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!
Saturday, November 6, 2010
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.
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