Well everyone, I am home now. Sadly. Do I want to be back in the US of A? Yes and no.
Coming home on a 10 hour flight by myself was possibly the worse time of my life thus far. However, once my plane got to San Francisco (that's right, changed in San Fran. Weird, huh?) it felt strangely relieving to be in your own country. When you are in another one you are always a little up tight. Almost like you need to know where the US Embassy is just in case something happens.
I know my blog has a wide audience, and many of you are wondering, "What's next?". Well, just because I am back in Utah doesn't mean my life is any less interesting. (I hope so anyway) This summer I am doing an internship with Hale Centre Theatre. I will be helping design some of the costumes, but I will mainly be working on hats. The production I am doing this for is The Scarlet Pimpernel.
How would everyone feel if they now followed me around doing that, as well as whatever craziness strolls into my life?
The Scarlet Pimpernel will be playing during the summer of 2009
(yes, we do costumes that far in advance)
So y'all better get tickets to go see it next year to see my hats!!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
When everything is said and done...
Monday, June 2, 2008
Some pictures-not one with me and paul yet, he is being silly. But tomorrow I will make him take one.
Photo 1: Me and the girls having a pajama party. (taken by paul)
Hudds baby!
Sorry for not updating sooner, I have been super tired and super busy.
Huddersfield is even more beautiful than London-and is a whole heck of a lot quieter. The morning that I was leaving for the train station I was in a major panic mode. The tube station was having bad delays, so I ended up having to get a taxi and I got to King's Cross about 15 min before the train left. I was also struggling with my luggage, so I ran and found the conductor and he helped me get all my lugagge in the train.
Once the train left the platform I was a little better, but I was still having a little panic attack from my nerves. Paul called me to make sure I was doing alright and that I made it on the train okay, and that helped me feel a little better. But I lost him when we went under a tunnel and I had bad service, so I resorted to sitting and looking out the window.
Two and a half hours later we pulled into Leeds station. My heart started pounding as I made my way to the front of the train. The conductor told me to do so-he was going to help me get my luggage off again. I am so glad he did.
When I got onto the platform I saw Paul standing in the distance... and my heart started pounding. He noticed me, smiled, waved, and started walking towards me. When he got to me he gave me a huge bear hug and a kiss on the cheek.
There were no awkward moments or anything between us either, we talked the entire train ride to Huddersfield and he made fun of how heavy my lugagge is. He is just as I imagined him as well. He thinks he's so cool, and it just makes me laugh.
Paul arranged for two of his friends, Meg and Totty, to pick us up at the train station. They are the sweetest girls and the three of us are already the best of friends. While in the car we decided we were hungry (I was starving) so we decided to get us some lunch at Subway. We went to a park to eat our lunch, and while there we met up with two of his other friends, Josh and ''Big Ben''. It is so refreshing to be around people my age with my standards after all the riff-raff I had to deal with in London.
After lunch they took me to get some ice cream (ice cream here isn't good-and it tastes almost sour) and we then went to a place called Tower Hill. It's this old watch tower and when at the top you can see all of Huddersfield. After that we went to Totty's house and hung out for a bit. They mainly asked me a ton of questions about Utah and how I have been liking England. For tea we got Chinese food and hung out some more.
Paul and I after tea talked about the family, how Becca is doing, and what the rest of the family is up to. It is really weird but fun to talk to him face to face.
Then we dropped Paul off, and Megan and I went back to her house to sleep. I will be staying with her family since Paul's mum is in the hospital. We can't have us stay alone at his house. Although we wouldn't do anything, it's the appearance of evil. He is enough of a gentleman that he got that all aranged before I even got there. If mum is able to come out of the hospital (and I hope she does) before the week is over, I will go to his house. We might go see her tomorrow.
While at Totty's house we had a spiritual experience. Her dad is out of town and her mum has passed on, so she was also taking care of her little brother. Well, her little brothere happens to have a terrible tooth ache and he was in tears from the pain, so Paul gave him a blessing. It was really neat to see him do that, and the spirit was so strong. It was also nice to be around people who are worthy to just do that in time of need. It's hard to find that back home.
The next day was sunday, and I was so anxious to get to church. It was so refreshing to go to church after missing it for 3 weeks. Honestly it was just like home, but the testimony's are so much stronger. I felt so humbled in their presence, and almost inadequate as a spoiled little Utah girl. It is so funny though, when people hear I am from Salt Lake they badger me with questions about what it's like. They have a very different perspective of what Utah is. They think it is this huge religious place and everyone is a good little mormon, without crime or anything... I almost hated to shatter their bubble.
Meg, Paul, and I were what they call shattered (basically exhuasted) after church, so meg and I cuddled up in her bed and paul slept on the couch while her mum made tea.
Paul came and woke us up when tea was ready. We had shepherds pie with veg and yorkshire pudding. It was so good, and a home-cooked meal! I was estatic! Yorkshire pudding actually tastes like german pancakes, I almost wanted to put some butter and syrup on them. I didn't dare ask what meat they used for the shepherds pie, I just ate it. It was really good though.
Meg has older siblings that are married with young children, and they came over as well. It was really funny. Hyrum, who is about 15 months I believe, took to me for some reason. He sat on my lap, shared my desert of cream and strawberries, and played with me the entire time. His older sister Eliza, who is about 3 I think, did as well. Paul kept giggling at me and my lap full of little kids. They are the cutest little kids, I want to take them home with me.
We then went back over to Totty's house. Us girls talked and did girl stuff in Totty's room while Paul played with her little brother Hugh. It was so much fun to be with girls who are a lot like me. I am going to be so sad to leave them.
Then we watched P.S. I love You and came home and went to bed. I'm not sure what else we are going to do today, they all just plan on taking me to all the sights. I think we are going to a theme park on wednesday as well...
Anyway, I will keep updating. :)
Friday, May 30, 2008
My Last Few Days
I will get a blog up soon, the WiFi at my hostel is having some problems.
In the meantime I am off to pack. I am going to the Blackburn's house tomorrow and I am a little nervous for it.
Once I am there I will get everything updated.
Until then, luvs everyone!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
May 26 and 27 – Adventures of the Dynamic Duo
First off I would like to apologize for not updating sooner. I know I freaked a few people out. And especially to you Dad… don’t worry! I have just been super tired, and avoiding a certain red-headed Irish boy named Andrew (remember him?). I will explain later…
I like being in London practically by myself a lot better. Hilary and I have had the independence to go explore parts of the city we haven’t been to. And the thing I love is that I know the tube system so well now I feel the confidence to go out and explore. I know that seems odd considering I don’t understand the streets at home, but don’t be too impressed. It is all color coated and a 3rd grader could figure it out.
On Monday it was Bank Holiday so nothing was really opened, so Hilary and I got on the tube that was running (only the Circle Line and Hammersmith Line and Half of the Piccadilly Line) and saw where it took us. It was also pouring rain outside the entire day. I swear, when it rains here it RAINS and it never stops!
We ended up getting off Liverpool Street Station-which is a little funny. That is the station we need to get off for the markets we are going to Thursday. I need to remember that, I have to lead the girls to Petticoat Lane.
The streets were empty, so I was really able to see the modern-business center of East London. It is quite different from where I am staying. Here in West London it’s full of old buildings. Hilary and I found a little café that happened to be open. I can’t remember what it was called… but I got Eggs Benedict and it was delicious. I don’t like their bacon here, though. It’s more like fatty, half cooked ham. And their restaurants are weird. When you walk in, no one seats you. You have to go sit down by yourself. And you don’t leave a tip. Also, they charge for water and they charge extra for ice. If you don’t ask for still water, they will give you club soda. You have to be very careful.
We stopped at the Theatre District and bought us tickets to Les Miserable. I am sooooo excited!! We are going to see it tomorrow evening. The tickets were 55 pounds, but I think 110 dollars is worth it for sure. The lady at the box office was a snob though and kept commenting on how weird our addresses were. Whatever, I’M GOING TO SEE LE MIS TOMORROW!!!
After that we found our way back home, made us dinner, packed our souvenirs in boxes, and went to bed.
Today we slept in, took our time to get ready, and slowly made our way to the London Zoo. When we got there, however, we found out it was 17 pounds. I was not about to pay 30 something dollars to see lions and giraffes. If it was cheaper I would have. Instead we walked around the zoo, and honestly we saw most of the animals that way.
After that we decided to get back to the hostel and be lazy.
Carma called us and said they were coming home tomorrow maybe. Who knows? I don’t mind the peace and quiet; they can stay there all they want.
Now, about Andrew… he is the boy that smacked me on the head the first day we were here. I thought he was from Scotland originally, but I have come to learn that he is indeed Irish. Now, this boy has taken a liking to me. And he has very outwardly expressed the fact that he is going to “de-mormon-ize” me by the time I leave London. He also likes to ask me questions about my religion, and then try to prove me wrong about it all.
Now don’t you folks at home worry, Ricky (the manager) knows about him, has told him to not talk to me or he will get kicked out, and I haven’t seen him in a few days. But the night Andrew cornered me and started pounding me with questions… that was scary. I was very confident in my answers, and I think he knew I was making sense about the whole “mormon” thing because he then started making fun of me to the rest of the people in the kitchen. Thankfully my three friends from South Africa told him to stop it and stood up for me, and Hilary was there to back me up and get me out of the situation. It’s so different here.
Now we just joke about me staying away from Andrew. When Carma called earlier she asked me if Andrew had kidnapped me yet. We can joke about it because we know he will never bother me again.
Tonight I made my friends from South Africa some PB&J’s. They never had them before! Crazy, huh!?
P.S. Scotland blog is below…
May 23 – 25 – Men In Kilts and Peter Rabbit
The Scottish country side is even more beautiful. There are century’s old stone walls dividing many, many farms. Within the walls are cows (although much smaller than our cows I noticed), sheep, and horses. It’s also more mountainous in Scotland, albeit their mountains are hills compared to the Rockys. The city Edinburgh itself is much darker than London. All the buildings are made of a much darker stone, so it is all dark charcoal grays and browns. Very gothic, and very beautiful.
When we first got there we checked into a hostel. I am getting really sick of hostels. I will not, however, curse the Astor Kensington under my breath again. Compared to that disgusting hostel in Edinburgh, this hostel in London is a Hilton Hotel! I was so grossed out… I walked to the Starbucks down the street to use the bathroom. A guy from Lithuania (who I must admit was pretty dang cute) shared the room with us. We were paranoid about that, but after we talked to him he turned out to be a nice guy. And nothing was stolen from our suitcases…
He did, however, change right in front of us as if it was nothing… Oh man, it was funny. He just walked in, dropped his pants and took of his shirt. When we girls realized what he was doing and gasped, he turned around in his boxer shorts and said, “Vat?” as if it was nothing. (I say “vat” because his accent sounded very similar to a Swedish accent). He had some pretty nice muscles…
My “groupies” Nyki, Janna, Jessica and I headed out on the town. We decided we were hungry and the first place we saw was Pizza Hut. Their Pizza Hut is not like our Pizza Hut… Theirs is a sit down, full on restaurant. It was really weird, but the pasta was good. And cheap. We then went to some shops, and wandered the streets. While wondering we found a “mountain” called King Arthur’s Throne. A local told us it was a really nice hike and when at the top, you saw the entire city. We decided to give it a shot, but we soon discovered the hike was straight uphill, we had no water, and we were already tired. So we basically made it half way up King Arthur’s Throne—but that half-way view was breath taking. From there you could see the castle, some old watch-towers, and, best of all, the ocean in the distance.
It was gorgeous. We sat up there for about an hour talking and taking “vogue, facebook/myspace worthy” pictures of us. While we were taking our pictures a cute boy walked by and laughed at us. We ended up talking to him for a bit, found out he was from Ireland and was here for some different scenery. He was really nice. When we told him what Utah is like he said he was anxious to get out and experience a desert. I hope he visits one day; that would be cool. He walked down the mountain with us, and at the bottom we parted ways.
We were by that time hungry again. There are pubs everywhere, and we thought it would be fun to check one out. The nice thing with any type of restaurant here is they put the menu outside. We wandered the streets looking at menus until we found one that was reasonably priced. It was called Whiski’s.
Before they seated us they asked for I.D. They guy kept asking Janna if she really was 18. Poor girl. She looks really young like I do.
Pubs are noisy and smell like alcohol, but I found the atmosphere exciting. Here I was, sitting in a real Scottish pub, surrounded by drunken Scots! The food was delicious (I didn’t dare try Haggis… I went for a hamburger). Our waiter was a jerk too. Once he learned we would not be drinking anything except water, he left in a huff. We then got death glares from him the rest of the night. I was a little agitated by that. You can be mad we didn’t order alcohol if you really wish, but you don’t have to express it. Oh well, I was still glad for the experience and it all makes for good memories.
After the pub we decided to risk a night in the hostel… Gross.
I pulled down the comforter to the foot of my bed, tucked my pajama bottoms into my socks, but on my sweatshirt and tied the hood around my head, laid my SLCC blanket across me, and curled up in a ball on the middle of my mattress. And trust me; I was not having a freak-out moment. Everyone was doing that, it was that gross.
The next morning I walked down to Starbucks and got ready in their bathroom again.
Since I was already there, I got a Hot Chocolate and a muffin for breakfast. The other girls soon followed, and we enjoyed a cheap breakfast. All four of us girls then ventured around the city some more. Most of the girls in our group went off to find their family’s plaid. I think that whole thing is really neat, and it makes me wish Woodruff was Scottish. It’s all good though, I bought me a wool blanket in a plaid that looks like Burberry’s. We can just pretend.
We finally made our way to Edinburgh Castle. It is amazing! We didn’t do the tour of inside the castle though—it cost 15 pounds. I am getting a little castled-out and I don’t want to pay $30 for another one. Besides, the outside was good enough for me.
We stopped and got lunch at a cheap little café. I got a quesadilla—and they are nothing like our quesadillas!! It was still really good though.
At 3:30 pm we hopped back onto the train and went down to Windermere. For those of you who do not know where this is, it’s really close to Liverpool. The best part of Windermere is… BEATRIX POTTER!! This is where she grew up, lived, and wrote all the Peter Rabbit books. I was so excited to be there. Every corner was something Peter Rabbit, and I had a flood of childhood memories.
We stayed in a little Condo in the middle of a retirement center. We were laughing when all the old folks gave us weird looks, but it was the nicest place we have stayed yet. And the bed… oh man! Since we are small, Jessica, Janna and I got to sleep in the master room’s bed. For the longest time I slept straight through the night on a comfortable bed and a fluffy pillow.
That day we just did the same thing, wander the streets of Windermere. That place sure is gorgeous though. Everything is green and the streets are narrow with little cottages crammed in between. Perhaps the prettiest part about the trip was walking around the lake. I am not sure what lake lays right by Windermere, but just think the Lake District in England and I am sure you can imagine.
I bought me the whole set of Peter Rabbit books. That’s all I wanted from there.
The rest of the group decided to stay in Windermere for a few days. Carma and Diane booked the Condo for the entire week. After much discussion they decided they would do it. They also decided to travel up to Liverpool for a day, and do some other traveling.
Sounded like a good idea to me, but there was one problem. The girls were going to use the remainder of their days on the BritRail pass. They all got one as a group and I guess accidentally got an 8 day one instead of a 4 day one. Well, I got and 8 day one so I could get to and from Huddersfield. I couldn’t travel with them. So I got Carma’s permission to go back down to London. I would rather be in London where I know the area and have the means to do things than sit at a condo alone all day. Hilary ended up coming with me.
So now it is just Hilary and I in London right now, and I like it better this way almost. I honestly needed a break from some of those girls. A few, of course, are causing drama and I don’t want that. Plus I like it here in London.
Hilary and I made the 4 hour train ride (with 4 train changes as well) back down to London on Sunday just fine. But since it was Sunday, the tube close earlier. And since it was Sunday, the britRail was doing construction so a few of our trains were delayed. And because of all that AND because it was Sunday, we got dropped off nowhere near our hostel. So after wandering the streets at 1am for a little, Hilary and I both broke down to getting a taxi. We figured it was much safer than trying to figure out the busses—especially with all the stabbings going on in London right now. So a nice old man stopped for us, we hoped in, and he took us to our hostel. It only cost 10 pounds, which isn’t bad at all.
So we went to bed, and now we are here together in London enjoying the peace and quiet.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
May 21-22 – Bubba, Wicked, and Mac & Cheese
May 21 –
In the morning, we rushed over to Buckingham Palace to watch the changing of the guard. It was cool-ish. Lots of whistles, lots of music, lots of marching… I honestly didn’t get to see much. After the entire ceremony (that lasted 45 minutes), the guards did march out of the palace gates right past me. I got some cool recordings of that.
After that we were pretty much free for the day. All the rest of the girls decided to use a day on their BritRail passes and go out to Windsor Castle. I really wanted to go with them, but I have to save my days so I can get up to Hudds. I was disappointed, but that will just give me an excuse to come back to England one day!
Instead Nykole and I decided to go to Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Circus. We needed to find her a warm coat for our trip to Scotland this weekend. It’s still in winter-like temperatures up there. We went to a store called Lillywhites. It’s basically their version of Cabellas or Dicks. We found her the cutest wool peacoat for only 18 pounds! I also found myself a soccer jersey for 16 pounds. I was so excited for it!
After that we walked around the streets for a bit. This is a really posh part of London, so we made sure we dressed like the Europeans to fit in.
After that Nykole and I went back to the hostel and made us a dinner of chicken and veggie stir-fry. It was delicious. Most of the people staying here were going to the Pub to watch a footie match, and they wanted Nykole and me to come. When we both told them we don’t drink they laughed at us and walked away, saying we were crazy. My heart bleeds for the people here. All they do is party all night and bum off in the hostel all day. What kind of life is that? Now we are known as the “Team Boring America”. I was a little bugged by that at first, but I have come to realize that it’s me who is better in the long run. I am just so glad my lifestyle isn’t like theirs.
After our lovely dinner, me and Nyki got all (as we call it) “vogue-d up” for Wicked. We put on our dresses we bought earlier, did out hair and makeup all cute, accessorized European style, took “vogue” pictures of us, and headed off for the theatre to meet our group.
Oh… my… goodness… WICKED IS AMAZING!! The costumes were brilliant, the actors were awesome… I want to go back. We had really good seats tool. We were about 6 rows from the front. It was perfect, I saw everything.
The other girls looked at Nyki and I weird at first for getting dressed up, but once we got inside the theatre and they realized everyone was dressed nicely, they felt uncomfortable. Also 2 of the girls (the ones that are always complaining) were being really immature the entire play. All they did was talk about how the hate plays; this was a waste of money, blah blah blah… They wouldn’t even clap or anything. So immature. I was really bugged by that. Why are some people so closed minded like that? I wish I could take them by the neck and knock some sense into them.
One of the most important things I am beginning to learn out here is that everyone has their own rhythms and opinions. And in order for you to keep your own rhythm, you must consider everyone else’s. I know those girls might not like theatre, but they could have at least been more mature about it all. They ARE 25 after all, you’d think they weren’t so stupid.
May 22-
Today we went to the National Gallery, National Portrait Museum, and British Museum. They were really neat and I loved looking at all the Kings and Queens, but I am really starting to get museum-ed out. I am so tired physically as well and I am getting to the point of being a zombie. I can’t enjoy museums anymore. I just wander through them mindlessly.
I did get a cute children’s book today at the National Gallery. It’s a story of 2 children walking around the sights of London. I can show my kids one day.
I am going to Scotland this weekend and leaving at 7am tomorrow morning. I won’t be able to have my computer once again, so you will get another big update on Monday-ish.
I can’t believe this trip is almost half-way over already. I am so sad; I don’t want to leave London. (But I DO want my bed and shower though…)
I love all the girls that are in my room. We are all getting to be close friends. We always have a hoot in our room together. We decided we are going to make a movie and re-create some of the funniest things that have happened to us here. I hope we will really get the chance to do it. We also made up nicknames for each other.
Corissa = Bubba
Janna = Bubba Junior
Jessica = Wendy Darling (aka always-hit-my-head-on-the-lamp)
Kim = Diva
Hilary = Jester
Nykole = Repunzel (she has really, really, really long hair)
We are just so cool.
Some funny inside jokes to remember:
~I hope V8 will sponsor a vegetable!
~White people taste like Mac & Cheese!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
May 20 - Bloody Sights
Picture 1 = Tower Bridge
It was so cool.
But before that we went to the Old Operating Theatre. For those of you who don’t know, that theatre has been around since Shakespeare’s time. In fact, that was his theatre and where he put on all of his plays for royalty and peasants alike.
It isn’t the actual theatre, it burned down twice I think. I’m not sure when the first time it burned, but the second time it burned was around 1610. It has been around ever since, however. The seats are tiny. People back then were so small. It was pretty cool though.
Some of the girls were bored, but for a self-proclaimed thespian, such as myself, I was in awe the entire time.
The gift shop was also amazing, but way over priced. I was too cheap to get anything.
After that we went to the Towers.
On our way there we crossed the London Bridge. It was so funny, at the exact same time Hillary, Kim, Janna, Jessica and I broke out into “London Bridge is falling down…!”. You can’t help but sing it though.
It was also freezing because we were right by the Thames River, and a cold breeze was blowing. That river is the dirtiest river I have ever seen. It stunk too.
To get to the towers we also crossed the Tower Bridge. Back in even the 1700’s they hung the heads of traitors on the top of the arcs. The bridge is so clean and white, it was hard to imagine the horrible things you would have seen crossing that bridge a couple hundred years ago.
The towers were pretty neat. The best part was our tour guide. They have the Yeoman of the Guard (beefeaters) be tour guides. Our guy was hilarious. I was laughing hysterically the entire time. He made the tour even better. I recorded him so you guys can see how funny he was.
Those towers were so eerie. Even more so then Westminster Abbey. Probably because here is where they kept prisoners, tortured people, and did thousands of beheadings. It was pretty creepy.
The Yeoman live there because their sole purpose is to protect the Crown Jewels. Our guard straight out told us there are many, many ghosts there. He told us there isn’t one day that goes by where you don’t see a ghost. Wouldn’t that be creepy!?
They had the armor of King Henry VIII (is that the 8th…?) as well. He was a big guy! And fat! And, oh my goodness, his cog piece (if you catch my drift…) made me laugh. In order to make himself look more “masculine” (you know, to boost his already huge ego) he had it exaggerated for his armor. …VERY exaggerated…
I guess that shows I am still immature because I just sat there laughing at it. But then again, everyone who walked by was snickering.
We then saw the Crown Jewels!!! I was drooling… every girl was drooling…
What was so amazing though was how old those crowns were. They had Edward the Confessor’s crown, Elizabeth I’s crown… It amazes me they still have them.
There is so much history here, and I love being surrounded in it.
Paris blog is also done. I made this one short—or tried to at least—because that one was a novel. I can guarantee you will enjoy reading it though.
Sweet dreams!
Monday, May 19, 2008
May 17 - 19 - B.O. and Magnificance
Ah… Paris...
I have one thing to say prior to my tales of adventure—I wish I knew more French! It is not easy being somewhere that doesn’t speak the same language. Especially when you are trying to get somewhere. It was quite an experience, and I know I grew a lot from it.
The morning we left was only the beginning of a crazy, crazy weekend. We left the hostel at 2:45 am sharp to catch a bus. Diane had printed instructions to get there off the internet, but they soon proved to be confusing. We asked a few bus drivers if these were correct directions, and each told us differently. The few people (who were drunk) that were lagging around London at 3 am told us differently… we had no idea what to do. We finally began to wander the streets of London, desperately trying to figure out what to do. Finally we waved down this taxi.
He told us he wouldn’t take 9 girls in one cab, but Diane told him our situation and he thankfully agreed to pile us all in. He was a cool guy too, made jokes the whole way. We were all laughing the entire way.
When we got to the airport, security only permitted us one carry on. No purse, nothing. So we quickly shoved anything we could into every nook of each other’s purses. I don’t know how we did it, but we did and we made it to our flight barely on time.
When we first got to Paris we felt dazed and confused. French, everywhere… Suddenly all these French men came running to us saying, “You need ride? I have van.” We had no choice, so we found someone who spoke English, they confirmed those men worked with the airport and wouldn’t kidnap us, and we got in a van.
We arrived at our little villa, and we were taken away. It was gorgeous. It lay right along the river, and was secluded from the busy streets. When we got to the apartment we were all so tired we crashed. I had a nice nap for a few hours, and then Janna, Jessica, Kim and I decided to go explore Paris.
Thankfully Kim knows a little French, so thanks to her and all the maps, we found our way to the Arc De Triumphe. I was in awe the entire time. We walked around the streets of Paris for a few hours, rather aimlessly too. We had no idea where we were going.
We eventually decided we should find out where we were, so we started asking for people who spoke English. Many French people are rude, and they will flat out give you a nasty look and keep walking. We were so frustrated. Right when we all felt we were about to cry and be lost forever in Paris, out of nowhere two girls speaking English walked past us. We literally ran after them.
Turned out these girls were actually from Arizona on a tour similar to ours. We were so happy to find friends, so we stuck with them awhile. We went to the Louis Vuitton store—holy cow, 5 floors—and observed all the rich French. Then, of course, out of nowhere a huge clap of thunder sounded and rain came pouring down. And no exaggeration—it was pouring. The rain drops were huge! We decided to stay in Vuitton’s store while we waited for the rain to let up a bit (we did not mind that at all either).
Once it started to let up a little bit, we parted ways with the Arizona girls and ran off into the rain.
We were also starving at that point, so we decided to find food. Although euro’s exchange is cheaper then pounds, everything in France is expensive. After searching through cafés and restaurants, we finally gave up and found a McDonalds. And believe it or not, their McDonalds there are sooo good! Their burgers are like the ones you get at a sit down restaurant, but they have a dollar (or euro) menu and everything. They also put a different cheese on their cheeseburgers. It isn’t cheddar, it’s some sort of white cheese—but it is really good. Their ice cream is also thick and creamy, not the cheap watered down stuff we have. I got a kid’s menu, so I have some freaky toy. I thought it was a cool souvenir, but I have no idea what it is.
Something interesting, they don’t have Ronald McDonald as their symbol there. They have some burger-person thingy. I will have to show you, it’s all over my toy.
After that we all decided to wander down the streets and find a museum to go to. It had stopped raining by then, but we were all soaked and the paved sidewalks were really slick from the water. We kept sliding everywhere.
We finally found one museum—the National Gallery. And guess what the exhibit was….
MARIE ANTOINETTE!!
It was ah-ma-zing as well. It included all the paintings and statues of her, the furniture from her bedroom and summer cottage, some of her personal items (like her combs, nail kit, etc) and tons of other things. It was so cool. I just wish I could read French; all the signs were in French so I couldn’t read about any of the stuff. Thankfully their words are close enough that I could get the jist of it.
After the museum it decided to poor on us again. So, yet again, we found ourselves in another designer store. This time it was Gucci. It wasn’t quite as big as the Vuitton store, but it was still 3 floors. The whole time I couldn’t help but think, “I want my name to be that big one day…”
Once it let up enough to walk again, we ran for it to the nearest tube station. We were soaked, but I liked it. I didn’t get to shower the 3 days we were there, so I was hoping that would help a little. Course we just smelled like B.O. and fit right in with the French anyway.
When we got back to our cute little apartment (after quite an interesting time figuring out the metro), we were so tired we all crashed again. It was about 10 pm by then.
The next morning we didn’t wake up until 11 am—but it felt so good to get that sleep. I know I needed it. I did wake up with a huge back ache though. I couldn’t move until I did some very painful yoga stretches. This whole trip has been putting quite the strain on my back and shoulders. I am not kidding when I say I need a major massage when I get home.
Anyway, so, that day we decided to take the metro and get off my Notre Dame. That place is beautiful. We didn’t go inside because it cost about 20 euro’s, but I was just fine with that. Instead we did some shopping at the many stands on the streets.
Those shops are so much fun. They have artists selling their paintings, old books, clothes, all the usual souvenir items, and anything else you could think of. As I was gazing all the local artist’s prints, I saw one that really caught my eye. It was so unique and so beautiful, I couldn’t pass it up. I asked the artist how much, and he told me 25 euro. I only had 15 euro’s on me in cash, so I was really disappointed. But that cute little man must have seen how much I loved that print because he said in a very horrible French accent, “But for you, pretty lady, special price; now 15 euro because you love it.” I was so happy; I could have given him a big hug. The B.O. and last night’s alcohol on his breath is what stopped me from doing it. I have it all securely wrapped up, and I can’t wait to get home to frame it and show you how beautiful it is.
After we were happy with our shopping, we decided to walk along the… oh shoot… whatever that river is that runs through the middle of Paris (we called it the Ratatouille River the whole time—so just think of that movie) towards the Eiffel Tower. Now if you look at a map, the distance between Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower is about 6 miles. We could have taken the metro right to it, but we all agreed it would be more adventurous walking there.
It took us about 3 and half hours to walk that far, but it was worth it. The streets of Paris are gorgeous. On our way there we stopped at the Marche Duex Fluers (Walk of the Flowers or something). Remember back to old movies based in Paris when you see the actors walking amongst miles and miles of flower shops? That’s what Marche Duex Fluers is exactly. It was gorgeous, and so indescribably amazing to absorb French culture. I preferred the 6 mile walk; I will never forget that walk.
By this time it was 7pm, and I we were hungry. However, the French culture is very family oriented, so only little tourist shops and small food markets are open on Sundays. All other major stores are closed, and any café or restaurant close around 5 pm. So… we didn’t know what to do about food. We finally found a little grocery store that was open, so we bought Laughing Cow cheese, a loaf of bread, and a French pastry for each of us.
Once we got closer and closer to the Eiffel Tower I got so excited. I couldn’t believe it… I was going to actually see the Eiffel Tower in my lifetime. And then, lo and behold, there it was in all its glory in front of me. It was magnificent-and HUGE! And so incredibly romantic.
Around the 4 corners there are carnival games, food stands, etc. In the middle there is music playing and you can see couples dancing. On the benches around it are couples everywhere.
It’s crazy how an odd shaped tower is so amazing, but there is just something that is so romantic about it. I kept thinking about Paris When It Sizzles and other old movies the entire time I was there.
The best part about it, however, was when it got dark. As soon as the sun set, they turned on the lights. That was breath taking! The entire tower appeared as if it were sparkling. I just sat in awe. It almost seemed like it was a dream as I sat under the Eiffel Tower eating my dinner of bread and cheese.
We then found a metro station (at this point I had become an expert at it. Trust me; I am so proud of myself. I know how the French subway works!) and I found how we could get back home.
Once again we crashed. This time it was around 12 am when we got home. I was so tired after all the walking we did, but it was completely worth it.
The next morning we got everything packed up, and came back home to London.
It’s so funny, we just call London home now. I wish it were my home…
Friday, May 16, 2008
May 16 - Romans and Rocks
Today was amazing! But I have been in tears for the past hour about it. My camera is a (excuse my french) peice of shit and decided to erase every picture I have taken--and I had almost 200. I am so upset about the whole thing... I don't know what I am going to do.
We went to Bath to see the spa's the Roman's built back in BC time. They were so cool to look at.
I had some really neat pictures of the baths, and me standing under an old aquaduct. But they are gone.
We then went to Jane Austen's house. I felt so priviledged to stand in her bedroom where she wrote most of her books.
I had a picture of her room. I had a picture of me standing next to this man in period costume. They are gone.
Next we went to Stonehenge.
I got a picture of me standing right next to stonehenge, along with many other pictures of the rocks. Gone.
Me at Piccadilly Circus--gone.
Me wearing a corset and hoop skirt--gone.
Parliament - Gone.
Me and Big Ben - Gone.
All the english country side - Gone.
Windsor Castle - Gone.
Everything is gone.
If you excuse me, I am going to go back to my room and contine to cry now. I don't feel like writing about anything else.
Goodnight.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
May 15 - Swollen Feet
Today was a blast, but my feet are killing me and I am sooo tired. I wonder if I will ever get used to this time zone, or if I will have jet lag for a month.
I still haven’t eaten blood pudding Dad. I did, however, have a Cornish Pasty (or is it Pastie?), and it was divine!! I also think I am finally starting to figure out the tube, but I still have no idea what direction is what yet here.
People really do not like us here. As soon as they hear my accent, realize I am American, and ask what state I am from, they brush me off. I think it’s really interesting they do that. Also people were camping outside the House of Parliament today protesting Bush and the War in Iraq. I laughed about that—even in England they protest Bush!!
The first thing we did today we go to Westminster Abbey. Once again, you can’t take pictures inside. I really wish I could have though. It is gorgeous outside, but as soon as you walk inside it’s a completely different feeling. It’s breath-taking. It’s a cathedral too, so there are glass-stained windows everywhere. It’s also full of marble statues carved right into the walls. And the tombs… oh my goodness, they are amazing!!
It’s a really eerie feeling to be surrounded by so many dead people. It was so strange, the air in there has a different feel to it and it’s hard to breath. That may be because there were a thousand other people in there—but I think the thought that it’s from all the history and dead you are surrounded by is a cooler explanation. Every corner and every nook is packed with either a coffin, or statue remembering someone. Even people are buried under you, so the floors are covered with “under here lays so-and-so”.
To think how old some of those coffins were (some were from 1000’s), and how many people were buried there—it’s so hard to fathom. I am so curious if there are spirits there. I have no doubt you can see many, many ghosts in that place. I was tempted to ask one of the clergymen that were floating around if they ever see spirits of kings or queens.
My favorite tombs/coffins:
Queen Elizabeth I
Mary Queen of Scots
Edward the Confessor
Jane Austen
Charles Darwin
Next we went to the House of Parliament. We didn’t get to see anything with the House of Lords; for some reason they wouldn’t let us. We did sit in on a debate with the House of Commons about Anti-Semitism. Honestly I was bored and I didn’t understand what was going on.
Sadly since I am American and cannot be trusted, I only got to see the front hall inside Parliament. That front hall was boring, empty, and only consisted of stone walls, a little tourist shop, and a line to wait in. I wish I could have seen more inside the building.
After that we could do as we pleased. So, of course, Nykole, Jana, Jessica and I went shopping! We figured out how to get to Piccadilly Circus via the tube. We went everywhere! My favorite store we went to was H&M. I bought me the cutest dress there; I can’t wait until I can get home and show it off.
Everyone in London wears silk scarves with their outfits. It’s a trend that hasn’t made it to the US yet, and I love it. I stopped at this little stand and bought me a few cute scarves (and a few for gifts as well). That way I can be ahead when I get home. :)
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
May - 14 Wild, Wild London
Today was great. And once again, computer problems so please excuse the typos. I am using my teacher's computer and I want to hurry while using it.
We got to sleep in today, I didn't get up until 11:00 am. It felt great, although I am still jet-lagging. It's weird, I feel dizzy and sorta out of wack. I hope I will get used to this soon.
First we went to the London Museum. It was really cool. It basically was the history of London and had a lot of amazing artifacts. I got to see some suits of armor, coffins, and even Henry VIII's bed! That was pretty sweet. They were pretty short back then...
Outside of the museum was an actual wall the Roman's built. I took a ton of pictures. The wall was gorgeous, you could tell it is thousand's of years old. My favorite part about it (and for all of London basically) is the contrast between buildings. That roman wall was in the center of all these new, very modern looking office buildings. Gorgeous contrast.
Next we went to Bartholomew's Hospital. For those of you who don't know, it is the oldest running hospital in the history of the world. It was also the place that mainly took care of people durng the Black Plague.
Some of the instruments they used for operation are so scary looking. Thank goodness for modern medicine!
Next we went to St. Paul's Cathedral for Evensong (evening worship). No offence, but the Catholic religion is really sorta weird in some aspects. It was truly amazing though! An all men's choir sang during the sermon. They gave me goosebumps. The little boys were so cute too.
It is simply breath taking in their as well. Unfortunately they do not allow you to take pictures, so I reccommend you to google what it looks ike inside. Every corner has a marble statue, and every inch of the ceiling was painted in gorgeous murals. The stained-glass windows illuminated off the walls and made the whole place sparkle. It was magical, I wish you could have been there to see it with me.
The men here are divine too. Most have good teeth, but they definitely are not white. What makes them so gorgeous is how gentlemanly they are. And their clothes... oh man! Every grungy, American man needs to come over here and take a lesson from a british man. Then perhaps they would have better success with girls! ;)
Four of the girls in our group will not do anything with the rest of us. I am getting really annoyed with them. Whatever we do they only sit there and complain, and every chance they get they run off. I'm alright because Hillary, Kim, Jana, Jessica, Nykole, and I have a blast together. I just hate how some people are so stuck up and are so closed minded. I want to smack them upside the head.
Alright, sleeping now. Please leave me some loving, I need it. I am starting to get homesick. And girls! My lovely sisters! Leave me some comments, I want to hear from you!
Loves
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
May 13 - Jet Lag to the Max
Sorry guys, no pictures today. I am having problems I wish I had thought of before hand. And while I am on that subject, Mom I have an assigment for you. My laptop plug has 3 prongs, my converter only 2 prongs. See the problem here? Would you do me the favor and look around for one asap with 3 prongs? I will look here as well. My laptop is totally dead and I am using the £2 worth of internet time they gave me.
I would appreciate that.
If not my south african friend has one he told me I can borrow.
And in light of the situation I am sad that I will have to hurry and type all my thoughts down. Please disregard the vague details and typos. I will do my best. :)
So, a few things about London. You only see really nice, luxury cars on the roads. The reason is London is so expensive, only the rich can afford them. I have only see one Chrysler town and country van, they do not have any sort of truck, and you see tons of yaris's (although the body is a little different) and malibus. They also don't have speed limit signs anywhere, and cars whiz by. They also do not yeild to pedestrians or stop at red lights. I will be lucky if I get out of London not being squashed like a pancake! I get so confused and I look the wrong way before I cross the street too. They even have signs that say "Look Left" or "Look Right", but I... I dunno... I'm retarded.
Dad, don't worry about the strangers. And I haven't seen that red-headed boy again. Calm down. :)
They have this crazy thing here called CCTV. I don't know what it stands for exactly, but it basically means there are camera's everywhere. The police are always watching you, and it's a little creepy.
Today I did some really fun things. First we went to the Victoria and Albert Museum (I think that's what it's called, it says V&A everywhere...). It is basically a huge art museum. And when I say huge, I mean HUGE!! It is inside an old castle, so you can imagine how big it is. I hurried and saw as much as I could. It was amazing! It was so cool to actually see prints from the medieval times I have only seen in text books.
I also got to see some Knight's Armour and dresses actual Queens wore. They also had all these roman statues everywhere. I was in heaven.
Next we went to the Natural History Museum. It's honeslty not as exciting and looks like every other natural history museum in the US. The only difference were, the museum only had dinosaur bones from the europe area (no raptors or triceratops). I honestly had more fun watching all the school groups with kid's in their cute little unifroms walking around following their instructor. They are soooo cute!! I want to try and take a picture of a school group, but I don't want a lawsuit showing up.
We then went to the Science Museum. I wasn't to interested either. They mainly had models of old trains and cars. They did have the first correct model built of DNA there (I forget the scientist's name, but I am sure you know rebecca). I took pictures. :)
Next we went to..... HARRODS!!!
Oh my holy cow, I wish I had a million pounds to go spend there. They have all the designers, and the most gorgeous clothes. I bought me the cheapest thing I could find there (I will show you when I get home), but my friend Kim found a Peter Rabbit doll there for £19.95, and I am tempted to go back and get me one too if I can't find a cheaper one when we go to the Beatrix Potter museum in a few days.
The most expensive items I found:
Prada shoes = £650 (about $1500) - they were ugly too
Chanel Sequin Dress (in rainbow colors!!) = £1500 ($3000)
The bathrooms in Harrods are crazy!! My friends and I waited to go to the bathroom until we got there. We were curious. They are huge, and way nice. They have a lady standing there to direct you to the next available toilet. She then watches you wash your hands, hands you a towel, and then waits for a tip. Then they put a silver platter infront of you with a variety of designer perfumes, and sprays the one of your choice on you. You are then rewarded with a ice-cold cup of water. And all that just to go to the bathroom!
They also have a shrine for Princess Diana in the ladies department. No kidding. I took pictures and laughed hysterically about it all.
After that we walked back to the hostel. We were all pooped. Major jet lag.
Hillary and I decided we wanted some good, wholesome food, so we walked down to the Sansburys supermarket and bought stuff for hamburgers. And yes, believe it or not, I helped! (I sliced the tomatoes and onions and cooked the corn on the cob). I also found "American Style Cookies" and bought me some. :) Their cookies here are more like a hard biscuit.
They also have flap jacks everywhere. They aren't pancakes though, they are almost like a rice crispy treat made from oats. They do put syrup on them though, and i habe seen some with whipped cream.
They don't have garbage cans anywhere on the streets because people but bombs in them. If you need to throw something away you have to go inside somewhere and ask for their "litter basket". They also won't know what you are talking about if you ask for the bathroom. You have to ask for the "water closet".
When we sat down to eat our hamburgers the other british kids in the kitchen were laughing at us and our "typical american meal". According to them we should eat their food. They may be right, but I am sticking to as much american as I can get away with. Everyone here is cordial to us, but we all know they hate us. They also tease us ruthlessly and we are frequently looked at as if we are freaks. It's a fake sort of cordial, and I honestly don't blame them. We are spoiled. 2 days in and I already can see how spoiled we are.
I love our hostel. It's a freaking maze though! I always get lost! They have a community kitchen that everyone can use. Thankfully it is basically clean, and everyone has to do their own dishes. The enviroment here is so chill, i love it. The walls are adorned with pictures of The Beatles, Mick Jagger, Bob Marley, and other stuff along those lines. Think The Pie as a hostel, and there you have Astor Kensington (minus that much writing on the walls-although it is getting close).
Tomorrow we are going to the giant British Museum and I can't wait for that.
Please see if you can find anything for my laptop. I am really disappointed about it. I will keep my eyes open too, there are little tourist shops everywhere over here.
Well it is 10 pm here now and I am beat and still need to shower, so I am going to go take my meds and try to get some sleep. I am not excited for that public shower...
And P.S. my shoulders kill. I am going to need one major massage when I get home, just to warn y'all. Anyone who is willing?
Hugs and loves, goodnight!
Monday, May 12, 2008
May 11 - May 12 Flight Extravaganza
The first thing I saw in London... The bathroom The view from my window2. Gross airplane food + high altitudes = bad, bad heartburn for Corissa
3. American men wear grungy sweats on planes, British men wear button down shirts, slacks, and matching oxford shoes (and manage to not gain one wrinkle on their finely-pressed shirts while sleeping on a 10 hour flight).
4. Corissa and airplanes do not mix. Period.
Anyway, I am having some major jet lag right now. I need sleep badly. I will update tomorrow. We are going to a lot of cool museums!
Love you all, sweet dreams.
Friday, April 18, 2008
My Dream Boutique
Sunday, April 13, 2008
A Friendly Tribute
Today as I sat at my friends farewell and realized how few friends I have at home still, it occurred to me how blessed I am. I have so many friends who have helped me along the way, and I want you all to know how much I appreciate you.
Here is a thank you to the greatest people I know, and the biggest influences on my life:
Go ahead and scroll to your name. Did I forget you? A million apologies. Let me know asap.
My Family:
Of course you guys are first!
Mom, you are my best friend. I know in my teenage years we didn't get along that well, but I promise everything is starting to click. As I am slowly pushing my way out into the real world the light bulb that says, "Mom was right!" is always clicking on. Can you believe I am almost 20!? Yea, I can't either. But thank you for your friendship, your advice on boys, your tears we have shared, and everything else. I can't believe how hard you work. I hope I can be a mom like you someday. Also the fact that we work together makes everything easier. I love how you are only a few desks away when I am having a problem... or I am bored... or I want to complain...
Dad, I have always been a Daddy's girl--and I always will be. I love how we are so much alike and we can go hang out somewhere like we are friends. Thanks for listening to my endless complaints about boys and how stupid they are. And thank you for putting up with all the estrogen (although you know you love it!). Although I am all big now, I will always be your little girl--the one you can turn to for laughs and parental advice (which I love when you do that).
Alishia, I know we have our ups and downs, but in spite of that all I love the bond we have. I think our problem is we are more alike than we realize, but we let our few opposites grind at each other. But I love you, and I love all the secrets we share and the good times we have. I know when we are older with our own families we will be calling each other up to talk, and I can't wait for that day. (Well I can... you know what I mean)
Rebecca, you are having a hard time right now, and I want you to listen (or really intently read) what I am going to tell you. I know what you are going through. While my problems never reached as far as you, they were pretty dang close. There are a few things I have learned throughout the years. Girls are beochs. Boys are idiots. Kids are cruel. But when you grow up and you get into college, those people will not matter. What matters is you, the amazing, bubbly person you are, and those who love you. I was called pizza-face once; I know how bad it hurts. Trust me when I tell you they don't matter. I am always here for you, as is our Savior. I love you, He loves you, the whole family loves you, and that is all you need to be truly happy in life.
Bethany, I love you. When I get home from work and you run out to my car to greet me, it makes me so happy inside. Don't ever think you don't belong in our family. I can only imagine how hard it is to grow up in an adult world--but our family wouldn't be the same without you. You bring everyone so much joy and happiness. You are beautiful. I love to watch you, you remind me so much of myself. I love our dates, our sleepovers, our play times, our cuddle times... you make me so happy. Never forget that.
Now on to the friends...
Jeremy
I don't know where I would be without your friendship. You have always been there for me--whether I was crying, mad and throwing things around, frustrated and practically tearing my hair out, or being my weird nerdy self. I am so thankful for that. I don't deserve someone as amazing as you, but I am so glad you are by my side. Thank you for everything. I can truly say I have never felt so happy and loved when around you. We are a match made in heaven, and I love you. Thanks for telling me I am beautiful when you saw me that one day during FCCLA. You know... when you woke up and I had bad morning breath, mascara under my eyes, hair everywhere... I never forgot that day. That was the day I saw you differently--that day I started to love you. Keep going strong, you are an amazing missionary. I am right here beside you. Only a little time left!!
Pam
Man girl, we are too cool for words. I know in high school we went through our stupid drama crap--but the point is that now we look back and can't remember what the heck we were fighting about! I love how we can laugh about that. Thank you for being there for me, especially when I am having one of my little freak-out moments. Thanks for staying home and knitting with me on the weekends, and being my temp boyfriend while Jeremy is gone. Also thank you for yelling at me when I don't go to school, and helping me with last minute speeches I don't remember about. I know I can count on you to take care of me.
Paul
My little English boy, what would I do without you!? You have always been there for me throughout the years (like... 5 now!). Isn't it crazy we have never met, but we have been the best of friends via letters and the internet for so long? There has to be a reason we met, and I think it's because we both needed to know we have that extra support an ocean away.
Tyler Rains
Oh boy... where to start!? Well, I wouldn't have passed photo class in high school without you. I wouldn't have anyone to complain to. And I certainly wouldn't have crazy nights full of poisonous popcorn dumped on my head, or nights of eating little octopuses (eww...), and definitely wouldn't have someone to fill up my tires when they only have 5 pounds of pressure in them (and I am too dumb to realize). Basically, what would I do without you!? You are the best. Thanks for everything, dude. I will be sure to remind you not to be an ASStrovan parent one day--and I am still counting on this trip we are planning.
Luary
I mean it when I say I am hiring you as a cook when I am married. You are amazing. I can always count on you to make me feel better, and I know I always have you to go shopping with. Can you believe we aren't in 2nd grade anymore!? Everyday we are getting older, fatter, and lazier. But I wouldn't want to get old, fat and lazy with anyone else!
Kyle
Do you remember back in middle school when we would make all those stupid videos, or lounge on my couch all day and eat food? Yup, still love doing that with you. Without you I wouldn't have kinky moments, and I would never get a massage. I am sorry for not listening to your advice about a certain boy in high school. I see my mistake now, and I will be sure to never make it again. Thank you for always being there best friend.
Owen
My favorite memory is when we had crushes on each other when we were juniors, but you were too scared to do anything about it. Oh man... young love! Thank you for all you do. You are just too cute, and I love you to death. You are such a lady killer, Blue Eyes. And boney... you just wait, we will fatten you up! ;] Don't ever change, you are amazing. You always have a good attitude and I have always loved that about you.
Brixton
You make me laugh. The end. You are such a pimp, and I love it. My life wouldn't be complete without you. We fell out for a bit in high school, and although I have never really understood what happened, I am so glad we are chill again now. I realize now how immature we were in high school... aren't you so glad that blasted place is over with in our lives!? You are meant to be here to do great things, and I can't wait to watch you do them.
Cody
My cute little Cody! You are a junior now! I can't believe how much you are growing up! I just love you to death. You and your cute little butt, your cute coordinated clothes, and your cute perfect hair... you are such a pimp. And my advice to you Cody, WORK IT!! You own it kid! I am so glad you will still be here to play with me while all the other guys are gone on missions. I would die of boredom--literally--without you.
David Guzman
Yo, kid? How you doing gangsta? I would not have survived orchestra without you! I can't believe we have grown up together. Seems like yesterday we were nerdy little 3rd graders running around at recess. I will never forget you--and I will especially never forget you are the reason I stopped playing soccer. It's all good though; there just wasn't enough room on the field for both of us. We are just too cool like that.
Mr. Christopher Baldwin
You are too cool for words. I can't wait to get out to England and be your sober buddy! Thanks for being such a great friend. You are always there for me and you are always there to listen to my sorrows. I don't know what I would do without you--especially when I am bored at work and I need someone to talk to!
(Patience... more coming soon :])
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Itinerary
May 11 - Leave SLC
May 12 – Arrive @ Heathrow
-Hotel check-in
-Purchase travel passes
-Review activities for the week
-Bus tour
May 13 –
-Museum of London
-St. Bartholomew’s
-St. Paul’s Cathedral @ 5:00 pm for Evensong
May 14 –
-House of Parliament
-Big Ben
-Westminster Abbey
-Jewel Tower
May 15 –
-Victoria & Albert Museum
-Science Museum
-Natural History Museum
-Harrod’s Department Store
May 16 –
-Day trip to Stonehenge & Bath
-Windsor Castle
May 17 – 18 Scotland
-Stay @ bed and breakfast
*See sights
May 19 –
-St. Martin’s in the Field & lunchtime concert
-West End Walk
*Leicester
*Covent Garden
*Piccadilly Circus
May 20 –
-Trafalgar
*National Gallery
*National Portrait Gallery
May 21 –
-Buckingham Palace
*Changing of the Guard @ 11:30 am
-St. James’ Park
-Tate Britain
May 22-
-Guy’s Hospital & Pathology Museum
-Old Operating Theatre
May 23 –
-British Museum
-Eastbourne
*White Cliffs
*Seaside Fair
*The Beach
May 24 – 25 PARIS!!
-Stay @ bed and breakfast
-Eiffel Tower
-Musee D’orsay
-French Café
May 26 –
-Broad (Broadwick) Street Pump Walk
-Expedition to Vintage & Thrift Stores
*Brick Lane
*Spitalfields
*Petticoat Lane
-Hyde Park
*Peter Pan Statue
May 27 –
-Greenwich
-National Maritime Museum
-Observatory
-Nautical Walk
-Queen’s House
May 28 –
-Tower Bridge
-Tower of London
-West End Play – Matinee
-Fashion and Textile Museum
May 29 –
-Florence Nightingale Museum
-Imperial War Museum
-Jubilee Garden
-London Eye
May 30 –
-Farewell Dinner
-Final activity?
-Pack
May 31 –
-Bus to Huddersfield
-Footy Tournament?
May 31 – June 9
-Who knows? I’ll just be chilling with all my friends!!
June 9 - Arrive back in SLC
