Lolly Popp Lolly Popp

Today I met Geraldine. The kids all call her Gerry!

"It's easier for the kids to remember."

Gerry must without a doubt be the happiest person I have seen at work... ever! She has been holding her job for 28 years and has loved every minute of it.

Also, I have never ... ever seen as many people and kids smile at the same person!

I came across Gerry very unexpectedly ... It was past 3.30pm when I walked up Northcote Road towards Wandsworth Common to where I had parked my bike. I had been around the area for over an hour, always on the lookout for something interesting. With a couple of fun shots "in the bag" I decided to call it a day.

Little did I know that as I was about to cross the road to get to my bike... there stood Gerry in the middle of the road. Big smile, chatting away to each and everyone she came in contact with.

And they kept coming, first from left and then from right. They all called her name and she knew every one by their name too, children as well as adults.

"See you Monday"

"Yes, see you Monday sweetheart!"

Witnessing this brings a big smile to my face too! Somewhat intrigued I walked over to Gerry. I wanted to know more. I had met people with Gerry's job before. However, so far I had always been on the other side of the coin. I was made to wait! Never assisted in such a kind, up beat manner.

So this was my chance.

"I love my job!"

"I can see that! You are amazing. I usually have to give way to buses but they stop for you ... and the driver even waves at you."

"The kids must love you too. To see a smiling face when they get out of school must be lovely."

I bet she can't wait for Monday morning to come along when she'll see the entire mob again. Twice a day.

"The kids are the same in the morning! We always have a laugh."

I wonder what weekends and school holidays must be like for Gerry?

"I go down to Bogner (Regis). I have a caravan there."

The 20 minutes or so of hard work are over. No more action to be had. I jump on my bike.

As for Gerry, she'll be on her way to Bogner soon too!

It's good to talk

Not feeling great ... but can't let my followers down .. can I ?! :) and what about my challenge? same applies to that!

The sun is out. Also I felt better after my treatment so I decided to take the car for a short drive to Fixation and see for myself what the issue with favourite lens is all about.

I ask to speak with the technician. He is still adamant after having fully stripped the lens that it has suffered a heavy impact and that the three elements have to be replaced.

How bizarre! But, hey, it's not about being right or being adamant myself that the lens has not suffered ill treatment... It's about making a decision whether it's worth having the repair done. Last thing I want is to be throwing good money after bad...

"The glass itself is still in excellent condition. Once I've repaired it, it should be working great. As for now, I wouldn't risk it because sooner or later you will start getting distorted images."

OK, time to bite the bullet after all! I give him the go ahead and am eager to get favourite lens back in pristine working order asap!

This still left me with the task of having to capture the shot of the day.

On the way back, still pondering about my lens ... I'm happy about the decision I made. I'm also glad that I made time to chat with the technician. I'm grateful he took the time to come and have the conversation with me. I trust that his 14 years of experience will be reflected in his ability to do a great job.

I had just been reminded of the importance of dialogue and respectful communication.

I stop at Balham and walk around, camera as always ready for action. I quickly sense that there too, all activity points towards communication and community.

The scene of the policeman taking to school kids just jumps out at me and I grab the shot.

I also like the woman on the right edge of frame looking straight at me. It all adds to the uncertainty and beauty of street photography.