Smiles better

On the day: 
25/01/2013 

On the way: 
Curled up in her seat, she'd be looking out the window if her head weren't bent forward, if her eyes were open. It gives a good view of the top of her black and blue striped beanie, which is teamed with a purple fleece, an olive green weather jacket obscuring the moonbag at her waist, khaki green bobbly trousers, tan socks with red polka dots and lace-up brown leather shoes. 
Curled up like a drunk on the last train after a heavy session in the City, only it's the morning train and she's sober, just sleepy. 
And when she raises her head its with a scowl, with concerns behind ochre eyes. And when she's not chewing on nothing, her mouth is set stern. Until she turns her head towards me and smiles, filling her face with with warmth and lighting up her ochre eyes. 
Towards me, but not at me. No, her smile is for the foreigner on to my left, the lady who has not learned the London way - to drop your head, lower your gaze and keep your distance. 
She's smiling back at my Mum. 

On the pod: 
Bring It On - Hard Fi 

On the front page: 
'20 yrs left' to halt the superbug apocalypse (Metro)