- I love learning and I thoroughly enjoy school. I think that it helps me become a better person every day and I am able to contribute a little more to the world because of it. I am taking an Urban Tourism class where we have been learning about regeneration policies and how different kinds of tourism impacts a neighborhood. It is fabulous. I am learning so much. I am also taking an Art and Society class where we discover different masterpieces around London and talk about how they fit into society at the time. Again, this class is great and I am learning so much about the city that I live in. I am also taking a foreign policy class that is interesting and a little difficult to follow, but it is interesting to hear perspectives from around the world
- I really enjoy class, but the sitting and writing papers and essays just takes up too much darn time! I know that it's just a part of it and I will be fine. But I would much rather get home and read an entertaining book that doesn't make me think to hard or at least doesn't have an authority figure who requires an essay after I've read it.
2. I will have a fireplace.
- In which I will sit in front and read the previously mentioned book.
3. I will work at a place with an espresso machine.
- I am only slightly embarrassed to say that I look forward to work every Wednesday, primarily because I get to make a late using the AWESOME coffee maker. My boss Richard and the IT mastermind Bruno have been my unsuspecting coffee mentors. They don't know it...but I spy on them when they're in the kitchen. I probably shouldn't admit that, but I think it's worth mentioning that my barista skills have improved greatly.
- Work overall is great. I am earning more responsibilities and Directory of Social Change has been hosting some great conferences! The people are what make this place extraordinary! They are all great, caring people who really make the environment in the office comfortable and they are motivated by their jobs to make the business work in the most efficient and productive way possible. I am truly very grateful for all they have done for me and I look forward to the next half of my time there.
- Employees in the UK receive six weeks of paid vacation (or holiday as it is called here) a year. While, I think that is quite a lot and would probably never be able to take off that much work, it is the attitude that they have towards these holidays that I want to take with me. Holiday is a time for family and for seeing the world. The English travel around Europe and find their favorite places that they hope to pass down to their children. They also don't always go back to the same 'favorite'. Traveling around and discovering new places is something I've always wanted to do and I want to continue doing as I grow older. This rejuvenation and time for relaxation is something that I have to remind myself is important. While I want a very successful career and professional life, it's important to put that success to use by taking myself and my family on holiday. Beach time, anyone?
5. My guest bedroom will be the best of them all.
- 'Tis the season of guests! I had the honor to be visited by Anne and Emily 2 of my girls from home. It was amazing to see them and to be able to add two editions to our pack! I know that someday all my friends will be scattered all over the world. When they come to see me from all over the US, France, Switzerland, South America, and maybe even space ;)...then my guest room will be ready to entertain them and their families. There will be cute antiques and a comfy bed and enough pillows for an army! I love having guests and I look forward to all those who are coming soon; My dad, Angela, Natalie, and TJ. And even those who live here and just walk down the sidewalk or jump on the tube to come visit. One day, I'll host you all in style!
6. I'll prove to my sister that I can actually cook.
- I am a very good cook...no matter what my sister tells you. We all know there was a dish that I royally screwed up on...but no one can remember so it can't be that important. While I've been here, I have cooked some pretty good stuff. Broiled salmon with a honey, mustard and herb glaze along with some very good friend chicken and beef and broccoli are just a few! When I have my own kitchen and the means to stock my shelves...watch out Lex! I'll be better than you ;) I'm already a better baker...but bring it on!
7. I will have a spot.
- I haven't visited enough places in London yet to have a spot. I go to the same coffee shop once a week but other than that, I don't go out to the same place and I don't eat at the same place. But someday when I am a local somewhere, I will. I was able to go to some great places this week, including London Oktoberfest. Some of the Westminster girls went to the Bavarian Bierhaus for a beer last week. It was a lot of fun and although it wasn't Munich (it was also a Wednesday) we had us an eyeful of dirndles. I'll have to look into the purchase sometime...
- Anyway, on the way home I realized how great a spot can be. The Bierhaus isn't for a weekly visit, but having good conversation over a drink was a great way to break up tedious class and work. On the way back I was welcomed home to the first floor with laughter and delicious smells leaking out of the window. I walked in to say hello and found about 30 people all hanging out in the kitchen! I saw some friends and met some new ones and the room had such a great buzz of energy! After a late dinner of steak and risotto cooked by an amazingly humble neighbor...I realized that maybe that spot is closer and more 'at home' than you think.
8. I'll come back to London.
- I would like to come back here as an adult, if not sooner. This place already holds a special place in my heart and as I grow and mature and even change, I want to come back and see how the city has matured and grown and changed. I want to come back to these neighborhoods and see if they still feel the same. When Anne was here she made the comment that the streets look fake. It's kind of true. Some buildings just look like they have a mass produced front to look old. I think that is my US perception where there are no really old buildings. Old is relative and compared to Europe...US buildings are not old. Also, I went to Camden Market again this weekend (it's the huge one that I went to first) and I saw so many things that I missed the first time. I could keep revisiting places only to find new things every day! I want to come back and someday, I will.
Cheers!
No comments:
Post a Comment