London From All Angles

My program has officially started, and I must say, I love everything about it! There are only 5 girls, including myself, going to Leeds, and each of them are wonderful. Our program coordinator, Rachel, is fantastic, and I can't wait to spend more time with all of them, especially in Leeds!

Literally on top of the world

Currently, we are staying in London with the other API England students, getting oriented both in program details, as well as in all things English. For the others, they are adjusting to life in London, but for us, this is simply a lovely holiday weekend in the city before school begins on Monday in Leeds. As much as I adore London, I am so excited to go to Leeds, which, based on our orientation earlier this morning, is such an interesting and vibrant city.

Gig 'em from a bird's eye view

We've done so much these past two days: Yesterday after arrival, we dropped our things off at the flat and took a walking tour of the neighborhood and then went on to the British Museum. After zipping through the highlights of the BM, our Leeds group traveled to the London Eye, which was well worth the long wait time. I'm not afraid of heights generally, but even I was a bit uneasy when we were on top of the gigantic ferris wheel. But the sights were incredible, and I'm very pleased we got to do it.

New friends at the Tower Bridge!

We went to bed early that night because we were so exhausted, so it wasn't too bad waking up bright-and-early to go to our API orientation. Once there, we learned all about school, safety and funny things that British people do that Americans don't understand (and visa versa) -- let me tell you, there are quite a few! I'm very grateful to have Rachel because she is someone who won't laugh at us when we have silly American questions!

After orientation, we took a very uncomfortable ride on the Tube to the Tower of London, which was immensely crowded. Luckily, I was able to see the Crown Jewels, which, of course, I oohed and ahed over. Tonight should be lots of fun, too, and tomorrow we travel to Leeds -- check back soon!

Thanks and gig 'em,

Rachel

Below My Feet

Well, I'm back. Another 8+ hour plane ride later, I find myself back at Heathrow. It's 9:00 AM here, which means I'll be sitting at this lone coffee stand outside arrivals for another 3 hours until my group meets up at noon. Seems like an opportune time to write, don't you agree?

Before I continue, I'd like to voice my praise for British Airways, the airline I've been using the past couple of weeks. The food and entertainment services have been excellent, and when we were in a pickle last week trying to get home, they were extremely helpful and understanding. Every attendant has been nothing but friendly and considerate, even humorous. (One male attendant said to his female counterpart, “If we were married, would you listen to me even less?” as he was trying to get her attention, causing everyone in the immediate area to chuckle.) This is a travel blog, and I feel the need to highly-recommend the airline I've been so pleased with the past 3 times I've flown.

As I sit here waiting, I can't help but feel a nauseating mix of excitement and anxiety. I think I adapt quite easily, but this is pretty darn scary. Not only am I in a foreign country, but I don't know a single person here. Now, this is England, so thank goodness I don't have to worry about a language barrier. And it is just four weeks (I applaud those who go abroad for a semester or more). Aside from the fact that I didn't go with a Texas A&M group, I've got it fairly easy compared to others who study abroad. But still, this is new to me, and I can't help but be frightened.

Despite my fears, I am beyond excited for what's to come. This has been a very trying week (see previous post), so I know how lucky I am to be here. I'm so grateful for this experience; I owe a wealth of gratitude to my parents and grandparents for not only making this study happen but also for giving me the desire to go. I come from a long line of passionate travelers, and I'm so blessed to constantly be inspired to step outside my comfort zone and see the world. I will miss my family terribly, yet I know how happy they are for me to get to do something as amazing as this.

Bring on the adventures to come and the stories I'll have to tell.

Rachel

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." -Joshua 1:9

PS- Shout-out to my best friend, Julie, for making her annual Summer Mix-CD for myself and our two other best friends, Haylie and Ashley – you got me hooked on the Mumford and Sons song that is the title of this blog. If you're not a fan of this band, shame on you. Listen to the lyrics, and you'll know why it's been the anthem of my summer.

Update

Some of you may be wondering why I haven't been posting the past few days. The reason is that our trip ended unexpectedly due to a family emergency back home. We got a phone call on Friday night telling us that my grandmother had suffered a stroke and was in critical condition. We immediately packed our bags and got on the first available flight back to Texas.

My grandmother made it through surgery, but she is still in a very fragile state. We are so grateful that she is doing as well as she is, and we are beyond blessed to have each other. My parents, sisters, aunt, uncle, cousins and I have been the image of unity and support: we are all committed to my grandmother's recovery and giving her as much love possible.

Concerning my upcoming study abroad program in Leeds, I will be returning to England on Friday to participate in it. Though it will be very difficult to leave my family at such a hard time, everyone is in agreement that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and that my grandmother would be furious if she found out I didn't  go. I will also start posting again once my program starts.

So please keep my grandmother and our family in your thoughts and prayers: God is with us and are faithful knowing He will get us through this difficult time.