lions and tigers

photo credits to the papa-razzi, whose camera and skillz makes me not bother with my own. also, don't you wonder about these stately homes? like what if one doesn't want to be a marquis but it's a birthright that's forced upon oneself? what if one preferred anonymity, and say, being a plumber instead of the local aristo? then what happens? joke that these homes are so expensive to maintain that they often need to attract and be open to public (hence 'lions and tigers') to stay afloat. but the grounds are beautiful, period furniture to die for. been thinking about heritage and legacy lately, especially when V was talking about going into practice with the aim of taking over his father's firm. there's something noble about that, about shelving personal ambition to do what's expected, to be dutiful in a sense. yet couldn't help but wonder if that would be the best use of his talent and skill. it's a happy position to be in, how many people have a family business to take over? and it's a champagne problem, to say the least. but hear me out, what if the path one wants to follow isn't the tried and tested one? what if there's no precedent? does one carve their own or take up the mantle placed on them with a heavy heart. life's too sort to please other people, even if they're family.

it's been a good few days of quietness and contemplation, some much needed peace from the hustle bustle that is summer in london. have tried my best to opt out, to say no, to be protective of time and down time. enjoying pottering around the flat, tidying, kicking back and reading to my heart's content. appreciate it's for a season, these lovely long empty days will not be forever, and to slow down and be mindful, finding joy in the mundane.