It's been awhile. But I was thinking over it, and I think it's worth posting here still. In case I remember something, to do some reflection.
I didn't think that China would block blogger, so that's why no updates were made from China. I did make another travel blog, but I used it rarely. I hardly had any time in China. I'm glad I went to Oxford first: it prepared me for doing nothing but work. And that's all I did.I studied probably 8 hours a day on top of 5 hours of classes. Just of Chinese. Homework, flash cards, review, vocab, grammar.
And since I've been back...forgotten most of it. Which is a shame. Though, on the bright side, I do still have all the books, so I just need to input those into anki and review them once a week. I just haven't had time to do that. My tones also improved big time. I can hear the difference clearly, and when Dave speaks, I can see the difficulty he has with it. It's interesting. China improved my ear.
As for Oxford - the sad thing is, things here have gone back to normal. As if Oxford didn't really happen, as if the friends I made weren't ever really great friends. I don't ever see Ande it seems like. I hardly see Kat. I do have class with Olivia, and I see Zach around a lot. But it's not the same. It's not at all, and I miss that. Drama and all. The tailgate reunion is coming up though in a few weeks, and I can't wait to go to that. Mrs. Bradshaw, our house mother, will be there too! That'll be so nice!
The saddest thing though is how we hardly talk to the friends we made over there. I thought I had made some great friends, great friends with the British guys. I've seen two of them, they came and visited, but I've hardly talked to any of the others. Peter ignores me it seems like, and Joe too. I thought we could be friends past Oxford, and it doesn't seem like it.
But now it's school time. Been school time for awhile, and I'm my usual super-busy self. Cut back on the extracirriculars, but research is taking up a lot of time. It's fun, just a lot.
Maybe I'll get back to this soon and try and remember specific stories to share.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Places I've gone
I figure I might as well tell about all the places I've been since I've had time to actually travel, and I very well may include pictures.
1. Brighton: "Brighton is the place to find husbands!" Ande and I said practically the whole train ride there. (It's a line from Pride & Prejudice, if you didn't know.) It was just the two of us, and we got up rather early one Thursday morning to check out this seaside-palace kind of place. We weren't quite sure if we got on the right train though because it looked more field like than sea like, but we ended up in the right place. We decided that Brighton is what you make of it. We visited the Royal Pavilion, which was quite interesting, and had lovely tea there. We then went to Brighton Pier, where we found an arcade and carnival rides. It was a fantastic day that we laughed through and probably spent more money then we should. We went to a local bar and had a beer, before heading back to Oxford.
2. Bath: The very next day after Brighton, Kat, Michael and I traveled to Bath together. We only spent a few hours there, but we got to see a fair bit of the city. Saw the Roman Baths, which were an incredible history lesson, and stopped by the Jane Austen Center, and inside the Bath Cathedral. We headed back to Oxford to make dinner at Keble.
3. London: Finally when Dave arrived, I finally got to go into London! It was nice to go back there again, but it was painful too because I decided to break in new shoes and we walked a lot! I did get to go inside Westminster Abbey, which I hadn't gotten to do before. Then just walked all over London seeing the usual touristy things. I also then got to go back with Ande two Sunday's ago to see Lion King at West End! It was spectacular and we had a nice dinner at a cafe in Covent Garden.
4. Scotland: At the end of Dave's stay here, we traveled around Scotland to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Loch Ness/Inverness. I also stayed another night in Edinburgh, but that was unplanned and spontaneous (more later). Dave and I left Oxford very, very early in the morning (about 6am) and headed to Edinburgh. The countryside (what I saw of it on the train) was gorgeous, with lots of rolling hills and greenery and lambs. We had one night in Edinburgh, and the day was spent wandering around the city. We went to the Castle, but not inside it, and walked the Royal Mile to where Mary, Queen of Scots was held prisoner. We also spent a lot of time in the Whiskey Museum, which was a lot of fun. The next day we left early again to go to Inverness, where we caught a tour group to Loch Ness. Which was probably the most gorgeous, romantic, perfect place I've ever seen. We had such good weather. And everyone was really nice. We had a fantastic dinner, and then spent a good 2 1/2 hours at a local pub, with a really nice bartender and heard some local guy singing. It was by far the best night. Then we went to Glasgow on the bus, which was god awful. But Glasgow was pretty great. A business kind of city, so not much touristy stuff to see. So found Dave a hostel, left my stuff in the train station, and went to see Star Trek in this huge Cinema that was like 8 stories tall. It was fantastic and the tickets were really, really cheap. We almost had a panic attack though because I couldn't get on the Caledonian Sleeper, so I had to take another train with like 3 transfers. I ended up in the middle of nowhere called Westerton, where I called Kat and found out that she and Ande were still in Edinburgh and leaving in the morning. So I hopped on the train to Edinburgh and met them there. I did meet a very nice Scottish man and we had a good chat, though of course I was paranoid me the whole time. Spent the night in Kat/Ande's hotel and went back to Oxford in the morning to catch the final day of the Summer Eights (the big rowing competition) where we cheered Keble on.
5. Amsterdam: This past weekend, Kat, Ande and I traveled to Amsterdam. Finally another country I haven't been too since I've been here! I wanted to hit more countries in Europe but never got the chance to, which is a shame. Amsterdam though...could be skipped. The museums were pretty good, but the city was a bit sketchy and very dirty/grafetti. Our hostel was outside the city, which was gorgeous, but to get there from the main part of the city was nasty. We probably could've done more research, but oh well. We had a good time together, but had like a crazy guy kind of follow us, and may have seen a dead person in the alleyway. Yeah, not the best place to see. I'd skip it really. The museums aren't worth it.
6. Places in the near future: Cardiff and Chatsworth House. Cardiff for a day or two, and Chatsworth House is where Pemeberly of Pride & Prejudice is.
That's it for now! Gotta get ready for the Don's Party! Yeah free alcohol in front of my tutors! hahaha.
1. Brighton: "Brighton is the place to find husbands!" Ande and I said practically the whole train ride there. (It's a line from Pride & Prejudice, if you didn't know.) It was just the two of us, and we got up rather early one Thursday morning to check out this seaside-palace kind of place. We weren't quite sure if we got on the right train though because it looked more field like than sea like, but we ended up in the right place. We decided that Brighton is what you make of it. We visited the Royal Pavilion, which was quite interesting, and had lovely tea there. We then went to Brighton Pier, where we found an arcade and carnival rides. It was a fantastic day that we laughed through and probably spent more money then we should. We went to a local bar and had a beer, before heading back to Oxford.
2. Bath: The very next day after Brighton, Kat, Michael and I traveled to Bath together. We only spent a few hours there, but we got to see a fair bit of the city. Saw the Roman Baths, which were an incredible history lesson, and stopped by the Jane Austen Center, and inside the Bath Cathedral. We headed back to Oxford to make dinner at Keble.
3. London: Finally when Dave arrived, I finally got to go into London! It was nice to go back there again, but it was painful too because I decided to break in new shoes and we walked a lot! I did get to go inside Westminster Abbey, which I hadn't gotten to do before. Then just walked all over London seeing the usual touristy things. I also then got to go back with Ande two Sunday's ago to see Lion King at West End! It was spectacular and we had a nice dinner at a cafe in Covent Garden.
4. Scotland: At the end of Dave's stay here, we traveled around Scotland to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Loch Ness/Inverness. I also stayed another night in Edinburgh, but that was unplanned and spontaneous (more later). Dave and I left Oxford very, very early in the morning (about 6am) and headed to Edinburgh. The countryside (what I saw of it on the train) was gorgeous, with lots of rolling hills and greenery and lambs. We had one night in Edinburgh, and the day was spent wandering around the city. We went to the Castle, but not inside it, and walked the Royal Mile to where Mary, Queen of Scots was held prisoner. We also spent a lot of time in the Whiskey Museum, which was a lot of fun. The next day we left early again to go to Inverness, where we caught a tour group to Loch Ness. Which was probably the most gorgeous, romantic, perfect place I've ever seen. We had such good weather. And everyone was really nice. We had a fantastic dinner, and then spent a good 2 1/2 hours at a local pub, with a really nice bartender and heard some local guy singing. It was by far the best night. Then we went to Glasgow on the bus, which was god awful. But Glasgow was pretty great. A business kind of city, so not much touristy stuff to see. So found Dave a hostel, left my stuff in the train station, and went to see Star Trek in this huge Cinema that was like 8 stories tall. It was fantastic and the tickets were really, really cheap. We almost had a panic attack though because I couldn't get on the Caledonian Sleeper, so I had to take another train with like 3 transfers. I ended up in the middle of nowhere called Westerton, where I called Kat and found out that she and Ande were still in Edinburgh and leaving in the morning. So I hopped on the train to Edinburgh and met them there. I did meet a very nice Scottish man and we had a good chat, though of course I was paranoid me the whole time. Spent the night in Kat/Ande's hotel and went back to Oxford in the morning to catch the final day of the Summer Eights (the big rowing competition) where we cheered Keble on.
5. Amsterdam: This past weekend, Kat, Ande and I traveled to Amsterdam. Finally another country I haven't been too since I've been here! I wanted to hit more countries in Europe but never got the chance to, which is a shame. Amsterdam though...could be skipped. The museums were pretty good, but the city was a bit sketchy and very dirty/grafetti. Our hostel was outside the city, which was gorgeous, but to get there from the main part of the city was nasty. We probably could've done more research, but oh well. We had a good time together, but had like a crazy guy kind of follow us, and may have seen a dead person in the alleyway. Yeah, not the best place to see. I'd skip it really. The museums aren't worth it.
6. Places in the near future: Cardiff and Chatsworth House. Cardiff for a day or two, and Chatsworth House is where Pemeberly of Pride & Prejudice is.
That's it for now! Gotta get ready for the Don's Party! Yeah free alcohol in front of my tutors! hahaha.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Changing Times
There are those things in life that changes a person. Sometimes you can feel them, like the wind in your hair, and other times they are barely perceptible, like the Earth spinning below you. I didn't expect much when coming here. I expected hard work and perhaps making some friends. I didn't expect to fall in love with the city, to become so attached to this house, to these people. I didn't think I would change, and needless to say, I have changed. I feel like a different person then when I came here - but the question is, do I like that new person?
I have done a lot since I last posted, and so it's hard to figure out where to start from. I've visited Brighton, Bath, London, Edinburgh, Inverness, Loch Ness, Glasgow, and now Amsterdam. I'm finally getting to see the parts that I wanted to see. This weekend coming up I am going to Chatsworth House and Cardiff, Wales. I, hopefully, will get to see Dave for another 24 hours or so before parting ways for the rest of the summer until we meet back again on August 11th for the flight back home.
It's all gone so fast! I hope the next six weeks will be like that (well, the six weeks in China, that is).
My computer is acting strangely. So, for now, this is all and hopefully in the coming days I'll have some time to spare for more details of my travels and classes.
I have done a lot since I last posted, and so it's hard to figure out where to start from. I've visited Brighton, Bath, London, Edinburgh, Inverness, Loch Ness, Glasgow, and now Amsterdam. I'm finally getting to see the parts that I wanted to see. This weekend coming up I am going to Chatsworth House and Cardiff, Wales. I, hopefully, will get to see Dave for another 24 hours or so before parting ways for the rest of the summer until we meet back again on August 11th for the flight back home.
It's all gone so fast! I hope the next six weeks will be like that (well, the six weeks in China, that is).
My computer is acting strangely. So, for now, this is all and hopefully in the coming days I'll have some time to spare for more details of my travels and classes.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
I thought I already did this...
While I'm waiting for either Kat to show up or call or to go to dinner, I figured I might as well actually explain the stuff that's been going on over here.
Seminars over: I don't think I need to explain this one. Finished last Thursday, turned in my last paper on Monday, and that was that. Thank goodness they're over. For serious.
Tutorials: Well, I have my first tutorial on Tuesday, and my second one today (Thursday). They are so different than anything I've really done except for research with Dr. Tessman. I have also learned that I know nothing about comparative politics. I was quite embarassed during that class, but hopefully I'll learn quickly. My International Conflict class on the other hand was quite wonderful, if I do say so myself. I knew more of what I was talking about, and when he prompted me for further answers, I could at least get most of it. Both my tutors are very nice too.
"The guys": Chris, James, John, Joe, and Peter. They're adorable, and we played Risk (well three of them did) and basically they're hilarious.
First club ever: I actually don't remember what it was called...Risa! That's it. It was...icky. My dress got wet, my shoes were sticky, and at one point I almost passed out from claustrophobia. Meh. Hopefully the other ones will be better? I did dance though, which is unusual for me.
Dancesport: Is a lot of fun! I've always wanted to learn how to ballroom dance, and so I went on Monday and learned! I learned the cha-cha, the waltz, and the quickstep. Peter was pretty hilarious, and couldn't remember most of the stuff but he picked up the quickstep well...quickly! So the people asked us if we would perform in the cuppers (the competition here) for the quickstep! I'm nervous and excited.
Anyway, I'm bored with updating that stuff.
Tonight is May Day. Basically, everything is open until 5 or 6 in the morning, at which point you go to Magadlen Bridge and watch the sunrise, and then listen to the choir sing on the tower. Hopefully we'll make it through the night. I sure hope I do at least! And I'll try and post most pictures soon...
Seminars over: I don't think I need to explain this one. Finished last Thursday, turned in my last paper on Monday, and that was that. Thank goodness they're over. For serious.
Tutorials: Well, I have my first tutorial on Tuesday, and my second one today (Thursday). They are so different than anything I've really done except for research with Dr. Tessman. I have also learned that I know nothing about comparative politics. I was quite embarassed during that class, but hopefully I'll learn quickly. My International Conflict class on the other hand was quite wonderful, if I do say so myself. I knew more of what I was talking about, and when he prompted me for further answers, I could at least get most of it. Both my tutors are very nice too.
"The guys": Chris, James, John, Joe, and Peter. They're adorable, and we played Risk (well three of them did) and basically they're hilarious.
First club ever: I actually don't remember what it was called...Risa! That's it. It was...icky. My dress got wet, my shoes were sticky, and at one point I almost passed out from claustrophobia. Meh. Hopefully the other ones will be better? I did dance though, which is unusual for me.
Dancesport: Is a lot of fun! I've always wanted to learn how to ballroom dance, and so I went on Monday and learned! I learned the cha-cha, the waltz, and the quickstep. Peter was pretty hilarious, and couldn't remember most of the stuff but he picked up the quickstep well...quickly! So the people asked us if we would perform in the cuppers (the competition here) for the quickstep! I'm nervous and excited.
Anyway, I'm bored with updating that stuff.
Tonight is May Day. Basically, everything is open until 5 or 6 in the morning, at which point you go to Magadlen Bridge and watch the sunrise, and then listen to the choir sing on the tower. Hopefully we'll make it through the night. I sure hope I do at least! And I'll try and post most pictures soon...
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Quick Update:
To be explained more later.
Seminars over
First tutorial today
"The guys"
First club ever
Dancesport
Trinity Choir Concert
Cat run over...
Bike
I think that's about it!
Seminars over
First tutorial today
"The guys"
First club ever
Dancesport
Trinity Choir Concert
Cat run over...
Bike
I think that's about it!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Seriously?
I cannot believe it's been a week. That tells you that I am actually working my butt off almost all the time. So much so that I cannot help contemplate writing up a "what am I doing over here" thing.
What have I been up too?
Writing papers, reading - the usual. The last Archer paper I did was just confusing. I did so much research and it just confused me more! I think I ended up doing it alright, and it at least sounded good. I suppose I'll get my grade back tomorrow, but who knows. I know a lot of people didn't finish it - mainly the Bradshaw kids. I am so glad I'm not one of them. They just read and read and don't have time for anything else.
Friday though, Kat did talk me into going out. Not all of us went (see Bradshaw comment above), but I went out and met some Keble kids, and had some drinks, and had a pretty good time. We then got kababs and went back to the house. Some people were so drunk. It was pretty amusing. I played Dawgopoly with two of the Keble guys and Zach, one of the guys here. I wanted to play Risk but they scoffed.
Saturday was retail-therapy day and sleeping-in. Especially because we've been staying up until like 4am (7am in Kat's case). We went shopping at Primark and bought lots of stuff! I spent 60 quid...in clothes. But I go a lot! I got 2 pashminas, 2 pairs of shoes [one flat, one boot], 2 pairs of pajamas, socks, seamless socks, a loufa, a pencil skirt, a rain jacket, a cami, and linen shorts. It's pretty awesome at Primark. I also bought a bike from one of the grad students for 30 quid, but I have to go have a tube replaced. So that'll be happening tomorrow. Saturday night I didn't go out, though most other people did. I stayed in and watched three movies and went through the grad students leftovers and got like four bottles of liquor. It was pretty good.
Sunday, we all worked. Played some late-night soccer outside on the lawn.
Today I woke up and went straight to the Bodleian and stayed there for close to six hours. I got to go into Duke Humphrey's Library, which is the Harry Potter Library. It was pretty awesome. Sorry though - couldn't get pictures. I did lots of research. Lots of it. Then grabbed a quick bit to eat from a nearby store before walking to the house before dinner. Yes, I ate before dinner. Dinner was alright. It's so much different with all the students here now! They got back on Sunday and dinner has become so loud! It'll be nice to get to know some of them.
I'm trying to figure out what club/athletic I want to join. I could do soccer with Kat. I could do fencing or ballroom dancing. I could just do nothing. But I want to get involved somehow. Especially if lots of others are.
I have a meeting with my tutors tomorrow and Wednesday! I'm so nervous! I hope they don't quiz me on stuff. I only know history right now! I haven't been keeping up on the news, or Chinese - there's just so much stuff that needs to be done!
And most of us are going to have papers due the first meeting with our tutors. And we'll be finishing up our seminar papers. I have one due Wednesday for Archer, and the big one that I've been researching a lot for for Ehlers due Friday at midnight.
It's just paper after paper.
But it's a lot of fun. No joke.
Dave and I are going to be on the same flight back home in August. I'm super happy about that. And now I need to work and not procrastinate via this.
What have I been up too?
Writing papers, reading - the usual. The last Archer paper I did was just confusing. I did so much research and it just confused me more! I think I ended up doing it alright, and it at least sounded good. I suppose I'll get my grade back tomorrow, but who knows. I know a lot of people didn't finish it - mainly the Bradshaw kids. I am so glad I'm not one of them. They just read and read and don't have time for anything else.
Friday though, Kat did talk me into going out. Not all of us went (see Bradshaw comment above), but I went out and met some Keble kids, and had some drinks, and had a pretty good time. We then got kababs and went back to the house. Some people were so drunk. It was pretty amusing. I played Dawgopoly with two of the Keble guys and Zach, one of the guys here. I wanted to play Risk but they scoffed.
Saturday was retail-therapy day and sleeping-in. Especially because we've been staying up until like 4am (7am in Kat's case). We went shopping at Primark and bought lots of stuff! I spent 60 quid...in clothes. But I go a lot! I got 2 pashminas, 2 pairs of shoes [one flat, one boot], 2 pairs of pajamas, socks, seamless socks, a loufa, a pencil skirt, a rain jacket, a cami, and linen shorts. It's pretty awesome at Primark. I also bought a bike from one of the grad students for 30 quid, but I have to go have a tube replaced. So that'll be happening tomorrow. Saturday night I didn't go out, though most other people did. I stayed in and watched three movies and went through the grad students leftovers and got like four bottles of liquor. It was pretty good.
Sunday, we all worked. Played some late-night soccer outside on the lawn.
Today I woke up and went straight to the Bodleian and stayed there for close to six hours. I got to go into Duke Humphrey's Library, which is the Harry Potter Library. It was pretty awesome. Sorry though - couldn't get pictures. I did lots of research. Lots of it. Then grabbed a quick bit to eat from a nearby store before walking to the house before dinner. Yes, I ate before dinner. Dinner was alright. It's so much different with all the students here now! They got back on Sunday and dinner has become so loud! It'll be nice to get to know some of them.
I'm trying to figure out what club/athletic I want to join. I could do soccer with Kat. I could do fencing or ballroom dancing. I could just do nothing. But I want to get involved somehow. Especially if lots of others are.
I have a meeting with my tutors tomorrow and Wednesday! I'm so nervous! I hope they don't quiz me on stuff. I only know history right now! I haven't been keeping up on the news, or Chinese - there's just so much stuff that needs to be done!
And most of us are going to have papers due the first meeting with our tutors. And we'll be finishing up our seminar papers. I have one due Wednesday for Archer, and the big one that I've been researching a lot for for Ehlers due Friday at midnight.
It's just paper after paper.
But it's a lot of fun. No joke.
Dave and I are going to be on the same flight back home in August. I'm super happy about that. And now I need to work and not procrastinate via this.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Day grades
In both of my classes today, we got back our grades.
I didn't do awfully (B and A-), but I didn't do as well as I would've liked. And the comments weren't bad - which just confused me a little more. I think they're easy enough things to correct though, which bodes well for the future. And they both liked my style/voice which is always a good thing.
And yet, we're already on to the next paper. I'm starting research for Archer's next one tomorrow all-day, hopefully starting to write it as well and coming up with a topic for Ehler's tomorrow as well. Well, I kind of have a topic, but I think I'd like to talk with him more about it. See exactly what primary documents to use.
Had a little drama this evening with Maggie and Caroline getting completely trashed and then bringing Keble kids into the house and my room. That's a big no-no.
Also had a meeting via Skype with my research group, which is progressing well. It was nice to see them again. Also talked with Leilah over HTF things. Gotta do that stuff this weekend. Also need to run to STA Travel, give receipts, and go shopping at Primark. Woo hoo!
Look, the weekend already all gone.
I really wish the kids here weren't so competative/comparative. We should all just be happy with what we get and not have a need to compare. I was happy until people forced me to compare. Then I felt inadaquete and stupid. I know I shouldn't - but once I'm in that mindset, it's hard to come out of it.
But all I can do is give it my best. I work hard and I work hard for the right reasons. All I can give is my all, and if I'm not the best, at least I do it with the most heart. (Yeah, it's my new kind of mantra. I'm trying.)
Money spent today: None - only left the house for lunch and dinner and Archer's class.
I didn't do awfully (B and A-), but I didn't do as well as I would've liked. And the comments weren't bad - which just confused me a little more. I think they're easy enough things to correct though, which bodes well for the future. And they both liked my style/voice which is always a good thing.
And yet, we're already on to the next paper. I'm starting research for Archer's next one tomorrow all-day, hopefully starting to write it as well and coming up with a topic for Ehler's tomorrow as well. Well, I kind of have a topic, but I think I'd like to talk with him more about it. See exactly what primary documents to use.
Had a little drama this evening with Maggie and Caroline getting completely trashed and then bringing Keble kids into the house and my room. That's a big no-no.
Also had a meeting via Skype with my research group, which is progressing well. It was nice to see them again. Also talked with Leilah over HTF things. Gotta do that stuff this weekend. Also need to run to STA Travel, give receipts, and go shopping at Primark. Woo hoo!
Look, the weekend already all gone.
I really wish the kids here weren't so competative/comparative. We should all just be happy with what we get and not have a need to compare. I was happy until people forced me to compare. Then I felt inadaquete and stupid. I know I shouldn't - but once I'm in that mindset, it's hard to come out of it.
But all I can do is give it my best. I work hard and I work hard for the right reasons. All I can give is my all, and if I'm not the best, at least I do it with the most heart. (Yeah, it's my new kind of mantra. I'm trying.)
Money spent today: None - only left the house for lunch and dinner and Archer's class.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Day something : Money
I will update this with more substantial things but right now, I need to keep track of money:
Friday:
15 quid - dinner (includes tip)
6.30 quid - taxi (need 3 quid back from Ande)
Saturday:
3.80 quid - kebabs
Sunday:
Nothing
Today:
Withdrew 200 quid
16.92 quid - groceries
4.47 quid - groceries
Friday:
15 quid - dinner (includes tip)
6.30 quid - taxi (need 3 quid back from Ande)
Saturday:
3.80 quid - kebabs
Sunday:
Nothing
Today:
Withdrew 200 quid
16.92 quid - groceries
4.47 quid - groceries
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Day Essay : Paragraph one down
I am very glad that I actually managed time somewhat effectively last week. Last weekend I wrote Dr. Archer's paper, and so turned it in on Tuesday. That, along with Dr. Ehlers paper, are due tomorrow. I, however, just began writing Dr. Ehler's paper today (which is the day it was originally due). If I had to worry about two papers, I think I would be blown a gasket.
People aren't sleeping around here. I'm up and one of my roommates is up, both of us working on this paper. It's 4:15am here. I'm just happy I don't have class tomorrow.
I do have all day tomorrow to work on it, but I may have to go to the Bodleian to check out a source, as well, as having to actually edit the paper. I just hit page 5, and it has to be between 8-10 pages long. I think I should make it. The history took the longest part - now I start the analysis of the justification.
It's an odd topic, and I'm not sure I'm doing the paper right. I think I'm going to tell him so. I've just never had to do a paper like this and so I've been constantly confused about what exactly we're supposed to do.
Going to bed soon (I am one of the people around here who actually sleeps), getting up for lunch (which we have to buy ourselves as Keble is on holiday for Easter), and then sitting down to finish writing the essay and editing it. That should take most of the night. But I think I'll get it in before midnight. Unless I like sleep until 5pm or something. That would suck.
People aren't sleeping around here. I'm up and one of my roommates is up, both of us working on this paper. It's 4:15am here. I'm just happy I don't have class tomorrow.
I do have all day tomorrow to work on it, but I may have to go to the Bodleian to check out a source, as well, as having to actually edit the paper. I just hit page 5, and it has to be between 8-10 pages long. I think I should make it. The history took the longest part - now I start the analysis of the justification.
It's an odd topic, and I'm not sure I'm doing the paper right. I think I'm going to tell him so. I've just never had to do a paper like this and so I've been constantly confused about what exactly we're supposed to do.
Going to bed soon (I am one of the people around here who actually sleeps), getting up for lunch (which we have to buy ourselves as Keble is on holiday for Easter), and then sitting down to finish writing the essay and editing it. That should take most of the night. But I think I'll get it in before midnight. Unless I like sleep until 5pm or something. That would suck.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Day whatever : It really doesn't stop
Last night, I fell asleep talking to Dave. Oops. I didn't even realize how tired I was. It was about quarter to 4, I think, and I had still been reading stuff for my Philip/Elizabeth class so that I could concentrate on the essay for today.
I actually woke up at 10, finished the readings for my Philip/Elizabeth class and then head to lunch. I think we talked about Harry Potter most of the way, during lunch, and then Ande and I did on the way to the post office. I mailed some postcards for much cheaper than I thought it would be. I hope they get to people. I don't have addresses right now, so it was only to people that I knew addresses for. heh.
Ande and I wait outside Christ Church (pictures will be up someday, I promise!) for our class to go on an Elizabethan Tour around Oxford. It was just to Christ Church and St. Mary's Cathedral, but it was nice. Dr. Ehlers kind of snuck us in without having to pay. It was kind of hilarious. He told us about the history of the place, about some bones and such, and Elizabeth giving a speech in the Cathedral. It was very interesting and kind of cool to be like "Elizabeth was right there giving a speech...right there!"
I then when back to the house, where I tried to work. I finished my readings for Archer's class and then I realized something...one of the things that I printed out for Ehler's class was three chapters long...and the syllabus only said to read one chapter! I had wasted the entire morning reading something I didn't even need to read! Gah! I was not very pleased with that, but whatever.
I'm really glad that I did Archer's paper early. If I had to turn that into tomorrow as well, I would be so stressed that I'd be crying. All of tomorrow. I just figured out how exactly I'm going to write Ehler's paper which is due on Friday at midnight, so that's nice. I'm going to outline it tonight kind-of, and probably write the introduction to it as well. I think I'll be able to crank out 8 pages though. The hard part was figuring out how to use the source though for me.
At dinner everyone forgot me so I walked alone and kind of ate alone. I talked to Julian, this Keble guy, for a bit 'cause he knew I was a Georgia kid. He invited me to a party (I think the first one ever, really) but I had to do this paper. Which I haven't really done.
So now I'm going to read through my sources and do that outline! It may not seem like a lot of work, but it is. And time just flies by. I mean...I've never felt time go so fast before!
I'm going to upload some pictures as well to facebook and probably to Picasa for those of you with no facebook.
I actually woke up at 10, finished the readings for my Philip/Elizabeth class and then head to lunch. I think we talked about Harry Potter most of the way, during lunch, and then Ande and I did on the way to the post office. I mailed some postcards for much cheaper than I thought it would be. I hope they get to people. I don't have addresses right now, so it was only to people that I knew addresses for. heh.
Ande and I wait outside Christ Church (pictures will be up someday, I promise!) for our class to go on an Elizabethan Tour around Oxford. It was just to Christ Church and St. Mary's Cathedral, but it was nice. Dr. Ehlers kind of snuck us in without having to pay. It was kind of hilarious. He told us about the history of the place, about some bones and such, and Elizabeth giving a speech in the Cathedral. It was very interesting and kind of cool to be like "Elizabeth was right there giving a speech...right there!"
I then when back to the house, where I tried to work. I finished my readings for Archer's class and then I realized something...one of the things that I printed out for Ehler's class was three chapters long...and the syllabus only said to read one chapter! I had wasted the entire morning reading something I didn't even need to read! Gah! I was not very pleased with that, but whatever.
I'm really glad that I did Archer's paper early. If I had to turn that into tomorrow as well, I would be so stressed that I'd be crying. All of tomorrow. I just figured out how exactly I'm going to write Ehler's paper which is due on Friday at midnight, so that's nice. I'm going to outline it tonight kind-of, and probably write the introduction to it as well. I think I'll be able to crank out 8 pages though. The hard part was figuring out how to use the source though for me.
At dinner everyone forgot me so I walked alone and kind of ate alone. I talked to Julian, this Keble guy, for a bit 'cause he knew I was a Georgia kid. He invited me to a party (I think the first one ever, really) but I had to do this paper. Which I haven't really done.
So now I'm going to read through my sources and do that outline! It may not seem like a lot of work, but it is. And time just flies by. I mean...I've never felt time go so fast before!
I'm going to upload some pictures as well to facebook and probably to Picasa for those of you with no facebook.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Day 5 - Day 14? : Sleeping doesn't happen
Why have I not updated you ask? Work.
I knew Oxford was going to be a lot of work, but this is a lot of work. It's all we talk about here. It's hard to talk about anything else. Between classes you're sleeping or reading for your next class, or at dinner you're talking about how much ahead other people are, or just how many sources you're using in your next paper.
It's constant and unrelenting.
It's really nothing you'll find at school. I've been stressed before (as I usually am, actually) but this is intense for only two classes. Then again, in the space of 8 classes, we're doing a semesters worth of learning. Of course it's going to be difficult. You just don't get that til you're here.
I actually deal with stress much better than people here. They get sick and have nose bleeds and take medication. See, Mom, I'm not that bad!
So what have I been up to this past week and almost a half?
Reading, walking, sleeping when I can, eating when I can, some shopping, a mass, more reading, more reading, writing, some beer, and lots of failing Skype.
There really isn't anything much to say, other than how much I'm reading. I feel like if I can actually post everyday, it's going to be like "I read 200 pages today on Philip and Elizabeth, along with writing a paper for..." at least for another two 1/2 weeks.
The grad students don't much like us. They say we work too hard.
The weather's been steadily nice, though apparently it's supposed to rain here bad soon.
Skype sucks.
I miss lunches a lot because I sleep in.
Primark is the cheapest place to buy most anything. I'm going to look for some boots, maybe a purse, and a rainjacket! Already got some undies, and two shirts there for under 5 pounds.
Kat and I are thinking of going to Bath for a day trip on Friday or Saturday. It depends though - we may go to Dover or Brighton instead, who knows!
Also planning on going to the Chatworth House (Pemberely in the new Pride & Prejudice movie) hopefully to see a European equestrian championship there too! How awesome.
Also got tickets to see John Barrowman in concert. It's gorgeous and gay and in Doctor Who/Torchwood. It cost 32 pounds, but will be so worth it.
I have to go finish reading about 200 pages tonight before I can sleep. I should have pictures up as soon as I get some free time to have the patience to upload them!
I knew Oxford was going to be a lot of work, but this is a lot of work. It's all we talk about here. It's hard to talk about anything else. Between classes you're sleeping or reading for your next class, or at dinner you're talking about how much ahead other people are, or just how many sources you're using in your next paper.
It's constant and unrelenting.
It's really nothing you'll find at school. I've been stressed before (as I usually am, actually) but this is intense for only two classes. Then again, in the space of 8 classes, we're doing a semesters worth of learning. Of course it's going to be difficult. You just don't get that til you're here.
I actually deal with stress much better than people here. They get sick and have nose bleeds and take medication. See, Mom, I'm not that bad!
So what have I been up to this past week and almost a half?
Reading, walking, sleeping when I can, eating when I can, some shopping, a mass, more reading, more reading, writing, some beer, and lots of failing Skype.
There really isn't anything much to say, other than how much I'm reading. I feel like if I can actually post everyday, it's going to be like "I read 200 pages today on Philip and Elizabeth, along with writing a paper for..." at least for another two 1/2 weeks.
The grad students don't much like us. They say we work too hard.
The weather's been steadily nice, though apparently it's supposed to rain here bad soon.
Skype sucks.
I miss lunches a lot because I sleep in.
Primark is the cheapest place to buy most anything. I'm going to look for some boots, maybe a purse, and a rainjacket! Already got some undies, and two shirts there for under 5 pounds.
Kat and I are thinking of going to Bath for a day trip on Friday or Saturday. It depends though - we may go to Dover or Brighton instead, who knows!
Also planning on going to the Chatworth House (Pemberely in the new Pride & Prejudice movie) hopefully to see a European equestrian championship there too! How awesome.
Also got tickets to see John Barrowman in concert. It's gorgeous and gay and in Doctor Who/Torchwood. It cost 32 pounds, but will be so worth it.
I have to go finish reading about 200 pages tonight before I can sleep. I should have pictures up as soon as I get some free time to have the patience to upload them!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Day 4: Tea Time
Well, even though the day isn't over, I figure it's time I did one of these on the actual day for once.
Today was a relatively uneventful day, as I suspect more and more of the coming days to be. The entries will be shorter (try not to shout for joy there) and more gaps in-between. I woke up at 11 this morning to get ready for brunch at Keble Hall. We were a little late for that, but because it's buffet it didn't much matter. It was an interesting breakfast - heavier than normal. We only get breakfast-like food on Sunday though, which kind of sucks. I bought some cereal and nutella though, so I should be set.
After brunch, we decide to go back to the house quickly to look up some information. Kat needed books and I needed to find a photocopy place because I had accidentally stolen someone else's packet for Archer's class - because of a mishap with me in the wrong class. I really am the problem child. Finally found one and I had to photocopy 19 pounds of papers. It was about 250 sheets. A lot. Then Kat and Kelsey and I went to the oldest room in Oxford which is now a tea shop before Kelsey and I were to catch mass at Keble. We all read some of the books we needed for class and it got chilly so we headed over to Keble early. Unfortuently, though we had good intentions, mass at Keble is only during term. Bummer. So, we didn't get to go. I'll have to try one of the morning ones next week, though that'll suck. Hopefully they'll be going on. I may check earlier in the week, I suppose.
We had a nice walk around town though during the day, and I did a lot of reading, so it was a boring, but productive day. Got some of my schedule sorted out.
The biggest thing now is flights for Shanghai. I just don't know what to do about that. I'll probably be going to STA sometime this week and talking to someone about flights. So now off to do more reading. Good thing I don't have classes Monday's!
Today was a relatively uneventful day, as I suspect more and more of the coming days to be. The entries will be shorter (try not to shout for joy there) and more gaps in-between. I woke up at 11 this morning to get ready for brunch at Keble Hall. We were a little late for that, but because it's buffet it didn't much matter. It was an interesting breakfast - heavier than normal. We only get breakfast-like food on Sunday though, which kind of sucks. I bought some cereal and nutella though, so I should be set.
After brunch, we decide to go back to the house quickly to look up some information. Kat needed books and I needed to find a photocopy place because I had accidentally stolen someone else's packet for Archer's class - because of a mishap with me in the wrong class. I really am the problem child. Finally found one and I had to photocopy 19 pounds of papers. It was about 250 sheets. A lot. Then Kat and Kelsey and I went to the oldest room in Oxford which is now a tea shop before Kelsey and I were to catch mass at Keble. We all read some of the books we needed for class and it got chilly so we headed over to Keble early. Unfortuently, though we had good intentions, mass at Keble is only during term. Bummer. So, we didn't get to go. I'll have to try one of the morning ones next week, though that'll suck. Hopefully they'll be going on. I may check earlier in the week, I suppose.
We had a nice walk around town though during the day, and I did a lot of reading, so it was a boring, but productive day. Got some of my schedule sorted out.
The biggest thing now is flights for Shanghai. I just don't know what to do about that. I'll probably be going to STA sometime this week and talking to someone about flights. So now off to do more reading. Good thing I don't have classes Monday's!
Day 3: Stonehenge
I wish I could upload pictures for everyone to see! This day was probably the nicest, funniest, and beautiful day so far. How much does that mean? I have no idea - it's only day 3!
We got up (on time!) and made our way downstairs to the group to get on a charter bus to head to Salisbury, Old Sarum, and Stonehenge. After a little reading and a cat nap, we make it to Salisbury where we see a doomsday painting (very interesting, I must say) and then head out to lunch. Kat, Ande, and I try and find somewhere to eat...wander around a lot and find this nice bar and there is the other half of the group we split up from. We just took the scenic route. It was a quaint, adorable, older than our country town. I had a half-pint of a beer called "Doom Bar," which was the local brew, with my lunch, which was alright.
We had fifteen minutes to be at the Cathedral, which was this big spire that we just kept going towards. Kind of like the star at Christ's birth. Anyway, we pass the place William Golding (Princess Bride) was headmaster at and then turn slightly and BAM! There's the Cathedral. It was absolutly gorgeous. I can't even try to explain how beautiful it is because my words won't do it justice. As soon as I can, I'll upload pictures.
We're waiting outside, taking pictures and such, and it goes from almost blindingly sunny to hailing. I mean in the space of two minutes. Hailing. It was kind of hysterical. We go inside, look around, see the Magna Carta, and then head to Old Sarum.
Old Sarum was super windy! It is one of the oldest establishments (or was) in Briton. Very, very old ruins. Pretty nice to see though. And the view of Salisbury was beautiful.
Off to Stonehenge! It was a lot bigger than I thought, actually. It was very interesting to finally see, though it's kind of like Disneyland. Like "Ok, you're here!" right off the road. One minute you see sheep, the next giant rocks. It was freezing though, and since you have a hand-held audio tour in one hand and a camera in the other, my hands were frozen off. I got a lot of pictures though, I believe. Again, up when I can get them up.
Then back home, where we could have made dinner at Keble, but didn't book ahead so had to go out. Kat and I walked around a lot, got some mroe groceries, and got food from the Kabab stand. Oh, it was very good.
I concked out kind of early while reading Phillip II. I think I must've gotten like 10 hours of sleep. It was kind of nice.
We got up (on time!) and made our way downstairs to the group to get on a charter bus to head to Salisbury, Old Sarum, and Stonehenge. After a little reading and a cat nap, we make it to Salisbury where we see a doomsday painting (very interesting, I must say) and then head out to lunch. Kat, Ande, and I try and find somewhere to eat...wander around a lot and find this nice bar and there is the other half of the group we split up from. We just took the scenic route. It was a quaint, adorable, older than our country town. I had a half-pint of a beer called "Doom Bar," which was the local brew, with my lunch, which was alright.
We had fifteen minutes to be at the Cathedral, which was this big spire that we just kept going towards. Kind of like the star at Christ's birth. Anyway, we pass the place William Golding (Princess Bride) was headmaster at and then turn slightly and BAM! There's the Cathedral. It was absolutly gorgeous. I can't even try to explain how beautiful it is because my words won't do it justice. As soon as I can, I'll upload pictures.
We're waiting outside, taking pictures and such, and it goes from almost blindingly sunny to hailing. I mean in the space of two minutes. Hailing. It was kind of hysterical. We go inside, look around, see the Magna Carta, and then head to Old Sarum.
Old Sarum was super windy! It is one of the oldest establishments (or was) in Briton. Very, very old ruins. Pretty nice to see though. And the view of Salisbury was beautiful.
Off to Stonehenge! It was a lot bigger than I thought, actually. It was very interesting to finally see, though it's kind of like Disneyland. Like "Ok, you're here!" right off the road. One minute you see sheep, the next giant rocks. It was freezing though, and since you have a hand-held audio tour in one hand and a camera in the other, my hands were frozen off. I got a lot of pictures though, I believe. Again, up when I can get them up.
Then back home, where we could have made dinner at Keble, but didn't book ahead so had to go out. Kat and I walked around a lot, got some mroe groceries, and got food from the Kabab stand. Oh, it was very good.
I concked out kind of early while reading Phillip II. I think I must've gotten like 10 hours of sleep. It was kind of nice.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Day 2: Oxford
Today (actually yesterday now) started out a little iffy but then got tremendously better.
Kat and I both woke up late, and getting ready I slammed my head into our sloped ceiling in the bathroom. Not very pleased and un-awake, I headed downstairs to grab some water before we left. In the kitchen with most everyone else, Jamie comes in, finds me and says "I have good news." Instantly awake, I reply "They found it?!" "Yup. The police called this morning...someone turned it in."
I did a little dance there in the kitchen with everyone. It was pretty funny.
We all head out for our walking tour of Oxford. It was nice weather for a tour, though I'm always going to be saying that it's chilly out. After seeing some places, we split for lunch which is when Jamie and Ryan walked me to the police station. And there I got my passport back! I then had lunch with Jamie, Ryan, and Dr. Ehlers who is one of my teachers. It was super cold, but nice. I accidentally ate meat. Oops.
We then did more chapels and colleges and such and then split up to do our own thing until dinner at 6:00. I went with Kat, Kelsey, and Andy to see Blackwells, which is pretty awesome, though a little expensive. I didn't buy the books I need for my classes there because I can get them at Keble for free. Andy left, and so the rest of us continued to find a pay-as-you-go phone. Kat and Kelsey got one - I just liked looking. We then went back to the house and Mrs. Barabara, our house mother, asked me if I had any news as soon as I walked in the door. I said I did and we laughed and she said how much happier I looked. She's so super nice.
Then we went to Keble, which is probably the awesomest college of them all. The dining hall was the one that the directors wanted as Harry Potter's Great Hall. Haha! Of course, Keble wouldn't let them so they went to Christ Church instead. Dinner was a little weird (friend cheese) because I got the Vegetarian (Lent). We then went to the bar and most people had a drink, but Andy, Kelsey, and Kat and I went to the library. We found the books we needed but we couldn't check them out for some reason, so we're going back tonight for them. I just hope no one took them!
We then came back towards the house, passed it to go to the Co-op for some food. We got some essential stuff, which we're mostly splitting. I also got Squash! And Aero! And chrisps! It's very nice. Kat got wine and we had wine up in our room. I think Kat and I drank about three-halfs of the bottle. Kelsey only had a little bit. We read, studied, didn't study and went to bed!
I also found out yesterday that I left the cord that goes from computer to camera at home...so that's going to have to wait until Mom mails it or I find a new one before I can post pictures. Sorry guys!
Kat and I both woke up late, and getting ready I slammed my head into our sloped ceiling in the bathroom. Not very pleased and un-awake, I headed downstairs to grab some water before we left. In the kitchen with most everyone else, Jamie comes in, finds me and says "I have good news." Instantly awake, I reply "They found it?!" "Yup. The police called this morning...someone turned it in."
I did a little dance there in the kitchen with everyone. It was pretty funny.
We all head out for our walking tour of Oxford. It was nice weather for a tour, though I'm always going to be saying that it's chilly out. After seeing some places, we split for lunch which is when Jamie and Ryan walked me to the police station. And there I got my passport back! I then had lunch with Jamie, Ryan, and Dr. Ehlers who is one of my teachers. It was super cold, but nice. I accidentally ate meat. Oops.
We then did more chapels and colleges and such and then split up to do our own thing until dinner at 6:00. I went with Kat, Kelsey, and Andy to see Blackwells, which is pretty awesome, though a little expensive. I didn't buy the books I need for my classes there because I can get them at Keble for free. Andy left, and so the rest of us continued to find a pay-as-you-go phone. Kat and Kelsey got one - I just liked looking. We then went back to the house and Mrs. Barabara, our house mother, asked me if I had any news as soon as I walked in the door. I said I did and we laughed and she said how much happier I looked. She's so super nice.
Then we went to Keble, which is probably the awesomest college of them all. The dining hall was the one that the directors wanted as Harry Potter's Great Hall. Haha! Of course, Keble wouldn't let them so they went to Christ Church instead. Dinner was a little weird (friend cheese) because I got the Vegetarian (Lent). We then went to the bar and most people had a drink, but Andy, Kelsey, and Kat and I went to the library. We found the books we needed but we couldn't check them out for some reason, so we're going back tonight for them. I just hope no one took them!
We then came back towards the house, passed it to go to the Co-op for some food. We got some essential stuff, which we're mostly splitting. I also got Squash! And Aero! And chrisps! It's very nice. Kat got wine and we had wine up in our room. I think Kat and I drank about three-halfs of the bottle. Kelsey only had a little bit. We read, studied, didn't study and went to bed!
I also found out yesterday that I left the cord that goes from computer to camera at home...so that's going to have to wait until Mom mails it or I find a new one before I can post pictures. Sorry guys!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Day 1 : Airplane!
First of all, I am well and sitting in my new room in the Georgia Center in Oxford. It's been a tough day and a good day. And a long day. This post is going to be kind of quick (hopefully) because I am exhausted and want to sleep.
I started packing, of course, Tuesday night. I got almost everything packed, but finished in the morning. Luckily, after reworking stuffs, I got everything in in under 50 lbs on my big suitcase. Yeah, that's right. Mom and I head to the airport (hopefully have everything!) and I am so glad I did the online check-in. I was the only one in my line and just had to give them my bags and get my boarding card. Well, not so easy. The lady checking passports asked me if I had a return flight. I said no, it's a one-way ticket. She then wrote "SSSS" on my passport sticker and I got the same initials on the boarding card. I had to go through super special security.
Mom and I head to lunch - Goodbye American food! - at Chili's. Got currency before that. And then head to the security. Well, in security they didn't give me the extra check like I thought they would. When I get to the gate however, they call me to the desk and tell me something about a hole in my card and TSA having to come down to the gate. So TSA did and performed the pat-down, go through the luggage, etc. right there in front of the gate...in front of everyone...in front of a gaggle of high-school boys on tour and their parents just staring at me as I get patted down. It was a mixture of hilarity, embarassment, and anger. But whatever. Nothing I could do.
Had a nice seat, was calling after I should have turned the phone off (oops!), and met some nice people. Our plane was relatively empty and a lot of people got whole rows to themselves. I got about 2 seats - really 1 1/2. Watched some of Eagle Eye and High School Musical 3. I could not fall asleep though. I turned every which way, exhausted, and could not sleep. I think I slept a bit, but not sure how long. Had breakfast (oh, forgot to mention the wine with dinner...) and landed in Gatwick.
Here's where things get rough.
Immigration took forever. It took about 45 minutes to an hour to go through not even 100 people. Yet the UK/EU side flew through. I mean like 500 people out in 10 minutes. Ridiculous. Go up to baggage claim and try to find my luggage with this other guy who is working hospitals in London and ws on my flight. Now my suitcase is big, pretty big, black, shiny, and hard-cased. When I went to look I didn't see that. I saw my small bag, but not the big one. I kind of freaked out, found the suitcase problem station and the gentlemen told me that it was probably on the Orlando flight coming in after mine. I told him I would wait since I didn't have to be at the Oxford House until 4:00pm and it was only 8:30 or so. I wait...and wait...a good half-hour, maybe more. Finally, I go towards where the Orlando flights baggage is coming in and see the gentlemen moitioning to me. It turns out the crew took my baggage, realized when they were in customs that it wasn't theirs and took it back to the plane where they found it. Or something. Anyway, I got it back.
Leave there. Try to reach Mom on a payphone to no avail (I've been on the ground for almost two hours) and try to find a bus to Oxford. I just miss the 9 o'clock one and have to wait another hour until the 10:15 one. That comes, a lady helps me figure out where to go, etc. and I sleep for an hour on the bus. We arrive in Oxford. Ooooh. Aaah. I'll show pictures later. I get off the bus, manage somehow with my luggage (two suitcases, a duffle bag, and a purse) towards the taxi's across cobblestone. Manage to get into a taxi and he takes me to the center.
Jamie answers the door when I arrive (he worked at the UGA at Oxford Office and is staying here for a week or two) and we chat a bit. Maggie had called me right as I was getting on the plane about being on the charter bus. I knew I wouldn't make it as I was an hour behind them, but they thought I thought I would make it. So Jamie had been calling a lot and Maggie too. I told them no problem, but could I use the phone to call my Mom? Of course. Call Mom. Meet Mrs. Barabara Bradshaw, who is kind of like a house Mother, and is super nice. Get my luggage upstairs.
Can't find my passport.
Go back downstairs, exhausted and trying not to ust out crying, and tell Jamie. He says he'll call the bus company. Go upstairs. Cry. Unpack. Meet two of the three roommates (the other doesn't arrive until 5ish). Unpack some more. Get settled. Nap. I am starving, really, at this point, as I haven't eaten anything since before the plane landed. And my leg is acting funny. I don't think I stood up enough on the plane.
A house meeting, talk, get aquainted, etc. Then dinner! Woo hoo! Talk with Jamie somemore about the passport. Apparently in wasn't on the bus like I thought it would be. But, he said it'll take a couple of days for the police to get it through their system if they have it. I don't see why someone would have stolen it because they didn't take anything else. I think it fell out of my pocket or purse. Hopefully someone found it. Especially because it has my Chinese Visa in it. And I don't have the money to get a new passport AND a new Visa. Jamie says don't worry, getting a new one isn't a problem.
But I like my passport...
A whole bunch of us go to a pub down near City Centre called Turf Tavern where I order my first beer! I just asked the bartender what he liked and he picked the house beer, Turf Tavern Summer Ale. It was alright. I drank it all. Tried some of the others. There was a nice pear cider.
Kat, Andy, Kelsey and I decide to leave as it's 10:00 and head back for sleep. We get lost. End up going this huge roundabout way. But, we do see some beautiful architecture that we didn't before. Oh, I'll take more pictures and put them up here (my battery is dead). Also, as we're walking, this guy suddenly goes "Are you all from Georgia?" It's dark and he's behind us now, but I recognized his voice. It was Deep Shah! He said he recognized me from somewhere, and we chatted a bit. It was seriously conicidental, and also because Oxford isn't in term yet. Pretty cool though!
So here I am. In my a-little-bit chilly room, ready to sleep. It's the best room in the house. Big, even for four girls, with a nice bathroom and a great view. I have plenty of space for my stuff. And the bed's very comfortable. All important stuff.
I have my class schedule. It shifts each week. It's a little weird. I have a lot of reading to do before Tuesday, but we have Sunday and Monday off, so that's nice. Ummm...well, that's it for day 1 . Some tours and such tomorrow. I may call the police and see if they've found anything. I feel so stupid that I lost it. And I should have photocopied the Chinese Visa. I just...I really hope it's found. I definetly learned my lesson though.
I started packing, of course, Tuesday night. I got almost everything packed, but finished in the morning. Luckily, after reworking stuffs, I got everything in in under 50 lbs on my big suitcase. Yeah, that's right. Mom and I head to the airport (hopefully have everything!) and I am so glad I did the online check-in. I was the only one in my line and just had to give them my bags and get my boarding card. Well, not so easy. The lady checking passports asked me if I had a return flight. I said no, it's a one-way ticket. She then wrote "SSSS" on my passport sticker and I got the same initials on the boarding card. I had to go through super special security.
Mom and I head to lunch - Goodbye American food! - at Chili's. Got currency before that. And then head to the security. Well, in security they didn't give me the extra check like I thought they would. When I get to the gate however, they call me to the desk and tell me something about a hole in my card and TSA having to come down to the gate. So TSA did and performed the pat-down, go through the luggage, etc. right there in front of the gate...in front of everyone...in front of a gaggle of high-school boys on tour and their parents just staring at me as I get patted down. It was a mixture of hilarity, embarassment, and anger. But whatever. Nothing I could do.
Had a nice seat, was calling after I should have turned the phone off (oops!), and met some nice people. Our plane was relatively empty and a lot of people got whole rows to themselves. I got about 2 seats - really 1 1/2. Watched some of Eagle Eye and High School Musical 3. I could not fall asleep though. I turned every which way, exhausted, and could not sleep. I think I slept a bit, but not sure how long. Had breakfast (oh, forgot to mention the wine with dinner...) and landed in Gatwick.
Here's where things get rough.
Immigration took forever. It took about 45 minutes to an hour to go through not even 100 people. Yet the UK/EU side flew through. I mean like 500 people out in 10 minutes. Ridiculous. Go up to baggage claim and try to find my luggage with this other guy who is working hospitals in London and ws on my flight. Now my suitcase is big, pretty big, black, shiny, and hard-cased. When I went to look I didn't see that. I saw my small bag, but not the big one. I kind of freaked out, found the suitcase problem station and the gentlemen told me that it was probably on the Orlando flight coming in after mine. I told him I would wait since I didn't have to be at the Oxford House until 4:00pm and it was only 8:30 or so. I wait...and wait...a good half-hour, maybe more. Finally, I go towards where the Orlando flights baggage is coming in and see the gentlemen moitioning to me. It turns out the crew took my baggage, realized when they were in customs that it wasn't theirs and took it back to the plane where they found it. Or something. Anyway, I got it back.
Leave there. Try to reach Mom on a payphone to no avail (I've been on the ground for almost two hours) and try to find a bus to Oxford. I just miss the 9 o'clock one and have to wait another hour until the 10:15 one. That comes, a lady helps me figure out where to go, etc. and I sleep for an hour on the bus. We arrive in Oxford. Ooooh. Aaah. I'll show pictures later. I get off the bus, manage somehow with my luggage (two suitcases, a duffle bag, and a purse) towards the taxi's across cobblestone. Manage to get into a taxi and he takes me to the center.
Jamie answers the door when I arrive (he worked at the UGA at Oxford Office and is staying here for a week or two) and we chat a bit. Maggie had called me right as I was getting on the plane about being on the charter bus. I knew I wouldn't make it as I was an hour behind them, but they thought I thought I would make it. So Jamie had been calling a lot and Maggie too. I told them no problem, but could I use the phone to call my Mom? Of course. Call Mom. Meet Mrs. Barabara Bradshaw, who is kind of like a house Mother, and is super nice. Get my luggage upstairs.
Can't find my passport.
Go back downstairs, exhausted and trying not to ust out crying, and tell Jamie. He says he'll call the bus company. Go upstairs. Cry. Unpack. Meet two of the three roommates (the other doesn't arrive until 5ish). Unpack some more. Get settled. Nap. I am starving, really, at this point, as I haven't eaten anything since before the plane landed. And my leg is acting funny. I don't think I stood up enough on the plane.
A house meeting, talk, get aquainted, etc. Then dinner! Woo hoo! Talk with Jamie somemore about the passport. Apparently in wasn't on the bus like I thought it would be. But, he said it'll take a couple of days for the police to get it through their system if they have it. I don't see why someone would have stolen it because they didn't take anything else. I think it fell out of my pocket or purse. Hopefully someone found it. Especially because it has my Chinese Visa in it. And I don't have the money to get a new passport AND a new Visa. Jamie says don't worry, getting a new one isn't a problem.
But I like my passport...
A whole bunch of us go to a pub down near City Centre called Turf Tavern where I order my first beer! I just asked the bartender what he liked and he picked the house beer, Turf Tavern Summer Ale. It was alright. I drank it all. Tried some of the others. There was a nice pear cider.
Kat, Andy, Kelsey and I decide to leave as it's 10:00 and head back for sleep. We get lost. End up going this huge roundabout way. But, we do see some beautiful architecture that we didn't before. Oh, I'll take more pictures and put them up here (my battery is dead). Also, as we're walking, this guy suddenly goes "Are you all from Georgia?" It's dark and he's behind us now, but I recognized his voice. It was Deep Shah! He said he recognized me from somewhere, and we chatted a bit. It was seriously conicidental, and also because Oxford isn't in term yet. Pretty cool though!
So here I am. In my a-little-bit chilly room, ready to sleep. It's the best room in the house. Big, even for four girls, with a nice bathroom and a great view. I have plenty of space for my stuff. And the bed's very comfortable. All important stuff.
I have my class schedule. It shifts each week. It's a little weird. I have a lot of reading to do before Tuesday, but we have Sunday and Monday off, so that's nice. Ummm...well, that's it for day 1 . Some tours and such tomorrow. I may call the police and see if they've found anything. I feel so stupid that I lost it. And I should have photocopied the Chinese Visa. I just...I really hope it's found. I definetly learned my lesson though.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Starting on a new adventure
Hello everyone, and welcome again to an exciting ride on Ashley's own little TARDIS.
Just a little update on all things travel:
1) My Mom and I will be cruising the Caribbean for Spring Break, and I may post some of the more exciting moments and pictures here.
2) On March 25th, I will be leaving for Oxford University in England. All of my time there will be recorded on this blog, with lots of pictures for everyone following me!
3) After that, on June 23rd, I'll be heading straight to Hangzhou, China were I will be studying intensive Mandarin Chinese for six weeks. I'll post here in English though, just for you!
So, stay tuned for lots of excitement!
Just a little update on all things travel:
1) My Mom and I will be cruising the Caribbean for Spring Break, and I may post some of the more exciting moments and pictures here.
2) On March 25th, I will be leaving for Oxford University in England. All of my time there will be recorded on this blog, with lots of pictures for everyone following me!
3) After that, on June 23rd, I'll be heading straight to Hangzhou, China were I will be studying intensive Mandarin Chinese for six weeks. I'll post here in English though, just for you!
So, stay tuned for lots of excitement!
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