I am home. I made it back safely and without any flight delays/cancellations/or landing in the wrong city. Whew!
I love being home. Daisy sticks to my side and I can sleep whenever, eat wherever, and drive. I've missed driving so much. Today I drove around blasting MJ and dancing in my car. So, if you see a white volkswagen and the driver is dancing... well, its probably me. I'm that idiot. :) The hot shower is fantastic. I finally shaved my legs after 3 months. Yea, it felt great. Who wants to snuggle now??
I do miss London. There was always something to do and never a dull moment. What I miss is that sense of being in such a large community. There is just such easy accessibility to these amazing spots that I'm afraid I won't see for a few years. I also miss all of those friends I made. It was such a comfort being able to just hop on the Tube and meet up. Those were some amazing days I had. 3 amazing months.
I'm ready to see my friends here and again see my friends at UPS. I miss everyone so much! Oh my goodness.
I've been falling asleep at about 9:00 pm every night since being home. Its like my carriage turns back in to a pumpkin at that time. I can't keep my eyes open and sleep is just consuming. Its currently 15 minutes until that magical time and my eyelids are getting heavy.
I'm going to watch The Hangover and try and stay awake a little sooner. Tomorrow I am going to go The Dallas Women's Foundation to visit all of my favorite ladies. I can't wait! I've missed all those amazing women.
Alright, time for a movie and some sleep.
Love,
Kaitlin.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
pre-departure
Hello all whoever reads this,
So, for some reason finals week tends to be a bad time for me. This is the second finals week where someone from my past has died. Last semester my ex's brother died and this semester a friend from high school passed away after his battle with leukemia. I hate cancer. I hate leukemia. End of story. Jason will be in my thoughts and I hope he passed away loving life.
On a lighter note... I discovered the song that I am hoping to choreograph to next semester.
I already have ideas for costumes and may have started choreographing... When it happens, it happens. I miss dancing so much. I feel like a part of my soul is ripped out when I don't have access to a dance studio. That dance floor becomes a part of my heart and completes me. Its that feeling of feet on the hard wood floor that is calming. The mirrors reflecting my image back at me provide a sense of relief, you're here and you're real.
We went to a club (On Anon) this past weekend. It was a ton of fun. I got sweaty and danced a lot and enjoyed myself until 3 in the morning. We had to live up our last weekend here... duh!
For finals, I only have one more left tomorrow and then we're having pizza and going to see Bright Star and then I'm pretty positive most of us are going out for a few last drinks in London.
Friday I will spend most of the day packing and just getting ready to leave and then Saturday morning I will head off to the airport around 10 am and arrive in Dallas at 9:05 pm.
I am excited to leave, but I am also bummed at the same time. London has begun to feel like home and I feel like it is a city that I can feel comfortable in and not feel like so much of an outsider. But I really cannot wait to be back in Dallas and then again I can't wait to be back in Tacoma. Both of those places fill my heart with so much happiness its difficult to explain. The reason for my excitement to leave is mostly some of the people on my program. They drive me absolutely bonkers. I feel like I could spend so much more time here in London. I could discover so many treasures and really understand this magnificent city. I would also want a companion. One of my bestests or a family member.
My mom is making chicken noodle soup for my first dinner back at home. Just... Perfect. So perfect.
I can't wait to sleep for a few days. I haven't been sleeping well here. My anxiety is out the roof and I want to be snuggling with Daisy instead of pink blankets.
Only 2 whole days left in London and then I will be home. I really hope that people reading this don't think that I hate London or anything. I've had the time of my life. I have really enjoyed every minute and will truly miss this city. I will miss waiting for the tube, walking every where, the accents, the fascinating people, the parks, the museums, the cider, and pretty much so much about this city. I will also miss the friends that I have made on the program. There are a few that I am afraid distance will keep us apart. I truly sincerely hope that does not happen. Facebook and Skype will help make the U.S. feel like a smaller country.
Also, watch Glee. BEST. SHOW. EVER. <3
Alright, off to bed. LAST exam tomorrow! Also, this doesn't feel like a proper finals week. I haven't stayed up until 5:30 am writing in the SUB. Weird.
Cheers,
Kaitlin.
So, for some reason finals week tends to be a bad time for me. This is the second finals week where someone from my past has died. Last semester my ex's brother died and this semester a friend from high school passed away after his battle with leukemia. I hate cancer. I hate leukemia. End of story. Jason will be in my thoughts and I hope he passed away loving life.
On a lighter note... I discovered the song that I am hoping to choreograph to next semester.
I already have ideas for costumes and may have started choreographing... When it happens, it happens. I miss dancing so much. I feel like a part of my soul is ripped out when I don't have access to a dance studio. That dance floor becomes a part of my heart and completes me. Its that feeling of feet on the hard wood floor that is calming. The mirrors reflecting my image back at me provide a sense of relief, you're here and you're real.
We went to a club (On Anon) this past weekend. It was a ton of fun. I got sweaty and danced a lot and enjoyed myself until 3 in the morning. We had to live up our last weekend here... duh!
For finals, I only have one more left tomorrow and then we're having pizza and going to see Bright Star and then I'm pretty positive most of us are going out for a few last drinks in London.
Friday I will spend most of the day packing and just getting ready to leave and then Saturday morning I will head off to the airport around 10 am and arrive in Dallas at 9:05 pm.
I am excited to leave, but I am also bummed at the same time. London has begun to feel like home and I feel like it is a city that I can feel comfortable in and not feel like so much of an outsider. But I really cannot wait to be back in Dallas and then again I can't wait to be back in Tacoma. Both of those places fill my heart with so much happiness its difficult to explain. The reason for my excitement to leave is mostly some of the people on my program. They drive me absolutely bonkers. I feel like I could spend so much more time here in London. I could discover so many treasures and really understand this magnificent city. I would also want a companion. One of my bestests or a family member.
My mom is making chicken noodle soup for my first dinner back at home. Just... Perfect. So perfect.
I can't wait to sleep for a few days. I haven't been sleeping well here. My anxiety is out the roof and I want to be snuggling with Daisy instead of pink blankets.
Only 2 whole days left in London and then I will be home. I really hope that people reading this don't think that I hate London or anything. I've had the time of my life. I have really enjoyed every minute and will truly miss this city. I will miss waiting for the tube, walking every where, the accents, the fascinating people, the parks, the museums, the cider, and pretty much so much about this city. I will also miss the friends that I have made on the program. There are a few that I am afraid distance will keep us apart. I truly sincerely hope that does not happen. Facebook and Skype will help make the U.S. feel like a smaller country.
Also, watch Glee. BEST. SHOW. EVER. <3
Alright, off to bed. LAST exam tomorrow! Also, this doesn't feel like a proper finals week. I haven't stayed up until 5:30 am writing in the SUB. Weird.
Cheers,
Kaitlin.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
countdown
December! Hello!
December seems to have crept up on me and has definitely taken me by surprise. Just a week ago I was thinking I had infinite amounts of time left in London. I realized today that I can look at the 10 day weather forecast and see what the weather will be like in Dallas when I arrive. Strange? Yes, a little bit, but it made me excited to be home. I have enjoyed my time here in London and definitely have had some of the most amazing experiences of my life, but there comes a time when homesickness sets in and its just time to go home. I think I've reached that point and it also helps that this coming week is full of exams because that will help me feel so relieved when I go home. It will feel as if the weight of the world has been lifted off of my shoulders and I can finally walk again shoulders down with a stressless stride in my step.
I'm ready to be home for so many reasons. Let me list them for you.
1) I get to shave my legs (that's right, I haven't shaved them since I've been here. so hot.)
2) relaxing. Really, just spending time doing nothing where I feel 100% comfortable
3) the nature preserve, I am planning on walking Chewy every day if I can.
4) my friends. I really truly value my friendships in Dallas
5) mexican food
6) no more upset stomachs from greasy carby food.
7) snuggling with the dogs
8) seeing my mom and dad every day and seeing my brother at least once a week (most likely more) and being with my sister for an entire week
9) pete's and benedicts. I MISS BREAKFAST FOOD SO MUCH
10) my own bed, pillows, and fleece blanket
11) driving, i haven't driven a car in over 3 months. if you know me, you know how difficult of a task that is.
12) I'm sure there's more, but I can't think of them right now.
I'm currently writing my 3rd paper and I'm about halfway through. I was expecting to have to spend all night working on it, but somehow when I'm writing about something I am passionate about it makes the assignment so much easier. Thank you, gender studies.
I'm going to see Peter Pan at the O2 center tomorrow. Should be AMAZING. I cannot wait! I will definitely live up my last few days here and they will be fun for sure. I may not have a last night of drunkenness or a last night of crazy times, but I will enjoy myself and I will spend it with my amazing friends that I've made here.
Sometimes life is a conundrum.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
December seems to have crept up on me and has definitely taken me by surprise. Just a week ago I was thinking I had infinite amounts of time left in London. I realized today that I can look at the 10 day weather forecast and see what the weather will be like in Dallas when I arrive. Strange? Yes, a little bit, but it made me excited to be home. I have enjoyed my time here in London and definitely have had some of the most amazing experiences of my life, but there comes a time when homesickness sets in and its just time to go home. I think I've reached that point and it also helps that this coming week is full of exams because that will help me feel so relieved when I go home. It will feel as if the weight of the world has been lifted off of my shoulders and I can finally walk again shoulders down with a stressless stride in my step.
I'm ready to be home for so many reasons. Let me list them for you.
1) I get to shave my legs (that's right, I haven't shaved them since I've been here. so hot.)
2) relaxing. Really, just spending time doing nothing where I feel 100% comfortable
3) the nature preserve, I am planning on walking Chewy every day if I can.
4) my friends. I really truly value my friendships in Dallas
5) mexican food
6) no more upset stomachs from greasy carby food.
7) snuggling with the dogs
8) seeing my mom and dad every day and seeing my brother at least once a week (most likely more) and being with my sister for an entire week
9) pete's and benedicts. I MISS BREAKFAST FOOD SO MUCH
10) my own bed, pillows, and fleece blanket
11) driving, i haven't driven a car in over 3 months. if you know me, you know how difficult of a task that is.
12) I'm sure there's more, but I can't think of them right now.
I'm currently writing my 3rd paper and I'm about halfway through. I was expecting to have to spend all night working on it, but somehow when I'm writing about something I am passionate about it makes the assignment so much easier. Thank you, gender studies.
I'm going to see Peter Pan at the O2 center tomorrow. Should be AMAZING. I cannot wait! I will definitely live up my last few days here and they will be fun for sure. I may not have a last night of drunkenness or a last night of crazy times, but I will enjoy myself and I will spend it with my amazing friends that I've made here.
Sometimes life is a conundrum.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
west end.
The best way to solve crankiness is to get a Ben's Cookie and then go see Phantom of the Opera in the West End. Also, during intermission get a chocolate ice cream cup and continue to enjoy the splendor. Even though your pants are soaking wet, you wore your crocs and therefore your socks are soaking wet and you didn't have a hot dinner like you were hoping... The Phantom makes it feel less important and totally makes up for any crankiness.
I think I might be addicted to going to the theatre. Shit. I think I might go see Wicked tomorrow if they still have tickets. Oh yes. Two plays in a row. I have 2 and a half weeks left. I better do everything I want to do.
Thanksgiving is Thursday. Weird, right? I'm far away from my family, but thankful for such an amazing experience. Bittersweet, really. I miss my family each day and constantly have them in my thoughts. My family also extends out to my friends that feel more like family to me as well. I miss them every day, yet I don't take a single day for granted here. I'm trying to soak up (ha, literally too) as much as possible. Thursday after Thanksgiving dinner at the centre we're going ice skating at Somerset House and then I will be skyping with my family and then enjoying a nice evening of paper writing. Exhilarating. I secretly wish I could be indulging in my mother's perfectly cooked turkey and all that delicious stuffing. Instead I will be the one providing stuffing for our dinner and it will 100% be out of a box. Not nearly as awesome. Its okay though, in 2 and a half weeks I will be snuggling with the pups, lounging about, eating mum's food, and enjoying the company of my family.
I've been listening to the new John Mayer album non-stop for about a week. Somehow he always knows exactly how I'm feeling. He can sing emotions that I never knew I had inside of me or just how to express them. I will always love him. Forever. Maybe even try to stalk him someday...
I also saw New Moon (the next Twilight movie). I feel uncomfortable with how attractive Taylor Lautner is though. He's only 17. He's really attractive. Awkward.
I have some serious paper writing and exam studying to do in the next 2 weeks. But nothing is going to stop me from having a good time.
Also, because Thanksgiving doesn't exist here... it has been socially appropriate for me to listen to Christmas music for several weeks. I love it.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
I think I might be addicted to going to the theatre. Shit. I think I might go see Wicked tomorrow if they still have tickets. Oh yes. Two plays in a row. I have 2 and a half weeks left. I better do everything I want to do.
Thanksgiving is Thursday. Weird, right? I'm far away from my family, but thankful for such an amazing experience. Bittersweet, really. I miss my family each day and constantly have them in my thoughts. My family also extends out to my friends that feel more like family to me as well. I miss them every day, yet I don't take a single day for granted here. I'm trying to soak up (ha, literally too) as much as possible. Thursday after Thanksgiving dinner at the centre we're going ice skating at Somerset House and then I will be skyping with my family and then enjoying a nice evening of paper writing. Exhilarating. I secretly wish I could be indulging in my mother's perfectly cooked turkey and all that delicious stuffing. Instead I will be the one providing stuffing for our dinner and it will 100% be out of a box. Not nearly as awesome. Its okay though, in 2 and a half weeks I will be snuggling with the pups, lounging about, eating mum's food, and enjoying the company of my family.
I've been listening to the new John Mayer album non-stop for about a week. Somehow he always knows exactly how I'm feeling. He can sing emotions that I never knew I had inside of me or just how to express them. I will always love him. Forever. Maybe even try to stalk him someday...
I also saw New Moon (the next Twilight movie). I feel uncomfortable with how attractive Taylor Lautner is though. He's only 17. He's really attractive. Awkward.
I have some serious paper writing and exam studying to do in the next 2 weeks. But nothing is going to stop me from having a good time.
Also, because Thanksgiving doesn't exist here... it has been socially appropriate for me to listen to Christmas music for several weeks. I love it.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Friday, November 20, 2009
Cranky?
I've been a bit crankypants lately. People are starting to get on my nerves and I'm fed up with worrying about others. The stress of finals in a few weeks is already getting to me. How ridiculous! I just can't seem to calm down, its a very weird situation. Experiences seem to be hindered by my frustration with those around me. Is that bad? Also, I would like to put this out there. Creativity is NOT being the most obscure because being the most obscure and then re-using that obscurity every single time does not make you creative. I think some people find themselves to be more intelligent and creative than they really are and it upsets me when they are so condescending towards others. VENTVENTVENT.
Instead of complaining I am going to write a list of things I NEED to do before I leave.
Things to do in the next 3 weeks:
1) ice skating at Somerset House or Hyde Park
2) see the Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square/ sing along with carolers
3) go on a Christmas light walk through all of the massive areas with fantastic lights
4) Get a picture at Platform 9 3/4
5) red telephone booth picture
6) see Phantom of the Opera
7) see the buskers (street musicians) at Covent Garden
8) Winter Wonderland festival in Hyde Park (doing it tomorrow!)
9) marry Rob Pattinson
10) see New Moon
11) write 4 papers and study for 4 exams and pack. hmmm...
We went to Stratford-Upon-Avon for an overnight trip Thursday to Friday. It was fantastic being where Shakespeare spent a good deal of his time and to see the land that influenced his art. It was also fun learning more about him and just being where he had once been. It felt much more preserved than say The Globe theatre in London. It made me want to read more. I want to read more classics and explore what I have been missing out on. I want to read more poetry and expand my knowledge of literature.
Tomorrow I'm going to the Winter Wonderland festival at Hyde Park. It should be a blast. There will be tons of good food, amazing Christmas markets, and holiday spirit.
The program from the play we saw last night had the actors think of the question "what is love?" and they answered. These are a few of my favorites...
“Love is discovering, to your delight, that you are no longer one of two, but half of one.”
“Love is holding hands. You spend your life looking for a hand that fits yours perfectly and is just as sweaty.”
“Love is a silent but palpable roar of joy
barely contained within our chest.
It is a ripe fruit dribbling juices after years
Of boiled sweets and dry cake.
It is the blanket that consumes us
when desire strips us of our protective skin.
It is our witness, our judge, our clock,
Our matter.
It makes us, breaks us, kneads our soul,
It wakes us, shakes us, keeps us whole.”
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Instead of complaining I am going to write a list of things I NEED to do before I leave.
Things to do in the next 3 weeks:
1) ice skating at Somerset House or Hyde Park
2) see the Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square/ sing along with carolers
3) go on a Christmas light walk through all of the massive areas with fantastic lights
4) Get a picture at Platform 9 3/4
5) red telephone booth picture
6) see Phantom of the Opera
7) see the buskers (street musicians) at Covent Garden
8) Winter Wonderland festival in Hyde Park (doing it tomorrow!)
9) marry Rob Pattinson
10) see New Moon
11) write 4 papers and study for 4 exams and pack. hmmm...
We went to Stratford-Upon-Avon for an overnight trip Thursday to Friday. It was fantastic being where Shakespeare spent a good deal of his time and to see the land that influenced his art. It was also fun learning more about him and just being where he had once been. It felt much more preserved than say The Globe theatre in London. It made me want to read more. I want to read more classics and explore what I have been missing out on. I want to read more poetry and expand my knowledge of literature.
Tomorrow I'm going to the Winter Wonderland festival at Hyde Park. It should be a blast. There will be tons of good food, amazing Christmas markets, and holiday spirit.
The program from the play we saw last night had the actors think of the question "what is love?" and they answered. These are a few of my favorites...
“Love is discovering, to your delight, that you are no longer one of two, but half of one.”
“Love is holding hands. You spend your life looking for a hand that fits yours perfectly and is just as sweaty.”
“Love is a silent but palpable roar of joy
barely contained within our chest.
It is a ripe fruit dribbling juices after years
Of boiled sweets and dry cake.
It is the blanket that consumes us
when desire strips us of our protective skin.
It is our witness, our judge, our clock,
Our matter.
It makes us, breaks us, kneads our soul,
It wakes us, shakes us, keeps us whole.”
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
romance and poetry
So, I'm the kind of person that has quite a bit of confidence until it comes to flirting and actually making a move. This will explain why my experiences here in London with men haven't really existed except in small brief moments. I enjoy observing people which means while I'm on the Tube I'm looking around and waiting for people to make eye contact, so this allows me to notice people. and some of those people happen to be attractive men, I guess I just never expected them to notice me! One day we were riding the Tube to school and this cute college looking kid was standing across from me in a packed carriage. The ride was a bit bumpy and at one point it caught both of us off guard. He almost tipped over, noticed that I was watching and smiled at me. We had a moment. Our toes touched. Yesterday I was waiting at a station to get on to the train and this guy was staring at me. He was cute, so I looked back and smiled. We got on the same carriage. He got off a few stops before. While standing on the platform waiting for his next train he could still see me and with a goofy grin and a bit of a giggle he waved to me. The only thing I could think of to do was just smile back and nod my head a bit acknowledging that we both just shared that moment. My most promising (but of course I didn't follow up) experience was Tom from the theatre. He helped me and Shauna get amazing tickets to one of the most sold out shows in London right now. With exhaustion and stress apparent between me and Shauna he made our night. He sneaked us to the back door and got us tickets before the others in line. And he said I should come and visit him some time at the theatre. and he was really cute. So, as much as I complain about love not being there... I'm still attractive. I just haven't been in the right situation to really make it happen. I'm hopeful. All of these experiences have really just made me realize that not all men prefer ditzy skinny girls. They can see beauty in something other than what the media tells them to. Yea, I consider myself one of those quirky not perfect people. I'm glad that London has made me feel this way. It makes me feel less down trodden about my current "single" status. Am I really single when I have so many amazing friends and family?
Poetry. Sometimes I feel like our modern world lacks the poetry of past times. We went and saw Bright Star this past weekend. Its the love story of John Keats. Every moment to them was poetic. The woman falls so deeply in love with him and feels that their love is represented through butterflies so she catches butterflies and keeps them in her room. There is a scene where she is literally covered in butterflies. The sheer poetry of this moment makes me long for something like that. John Keats also talks about laying on top of treetops and there is a scene where he does exactly that. He climbs a tree and lays for awhile. What I am also finding is that poetry exists now. We just have to find it. There is poetry in the clacking of heels rushing for the next train. There is poetry in autumn leaves falling. There is poetry in letting the rain drops collide on your skin after a long day. There is poetry everywhere we just have to see it. Nature provides the perfect setting and nature can be found even if it is just a square foot of a barren tree on the edge of the sidewalk. I also love human interactions on the Tube. They're fantastic and allow for so many possibilities! We just have to remember that everyone that rides the Tube is human and has a story. Maybe they had a bad day. Maybe they've had the best day of their life. We'll never know. Sometimes I wish more people talked on the Tube. Maybe I'll strike up conversation. You never know.
I have one month left here. Time flies so fast. I also have incredibly mixed feelings about this. I cannot wait to be home and be with my family and then on to my second home at UPS. but I'm also just starting to really really love it here. I'm finally comfortable with all the people here and I truly feel like I've made some great friends. Its funny how it just suddenly happens like that...
This weekend I am going to Paris with Sara and Melissa. I CANNOT wait for some stinky cheese, wine, crepes, and baguettes. Also, perhaps I'll find some more poetry in the city of love.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Poetry. Sometimes I feel like our modern world lacks the poetry of past times. We went and saw Bright Star this past weekend. Its the love story of John Keats. Every moment to them was poetic. The woman falls so deeply in love with him and feels that their love is represented through butterflies so she catches butterflies and keeps them in her room. There is a scene where she is literally covered in butterflies. The sheer poetry of this moment makes me long for something like that. John Keats also talks about laying on top of treetops and there is a scene where he does exactly that. He climbs a tree and lays for awhile. What I am also finding is that poetry exists now. We just have to find it. There is poetry in the clacking of heels rushing for the next train. There is poetry in autumn leaves falling. There is poetry in letting the rain drops collide on your skin after a long day. There is poetry everywhere we just have to see it. Nature provides the perfect setting and nature can be found even if it is just a square foot of a barren tree on the edge of the sidewalk. I also love human interactions on the Tube. They're fantastic and allow for so many possibilities! We just have to remember that everyone that rides the Tube is human and has a story. Maybe they had a bad day. Maybe they've had the best day of their life. We'll never know. Sometimes I wish more people talked on the Tube. Maybe I'll strike up conversation. You never know.
I have one month left here. Time flies so fast. I also have incredibly mixed feelings about this. I cannot wait to be home and be with my family and then on to my second home at UPS. but I'm also just starting to really really love it here. I'm finally comfortable with all the people here and I truly feel like I've made some great friends. Its funny how it just suddenly happens like that...
This weekend I am going to Paris with Sara and Melissa. I CANNOT wait for some stinky cheese, wine, crepes, and baguettes. Also, perhaps I'll find some more poetry in the city of love.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
only human
I've noticed that London is full of smokers. Everyone here smokes. I feel like I can't step a few feet without getting clouds of smoke blown in to my face. Now, this is especially frustrating because I've had this 3 week sickness that doesn't seem to want to leave. I'm convinced the smoke and pollution in the air is irritating my lungs therefore making it impossible to recover. Thank you, London. What is nice though is that my chesty cough is subsiding and all that remains is some nasal congestion and a miserable headache, improvement! I got fed up and hit up SuperDrug for some medicine. I got Sudafed (They have it here!!) and some Vicks nasal spray. If this doesn't work then I will try the cold and flu medicine and if that doesn't work then I'll go to the Doctor. Hopefully I'm not dead by then.
London just recently decided to get cold. One day I was able to walk around in a sweatshirt and jeans and then today I felt chilled to the bone with a sweater and jacket. I am layering from this day on. This is perfect timing because the Christmas lights at Oxford street were just lit (by Jim Carrey!). As the Christmas decorations go up and the advertisements become more prominent it makes me yearn for some sort of romantic relationship. I wish I were holding someone's hand and taking in all the beautiful lights and carols and especially to go ice skating! I am quite an independent individual and haven't really been one to NEED to be in a relationship, but sometimes it would be nice. Its okay, I won't let anything stop me from having a good time.
Tomorrow is Guy Fawkes night and there are tons of firework displays throughout the city and there will be some on the weekend as well. Definitely going to be a good time.
This city is finally beginning to feel homey. Perfect timing, right? I have a month left...
Next weekend I'm going to Paris and then the weekend after that we go to Stratford-Upon-Avon and then its Thanksgiving and then we have like... 2 weeks? So, time goes by so quickly. You blink and the experience is over.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
London just recently decided to get cold. One day I was able to walk around in a sweatshirt and jeans and then today I felt chilled to the bone with a sweater and jacket. I am layering from this day on. This is perfect timing because the Christmas lights at Oxford street were just lit (by Jim Carrey!). As the Christmas decorations go up and the advertisements become more prominent it makes me yearn for some sort of romantic relationship. I wish I were holding someone's hand and taking in all the beautiful lights and carols and especially to go ice skating! I am quite an independent individual and haven't really been one to NEED to be in a relationship, but sometimes it would be nice. Its okay, I won't let anything stop me from having a good time.
Tomorrow is Guy Fawkes night and there are tons of firework displays throughout the city and there will be some on the weekend as well. Definitely going to be a good time.
This city is finally beginning to feel homey. Perfect timing, right? I have a month left...
Next weekend I'm going to Paris and then the weekend after that we go to Stratford-Upon-Avon and then its Thanksgiving and then we have like... 2 weeks? So, time goes by so quickly. You blink and the experience is over.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Recap
So, I went to Scotland and Ireland for 10 days. I'm back in the swing of school and my aunt Shauna is in town. Busy, much?
Ireland was gorgeous. The countryside is intoxicating. At one point we stopped at a beach and I'm not quite sure I've been happier than I was in that moment during my time abroad. The water seems to calm me and excite me in ways that no other scenery can. Dublin was a dirty city. We stayed right in Temple Bar area which is notorious for being a tourist area where they only drink, drink and drink some more. So, it was gross. There were people throwing up on the side of the road and everyone was so loud. Definitely interesting. I had tons more fun on our 3 day tour of Ireland. The tour group was amazing (made so many Australian friends!) and the guide, Kev, told many Irish folk stories and that was a lot of fun. We stopped in a faerie ring and we got to go in to some caves that are hundreds of thousands of years old. They were gorgeous! We stopped one night in a town with only 4 pubs and some amazing live music. We bumped in to some fellow Pacific Northwesters (in a tiny town in Ireland...) and they bought us a round of drinks! They were probably my parents age and one of them has a kid at UPS! Crazy, right? She's a freshman and I had to keep reminding them that because we're abroad we haven't met her yet! We went to the Guinness storehouse where I learned to pour the perfect pint (and then enjoy it) and it was a lot of fun. I was sick by this time, but we made the most of what we had. It was definitely good times in Ireland.
Scotland felt like going home. I feel such a familial connection there that I was overwhelmed with my love for Caledonia! Our hostel ended up being quite sketchy and we tried to stay out of it for as much time as possible... BUT! Edinburgh was a fantastically haunted city. (Even if my mom is skeptical). We did another 3 day tour, but this time of Scotland. We saw so many castles and Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, Glencoe, and so many other sites. We went to the castle that Made of Honor was filmed at! And we saw the castle that Monty Python and the Holy Grail was filmed at! We went to the William Wallace monument which was really cool! We saw Hamish the hairy cow. (they call them coo's though) Our tour guide told terrible (but AMAZING) jokes! The tour group was a bit different this time. They were younger (more our age) and had their hopes mainly set on getting drunk, but I was sick and didn't really feel like wasting my time and money on alcohol. Edinburgh was fantastic as well. We did a ghost tour late at night where we got to go into the vaults of Edinburgh. We also did a free walking tour and I fell in love with our guide. We even went to the cafe where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter! We were sitting at a table that had drawers and hundreds of notes in them. We contributed our own notes as well. It was so much fun. The last day there Melissa and I went to the Edinburgh Castle and it was really cool. We got to see the honors and the stone of destiny!
Overall our time was fantastic! There were some ups and downs that come with being with the same people for 10 days straight, but we had fun. I'm still a bit sick, but recovering. I just need some good sleep and rest.
Shauna, like I said, is in town and we went to dinner and a musical last night. We saw Avenue Q and it was absolutely hilarious! Exactly what we both needed, a good laugh. I'm seeing her again tonight and I have no idea what we're doing. But I know it will be entertaining.
I'm missing my family more than ever. I love these experiences, but I will be ready to be home when I go.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Ireland was gorgeous. The countryside is intoxicating. At one point we stopped at a beach and I'm not quite sure I've been happier than I was in that moment during my time abroad. The water seems to calm me and excite me in ways that no other scenery can. Dublin was a dirty city. We stayed right in Temple Bar area which is notorious for being a tourist area where they only drink, drink and drink some more. So, it was gross. There were people throwing up on the side of the road and everyone was so loud. Definitely interesting. I had tons more fun on our 3 day tour of Ireland. The tour group was amazing (made so many Australian friends!) and the guide, Kev, told many Irish folk stories and that was a lot of fun. We stopped in a faerie ring and we got to go in to some caves that are hundreds of thousands of years old. They were gorgeous! We stopped one night in a town with only 4 pubs and some amazing live music. We bumped in to some fellow Pacific Northwesters (in a tiny town in Ireland...) and they bought us a round of drinks! They were probably my parents age and one of them has a kid at UPS! Crazy, right? She's a freshman and I had to keep reminding them that because we're abroad we haven't met her yet! We went to the Guinness storehouse where I learned to pour the perfect pint (and then enjoy it) and it was a lot of fun. I was sick by this time, but we made the most of what we had. It was definitely good times in Ireland.
Scotland felt like going home. I feel such a familial connection there that I was overwhelmed with my love for Caledonia! Our hostel ended up being quite sketchy and we tried to stay out of it for as much time as possible... BUT! Edinburgh was a fantastically haunted city. (Even if my mom is skeptical). We did another 3 day tour, but this time of Scotland. We saw so many castles and Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, Glencoe, and so many other sites. We went to the castle that Made of Honor was filmed at! And we saw the castle that Monty Python and the Holy Grail was filmed at! We went to the William Wallace monument which was really cool! We saw Hamish the hairy cow. (they call them coo's though) Our tour guide told terrible (but AMAZING) jokes! The tour group was a bit different this time. They were younger (more our age) and had their hopes mainly set on getting drunk, but I was sick and didn't really feel like wasting my time and money on alcohol. Edinburgh was fantastic as well. We did a ghost tour late at night where we got to go into the vaults of Edinburgh. We also did a free walking tour and I fell in love with our guide. We even went to the cafe where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter! We were sitting at a table that had drawers and hundreds of notes in them. We contributed our own notes as well. It was so much fun. The last day there Melissa and I went to the Edinburgh Castle and it was really cool. We got to see the honors and the stone of destiny!
Overall our time was fantastic! There were some ups and downs that come with being with the same people for 10 days straight, but we had fun. I'm still a bit sick, but recovering. I just need some good sleep and rest.
Shauna, like I said, is in town and we went to dinner and a musical last night. We saw Avenue Q and it was absolutely hilarious! Exactly what we both needed, a good laugh. I'm seeing her again tonight and I have no idea what we're doing. But I know it will be entertaining.
I'm missing my family more than ever. I love these experiences, but I will be ready to be home when I go.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Goodbye London, Hello Ireland and Scotland.
So, I'm going on vacation. hahahaha funny, right? I'm already on vacation, kind of. Well, for 10 days I will be in Ireland and then Scotland.
Wish me luck.
There will be a lengthy blog afterward, I'm sure.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Wish me luck.
There will be a lengthy blog afterward, I'm sure.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Mid-Term week is looming...
Hello all,
Well, it's about 24 hours until the insanity of mid-term week. I have finished 3 of my 6 papers and I'm about halfway done with my 4th. Movin' and groovin'. It's interesting how during the semester it seems like we had NOTHING to do and then all of a sudden BOOM homework out the wazoo. Oh well. I'm somehow managing to keep my sanity.
Monday and Tuesday night I will be seeing plays. Monday is The Comedians. It's a play about evening classes (they love those here) and a group of men that want to leave their day jobs to become comedians. On Tuesday we will be seeing Othello in Trafalger Square. It looks like it will be a really cool adaptation. I'm pretty excited about it.
Thursday evening I will be leaving with a few friends to visit Ireland and Scotland for 10 days. In Ireland we are taking a 3 day tour around the country and then spending one full day in Dublin. Don't you worry, I will be visiting the Guinness factor! When we get to Scotland we will be doing another 3 day tour of the country and we have saved 2 full days in Edinburgh to see what all is going on there. It is a little bit stressful trying to write papers, study for tests AND prepare for a 10 day vacation. Yea, poor me, right?
We went to Bath on Friday for a day trip. It really is a beautiful city and worth seeing. I feel like our mutual stress about mid-terms made the experience a little less fun. Oh well. We had some pad thai and Alyssa and I found some crepes. Yes, Nutella and caramel with a scoop of blackberry gelato. It rained and was chilly the entire time we were there which was kind of nice because it felt a little more like Tacoma. It's really really strange how sunny it has been. I shouldn't be complaining, but isn't London supposed to be super rainy all the time?!
I'm excited for a package my mom sent me. I haven't received it yet, but it has one of my favorite sweatshirts and I just can't wait to bundle up in that. Reminders of home are always nice.
Back to my paper... but first here is a picture from PostSecret that I absolutely love and adore.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Well, it's about 24 hours until the insanity of mid-term week. I have finished 3 of my 6 papers and I'm about halfway done with my 4th. Movin' and groovin'. It's interesting how during the semester it seems like we had NOTHING to do and then all of a sudden BOOM homework out the wazoo. Oh well. I'm somehow managing to keep my sanity.
Monday and Tuesday night I will be seeing plays. Monday is The Comedians. It's a play about evening classes (they love those here) and a group of men that want to leave their day jobs to become comedians. On Tuesday we will be seeing Othello in Trafalger Square. It looks like it will be a really cool adaptation. I'm pretty excited about it.
Thursday evening I will be leaving with a few friends to visit Ireland and Scotland for 10 days. In Ireland we are taking a 3 day tour around the country and then spending one full day in Dublin. Don't you worry, I will be visiting the Guinness factor! When we get to Scotland we will be doing another 3 day tour of the country and we have saved 2 full days in Edinburgh to see what all is going on there. It is a little bit stressful trying to write papers, study for tests AND prepare for a 10 day vacation. Yea, poor me, right?
We went to Bath on Friday for a day trip. It really is a beautiful city and worth seeing. I feel like our mutual stress about mid-terms made the experience a little less fun. Oh well. We had some pad thai and Alyssa and I found some crepes. Yes, Nutella and caramel with a scoop of blackberry gelato. It rained and was chilly the entire time we were there which was kind of nice because it felt a little more like Tacoma. It's really really strange how sunny it has been. I shouldn't be complaining, but isn't London supposed to be super rainy all the time?!
I'm excited for a package my mom sent me. I haven't received it yet, but it has one of my favorite sweatshirts and I just can't wait to bundle up in that. Reminders of home are always nice.
Back to my paper... but first here is a picture from PostSecret that I absolutely love and adore.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Sunday, October 4, 2009
I'm avoiding writing papers. So...
So, I was reading Claire's blog and I really liked that she showed her room. So, I thought I'd copy her. (isn't that the best form of flattery?) I'm going to give you a little sneak peak into our room (mine and Melissa's) because I'm 100% positive you're dying to know where I'm living!
These are the rules of the house.
This is my bed that will give me back problems for the rest of my life. And don't worry, Pinky made the journey over just fine.
I am currently sitting in that chair and typing on my computer. This is the only thing separating me and Melissa. Our beds are vurry vurry close together. Its quite a small room for two people, but we manage quite well.
This is the view from our room. Alice has a large apple tree (its on the upper right) and that is where our apple desserts come from. You might be thinking "apple dessert! awesome!" Well, the same dessert (and having dessert) every night gets to be too much. Would it kill us to eat something healthy? I think my host mom thinks so.
Well, this is where I'm living. One of these days I'll put up a picture of the front of the house. Its quite quaint.
Alice got us a treat last night for dinner. Fish 'n' Chips. If you know me then you know how difficult that was for me. Me + Seafood = No Bueno. Its the kind where the scales are still on it. Yuck. And I'm still a smidge sick and it was basically a giant greaseball. Not so good for the body. I feel bad because she thought she was being so awesome to us. But really I secretly feel like she is trying to kill me. I also (after eating it) explained that I don't really like seafood and she proceeded to tell us where we can get some more if we'd like. Really?... REALLY?
Anyway. I should probably start writing my essays. I spent all day yesterday procrastinating...
OH. I also have postcards! and will be mailing them soon. So, if you are reading this and don't receive a postcard... I'm really sorry... They're kind of expensive. But I will try and send out as many as I can!
Cheers!
Kaitlin
P.S. London is a dirty dirty city. Proof:
This is a wall and all that black stuff is dirt, exhaust, and other gross things in the air.
These are the rules of the house.
This is my bed that will give me back problems for the rest of my life. And don't worry, Pinky made the journey over just fine.
I am currently sitting in that chair and typing on my computer. This is the only thing separating me and Melissa. Our beds are vurry vurry close together. Its quite a small room for two people, but we manage quite well.
This is the view from our room. Alice has a large apple tree (its on the upper right) and that is where our apple desserts come from. You might be thinking "apple dessert! awesome!" Well, the same dessert (and having dessert) every night gets to be too much. Would it kill us to eat something healthy? I think my host mom thinks so.
Well, this is where I'm living. One of these days I'll put up a picture of the front of the house. Its quite quaint.
Alice got us a treat last night for dinner. Fish 'n' Chips. If you know me then you know how difficult that was for me. Me + Seafood = No Bueno. Its the kind where the scales are still on it. Yuck. And I'm still a smidge sick and it was basically a giant greaseball. Not so good for the body. I feel bad because she thought she was being so awesome to us. But really I secretly feel like she is trying to kill me. I also (after eating it) explained that I don't really like seafood and she proceeded to tell us where we can get some more if we'd like. Really?... REALLY?
Anyway. I should probably start writing my essays. I spent all day yesterday procrastinating...
OH. I also have postcards! and will be mailing them soon. So, if you are reading this and don't receive a postcard... I'm really sorry... They're kind of expensive. But I will try and send out as many as I can!
Cheers!
Kaitlin
P.S. London is a dirty dirty city. Proof:
This is a wall and all that black stuff is dirt, exhaust, and other gross things in the air.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Miss Sniffles
So, here it is. Cold season. Oh, and not to mention. Everyone in London is within such close quarters that I'm pretty positive the entire city has a cold. We went to see All's Well That End's Well at the National Theatre last night and it was almost hard to hear over the sniffles, coughs, and sneezes. Seriously. I've got a cold and hopefully that's it. My throat hurts, my nose is congested and I've got lovely headaches. I hate being sick and the feeling is amplified because I'm on a different continent. I don't want to be complainy, but I really hate it.
I've been here a few days short of a month. Isn't that crazy? I still feel like I have no routine and that every day is overwhelming and new. Sometimes all I want is a routine that keeps me busy. All this free time is overwhelming. London is such a huge city and I have a lot of free time! What am I supposed to do with myself?!?!? I still haven't adventured much in to the nightlife here. I'm usually busy and I'm so tired by the end of the day that going out at night seems too exhausting!
I had the realization the other day while taking the Tube home that London IS my campus. Isn't that crazy to think about? This massive and historical city is where I roam as a student. I want to become more familiar with my surroundings and really make London feel like another home to me, but its tougher than I originally expected.
Don't get me wrong, I'm enjoying it here. It's just a different experience than I was expecting. I will be writing papers in preparation for mid-terms which are in 2 weeks. Here's the good news: in exactly 2 weeks I will be spending 10 days in Ireland and Scotland. This is real and so exciting. I'm falling in love more with the people every day. Catching someones eye and smiling has become a little game that I enjoy on public transportation. I'm finding pleasure in the smaller moments rather than the moments that I expected to enjoy so thoroughly.
Also, I absolutely adore seeing at least one play a week. It really makes me happy. I feel like its Christmas day every time I show my ticket, take my seat, and the lights go down.
Well, I'm sleepy and sniffly and watching CSI. Time for bed! This post was a bit pointless. I just felt the overwhelming need to complain a smidge. I'm sure the next one will be more optimistic. I'm hanging out with Jesse and Stephanie tomorrow and we're going to the Tate Modern and possibly Hyde Park. My slice of UPS in the midst of crazy London. ALSO. there is a commercial with laughing babies! Oh, the British are so clever. They know how to make me smile! Okay, bed time.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
I've been here a few days short of a month. Isn't that crazy? I still feel like I have no routine and that every day is overwhelming and new. Sometimes all I want is a routine that keeps me busy. All this free time is overwhelming. London is such a huge city and I have a lot of free time! What am I supposed to do with myself?!?!? I still haven't adventured much in to the nightlife here. I'm usually busy and I'm so tired by the end of the day that going out at night seems too exhausting!
I had the realization the other day while taking the Tube home that London IS my campus. Isn't that crazy to think about? This massive and historical city is where I roam as a student. I want to become more familiar with my surroundings and really make London feel like another home to me, but its tougher than I originally expected.
Don't get me wrong, I'm enjoying it here. It's just a different experience than I was expecting. I will be writing papers in preparation for mid-terms which are in 2 weeks. Here's the good news: in exactly 2 weeks I will be spending 10 days in Ireland and Scotland. This is real and so exciting. I'm falling in love more with the people every day. Catching someones eye and smiling has become a little game that I enjoy on public transportation. I'm finding pleasure in the smaller moments rather than the moments that I expected to enjoy so thoroughly.
Also, I absolutely adore seeing at least one play a week. It really makes me happy. I feel like its Christmas day every time I show my ticket, take my seat, and the lights go down.
Well, I'm sleepy and sniffly and watching CSI. Time for bed! This post was a bit pointless. I just felt the overwhelming need to complain a smidge. I'm sure the next one will be more optimistic. I'm hanging out with Jesse and Stephanie tomorrow and we're going to the Tate Modern and possibly Hyde Park. My slice of UPS in the midst of crazy London. ALSO. there is a commercial with laughing babies! Oh, the British are so clever. They know how to make me smile! Okay, bed time.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Wales
We went to Wales this weekend. Absolutely amazing.
I don't know exactly how to describe everything we saw. Every hill was lush green and white spotted with sheep. TONS and TONS of sheep. Every town was just as quaint as the last and every person had an interesting personality rooted in their pride of being Welsh. For example, our bus driver refused to turn around so instead he backed the bus up a hill. Which reminds me... We had a HUGE bus. There was only 22 of us total and the bus (coach) seated 61. We all pretty much had our own aisle if we wanted it.
I always do this. I start in the middle when I should really start at the beginning. Okay, so. The beginning. We took the train from Paddington Station (London) to Cardiff Central (Wales). We arrived in Wales and were immediately greeted by Welsh and English speaking people. After a 10 minute drive we arrived at the waterfront for a quick break to eat and to admire our surroundings (little did we know that it was only going to get better). Lunch ended and we met at the National Assembly of Wales building. Our tour guide was charming and loves his country. He bragged about how progressive Wales is and how their government works. We got to tour the building and see where they meet and in general admire the splendor of the building. After that we headed to Tintern Abbey. This is an 11th century Abbey. Pulling up was inexplicable. I was so overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the structure and all the small intricacies as well as how massive the whole thing was. It was beautiful. I felt so small in comparison. There was so much history in this country just lying about. It felt odd to stumble upon an ancient ruin after only being 3 minutes out of the nearest village. History was just everywhere there. After the Abbey we made our way to the hostel. The hostel was quaint and in the middle of no where. We got there and found out that we had to walk the remaining 15 minutes because the coach was too big and the road was too small to get there. The owner greeted us when we got there and their property had horses and was gorgeous. Our rooms had bunk beds and they provided us with a 3 course dinner. I, immediately after dinner, felt sick. Like, almost vomiting sick. That was an early night for me. After a few Advil and several hours of sleep I felt much better the next day.
The next day (sorry for the play by play, but its how I can remember it all!) we went to Big Pit. It is the only operating coal mine in Wales. We got to go underground! We put on helmets, head lamps, and belts with battery packs and safety gear and then headed onto the elevator that took us 300 feet below ground. We got to tour through where they mined and learn about the lives of the miners and what it would have been like down there. At one point we all turned off our headlamps and stood in the total darkness. Young boys, around age 6, would be in that darkness for 12 hours a day every day opening and closing the doors for the horses in the mine. Absolutely ridiculous. I cannot imagine living that life. All of the tour guides there are ex-miners and are absolutely hilarious. They have playful banter and kept trying to keep the mood light even though we learned that 246 people had been killed in that specific mine and we learned about the lives of the young children as well as the horses (they were only taken out of the mine for 2 weeks during the summer). Our next destination was Brecon. It was an adorable touristy area where the center of town consisted of a few pubs and an English/Chinese food restaurant. We visited one of the cathedrals and after that enjoyed a pot of Welsh blend tea and a few Welsh cakes (we were feeling Welshy). After that we headed back to the hostel for another night of a 3 course dinner (that luckily didn't make me sick this time). We ended up sitting around and talking and enjoying our last night there.
Our last day was spent visiting an ancient Roman Amphitheatre and bath. We also went and saw the Chepstow Castle. These were also amazing sites. The history, again, is just mind blowing. Nothing in America really even compares.
It would be easy to fall in love with this place. The beauty is astounding and the history is fascinating. The people are friendly, in the countryside, and love their country. Wales made me even more excited for Ireland and Scotland.
I'm enjoying every minute here, but as always... Missing home and UPS.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
I don't know exactly how to describe everything we saw. Every hill was lush green and white spotted with sheep. TONS and TONS of sheep. Every town was just as quaint as the last and every person had an interesting personality rooted in their pride of being Welsh. For example, our bus driver refused to turn around so instead he backed the bus up a hill. Which reminds me... We had a HUGE bus. There was only 22 of us total and the bus (coach) seated 61. We all pretty much had our own aisle if we wanted it.
I always do this. I start in the middle when I should really start at the beginning. Okay, so. The beginning. We took the train from Paddington Station (London) to Cardiff Central (Wales). We arrived in Wales and were immediately greeted by Welsh and English speaking people. After a 10 minute drive we arrived at the waterfront for a quick break to eat and to admire our surroundings (little did we know that it was only going to get better). Lunch ended and we met at the National Assembly of Wales building. Our tour guide was charming and loves his country. He bragged about how progressive Wales is and how their government works. We got to tour the building and see where they meet and in general admire the splendor of the building. After that we headed to Tintern Abbey. This is an 11th century Abbey. Pulling up was inexplicable. I was so overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the structure and all the small intricacies as well as how massive the whole thing was. It was beautiful. I felt so small in comparison. There was so much history in this country just lying about. It felt odd to stumble upon an ancient ruin after only being 3 minutes out of the nearest village. History was just everywhere there. After the Abbey we made our way to the hostel. The hostel was quaint and in the middle of no where. We got there and found out that we had to walk the remaining 15 minutes because the coach was too big and the road was too small to get there. The owner greeted us when we got there and their property had horses and was gorgeous. Our rooms had bunk beds and they provided us with a 3 course dinner. I, immediately after dinner, felt sick. Like, almost vomiting sick. That was an early night for me. After a few Advil and several hours of sleep I felt much better the next day.
The next day (sorry for the play by play, but its how I can remember it all!) we went to Big Pit. It is the only operating coal mine in Wales. We got to go underground! We put on helmets, head lamps, and belts with battery packs and safety gear and then headed onto the elevator that took us 300 feet below ground. We got to tour through where they mined and learn about the lives of the miners and what it would have been like down there. At one point we all turned off our headlamps and stood in the total darkness. Young boys, around age 6, would be in that darkness for 12 hours a day every day opening and closing the doors for the horses in the mine. Absolutely ridiculous. I cannot imagine living that life. All of the tour guides there are ex-miners and are absolutely hilarious. They have playful banter and kept trying to keep the mood light even though we learned that 246 people had been killed in that specific mine and we learned about the lives of the young children as well as the horses (they were only taken out of the mine for 2 weeks during the summer). Our next destination was Brecon. It was an adorable touristy area where the center of town consisted of a few pubs and an English/Chinese food restaurant. We visited one of the cathedrals and after that enjoyed a pot of Welsh blend tea and a few Welsh cakes (we were feeling Welshy). After that we headed back to the hostel for another night of a 3 course dinner (that luckily didn't make me sick this time). We ended up sitting around and talking and enjoying our last night there.
Our last day was spent visiting an ancient Roman Amphitheatre and bath. We also went and saw the Chepstow Castle. These were also amazing sites. The history, again, is just mind blowing. Nothing in America really even compares.
It would be easy to fall in love with this place. The beauty is astounding and the history is fascinating. The people are friendly, in the countryside, and love their country. Wales made me even more excited for Ireland and Scotland.
I'm enjoying every minute here, but as always... Missing home and UPS.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Sunday, September 20, 2009
2 French guys and I went to church.
Ok, so. My life is always interesting. I didn't even have to go to a club all night and get super drunk to have awkward interesting experiences.
Friday I went to see Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square. Super touristy, but fun. It was packed and we took a lot of pictures. All of the walking gets exhausting, but its worth it to see these amazing beautiful ancient buildings. It seems like most of these buildings are older than the United States of America. The highlight of Friday was in the evening. A few of us went a comedy club at the Goat Tavern. We went up a flight of sketchy stairs and popped into a room with about 25 chairs and listened to some fantastic comedians. We also drank cider. mmmmm. Cider is basically beer, but tastier. Mine was pear flavored. I was hoping to expand my beer horizons while here, but I think I might have to just become a pro at cider. Awesome!
Saturday was where the interesting and odd events started. Alyssa and I hopped on the Tube and ended up sitting next to two guys. One of them turned to Alyssa and in broken English attempted to ask us what Wembley Stadium was. With the help of a local (who could see it from where they were sitting) we told them that its where they play sports and have concerts and fun stuff like that. Well, this started a conversation about where they're from (France) and what they're doing here (an apprenticeship studying engineering) and how long they'll be here (4 months) and what they were planning on doing in the city (see Big Ben). We tried to help them find their way on the Tube to their final destination, but chitchat distracted us and they missed their stop. So, they hopped off with us while we tried to explain how they could find their way there. Well, they were hoping to hang out with us. (We were on our way to Camden market). So, they joined us. We walked around Camden for awhile. Tried to converse. and they continued following us around. Alyssa and I were wanting to just spend some time looking and walking around, but with 2 awkward French boys following us it kind of made it difficult to enjoy. Also, trying to help someone with their English and understand them and enjoy conversation got tiring. I'm so spoiled. Oh, also. One of the best parts was that both of their names were Pierre. So, they became Pierre 1 and Pierre 2. Pierre 1 had an addiction to coffee and cigarettes and I'm pretty sure other things. He smoked (and rolled his own cigarettes) several times and then had several cups of coffee. So French. They listen to ABBA, Cher, and Linkin Park. Awesome, right? Well, it was one of those days to remember. Even though I didn't purchase anything I still had an interesting day and managed to see yet another awesome aspect of London.
Sunday (today) I went to church. I went because my host mom asked me to go and because today was their international service where she was speaking and because after mass they had international (free!) food. Okay. So. The church was a Catholic church, very ornate and grand. I've never attended a Catholic mass and probably won't again, but this was an interesting experience. I can understand why people go to church and why it is so important to them. It was a pleasant church where everyone seemed kind and caring. A community in which you know you'll be supported. It is overwhelming how beautiful everything in the church was and it would be easy to love every word they tell you. Its easier to believe what someone tells you to. It is comforting to know the answers. It makes life more comprehensive if we know where we are going when we die, why we are here, and that there is something bigger than us. What was more interesting to me though was watching the other people while everything was going on. Children were fussing and everyone generally seemed to be tired and perhaps dozing off. But it all meant something to these people. I have a better understanding of why people love church, but I still will not be attending. I have my beliefs and somehow I have managed to be a good person without the ten commandments guiding my way.
Now, I must continue reading All's Well that Ends Well and read The Pitmen Painters. Even though I would rather curl up in bed (wait, I'm already there) and fall asleep. Also, DAD! I'm watching an old James Bond movie and missing you.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Friday I went to see Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square. Super touristy, but fun. It was packed and we took a lot of pictures. All of the walking gets exhausting, but its worth it to see these amazing beautiful ancient buildings. It seems like most of these buildings are older than the United States of America. The highlight of Friday was in the evening. A few of us went a comedy club at the Goat Tavern. We went up a flight of sketchy stairs and popped into a room with about 25 chairs and listened to some fantastic comedians. We also drank cider. mmmmm. Cider is basically beer, but tastier. Mine was pear flavored. I was hoping to expand my beer horizons while here, but I think I might have to just become a pro at cider. Awesome!
Saturday was where the interesting and odd events started. Alyssa and I hopped on the Tube and ended up sitting next to two guys. One of them turned to Alyssa and in broken English attempted to ask us what Wembley Stadium was. With the help of a local (who could see it from where they were sitting) we told them that its where they play sports and have concerts and fun stuff like that. Well, this started a conversation about where they're from (France) and what they're doing here (an apprenticeship studying engineering) and how long they'll be here (4 months) and what they were planning on doing in the city (see Big Ben). We tried to help them find their way on the Tube to their final destination, but chitchat distracted us and they missed their stop. So, they hopped off with us while we tried to explain how they could find their way there. Well, they were hoping to hang out with us. (We were on our way to Camden market). So, they joined us. We walked around Camden for awhile. Tried to converse. and they continued following us around. Alyssa and I were wanting to just spend some time looking and walking around, but with 2 awkward French boys following us it kind of made it difficult to enjoy. Also, trying to help someone with their English and understand them and enjoy conversation got tiring. I'm so spoiled. Oh, also. One of the best parts was that both of their names were Pierre. So, they became Pierre 1 and Pierre 2. Pierre 1 had an addiction to coffee and cigarettes and I'm pretty sure other things. He smoked (and rolled his own cigarettes) several times and then had several cups of coffee. So French. They listen to ABBA, Cher, and Linkin Park. Awesome, right? Well, it was one of those days to remember. Even though I didn't purchase anything I still had an interesting day and managed to see yet another awesome aspect of London.
Sunday (today) I went to church. I went because my host mom asked me to go and because today was their international service where she was speaking and because after mass they had international (free!) food. Okay. So. The church was a Catholic church, very ornate and grand. I've never attended a Catholic mass and probably won't again, but this was an interesting experience. I can understand why people go to church and why it is so important to them. It was a pleasant church where everyone seemed kind and caring. A community in which you know you'll be supported. It is overwhelming how beautiful everything in the church was and it would be easy to love every word they tell you. Its easier to believe what someone tells you to. It is comforting to know the answers. It makes life more comprehensive if we know where we are going when we die, why we are here, and that there is something bigger than us. What was more interesting to me though was watching the other people while everything was going on. Children were fussing and everyone generally seemed to be tired and perhaps dozing off. But it all meant something to these people. I have a better understanding of why people love church, but I still will not be attending. I have my beliefs and somehow I have managed to be a good person without the ten commandments guiding my way.
Now, I must continue reading All's Well that Ends Well and read The Pitmen Painters. Even though I would rather curl up in bed (wait, I'm already there) and fall asleep. Also, DAD! I'm watching an old James Bond movie and missing you.
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Friday, September 18, 2009
homesick.
Things I am excited for back in the States:
1) Lavender and Vanilla laundry softener
2) Laundry dryers and not having to wait for the rain to subside to get dry clothes
3) peanut butter
4) RDG <3 <3
5) My mom, dad, and brother (and sister if she lived in texas)
6) Diversions
7) sarcastic friends that get my sense of humor
8) toilets that aren't confusing to flush
9) being able to eat any where in the house
10) not having to worry about catching the night bus
11) being able to open the fridge and eat anything
12) less money worries
13) warm vanilla sugar body spray. mine exploded in my bag :(
14) minty toothpaste
15) a bigger shower where its actually a pleasant soothing experience
16) Christmas
Things I am excited for while abroad:
1) traveling! (Ireland, Scotland and Paris!)
2) pubs
3) tousled hair (on men)
4) new friendships
5) caffe nero
6) less homework (make that almost NO homework)
7) ease of public transportation
8) London
9) spending time with Jesse (my slice of home)
10) legal drinking age is 18 here
11) SO MANY amazing plays
12) markets
13) spectacular history
14) people watching
15) everything is new.
1) Lavender and Vanilla laundry softener
2) Laundry dryers and not having to wait for the rain to subside to get dry clothes
3) peanut butter
4) RDG <3 <3
5) My mom, dad, and brother (and sister if she lived in texas)
6) Diversions
7) sarcastic friends that get my sense of humor
8) toilets that aren't confusing to flush
9) being able to eat any where in the house
10) not having to worry about catching the night bus
11) being able to open the fridge and eat anything
12) less money worries
13) warm vanilla sugar body spray. mine exploded in my bag :(
14) minty toothpaste
15) a bigger shower where its actually a pleasant soothing experience
16) Christmas
Things I am excited for while abroad:
1) traveling! (Ireland, Scotland and Paris!)
2) pubs
3) tousled hair (on men)
4) new friendships
5) caffe nero
6) less homework (make that almost NO homework)
7) ease of public transportation
8) London
9) spending time with Jesse (my slice of home)
10) legal drinking age is 18 here
11) SO MANY amazing plays
12) markets
13) spectacular history
14) people watching
15) everything is new.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Oh, London <3
Sometimes I forget that I'm actually in London. I'll be in class and I'll realize that I'm getting used to my professor's accent and that everyone around me sounds American. And then... I step outside. BAM. Double decker bus, red telephone booth, pounds - not dollars, perfectly tousled men's haircuts, skinny jeans, and those accents.
Its easy to forget what a huge city I'm in when public transportation is just so easy. However, I was reminded yesterday when my usual hour journey to central London took 2 hours due to rail replacement services. Because they're upgrading and always working on the Tube I was forced to take a replacement bus to the next Tube stop. Well, this sounds simple until you realize that the Tube is underground and therefore goes in straight lines where straight lines do not exist above ground. It does get exhausting - all that public transportation- but it is so much better than having to drive every where or walk every where. This city is massive and I'm almost afraid I won't discover it all. I'm trying though. It is also difficult when I'm so tired after classes and all I want to do is go home and sleep.
I'm seeing two plays this week. The first one is Troilus and Cressida at the Globe and the second one is Mother Courage at the National Theatre. I'm pretty darn excited about both of these.
This past weekend I was more involved in the day life of London and I'm hoping this weekend to explore the nightlife. We'll see how it goes :)
I'm already planning for my mid-term break! I'll be going to Scotland for a few days and then Ireland for a few days. Both of which I am so excited for. Scotland for my family and Ireland for more fun!
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Its easy to forget what a huge city I'm in when public transportation is just so easy. However, I was reminded yesterday when my usual hour journey to central London took 2 hours due to rail replacement services. Because they're upgrading and always working on the Tube I was forced to take a replacement bus to the next Tube stop. Well, this sounds simple until you realize that the Tube is underground and therefore goes in straight lines where straight lines do not exist above ground. It does get exhausting - all that public transportation- but it is so much better than having to drive every where or walk every where. This city is massive and I'm almost afraid I won't discover it all. I'm trying though. It is also difficult when I'm so tired after classes and all I want to do is go home and sleep.
I'm seeing two plays this week. The first one is Troilus and Cressida at the Globe and the second one is Mother Courage at the National Theatre. I'm pretty darn excited about both of these.
This past weekend I was more involved in the day life of London and I'm hoping this weekend to explore the nightlife. We'll see how it goes :)
I'm already planning for my mid-term break! I'll be going to Scotland for a few days and then Ireland for a few days. Both of which I am so excited for. Scotland for my family and Ireland for more fun!
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Friday, September 11, 2009
My first Friday here!
So, here's the thing. I am exhausted!
We have been constantly on the go and walking (SO MUCH) every day for hours at a time. This is going to be quite the trip!
I'm trying to remember what all we've done... hmm... lets see...
Monday we went to the AHA centre for the first time and had to find our way via Tube! What an adventure that was. Melissa and I made it just fine there. Oh, I feel like I should start back at the beginning... WHOOPS.
The flight over to London was great. My amazing father got me a first class ticket there and back! I was so overwhelmed by how spectacular first class was that I almost started to cry... haha I know, super dorky. I got a little motion sick on the plane, but that's okay. I landed in London and met up with my roommate and we got a minicab to our homestay! We met Alice and she is great. She's German and one of those "food = love" type people. Every morning we eat at least 2 pieces of toast, cereal, and tea. Perfect, right?
Well, so. Monday we went to the center and had some orientation. There was a police officer and he taught us about some London safety. London is actually not a violent place, but there does seem to be quite a bit of pickpocketing. Then Tuesday we had a bit of academic orientation. The classes seem fun and quite easy. This will be quite a relaxed semester compared to Puget Sound. I have one Shakespeare class where we see all the Shakespeare plays at the Globe before it closes and then a play writing class where I see another play every week! My two other classes are both history of London/Britain type classes where we go on walks through London and explore this amazing country. The last few days have been so exciting. We've done a lot and we will be doing way more! I think we're going to Buckingham Palace tomorrow and then I'm meeting up with Jesse and we're going out tomorrow night.
I am exhausted and hungry! I think Melissa and I are about to go get some food and then I'm going to a pub for a pint :) (its legal here, don't worry!)
Cheers!
Kaitlin
We have been constantly on the go and walking (SO MUCH) every day for hours at a time. This is going to be quite the trip!
I'm trying to remember what all we've done... hmm... lets see...
Monday we went to the AHA centre for the first time and had to find our way via Tube! What an adventure that was. Melissa and I made it just fine there. Oh, I feel like I should start back at the beginning... WHOOPS.
The flight over to London was great. My amazing father got me a first class ticket there and back! I was so overwhelmed by how spectacular first class was that I almost started to cry... haha I know, super dorky. I got a little motion sick on the plane, but that's okay. I landed in London and met up with my roommate and we got a minicab to our homestay! We met Alice and she is great. She's German and one of those "food = love" type people. Every morning we eat at least 2 pieces of toast, cereal, and tea. Perfect, right?
Well, so. Monday we went to the center and had some orientation. There was a police officer and he taught us about some London safety. London is actually not a violent place, but there does seem to be quite a bit of pickpocketing. Then Tuesday we had a bit of academic orientation. The classes seem fun and quite easy. This will be quite a relaxed semester compared to Puget Sound. I have one Shakespeare class where we see all the Shakespeare plays at the Globe before it closes and then a play writing class where I see another play every week! My two other classes are both history of London/Britain type classes where we go on walks through London and explore this amazing country. The last few days have been so exciting. We've done a lot and we will be doing way more! I think we're going to Buckingham Palace tomorrow and then I'm meeting up with Jesse and we're going out tomorrow night.
I am exhausted and hungry! I think Melissa and I are about to go get some food and then I'm going to a pub for a pint :) (its legal here, don't worry!)
Cheers!
Kaitlin
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Pre-departure
So, its the Thursday before I leave. I have all of my clothes that I'm taking laid out on my brother's bed waiting to be packed. Why can't I just suck it up and shove all those clothes into my suitcase?! I feel like once I do that then it makes this whole thing real! I will be out of the country and living a whole new life for 3 months! Yes, this is going to be an amazing experience and I am SO excited, but for some reason I am scared out of my mind! Perhaps its been all the dreams I've been having night after night that make London seem like such a foreign land or maybe its just that I like change, but am always afraid to take the first step. Well, here's one giant step!!
London, I will see you in 3 days! Dallas and Tacoma... I will be home before you know it.
Also, real quick. I just want to mention how great my summer was. My job at the Dallas Women's Foundation was amazing. I feel like this summer I was able to show my personality and passion for life whereas last summer that was more difficult. I will truly miss the women there, but life goes on. :) I'm also so happy about the friendships that grew stronger this summer. Something about this summer really brought us closer and I couldn't be happier about it.
Okay, I'm off to hang out with Will for the last time! (YIKES!) I'm thinking breakfast food and maybe a movie? Sounds like the perfect day to me.
More updates to come (probably after arriving in London!)
-- Kaitlin
London, I will see you in 3 days! Dallas and Tacoma... I will be home before you know it.
Also, real quick. I just want to mention how great my summer was. My job at the Dallas Women's Foundation was amazing. I feel like this summer I was able to show my personality and passion for life whereas last summer that was more difficult. I will truly miss the women there, but life goes on. :) I'm also so happy about the friendships that grew stronger this summer. Something about this summer really brought us closer and I couldn't be happier about it.
Okay, I'm off to hang out with Will for the last time! (YIKES!) I'm thinking breakfast food and maybe a movie? Sounds like the perfect day to me.
More updates to come (probably after arriving in London!)
-- Kaitlin
Sunday, March 22, 2009
First blog!
Hi blogging world (also known as the family members I show this to!)
I am going to do my best to keep up with this blog throughout the rest of my college experience as well as, and most importantly, my trip to London, England. I will hopefully learn how to put photos up on here as well as write clever and witty thoughts and ideas about the life I am experiencing.
I find it odd to write to a non-existent audience, however I will most likely get used to and this will turn into my very own super cool blog!
My hopes are that this blog will be an avenue for me to test how how poems or short stories feel typed up and in front of fresh eyes. I also hope that I can give my perspective on what I perceive to be happening around me.
The most exciting part will be London but, this blog can last much longer.
I cannot wait to actually begin this thing! Perhaps I will also put the rest of this semester and summer on here too.
With all my love,
Kaitlin.
I am going to do my best to keep up with this blog throughout the rest of my college experience as well as, and most importantly, my trip to London, England. I will hopefully learn how to put photos up on here as well as write clever and witty thoughts and ideas about the life I am experiencing.
I find it odd to write to a non-existent audience, however I will most likely get used to and this will turn into my very own super cool blog!
My hopes are that this blog will be an avenue for me to test how how poems or short stories feel typed up and in front of fresh eyes. I also hope that I can give my perspective on what I perceive to be happening around me.
The most exciting part will be London but, this blog can last much longer.
I cannot wait to actually begin this thing! Perhaps I will also put the rest of this semester and summer on here too.
With all my love,
Kaitlin.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)