Except it doesn't feel like Christmas at all. I have no decorations up, there is no snow, I haven't really bought any gifts. You could tell me it was February and I would believe you.
I am so grateful that my dad will be arriving here in just a few more days, it will be fantastic to see a familiar face. 7 weeks has been a long time since I have seen anyone from home. I am almost positive it might just be the longest amount of time I can survive without seeing a familiar face. I can't wait to see all of the groceries that he is bringing me too. I emailed him a list of things that I am having troubles living without. It is not like I want him to bring it all, after all I do want him to fit some clothes in the suitcase. (Although I did mention that there are clothes he could buy here to wear). My fingers are crossed for peanut butter, ranch dressing, rootbeer and at least a little taste of Canadian rye!
These last couple of weeks have been draining at work, not because of the students but because of the dynamics that can happen in a school of only 20 (give or take a few)staff. Most of which are female. Not really liking being back in high school, worrying about who is going to say what and to who. I really just want to go and teach, learn some new things and come away from this experience another year of teaching stronger with a wider array of behavioural management strategies. I know for a fact it will be nice to come home and be surrounded by people who genuinely love me, and who won't gossip about me behind my back. In an environment that at times can be so negative due to the behaviours, there isn't really room or need for other adults to add to the stress. Oh well, this two week break will allow me to distance myself from the gossip. Plus, I will have my dad here to believe in me.
Dad and I are off to Scotland for 4 days, and then we will spend Christmas Day in my flat. After dad leaves on the 27th, I am off to Belgium for the 28th. I will be in Belgium for New Year's. Wow, not many people I know can claim to have been there for New Year's!
I will obviously update the blog as I travel over the break!
I just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. Please make sure you give everyone lots of hugs, as I will be thinking of hugging all of you!
Miss You!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
A Short Update
Can you believe we are one day away from December? I can't, it truly is going by faster than I realize. It is strange how some days I think it feels like only yesterday I arrived, but it is 3 months.
I am pretty impressed with myself to be honest. There have been many times I thought I would throw in the towel. But, deep down I know I am not ready to come home yet. I know I haven't learned all what I am meant to learn while I am here. If I go back now, I will regret it. Nothing will have changed in me, I will take the same things for granted and I will be lost.
I am meant to stick it out, no matter how much crying or how homesick I get I need to do this for me.
I have spent some lone weekends this month for a couple of reasons. One has to do with a shopping adventure I went on by accident. I spent more money than I have ever in one store. Oops! I did get a dress for my work Christmas do, and then some sweet purple patent leather boots (which were essential, as boots are the style here) and then a pair of leggings, because you can't live here without a pair. The other reason for my anti social behaviour still goes back to my shopping, I knew if I went out I would spend more money and I need to pay Italy off and start stocking up for the holidays. (I know I would spend money shopping, because the weekend after my big shopping, I went out and shopped again. I didn't spend as much, I swear!).
Only 3 more weeks of school before the big break, (I haven't been counting since the beginning of November!) I am looking forward to my dad coming to visit, I am especially looking forward to all of the treats he is going to bring me. We are headed to Scotland for a few days. I am really looking forward to that, it is going to be pretty with all of the lights and the snow.
For New Year's I am going to Belgium, to meet up with a girl and her boyfriend. Both of whom I met briefly in October. They have offered me a place to stay and they are going to show me around. I am just glad that I won't be alone during the holidays.
Well now that I have sat here for the last 1/2 hour sleeping instead of typing, it is a sign that I am too tired to write anymore.
(It is Monday, what do you expect).
I am pretty impressed with myself to be honest. There have been many times I thought I would throw in the towel. But, deep down I know I am not ready to come home yet. I know I haven't learned all what I am meant to learn while I am here. If I go back now, I will regret it. Nothing will have changed in me, I will take the same things for granted and I will be lost.
I am meant to stick it out, no matter how much crying or how homesick I get I need to do this for me.
I have spent some lone weekends this month for a couple of reasons. One has to do with a shopping adventure I went on by accident. I spent more money than I have ever in one store. Oops! I did get a dress for my work Christmas do, and then some sweet purple patent leather boots (which were essential, as boots are the style here) and then a pair of leggings, because you can't live here without a pair. The other reason for my anti social behaviour still goes back to my shopping, I knew if I went out I would spend more money and I need to pay Italy off and start stocking up for the holidays. (I know I would spend money shopping, because the weekend after my big shopping, I went out and shopped again. I didn't spend as much, I swear!).
Only 3 more weeks of school before the big break, (I haven't been counting since the beginning of November!) I am looking forward to my dad coming to visit, I am especially looking forward to all of the treats he is going to bring me. We are headed to Scotland for a few days. I am really looking forward to that, it is going to be pretty with all of the lights and the snow.
For New Year's I am going to Belgium, to meet up with a girl and her boyfriend. Both of whom I met briefly in October. They have offered me a place to stay and they are going to show me around. I am just glad that I won't be alone during the holidays.
Well now that I have sat here for the last 1/2 hour sleeping instead of typing, it is a sign that I am too tired to write anymore.
(It is Monday, what do you expect).
Monday, November 8, 2010
Travels: The Final Leg!
Our shortest train trip yet! We arrived in Rome at 12. We were ripped off by a cab driver by 12:15!
Seriously! We walked out of the train station and there were sketchy people offering "cab rides". So being the smart girls that we are, we went straight to the main taxi line up. The line moved fairly quickly. There was a guy directing people to the taxis. We got up to him and showed him where we were going and he said it would cost 35 pounds. Ouch! But we had no idea how far the hotel was so we sucked it up. We got into the cab and as we were pulling away, I looked back and it registered that the guy directing people to different taxis was the guy who was driving ours. Then I looked up front and noticed that there was no meter. Still being the naive, nice Canadians (Okay, the Canadians that totally need to stick up for themselves). We got to our hotel and paid our driver. Once in the hotel we asked at front desk how much it should cost from the train station, 15 pounds! That is my first memory of Rome.
Both Sam and I were mad, but could do nothing about it so we went to our room and tried to change our perspective. We decided that since we had tours booked for the next two days and not to mention been so busy so far that we were going to find a main square, enjoy the sun at a cafe and journal. We found our way to Piazza Novona. It was a busy place, lined with cafes/restaurants that all had tables outside. We started walking through the square to find a location and the "hustlers" started coming out. They work for the restaurant and they try very hard to get people to come to their place. We happened to walk by one, and the guy was trying so hard to get us in there. Both Sam and I were like, we have been taken once already today we aren't getting talked into anything. So we continued along the way, but found no place that had a table out in the sun, except for the one place we snubbed. So we went back and hung our heads. I told the guy that if he wanted us to sit there he would have to find us a table in the sun. He did! Sam and I sat there and decided to have a mojito instead of coffee. We ordered a sandwich and tried to absorb as much sun as possible. We decided that we would we would have a small dinner later and then go out to a pub for the night. So what did we do next? We ordered another mojito! They were mighty fine, but no journal ever did get written in. We walked back to the hotel and decided to have a little siesta. Knowing fully well that no one goes out early in Italy.
At 7 the alarm went off and we were up. Both of us were not really feeling it, but we made ourselves beautiful anyways. We went to the hotel for a light supper and then headed to the Campo de Fiori. Another square supposedly where lots of people go to. We got to the one pub and ordered a drink, well low and behold each time you ordered a drink you got a free shot. And all of you know so far what that means..... No, actually it was one of the tamer nights. We just had a few drinks, talked with some of the locals and a few other travelers. We were back at the hotel no later than 12:30. (I did get to ride on the back of a scooter though).
The next day our tour didn't start till the afternoon, so Sam and I slept in. I know you are thinking you are on limited time, see as much as possible. I thought that too. But, with how tired I am at the end of the work day and at the end of the work week. I knew I needed to also rejuvenate before going back to work.
Our tour of the Vatican City, Vatican museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. WOW! WOW! WOW! I am not that knowledgeable when it comes to art, I don't think I ever learned how to really appreciate it, but this was amazing. I can't describe it in words. I posted some pictures on facebook, but even those will never do it justice. It was helpful having a guide who was so knowledgeable. He pointed out things that a person would overlook if they were going through on their own. It was a little weird standing in the place that the Pope comes out onto his balcony to address his followers. I am not sure how anyone could go into St. Peter's and not feel at peace.
After our amazing tour, we needed a little glass of wine to sip on so we could soak in our day. Sam and I decided that we would head to the hotel, chill out and then go for our last supper in Italy. We went to this family run restaurant. I hadn't realized that the focus of their dishes was seafood with homemade pasta. I was a little concerned when the waiter came around with a push cart full of fresh fish. He would take out the whole fish and flop it around to show the guests. It was a little creepy for me. There wasn't a whole lot that I would chose off of the menu, but I did decide on the lobster pasta. Good, but not fantastic. Seafood like that is not my cup of tea. But, the wine and the company were great so it made up for the food. I still left feeling full, it may have something to do with the Tiramsu I stuffed down at the end. We went back to pack up, knowing that our last day was going to be busy.
Both Sam and I slept like crap. I had two bloody noses, which so rarely ever happens to me. I think we were both worried about how we planned on managing the Colosseum tour, picking up our luggage at the hotel and then making it to our two o'clock train. But with my controlling nature, and my muscles we did just fine.
Unfortunately, we only got to stay for half of the Colosseum tour. But, we did get to go inside the Colosseum itself and that was the most important. It was strange to be in there. I think because I have seen replicas of it from Hollywood movies. So I kept thinking, that is were Russell Crow came out of. It is not that I didn't appreciate it, I definitely did and again it helped a lot having a guide to give us all of the history. Pictures on facebook again don't do the real thing justice.
So our final hours in Italy, we had to get to our hotel pick up our now even heavier suitcases and head to the train station. I of course did some more last minute shopping in the train station. Sam and I grabbed another sandwich, (bring on the carbs) and found our way to the train. I had to lift both mine and Sam's suitcases by this point. So funny! We took the train to Pisa, again I slept most of the way. We found the airport and were so happy to ditch out luggage for a short time. I would like you all to know that my bag only came in weighing 20.4kg and Sam's weighed 22.6. So I was doing a little better. Our flight was only an hour and half, which I again slept the whole way. We arrived in Gatwick, London just after midnight. We stayed at the Holiday in just outside of the airport.
Sadness would not even describe what I felt when I got up. Knowing that this was the last I was going to see a familiar face for the next 7 weeks. We enjoyed breakfast in our room, which was hard for me to eat through the tears. At noon, Sam and I said our good-byes. She was off to Heathrow to fly home and I was off to take a train, 2 tubes another train and a taxi to get home.
In summary, Italy was all that I hoped it would be and more. I was very lucky to share the experience with Sam. I will treasure the memories forever, all the ones I have shared in the blogs with you and the ones that are locked away for only Sam and I to remember.
Seriously! We walked out of the train station and there were sketchy people offering "cab rides". So being the smart girls that we are, we went straight to the main taxi line up. The line moved fairly quickly. There was a guy directing people to the taxis. We got up to him and showed him where we were going and he said it would cost 35 pounds. Ouch! But we had no idea how far the hotel was so we sucked it up. We got into the cab and as we were pulling away, I looked back and it registered that the guy directing people to different taxis was the guy who was driving ours. Then I looked up front and noticed that there was no meter. Still being the naive, nice Canadians (Okay, the Canadians that totally need to stick up for themselves). We got to our hotel and paid our driver. Once in the hotel we asked at front desk how much it should cost from the train station, 15 pounds! That is my first memory of Rome.
Both Sam and I were mad, but could do nothing about it so we went to our room and tried to change our perspective. We decided that since we had tours booked for the next two days and not to mention been so busy so far that we were going to find a main square, enjoy the sun at a cafe and journal. We found our way to Piazza Novona. It was a busy place, lined with cafes/restaurants that all had tables outside. We started walking through the square to find a location and the "hustlers" started coming out. They work for the restaurant and they try very hard to get people to come to their place. We happened to walk by one, and the guy was trying so hard to get us in there. Both Sam and I were like, we have been taken once already today we aren't getting talked into anything. So we continued along the way, but found no place that had a table out in the sun, except for the one place we snubbed. So we went back and hung our heads. I told the guy that if he wanted us to sit there he would have to find us a table in the sun. He did! Sam and I sat there and decided to have a mojito instead of coffee. We ordered a sandwich and tried to absorb as much sun as possible. We decided that we would we would have a small dinner later and then go out to a pub for the night. So what did we do next? We ordered another mojito! They were mighty fine, but no journal ever did get written in. We walked back to the hotel and decided to have a little siesta. Knowing fully well that no one goes out early in Italy.
At 7 the alarm went off and we were up. Both of us were not really feeling it, but we made ourselves beautiful anyways. We went to the hotel for a light supper and then headed to the Campo de Fiori. Another square supposedly where lots of people go to. We got to the one pub and ordered a drink, well low and behold each time you ordered a drink you got a free shot. And all of you know so far what that means..... No, actually it was one of the tamer nights. We just had a few drinks, talked with some of the locals and a few other travelers. We were back at the hotel no later than 12:30. (I did get to ride on the back of a scooter though).
The next day our tour didn't start till the afternoon, so Sam and I slept in. I know you are thinking you are on limited time, see as much as possible. I thought that too. But, with how tired I am at the end of the work day and at the end of the work week. I knew I needed to also rejuvenate before going back to work.
Our tour of the Vatican City, Vatican museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. WOW! WOW! WOW! I am not that knowledgeable when it comes to art, I don't think I ever learned how to really appreciate it, but this was amazing. I can't describe it in words. I posted some pictures on facebook, but even those will never do it justice. It was helpful having a guide who was so knowledgeable. He pointed out things that a person would overlook if they were going through on their own. It was a little weird standing in the place that the Pope comes out onto his balcony to address his followers. I am not sure how anyone could go into St. Peter's and not feel at peace.
After our amazing tour, we needed a little glass of wine to sip on so we could soak in our day. Sam and I decided that we would head to the hotel, chill out and then go for our last supper in Italy. We went to this family run restaurant. I hadn't realized that the focus of their dishes was seafood with homemade pasta. I was a little concerned when the waiter came around with a push cart full of fresh fish. He would take out the whole fish and flop it around to show the guests. It was a little creepy for me. There wasn't a whole lot that I would chose off of the menu, but I did decide on the lobster pasta. Good, but not fantastic. Seafood like that is not my cup of tea. But, the wine and the company were great so it made up for the food. I still left feeling full, it may have something to do with the Tiramsu I stuffed down at the end. We went back to pack up, knowing that our last day was going to be busy.
Both Sam and I slept like crap. I had two bloody noses, which so rarely ever happens to me. I think we were both worried about how we planned on managing the Colosseum tour, picking up our luggage at the hotel and then making it to our two o'clock train. But with my controlling nature, and my muscles we did just fine.
Unfortunately, we only got to stay for half of the Colosseum tour. But, we did get to go inside the Colosseum itself and that was the most important. It was strange to be in there. I think because I have seen replicas of it from Hollywood movies. So I kept thinking, that is were Russell Crow came out of. It is not that I didn't appreciate it, I definitely did and again it helped a lot having a guide to give us all of the history. Pictures on facebook again don't do the real thing justice.
So our final hours in Italy, we had to get to our hotel pick up our now even heavier suitcases and head to the train station. I of course did some more last minute shopping in the train station. Sam and I grabbed another sandwich, (bring on the carbs) and found our way to the train. I had to lift both mine and Sam's suitcases by this point. So funny! We took the train to Pisa, again I slept most of the way. We found the airport and were so happy to ditch out luggage for a short time. I would like you all to know that my bag only came in weighing 20.4kg and Sam's weighed 22.6. So I was doing a little better. Our flight was only an hour and half, which I again slept the whole way. We arrived in Gatwick, London just after midnight. We stayed at the Holiday in just outside of the airport.
Sadness would not even describe what I felt when I got up. Knowing that this was the last I was going to see a familiar face for the next 7 weeks. We enjoyed breakfast in our room, which was hard for me to eat through the tears. At noon, Sam and I said our good-byes. She was off to Heathrow to fly home and I was off to take a train, 2 tubes another train and a taxi to get home.
In summary, Italy was all that I hoped it would be and more. I was very lucky to share the experience with Sam. I will treasure the memories forever, all the ones I have shared in the blogs with you and the ones that are locked away for only Sam and I to remember.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Travels Part Three
Off to Florence!
The first snag, the hotel was over booked and they had to put us in another hotel (4* too). I think it was probably a 4* back in the 1900s. It was almost humorous. Oh well, it was only for one night. Imagine though a canopy bed with rust colour red curtains. (I will post a picture on facebook). The bellman brought up our suitcases, poor guy. No elevator in this hotel. So up many stairs with our very heavy suitcases. As we got into the room I went in my wallet to get some money to tip him, Sam said thank you to him. I guess he assumed that meant that we weren't going to tip him, and under his breath he said "Thanks for what". I can't believe it, needless to say I just put my wallet back into my purse.
We left right away to head out to the streets. Busy doesn't even describe how packed the streets were. We had lunch at a small cafe, the cafe looked on to the cathedral in the centre of the city. So pretty! When we went in the cathedral it was breathtaking, the art work, decorations, scultptures and even the flooring! Just beautiful! It is so hard to describe in words what we saw, there are no words to do any of it justice. We continued to walk to the river, and the famous bridge. The only bridge out of the three in town that wasn't bombed during WWII. There are little flats built into the bridge and tons of stores along the walkway of the bridge. There were many street markets, like you would see in Mexico. Lots of leather purses, belts, hats etc. I found many things that I could have bought, but I settled for a hat. I couldn't make my mind up about the purse. In hindsight I am kicking myself, because I ended up not buying one at all.
After all the walking, we both were needing a drink. We happened upon this little bar that made blended drinks and cocktails. All of their blended drinks were made using fresh fruit. So yummy! As we sat there we both agreed that the next day was going to be a long day with our Tuscany tour so we figured we would go for an early supper and go back to the hotel. We both didn't feel like going back and fixing up before supper. So we found a cute Italian restaurant. We had a nice meal and an excellent bottle of wine. Fat and happy we started walking back to our hotel, we happened upon an Irish pub. Thinking it was only 830, we could go for a drink. Both Sam and I sat at the bar and ordered a drink. The bartender began talking to us, asking where we were from etc. Next thing I know he is giving us a shooter, both Sam and I were like oh boy, this is how it started the night in my town and in Zurich. A few more people started coming in and we got to talking to more of the locals. Then the deal was when a Canadian artist came on we had to do a shooter, and we were both like whatever you don't have many Canadian songs. Well, Brian Adams was the first of many songs to play. I can't say I remember everything, we did talk to a nice newlywed couple from New Orleans. Sam went to pay our tab, which should have been at least 100 euros with all of the shooters we had done, and the bartender charged us 10 euros! That's it! Fun, fun, fun!
Waking up maybe 3 hours later, not so fun. But, I didn't feel that bad, plus it was the day I was looking forward to the most. Tuscany Tour! We boarded the bus at 830. We left and went to a small village called Siena. So cute, small streets, old people, beautiful flowers. The main square was open with cafes along the edge, lots of public sitting in the centre. Two taps where people would wash their grapes and sit in the square and have a picnic with their significant other. I had my first gelato, sitting in the sun and taking it all in.
We left Siena and took the scenic tour through the Tuscan hills. If you have seen the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, it seriously is like that! The colours were wild, being fall the most vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. The rows of vines and olive trees. We stopped at an organic winery. Here we had a traditional Tuscan meal, with a different wine for each course. Very tasty, and the food was good too. After eating we had a few minutes to enjoy wine on the balcony in the sun, looking out to the hills! OMG!
From the winery we went to another small village called San Gimignao. This is a place that is very medieval looking. The buildings are all attached, but there are many walkways that take you to the most amazing views. I think I could have been locked up in that fortress and been quite content if I had that scenery to look at everyday. We came out of one walkway into this opening where the sun was shining, a harpist was playing, people drinking wine looking out at the view. Very romantic!
After leaving San Gimignao, we had a little drive to Pisa. Which again was beautiful the entire way. We made it to Pisa in perfect timing. Sam and I climbed the stairs of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in enough time to see the sunset! What a view, indescribable. We stood up there for about 1/2 hour and tried to take in as much as possible. This left us no time to do any other sightseeing in Pisa, but I didn't care at that point as I am sure this was the highlight.
That was unfortunately the end of our wonderful tour. We headed back to Florence, exhausted but totally mesmerized by our unbelievable day. We went for supper in the hotel and talked about our day. There were two ladies that came in shortly after us, who had just arrived, who had been drinking I am sure for a long time, and who both had had some serious face work done. I could hardly look at them without wanting to laugh. They were from Boston and were looking for a good night out. Sam and I told them about our Irish pub and suggested they go there. I wonder if they ever made it and if they got as good of deal on drinks as we had?
Sleep was the next thing on my agenda and I made sure to accomplish that before midnight! Very much needed and appreciated!
The first snag, the hotel was over booked and they had to put us in another hotel (4* too). I think it was probably a 4* back in the 1900s. It was almost humorous. Oh well, it was only for one night. Imagine though a canopy bed with rust colour red curtains. (I will post a picture on facebook). The bellman brought up our suitcases, poor guy. No elevator in this hotel. So up many stairs with our very heavy suitcases. As we got into the room I went in my wallet to get some money to tip him, Sam said thank you to him. I guess he assumed that meant that we weren't going to tip him, and under his breath he said "Thanks for what". I can't believe it, needless to say I just put my wallet back into my purse.
We left right away to head out to the streets. Busy doesn't even describe how packed the streets were. We had lunch at a small cafe, the cafe looked on to the cathedral in the centre of the city. So pretty! When we went in the cathedral it was breathtaking, the art work, decorations, scultptures and even the flooring! Just beautiful! It is so hard to describe in words what we saw, there are no words to do any of it justice. We continued to walk to the river, and the famous bridge. The only bridge out of the three in town that wasn't bombed during WWII. There are little flats built into the bridge and tons of stores along the walkway of the bridge. There were many street markets, like you would see in Mexico. Lots of leather purses, belts, hats etc. I found many things that I could have bought, but I settled for a hat. I couldn't make my mind up about the purse. In hindsight I am kicking myself, because I ended up not buying one at all.
After all the walking, we both were needing a drink. We happened upon this little bar that made blended drinks and cocktails. All of their blended drinks were made using fresh fruit. So yummy! As we sat there we both agreed that the next day was going to be a long day with our Tuscany tour so we figured we would go for an early supper and go back to the hotel. We both didn't feel like going back and fixing up before supper. So we found a cute Italian restaurant. We had a nice meal and an excellent bottle of wine. Fat and happy we started walking back to our hotel, we happened upon an Irish pub. Thinking it was only 830, we could go for a drink. Both Sam and I sat at the bar and ordered a drink. The bartender began talking to us, asking where we were from etc. Next thing I know he is giving us a shooter, both Sam and I were like oh boy, this is how it started the night in my town and in Zurich. A few more people started coming in and we got to talking to more of the locals. Then the deal was when a Canadian artist came on we had to do a shooter, and we were both like whatever you don't have many Canadian songs. Well, Brian Adams was the first of many songs to play. I can't say I remember everything, we did talk to a nice newlywed couple from New Orleans. Sam went to pay our tab, which should have been at least 100 euros with all of the shooters we had done, and the bartender charged us 10 euros! That's it! Fun, fun, fun!
Waking up maybe 3 hours later, not so fun. But, I didn't feel that bad, plus it was the day I was looking forward to the most. Tuscany Tour! We boarded the bus at 830. We left and went to a small village called Siena. So cute, small streets, old people, beautiful flowers. The main square was open with cafes along the edge, lots of public sitting in the centre. Two taps where people would wash their grapes and sit in the square and have a picnic with their significant other. I had my first gelato, sitting in the sun and taking it all in.
We left Siena and took the scenic tour through the Tuscan hills. If you have seen the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, it seriously is like that! The colours were wild, being fall the most vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. The rows of vines and olive trees. We stopped at an organic winery. Here we had a traditional Tuscan meal, with a different wine for each course. Very tasty, and the food was good too. After eating we had a few minutes to enjoy wine on the balcony in the sun, looking out to the hills! OMG!
From the winery we went to another small village called San Gimignao. This is a place that is very medieval looking. The buildings are all attached, but there are many walkways that take you to the most amazing views. I think I could have been locked up in that fortress and been quite content if I had that scenery to look at everyday. We came out of one walkway into this opening where the sun was shining, a harpist was playing, people drinking wine looking out at the view. Very romantic!
After leaving San Gimignao, we had a little drive to Pisa. Which again was beautiful the entire way. We made it to Pisa in perfect timing. Sam and I climbed the stairs of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in enough time to see the sunset! What a view, indescribable. We stood up there for about 1/2 hour and tried to take in as much as possible. This left us no time to do any other sightseeing in Pisa, but I didn't care at that point as I am sure this was the highlight.
That was unfortunately the end of our wonderful tour. We headed back to Florence, exhausted but totally mesmerized by our unbelievable day. We went for supper in the hotel and talked about our day. There were two ladies that came in shortly after us, who had just arrived, who had been drinking I am sure for a long time, and who both had had some serious face work done. I could hardly look at them without wanting to laugh. They were from Boston and were looking for a good night out. Sam and I told them about our Irish pub and suggested they go there. I wonder if they ever made it and if they got as good of deal on drinks as we had?
Sleep was the next thing on my agenda and I made sure to accomplish that before midnight! Very much needed and appreciated!
Travels Part Deux
I have to do this in parts, as there is so much to tell you.
I left off leaving Zurich. We found our train with little problem, and boarded. I was asleep, head on the table in front of me before we left the station. I knew that if I felt that bad already and I was still intoxicated that later was not going to be pretty. This was our long day of train rides, which I think I was secretly happy as I really needed to sleep. We stopped and changed trains in Milan. Our stop was long enough for us to see some pigeons and to pick up a panini. I tried really hard to stay awake for the rest of the journey, but that didn't happen.
We arrived in Venice around 4 pm. So exciting to walk out of the train station and see old buildings and water just like a person has always envisioned it to be. I think I had to pinch myself, seriously! Are task was to find which water bus to take to where we would find out hotel. Our first try was wrong, but the second one was right on. Here pulls up this water bus, Sam and I are lugging our huge suitcases onto this crowded boat. No matter where we stood we were given dirty looks and told to move. It was quite comical, like really there was no where for us to go. We must have been the first tourists Venice had ever seen. (who brings a suitcase onto a water bus anyway?) A short jaunt on the boat and our stop. we walked through this small cobblestone alleyway and came out onto a busier shopping street. Our map was out and we started to navigate to our hotel. Like that was easy, the signs were all in Italian and it was like nothing matched what our map said. I must admit though, I do have a general sense of direction and I did find the hotel. Old and antique, very pretty. We ditched our suitcases and were off in the rain to look around. I don't know if you have seen pictures or movies that involve Venice, but it is exactly what you have seen. No cars, just lots of people bustling around, walkways too narrow for all of the umbrellas. Really posh stores and little cafes and wine bars everywhere. Sam and I decided on supper right beside the water, how romantic. Sitting under an awning, with a heat lamp, drinking red wine and eating some great pasta. (This isn't at all what I thought I would be doing in Italy, as if! It was like being in a fairytale). We called it an early night, by going back to the hotel and sitting in the hotel bar enjoying a few drinks and talking.
Day 2 in Venice was started by sirens, it woke both of us up. Not sure what the sirens meant or if we should be taking cover, we just stayed in bed for a little longer. After getting ready and enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we left to go and see what we could before our tour. Unfortunately, the water was so high that many things were flooded. Many of the streets had ramps to walk over so you were not walking in ankle deep water. It was so busy though that once you got on one of the ramps you were guaranteed to be in a line up just to get down the street. We found out at the beginning of our tour that the morning alarm lets the residents that the water level will peak above 1.5m and to be aware that there will be flooding. The flooding limited out tour too, we couldn't go into the Basicala, St. Mark's Square was completely flooded. It didn't help that it was so flippen cold, windy and rainy. Sam and I bought plastic ponchos to wear so we wouldn't have to carry our umbrellas. We looked like sausages, (meat stuffed into its wrap). After our walking tour we found a little pizzeria for lunch, we both had pizza and shared a bottle of wine. It was nice to get out of the wet for a short time. We didn't have long as we still had a tour on the Grand Canal. I directed us back to the meeting sight (Sorry, but Sam was awful at remembering how to get anywhere). The tour on the Grand Canal was great, besides the extremely rough water. Going along the Canal and seeing the beautiful old buildings, all of the colours and the history. Just great! We were both tired after our long day of sightseeing and walking that we went back to the hotel to warm up and take a break. Of course we weren't hungry after our large lunch, but we still wanted to go out for awhile, we were in Venice! Walking down the many streets we found a wine bar and sat and enjoyed a glass of wine, then off to a pub. A cute little jazz pub, which seemed to be okay. One little detail that made it even more interesting the ceiling was completely covered in womens bras. All sizes and colours. I guess this pub's thing was to get girls to leave their bras to show off. So guess what Sam and I did? We ....... didn't leave our bra. I am more controlled than that, give me some credit. We had a salad and some bruschetta for supper. Really not that great, but what should I expect ordering a Greek salad in Italy. We made our way back to the hotel and again sat in the bar and played some Monopoly Deal. I know you are all thinking wow, how boring! But we weren't feeling the night life in Venice. I think Venice is really a place for couples to go to, not two ladies looking for a party.
The next day had us packing up and making our way back to the train station to head to our next destination. Once again, I did some shopping in the train station. Last minute buys so I could have useless memorabilia of Venice.
I really didn't think it was going to take so long to post my trip, maybe I am a little too long winded. You are all thinking, just show us the pictures. Well you still have to wait because that is going to take a long time to do too.
I left off leaving Zurich. We found our train with little problem, and boarded. I was asleep, head on the table in front of me before we left the station. I knew that if I felt that bad already and I was still intoxicated that later was not going to be pretty. This was our long day of train rides, which I think I was secretly happy as I really needed to sleep. We stopped and changed trains in Milan. Our stop was long enough for us to see some pigeons and to pick up a panini. I tried really hard to stay awake for the rest of the journey, but that didn't happen.
We arrived in Venice around 4 pm. So exciting to walk out of the train station and see old buildings and water just like a person has always envisioned it to be. I think I had to pinch myself, seriously! Are task was to find which water bus to take to where we would find out hotel. Our first try was wrong, but the second one was right on. Here pulls up this water bus, Sam and I are lugging our huge suitcases onto this crowded boat. No matter where we stood we were given dirty looks and told to move. It was quite comical, like really there was no where for us to go. We must have been the first tourists Venice had ever seen. (who brings a suitcase onto a water bus anyway?) A short jaunt on the boat and our stop. we walked through this small cobblestone alleyway and came out onto a busier shopping street. Our map was out and we started to navigate to our hotel. Like that was easy, the signs were all in Italian and it was like nothing matched what our map said. I must admit though, I do have a general sense of direction and I did find the hotel. Old and antique, very pretty. We ditched our suitcases and were off in the rain to look around. I don't know if you have seen pictures or movies that involve Venice, but it is exactly what you have seen. No cars, just lots of people bustling around, walkways too narrow for all of the umbrellas. Really posh stores and little cafes and wine bars everywhere. Sam and I decided on supper right beside the water, how romantic. Sitting under an awning, with a heat lamp, drinking red wine and eating some great pasta. (This isn't at all what I thought I would be doing in Italy, as if! It was like being in a fairytale). We called it an early night, by going back to the hotel and sitting in the hotel bar enjoying a few drinks and talking.
Day 2 in Venice was started by sirens, it woke both of us up. Not sure what the sirens meant or if we should be taking cover, we just stayed in bed for a little longer. After getting ready and enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we left to go and see what we could before our tour. Unfortunately, the water was so high that many things were flooded. Many of the streets had ramps to walk over so you were not walking in ankle deep water. It was so busy though that once you got on one of the ramps you were guaranteed to be in a line up just to get down the street. We found out at the beginning of our tour that the morning alarm lets the residents that the water level will peak above 1.5m and to be aware that there will be flooding. The flooding limited out tour too, we couldn't go into the Basicala, St. Mark's Square was completely flooded. It didn't help that it was so flippen cold, windy and rainy. Sam and I bought plastic ponchos to wear so we wouldn't have to carry our umbrellas. We looked like sausages, (meat stuffed into its wrap). After our walking tour we found a little pizzeria for lunch, we both had pizza and shared a bottle of wine. It was nice to get out of the wet for a short time. We didn't have long as we still had a tour on the Grand Canal. I directed us back to the meeting sight (Sorry, but Sam was awful at remembering how to get anywhere). The tour on the Grand Canal was great, besides the extremely rough water. Going along the Canal and seeing the beautiful old buildings, all of the colours and the history. Just great! We were both tired after our long day of sightseeing and walking that we went back to the hotel to warm up and take a break. Of course we weren't hungry after our large lunch, but we still wanted to go out for awhile, we were in Venice! Walking down the many streets we found a wine bar and sat and enjoyed a glass of wine, then off to a pub. A cute little jazz pub, which seemed to be okay. One little detail that made it even more interesting the ceiling was completely covered in womens bras. All sizes and colours. I guess this pub's thing was to get girls to leave their bras to show off. So guess what Sam and I did? We ....... didn't leave our bra. I am more controlled than that, give me some credit. We had a salad and some bruschetta for supper. Really not that great, but what should I expect ordering a Greek salad in Italy. We made our way back to the hotel and again sat in the bar and played some Monopoly Deal. I know you are all thinking wow, how boring! But we weren't feeling the night life in Venice. I think Venice is really a place for couples to go to, not two ladies looking for a party.
The next day had us packing up and making our way back to the train station to head to our next destination. Once again, I did some shopping in the train station. Last minute buys so I could have useless memorabilia of Venice.
I really didn't think it was going to take so long to post my trip, maybe I am a little too long winded. You are all thinking, just show us the pictures. Well you still have to wait because that is going to take a long time to do too.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Travels, Part 1
I know, I know it has been too long. But, you have to understand that I was in Italy last week and I have punished myself to no more motivational red wine til Friday so I could detox. So here I am Friday night, (well really it is just 5pm); but it is dark outside and it is Friday, drinking my first glass of red wine since leaving Italy, and having the motivation to blog.
Oh, where to begin?
My friend *Samantha (Sam) came to see me and had arrived on Thursday Oct. 20. She too has recently gone through a separation and was looking for a chance to get away from it all. (I know you are all thinking two crazy girls out in Italy), but I will tell you now just in case you want to stop reading there is no dirty details to tell, just a lot of late nights!
The day of Sam's arrival had us going for drinks and a bite to eat at one of the pub's I have began to frequent. We sat in the corner by the fire and talked and had a few beers. For some reason though we decided to move up closer to the bar, and well that was the end to our tame night. I am pretty sure I went to bed at 4am, waking up at 615 to go to work.
I survived the day at work, I only had the students til noon, so it wasn't too bad. That night Sam and I took the train to London. Picture this, two girls with suitcases way to full, lugging these heavy things up 3 flights of stairs in heels. Oh what a laugh and sight we must have been, (and it was only the beginning). We found our hotel for the night, a cute room that we could reach wall to wall if we were standing beside one another with our arms out. We dropped our stuff and went to get a bite to eat, guess what we had? Wait for it.... Italian! I know we were going to Italy but pasta and pizza are really my favourite. An early night for us, as I still was only running on about 2 hours of sleep.
In the morning we boarded the train, the first leg and only the first leg of the journey was in first class. So nice, breakfast was brought to us, coffee and tea. It was quite pleasant. It was a shame that all the other train rides were in what is called 2nd class. The rest of the train experiences were just not as lush as this one. We switched trains in Paris, I saw the outside of the train station for literally two seconds and that is it. Don't worry it is on my list of places to go.
Our first night was to be in Zurich, Switzerland. Not a place that was on my list of places to go, but it was on our Itinerary, and to be honest I hope to go back now. About an hour and half before arriving in Zurich we decided to have a drink, okay a couple. This made us both feel pretty good. The hotel we were staying in just happened to be across the street from the train station. When entering the hotel we were greeted with hot towels and a glass of champagne. (Seriously!) The girl at the front desk was gracious enough to make reservations at a place for a traditional Swiss Fondue, and of course a place for us to go to after. So we did exactly that. The fondue was fabulous. A bottle of wine, melted cheese with bread and potatoes, (really, what more can a girl ask for?) We hit a bar afterwards where we spent 15 Swiss Franks on a drink, way too expensive. We managed to spend all the money that we had exchanged though. It seemed easier just to spend it then to have to exchange it the next day. We met a few more travellers, and the hotel girl was there with some of her friends. So all in all it turned into a pretty good night/morning. Too be honest, I am glad I didn't have to drive the next day. After shopping in the train station, spending money on things that I "soooo needed" we boarded the next train going to Venice, Italy.
I am already tired and I haven't even got to Italy. You are probably tired of reading too. I am going to end it here and add more later. I don't want to lose you to boredom.
*please note, some names may have been or will be changed in the blog to protect those who are innocent!
Oh, where to begin?
My friend *Samantha (Sam) came to see me and had arrived on Thursday Oct. 20. She too has recently gone through a separation and was looking for a chance to get away from it all. (I know you are all thinking two crazy girls out in Italy), but I will tell you now just in case you want to stop reading there is no dirty details to tell, just a lot of late nights!
The day of Sam's arrival had us going for drinks and a bite to eat at one of the pub's I have began to frequent. We sat in the corner by the fire and talked and had a few beers. For some reason though we decided to move up closer to the bar, and well that was the end to our tame night. I am pretty sure I went to bed at 4am, waking up at 615 to go to work.
I survived the day at work, I only had the students til noon, so it wasn't too bad. That night Sam and I took the train to London. Picture this, two girls with suitcases way to full, lugging these heavy things up 3 flights of stairs in heels. Oh what a laugh and sight we must have been, (and it was only the beginning). We found our hotel for the night, a cute room that we could reach wall to wall if we were standing beside one another with our arms out. We dropped our stuff and went to get a bite to eat, guess what we had? Wait for it.... Italian! I know we were going to Italy but pasta and pizza are really my favourite. An early night for us, as I still was only running on about 2 hours of sleep.
In the morning we boarded the train, the first leg and only the first leg of the journey was in first class. So nice, breakfast was brought to us, coffee and tea. It was quite pleasant. It was a shame that all the other train rides were in what is called 2nd class. The rest of the train experiences were just not as lush as this one. We switched trains in Paris, I saw the outside of the train station for literally two seconds and that is it. Don't worry it is on my list of places to go.
Our first night was to be in Zurich, Switzerland. Not a place that was on my list of places to go, but it was on our Itinerary, and to be honest I hope to go back now. About an hour and half before arriving in Zurich we decided to have a drink, okay a couple. This made us both feel pretty good. The hotel we were staying in just happened to be across the street from the train station. When entering the hotel we were greeted with hot towels and a glass of champagne. (Seriously!) The girl at the front desk was gracious enough to make reservations at a place for a traditional Swiss Fondue, and of course a place for us to go to after. So we did exactly that. The fondue was fabulous. A bottle of wine, melted cheese with bread and potatoes, (really, what more can a girl ask for?) We hit a bar afterwards where we spent 15 Swiss Franks on a drink, way too expensive. We managed to spend all the money that we had exchanged though. It seemed easier just to spend it then to have to exchange it the next day. We met a few more travellers, and the hotel girl was there with some of her friends. So all in all it turned into a pretty good night/morning. Too be honest, I am glad I didn't have to drive the next day. After shopping in the train station, spending money on things that I "soooo needed" we boarded the next train going to Venice, Italy.
I am already tired and I haven't even got to Italy. You are probably tired of reading too. I am going to end it here and add more later. I don't want to lose you to boredom.
*please note, some names may have been or will be changed in the blog to protect those who are innocent!
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Thanks MOM!
I am missing my turkey and pumpkin pie! No Thanksgiving for me, which is okay, I have to make up from the over-eating I did when mom was here.
I just said good-bye to my mom, who had been staying with me since Sunday (Oct.3). It was a real treat to have her and Rod here.
Another thing to add to my things learned;
I now have soup in my freezer, cookies baked and more groceries than I have had the entire time I have been here. My bathroom is a little more purple, thanks to the new bath mats. I have a picture in my kitchen and a blossoming plant on my kitchen table. I am not sure mom was thinking about the fact that I can't bring all of this home with me. She and I are too similar, we just buy things that will make us happy not really thinking of the long term.
While they were here we went out to eat a few times, drank beer in a few pubs and made some really good homemade meals. Both Rod and my mom love my little town, which makes me feel more settled. They spent a couple of days while I was working touring around and shopping. They really like my flat, except Rod isn't too keen on not having a tv.
I loved being able to come home after work and have people here to talk to, to vent to and to describe my day to. Unfortunately, I learned quickly that my mom (being a mom), offered to stay behind and help me move back home. She is having difficulties envisioning her daughter at the type of school I am at and she wants to protect me. She offered on a really bad day, I almost considered it!
We went to London on Friday. It was my first time in the big city. We saw the play Jersey Boys and it was fabulous. The theatre itself was old and beautiful. I felt like a rich person being able to experience something like this! After the show we walked onto the streets. Holy **** were there a lot of people. This was not my favourite part. I am not too big on crowds like that. Especially in a place I know nothing about. We were able to go for some munchies at TGIF's (an American restaurant). So I made sure I had chicken wings, potato skins and nachos. So good! On Saturday we toured around a little. Unfortunately, we didn't have tons of time as they were leaving to Manchester so they could catch their flight home. I will be going back at some point (definitely not alone) to see more of the tourist places (Mom and Rod had already done them, so there wasn't a point on repeating).
We parted ways at the tube station, mom and Rod heading to their train in one direction and me heading in another direction to come home. Of course there were tears, and that feeling of being alone all over again. But it wasn't until I was on the train home that I truly felt alone. There was work being done on the train that goes back to my town, so I was to get off at this other station and take a bus. I thought no problem. Until I realized there were two stops with the same name, the second having "parkway" added to it. So I assumed I would get off there. Well when I did, it was dark and deserted with no signs of any cabs, or buses. I stood on the platform and laughed. This was great! I had to wait 40 minutes until the next train in the middle of nowhere in the dark. Instead of taking 1 hour to get home from London it took 3. And the learning continues!
I am very lucky that I don't have to wait a long time before my next visitor. A couple of weeks and my friend from Calgary will be here. We are off to Italy for 7 days as it is half term break here. We will be taking a train from London (hopefully I can find the station) and spending one night in Zurich. The next day we depart by train to Venice for two nights. Then off to Florence for 2 nights and ending in Rome for 2 nights. We will fly back to London from Rome. I am extremely excited as travelling was one of the main reasons for this journey.
Happy Thanksgiving!
I just said good-bye to my mom, who had been staying with me since Sunday (Oct.3). It was a real treat to have her and Rod here.
Another thing to add to my things learned;
- It is so easy to take for granted the things our parents do for us. It isn't until a person has to go without, they truly learn to appreciate it more. Thank God, I am fortunate to still have my mom here to spoil me!
I now have soup in my freezer, cookies baked and more groceries than I have had the entire time I have been here. My bathroom is a little more purple, thanks to the new bath mats. I have a picture in my kitchen and a blossoming plant on my kitchen table. I am not sure mom was thinking about the fact that I can't bring all of this home with me. She and I are too similar, we just buy things that will make us happy not really thinking of the long term.
While they were here we went out to eat a few times, drank beer in a few pubs and made some really good homemade meals. Both Rod and my mom love my little town, which makes me feel more settled. They spent a couple of days while I was working touring around and shopping. They really like my flat, except Rod isn't too keen on not having a tv.
I loved being able to come home after work and have people here to talk to, to vent to and to describe my day to. Unfortunately, I learned quickly that my mom (being a mom), offered to stay behind and help me move back home. She is having difficulties envisioning her daughter at the type of school I am at and she wants to protect me. She offered on a really bad day, I almost considered it!
We went to London on Friday. It was my first time in the big city. We saw the play Jersey Boys and it was fabulous. The theatre itself was old and beautiful. I felt like a rich person being able to experience something like this! After the show we walked onto the streets. Holy **** were there a lot of people. This was not my favourite part. I am not too big on crowds like that. Especially in a place I know nothing about. We were able to go for some munchies at TGIF's (an American restaurant). So I made sure I had chicken wings, potato skins and nachos. So good! On Saturday we toured around a little. Unfortunately, we didn't have tons of time as they were leaving to Manchester so they could catch their flight home. I will be going back at some point (definitely not alone) to see more of the tourist places (Mom and Rod had already done them, so there wasn't a point on repeating).
We parted ways at the tube station, mom and Rod heading to their train in one direction and me heading in another direction to come home. Of course there were tears, and that feeling of being alone all over again. But it wasn't until I was on the train home that I truly felt alone. There was work being done on the train that goes back to my town, so I was to get off at this other station and take a bus. I thought no problem. Until I realized there were two stops with the same name, the second having "parkway" added to it. So I assumed I would get off there. Well when I did, it was dark and deserted with no signs of any cabs, or buses. I stood on the platform and laughed. This was great! I had to wait 40 minutes until the next train in the middle of nowhere in the dark. Instead of taking 1 hour to get home from London it took 3. And the learning continues!
I am very lucky that I don't have to wait a long time before my next visitor. A couple of weeks and my friend from Calgary will be here. We are off to Italy for 7 days as it is half term break here. We will be taking a train from London (hopefully I can find the station) and spending one night in Zurich. The next day we depart by train to Venice for two nights. Then off to Florence for 2 nights and ending in Rome for 2 nights. We will fly back to London from Rome. I am extremely excited as travelling was one of the main reasons for this journey.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
It is all a Process of Learning!
I have officially been in the UK for a month. There are more than a few things that I am sure to learn as I continue on this path. But three things I have learned so far are:
1) appreciate all the small things that are easily taken for granted. For example having a bathtub, being able to turn on your heat and not have to worry about how much electricity it is going to use. Having a television that doesn't cost you 150 pounds just to license it. Not having to worry about whether you have grabbed all of your knickers (underwear) from the school's washing machine before leaving for the day.
2)enjoying your time, not having the constant feel that you have to be doing something. There is nothing better than laying in bed on a weekend morning, and not feeling guilty for doing so. As selfish as it is, it really is rejuvenating to run on a schedule that suits you. I know most of you back home can't do this because of family obligations, but you owe it to yourself to take one morning and just lay there not worrying about anything except maybe how long you can stay in bed before you will burst from needing to wee (pee) so bad.
3)there are massive spiders that move really fast. They require multiple stomps to kill and sometimes an additional stomp when you just want to make sure they are dead before laying back in bed. Screaming helps too!
To keep you up to speed on a few things that I have been dealing with. I have given up on the whole television idea, it has been nothing but a hastle and expense. So I will go without a TV for the year. That is okay because I am able to watch somethings on the Internet. (For those that want a great British comedy look up The Inbetweeners, and watch an episode). My land line is working, but apparently not all the time. If you do phone and it rings for ever, or you get nothing don't give up, just try again. I am still sleeping on the mattress on the floor as my bed frame is still yet to be delivered. I am almost too afraid to ask about it as this point. My washing machine has been brought into the flat and the plumber has been here, but now there is an issue with a fuse, so yes my knickers are still coming to school with me.
Thanks mom for bringing with you some Kraft Dinner, Lipton Chicken Noodle soup, Kraft peanut butter and Ranch dressing. Somethings are irreplaceable in one's diet.
Best purchases thus far: My slippers, two throw blankets, and my king size duvet for my double bed!
To be more serious now, what I miss the most from home (besides the food), (and the bath tub), (and the luxury of having my own vehicle). I miss all of you, my friends and family! Loving you all from across the pond!
1) appreciate all the small things that are easily taken for granted. For example having a bathtub, being able to turn on your heat and not have to worry about how much electricity it is going to use. Having a television that doesn't cost you 150 pounds just to license it. Not having to worry about whether you have grabbed all of your knickers (underwear) from the school's washing machine before leaving for the day.
2)enjoying your time, not having the constant feel that you have to be doing something. There is nothing better than laying in bed on a weekend morning, and not feeling guilty for doing so. As selfish as it is, it really is rejuvenating to run on a schedule that suits you. I know most of you back home can't do this because of family obligations, but you owe it to yourself to take one morning and just lay there not worrying about anything except maybe how long you can stay in bed before you will burst from needing to wee (pee) so bad.
3)there are massive spiders that move really fast. They require multiple stomps to kill and sometimes an additional stomp when you just want to make sure they are dead before laying back in bed. Screaming helps too!
To keep you up to speed on a few things that I have been dealing with. I have given up on the whole television idea, it has been nothing but a hastle and expense. So I will go without a TV for the year. That is okay because I am able to watch somethings on the Internet. (For those that want a great British comedy look up The Inbetweeners, and watch an episode). My land line is working, but apparently not all the time. If you do phone and it rings for ever, or you get nothing don't give up, just try again. I am still sleeping on the mattress on the floor as my bed frame is still yet to be delivered. I am almost too afraid to ask about it as this point. My washing machine has been brought into the flat and the plumber has been here, but now there is an issue with a fuse, so yes my knickers are still coming to school with me.
Thanks mom for bringing with you some Kraft Dinner, Lipton Chicken Noodle soup, Kraft peanut butter and Ranch dressing. Somethings are irreplaceable in one's diet.
Best purchases thus far: My slippers, two throw blankets, and my king size duvet for my double bed!
To be more serious now, what I miss the most from home (besides the food), (and the bath tub), (and the luxury of having my own vehicle). I miss all of you, my friends and family! Loving you all from across the pond!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Another Year Older!
Well I am no longer 30! I am now on my way to my 40s, how sickening. It was more than hard being away from family and friends on my day. I was lucky to get a few phone calls and some cards in the mail. My students gave me a card and we had yummy chocolate cake at the end of the day. Yum! Thanks to a few ladies at work I wasn't alone for the evening. I went for a few pints and then some Thai. I have never had Thai before and I will be going back for sure. Super yummy. I enjoyed the company and the red wine.
I finally bit the bullet and joined the local gym last weekend. But, I didn't drag my sorry butt there until today where I had a fitness assessment. I guess it is time to get a bit more serious, as my bodyfat index is pretty bad. Plus, it really will be a great stress reliever. I can't go to the pub after work everyday to relieve stress, as I have a feeling each work day will be very stressful.
Speaking of school, wow! I am in a whole new environment! It is an extreme eye opener and it is quite draining to be on alarm all day. Today though was the first day that I got kicked and called a name. I became Miss Wanker today. I know I shouldn't think it, but I did find it humorous to be called this. I knew I would find the little accents to be cute. How can you not smile when a kid says Bloody Hell while doing an art project, or when you are told to go back to my country because I don't belong here. According to the students I don't speak English, well I do, but they can't figure out what type of English I speak. Truly it is cute. Currently I have 4 students and will have another boy starting next week. I will have a sixth boy starting at the beginning of November. I find it difficult when a new student starts when the year has begun. It keeps changing the dynamics in the room. With some of these children it is hard to deal with change, and it is hard to have to share their time with someone else. The challenge of the job is something that I am enjoying as stressful as it is. I have now played football with some of the boys, and I must admit I am not too bad. It must have been those years on a soccer team. I was pulling out all sorts of swift moves. Another fun activity that we do is play hide and seek on Fridays. I love chasing the kids through the trees. They think they are so tricky, but the teachers seem to most often come out on top!
I am off to Manchester this weekend. I am looking forward to getting back on the train and seeing more of England. My mom and Rod will be flying into Manchester on Saturday. I am so excited! I am in need of seeing a familiar face more than I ever thought I would be. Unfortunately, mom's trip was planned before I knew I was coming here. So they are off to Scotland and then to watch the Ryder Cup. They are trying to squeeze me into their already packed schedule. I will take the few hours that I get to see her on Saturday, even if I have to ride a train for almost 4 hours. I gave her a list of a few comfort things for her to bring for me, and of course they are food related.
I am not too happy with the way the recruitment agency I went through. It has handled some of the important things really poorly. I just now have finalized my bank account and have not been paid yet, which is very annoying. I swear the agency doesn't talk amongst themselves and I have had to send documents numerous times. I thought I was going to have a land line set up, but the used phone I was given didn't work so I bought a new phone and guess what it still doesn't work. I guess I will get back on the phone and see when the telephone company can fix it. I bought this sate lite thing called free view. I should be getting many channels for no cost. This is the thing that many people told me to buy. So I bought one for 60 pounds and I get 2 flipping channels. I can't believe it. It seems that many things I have invested in haven't all worked out. I am still sleeping on my mattress on the floor. I am still waiting for my washing machine to be installed. I am tired of dragging my laundry on public transit and then washing my two work shirts at school. I know things aren't all going to happen at once, but for those that know me not having control over everything is really hard.
I have found some great sweets here and have started to live off chocolate. I think if nothing else I will return with a greater sweet tooth and some great British phrases.
I finally bit the bullet and joined the local gym last weekend. But, I didn't drag my sorry butt there until today where I had a fitness assessment. I guess it is time to get a bit more serious, as my bodyfat index is pretty bad. Plus, it really will be a great stress reliever. I can't go to the pub after work everyday to relieve stress, as I have a feeling each work day will be very stressful.
Speaking of school, wow! I am in a whole new environment! It is an extreme eye opener and it is quite draining to be on alarm all day. Today though was the first day that I got kicked and called a name. I became Miss Wanker today. I know I shouldn't think it, but I did find it humorous to be called this. I knew I would find the little accents to be cute. How can you not smile when a kid says Bloody Hell while doing an art project, or when you are told to go back to my country because I don't belong here. According to the students I don't speak English, well I do, but they can't figure out what type of English I speak. Truly it is cute. Currently I have 4 students and will have another boy starting next week. I will have a sixth boy starting at the beginning of November. I find it difficult when a new student starts when the year has begun. It keeps changing the dynamics in the room. With some of these children it is hard to deal with change, and it is hard to have to share their time with someone else. The challenge of the job is something that I am enjoying as stressful as it is. I have now played football with some of the boys, and I must admit I am not too bad. It must have been those years on a soccer team. I was pulling out all sorts of swift moves. Another fun activity that we do is play hide and seek on Fridays. I love chasing the kids through the trees. They think they are so tricky, but the teachers seem to most often come out on top!
I am off to Manchester this weekend. I am looking forward to getting back on the train and seeing more of England. My mom and Rod will be flying into Manchester on Saturday. I am so excited! I am in need of seeing a familiar face more than I ever thought I would be. Unfortunately, mom's trip was planned before I knew I was coming here. So they are off to Scotland and then to watch the Ryder Cup. They are trying to squeeze me into their already packed schedule. I will take the few hours that I get to see her on Saturday, even if I have to ride a train for almost 4 hours. I gave her a list of a few comfort things for her to bring for me, and of course they are food related.
I am not too happy with the way the recruitment agency I went through. It has handled some of the important things really poorly. I just now have finalized my bank account and have not been paid yet, which is very annoying. I swear the agency doesn't talk amongst themselves and I have had to send documents numerous times. I thought I was going to have a land line set up, but the used phone I was given didn't work so I bought a new phone and guess what it still doesn't work. I guess I will get back on the phone and see when the telephone company can fix it. I bought this sate lite thing called free view. I should be getting many channels for no cost. This is the thing that many people told me to buy. So I bought one for 60 pounds and I get 2 flipping channels. I can't believe it. It seems that many things I have invested in haven't all worked out. I am still sleeping on my mattress on the floor. I am still waiting for my washing machine to be installed. I am tired of dragging my laundry on public transit and then washing my two work shirts at school. I know things aren't all going to happen at once, but for those that know me not having control over everything is really hard.
I have found some great sweets here and have started to live off chocolate. I think if nothing else I will return with a greater sweet tooth and some great British phrases.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Class is in Session!
The honeymoon stage is lovely! We are 3 days into the new term with only 2 out of the 5 students. And we have had no incidents to report. It has been a great beginning to a potentially stressful job. I have been privileged enough to be paired with a teacher (only until the end of the month) who really "gets it." What I mean is really gets dealing with the special population. Actually the entire school is like this and it is phenomenal. The potential for danger and intense situations is extremely high every moment of the day. But the staff is a solid team at this school and they work together so that no person would ever have to deal with a situation on their own. I have seen some of the behaviours that a few of the other teachers are dealing with and I am feeling fortunate that I get to be eased into the whole situation. I am sure the dynamics will change later this week as we will be getting a new student to the school who has a reputation of violence. He will be in my class. I am a bit nervous, but confident as I know I have the support that I need.
It is strange and I haven't figured it out, why I haven't seen this severity of behaviour in the children back home. Even in the special needs classrooms I have taught in. I have seen some intense behaviours, but nothing to this extreme. I am glad that the children here are provided an environment where they are safe and cared for. They are treated as individuals and are allowed to be part of the team.
I have had a few laughs with the boys in my group thus far, and I find the humour makes for a lighter mood. I think I am still mesmerized by the accents. They are so cute! As specific as I would like to be so you can all get a picture is not something I can provide. I will keep you posted on the many events that we will be doing as they unfold.
The school has a pet rabbit. An animal that I usually am not too fond of, but I found myself snuggling with it today. It is black and white. It made me think of my Corona! I miss him tremendously.
I can't wait till my mom arrives on the 18th in Manchester. Although they are coming for tourist reasons, and to watch some golf. I hope to meet up with them on some of the weekends so I can get my fill of hugs until the next person visits me. (Anyone want to visit? I have room for you to sleep?)
P.S. Work life/routine is no different here then it is back home. Not sure what I was expecting. I know I can't travel all of the time, and that I need to make money in order to travel. But coming home after work and making supper and sitting around feels the same here as it did back home. Lonely! I am on a mission to find some sort of club to belong to, otherwise I may give into one of my many bad habits.
It is strange and I haven't figured it out, why I haven't seen this severity of behaviour in the children back home. Even in the special needs classrooms I have taught in. I have seen some intense behaviours, but nothing to this extreme. I am glad that the children here are provided an environment where they are safe and cared for. They are treated as individuals and are allowed to be part of the team.
I have had a few laughs with the boys in my group thus far, and I find the humour makes for a lighter mood. I think I am still mesmerized by the accents. They are so cute! As specific as I would like to be so you can all get a picture is not something I can provide. I will keep you posted on the many events that we will be doing as they unfold.
The school has a pet rabbit. An animal that I usually am not too fond of, but I found myself snuggling with it today. It is black and white. It made me think of my Corona! I miss him tremendously.
I can't wait till my mom arrives on the 18th in Manchester. Although they are coming for tourist reasons, and to watch some golf. I hope to meet up with them on some of the weekends so I can get my fill of hugs until the next person visits me. (Anyone want to visit? I have room for you to sleep?)
P.S. Work life/routine is no different here then it is back home. Not sure what I was expecting. I know I can't travel all of the time, and that I need to make money in order to travel. But coming home after work and making supper and sitting around feels the same here as it did back home. Lonely! I am on a mission to find some sort of club to belong to, otherwise I may give into one of my many bad habits.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
HOMESICK!!!!!!
Okay so I can't be having the time of my life the whole time I am here. And if this blog is really about me and my journey then I have to include the not so awesome parts.
I woke up this morning feeling not quite right. I didn't feel like getting out of bed, but I did. I decided that I was going to take the bus to a town called Aylesbury, about 30 minutes from Thame. I figured I would look around and see what kind of shopping I could find, plus I have a few more things that I want to get. I was hoping to come upon an ASDA (which is part of the Walmart group).
I showered, made my coffee. Got ready and had some breakfast. I left for the bus still feeling... well sad for myself. I met a nice lady on the bus who told me about Thame and she even showed me how to get to the main street in Aylesbury. I walked through the mall and I happened to find a shop that makes sweets that my aunt has been telling me about. So I got excited! I went in and bought some of the toffee. I thought alright, it is looking up! I walked out onto the streets and just started walking because I had no idea where I was going. The whole time I was not feeling it, I could feel that my face did not have the usual perma-grin that it has had for the most part since I got here. I even thought buying some clothes would help. But no, even though I did find some sweet deals. Like a vest for 8 pounds which isn't even $16. Two pairs of jeans for 25 pounds. I walked around some more and realized that there was no point me being there if I wasn't enjoying it.
I got back on the bus and headed home. When I walked into my place I went directly up the stairs dumped my stuff at the top. And crawled into bed. Maybe a nap would help. I slept for about 45 minutes and here I am still in bed, surrounded by junk food and not really feeling it still. You know it is true about human contact being truly important. It can really make a difference in how someone feels. I am craving a good meaningful hug right now!
I even have plans for tonight, I am going to a local pub with some girls from work. I should be looking forward to that. I am sure that is what I need! I am hoping in the next 3 hours I can pull my head out of my a** and go out for a good time.
Sorry for the realness of my post today, but I needed someone to talk to and who else better than those that are joining me virtually on my journey!
I woke up this morning feeling not quite right. I didn't feel like getting out of bed, but I did. I decided that I was going to take the bus to a town called Aylesbury, about 30 minutes from Thame. I figured I would look around and see what kind of shopping I could find, plus I have a few more things that I want to get. I was hoping to come upon an ASDA (which is part of the Walmart group).
I showered, made my coffee. Got ready and had some breakfast. I left for the bus still feeling... well sad for myself. I met a nice lady on the bus who told me about Thame and she even showed me how to get to the main street in Aylesbury. I walked through the mall and I happened to find a shop that makes sweets that my aunt has been telling me about. So I got excited! I went in and bought some of the toffee. I thought alright, it is looking up! I walked out onto the streets and just started walking because I had no idea where I was going. The whole time I was not feeling it, I could feel that my face did not have the usual perma-grin that it has had for the most part since I got here. I even thought buying some clothes would help. But no, even though I did find some sweet deals. Like a vest for 8 pounds which isn't even $16. Two pairs of jeans for 25 pounds. I walked around some more and realized that there was no point me being there if I wasn't enjoying it.
I got back on the bus and headed home. When I walked into my place I went directly up the stairs dumped my stuff at the top. And crawled into bed. Maybe a nap would help. I slept for about 45 minutes and here I am still in bed, surrounded by junk food and not really feeling it still. You know it is true about human contact being truly important. It can really make a difference in how someone feels. I am craving a good meaningful hug right now!
I even have plans for tonight, I am going to a local pub with some girls from work. I should be looking forward to that. I am sure that is what I need! I am hoping in the next 3 hours I can pull my head out of my a** and go out for a good time.
Sorry for the realness of my post today, but I needed someone to talk to and who else better than those that are joining me virtually on my journey!
Monday, August 23, 2010
I am sorry but that is not a pancake!
I just made myself supper, banana pancakes. I tried very hard to find pancake mix. I found a Betty Crocker mix that comes in a jug. Just add water and shake. I am sorry, I think I wanted pancakes not crepes. So I guess I am going to have to make them from scratch, if I have any hope in spreading peanut butter over it. I should mention too, that when I was looking for syrup the kid was showing me corn syrup. The other worker, said like Maple syrup and I was like yup. So they have one brand and the label reads real Canadian Maple Syrup. Not made in Canada! I am learning so many funny things here. Not that they are weird just that they do things differently. I went to a sweet shop yesterday and they sold Lucky Charms, apparently you can't buy this cereal in the grocery store because of the sugar content. It is considered a sweet (candy). Yet, you can buy cocoa puffs and Frosted Fakes at the local market. The garbage system here is something to get use too. They have a bin for food waste only, which I pleasantly smelled this morning. A bin for mixed recyclables, including pop cans etc, and a bin for non recyclables. It is hard to get my head around it. I finally caved and asked for more specifics so I didn't make a mistake.
Every Tuesday they have an outdoor market, all year round. So I walked through it yesterday. I loved it. Fruits and veggies, bakery goods. I bought a pair of warm slippers. And if I really wanted to I could have bought some parts for my vacuum. I spent more time walking through the town itself. I found both of the fitness facilities. One is too far to walk to everyday, and I would use that as an excuse so that one is out. The little one by my place is cute, but little. They offer spin classes (which makes me happy) but they only have 6 bikes!
I have emptied my suitcases! I think for the first time in 8 months I am finally out of a suitcase. Not everything is hung or put away, but I don't care. I am suppose to be getting my bed tomorrow and my head teacher is going to loan me her futon. I promise to take pictures and post them. I just want to wait till I have more things and I don't look like I am living like a savage.
I started work today! I took pictures of the school which I will post on facebook when I am done here. What an amazing staff. So friendly and welcoming! It was a little stressful as I started the first day of two learning the Team Teach stuff. I think I was a little disillusioned about the type of students I am going to be having in my class. Lets just say I will be ready to handle escalating physical behaviour. I knew as soon as they said the windows only open one way so the kids can't jump out, I was in a true behavioural setting. I meet the students on Friday. I am fortunate enough to be job sharing for the first while with a teacher that has been at the school and knows the ins and outs. So I will have a nice gradual transition. The classroom is just being put together as it was under renos as was the whole school. So it is a bit scattered. After work today, I talked myself into going for a beer at a local pub. I met two people one lives in a small village around town and the other actually just moved to Thame last week. She actually is from New Zealand, but has been in the UK for a year. She told me to come back as there are lots of nice people to meet. I hope to talk more with her and find out about the interesting travelling she has done.
Well as you know I just finished eating flat pancakes and I must get the dishes done before I can settle in with a pot of tea and my book for the night.
I'll let you know how Friday goes with the students! Say a little prayer for me!
Every Tuesday they have an outdoor market, all year round. So I walked through it yesterday. I loved it. Fruits and veggies, bakery goods. I bought a pair of warm slippers. And if I really wanted to I could have bought some parts for my vacuum. I spent more time walking through the town itself. I found both of the fitness facilities. One is too far to walk to everyday, and I would use that as an excuse so that one is out. The little one by my place is cute, but little. They offer spin classes (which makes me happy) but they only have 6 bikes!
I have emptied my suitcases! I think for the first time in 8 months I am finally out of a suitcase. Not everything is hung or put away, but I don't care. I am suppose to be getting my bed tomorrow and my head teacher is going to loan me her futon. I promise to take pictures and post them. I just want to wait till I have more things and I don't look like I am living like a savage.
I started work today! I took pictures of the school which I will post on facebook when I am done here. What an amazing staff. So friendly and welcoming! It was a little stressful as I started the first day of two learning the Team Teach stuff. I think I was a little disillusioned about the type of students I am going to be having in my class. Lets just say I will be ready to handle escalating physical behaviour. I knew as soon as they said the windows only open one way so the kids can't jump out, I was in a true behavioural setting. I meet the students on Friday. I am fortunate enough to be job sharing for the first while with a teacher that has been at the school and knows the ins and outs. So I will have a nice gradual transition. The classroom is just being put together as it was under renos as was the whole school. So it is a bit scattered. After work today, I talked myself into going for a beer at a local pub. I met two people one lives in a small village around town and the other actually just moved to Thame last week. She actually is from New Zealand, but has been in the UK for a year. She told me to come back as there are lots of nice people to meet. I hope to talk more with her and find out about the interesting travelling she has done.
Well as you know I just finished eating flat pancakes and I must get the dishes done before I can settle in with a pot of tea and my book for the night.
I'll let you know how Friday goes with the students! Say a little prayer for me!
Getting Settled!
I apologize for my lack of posts over the past couple of days. I have been busy! Where to start...
I travelled by train for the first time on Friday. I went all the way to have tea with the Queen at Windsor Castle. Can you believe she forgot about having tea with Princess Tiana! So instead I walked around the castle and looked at some very beautiful things. It is too bad that I couldn't take pictures on the inside. The town of Windsor itself is small, but cute. Too see pictures, I will post some on facebook.
Saturday, I got keys to my new flat. I love it! I am so happy to be in my own space. It is slowly coming together. Having an unfurnished place is quite difficult. I have gotten a few odds and ends from a few people. I have also bought a few decorative things to make it my own. As I was putting the sheets on my bed, I had to laugh because I subconsciously bought red and white. Including my duvet cover. (Canadian, eh!) Some of the other things that I bought were a white with purple polka dot teapot. Red wine glasses (essentials) with berry coloured bottoms. A few picture frames so I can plaster all my family and friends all over. I found a great little store that had household things so I bought 3 throw pillows, a purple lamp and a stand up mirror. Needless to say I have spent a small fortune. But, I am here for a year and I need to be comfortable. The people here seem so much more friendlier than in Oxford. Just on my first day, I had many conversations with the shopkeepers, I had a girl personally take me through the grocery store. (I couldn't find anything, everything is in different packaging), I even had a shopkeeper carry my mirror back to my flat with me as I had too much to carry. Like that would ever happen back home. I met my neighbour, I think we will get along smashingly well. She is the manager of one of the oldest pubs in town! My landlord is great, he has already gone out of his way to find me some furniture. So life I think will be grand here.
I went by train to Bristol on Sunday, to meet up with a friend who I met in Saskatchewan. Together we went to a football club, the mall, a local pub and then a bar. It was great to people watch. The clothes that some of the girls wear, wow! I think most boys would like to come and spend some time here. I will have to go back to tour around Bristol. It looked amazing, but very busy. I will need at least a weekend to see more sights.
I must tell you that I had a little scare the other day when I went into my wallet. I didn't have my visa! I remembered that I had used it to buy a mobile Internet stick. I hightailed it back to the store. They had it locked in the safe. WOOHOO!
I'll end with this:
Moving away from everyone: scary as hell!
Going out for supper alone: Very lonely!
Realizing that you have miss placed your visa: Holy %#*&!
But having the Internet so I can share my journey with you: Priceless!
I travelled by train for the first time on Friday. I went all the way to have tea with the Queen at Windsor Castle. Can you believe she forgot about having tea with Princess Tiana! So instead I walked around the castle and looked at some very beautiful things. It is too bad that I couldn't take pictures on the inside. The town of Windsor itself is small, but cute. Too see pictures, I will post some on facebook.
Saturday, I got keys to my new flat. I love it! I am so happy to be in my own space. It is slowly coming together. Having an unfurnished place is quite difficult. I have gotten a few odds and ends from a few people. I have also bought a few decorative things to make it my own. As I was putting the sheets on my bed, I had to laugh because I subconsciously bought red and white. Including my duvet cover. (Canadian, eh!) Some of the other things that I bought were a white with purple polka dot teapot. Red wine glasses (essentials) with berry coloured bottoms. A few picture frames so I can plaster all my family and friends all over. I found a great little store that had household things so I bought 3 throw pillows, a purple lamp and a stand up mirror. Needless to say I have spent a small fortune. But, I am here for a year and I need to be comfortable. The people here seem so much more friendlier than in Oxford. Just on my first day, I had many conversations with the shopkeepers, I had a girl personally take me through the grocery store. (I couldn't find anything, everything is in different packaging), I even had a shopkeeper carry my mirror back to my flat with me as I had too much to carry. Like that would ever happen back home. I met my neighbour, I think we will get along smashingly well. She is the manager of one of the oldest pubs in town! My landlord is great, he has already gone out of his way to find me some furniture. So life I think will be grand here.
I went by train to Bristol on Sunday, to meet up with a friend who I met in Saskatchewan. Together we went to a football club, the mall, a local pub and then a bar. It was great to people watch. The clothes that some of the girls wear, wow! I think most boys would like to come and spend some time here. I will have to go back to tour around Bristol. It looked amazing, but very busy. I will need at least a weekend to see more sights.
I must tell you that I had a little scare the other day when I went into my wallet. I didn't have my visa! I remembered that I had used it to buy a mobile Internet stick. I hightailed it back to the store. They had it locked in the safe. WOOHOO!
I'll end with this:
Moving away from everyone: scary as hell!
Going out for supper alone: Very lonely!
Realizing that you have miss placed your visa: Holy %#*&!
But having the Internet so I can share my journey with you: Priceless!
Today I was a Tourist
I am having problems putting more than a few pictures on my blog. So if you truly want to see more pictures you are going to have to suck it up and join facebook. I was finally able to be a tourist today since my housing issue has been resolved. I paid for a tour of the Oxford Castle. The story of the castle is interesting in that it started as a castle, then it was a prison until 1996 (yup, that's right, just 14 years ago and you should see what the rooms were like). Now it is a tourist attraction.
I walked around and toured many of the different colleges and walked down beautiful streets. It was the Oxford that I thought I was moving too. I even shopped today! I bought a new suitcase to replace the blasted one that broke my first day. Guess what colour it is? You guessed it, purple! As I was having an emotional moment of loneliness I happened upon a shoe store! Where I bought my first pair of RUBBERS! and you guessed it black with purple polka dots!
I found out that I get to move into my flat on Saturday! I am super excited as living in this hostel has worn me down. Even if I am sleeping on the floor in the flat it is worth it! I am looking forward to going to a smaller place that is more quaint. Maybe I will actually meet some people that will be willing to talk. I think I will have more confidence to go out there too. In Oxford it is the same as many major cities. Unless you are with others it is hard to have a conversation. In other words it has been a lonely couple of days. I caved today and bought a bottle of wine, which I am enjoying as I am typing this and doing a load of laundry. Yes, I said a bottle for two reasons, it was only 4 pounds more for a bottle than a glass. I am no genius (although, I am in Oxford), but really! Second reason, I deserve it! Who knows maybe I will get some liquid courage and actually go out and have a meal in a hour. (It would be the first real meal that I have eaten here).
I am debating on what to do tomorrow. I think I will hop onto the train and see where I end up!
If you can't read the picture of the sign it does say "The Famous Turf Tavern, an education in intoxication" How fitting!
To all my work colleagues: Enjoy your first day tomorrow!
Rainy Day Brings on Good Luck!
Maybe the rain is my good luck. After having an emotional day yesterday, today has been tremendously better. (Probably why I didn't post anything yesterday).
I have been to my school and met my head teacher (Principal) and she is fabulous. So nice and extremely helpful. She has done nothing but go out of her way to ensure that I will have a place to live. Not only did she and I make multiple phone calls to many letting agencies. She even took me to view a flat.
I believe love at first sight would be the best way to describe my new flat. It is in a little town called Thame. It's high street is super cute. I don't live far from there. It is a loft type place. It is in the end stages of being renovated which makes it even better. I won't spoil all of the details yet, as my description won't do it justice. The flat is obviously smaller than anything you would find back home. It is in an old Victorian house. The kitchen and bathroom are on one floor, the spiral staircase leads up to the main area. It is split by wood beams, but is completely open. I will have to "create" my own bedroom. It has a lot of windows, and my front kitchen window looks onto the main street. Guess how lucky I am? I look out at a brewery. Which probably means more people will want to visit me now. It is however unfurnished but I can live like an university student and take odds and ends to create my space. There is a site here like kijiji, so I should have no problem finding stuff. The groundskeeper at the school is able to pick anything up that I need.
I don't get to move in till next week so a few more nights at the hostel for me. I've had roomies from Switzerland, Singapore, and Taiwan. Unfortunately they have come in after midnight and I haven't had much time to talk to them. Between the late night guests and the construction on the railway outside my window all night, I have had some 'super' sleeps! On Saturday the grounds keeper's wife is coming to get me and I am going to stay at their place in Wheatley for a few nights until I can get into my place. Super nice people. Wheatley and Thame are closer to my school than Oxford so a shorter bus ride. They are both very accessible to Oxford and many of the other centres.
My school is as cute as the pictures were on the website. I haven't taken any personal pictures as they are still finishing up some Reno's. My classroom is small, but perfect. My window opens to the back green space. It is hard to describe it, but if you can feel my energy right now you will know that I am very satisfied. School starts for me on Wednesday Sept. 1st with the students starting on the 3rd. I may go and travel a bit in the next few days now that I know I have lodging.
When I said it was raining I really meant that it has been pouring all day. I should know as I waited for a bus this afternoon, I froze as it passed me without stopping. I didn't realize you had to physically wave at the bus because standing at the stop is not enough. I could even see my breath, it is August, right? The locals are complaining about the weather too.
Tomorrow's agenda is to buy a suitcase, hairdryer and find a mobile Internet stick. I may even get gutsy enough and go for a beer by myself. Strange things may happen to me from across the pond.
I have been to my school and met my head teacher (Principal) and she is fabulous. So nice and extremely helpful. She has done nothing but go out of her way to ensure that I will have a place to live. Not only did she and I make multiple phone calls to many letting agencies. She even took me to view a flat.
I believe love at first sight would be the best way to describe my new flat. It is in a little town called Thame. It's high street is super cute. I don't live far from there. It is a loft type place. It is in the end stages of being renovated which makes it even better. I won't spoil all of the details yet, as my description won't do it justice. The flat is obviously smaller than anything you would find back home. It is in an old Victorian house. The kitchen and bathroom are on one floor, the spiral staircase leads up to the main area. It is split by wood beams, but is completely open. I will have to "create" my own bedroom. It has a lot of windows, and my front kitchen window looks onto the main street. Guess how lucky I am? I look out at a brewery. Which probably means more people will want to visit me now. It is however unfurnished but I can live like an university student and take odds and ends to create my space. There is a site here like kijiji, so I should have no problem finding stuff. The groundskeeper at the school is able to pick anything up that I need.
I don't get to move in till next week so a few more nights at the hostel for me. I've had roomies from Switzerland, Singapore, and Taiwan. Unfortunately they have come in after midnight and I haven't had much time to talk to them. Between the late night guests and the construction on the railway outside my window all night, I have had some 'super' sleeps! On Saturday the grounds keeper's wife is coming to get me and I am going to stay at their place in Wheatley for a few nights until I can get into my place. Super nice people. Wheatley and Thame are closer to my school than Oxford so a shorter bus ride. They are both very accessible to Oxford and many of the other centres.
My school is as cute as the pictures were on the website. I haven't taken any personal pictures as they are still finishing up some Reno's. My classroom is small, but perfect. My window opens to the back green space. It is hard to describe it, but if you can feel my energy right now you will know that I am very satisfied. School starts for me on Wednesday Sept. 1st with the students starting on the 3rd. I may go and travel a bit in the next few days now that I know I have lodging.
When I said it was raining I really meant that it has been pouring all day. I should know as I waited for a bus this afternoon, I froze as it passed me without stopping. I didn't realize you had to physically wave at the bus because standing at the stop is not enough. I could even see my breath, it is August, right? The locals are complaining about the weather too.
Tomorrow's agenda is to buy a suitcase, hairdryer and find a mobile Internet stick. I may even get gutsy enough and go for a beer by myself. Strange things may happen to me from across the pond.
Oxford: Oh how beautiful you are!
I arrived in Oxford just before 2pm. Through the rain and sun the drive from London reminded me a lot of the prairies, except there were a lot more sheep farms. We drove past the little town of Wheatly, where my school is based out of. Too cute!
Oxford is chaos, there are people everywhere, and cars driving on the wrong side of the street! I am glad that I chose not to look at driving here. Too be honest the whole cycling thing scares me a bit too!
Got off the bus in city centre, felt pretty good until I realized that I couldn't drag all of my luggage to get to a taxi. I stood on the street and laughed at how silly I must have looked. Just when I thought I got my act together, my one suitcase handle to pull the wheels broke. (no problem it only weighs 50lbs). So now I am really laughing, a young women bless her heart could see I was going nowhere fast and helped me walk to a taxi. As I walked to the taxi my pants got caught on the broken part of the handle and I went down on the pavement right infront of the busy city centre. Oh the humour! Just a minor war wound on my knee. I made it to the hostel and all I wanted to do was have a shower.
I am in a dorm room with 2 other bunks, but so far I am alone. After showering I pulled out my handy adaptor so I could blowdry my hair, only to break my hairdryer. Apparently it is 250V not the 240V that the convertor is for. (I am a little hesitant to plug my laptop in now).
I made it though out to enjoy the pouring rain and some sun walking back to city centre. I was able to buy a phone and get it hooked up. If you want the number please email me and I will send it to you. It costs nothing for me to receive calls anytime of day. So it depends on how your international plan is.
I am sitting in the lobby in the hostel right now, about to start the challenge of finding a place to live. It is buzzing with people of all ages. As the sun(clouds) is going down, I am eagerly anticipating bed as sleeping 3 hours on the plane probably isn't going to help me get anything accomplished tomorrow.
I thought I would get some pictures posted today, but I left my camera locked upstairs so you will have to wait!
Oxford is chaos, there are people everywhere, and cars driving on the wrong side of the street! I am glad that I chose not to look at driving here. Too be honest the whole cycling thing scares me a bit too!
Got off the bus in city centre, felt pretty good until I realized that I couldn't drag all of my luggage to get to a taxi. I stood on the street and laughed at how silly I must have looked. Just when I thought I got my act together, my one suitcase handle to pull the wheels broke. (no problem it only weighs 50lbs). So now I am really laughing, a young women bless her heart could see I was going nowhere fast and helped me walk to a taxi. As I walked to the taxi my pants got caught on the broken part of the handle and I went down on the pavement right infront of the busy city centre. Oh the humour! Just a minor war wound on my knee. I made it to the hostel and all I wanted to do was have a shower.
I am in a dorm room with 2 other bunks, but so far I am alone. After showering I pulled out my handy adaptor so I could blowdry my hair, only to break my hairdryer. Apparently it is 250V not the 240V that the convertor is for. (I am a little hesitant to plug my laptop in now).
I made it though out to enjoy the pouring rain and some sun walking back to city centre. I was able to buy a phone and get it hooked up. If you want the number please email me and I will send it to you. It costs nothing for me to receive calls anytime of day. So it depends on how your international plan is.
I am sitting in the lobby in the hostel right now, about to start the challenge of finding a place to live. It is buzzing with people of all ages. As the sun(clouds) is going down, I am eagerly anticipating bed as sleeping 3 hours on the plane probably isn't going to help me get anything accomplished tomorrow.
I thought I would get some pictures posted today, but I left my camera locked upstairs so you will have to wait!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
And So It Begins!
My last morning in Canada and I wake up to clouds and smoke. I think I will have enough of that for the next year.
I must have been sleeping when I read the requirements for baggage for my flight as I have one too many bags! Oh well, I would rather pay the money and have the extra pair of shoes than have to worry about not having shoes to match my outfits.
My grandma is making me blueberry pancakes for my last Canadian breakfast, my favourite!
My stomach is in knots and I am feeling a little jittery! But, this is all going to be worth it, I know it!
Talk to you all soon from across the pond!
I must have been sleeping when I read the requirements for baggage for my flight as I have one too many bags! Oh well, I would rather pay the money and have the extra pair of shoes than have to worry about not having shoes to match my outfits.
My grandma is making me blueberry pancakes for my last Canadian breakfast, my favourite!
My stomach is in knots and I am feeling a little jittery! But, this is all going to be worth it, I know it!
Talk to you all soon from across the pond!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Final Weekend in Canada!
My first post! I am off to Calgary this afternoon to spend a night with my brother. Tomorrow is a day with family. Sunday is the big day, I fly out at 7:20pm. Reality won't set in until I am on the plane. I feel better knowing where I go once I am off the plane at the Heathrow airport.
This has been a whirlwind summer. It is hard to continually say good-bye to friends and family. The hardest was leaving my dog at my dad's, watching him look out the front window as I drove away. It was heartbreaking. The sad thing is he doesn't know that I am going to be back.
I have appreciated all of the support and encouragement from everyone. I know this will be a life changing experience and I look forward to sharing it on this blog.
Let the journey begin!
This has been a whirlwind summer. It is hard to continually say good-bye to friends and family. The hardest was leaving my dog at my dad's, watching him look out the front window as I drove away. It was heartbreaking. The sad thing is he doesn't know that I am going to be back.
I have appreciated all of the support and encouragement from everyone. I know this will be a life changing experience and I look forward to sharing it on this blog.
Let the journey begin!
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