The beginning...

     Well, I made it! I am sitting comfortably in my cousin's bed in a small town in England called Nuneaton.  My trip here was relatively uneventful.  In fact, my 7 hour layover in Calgary, Canada was a little more uneventful than I'd have liked.  I thought I had done well with packing (one bag for three months, four pounds under the weight limit!) but as soon as I had to carry it up to the fourth floor of the hostel, I changed my mind.  I now want to leave my entire suitcase in England, even if it means wearing the same clothes everyday!!  

     We had a relatively busy weekend being made fun of by the Erin's boyfriend and all of his friends for being American.  The cultures are very similar but at the same time, rather different.  I think it is fun to pay attention to all the differences.  I've already eaten fish and chips, had plenty of tea and later this week (maybe tomorrow?) we will go to a pub quiz. We attended a rather pentecostal church this weekend... which was not really my cup of tea.  We went to Starbucks and it was interesting.  My latte tasted different, (I think it's the milk?) their coffee beans come in smaller packages and they have a drink with black currant in it.  There are a lot of American things here.  

     I am having a good time so far, it is nice to relax.  I slept in this morning (or "had  lie in") until 10 o'clock then just sat around with Erin drinking coffee from a french press.  Later we will go out to eat (or "have a meal") at a Mexican restaurant.  Apparently it is the only one in Britain.  (or close enough)  I am reveling in my freedom from responsibility (homework and work) while it lasts.  Soon the homework part will start again, but I'll try not to take it too seriously.  

     The weather is cool and rainy at times, but I don't mind.  It's a nice change from California.  

Okay, I will try to keep you all posted, and as soon as I take some pictures I'll share them with you.  

Hope all is well!!

Love

Kari