Eric, Clapton

Ahhh. I've moved. And I think I'm really going to like living here.

I'm in an airy, light, old house in Clapton, in a room that's more than twice the size of the one I had in Vermin House. A nice high ceiling--and room for a chair! There wasn't even enough space in my old room to lie down on the floor to do my back stretches. It'll be a pleasure to stretch out in a room like this.

I bIked over past school today (maybe 30 minutes, which is also about how long it'd take by bus) and then came back and wandered around my new neighborhood, found the local pub (with a quirky name, something like The Crooked Billet) and a couple of little restaurants and cafes (in addition to the ever-present kebab shops), checked out the bus routes, etc. My housemates told me of a couple other pubs a few minutes away that overlook the canal. And I found Hackney Downs, a pleasant park just a few minutes away. I think I mentioned the large park at the end of the block, too. I've rearranged my new room and spent most of the morning unpacking. It's nice to have leisure time to do all this. Unlike last October, when I moved in and started classes all within about 48 hours. And also unlike last October, I didn't get egged on my way home the first night in my new place. Ah, Plaistow, I will not shed tears for you.

Another good sign: Last night not one but two housemates brought home some Haagen Dazs. Some housemates will come and go over the next few months, but nations represented include Australia, Guatemala by way of Mexico, Italy, Switzerland, and the US. At any given time there will be 4 to 7 people living here. We'll eventually settle down to 5. Six when Robin comes next May-July or -August.

My new address, in case anybody needs it:
22 Cleveleys Road
London E5 9JN