Dancing Queen

Once again the day dawned sunny and warm.

A nice gentle start to the day. As we left the station last night Jo pointed out a guided walk podcast about the local area. While Janet and Tracy headed to the local farmers market I had a crack at the walk which went from Balham to Tooting Bec station and return. Distance covered was only about a mile and a half but really interesting local history. For instance the IRA had exploded a bomb just around the corner, the area has the largest apartment building in the UK (676 apartments) built in the 1930's, there is a huge Polish community and assocaited churches and clubs, and the worlds largest sewing machine museum is here. All stuff I have walked past for the last couple of weeks and not noticed.

The last stop was back at Balham station and covers the loss of life when the station was bombed during the 2nd world war blitz and 66 people were killed while sheltering in the station. Again really interesting to hear from people there and be standing looking at the

memorial.

Next we met up with Mike and Jo and their friend, Magda. We headed off to Broadway Market for a poke about and lunch. Great food options and lots of quirky stalls. The highlight for lunch was the haggis toasted sandwiches.

After lunch sitting in the park watching people we got ourselves into Southbank Centre and the ABBA - Super Trouper exhibition. Another great experience. Small group of 16 moving through ABBA's history including the Eurovision win, their actual recording studio where Jo put down a great version of Dancing Queen, and finishing with ‘The Winner Takes It All’ as the band broke up. Bought back some great memories and Janet hasn't stopped smiling yet.

We adjourned to the terrace at Southbank overlooking the Thames and sat in the sun with a jug of Pimm's. Very English and also most refreshing.

Then it was back to the flat for the farmers market dinner and a couple of wines. Viber calls to Kirsten and David followed and not much sense was spoken. Late to bed but everybody happy.