Saturday, 10 November 2012

Monday, November 5/2012

Plan to go to the Saatchi Gallery for a photography exhibit but when we arrive the gallery is closed for a private event of some description. so plan B - the serendipitous takes over. We notice an advertisement for an exhibit at the Science Museum - on the work of Dr Alan Turing. Turing was responsible for much of the breaking of the wartime Enigma code. there are three of the original Enigma machines on display, as well as the Pilot Ace computer, for which Turing wrote the specs in 1945. The computer was completed in 1950 and is massive - about ten feet by four, with dozens of little light up circuit lamps - and probably less computing power than the mini tablet in my handbag. Turing was a pioneer in the world of computers but came to a sad end, committing suicide after legally imposed efforts to change his sexuality by female hormone treatment intended to reduce libido and reverse homosexuality. A sad waste of a great mind.

Guy Fawkes Day. Most fireworks seem to have been on the weekend. there are some parks with displays tonight but we don't go. We do go to the Indian Veg for dinner though. It's a quirky little restaurant in Chapel Market near Angel tube station. An amazing little place that's always busy, clearly attracts regulars, and can always squeeze in a couple of extra people. Open seven days a week from noon until 11:30, it serves a vegan buffet for  £4.95, always with delicious hot dishes, salads, rice, dhal and side bits, like chapatis and balti mix. They don't have a licence, but are happy to have you bring your own wine or even a tin of lager if  you prefer, available from a supermarket round the corner. Delicious.