Image of the week… As the shrill laughter

22nd November 2024

As the shrill laughter of sugar-fueled toddlers echoed in the background, Evie and I climbed the vines in search of some P&Q. At nearly 11, her intellect continues to amaze me—she’s always been a sharp thinker. Evie and Raff are my fave cousins. I call myself their aunt because it feels more fitting, the truth is, their mum was always my cool aunt.
Auntie Vicki used to take us to Hamleys, promising any toy we desired. I would watch her in awe as she sat cross-legged, chain smoking Silk Cuts while playing chess with my dad—red wine in hand, frowning in concentration at the board.

In my teens, I eagerly anticipated her infamous Notting Hill Carnival parties. Her friends, West London socialites, would gather on the rooftop as the floats passed by, and we would wave, dancing with carefree joy.

Taking on this new role with a few youngsters reminds me of all the wonderful times I had as a child and the many people who brought joy, adventure, comfort, and inspiration into my life. I feel incredibly fortunate. I hope Evie and I continue to enjoy our little photo shoots and, in years to come, look back on these moments with as much love for me as I have for her mum.