Facing it , not faking it

STOPPRESS : It's Friday and just as @Caitlinmoran promised  #helpiscoming . This is thanks to a new song by Crowded House and accompanying film produced by Caitlin and @petepaphides , introduced by Bendedict Cumberbatch supported by Save the Children. Please support . Additionally , @Theagilmore has also produced a new downloadable single track "Soon" on sale via Bandcamp.

It's fantastic that these talented artists are taking action to raise awareness and money. Let's support them . 

And so to the week....,

I had never heard of Litlington ,East Sussex, before we happened upon it last Saturday en route to Gayles Farm(NT) on the top of Seven Sisters. (Of which more later).

White anenomies at Litlington Tea Garden

And just beyond Litlington we enjoyed spying the White Horse ; I'm ashamed to say this was my first sighting. 

The purpose behind our excursion into the endlessly beautiful Sussex countryside was to join other National Trust (NT) supporters celebrating the acquisition of Gayles Farm with its stunning cliff top location and memories of the war when it had been the location for an airfield. And the day did not disappoint . 

Much dressing up in 40s costumes

A stunning view of Beachy head 

An untroubled fly past by a Spitfire

An army tent and more dressing up 

The coastal path 

Preserving this beautiful piece of coastline for enjoyment of walkers,nature and history lovers has got to be a great thing . Being a member of the NT is a real win win - you give a bit and get so much in return.

One of the joys of Sussex are the beautiful green treeleaf tunnels that I drive through to cross the county to visit my father . And this week in bright sunshine they were at their best as I gathered him up for a few days pampering with us by the sea. It's a wonder what a few good meals, dog walks and sound sleeps do for his spirit and demeanour. 

He also kindly cared for Merry the dog whilst I made a London visit on Monday. 

First stop was Cavendish Square , and I had time to walk there from Victoria. This was good exercise . It also allowed me to enjoy one of my favourite pieces of public art in London. 

Sculpture by Elizabeth Frink in Dover Street

After my meetings , I was heading for Blackfriars and the Mondrian . So I took the chance to walk along the Embankment and enjoy another favourite piece of public art. 

London Pride by Frank Dobson 

I was on my way to  @Damian_Barr 's Literary Salon.  No, I had not been to one before , and I was in slight trepidation and awe.  However, with such a fantastic location, good company and a world class line up of guests, all was set fair.

View of Blackfriars bridge from the Mondrian "Rumpus Room" 

Me on the balcony 

I was accompanied by my daughter's boyfriend and we had a fabulous evening of good food, nourishing readings and stimulating conversations. 

Damian Barr celebrates the 7th birthday of his literary salon

An eclectic gathering ion the Rumpus room - is that  Phillippa Perry and Natalie Haynes we espy? 

John Lahr reads from "Joy Rides" - profiles of people he admires

Caitlin Moran previews her next book "Moranifesto "

Caitlin Moran, John Lahr, JoJo Moyes and Damian Barr - the whole line-up

Back in Sussex , the Downs beckoned on Tuesday,  and so I took my father up to Devils Dyke . It was perfect weather for the clearest panoramic views of the sea and the countryside and a brisk rejuvenating walk. Interestingly dad had not been before and was mightily impressed.

The sea from the top of the Downs 

Merry looking out over the countryside 

We all enjoyed a bracing walk with fantastic timeless views . Merry was only sad not to be able to whizz off after rabbits , following their scents in an escapade down the escarpment. 

And later in the week I have returned to this walk with my very longstanding friend Linda , who came to visit , catch up and reminisce after many years of only sporadic, though warm, Chrismas card contact, whilst we prioritised work and family. 

Shades of Ravilious ? A bit too bright , I think! 

It's barely believable that it's 40 years since Linda and I first met , worked together and shared a council flat in Bethnal Green . At Linda's side I learned so much about how to practice my chosen profession, social work . She was a real role model and mentor and though just retired from full time work, she is still doing some sessions as a Reviewing Officer. She provides a great example of public service . What a lovely time we had nattering away and covering so many diverse topics. We moved  from literature to the fortunes of our children ; from travel to remembrances of colleagues and clients we had worked with ; through art, books,blogs, photography, gardening , radio 4 ,local government, world politics and so much more. 

From Martello Street,Hackney by Piers Ottey 

And on Thursday night we shared the moving , inspiring , challenging experience that was watching the sold out "Fake It 'Til You Make It" , a performance by Bryony Kimmings and Tim Grayburn at the Dome Studio in Brighton. Recently performed at Edinburgh Fringe to much acclaim and an award, the "show" addresses men and clinical depression. It's an intimate exploration of a real life love story between this couple and their approach to facing Tim's depression. I defy anyone not to be moved to tears by this brilliantly produced and poignant piece . If  It's  purpose was to entertain, educate and open up a taboo subject it most certainly achieved this . It will be on at the Soho Theatre soon- and is well worth seeing. 

@bryonykimmings and @TimGrayburn #FakeIt