I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing my life with some of my family, friends, and a few strangers through this blog, although it still feels odd that you all know me far better than I know you! I'm shutting down the blog as it's time to return to a more private life where every adventure isn't displayed publicly through photos and stories. Besides, grocery shopping just doesn't hold the same level of intrigue in Canada as it does in England.
Part of me feels like I'm letting people down. So many of you have followed along on this journey for quite some time and I feel like you deserve an incredible finale, but there's no dramatic ending to this story. The final line of this chapter doesn't quite feel complete, but I guess that's what's so great about life: the story is never quite finished.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Accent
I'm going to miss the variety of accents I was able to enjoy listening to in England! In Canada we tend to think there are only two accents - the Queen's English and Cockney. There are hundreds of different accents. The way people drop consonants is one of my favourite things (for example, "kettle" with no "t" sound). I recorded a few video clips to share a glimpse of my English life. (Have patience - some of the files might take a few minutes to load.)
Emma saying, "Oh my word," a phrase that often escapes her lips and now I say it all the time.
On my last night in England I played a game with friends where we gave verbal hints to our team to get them to guess the word written on a card. A prime opportunity to record a couple of voices.
Emma getting her team to guess a few words. My favourite was the last word when she tried to get her team to guess "Essex". You'll hear the word "chav" a couple of times - this is a slang term for the teenage guys who wear big baseball caps, imitation Adidas tracksuits, gold chains, and swagger around town like they own the world but don't care about anything or anybody. I guess there are a lot of chavs in Essex.
Jess getting her team to guess a few words. Jess has one of my favourite accents - she drops consonants all the time and she also does a pretty decent imitation of an American accent (sadly, I didn't capture this skill on film).
Sarah is from south-west London but she has lived in Eastbourne for a few years. I recorded this clip on my birthday after we had afternoon tea - we were standing at the bus station. She loves to imitate my accent and the story about the title of "Little Britain" is true.
"There's a hilarious television show called 'Little Britain' and..."
"Is it actually called 'Lit'o Britain' or is that just your accent coming through and it's called 'Little Britain'?"
"What?"
"I mean, is the title of the show 'Lit'o Britain', as in 'l-i-t-apostrophe-o', in order to be funny, or is it called 'Little Britain' and you're just saying it with your accent?"
"No, no, no, it's 'Little Britain'!" (said with emphasis on the 'l')
Oh, the confusing delights of a common language!
. . . . . . . . .
Emma saying, "Oh my word," a phrase that often escapes her lips and now I say it all the time.
Emma was horrified to discover that I had idea who Dr. Who is. I had heard the name numerous times while I was in England but I've never seen the show or heard anything about him beyond his name. Emma decided to enlighten me and I videotaped her explanation of Dr. Who. She scares me sometimes.
. . . . . . . . .
On my last night in England I played a game with friends where we gave verbal hints to our team to get them to guess the word written on a card. A prime opportunity to record a couple of voices.
Emma getting her team to guess a few words. My favourite was the last word when she tried to get her team to guess "Essex". You'll hear the word "chav" a couple of times - this is a slang term for the teenage guys who wear big baseball caps, imitation Adidas tracksuits, gold chains, and swagger around town like they own the world but don't care about anything or anybody. I guess there are a lot of chavs in Essex.
Jess getting her team to guess a few words. Jess has one of my favourite accents - she drops consonants all the time and she also does a pretty decent imitation of an American accent (sadly, I didn't capture this skill on film).
. . . . . . . . .
"There's a hilarious television show called 'Little Britain' and..."
"Is it actually called 'Lit'o Britain' or is that just your accent coming through and it's called 'Little Britain'?"
"What?"
"I mean, is the title of the show 'Lit'o Britain', as in 'l-i-t-apostrophe-o', in order to be funny, or is it called 'Little Britain' and you're just saying it with your accent?"
"No, no, no, it's 'Little Britain'!" (said with emphasis on the 'l')
Oh, the confusing delights of a common language!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. "How was your time in England?"
A. The short answer: Fabulous! The long answer: Read my blog.
Q. "What was your favourite place?"
A. I really can't narrow it down to one particular place or experience because the things that stand out in my mind change from day to day. I think my favourite cities were Rome (incredible history), Salzburg (friendly, pretty, and cozy), and London (a lot to see and it makes me feel proud to be part of the Commonwealth). A few of my favourite experiences, in no particular order: I never grew tired of hearing Big Ben chime at the parliament buildings in London, visiting Poland and connecting with my roots was amazing, I loved being a part of a wonderful church family, I love being able to say I climbed the Leaning Tower of Pisa, being the foreigner with the hot accent is a fabulous experience, walking along the outer wall of Harlech Castle was surreal, learning how to catch a sheep with a crook was an unexpected perk of spending Christmas on a farm, and it was great to settle in and feel like a foreign country was my home for a little while.
Q. "So, you didn't find a husband, eh?"
A. No, I didn't, but one more week and I'm sure I would have had an engagement ring. (It has surprised me to discover how popular this question is on both sides of the ocean - apparently a lot of people were expecting me to relocate with a spousal visa!)
Q. "How did you travel for so long without any income?"
A. When I first started considering this trip in January 2008, I began saving my money. I paid room-and-board, tithed, put fuel in my car, and spent money on little else. My self-control was motivated by considering every expenditure as a portion of a flight from England into Europe ("A sweater for $45? That's almost a flight to Italy!" or "A Starbucks drink for $4.50? Seven of those and I could fly to Ireland!"). I ended up spending about $13,000/£7,300 during the past eleven months. I didn't set myself a budget, I just tried to be sensible about expenditures. Because I didn't keep any kind of budget or records, I really have no idea how my money stretched so far. I was given free or cheap accommodation several times when I travelled, but, logically, my money still shouldn't have stretched so far. The credit goes to God because it's a miracle that I was able to do so much with so little.
Q. "Are you going to keep writing your blog?"
A. No, the blog is nearly finished - only one more post... or maybe two. I'll leave the blog online for quite a while, but I won't write any additional posts. It's time for my private life to return to being private and just live a normal life without always thinking, "Hey! That would be great for my blog!" I've let people see into my heart every day for long enough; I want to return to focusing on two-way friendships.
Q. "Are you going to publish a book?"
A. I plan to create a hard-copy record of this blog by self-publishing a full-colour, hard-cover book for myself and the few others who want copies. It will likely take three to six months to be ready to go to print and I'm not sure what the price will be (based on a previous project, I figure it will likely be $50 - 100 per copy). The content and format may change slightly - the "boring" posts removed, some photos changed, maybe add a few extra stories that I didn't want to publish publicly. I may also print a smaller photo book with brief captions - something a little less overwhelming than the complete blog. If you're interested in purchasing a copy, please email me (apiechnik@gmail.com) to indicate which book you'd prefer and I'll put your name and email address on a list. Once I've worked out prices, I'll get in touch so you can make a final decision.
I know how many people read this blog on a regular basis and the number is far more than the thirty people who have told me they read it. If you feel like finally fessing up instead of lurking, please post a comment or send me an email!
apiechnik@gmail.com
A. The short answer: Fabulous! The long answer: Read my blog.
Q. "What was your favourite place?"
A. I really can't narrow it down to one particular place or experience because the things that stand out in my mind change from day to day. I think my favourite cities were Rome (incredible history), Salzburg (friendly, pretty, and cozy), and London (a lot to see and it makes me feel proud to be part of the Commonwealth). A few of my favourite experiences, in no particular order: I never grew tired of hearing Big Ben chime at the parliament buildings in London, visiting Poland and connecting with my roots was amazing, I loved being a part of a wonderful church family, I love being able to say I climbed the Leaning Tower of Pisa, being the foreigner with the hot accent is a fabulous experience, walking along the outer wall of Harlech Castle was surreal, learning how to catch a sheep with a crook was an unexpected perk of spending Christmas on a farm, and it was great to settle in and feel like a foreign country was my home for a little while.
Q. "So, you didn't find a husband, eh?"
A. No, I didn't, but one more week and I'm sure I would have had an engagement ring. (It has surprised me to discover how popular this question is on both sides of the ocean - apparently a lot of people were expecting me to relocate with a spousal visa!)
Q. "How did you travel for so long without any income?"
A. When I first started considering this trip in January 2008, I began saving my money. I paid room-and-board, tithed, put fuel in my car, and spent money on little else. My self-control was motivated by considering every expenditure as a portion of a flight from England into Europe ("A sweater for $45? That's almost a flight to Italy!" or "A Starbucks drink for $4.50? Seven of those and I could fly to Ireland!"). I ended up spending about $13,000/£7,300 during the past eleven months. I didn't set myself a budget, I just tried to be sensible about expenditures. Because I didn't keep any kind of budget or records, I really have no idea how my money stretched so far. I was given free or cheap accommodation several times when I travelled, but, logically, my money still shouldn't have stretched so far. The credit goes to God because it's a miracle that I was able to do so much with so little.
Q. "Are you going to keep writing your blog?"
A. No, the blog is nearly finished - only one more post... or maybe two. I'll leave the blog online for quite a while, but I won't write any additional posts. It's time for my private life to return to being private and just live a normal life without always thinking, "Hey! That would be great for my blog!" I've let people see into my heart every day for long enough; I want to return to focusing on two-way friendships.
Q. "Are you going to publish a book?"
A. I plan to create a hard-copy record of this blog by self-publishing a full-colour, hard-cover book for myself and the few others who want copies. It will likely take three to six months to be ready to go to print and I'm not sure what the price will be (based on a previous project, I figure it will likely be $50 - 100 per copy). The content and format may change slightly - the "boring" posts removed, some photos changed, maybe add a few extra stories that I didn't want to publish publicly. I may also print a smaller photo book with brief captions - something a little less overwhelming than the complete blog. If you're interested in purchasing a copy, please email me (apiechnik@gmail.com) to indicate which book you'd prefer and I'll put your name and email address on a list. Once I've worked out prices, I'll get in touch so you can make a final decision.
. . . . . . . . .
I know how many people read this blog on a regular basis and the number is far more than the thirty people who have told me they read it. If you feel like finally fessing up instead of lurking, please post a comment or send me an email!
apiechnik@gmail.com
A Summary
Total blog entries published: 233
Length of time to create each entry: usually an hour or two, often longer
Number of days spent working on the blog: 233 entries x 2 hours per entry ÷ 24 hours = 19 days (or almost 12 weeks of full-time work at 8 hours per day)
Number of photos shot during this trip: 5,973
Number of photos used on the blog: 1,372 (not including links to extra albums)
Quirky Dreams Fulfilled:
Walk on the Cobb at Lyme Regis.
Work on a farm during lambing season.
Toss a coin in Trevi Fountain.
Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
See bluebell fields in England.
Experience a West End theatre production in London.
Have my photo taken in front of the Eiffel Tower.
Eat outside at a cafe in Paris.
Drink a proper cream tea.
See a live Panda.
Hear live, classical music in Vienna.
Visit Portobello Road.
Eat fish and chips at the beach (ate chips at the beach).
See the crown jewels at the Tower of London.
Quirky Dreams Yet to happen:
Watch a pantomime.
See sunflower fields blooming in Italy.
See the white and blue buildings on the coast in Greece.
Do a road trip through the Maritime provinces of Canada.
See the clusters of monarch butterflies in Mexico.
A selection of some of my favourite photos:
October 10, 2008
The folding fork represents my fascination with everything quirky and charming in England. Yes, I brought it home as a souvenier.
October 19, 2008
Me and Qimmiq in Wales.
The house-sitting opportunity was the first adventure of many that were simply dropped in my lap.
Length of time to create each entry: usually an hour or two, often longer
Number of days spent working on the blog: 233 entries x 2 hours per entry ÷ 24 hours = 19 days (or almost 12 weeks of full-time work at 8 hours per day)
Number of photos shot during this trip: 5,973
Number of photos used on the blog: 1,372 (not including links to extra albums)
. . . . . . . . .
Quirky Dreams Fulfilled:
Walk on the Cobb at Lyme Regis.
Work on a farm during lambing season.
Toss a coin in Trevi Fountain.
Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
See bluebell fields in England.
Experience a West End theatre production in London.
Have my photo taken in front of the Eiffel Tower.
Eat outside at a cafe in Paris.
Drink a proper cream tea.
See a live Panda.
Hear live, classical music in Vienna.
Visit Portobello Road.
Eat fish and chips at the beach (ate chips at the beach).
See the crown jewels at the Tower of London.
Quirky Dreams Yet to happen:
Watch a pantomime.
See sunflower fields blooming in Italy.
See the white and blue buildings on the coast in Greece.
Do a road trip through the Maritime provinces of Canada.
See the clusters of monarch butterflies in Mexico.
. . . . . . . . .
A selection of some of my favourite photos:
October 10, 2008The folding fork represents my fascination with everything quirky and charming in England. Yes, I brought it home as a souvenier.
October 19, 2008Me and Qimmiq in Wales.
The house-sitting opportunity was the first adventure of many that were simply dropped in my lap.
This was my laptop background photo throughout my time in England.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Reflections on Solo Travel
I've had so many people gasp and tell me I'm brave when they heard I moved to England alone. People of all ages seem shocked that I've spent so much time travelling by myself, but I really don't feel courageous or out of the ordinary. Just ask my family and they'll tell you I'm usually a wimp who loves the comforts of a cozy home. It certainly wasn't my dream to travel solo. Seeing the world alone isn't as scary as most people seem to think... or maybe God has just blinded me to the things that should have terrified me.
Many people who follow this blog have never met me or have just had brief chats with me and they assume I must be one of those wander-lust world-travellers. I've actually never had those feet that itch to see the world. I didn't spend years dreaming about doing this trip; the thought of living abroad occurred to me in January 2008 and I arrived in England ten months later. This trip was born out of a desire to experience life in another country, step outside my comfort zone, learn to trust God to daily provide for me, and dare to fulfill dreams alone. Travelling was a perk that came with the territory.
It really disappoints me to discover that most women I've spoken with about this trip have told me they would never consider travelling alone. It's not something I would suggest for every woman, but I think more people should consider it. Through solo travel you have to solve problems and be your own advocate. No group tour, no friend to giggle with, no husband to order food for you in a foreign language, no backups. It's just you alone with your thoughts, hopes, dreams, and fears. Writing that makes me laugh and realize why people think I'm crazy. If somebody had the option to travel with friends, why on earth would they travel alone? In the midst of the loneliness, moments of panic, and abundance of joy, I've learned things about God and myself that I would never see if I had the comforts of having people around to support me. I love travelling with other people because it's a great way to see the world, but I don't want to hold back on adventure simply because solo travel offers unique challenges.
I think once in a while we all need to find a way to break down our comfort zone and see what doors open unexpectedly as a result. I'm talking to myself as much as anyone else – I love my comfort zone and it's never easy to push beyond it. A few months ago I received an email from a friend who stepped out of her comfort zone by joining a yoga class alone and I was so excited for her. I think there are little things we can do to spread our wings and find joy in the little things but we get too comfortable with the familiar. Try a new recipe. Venture out to a "new members" night at a photography or gardening club. Walk in a park you've driven past a hundred times, but never bothered stopping. Buy a milk-shake and sit on a bench to people-watch. Drive to the beach alone and watch a sunset.
Live from the heart! Keep watching for a breathtaking piece of folly, no matter how small, that God places in front of you to delight your heart and make other people shake their heads at you.
Many people who follow this blog have never met me or have just had brief chats with me and they assume I must be one of those wander-lust world-travellers. I've actually never had those feet that itch to see the world. I didn't spend years dreaming about doing this trip; the thought of living abroad occurred to me in January 2008 and I arrived in England ten months later. This trip was born out of a desire to experience life in another country, step outside my comfort zone, learn to trust God to daily provide for me, and dare to fulfill dreams alone. Travelling was a perk that came with the territory.
It really disappoints me to discover that most women I've spoken with about this trip have told me they would never consider travelling alone. It's not something I would suggest for every woman, but I think more people should consider it. Through solo travel you have to solve problems and be your own advocate. No group tour, no friend to giggle with, no husband to order food for you in a foreign language, no backups. It's just you alone with your thoughts, hopes, dreams, and fears. Writing that makes me laugh and realize why people think I'm crazy. If somebody had the option to travel with friends, why on earth would they travel alone? In the midst of the loneliness, moments of panic, and abundance of joy, I've learned things about God and myself that I would never see if I had the comforts of having people around to support me. I love travelling with other people because it's a great way to see the world, but I don't want to hold back on adventure simply because solo travel offers unique challenges.
I think once in a while we all need to find a way to break down our comfort zone and see what doors open unexpectedly as a result. I'm talking to myself as much as anyone else – I love my comfort zone and it's never easy to push beyond it. A few months ago I received an email from a friend who stepped out of her comfort zone by joining a yoga class alone and I was so excited for her. I think there are little things we can do to spread our wings and find joy in the little things but we get too comfortable with the familiar. Try a new recipe. Venture out to a "new members" night at a photography or gardening club. Walk in a park you've driven past a hundred times, but never bothered stopping. Buy a milk-shake and sit on a bench to people-watch. Drive to the beach alone and watch a sunset.
Live from the heart! Keep watching for a breathtaking piece of folly, no matter how small, that God places in front of you to delight your heart and make other people shake their heads at you.
Friday, August 28, 2009
I'm Home!
"So, is it just you and the baby travelling today?"
- The airline representative who checked my itinerary and assumed Lottie was accompanying me back to Canada. (Emma wouldn't let me take her.)
- The airline representative who checked my itinerary and assumed Lottie was accompanying me back to Canada. (Emma wouldn't let me take her.)
My alarm went off at 6:30 a.m. and I left for the airport with Ian and Rachel at 8:30 a.m. In spite of some detours to avoid heavy highway traffic due to an earlier accident, we made good time and met Matthew, Emma and the girls at the airport. I was delighted to see that Emma was wearing the outfit she bought when I was shopping with her, and Hannah was wearing a Peppa Pig shirt! (I borrowed a DVD from her so I could show my family the adorable cartoon pig family. I also purchased a Peppa Pig book and had their family put their handprints on the inside of the cover for me. The giggles and snorting crack me up!)
We hoped to have a chance to sit down in a coffee shop for a visit before I went through security, but by the time I checked in for my flight, paid the expected excess baggage fees (£230 but the total cost was still cheaper than any other airline so I didn't mind), and dropped my bags off, it was almost time to go through security. Our little group gathered to take a few photos and my tears started falling as we walked toward the security gate. It was tough to walk away from my life in England - the comfort of close friends and a church family I love - toward a life in Canada with family and friends, yet plenty of uncertainty and change. After hugs all around, including a long snuggle from Lottie (she melted into me - a first so I think she knew I was leaving), we gathered in a huddle to pray, and then I walked through security as my little entourage went off to the coffee shop.
Me and my girls, Lottie and Hannah.I love Lottie's smirk behind her thumb-sucking.
Me and Emma.
Me and Rachel.
Hannah spinning for me.
Hannah and her Peppa Pig shirt!My flight ended up being delayed by almost three hours so I technically could have had time to go for coffee with everyone. Instead, I ate lunch alone and napped on a bench. The ten-hour flight went fine and I sat next to a friendly couple, but the individual televisions weren't working very well so the flight seemed to take extra-long. I brought along my Paddington Bear book and enjoyed it during the flight. Such a cute story!
Mom, Dad, and Jonathan were going to meet me at the airport, but only Mom stayed behind when they realized the flight was delayed by almost three hours. It was so good to see family again! Everybody except Adam was at home for supper and some of my favourite foods were served - marinated, barbequed pork tenderloin; Canlis salad; and Clamato. My sister-in-law Keri made whoopie pies for dessert - a first for the family and they were delicious!
. . . . . . . . .
(Click here to listen to O Canada.)O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide, O Canada,
We stand on guard for thee.
Refrain:
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide, O Canada,
We stand on guard for thee.
Refrain:
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada! Where pines and maples grow.
Great prairies spread and lordly rivers flow.
How dear to us thy broad domain,
From East to Western sea.
Thou land of hope for all who toil!
Thou True North, strong and free!
- Refrain
O Canada! Beneath thy shining skies
May stalwart sons, and gentle maidens rise,
To keep thee steadfast through the years
From East to Western sea.
Our own beloved native land!
Our True North, strong and free!
- Refrain
Ruler supreme, who hearest humble prayer,
Hold our Dominion in thy loving care;
Help us to find, O God, in thee
A lasting, rich reward,
As waiting for the better Day,
We ever stand on guard.
- Refrain
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Final Day in England
This morning I met Ann, the woman I lodged with in Hook, in town today. We went out for coffee, caught up on what's been happening in our lives and it was so wonderful to see her one last time before I return to Canada. I'm so grateful to Ann and John for letting me lodge with them, giving me a chance to come and go and explore so much of this part of the world.
I had to run some final errands in town so Rachel met up with me so we could spend time wandering around together. One of my favourite shops here is Accessorize - they have wonderful hats and handbags - and I love the handbag I bought last winter. I was planning to buy another one to take home with me, so Ama and Rachel surprised me by buying one for me as a farewell gift! They told me they were fine with me checking out the stock to exchange it if I preferred another model so Rachel and I spent a ridiculous amount of time in the store looking at bags and hats and oohing and aahing over the stock.
One of my errands was buying some books for my collection. I decided to pick up some British classics so whenever I see them, I'll connect them with my time in England. I bought The Tale of Peter Rabbit, A Bear Called Paddington, and Winnie-the-Pooh.
Rachel and I went to the flat for lunch and then made a chocolate cake because we planned to have a few girls over tonight for fish-and-chips, pudding (dessert) and maybe some games. Ama picked up two containers of strawberries yesterday for a good price so I figured chocolate cake and whipped cream were a good accompaniment! Ama and Rachel invited a few extras to surprise me and we ended up with me, Ama, Rachel, Jess, Emma, and Ian and Maggie. We laughed so much throughout the evening! It was a perfect final get-together. I'm going to miss them all so much! Although I'm excited about returning to Canada, I'm really going to miss my friends here - they've really become like family to me and it's going to be strange to live so far from them.
With ketchup or mayonnaise, fish-and-chips are yummy!
Jess modeling some jelly teeth candy.
I introduced Emma to fast Scrabble about a week ago and she's now introducing it to everyone and winning every time she plays.
The score sheet for fast Scrabble.
Strawberries and cream. Tasty stuff!
We also played a word guessing game, mostly just because Jess wanted to laugh at me trying to guess British-English words. Her wish came true and there were many words that left me completely stumped. A hilarious one was when I had to get my team to guess the word, "cracking" so I said, "It's 'something' good, Grommit" and my team stared at me blankly. I've heard so many people refer to "cracking good fun" or "it's cracking" and the phrase is often used in the Wallace and Grommit films so I figured they'd guess, but they had no clue what I was talking about (though the opposing team started laughing and saying, "We know! We know!"). I finally managed to use an English pop-culture reference in the game and it fell flat. So sad. At least I tried.
Goofing around while I set up the camera.
At one point, something happened to set Rachel off laughing really hard but she was completely silent except for an occasional, high-pitched squeak that made everyone double-over with laughter.
Still laughing at Rachel.
Finally calm enough for a photo!
L-R: Me, Jess, Maggie, Emma, Rachel, Ama, Ian.
I had to run some final errands in town so Rachel met up with me so we could spend time wandering around together. One of my favourite shops here is Accessorize - they have wonderful hats and handbags - and I love the handbag I bought last winter. I was planning to buy another one to take home with me, so Ama and Rachel surprised me by buying one for me as a farewell gift! They told me they were fine with me checking out the stock to exchange it if I preferred another model so Rachel and I spent a ridiculous amount of time in the store looking at bags and hats and oohing and aahing over the stock.
One of my errands was buying some books for my collection. I decided to pick up some British classics so whenever I see them, I'll connect them with my time in England. I bought The Tale of Peter Rabbit, A Bear Called Paddington, and Winnie-the-Pooh.
Rachel and I went to the flat for lunch and then made a chocolate cake because we planned to have a few girls over tonight for fish-and-chips, pudding (dessert) and maybe some games. Ama picked up two containers of strawberries yesterday for a good price so I figured chocolate cake and whipped cream were a good accompaniment! Ama and Rachel invited a few extras to surprise me and we ended up with me, Ama, Rachel, Jess, Emma, and Ian and Maggie. We laughed so much throughout the evening! It was a perfect final get-together. I'm going to miss them all so much! Although I'm excited about returning to Canada, I'm really going to miss my friends here - they've really become like family to me and it's going to be strange to live so far from them.
With ketchup or mayonnaise, fish-and-chips are yummy!
Jess modeling some jelly teeth candy.
I introduced Emma to fast Scrabble about a week ago and she's now introducing it to everyone and winning every time she plays.
The score sheet for fast Scrabble.
Strawberries and cream. Tasty stuff!We also played a word guessing game, mostly just because Jess wanted to laugh at me trying to guess British-English words. Her wish came true and there were many words that left me completely stumped. A hilarious one was when I had to get my team to guess the word, "cracking" so I said, "It's 'something' good, Grommit" and my team stared at me blankly. I've heard so many people refer to "cracking good fun" or "it's cracking" and the phrase is often used in the Wallace and Grommit films so I figured they'd guess, but they had no clue what I was talking about (though the opposing team started laughing and saying, "We know! We know!"). I finally managed to use an English pop-culture reference in the game and it fell flat. So sad. At least I tried.
Goofing around while I set up the camera.
At one point, something happened to set Rachel off laughing really hard but she was completely silent except for an occasional, high-pitched squeak that made everyone double-over with laughter.
Still laughing at Rachel.
Finally calm enough for a photo!L-R: Me, Jess, Maggie, Emma, Rachel, Ama, Ian.
It's now time to finish packing (just a few things remaining to cram into my bags), then it's off to bed and my alarm goes off at 6:30 a.m. Ian and Rachel are driving me to the airport just after 8:00 a.m. and Emma, Matthew and the girls will meet us there. I know I'm leaving but it doesn't quite feel real somehow. I'm going to miss my life here a lot, but I'm excited about the prospect of coming back for vacation!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Grown-ups? Kind of... not really...
At the beginning of the summer, Ruth and Drew decided to start a weekly bible study for those of us in our twenties and thirties. It's been great to get together every week to study the book of Acts, pray for each other, and laugh a lot. My accent and lack of understanding in regards to English slang have been the brunt of numerous jokes.
L-R Back Row: Aidan, Drew, Matt, Nick L-R Front Row: Rachel, Ruth, Jess, Ama
Some of these people I've already introduced and some of the people I haven't known for very long. I met Matt and Nick quite soon after I started attending the church as both of them are involved with music. They play on Sunday mornings and they also work with the youth band - Matt sings and plays guitar and Nick does sound and helps out the drummers. When I first started coming to the church I remembered them mentally as "the guy who looks like Greg Brady" and "the guy who looks like Prince William". Before I learned their names, I was chatting with a man at church and he said, "You know Matt? The guy in the band?" and I replied, "Oh, you mean the guy who looks like Greg Brady?" and he burst out laughing and said, "I've never thought of that before, but it's so true!" I eventually learned their names but I still occasionally have to remind myself that Matt's name isn't Greg.
I met Jess last Christmas when she was home from university for the holidays and we had a great time washing up the dishes in the kitchen after a church event. She just thought my accent was hilarious and she imitated everything I said. I was so happy when she came home from uni for the summer because I love spending time with her - we're guaranteed a good laugh every time we see each other. I love her accent and she has great hair!
L-R Back Row: Aidan, Drew, Matt, Nick L-R Front Row: Rachel, Ruth, Jess, AmaSome of these people I've already introduced and some of the people I haven't known for very long. I met Matt and Nick quite soon after I started attending the church as both of them are involved with music. They play on Sunday mornings and they also work with the youth band - Matt sings and plays guitar and Nick does sound and helps out the drummers. When I first started coming to the church I remembered them mentally as "the guy who looks like Greg Brady" and "the guy who looks like Prince William". Before I learned their names, I was chatting with a man at church and he said, "You know Matt? The guy in the band?" and I replied, "Oh, you mean the guy who looks like Greg Brady?" and he burst out laughing and said, "I've never thought of that before, but it's so true!" I eventually learned their names but I still occasionally have to remind myself that Matt's name isn't Greg.
I met Jess last Christmas when she was home from university for the holidays and we had a great time washing up the dishes in the kitchen after a church event. She just thought my accent was hilarious and she imitated everything I said. I was so happy when she came home from uni for the summer because I love spending time with her - we're guaranteed a good laugh every time we see each other. I love her accent and she has great hair!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Crown Jewels and Hairspray
"I asked dad if I could buy something in the shop and he just gave me the admission ticket as a souvenier."
- A young teenage boy overheard at the Tower of London.
- A young teenage boy overheard at the Tower of London.
As I've mentioned previously, a little while after I moved to England I started writing a list of quirky dreams and many of them have come true during my time here (e.g. enjoy a proper afternoon tea, see a panda bear, walk on the cobb at Lyme Regis, toss a coin in Trevi Fountain). I update my list whenever a new dream comes to mind, but there are only a few items remaining. One of the items is "See the crown jewels at the Tower of London". I've been trying to figure out if there is anything affordable I want to see during my last few days in England and I decided this is one final dream that can come true so I better make it happen.
Platform 3 of 6.Waiting for my train to London at the Basingstoke train station.
Anyone who has gone on the Tube in London understands the phrase, "Mind the Gap". This warning is painted on the edge of every platform in every station and is announced over speakers on the trains, sometimes the message varies, but the idea is always the same.
"Please mind the gap between the train and the platform edge."
I was shocked by how well this turned out! I wanted to capture the blur of the train passing the sign on the platform and I thought it would be good to have the red of the doors in the shot. The train was moving so quickly that I just pushed the button and hoped for the best. My jaw dropped when I looked at the display screen on my camera and saw the doors so perfectly aligned above the text. People seem to look at my photos and think they're all planned, but many are simply brilliant accidents.
"Way out" = "Exit"These signs make me feel like I'm leaving a bomb shelter. Considering that the Tube stations were used as shelters during the blitz on London during World War II, it's not a big stretch.
The well-known bulls-eye design works for many different signs.
Even the graffiti is written with an accent!
It doesn't take long to figure out that this instruction is important on the Tube escalators. If you stop on the left you'll get glares and nasty comments from impatient commuters.
I joined in a tour with a Yeomen Warden upon arrival at the Tower of London. He delivered plenty of clever banter and facts about the history of the fortress/jail/palace.
A seven hundred year old spiked gate, one of two original gates in the fortress.
I took in a special exhibit of the armour of Henry VIII, including armour used by horses. It's the first time in five hundred years that his entire collection has been exhibited in one place.
A map of the Tower of London fortress to give perspective.
The Traitor's Gate where prisoners were brought in by boat from the Thames. Queen Anne Boleyn, Sir Thomas More, and Queen Catherine Howard are among those brought through this gate. The arch is a medieval feat of engineering - there is no keystone, just overlapping bricks.
A tiny room in a tower.
Part of a sculpture on the top of an outer wall.
The queue to see the jewels is quite long but the line winds back and forth through several different rooms with huge screens displaying video clips of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and close-ups various crowns, rings, and sceptres with photos or paintings of them in use. As I watched the clips, I was surprised to find my eyes welling with tears and a lump forming in my throat. I tried to figure out why I was responding so emotionally and I think it was a combination of a few factors, but mostly just being in complete awe of the wealth and freedom we enjoy. Video clips with thousands of people cheering wildly for their new queen. The grandeur of robes trimmed in fur and crowns laden with jewels. The hundreds of years of rule represented by the jewels I was viewing. Our history is rich and we are unbelievably blessed to be free to pursue dreams and walk down any path we choose.
Visitors walk through a set of massive vault doors to view the jewels, but the odd thing is, I don't remember going through a second set of doors when leaving the display. Moving walkways pass by either side of the glass cases to ensure people keep moving.
I saw the second largest diamond in the world, the First Star of Africa (530.2 carats [106.0 g]). It was created from the largest rough-cut diamond ever found. The diamond is used in the Sceptre with the Cross.
Another crown is displayed in the area, although it's not officially part of the crown jewels. It is the Imperial Crown of India, created for King George V in 1911 to wear on a visit to India. The crown is stored in a glass case set apart from the other jewels so visitors can just stop and stare at it up close as long as they want. The sparkling jewels are quite overwhelming - it's difficult to really grasp how many jewels there are and how much they must be worth!
As a friend reminded me before I went to the Tower of London, all the jewels in the world can't compare to the splendours of heaven!
My Canadian friend, Marijka, is returning home soon and it worked out perfectly for us to meet for supper. She had tickets to see Mama Mia at a theatre about a ten minute walk from the theatre where I was attending a show. It was so great to see her one last time before we both return to Canada. She arrived in England a few weeks before me and worked full-time as a teacher in London; we've both seen God working in our lives and had amazing adventures in Europe. It was an unexpected blessing to be able to share this time with her and be able to stay connected with someone from back home.
Marijka and me on Shaftesbury Avenue in front of Queen's Theatre.Before I met Marijka for supper I decided to try to get tickets to a West End show (four West End shows in just over two months seems reasonable to me!). I considered a few options and decided on Hairspray because I wanted something lighthearted, energetic, and fun. I stopped by the Shaftesbury Theatre and picked up a seventh row ticket for £25 (regularly £64). The bright colours and big hair didn't disappoint!
Cast:
- Nigel Planer as Wilbur Turnblad (I was laughing out loud when he and "Edna" came out of character and started laughing during their big duet scene)
- Chloe Hart as Tracy Turnblad (I want to sing like her when I grow up!)
- Liam Tamne as Link Larkin
- Liz Robertson as Velma Von Tussle
- Zoe Rainey as Amber Von Tussle (looks just like Kirsten Dunst)
- Paul Manuel as Corny Collins
- Sandra Marvin as Motormouth Maybelle
- Adrian Hansel as Seaweed
- Catherine Greeney as Lou-Ann
As this was my last train trip between Basingstoke and London, I decided to recreate the image I shot on my first trip to London almost eleven months ago.
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