit of many whose paths have crossed mine in the past, finally into my boudoir which is experiencing a certain feeling of emptiness already as I have decided to move on with my life, beginning with the sale of my apartment in Chelsea. Boy, thank goodness these walls 'don't' talk!!! My blog would be child's play if they did. Haha.
Also, I've been flat-hunting for a garden apartment. The patio, living room, and bedroom design is almost completed. Now, all I have to do is find the apartment. I was told how important it is to put your thoughts and ideas into the universe, and they will be granted. Let the angels take the role of a Genie, so let's see what the forces will throw my way. No doubt, I will keep you posted on that.  

As a result of all the changes to come, Kim joined me today at the Battersea car boot sale, which takes place every Sunday. Come rain, come shine. This was a first for us; the 28-degree heat was no joke. It happened in London, and we chatted to all sorts of people who passed by where we had laid the goods gathered from my worldly travels, mainly clothes, I must add. The roof of my car was half open, and Ibiza music compiled by my brother Soltan was playing. It helped me choose my next dance partner in Fabric, the cutest 2/3-year-old boy who could move from that young age. Kim was a natural at attracting buyers with her flair and charm, carrying a lace beige umbrella above her head; while I wore shorts and a cowboy hat, we made a few friends along the way.
The day was a total success, and it helped me get rid of a whole bunch of extras in my life. The rest will head to the charity shop tomorrow; I must always give something back.

Diversity is the name of the game!

Going back in time, last night was the wedding of family friends with our kids, the Ex with his new lady whom I had met once at the Pop Up store when he purchased four of my prints; she is charming and pretty. We decided there and then to keep in touch. Coooool.
In the surroundings of what was a proper blossoming English garden with a
It was somewhat overwhelming to connect with so many friends from the past; most married couples, we used to mingle with and be repeatedly asked if we would go back together since our relationship is so amazingly amicable. My answer was pure and simple... "Nope."
Sabi even asked: "Was your Ex the love of your life?"
Without a thought, I answered: "Yes."
He was indeed because now I see it clearly. How else would I have lasted those difficult years of learning as I did and still have so much respect and love for him? It's just a different sort of love. We spent over twenty years together; surely that counts a lot. He is an extraordinary man in my life and always will be.
At the dinner table, I sat next to Mimi on one side and the twin sister of a beautiful, gentle soul, Gemmy, who lost her life to a brain tumour. As, naturally, the conversation between the three of us was directed clearly towards Gemmy, it was only apparent that she was with us at that table, in spirit. The bride's mother, a very dear old friend Melody, who is full of love and kindness, and her husband had organised a night to be remembered by all. The touching, humorous speeches by all parties kept everyone smiling, and the two daughters, including the bride, were full of sweetness and joy.  

Saturday midday was spent with Labella, a new Fabric buddy, at the Borough Market, set in the city, introducing a rich culinary experience. I will say it repeatedly: nowhere beats London on a sunny summer's day in the world. We walked around the stalls of food vendors, from cheeses to olives, sourdough bread to fresh fruit and flowers, and chatted away while eating lunch purchased on the spot. It was the beginning of a great weekend.

Southwark Cathedral

Inside the market

Jumi Cheese
Jimmy Choos
Jumi Choos
Jimmy Cheese

To be devoured?!?











On a Friday evening, Aiden, the sex therapist I had met a year and a half ago, appeared in promising words on my iPhone out of the blue and suggested he pay me a visit. This all sounds soooo not what it was! Whether I needed to see a sex therapist at a time in my life (not long ago) or not is irrelevant. In fact, Aiden had mentioned I should be doing his job, but nah, I may mistakenly get them more addicted! Haha.  
Dinner at the Balthazar in Covent Garden with Shelley was a three-course meal. We started with a couple of their speciality, Aperol spritzes, my favourite summer drink. 

The week before passed, my brother Soltan and his lady Tuba paid a visit while Mum and Sis Hala were also over. On a Friday, we threw a party for family and close friends, with noticeable diversity in cultures, age and outlooks, but all lovingly adorable in their rights. The party was a joyful event that only made me feel even more blessed with everyone who enriched my life with their love.
On Thursday, Camden Market was calling. Hala suggested we visit as Soltan had not been for a while, and it was Tuba's first. It was a memorable cloudy but pleasant afternoon, rafting on the canal and listening to the live music played by the duo of young men and their female companions. I turned my iPhone music on, and we smiled at the passers-by on Little Venice.  

 

Camden

The Love Birds

The musicians on board the Little Venice Tour

Camden Market by the canal

We, en famille, also met up with Tony, a good friend of Soltan's, for a cocktail at the roof terrace of Radio Bar, followed by the club Project, showered by champagne by our host! Where I reconnected with a super couple, Theos and Rosemary. It was a pleasure meeting them properly at our party. Some people have an incredible aura simply because they live by the rules of kindness, and their smile shines through their whole being. Soltan's music rocked the party till the early morning hours, and bedtime was just after 6:30am when the last three guests left. Towards the night's end, Troy and Torsten arrived with Yass, who was the cake's topping.
The series of family visits ended last Tuesday, and life is back to somewhat normality—or another version of abnormality, as some may question.

I have been so good during the sales. I have only one top and hairband from Paul Ka to report, which is unbelievable. The only way is not to walk into any store or use super control to change the habits (good or bad) of a lifetime—look and no buy.  
The new hot dude in my life is away visiting Russia, which is not a good sign! Haha.  But again, it is all in the name of fun and laughter. I decided to enjoy my singlehood to the last drop long ago and keep to my word... So far.  

How do I feel right now?  
Everything is excellent under the sun or moonlight, shining bright. Love all the way...
Funny, the music I am listening to says... I wanna go to astronaut school; I wanna be an astronaut. Most appropriate, somehow!