The hot weather continues with the forecasts suggesting more of the same still to come. I have been going out each day for a walk and to sit in one of the neighbouring public gardens. I take a book with me but quite often there there is activity going on around me – both animal and human – so that I never actually open my book.

Gravé dans le Sable
Michel Bussi

My current read is Gravé dans le Sable by Michel Bussi, known for his intricately structured mystery stories. Gravé dans le Sable is the first novel he wrote though it was not published until after some of his later works had been published and his reputation was assured.

A visitor

Today I have come to Myddelton Square Garden. This small creature came to join me though only briefly.

“My friends” the pigeons

The pigeons (Tigger calls them “my friends”) also came to take a look at me but as I didn’t have any food to share, they soon went about their business.

A handsome couple

I photographed this pair of pigeons, obviously a couple. Pigeons mate for life and a couple seems to lead their lives together, for example both sharing in feeding their young. If you want to know more about these interesting birds, a good place to start is Steve Harris’s article Feral pigeon: flying rat or urban hero?

Myddelton Square Garden

The sky is full of clouds this afternoon, allowing the sun to shine only intermittently. It is cooler as a result and the conditions are quite pleasant, enhanced by a slight breeze.

Gallipoli

In the evening, I met Tigger off the bus in Upper Street at the stop for one of our favourite eateries, Gallipoli. (The photo is spoilt by all the parked vehicles obscuring the view. I would like to see a more areas made pedestrian-only and lazy car owners shut out.)

Open to the sky
Photo by Tigger

We were pleased to be given a table in the area with the ceiling rolled back so that it was almost like being outside.

Walls covered with pictures

It is a feature of this restaurant that the walks are covered with pictures, mirrors and display items.

Our meal
Photo by Tigger

Tugger had borek (foreground) and I had falafel. I of course had Turkish tea and Tigger had ayran.

Aboard the 30

Afterwards, we crossed the road to the bus stop in front of St Mary’s Church and caught a number 30 bus back to the Angel. At home, we relaxed in front of our electric fans.

What is it I often say on Friday evening? Oh yes: the weekend starts here!