“Consider yourself at home

Consider yourself one of the family

We’ve taken to you so strong

It’s clear we’re going to get along…”

I’ve heard this song from the musical, “Oliver,” playing a few times here at Paddington Arts. It feels like an applicable theme song to sum up the wonderful adventure I’ve had in London as part of the Paddington Arts team. As my time with Paddington Arts comes to an end, I have found myself reflecting on what I have gained through this experience. I feel very fortunate to have been surrounded by warm and welcoming people from the very first moment I arrived. Everyday has been a learning opportunity. I learned about this wonderful organization that has been alive for more than four decades through all the pieces and people that are part of its foundation. I also learned by being immersed in the environment. There is joy that exudes from each person who walks about the building. They truly want to be here! They want to be part of the community in a meaningful way. I feel very lucky to have experienced this type of positive and passionate energy that is not often found in workplaces. I’ve learned directly from the people here, not only about their lives but about how to act. The entire team here has always been friendly and helpful to me but also to everyone else! Each interaction I have witnessed has shown me the character of each individual. I have cherished getting to know them through their professional qualities and through their personalities too. 

I have learned so much from the experiences I’ve had pursuing stories for the Blog. Every single blog I created has dozens of memories attached to them. The hours that I have spent learning about these topics, having first-hand experience with them, and sharing them with the Paddington Arts audience have truly been a privilege. As you may notice in the stories I created, I followed a theme involving art in its many forms. I believe there can never be enough appreciation for all the arts and I highly encourage you to participate where you can. Since I have joined the team, I find myself paying more attention than I ever have before to the artists and their work throughout London. 

I will miss being part of the team. During my time here I have become attached to the building, the neighborhood, and all the people who are part of it. I’ll also miss the sound of dancing feet, the voices that carry through the halls, and the bits of music that brighten the day, whether that’s the upbeat tunes accompanying the lessons or the singing that vocalizes from the heart of staff members going about their day.

During my time at Paddington Arts I have been a temporary resident in London and I have fallen in love with this city! I will always value the opportunities I’ve had to go out and explore different pockets of this magical place. I have never been to a location that had so much to offer in ways of food, entertainment, and general tourism. I have not had a bored moment since I have arrived and I doubt very much I would, even if I was here for a year. I must also note that the people really say so much about a place. I tend to be a rather inquisitive person and will start a conversation with anyone. As I have gone out and explored, be it for a story or not, I have found that the people here on the whole are very friendly, interesting, and good-spirited. Getting to know the locals has been one of my favorite parts of being here. 

To everyone who has joined me on this journey, including readers, participants, and most importantly the team here at Paddington Arts, I would like to thank you very much for our time together and all the memories I will carry with me for years to come.