London Life - it ain't so bad ...

My general take on life is that happiness is not having what you want, but wanting what you have.

Although that doesn't mean that:

• you shouldn't recognise negative aspects and strive to change them
• you shouldn't be on the lookout for ways to improve the quality of your life
• you shouldn't dream

But it follows that while we would love to live another way - as part of a real community as opposed to being forced to live as a nuclear family in a council flat - and out of London, away from the noise, pollution, crime and grime - there are still plenty of positive aspects to focus on.

Here we are, it's the holidays, the sun is shining - just look at what's available a short walk from home.

There's Peckham Rye, with its history going back to Boadecia (or Boudicca as she seems to be known these days).

Or Dulwich Park created in 1890 with its lake, cafe and sporting facilities.

Or the Horniman Museum with its new aquarium and mega £££ refit.

Then there's the Horniman Gardens with the nature trail, animals and glorious views right across London.

We also went to Dulwich and Sydenham Woods - the last vestiges of the Great North Woods that used to cover the whole of SE England.

A short drive took us to Battersea Park a couple of days ago, where we gazed over the Thames and romped with Meloney and her family.

Another slightly longer drive took us to Godstone Farm where we played all day in sandpits, castles and with various children and animals.

And today I met the writers' group for the coffee caucus.

Pretty good, eh?
Life - it's what you make of it.