119. Am Back in London (August/September 2024)

[@deniseburnside]

Going back shows you how not only your life has changed, but how other people’s lives have changed. Nothing stays the same, as it isn’t meant to. They carry on. You carry on. Home is where you make it.

[@debbies2966]

Well said!

[@Sara-z7z]

Your love for Rusty is almost palpable. He will always be with you x

[@grumpy_poo]

Orange and white cats are special.....

[@JoanneWhite-yk2so]

There's nothing to stop you popping back to London every so often. Another beautifully put together video ❤😊

[@lesleywurwal8805]

That's what you've missed on the homestead, having company, people to chat to.

[@AnjiRoberts-c3g]

My neighbour died in February, he was from Treherbert originally, I so miss his voice so it is very comforting to hear you, especially how you say beautiful. Thank you.

[@emmafarr770]

It's a strange feeling when you go back to a place that you lived before. Sometimes it's Bitter sweet Many memories were made there. That will never be forgotten, but we move on to make New ones😊

[@maryansharm5296]

That music playing when you were on the allotment was so wistful, almost haunting. It made me so sad for Rusty. Also my own dear cat that I lost recently. I can’t seem to get over it. 4 months ago I too moved house. I haven’t settled after 38 years in my last house. All I keep thinking is, “I just want to go home”. Alone now my husband has gone, your videos are the one thing that give me cheer on “a depressed day”. I think I must get another cat from the rescue centre. A house isn’t a home without one is it? Thinking of you often Sean, God bless you my dear.

[@angelapitkin7097]

I hope you feel better soon

[@mamamoomin]

Whenever I have to pass through London, I always feel tense. It's a great relief when I'm back on the train and start to see green fields, (with london far behind me). I can breathe a sigh of relief.

[@shelaghrichardson1294]

It's true what they say,"The past is another country." Going back is never how you expected it would be and you feel a bit out of place, even. 🤔🌴🇦🇮

[@Onehundredonly]

All the noise, heat, stress and people of London gives me terrible anxiety.

[@1971gladys]

Me too!!! I hate London. I find it super intimidating xxx

[@grumpy_poo]

I had family in Istanbul..... Now there is noise and traffic for you....

[@sianfrance7597]

Love, love, love London!! I'm originally from the Welsh Valleys but lived in the capital for many years now!

[@PatriciadelValle-q8z]

Come to Lima and you will see what noise is...

[@treetop2729]

Thank you for letting us travel with you. Glad you did it as it probably got it out of your system. Enjoy the peace, quiet, rivers and mountains of Wales.

[@skeovkp48598]

I lived in London for a short while many years ago. There were "Visit Scotland" posters at the local tube station entrance with a beautiful view of a Scottish loch. I looked at it longingly on my way to work every morning. It made me yearn for mountains and space. I eventually found my mountains and space in a quiet corner of Cumbria, where I've lived for the last 40 years. I don't think I could handle all the busyness and noise of any city now.

[@RobinDS-m1g]

I fee like that anywhere round London - can I join you?! I should have made that move already - grew up in Yorkshire which was far calmer and more beautiful interpersed with some smaller busy cities of course, and nearrby Cumbria saw me hiking all over the place in the less touristy areas as well as the famous ones.

[@margaretalice6343]

London is so busy even at night which is natural for a capital city. My daughter lived in London for several years but moved back home to SE Northumberland cos here you can still enjoy the busy city of Newcastle close by but enjoy so many quieter secluded woodlands & beautiful coastlines

[@skeovkp48598]

@@margaretalice6343 And dark skies - I love being able to see the stars and the Milky Way, even the northern lights now and again. I believe Northumberland has dark skies too.

[@skeovkp48598]

@@RobinDS-m1g Yorkshire's beautiful. I love the Dales.

[@RobBrown1991]

Same here. Wasdale is my calm place, moved up this way when I was 24, never looked back.

[@ReneeinVirginia]

Great to see Kensey again! He's hanging in there. And the waitress saying "YOU!" Priceless. Heartbreaking to see so many places closing up. I'd stick with getting fresh plants for your allotment too. At least you're Christmas shopping is done!The busyness is nice at first but gets frustrating and it's nice to leave. 3-4 hours isn't too bad of a distance to pop over now and again. I find hotel rates are really good after New Years. Or as soon as warm enough for cats to survive alone at home. NOW, get back to the Rusty Homestead! I want to see an Apple tree go in!!! Good video!

[@martinsludds9241]

Thank you for sharing your journey. Very enjoyable video. I lived in London when I was young but, although it is nice to visit, the noise, lack of space and privacy, all those people are too much now in my 60's. You made a great decision moving to Wales with a gentler pace of life but London is just a train ride away for a visit.

[@joannemorrall3332]

Hi Sean, I rarely comment on your vlogs if at all really but i do watch all of them and have done so for some time. I really enjoyed this "Going back" vlog. How lovely to go back and meet up with your past friends and local area. Gosh i bet that strange but in a comforting way. I hope you enjoyed your time back in London and it did the trick. I bet its lovely being back "Home" now in Wales? Great video.

[@kimmberlie573]

Glad you went to London to see what your heart wants. City and country both have amazing possibilities. Sometimes we never figure out where we belong. Life is what you make it. Enjoy the journey.

[@kath804]

Great video Sean. I moved away from my home of 22 years to more rural 3 years ago and I am deeply unhappy. I hope you resolve your doubts as I wouldn’t wish how I feel on you.

[@Hayley-kf3ux]

Enjoyed watching this video as my sister lives in Sydenham, I've visited her a couple of times since she moved there (she does a gardening course and tends to her long, wildish garden) and I live & work in the Valleys so interesting seeing the contrasts. I prefer Wales as it's quieter, cheaper & home!

[@helengibson8196]

I felt relieved when you arrived back home. I'm glad you had this experience and I hope it helps you to settle a bit more 🌷

[@kateyoung2913]

I enjoy going to London to see shows and gigs and stay over but it’s always nice to come home 🥰

[@carlg9665]

Thank you Sean for taking us along on this journey of reflection. It was strange to find myself experiencing memories of your past videos of the old Rusty allotment coming back to me. I trust it has settled your thoughts and now time to make new memories. All the best with your future plans for the homestead. Iechyd da!

[@BionicRasta]

It's nice to think that Rusty came out to greet you at the allotment & was with you in spirit by your side at the old plot next to where he is buried.

[@janerobinson5944]

Your home in London was in a nice area. Having a green park close by is much better than being in the cement city! The great thing is you can live in Wales and take a very nice train ride to London and back in a hurry!

[@mandyshea7874]

Hi Sean, really enjoyed your video today and how you have taken time to pay your respects to Rusty , bless him 😊. I started watching your videos shortly before Rusty passed away and felt so sad for you that you lost this little cat, which had been a regular addition to your life. As much as it must be exciting to be back in London and catch up with friends, I think your life in Wales is a better one for you. I absolutely love your videos . Best wishes to you😊

[@angelas6683]

Sean, one of the reasons I started watching your channel was because I, also, returned to my hometown in the US...12 years ago, after 28 years away. So interesting we've experienced some of the same things such as family members who've passed, buildings/businesses that are gone or changed, weather differences, etc. And I'm making a quick 2 day trip next week to visit friends in my previous city. LOL We are living parallel lives! So happy you had a safe, enjoyable journey!

[@cherylprice1790]

I loved this video Sean, it's nice to go to see the ciry on a trip , it invigorates you by going and seeing hustle and bustle and when you get home to Wales you'll be full of beans. I used to enjoy London day trips prior to the Pandemic and it was so nice see it again. When you're home again the green valleys will stun you with rheir beauty

[@caroleunderwood3321]

That was fun, thanks for taking us along

[@theharringtons2010]

I lived in London for a long time before moving back to the valleys of Wales..I was in London last weekend..it takes some getting used to living a quiet life in Wales..

[@ggwildlife]

Great video Sean loved it all, was great to see you back in my home city, and seeing your old haunts again especially the allotments.

[@MrRocksoil]

Good plan ,to briefly visit London,it will re focus you ,on your ,,wales plan,,always worthwhile,visiting old haunts, most years,since my youth, i'm 75 now,I've visited Salisbury wilts,,scene of my magical childhood,all those years ago.,oh such happy days.i was so luck,in the greater scheme of things.good luck Sean.

[@Jay-Leigh]

It felt nice to be back in the village with you Sean. Think London is great to visit but, you seem more at home in the valley. Thank you for another beautiful presentation ❤J&J

[@rowenaazimi9040]

I was born in Camden and grew up in London. I moved to Scotland 10 years ago, and i love that feeling when I go back to London to visit family and breathe in that London air. The poor cats will not be happy with you leaving again 😂

[@deborahellis8644]

I live east London . Lots of people have moved away. At first they regularly return back to the noise & busyness that they are accustomed to. It seems to take at least a year or so to adjust, but most prefer their slower lifestyle eventually. I am always on rightmove looking at different areas to move to. Wales is somewhere I consider as I have a lot of family Port Talbot way. The thought of moving really scares me at the same time. I think the way you’re feeling is quite common .

[@dorothywilliams9967]

I was born in London 81yrs ago..been living in Mid Wales for over 40yrs....would never ever wish to go back to the chaos...but that's just my thoughts..i have my happy memories of my younger days in London and that us all I need...Wales is now my home and living a peaceful life by the sea with family & friendly people makes me happy...your videos Sean are a great source of comfort and well being, what more do I need.

[@ballysillanallotment-man5793]

Its good to look back but more important to look forward onwards and upwards Sean looking forward to seeing the small holding taking shape and producing next year

[@diannevenner-kc6gu]

Hi Sean-As a teacher of mine once said many moons ago ''Onwards Forever Onwards my lovelies''. ( He was a chemistry teacher Amateur Dramatics by night lol!. 😅) .. But its so true. You move on for a reason. Its never the same going back...

[@debradevine3949]

What a wonderful journey and thank you for taking us with you. It was lovely to see your other plots and looking forward to seeing what you will do on your new one. Great to see London as it fast been two years since I visited there. Loved all the train rides and the great feeling smile on your face in being home!:❤❤❤

[@ohmeowzer1]

Wonderful video thank you

[@chrisrey572]

What a nice visit to your previous plots and eateries. There is a definite difference in anxiety from big city to the slow living where you are now. I think you need a garden club at your plot and maybe set up classes on what you know about gardening. It is always nice to have company while your gardening once in a while. I was getting anxiety watching you hurry to all your trains. Thank you for taking us along.

[@colleenmckinlay2916]

Thank you for sharing your trip back to London. So many memories . Enjoyed seeing your allotments and a little teary as you had a quiet time thinking about dear Rusty. Nice to visit but always nicer to come home to the peace, quietness and beauty of your valley. Glad you had a chance to catch up with friends. ❤👍🏻

[@Juls27989]

So glad you done this journey, I think you needed to do this, hopefully now it will help you settle a lot better back here in beautiful Wales. Lovely video, thank you. 🚅🚉🚕🍎💐

[@dianeirvine1384]

Loved that trip. Thank you so much. Great seeing the places you used to walk to. Sad to say that a lot of people having to close up nice little shops. Sign of the times I think. It seems to be world over. From what I understand.

[@garth8979]

My god London looks more like an Ants nest, in the middle of Delhi. I haven't been for 30 years and will never be going again. How anyone can yearn for that is beyond me. I thought we were overcrowded here in North Wales, but damn... London is unparalleled! 😱

[@tinastone7368]

Oh my, the tube gave me such anxiety. I’m so grateful I don’t have to endure that anymore 🤦‍♀️. My son had a 13th floor flat in Sutton and you could see a lot of London from his front room window. I remember the Shard in particular. So pleased he’s moved to Cornwall now with his family. As I have never been a lover of lifts it used to crease me climbing the stairs to his apartment 🥴

[@JanetHumberstone]

It’s to noise you will be better stopping where you are enjoy what you have got❤

[@YllaStar95970]

🍏 l inherited two apple trees in my garden, one starts in May and ends in August, the other starts in August and ends in November. It's Apple Central here for 6 months of the year.🍎

[@seanjamescameron]

🍎

[@turbostream7925]

I started off watching this vid at home in Birmingham. I had to pause it as I was preparing a long car journey. I am now watching the remaining section in Wales, Pembrokeshire no less. Nice for you to go back to that there London for a visit.

[@angelalewis6706]

That was a nice video Sean. Home sweet home. Rusty would be happy knowing you'd come to visit him. Lovely that. Xxx

[@floriebrown2089]

I did enjoy watching your trip to London and the allotments. I have always found London too busy although your amongst lot of people there's that empty feeling. thanks for the video.

[@shirleystyrka9529]

Great video. Sydenham looks quite village like with a good community spirit. People know you there. Nice to have people nearby that you can call on if needed. Have to think about getting older you don’t want to be isolated then. Yes central London and the tubes are busy but, it isn’t all like that. So many free things to do, I went to the sky garden in London today, had to book but completely free. Then had lunch near St Paul’s with close friends. London every time ❤

[@Christine-il8nm]

Hi sean lovely trip catching up with old friends and seeing all your old haunts..hope you feel better now and scratched that itch..realy enjoyed going along with you..

[@duringthemeanwhilst]

one of my most fondest memories of the tube was sitting opposite the very lovely Samantha Beckinsale at the time London's Burning was a hit TV show 🙂. I bet if you ask, it's one of her's too…. maybe! the card shop folded - brilliant!! not for the shop, but the pun!

[@christinemabbett4862]

We moved to Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire back in 2017. Wales seemed to wrapped itself around us as we came off the bridge. If you don’t get that feeling then you are doubting your move. Let Wales nurture you. The first time I walked around Kidwelly along the river walk I felt as though I was in heaven. The castle appearing through the morning mist greeting me for the first time. A very special place indeed.

[@dereknash3638]

I love London especially central London where I used to visit everyday for work, even Victoria where we use to have an office opposite Victoria coach station. I last visited London for a photo walk along the embankment from Tower Bridge to Leicester Square in 2014 and then again in 2018 for our daughter’s accountancy award ceremony. I also had to visit the East End of London nearly a year ago for my eldest brother’s funeral and it was like visiting a different country. I was brought up in a part of Essex which is now regarded since 1965 as part of London.

[@susiespearing6165]

It's easy enough to wash the roots off before planting but as always your choice 🙂

[@nigelslack-x5v]

Loved watching this episode ❤

[@MoniqueRenee70]

Lived in a city and lived rural. Rural was not good. Lacked jobs, lacked diversity, and lacked activities for my kid. Not to mention choice of doctors and if needed a major surgery, not gonna happen there. So back to city and don't regret it. Got a hospital right down the street, got many restaurants to choose from, lots of jobs, and shopping malls. I like solitude as I have aged. So just don't do the crowds. No problem. I got gardens and made some ponds. So I get my flowers and veggies right in yard. We are all just different. My parents prefer rural in their retirement. Some can adjust city to rural, some don't. I live by a busy school. Love watching the kids walk by and the school buses I still get a kick out of seeing, Reminds me of my childhood riding in one. You dont have to be busy in a city, can avoid the crowds, and the noise is not constant. Well at least in my city. Just want you to be happy wherever you choose to live Sean.

[@jackiepark4673]

Yes you truly are a city dweller,to live in the deep countryside you need to truly spiritually connected to the animals ,plants,trees,mountains,forests ,waterfalls streams and it goes on and on an endless pleasure of joy and freedom, 😊

[@janicepym5158]

Maybe it’s because I’m a Londoner..that I love London Town..🎹🎹🎹…….but I couldn’t go back there to live! Just couldn’t hack that pace….it’s Suffolk for me these days!

[@diowen2725]

Nice

[@jacquelinekabugo-raderson1878]

​@diowen2725 Suffolk is lovely! Years ago I visited Stowmarket often as my hubby worked there for a while. Lovely friendly people 🎉❤

[@rglp4179]

Oh wow Sean you went home, never thought I'd miss Sydenham 😮😅 hope you had a lovely time, very envious 😍

[@charannefenn8780]

Hi sean , i have been to London many times but always glad to get home . Glad you had a nice time 😊

[@susangrindle7426]

It doesn't take long for things to change when you leave a place. Glad you had chance to catch up with your friends and visit old haunts. First thing i noticed was the noise but no plice sirens for a change 😂. Could almost see Rusty moseying down the path, glad you didn't show his catflap in your old shed(if its still there) as that would have set me going 😊😊 . I would have been glad to get back to the peace and quiet, maybe have visits to London every few months for a catch up. P.S. i wouldn't have minded you showing everybody what you've got me for Xmas 😂😂😂😂😂

[@susangrindle7426]

Police I've done it again 😂

[@seanjamescameron]

Yes the flap was still there along with his bed still in the little shed with his toys. I just left them there for any other cats walking past.

[@susangrindle7426]

@@seanjamescameron awe Sean good job I've a tissue under my pillow bless x

[@diannevenner-kc6gu]

​@@seanjamescameronaah that's a lovely gesture 🙌 x

[@oneviewcornwall8200]

​@@seanjamescameron😺😿😺🧡💛

[@jillychandler]

What a long trip you took. Thank goodness you are back home now, as home is were the heart is, and your two beautiful cats. xxx

[@carolinemartin6196]

Lovely to around Sydenham again my friend lived there

[@MarleneCurrie-j5e]

That was a lovely surprise enjoyed every minute of it, even the sad part when you mention old Rusty, certainly a trip down memory lane. Hope it has helped you to get whatever was bothering you out of your system. Onwards and upwards now Sean.

[@rhianevans7189]

Hi Sean I am enjoying this video of pastures ago My grandparents lived in the country and my Nan had a big 4 bed detached house with a big garden and my grandmother used to plant all the vegetables herself but the garden was huge. Always fresh vegetables for meals and had pigs and chickens andbTurkeys at Xmas period . I went down there a few years ago and it is like memory lane. I loved it there as a kid we went everywhere as youngster. All the best and have a break from Wales. See you in the next one x

[@lorellstoneman74]

Thanks for the tour, of the big city, Sean. I was thinking about the bay leaf trees you talked about...I would of been tempted to fill a pocket full. Glad you got the apples off your tree. I hope you found what you were looking for. I feel fall in the air here...on the Oregon coast, although today was warm 85° f. I bought seeds that will be ready in 60 days. Beets, cabbage bok choy, bunching onions, and swiss chard..We should have enough sun for them to make it.. a little and often....

[@leighwiseman8389]

Hi Sean, I so enjoyed this video, felt I was there with you. Such beautiful allotments away from the hussle and bustle. Sad the cafe closed. Must of been lovely to go back and catch up, but I think Wales is so much calmer and absolutely beautiful. Thank you Sean. Look after yourself 😊

[@VileTraveller]

Another reason to buy new trees from a local nursery is they'll be adapted to the Welsh climate, and take off much faster. Mine are due for their first harvest next year, even these two years I've been picking off lots of fruit to keep the strength going into the trees.

[@SuzanneU]

It feels weird going back - I find it's a cognitive dissonance between never having been away and never having been there before!

[@Hermit1903]

Having lived in the Highlands for 25 years...just the endless noise, beeping, doors opening and closing, announcements etc and busyness of people made me instantly claustrophobic with this video.

[@mingbop]

Very interesting to see all the different trains and the Underground - that looks scary. Very claustrophobic! Thank you for filming it. Sometimes we just need a wee change of air to settle us down :)

[@mrsplumbridge4888]

Good idea to go back I hope it's helped to settle your mind a bit now 😊 x

[@donnasymons1872]

Such enjoyable filming, you're an expert Sean. When I've gone backwards in time to past habitats, it feels like an old film I once watched, total detachment.

[@nancysmith-baker1813]

Thankyou for the memory tour . The gardens are splendid. We dont have any thing like that in salt lake .of they have whats called a community garden but it more for learning than growing ypur own food . I am your age , its hard to see old places you use to enjoy gone . I see that all the time in salt lake city 🏙️🌆 Utah . Take care 🍄🍁🍂🌼🌻😺🏵️💮🌸🌷🥀🌺🌹

[@witchy8578]

I so enjoyed this video from start to finish Sean, I really felt i was there with you on your journey to and from London. It's true that London has much to offer, it's a fantastic place to visit and do things, all the excitement and hustle and bustle of a big City. However, I think I'd much prefer living in a beautiful cosy Welsh valley with peace and nature all around me! Thanks for sharing 😊

[@wormfriend5625]

Really enjoyed this video thank you.

[@ColinOBear]

I moved to London when I was 17 and left when I was 28, I've lived away from London for 30 years now, but would be back in a shot if I could afford it. I have had some amazing times since I left, but do miss the energy of the city.

[@christinaplaisted9563]

Morning glad you did the trip ,oh a d thanks to you I now know I can get a train from Swindon to carmarthen with out changing haven't been on a train since 2011 my son took me to Leeds so he sorted everything out ,but he lives in Haverfordwest so would do the trip on my own in joy your cup of tea ❤❤

[@marje8249]

Lovely allotments 🍃😊 🍃 the tube however looks stressful 😥

[@sharontaylor2309]

Great video. I breathed a sigh of relief when you got back to Wales 😂

[@juliawigger9796]

I find its best not to revisit places you lived. Bitter sweet experience

[@veronicacares2077]

In 2024, I returned to an area I moved away from in 1987. Great Falls, Montana. So much had changed it is not a quaint small town anymore. Kinda depressing. I'm really glad I left that area in 1987. I now live in rural northern Idaho and will never leave.

[@historybarf]

I’ll be back in London next March.

[@colga100]

I enjoyed the London trip with you Sean as I had my breakfast. Now you have me wondering how you are going to develop the social element into the homestead… love the suspense..

[@MarianStevens-dv6bz]

Great video Sean. Looking forward to you developing a more social side to The Rusty Homestead which is so beautiful even now.😊

[@janegiles7458]

The vegetables on display were so good and I would love to find veg like that to cook thanks for the journey soo enjoyed it thanks ❤

[@Jane_and_Meg]

Really enjoyed watching this Sean! I've seen a lot of your London life on your Second Channel but it was great to see all your old haunts in one video. I must admit having been to London myself, I absolutely hate the tube trains and all the hussle and the bussel! I completely get why you did it though sometimes you have to go back to a place just to make sure... I did that once and whilst it was nice I felt like I no longer belonged there and glad I made the move. My Late Dad was born in London and always was wistful about the Bangers and Mash he used to have in a cafe. He had so many fond memories. Take care.

[@ceahorse56]

Going back sometimes gives you closure on that chapter of your life. Older I get the less drama I want in my life!

[@ukaly1]

Oh my goodness, you definitely need to know what you're doing on that train system! I'm sure you enjoyed it, but nice to be back in the peaceful Welsh valley.

[@sunnysyl7]

That was great , love traveling 🧳

[@Angel-002]

What an interesting & varied video. It must have been bitter sweet going back & with mixed emotions. I wouldn't cope with living in a city & it being so busy, but that is why we are all different. I half expected Gerry Refferty to be played over the footage of Baker Street😂😂 Thanks for taking us & showing us around your old haunts. I bet the cats were pleased to see you back home.....they probably acted aloof, but derp down they would be pleased to see you😄

[@suzieque9934]

Loved going on this journey sean even though i cried remembering rusty on the allotment 😢❤

[@susangrindle7426]

I had a lump in my throat and thought i was doing well for once . Then i read Sean's reply to me and that did it. Like your user name that was my nick name when i was little 😊

[@suzieque9934]

@@susangrindle7426 was my nickname as a child too ❤️❤️

[@sadiecantle5370]

Hi Sean hope you are well glad you enjoyed you trip to London but as they say it’s nice to be home take care luv Sadie xx❤

[@laytonjones2093]

I enjoyed that Sean chware teg

[@chrisgosling5954]

Interesting trip - haven't had a solo day out in London for a long time, it's only about 90 minutes away, maybe I should do it again!

[@raewhittakerTea_pot]

That makes a change!

[@raymondvizard1605]

If it's to hot or you start to fill faint in the heat Old navy tipe Order some water with ice cubes in a bowl. Place your finger tips in the ice water This will bring your core temperature down by 2 degrees Try it at home after a hot day & chill out

[@carolpageler8124]

The allotment plot area is huge! ,

[@maureenlowther7621]

It’s nice to go back then you appreciate what you have got. Thanks for sharing.❤️❤️

[@barbdurban900]

I used to live in Sydenham.!

[@gailgulliver8970]

Thank you Sean that was a lovely visit nice to go but nice to get back .If I go to a town or city its makes me appreciate where I live when you got off the train in Wales it was fresh air you felt .lol..xx