My Wonderful Day at Stonehenge

Stonehenge: I learned about it in Ron Morris' class at Bevill State in Hamilton. It was more than just a pile of rocks to me; it was about how time could be told; it was their calendar, their winter and summer solstice. Most of all, it was just plain cool! We walked to the Tube Station that morning, and then took the bus (or was it the other way around...) Anyway, we had train tickets to Salisbury. We rode the train there. We went to TNT Fireworks first since they are responsible for some of the scholarship money which the students received. It was neat, I guess. They fed us anyway, and Steve's speech was good. I didn't know that TNT originated in Florence, Alabama.

We rode on the bus, which looked sort of retro 70s to 80s. The bus driver was from hell, well, he drove like he was... But, we made it. We piled out of the bus from hell and went to Stonehenge. I was surprised that there was a major road right by it; however, it is a tourist attraction...I pictured it not being roped off. I have to say that I almost cried as I gazed upon it. It was so awesome, amazing, just the most wonderful thing I've ever laid my eyes upon. I couldn't believe that I was standing there amongst Stonehenge itself. I walked around slowly by myself, asking people to take photos of me; I also took many photographs of just the site itself. Beautiful. Here is a photo to capture the moment: my words just do not do it justice. The look on my face describes how I felt on this day:



Me at Stonehenge. July 22, 2011

Afterwards, I stopped at the gift shop and purchased a Lunar Eclipse black and white print, as well as some postcards. I also stopped and bought a jam and butter scone, and a cold Pepsi. Yeah, most drinks aren't that cold here, so I have to use that adjective. We got back on the bus from hell and went past Sting's house. Now, that was cool. Although, I couldn't get a photo of it because there was a huge hedge in front of the house, but it looked like stone, or some kind of rock exterior, as well as huge.

We rode on through Salisbury where the bus unloaded the group. We split up and walked to Salisbury Cathedral. It was also an awesome site; the only difference was that it didn't feel as holy as Westminster Abbey, or St. Paul's Cathedral felt for me because you could take photos inside. Still, I love cathedrals, and old churches in general.

Ashley, Hannah, and I ate at Boston Tea Party. It wasn't good at all. I got the fish finger sandwich; McDonald's fish sandwich would have been better. Oh well. There is a McDonalds by Kings St. Pancreas Station (if I named this correctly...) I know where it is. Dr. Bibbee commented: Did you get tea or baked beans? HAHA, he's right, because if you are eating Boston Tea Party, then, duh, baked beans, or tea, from Boston. So, I'll starve again. 7.95 pounds for that too. I eat and then I consider why the crap did I just waste my money on that?

So, we walked back to the train station. Caught the train. I slept like the dead on the way back; I actually felt cold and clammy. Sometimes it still feels so surreal, like I'm in this dream. I've lost days, I think on this trip. I look back at the photos that I've taken and think, oh yeah, i remember that day. We've been here almost 3 weeks, and it feels like it has only been a week and a half. I've been lost in the 9 1/2 at Paddington Station, I suppose. (A little Harry Potter humor)

We got off the train, and boarded a bus home; yes, home. It feels as if I live here now; I'm not certain how it is going to feel when I go home. Awesome, yes. Weird, yes. I live in this dorm now and it seems like I've been here a long time.

So, I'm back in my dorm, contemplating my wonderful day at Stonehenge. Oh, I almost forgot about the statue of the man on the bed in front of Salisbury Cathedral. Several of us: Jordan, me, Lacy, Hannah, took our photograph lying next to the statue. I could not hardly pose for this; I have not laughed this hard in a long time; it was SO funny. I guess you just had to be there.



 

Death March of London's Parks

Today, I got up, took a shower in the community shower stall, and got ready again. I ate breakfast, of course, in the basement cafeteria. My diet consists of yogurt and rice krispy cereal and milk. Today, I added eggs, bad idea- I tasted them all day long. I even brushed my teeth. The group went to London's Parks today. Dr. Bibbee sure likes to walk a lot: umm...death march I would call it. First, we climbed Primrose Hill; I think Lacy has a finish line photo of me. I have never smoked in my entire life, and I was huffing and puffing. Then, we walked to Regents Park. It was breathtaking; I am used to the pastoral landscape; however, the gardens were gorgeous. The flowers were so beautiful and colorful. I usually do not like a bunch of color, but this was pretty. The trees which led to a little momument reminded me of this film that I watched in European Film class: The Conformist. Sort of creepy. We then marched on to Hyde Park. I got to put my hands in the water in Princess Diana's Memorial Fountain. I loved her; I cried when she died. I don't envy her life. I am glad that I got to see where she got married, where her funeral was held, and lastly, her memorial fountain. This is an awesome experience!

Next, we walked on to St. James Park, and Green Park. (I may forget the order of those because my foot had developed a huge freakin blister on the bottom of it..) I now have swollen feet; I can hardly get my shoes on, and I have blister plasters on my heels, pinky toes, and the bottom of my foot, as well as an invisible gel cushion from Dr. Scholl's. Ugh, I spent 11 pounds on that crap.) I have smooth feet, so blisters are inevitable, I guess. I will be needing a pedi when I return to the United States.

Speaking of which, when I got to Robert Dyas store in Brunswick Square this evening, the man that checks me out says: You have an American accent; I love that. So, I say, yes, I'm from the United States. (gosh, the United States??) He said where from? I said: Alabama. He says, Al- la- bam- a? I am going on a road trip to Georgia, Atlanta, Alabama, and Louisiana. Where should I go in Alabama? Well, since I'm in awe of London, and have never traveled, I didn't have a clever answer...I'm like, well, I'm not sure.... He says: Should I keep driving through Alabama then? HAHAHA. I said, probably. I guess you had to be there. I'm working on my British accent, but I was tired from the death march (just kidding; it was fun) and my "American-ness" was showing through. That is like the third time I've been commented on for that. The first time was at the British Library; I had stopped to ask a lady where the Humanities Reading Room was; she said you have an American accent; where are you from? "Alabama." She says: Al - la - bam -a; I lived in Louisiana. Now, she had a very strong British accent, but if I stayed another month, I would as well.

I've digressed a bit. We passed by Buckingham Palace. I expected it to be grander, I think. It was huge, and the gates were pretty with the gold on them, but that's about all. Onward to the Tube Station.

I ate in the cafeteria. I am such a picky eater; I ate some of my spaghetti. This lady from Canada keeps talking to me a lot... I have that effect on some people apparently. They just tell me all of their stuff. It's the admissions counselor in me.

I am exhausted now. I'll post about my day today, tomorrow. Shakespeare's Globe Theatre: Much Ado about Nothing.

Monday, July 18

Today, the group went to St. Paul's Cathedral. I have been looking forward to this experience the entire time that I have been here. No one else wanted to tour the Cathedral itself; however, this actually provided me with an excellent opportunity. I am going to copy and paste my reflection on the Cathedral itself since it will provide the most insight.

Reflection upon St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral relates to the dome which, I believe, Wordsworth speaks of in his poem, “Composed upon Westminster Bridge, September 3, 1802.”  I am not certain what my preconceived notions and expectations of this place were going to be; I had read the poem many times, it all appeared very literal to me.  I knew that it was the site of the famous royal wedding between Prince Charles of Wales to Lady Diana Spencer, whom I loved.  Other than that, I really cannot state that I could identify with much regarding the Cathedral itself.  My expectations were high, and also, I felt that this was going to be a very religious place, much like Westminster Abbey.  I visited Westminster Abbey several days prior to this, and stood in amazement at its beauty.  I had also felt a spirit at the Abbey quite like none I had ever felt before; therefore, I expected to experience much of the same feeling again.

As I walked into the first site in London which I had gone by myself, I stood in awe.  For the first time in thirteen days, I was alone and could experience each and every intricate detail of this beautiful place.  This site appeared dissimilar from Westminster Abbey with its lighter interior, marble floors, and more modern (but still old) interior; nevertheless, that same spiritual feeling returned to me again.  Perhaps it was because I was by myself, yet the feeling was stronger this time.  It was  very surreal walking through the Cathedral, listening to the audio.  I stayed for the celebration of The Eucharist Service, which included the following: The Gathering, The Greeting, Prayer of Preparation, Prayers of Penitence Absolution; The Liturgy of the Word: Reading, Gospel Reading, Affirmation of Faith, Prayers of Intersession; The Liturgy of The Sacrament: The Peace, The Eucharistic Prayer, Breaking of the Bread, Invitation to Communion, as well as the Prayer after Communion.  I partook of the communion; it was very different than I have ever experienced before.  The church which I attend in my hometown, although not in a while, does not have this same feeling of spirituality in this way, for me.  Perhaps, I am learning more about myself than I ever imagined, but I really felt that the priest was genuine.  After the service concluded, I continued to tour the Cathedral.  I noticed the High Altar, which was quite different than the Altar at Westminster Abbey.  As I stood in the center of the Cathedral, I noticed the high dome and the colorful paintings whether on its ceiling, or around the upper galleries.  I proceeded downstairs to The Crypt where many people that have gone before us are buried.  It was also quite different than Westminster Abbey; it had a more intimate feeling with its candlelit interior, as well as the smaller worship areas.  I noticed one particular man’s tombstone: Sir Edward John Poynter Bt, 1836 to 1919.  There was a quotation at the bottom of the tombstone which read: “Whatever is worth doing is worth doing well.”  I noted this information on my phone because it was worth remembering, I thought.  Afterwards, I felt like a writer; therefore, I sat in the Crypt, among the dead, and wrote this reflection on my notebook paper.  I was particularly inspired by the presence and spirit which the Cathedral brought me. 

St. Paul’s Cathedral relates to my research because William Wordsworth reflects upon domes in his poem, “Composed upon Westminster Bridge, September 3, 1802.”  He chose to reflect upon this view from Westminster Bridge, although, it was only a literal view that he mentions in the poem.  The view that I think he meant was not literal, but spiritual, and figurative, as well.  I began to connect the poems which I am studying, “Tintern Abbey,” as well as “Composed upon Westminster Bridge . . .,” in a way that had not been possible before for me.  Could Wordsworth have felt this way as well?  I am finding it difficult to leave his state of mind out of my research project, since it only complicates matters; however, since this is my own reflection, it becomes a very important aspect of the reflection process.  I cannot feel, or even begin to imagine, what Wordsworth felt when he composed these two poems, yet the spirit of the place outweighs the literal by far.  To me, the spirit of England reigns strong.  Its high dome, which Wordsworth could probably clearly have seen from Westminster Bridge on that July day in 1802, and the fact that I was standing inside St. Paul’s Cathedral as well, soaking in the moment, with its paintings, its ornateness, gold, marble floors, and beautiful colorings, made this realization even clearer for me, and solidifies my thesis statement for my project.  In his poems, he writes about tranquility and how these places brought him this in a time of unsettled peace.  The spirit of England brought him that tranquility, and he glorifies it in his poem. 

As I leave this place, St. Paul’s Cathedral, that is, I reflect upon the Eucharist Service, which I partook of, the communion, which I participated in, and the warm handshake, which the priest gave me.  I see clearly now that William Wordsworth did not necessarily see those places as literal, reflecting upon its history; he only saw the tranquility which it brought him, and thus, it brings for me, as well.

Of course, this sounds more academic than this personal blog; however, it reflects upon how I felt and what I saw as well. I lit a candle, actually I paid to light it; it costs 30 pence. I only had 50 pence; so, I just dropped it in the slot, hoping that the extra 20 pence would help more; I felt that I needed it. My project is weighing me down. Wouldn't it be nice to be in the city and NOT have to do schoolwork? Of course it would, but I would probably not be here otherwise. So, okay, the schoolwork is fun as well (I keep reminding myself that it will be worth it soon.)

I wanted to go to Pizza Express, so when I left St. Paul's Cathedral, I walked across the street and went in. I sat by the window and watched people pass by; actually, there was a menu right there and people were stopping right in front of me; it was actually funny. The waiter was super nice; okay, he was cute as well. I ended up leaving him a 2 pound tip for an 11 pound eighty pence meal. I ordered the Romano pizza, which was a paper thin crust, with mozzarella, goat cheese, and tomato sauce. I really did not think that I could eat the whole thing, but I ate every slice but one...after tonight's meal in the dorm, I wish that I had saved that piece of pizza... I am a picky eater, as I have stated; I don't even like Pizza Hut. Now- Pizza Hut pretty much sucks. This place, oh my gosh, if pizza in Rome is this good, I can die now. Even the coke was good; they put lemon in it; I usually do not drink/eat lemon either, it ruins the enamel on your teeth, but I deserved a break from the rules. Yes, eating alone was awesome in the city. After writing in The Crypt, I had walked around to the gift shop and bought a souvenir guide, as well as a small book on The Temple Bar.

After my wonderful experience at Pizza Express, I proceeded to walk to find a Tube station. It was the first time that I had been in the city alone... I got out the map which I bought by Parliament on Monday. It is a much better map than the one I bought from Amazon (London A to Z). I can actually read this one. I found a tube station fairly easy... I had walked a bit too far up Cannon Street, but saw the store, Next, and remembered that we had been close to shopping earlier. I found the Circle Line Tube Station, followed the wonderful signs, and changed to Piccadilly Line to Russell Square. I am a Tube pro now. Maybe... I am going to miss the Tube when I get home; I actually do not miss my Mustang at all; it is fun walking in the city and riding the Tube, well, except for 4 and 5 pm when you are all up next to whomever, all up close and personal, hanging from the bar, trying not to fall down. You must brace yourself on the Tube.

Back to Russell Square, where it is easy to find my way back home; did I just say home? Wow. Actually, I've said it quite a bit, in my new British accent which I've developed. I've been practicing it a bit; it's alright; sorry. I think that I have said sorry in that accent, probably, 200 times a day. It seems to be the word of choice in The Tube station. At least the Brits are nice about it; at home, people would not say, sorry...

I stayed in my dorm tonight. I ate chilli downstairs with Jordan; it was way too spicy, so I really did not eat anything. They also served some sort of carrots. Where is my spaghetti noodles with butter and parmesan cheese at a time like this?

I have to get up in the morning at 4 am to go to Westminster Bridge.  I want to be there around 6 am (gasp) for my project. Another adventure in the city alone...

Sunday

I probably should not even post today because it has been horrible. So, this is all that I will say on the matter..

Da 12 and 13

Friday and Saturday have been stay in my dorm and work days for me. I know, blah. I keep reminding myself that I am here as a student. I'm not really on vacation. I ventured out to Starbucks by myself on Friday. I went with Amanda to Starbucks on Saturday morning, and then, Jordan, on Saturday afternoon. Then I walked to the little restaurant down the street by the convenience store to get fish and chips this evening. I'm not sure what's going on with them, but their fish isn't as good as it was last week; even the chips are different. I am going to have to find another place. Oh yeah, the Indian food that I ate with Ashley this week sucked. I am definitely a picky eater; there is no changing that, I suppose. I am trying, however. Tomorrow, I must stay in my room again and work. Being scholarly is draining me... I did sleep in until 9:50 am this morning, London time.

It rained on and off today. I could title this blog: "The Rain." It rains randomly here. Actually, it rained in on my window sill today as I worked at my desk in my dorm room. I like my view of the building next door from my room. Although, I have to remember that if I can see them, they can certainly see me.

I posted two new academic blog posts today; I really hope that they like them (my professors that is; that's what counts). It is time for bed now, and I really wish the police, or whatever, sirens would stop. The city is busy here. There was a fatal traffic accident in front of our dorms last night: one person was killed. You have to be careful in the city, well, careful anywhere that you may go.

I will try to catch up my previous skipped blogs tomorrow night if I have time; it is now morning in London. Gosh, I am in England; I keep forgetting.

Day 11

Yes, I am skipping days. I'll come back to yesterday as well. Wordsworth is rubbing off on me: I am recollecting my thoughts... I am in my room being all academic: actually, I was incredibly confused and frustrated about my research project. Some people just calm you down, and my group leaders, Kerrie and Blair, did just that. I learned something about myself this morning: I have been avoiding some of my project itself because I am not in my comfort zone. As I am sitting in my room thinking that I never really talk about myself to anyone, not my fears that is, I realized something in my research. I have been avoiding a lot of things in my life, such as going back to school, etc.. I have always wanted to, and did two years ago: I accomplished that goal. Now, it is poetry, and perhaps, just little things in general. I've always thought that I would love travel; I've never had the opportunity, so, here I am in a Julia Roberts movie discovering who Candy is. Am I too old to be discovering this now, I ask myself. I have told a couple of people (I am not good at trusting people for some reason) but yes, I am now Julia Roberts in London. I feel so much better having said that aloud. I know that this will change me even more; I changed a lot when my husband went to Afghanistan over a year ago, and I know this is already changing me once again. It is for the better, however. I feel more, well, educated, better able to help students like myself: I deal with others academic problems better than my own, in case you have not noticed. Wordsworth revisited Tintern Abbey in his mind because he felt a release of emotions, just like I felt when I visited Westminster Abbey, and also like I am right now, which is why I am free writing this blog post. His doubts about his particular problems inspired him to be creative in this poem: it was written later; also, "Composed upon Westminster Bridge..." was written as a reflection upon a tranquil London. This has made me realize that his poem, "London,1802," is the one that is dissimilar (for right now, anyway). As I make more self-discoveries, I can unlock these poems as well. I am a picky eater; I am picky at my clothes; I like contemporary modern; I am definitely an English major; I am finding that I like film better than history recently... I am not going to bore you by telling you all about myself, nor will I choose to since I am rather a private person, but this helps myself as well to understand who I am and why I am here. London is fabulous. The United States is fabulous. My travel experiences are certainly influencing each other.

I'm Going to Fast Foward to Day 9 and come back to Day 6 for Now

I am doing this because I got a bit behind in my blogs, and I want to take more time to reflect upon Bath, which I visited on Sunday, Day 6.

Today, I felt better than I have since I have been in London. We met for breakfast in the basement, then went to the British Library to work on our schoolwork. I know; I have been having so much fun that it is easy to forget that I am actually a student. However, I got my revised proposal back: It went from a C+ to a B-; not bad... We got lunch to go at Pretamagas (this spelling is probably not right). It mostly has sandwiches; I don't eat sandwiches, so I got a mozarella and tomato crossiant, as well as a chocolate crossiant, which were awesome. As I have stated already, the food is different here. It is very diverse, but the main food seems to be fish and chips of which I have ate a lot of. I will need to do a blog on the different fish and chips places that I have eaten: I am becoming quite the connoisseur of that. I got quite a bit of work done, but my academic blog didn't post and it lost it. I think the library doesn't like my computer... Luckily, I have it written down and will get it typed tonight.

Afterwards, we met at 1 pm and walked to The Globe Theatre, well, rode a very crowded Tube and walked forever. I think that I should be in good shape when I get home. I digress when I say that I have blisters on my feet today; one on each side of my little toes, and a big one on my left heel. Hannah let me have some bandaids, which was most helpful. One day, my hips hurt down the side, the next was my chins, then my feet. Blair, Jordan, and Lacy are my personal trainers. I am so sore that I am not even sore, if that makes any sense.

The Globe Theatre is beautiful; it is very ornate, has wooden seats, and is open to the air in the middle, which is the stage. I saw Dr. Faustus, a play, with the group. The play was magnificent; the actors were incredible, and Dr. Faustus got sent to Hell in the end, although I thought that he would get sent through the trap door instead of the decorated curtain, which had smoke coming out, by the way. They sang a musical at the end, which I liked. I loved the costumes, and Helen looked like Mrs. Latasha Howell, to me. The dancers who were in black costumes were so dramatical, as well as the almost sexual parts in the play. It was so amazing to see a play where Shakespeare actually peformed on stage centuries before me. The bold colors, the music, acting, even the gift shop was awesome. I will be coming back next week to see another play,so I will buy me a T-shirt then.

Ashley and I ate at some Indian restaurant tonight on the way back from The Globe Theatre. It was absolutely the worst food that I have ever eaten in my life; my tongue tastes like it is covered in crap (you know what I mean..). Then, since I was still hungry, we went and got something else, fish and chips; it is always good. The chips were actually fries this time, and were bad, and the fish was hard. Ashley's ice cream was frozen. We paid 15 pounds (25 bucks) for this Indian food, and it sucked. Oh well; I tried something new; I did not promise that I would like it. Let's just call it our culinary nightmare. Onward to the dorm! I must get some sleep after I finish my blog post for my academic blog, since I lost it at the British Library; thank goodness for pencil and paper; I did copy it down.

I am still speaking in a British accent in my head as I type this blog. It's too bad that I cannot speak it onto here. "It's alright."

Day 5

What day is it? I have lost a day already. Perhaps I am still so freaking tired that I do not realize what day it is anymore. I live in a dorm now; there are three showerstalls down the hall, along with three toilets. My room has a nice view of the building next door. At least it is one of the cooler rooms since I can open my window outwardly. I also bought a fan at Robert Dyas which never gets turned off.

Yes, today is Saturday. Amy Goodman, Dylan Tucker, Ashley Gonzales, Lacy Offutt, Jordan Sparks, and I went to London's Film and Comic Con today. It was in Earl's Court; we rode the Tube (surprise..). Actually, I am getting used to the Tube, other than when I lay down in my little twin bed at night. Then, I feel as if I am still riding on The Tube and the bed is moving foward; that wouldn't be so good to fly out of my window: I am in a third floor building with a basement as well, but I digress. Comic Con was so awesome. Ashley and I got in line for tickets for Corey Feldman, Harry Potter, as well as Brent Spiner (Star Trek: The Next Generation, which is my favorite.)  Harry Potter was sold out. We walked though the booths. Everything from Star Trek, Disney, Harry Potter, Zelda Nintendo, Spiderman, Star Wars, etc. was there. If you have a favorite, it was probably there. There were many stars signing autographs as well, however they were 20 pounds each, so, I did not buy any. Ashley and I did buy a Darth Vader necklace; I am an official member of the nerd club now, and very proud of it. Brent Spiner was so hilarious at his talk, and Corey Feldman was really good as well. It was his 40th birthday that day. He was awesome as well at his talk; I just wish the music next to it had not been so loud. I did take a lot of photographs, however. I must say that it is just so cool to meet stars. This was a spectacular day; I am so glad that I booked tickets for this.

Tonight, Ashley, Jordan, and I went walking to find a place to eat. I found (I say "I" because I am the one who is a particular eater...) Spaghetti House. We had such a relaxing evening. So far this week we have been running through the city; I have been so hot and tired that it is almost difficult to enjoy it. Therefore, tonight was a break from the hustle and bustle of the trip. I had the spaghetti bolognese, which is authentic Italian spaghetti. I have been dehyrdated, so I drank three glasses of coke, as well as a latte. I do not even like Coke, but here I am drinking it in London. Remember, I told you there is not a lot of other soft drinks, and I really, really need the caffeine, trust me. We shared dessert, which was teramasu, along with a few other things. My dinner was 18.75 pounds, around 30 US dollars. I did not even care; it was that good.

We came back to the dorm at about 11:30; people here linger in restaurants like it is a family dinner at home. We probably stayed at the restaurant for three hours before we walked back home. (Home? Yes, home until July 30).

Day 4

Today we all went to Trafalgar Square. Yes, I rode The Tube again. The Tube is London's underground subway system. At 5 pm, you are all up close and personal with the literally hundreds of people, Londoners, as well as the massive amounts of tourists on the Tube. When I slow down enough to actually look at the Tube map, I can figure out where I am. Most of the time, however, we are in such a rush to get somewhere that I feel as if I am running through the city like a madwoman. That's one of my new phrases, as well as "sorry" (in a British accent). Jordan has been teaching me the proper way to speak the accent. I am really hoping that those of you that are reading my blog realize that there is NOT a British language; the language is primarily English, but everyone speaks in that accent. I have been practicing on it all day; hopefully, I will return with a proper accent. I am typing this in my British accent now; I hear it in my head whenever I think now.

Trafalgar Square is very nice. The walk to the main part of it had the phone booth from the Harry Potter films. Of course, I took pictures, as well as Trafalgar Studios. There is a little gift shop that sells T-shirts for like 6.99 pounds (cheap for London); I must go back and buy one for my girls. We sat as a group at the square and also, took some photos of the group. Then most of us ate at The Crypt, where dead people are buried.... I, of course, ate the fish and chips; weird, because I never eat fried food. I'll probably need to get a facial after this... Actually, it is quite different from the US fried fish. Actually, all of the food tastes different, even the water tastes dissimilar. I have started drinking Coke because they do not know what sweet tea is here, nor is there any Mt. Dew.

Tonight, I went back to my dorm. I walked back with Jordan. Ashley and Dr. Peterson bought tickets at Leicester Square for a play; I decided to stay home (did I just say home?) and work on my proposal. We walked up the street and gazed at some old bookshops; I must come back and do that!

Day 3

I went with the group to Westminster Abbey and the British Library today. Of course, we rode The Tube. I still felt sick today; I'm not sure what it is, but hopefully I will feel better soon. This morning I had to get up at 6 am, feeling jetlagged since I had lost at least six hours of sleep from the plane ride. We have to meet downstairs in the basement every morning at 6 am and I am not a morning person. Oh well, I'll live, I guess. This morning I ate well: eggs, toast, milk, juice.

We went to Westminster Abbey first. To describe it in a few words is difficult. We paid 13 pounds to get in; British money is about 1.64 to the US dollar, so this trip will be expensive- donations are accepted. Just joking, I think... The Abbey is breathtaking. Everything from the ceiling to the floor, is so ornate. As I walked around the Abbey listening to my prerecorded phone, which was a self-guided tour, I began to experience something that I did not quite expect when I came here. I began to feel such emotion: an emotion that almost overwhelmed me. The rooms have tombs in them, which are above ground, and to know that those such as Queen Elizabeth I, her sister, John the Baptist, St. Edward the Confessor was buried right there in those tombs was so surreal. Ashley, Jordan, and I walked up the stairs into the prayer which was beginning. The priest spoke a few words, and asked us to recite the words on the page after his reading. It was a litany prayer for St. Edward the Confessor. I experienced such a release of emotions that day. The only thing that I can compare it to is that I used to attend a Methodist church growing up which had us do responsive readings. The priest held up a large clear bowl of what looked like written prayers in it, prayed over it, as the group that I was in prayed silently. As I stated previously, it was unlike anything that I have ever been to in my life.

My favorite part of the Abbey was Poet's Corner. I spent quite a bit of time there, and sort of got separated from Jordan and Ashley. I was amazed to see names like Robert Browning, Gerald Hopkins, Shakespeare, Dylan Thomas, etc. in the Abbey. I felt as if I were close to the poets. Of course, William Wordsworth was there; not him in the flesh, he is dead, but a statue of him.  (My project is on William Wordsworth.) I stood there in awe.

Another part of the Abbey which was amazing was the High Altar. This is where William and Kate got married, as well as where Princess Diana's funeral was held. I could close my eyes and pretend like I was there. No photographs are allowed inside the Abbey, although no photograph could reproduce the sight that I saw on this day.

Next on the agenda was the British Library. I got my reader card pass today; I am now an official member of the British Library who is extremely strict. Upon arrival, they check your backpack. You have to go downstairs to the basement and put your things in a large clear bag: no pens, no highlighters, nothing but pencils, laptop computer, flash drive. I did take my English Lit book, although they checked through it everytime that I went out of the library. You cannot take the books home with you; in fact, you have to reserve them ahead of time and you pick them up at the issue/return desk. This is so different than it is in the US. Everyone actually takes care of their books; the libraries that I have been to have most of their books written in, and the pages are torn. You would be in a lot of trouble if they caught you with a pen or highlighter. I am certainly not going to try it. My UK adaptor that I bought back in the states fryed; I thought that it killed my computer. Thank God it did not do that.

I went to the Harry Potter World Premiere tonight. I have only watched the films, but I was so excited. The crowd was unreal. We were standing too far back and to the side to get a clear view; however, I did manage to obtain some decent photographs. This was held in Trafalgar Square. Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert... they were all there: so close to me.... I got a photo of what I thought was Harry Potter, but it turned out to be a guy from the television show, Glee. Each girl on both sides of me asked to get a picture of my picture on my camera. I let them, but I should have sold it for a price... We had the best time. I have not had that much fun in a really long time. Yes, I must be twelve years old; maybe it's something about the city. I have always thought that I was switched at birth and should be living in the city; perhaps, I was.

Tonight, I definitely ate fish and chips. Day 2 of that. This time it was from the little restaurant down from our dorms by the convenience store. It was really good.

Day 2

I am having to backdate my blog; I've been so busy that I haven't had time to update it; however, I promise I'll be faithful in my writing from now on. Day 2 was a very busy day. We got our travel cards at Russell Square Station. Now I can travel on The Tube anytime that I want to for a whole month in Zone 1 and 2. So, Dr. Bibbee and Dr. Peterson gave us an assignment today called "The Amazing Race." Ashley, Jordan, Lacy, and I ran all over the city trying to find eight sites in about five hours. I almost died from exhaustion; I was so hot from feeling bad, and being out of shape. The funniest thing was when we were trying to find China Bank. China Bank had been moved from its original location, as well as Peter Ackroyd's book on London didn't give an accurate address. Our group came in next to last; however, we had a good time. I met some really good new friends that day: Jordan and Lacy are awesome.  I will have to add that they are my personal trainers on this trip. We met the group at the London Eye, and Dr. Peterson bought ice cream for everyone. I was so hungry, so I went down the street to get my first "fish and chips." It was really good.  I am not sure of the name of the place; it's just down from the London Eye. The lady noticed my Alabama accent; I'll have to work on that.

The Beginning of A Magnificent Experience

Well, I have started this travelogue a few days late; however, I wanted to reflect upon my personal experiences while in London so that I can preserve the memories of a lifetime.

Day 1: On Monday, July 4, 2011, I began my journey in Birmingham airport. I had many emotions on that day: I could not believe that I was doing this; I was scared; I even woke up crying. You may be wondering why was I crying when I was going to London?! It is scary. The fear of the unknown had caught up with me, and I was quite overwhelmed. These feelings only grew into more panic as I discovered that my flight was delayed due to the thunderstorms. After a while, I asked the flight desk about the delay, and made her aware of the fact that I needed to meet my friend, Ashley, who was flying out of Nashville. We were suppossed to arrive and fly out at the same time, and the desk told me that I would not make that flight. Yes, I was freaking out; after calming down, I approached a second desk. She changed my flight so that I would make it on time, but failed to give me back my boarding pass to London for the second flight from Atlanta. She was not at the desk anymore; therefore, I asked the first desk if I could obtain another boarding pass. She rerouted my baggage, and told me to get on the plane that was leaving immediately. Well, as I was standing there even more freaked out, I realized just how real this was: I was leaving for England for a month... I boarded the plane, and waited for the weather to cooperate. We finally took off for Atlanta. I arrived at Atlanta airport, got off the plane, and asked which concourse that flight 272 to London was on; of course, it was at E10, and I was at Concourse A. You have to understand that I have only flown once in my life, which was two years ago to Minneapolis. This time it was going to be to a foreign country, no doubt. I found a train within the airport, took it to Concourse E, and rode the escalator to E10 where I found Starbucks. There is nothing like caffeine to keep you going... One of the group members, Blair De'Bowens, arrived as well, and we boarded the plane together. Also, my friend, Ashley Gonzales, whom I was waiting on had just arrived at the gate on her flight from Nashville; luckily, she made it on time to board the plane!

The flight to London was surreal. Many students from various states were traveling there to study, whether in London, or in Oxford. It was fascinating to talk to other students that shared the same goal as myself. Ashley and I watched our own personal televison screens (I watched part of The Adjustment Bureau, while she watched The Dilemma). There was a lot of turbulance on the plane due to the weather. It was an 8 hour flight to London, and a very long one. I managed to sleep in a tight place. They served us dinner, and I was so hungry that I ate almost every bite; I think it was spinach pasta, or something like that. Also, we were served breakfast on the plane, which was some kind of English muffin; it was really good.

We arrived in London about 10:20 am (London time) at Heathrow Airport. We had lost six hours. We went through Customs; I am not going to talk about that. Nevertheless, I made it through, although I felt dead. Ashley's, as well as others in the group, luggage did not make it, in fact they waited two days before Delta got it to them. I was among the blessed who had luggage. The trip from the Airport on the Tube was quite an experience, especially with a backpack, and a large suitcase that had to be pulled, as well as lifted onto the underground subway, and up a ton of stairs to the lift. Somehow, I managed; however, I'll be needing to see Dr. Gary Randolph when I return on July 30! (haha) The Tube ride was an experience; we were so delirious... The recording on the Tube tells you to "Mind the Gap between the train and the platform," I have already developed a British accent for this phrase. They also state where you are going, in our case, we get off at Russell Square from Picadilly Line; they mention that the last stop is "Cockfosters," which in our delirious state, was quite funny and some of us (Ashley, as well as myself, and some others) giggled every time it was said.  I know; I am not twelve, but, hey, I was delirious and jetlagged. It is still funny though.

We got off the Tube, wheeled our luggage to the University of London dorms, which is where I am staying, and got my room. I have a room which faces another building; I can see everyone through their windows (everyone has been dressed so far); so, I am careful since if I can see them, they can certainly see me. I have a bed, a desk, and a small sink; actually, my room is a decent size, and the window is a casement window, so I opened it. When I arrived, I realized that there is no air conditioning here in London, so, I think I am going to die. That night we went to Brunswick Square, which is full of shops, such as The French Connection (with its weird advertisement of a man on a toy horse that I do not understand the concept of, but I digress); I bought a small fan at Robert Dyas for 14.99 British pounds, but who cares, I was hot. The rate of the U.S. dollar here is, well, 1.64 American dollars equals one British pound. If I have 1000 US dollars, it is like having 600 American dollars. No, things are not cheap, and vary in price! We ate dinner in the dining hall at the dorms; I ate some kind of quiche, which I did not care for. Later, Ashley and I went to a really cool convenience store down the street that has everything from bagels, fresh fruit, tshirts, milk (which is in different shaped jugs that I adore), coke, sprite, etc.. I bought milk, hummus, pringles, and two sprites. I was already getting dehydrated from the trip. Our next morning was to include what Dr. Peterson and Dr. Bibbee called "The Amazing Race," where we would find eight sites (we were only given clues, not the names of the sites). This was to be our first official homework assignment.

I got to sleep, I think at 2 am, having to be awake by 6 am. A reminder for those who do not know: the sun rises here at 4 am and it does not get dark until 10 pm.