MASSIVE UPDATE!

OK, so it has almost been a month since my last blog, but I was leaving for our two week spring break where I did not have computer access, and if I did, I probably would not have wanted to spend time on a computer. Spring break was so great. I recorded as many details as possible in my travel journal. Unfortunately, it would take hours to transfer it all here so I will give highlights....

The first week was spent in London. The hotel we stayed in was glorious and fancy. I loved it and Julia was my roommate which was perfect, we caused all sorts of mischief! While in England, we went to Westminister Abbey, the changing of the guard at Buckingham palace, Oxford/Cambridge boat races, Oxford, Canterbury, Salisbury, Bath, Hyde Park, Trafalgar's Square, the British Museum, Chinatown, watched the show Les Miserables, Covent Gardens, and Camden Market. The week entailed almost-mooning pranks, toilet papering rooms, ripping pants on lions, dancing on rooftops, God debates, Obama debates, Carribbean rum fudge, corsettes and petticoats, "Berlin," "Argentina," and "Mexico" keycards, Mr. Bottle-opener guy, underwear worn over clothes, Tower of London, cider, trains, cameras, mummies, the Rosetta Stone, and finally sleeping in Stansted airport to begin the second leg of the adventure.

Leaving London Stansted airport was lonely. Eric and Cynthia had the flight out to Rome, Italy (that's right, I went to ROME) right before mine. Our flights were early in the morning so to be there in time to check-in required sleeping there because the metro, trains, and buses would not be in operation early enough to make our flight. Arriving in Rome, I met up with the rest of the gang, Eric, Cynthia, Marshall, Grace, and Sarah in the airport. We all reluctantly got in a black Mercedes-Benz van without any markings of shuttle with a well-dressed Italian whom I think was part of the mafia. He dropped us off at the florist in hope of getting us close to our hostel, BellaRoma. We eventually found it, and it wasn't much, but it had a small balcony with a view (the flats across the street). We then did all of Rome!... including the St. Peter's Basillica, the Vatican Museum, Trevi fountain, the Panteon, Colosseum, Ara Pacis, Piazza Navona, Campo di Fiori, Piazza del Popolo, the Sistine Chapel, the Forum, and more stuff that I have circled on the map and not written down in front of me. Rome was great, but really dirty and by now I'm starting to smell. I haven't done laundry in a week, which doesn't sound too terrible, but I only have a backpack with me with a limited supply of clothes. I bathe but rewearing smelly clothes just doesn't help the smell factor. In Rome, we hung out with Adam R., a Baylorite, and Brett M., a St. Andrewiam. I experienced gelato, Canadian Rob naked, Roman fountains, and an Irish pub in Italy... forshadowing maybe?!?!

The last leg of the adventure was to County Clare, Ireland with Marshall. We are on different flights again... (PS. I hate Ryanair... there are stories, PPS. Poor Cynthia and Eric), but only unti London where we have a connection to get to Shannon Airport in Ireland. I don't see Marshall when boarding plane for Ireland and I panic. The plane leaves without Marshall, then I really do panic. I arrive in Ireland alone and take a cab to the hostel I have booked for the night in Sixmilebridge (it really is one word) alone and worried. Then Marshall finally calls and says that he missed the first flight because he was delayed in Rome and had to get the next flight out of London. Marshall finally arrives later that night but after I have made friends with a great Australian couple, Dave and Emma, who are roommates at our hostel in Ireland called the Jamaica Inn. Marshall and I get trapped in Sixmilebridge by the lack of buses so we explore the town (takes 2 hours or less) and then rest and chill. We made lots of friends at the hostel though and all go out to a pub in town later that night... where Ray calls and shows up! What a surprise. So the three of us leave the next morning for Ennis and then to Kilfenora. At Kilfenora we got free pints of Guinness, free entry to The Barn to watch Irish set dancing, and were chased by bulls (almost). The next morning we began to hike 8km to Lisdoosvarna, but Ray almost got hit by a car, so the driver gave us a ride into town. From there were caught a bus to the Cliffs of Moher (so awesome and we almost didn't go). Then we taxied back to Ennis where we stayed at a B&B during our last night in Ireland. There are many stories that go into the Ireland trip, but they are best told orally.
I finally arrived at St. Andrews Saturday night at 10 PM.... phew!

Check out pictures on Facebook. Visuals make stories better.

Preparing for Spring Break!

All this week, I've been nervous, anxious, and excited. I've been preparing and planning out spring break. Our break is two weeks!! The first week has been planned out and payed for already. We are spending the entire first week in London and then the second is up to us. I had Rome planned out early, but could not decide between Germany or Ireland. Well, I finally made up my mind, and I'm going to Ireland! I'm pretty excited about all of it. This entire two weeks will be quite the experience. Although, I'm sure I'm going to be super odorous! There's a lot of time were we'll just be in transit and travelling makes one smell. But all should be well. And I'm only packing a backpack for the entire two weeks. So smelly body with smelly clothes means a real good time ;) Expect some fun adventure stories...

PS. Cole I'm going to try and chunnel to Paris April 4th, but it's an expensive ticket for just a day trip. So, I may just have to come later. I will contact you if I make it to Paris though! :-D

Happy Easter

Happy Easter everyone. So far every Easter has been spent at home with my family, but this year I'm a few times zones and an ocean over. Despite the distance, I can still feel "home" inside of me. I miss my parents more than ever today, but God is with me and that is my comfort.

Some students wanted to meet early this morning on the beach to watch the sunrise. I think I was the only one from Baylor that made it out there, but it was worth it. I headed to the beach around 5ish and stood in awe for about an hour and a half. It was such an experience to be awake so early to watch the sun rise knowing that the Son had already risen. I stood next to a girl, who I didn't even know her name, and overheard her saying, "This makes me feel insignificant and yet very significant." It's true. I am but one imperfect, flawed human being. I am a small bit of creation, only a piece of a greater whole. However, Jesus Christ died for me. His love makes me significant. It was so beautiful being able to celebrate His resurrection this morning. And this is where the English language fails; I feel so limited and unable to convey the true emotions of this day with only words. I mean, Jesus died for our salvation and then conquered death. There is no greater love story.

After the beach, I walked over to an early Easter service held behind the old cathedral ruins. Three Churches of Scotland combined for one large outside service. The woman that preached was excellent. She emphasised that when Mary went to Jesus' tomb, it was still dark and yet the stone had already been rolled away. It was to parallel with the dark world. All the grief and suffering that is so real to us leaves us in the darkness, but Jesus arose from the dark. This is all to remind us that, yes, there will still be grief, suffering, and darkness. Satan is still here, but Jesus has ascended into Heaven and is our light during our darkest hour. So many people lose their faith. I spoke with a girl at lunch just yesterday, and she said, "It'll be weird not doing anything religious on Easter. I don't plan on going to church or anything." I asked why and she replied, "Well, I can't bring myself to believe it anymore. There's too much suffering in my life." Oh how I hope that God can give me the courage to share with her what God's love is really like. It's NOT an exemption from pain. Instead it's knowing that God will never abandon us. He shares our pain until we let go, and then takes it away for Him to bear alone.

...

After service, we took communion within the cathedral, and shuffled a bit further to breakfast. With food in my tummy, I walked down the small section of beach between the castle ruins and cathedral to sit on the rocks by the sea and listened to a group of students sing hymns. They weren't in tune, but I'm sure God doesn't care about tuning. When I finally returned to Uni Hall, I stripped a couple of layers and went to (second) breakfast and now I think I'll nap until lunch... and hopefully shower at some point. Sorry for being gross haha.

Baylor Basketball

Oh how I love my Baylor Basketball men! Henry Dugat doesn't know it yet, but we're going to get married. I was so excited about making it into the Big Dance. I wore my Baylor sweatshirt all day Thursday out of love and support. My Jesus and the Gospels tutor noticed and asked how we're doing and told me that he's predicting a Baylor win! Well Derek and I planned to go to B.U. (haha..Bottoms Up) wine and beer store after class to get some beverages and watch the game from my computer at 7 PM. It was great to watch the game with some delicious Fruit Cider, Tesco chocolate, and friends. It was sad, however, we were defeated. But, let's all look on the bright side, Baylor made it to the Tournament. And at the end of the day, we are still Baylor
University, the oldest in Texas, classiest in the Big XII, prettiest in America, and most awesome in the world ;-)

After the game, there was an Empire run, a lot of laughing, some Firefly watching, farting (adding to funk of A31), cramming into the love nest (my bed), and a slumber party! What a good day... and now today is Good Friday! What a blessing!

Making Travel Plans

Spring break for St. Andrews in coming soon. The first week is already planned out. We'll be in London with the entire Baylor group doing cool things, but the second week is left up to us. So far, I've got a one-way ticket booked to Rome and a hostel in Rome for three days... the rest is unplanned!! Panic! I'm pretty excited about Rome though!! The plan is to do Rome for a few days then make it Southern France in Marseille, and then travel north to Munich, Germany. We shall see how this turns out. It's the worthless American dollar that's killing everything about this trip.

Short version of the weekend

Wow... so basically, I've been skipping lectures left and right to crank out some bulky essays. Right around the end of my sickness, I managed to finish and turn in my Development of Christianity in Africa essay Thursday morning way ahead of time since the actual due date was yesterday!! I was pretty proud, but getting that essay out the way was necessary since Richard was coming to see me... :-)

Richard was due to arrive that afternoon. I was worried at first because I was going to skip my Thursday lectures to go to Edinburgh to retrieve my dear friend alone. The bus and train schedules are beasts to comprehend!! The plan was to just catch the bus to Leuchars train station and cry until someone put me on the right train. However, just moments before I left my room to head to the bus station, I recieve a call from Richard. He had missed his flight from London to Edinburgh and had no way of getting there until the next day. I felt so bad for the guy: stranded in London over night. He was now due to fly into Edinburgh Friday morning. Luckily, that meant that Cynthia could travel with me Friday morning. We left St. Andews early in the morning around the time Jesus Christ wakes up and found Richard around Haymarket station. That Friday was just an easy day around St. Andrews, including time at the West Sands and golf course area.

Saturday was another early early morning. Richard, Cynthia, Marshall, Eric and I all decided to go to Inverness which is far north on the island and local town of Loch Ness the home of the Loch Ness monster. It took all morning to get to Inverness, but sadly once we got there, it was rather difficult to get to Loch Ness. We were so close and yet so far. [I'm sorry, Nessie, that I didn't make it to see you this round. Hopefully, we'll have another opportunity to meet later.] The town of Inverness is nice though and it was a great day. The weather was perfect and warmer than expected since we were in the Highlands.

Sunday, I read in Chapel from the book of Isaiah 50:4-9. It was cool. I haven't read in Church since High School, and I thought it was a neat opportunity to be involved in church service again. Later on that Sunday, Richard and I left for Edinburgh. Around the Royal Mile, the area is really touristy and great. It was a good trip, although, slightly limited since it was a Sunday and most things were closing early. We ate at a great Italian restaurant that was awkwardly empty, but the food was really good. Then left back for St. Andrews.

Monday was the last day of Richard's visit. So, after my History Tutorial we left for Edinburgh again to explore more of what we had missed. I love Edinburgh. It's a clean and neat city. Parts remind me of Washington, D.C. and other parts are fantastically medieval. We soon parted so that he could make his bus back to Haymarket for the airport and I had to catch a train back to Luechars. Sadly, I missed my train and had to wait another thirty minutes for the next train. It would have been a very sad occasion, but another girl missed the train just as I did. We were both denied to board just the train was getting ready to leave the station. But she was really nice. It turns out that she was another St. Andrews student was coming back to visit some friends in St. Andrews. She has been in Spain this past term and until the end of this one was popping in to catch up before leaving for London and Spain again.

I think it great how God takes care of us like that. I was worried about traveling alone and then panicked when I missed my train, but God gave me a companion, some sort of comfort after leaving my best friend and being left at the train station. God is good.

Fast Pace Life

So, I've been absent in my blogging because of intense essay writing. I finished and turned in my Scottish history essay about the Union of 1707 Friday, and just turned in my Jesus and Gospels essay today about Who Killed Jesus:Jews or Romans? Just Wednesday, I got a wonderful surprise. One of my best friends spontaneously bought a ticket to Scotland and will be here Thursday morning!! I have another essay due Monday (St. Patrick's day), so I'm pushing to get it done super early or get an extension. But nothing can dampen my excitement.

This past Saturday was really fun. About half the group took a trip to Stirling castle. The castle is pretty neat and mostly intact compared to all the other castles. We started off eating at this great Indian restaurant and moved to exploring the large castle grounds. They did a live presentation/mini-play of the murder of Black Douglas. He was murdered by the short-tempered, paranoid King James II who flirted with me, invited me to his bedchamber until he was reminded that the Queen was awake, and called me a harlot. It was funny and yet if I weren't black, everyone would have notice that I was blushing hardcore. It was unexpected and therefore, really embarassing. After walking around the castle for a good bit, I was really feeling achy. I almost didn't go to the castle that morning because I wasn't feeling too well, and I guess everything was catching up to me again. Cynthia sat for awhile in the Ladies lounge just killing time and resting. Then we caught up with the Evans' at Argyll's manor down the street. It was a large mansion with old furniture. I'm doubting that it was all original, but at least they were good replica peices. After leaving there, we found the rest of the group in town, shopping around. By this time I was pretty exhausted and was ready to head back to St. Andrews, and apparently so was everyone else.

I thought that we were going to miss our train waiting on one of our group members who decided to stop for a hot milkshake. Luckily, we were able to get the early train that we wanted and got back to St. Andrews at half past 6. From there, it was a cheap meal bought at Tescos and a movie party at DRA. I felt pretty bad at this point and I pretty certain that I had a fever. I may been a bit grumpy, so I apologize for any rudeness. After I ate, I took medicine which helped enormously (Thanks Victoria and Cynthia).

So now, I think I'm just going to hang out around my room mostly and rest and take meds. I HATE being sick and I just want everything to go away and instantly feel better. Hopefully I can get most of work accomplished so I don't have to ask for so many extensions and can turn stuff in early. Wish me luck.

Religion

I'm taking two Divinity (Religion) modules here at St Andrews. I love both of them. Jesus and the Gospels is taught by this HOT, young, Scottish professor. He also has three folk music CDs out so he's not only good looking and educated but a talented musician. Hopefully, I can bring back one of his albums. He sounds good. Julia and I have sampled his songs from a link on the internet...hehe. But the class is great. It's basically like Christian Heritage and Scriptures combined. I just finished reading a book for that class called The Shadow of the Galilean. It's good and I'd recommend it if anyone comes across it in the States.

The other Divinity module is Church, Ritual, and Politics. I do believe that this module is my favorite one, hands down. The course calls for two profs. This first half is being taught by Dr. Aguilar. He has this great Italian sounding accent and makes the best jokes. His section of the module is about Christianity in Latin America and Africa. We are starting to explore the music of both regions and the different ways they worship. Last class, the front half of the classroom (my half) was instructed to walk around the classroom waving our arms in sync. It was strange but practical. We are learning the movements of the African Church and will eventually move to a full dance. The second half will be taught by Dr. Bradley, who I've heard nothing but wonderful things about. His half will cover Celtic Christianity and other European styles of worship. This means that during that half, we will be singing hymns. Nothing could make me happier.

I think the reason that I write about my Divinity modules now is because I feel so aware of the overall religious beliefs among the students. My Divinity modules allow me to constantly think about God and my faith academically. It's an enjoyment that's hard to explain.

Here at St. Andrews, there is an organization called the Christian Union (CU). Since the end of February, they have been sponsoring events that all fall under one big event called Forgiveness Fortnight. I think it's a great idea, but the more I seem to get excited about it, the more I notice just how many students are put off by religion. I feel like we're scoffed at by an overwhelming number of students for our faith. Each residence hall has Link Groups that are small branches from CU. I went to my first Link Group Bible study for Uni Hall and there was only six of us. Three of us were American study abroad students. It was still great to be with the few there. But it just seems that a lot of students here have this chip on their shoulder or resentment about Christianity. I feel like when I wear a shirt that reveals my cross necklace, that a few people assume that I'm unworthy of conversation or too good to hang out with at the Pubs and clubs. They say "hi," look at my necklace, express reluctence with their eyes, and resort to small talk or one word responses. They judge me and think..."Oh she's a Christian so she's probably no fun." It's hard to think of ways to reverse these ideas that some have already labelled me with, but hopefully I can break these barriers. I pray for strength, patience, and understanding.

Making Up for Lost Time

I realize that I am slow to update my blog, but I'm making an effort to do better in the future. I apologize for my procrastinations.

Everything is really starting to feel like home these days. Most nights, us Baylor kids with nothing to do, just hang around each others rooms and watch movies, eat Tesco's discounted snacks, or play card and board games. It's so good to be here with everyone from Baylor and just feel unpressured. This past week was a bit gross because it rained some and the wind here is practically tornadic (I could have made that word up). On rainy days like the few from last week, it's great to just sit against the radiator in my room with a book, which is exactly what I did.

This past week of modules has been the same basically. I go to lectures and tutorials and then do some reading. I'm currently a bit stressed (only a wee bit) because my first Scottish history paper is due on Friday and my Jesus and the Gospels paper is due Monday. The history essay is the one that I have no idea how to write. Hopefully, I'll get lucky tonight and tomorrow. I attempted to do a lot of reading this past weekend and even start on the paper. I assumed this would be possible because the Baylor girls (and Josh) all took a weekend retreat to the Burn house of Edzell. Edzell is small rural town and the Burn house is a large mansion open to people looking for a nice get-away. The living room often had a fire blazing and the couches were perfect for curling up and reading. I think my favorite part of last weekend was tea and biscuit times. It was glorious having the ability to drink as much tea and coffee at any time of the day. I went on a couple of walks around the property, and the land is simply gorgeous with the only drawback of a foul farm animal smell around the grounds. Overall, I should have gotten a lot accomplished, but instead just hung out and ate. It didn't feel like time wasted though because I enjoyed the company and all the food. I was actually full at the Burn. It seems that I'm NEVER full in this country.

*Baylor people: do not take for granted the "residential restuarants." Everything is made with potatoes and hardly any flavor... and There are set eating times so no late night eating :-(*

Sunday night, the Evans' invited us all over for dinner because on weekends, the Residence halls don't serve dinner. DJ Evans made some really good chilli for us. I ate so much! I had one and half bowls of chili, three peices of bread, carrots with ranch dressing (no one has ranch dressing here!), and two of her wonderful wonderful chocolately brownies! It was amazing... this past weekend was weekend for eating.

But anyhoo, I'm obligated to finish the history paper but I'm also shooting to finish the Jesus and the Gospels assignment as well this week. This weekend will be a trip to Stirling castle! I really hope I can go without that guilty feeling of pressing assignments. And I write this blog update as I sit in the library between classes using the computer to not do more research but instead facebook, email, and blog. Oh well, everything will get done.

Uni Hall Ball!!

I apologize for posting so late, but I've been catching up on my reading assignments lately or hanging out. But despite my tardiness, I've got some fun adventures to share :-)

Each Hall has their own Ball each semester. Uni's Hall Ball was last Friday night and it was great. First, the night began with a themed dinner that started early at about 5:30 instead of the usual 6. One could have dressed up for dinner but I just couldn't because napping was far more important than getting ready at the time. I didn't feel too bad about not dressing up though because only a few people dressed fancy for dinner anyway. The meal was delicious! The menu consisted of wild rice, roast pork, red cabbage, and mango/pineapple honey beer sorbet (so GOOD) for dinner followed by vanilla ice cream with a chocolate syrup swirl covered in frozen white chocolate and shortbreak cookies with chocolate drizzled across the top for dessert. It was FANTASTIC!! After dinner was time to get ready for the ball.

May I just reiterate the Scotland is cold and windy, and my ball dress, pretty as it is, was not going to keep me warm. So, I had to put on my worst nightmare: pantyhose. Hoisery is probably one of the most uncomfortable pieces of women's clothing next to high heel shoes, which of course I had to wear as well. I don't think the pantyhose really kept my legs warm, but in my mind, I'd like to think the itchy discomfort was not in vain. Before going out the the ball, I looked like a hobo. I had my black ball gown on which hung low enough to see from beneath my big brown overcoat, multicolored gloves on, a blue/purple knit scarf around my neck, a big brown bag with my high heels protruding from the top, and my plaid multi-colored keds to save my feet for the dance from the walk to and from Younger Hall. It was an amazing get-up but at least I wasn't going to freeze entirely.

The Ball was in Younger Hall, as previously mentioned, which is on North Street, a bit of a distance away. But once we got there, it was apparent that the location was worth the walk. It was a large venue. The lobby area was designated for a full bar, a side table where free champagne was handed out early, and free ice cream from B. Jeanette's (a really good local ice cream shop). There was a separate cloak room to one side and then downstairs, there was a casino set up. The dance floor was pretty spacious. Before the ceilidh band got set up, a few dancers attempted to hold the crowds attention by dancing "Brazilian." Once the dancers exited (whoohoo!) the ceilidh band was ready to roar and they did. I don't know if I explained this before, but a ceilidh is a traditional dance that reminds me of super fast square dancing, involving kicking, stomping, clapping, rapid spinning, twirling, and a bit of river dancing. Basically the best thing ever!! I was able to dance with a few gents who knew what they were doing. And my French friend, Manuel, and I did a ceilidh round together. It was confusing but at the same time glorious and fun. After the ceilidh band left, a new band called Soul Food Cafe performed. They were awesome and played old-school favorites. And finally, the last few hours were DJed hits, including but not limited to Big Girls by Mika, Eye of the Tiger by Survivor, Wannabe by Spice Girls, Summer of '69 by Bryan Adams, Piece of Me by Britany Spears, and the Cotton Eye Joe... hahaha clearly it was still awesome!

I was saving my favorite part for last!! Almost every guy was wearing a kilt!! Usually I've only seen old men in their kilts, but young Scottish college boys in kilts are flippin' gorgeous and handsome. It's not about your trousers, America... in other words... the pants don't make the man, but a kilt will. ;-)

A little sherry goes a long way.

I haven't done a lot of church shopping yet, but I plan to very soon. These last two Sundays, I've just gone to St. Salvator's Chapel which is basically like the University Church service. Eric and I made it to Sunday morning service just in the nick of time and heard a great sermon. It was a guest speaker from a Baptist church across town. He was really good. I decided to take communion Sunday and I rather liked it. Afterwards, there is always sherry in the Hebdomadar's room (the Hebdomadar is what they used to call the disciplinary adminstrator back in the day... like 1500s or something... but it's a fun word to use). While there Cynthia and I talked to church leader named John for a bit, and just as we wrapping up the conversation and leaving, the Head Chaplain invited us to his house for lunch. It felt a bit random but we accepted... who would turn down a free homecooked meal??

The Chaplain's house is on The Scores! The Scores is the street nearest the beach and the golf course. Everything off of The Scores is expensive and fine. The houses are gorgeous, and most of the department offices are on The Scores. His house was so nice. Another girl, Rachel also came along. Rachel is from Holy Cross and knows my cousin Paige (small world!) and the guest Baptist preacher and his wife joined us as well. The head Chaplain's wife prepared a lovely meal. We had vegetable lasagna, peas, lima beans, and chuttney. It was all so good especially the lasagna! Then she brought out the pudding (that's the term for any dessert) which was a black current and apple crumble with ice cream. I had two servings of that! I haven't really been full this whole time since then. Then we all retired to the parlor for tea and coffee. It all felt so proper. We chatted about the different cultures and they explained Scottish and British slang words and we shared some American lingo. It was so funny. We were there for about two and half hours. As we were all leaving, the Chaplain asked Cynthia and I to read one Sunday during service. It's all pretty exciting!

Today, Dr. Evans female, invited just the girls over to her house for afternoon tea and snacks. She made great strawberry/rasberry tea and brownies. The Evans' house is amazing. Just walking through the neighborhood to get to the house makes me want to move here for good. Scotland is so pretty. We spent a good 3 hours at the house just chatting. It was interesting to hear Dr. Evans open up to us. She told us about how her and Dr. Evans male first met, dated, and whole marriage thing. They're an interesting couple those two haha. It was a good time.

This Friday is the Hall Ball. The theme is a mascarade at a Brazilian Carnival! I can't wait! I'm really excited and I hope to find my French dance partner there. I love Uni Hall.

Boob cakes, Togas, and Castles

Wow... So Tuesday and Wednesday were great days. Wednesday was our first Baylor class which will be interesting and practical, plus I like our group. Thursday was of course Valentine's Day. I think it was the best Valentine's Day I've had thus far. Usually Val's Day makes me think of S.A.D. (Singles Awareness Day), but instead this one did not. Us Baylor kids decided to have our own little Valentine's Day party. So all of us agreed to wear red or pink Thursday and meet up at dinner and do something fun together afterwards. That day, waiting for Jesus and the Gospels to start, four girls stood at the steps of School 1 obviously looking for someone. Then this girl appears down the steps, and they sing to her and by the end of the song, her boyfriend has appeared and gives her a big hug and kiss. Usually this would gross be out but it was really cute. I want singing acapella friends. ;-)

The special Valentine's Day dinner was shark! Umm... it was an experience. One that I don't intend to repeat. hahaha. But after dinner, we went to the ever-popular Tescos and got wonderful chocolate, discount baked goods from this morning, and drinks. From there we headed to Julia's apartment to eat, party, and watch a movie. Marshall appeared at the party with a cake... but not just any cake. This cake was a Boob Cake. Yes, complete with bra. hahaha. What a way to say Happy Valentine's. After devouring the Boob cake and sharing a few laughs, we all watched Love Actually! which I absolutely love and is just the right love movie for a love day.

Friday was glorious this time around. I didn't have class because tutorials don't start until this coming week, in which, I will only have a 10 o'clock tutorial on Friday! Friday was good and lazy, but followed but Uni Hall's Toga party. I believe all the halls had parties, but ours was of course the best. Togas, music, and a vodka bar. I really think my hall loves vodka... But anyway it was fun just to hang out with the girls and guys of Uni. And the dancing was so fun. After the toga feast ending here, it carried on to the Union for a Toga Bop or to the Lizard Bar. I was dragged to the Lizard despite severe fatigue, but we couldn't go in because the line was extremely long and it was cold and therefore not worth it. After all of that sleep is all I wanted.

So this morning was Edinburgh trip day!! WHOOOHOOO! We caught taxis to the train station and then took the train to Edinburgh from Leuchars. Edinburgh is by far one of the most amazing cities ever. It's the capital of Scotland and the second largest city behind Glasnow. We visited the Art Gallery, the castle, walked the Royal Mile, and just got to be really touristy. I took a picture with a bagpipe player in a kilt outside of a magnificent church. It basically made my life! Around dinner we divided up to have better chances at seating, and Daisy, Cynthia and I found ourselves at this little place called El Barrio which is supposed to be Mexican/Cuban/Latin. Well I ordered fajitas and got a burritto that was nowhere close to a real burrito! But what can you expect?? I doubt there's a lot of Mexicans in Scotland or the right ingredients. The sour cream turned out to be cottage cheese and the salsa was more like marina sauce... hahaha. Scotland is so amusing.

Boozeday Tuesday

HAHAHA. I love the Scots! Apparently, Tuesdays have been called Boozeday Tuesdays because Tuesday night is the night to hang out, party, and drink the most. Tuesday night started out with a hall meeting with a talk from one of the THREE cops in St Andrews (can you believe that there are only 3 cops here?!?!) and the warden. It was a short meeting about safety and things, and was very much like hall meetings at the beginning of the year at Baylor. Then we were dismissed for our hall parties. I've come to realize that the residence hall that I live in is like one big sorority house and fraternity house combined. A hall, my lovely hall which is mixed and always busy, had an interesting tropical theme. In the middle of the hall the moved tables to serve coke and vodka and cake on. And then put Pringle cans over the motion sensors so the lights wouldn't turn on. They converted the hallway into a real party complete with loud music and balloons. The other floors were less exciting but had more food items to choose from which is always a plus. From the hall party, every goes drunk to the Union to get more drinks, only this time you have to pay, and then moves from the bar side of the Union to the club side of the Union to dance. It's an experience. They played 'crank dat soulja boy'!!!! It was great hearing the people around me sing it in different accents. Then that was closely followed by an interesting remix of Bittersweet Symphony.

Today, we were planning on going to Perth, but early in the morning around 7. That didn't happen. I went to sleep after 2 and 6 o'clock just didn't happen. But no one else went either, so I don't feel too bad. At least I wasn't left out. Instead, when I finally did wake up, I went into to town to buy books, and there saw a Chinese New Year celebration on Market Street with about 3 Asians participating. Then I got the most wonderful jelly-filled, sugar-coated pastry from Tescos for only 12 pence (cents). So I got two. I'm going back everyday for those things; they are that amazing.

Tonight was the required Baylor, Philosophy of Religion class. It went well and I really like our group. We went out for drinks with Dr. and Dr. Evans to a nice pub. Eric, Cynthia, and I left and came back however, because the three of us missed dinner so we just grabbed a burger from this cheap and good place called One O One Connection. The first real week is not even over yet, but it feels like it's been a month already. I guess it's because everything is so overwhelming and different still. But I just love this place. It's great.

Happy Early Valentine's Day!

Modules

First, I would like to apoligize for the lack of pictures. I have tons of gorgeous pictures but I can't put them on the computer yet because I don't have internet in my room and these computers in the lab (my current location) are resricted. But I will have some pictures here soon. ITS called me this morning on my way out the door to tell me that someone should be by in the next... 48 hours... maybe.

So... Today was the first day of modules. My first class is at 10: Church, Rituals, and Politics. I think I'm going to love it. There will be dancing during the first half because we are studying Christianity in Latin America and Africa and then the second half will cover Celtic Christianity and church in the UK, so there will be hymn singing. :-) This makes my heart happy. My second class is called Jesus and the Gospels and the prof. is great. My history class: Scotland, Britian, and the Empire 1603-2000 sounds like it should be great but it's hard to tell because the prof. was very quiet and lacked personality. But I don't want to judge him too hard. This was the first "lecture" and we were there for about 15 minutes out of 60.

After class, Julia, Victoria, and I were all going to meet up at Tescos (which is a ghetto HEB equivalent) to hang out for an hour until the reception at St. Mary's school of divinity. At Tescos I found my new good friend Katryn, who has been showing me the ropes, and we hung out until the others arrived and we all went to B. Genneva's for some very delicious ice cream. When 4 rolled around, the reception began. First of all, this reception is held by the School of Divinity which is equivalent to Baylor's religion department. We were given our choice of red or white wine while we chat with the divinity profs. I talked for quite some time to a couple of grad students named Fiona, a wife and mother probably middle-aged who is Presbyterian, and Kenny, a young crazy Catholic kid that wants to work with addicts. Kenny was absolutely hilarious and the two of these kids together with all the free wine was an amazing combination of laughes. At the end of the reception, we were all invited to go out to a pub with some of the divinity TAs?!?! I love Scotland. Baylor would never allow this. Could you imagine, the Baylor religion department serving free white and red wine at a reception and then taking students out the pub afterwards?!?!

Well, then there's a thing called a 'Bop' tomorrow night which will be free at the Union. It's supposed to be like a big dance party. The Union of course will be selling cheap drinks and food, and apparently everyone goes and it's a lot of fun. Then our residence hall is hosting a toga party this Saturday and a Ball the following Saturday. And these events are catered with free drinks... this is my residence hall?!?! Can we say CULTURE SHOCK?!?! I wonder how these ideas would go if presented to the social committee at Brooks?

Culture Shock!

Clearly, life in Scotland is a bit different then America. But St. Andrews is nothing like Baylor.

First shock: As new students we were invited to a reception to meet professors from all the different schools (departments). The reception was held in the Student Union building. I hadn't been it in yet, but oh my goodness!! The bottom floor is called The Bop which consists of a Bar with apparently the cheapest drinks in town and a dance floor. Baylor's SUB definitely doesn't have a bar in it. Then, the reception, which was on the top floor that reminded me of a smaller 5th floor Cashion, has a stage, sound system, and lighting for future concerts, I suppose, turns out to be a wine reception. One of the advisors then asks us what we are studying, asks if we prefer white or red wine. She wasn't going to tell us who to talk to until she had poured us a glass of wine. Drinks all around in Scotland!

Second shock: My residence hall is co-ed. In the past the hall was divided by different floors but because they are refurbishing the hall, they have rearranged us all to fit I guess. A floor is mixed, B floor is boys, C floor is girls, and D floor is mixed. I'm on A floor so I was expecting to see boys of course. A floor is shaped like a 'T' and I hadn't seen many people. I had only seen a guy on the other side of the 'T' from my side so I figured that the guys were on that side. Apparently I was wrong. Thursday morning, I woke up to take a shower and was locking my door with only a towel wrapped around me, and there I see a guy two doors down from me. Unfortunately, he was fully clothed and passed by me with that headnod thing... Then after hanging out all day, I returned to the dorm to freshen up in my room before dinner and my hall was filled with guys! Apparently the room directly across from me is a guy. And about 6 six blokes were gathered around a round table (that they probably swiped from the common room) and each with a large beer and were playing poker in the middle of the hallway!... MY HALLWAY! At least during this encounter, I wasn't naked...

Third shock: There are very few Scottish boys that go here. I've mostly only meet other new Americans or English fellows. Sad day :-( But never fear, I'm sure my Scotsman is here!

Fourth shock: There is no class on Wednesday. This is because football (soccer) is such a big deal. I hope to take a trip to Edinburgh to watch Scotland play England! It promises to be a good match. Apparently the French whipped the Scots last match... poor Scotland. :-(

Storytime

The last post covered my adventure to Le Rendezvous with Cynthia for lunch. That seems forever ago. So much has happened and I'll do my best to recount all that's important or funny or cool to tell. After lunch, Cynthia and I walked around and did a bit of shopping until dinnertime. The dorms each have there own private dining halls and you're only really supposed to go yours. I guess this is a good thing because each hall becomes such a tight family. Dinner is promptly at 6 and ends at about 6:45 because it's still holiday hours. It's unlike Baylor. There's a small window of time when you can enter the dining hall and once it's over you leave and can't come back until the next meal. If you miss it, then it's too bad and you have to go eat somewhere else and pay. After dinner, most of us met back up at 8 for drinks at Vick's. Four of us split a bottle of wine (Chardonnay) ironically from the US (California to be specific). Then planned for Thursday activities since it was free day and there was nothing planned.

A few of us, Cynthia, Eric, Joe and I thought it might be fun to take a trip to Edinburgh. That Thursday morning, I didn't really want to go because the Evans' hadn't given us our Britrail passes which means we would have payed almost £20 ($40) roundtrip and that's without considering food. So that was a NO! So instead we meet up at the bus station and from there decided to walk to the castle and check out the mines and remaining dungeons. It was so neat. The mines were narrow, low, and hard to breath in. But it was all really fun. Then we had lunch and went back out with more people to check out what's left of the old cathedral! I paid £4 to get into the St. Regelus' tower and the view from there is absolutely breathtaking (or maybe that was the hundred+step winding spiral staircase.) And then we went along to the West Sands. The beach is gorgeous, but there is no way I'm getting in that water. They say it's warm, but by warm I think they just mean not frozen. Afterwards, it was dinner again and then Thursday nights are £1 at The Raisin. I tried the apple cider beer that was surprisingly good, and met up with a girl I'd met earlier from my hall. Her name is Kathyrn and she's a first year from Boston, but she's going here for all four years and getting her degree. She introduced us Cynthia and I to some really crazy and fun people.

Funny story: We're standing outside of The Raisin getting ready to head back to the dorms and we meet these two guys. One named Fox from Tenn. and the other I believe was Daz, a Scotsman. I think Daz was tipsy and dares us to disprove that he's not a real blackbelt. And then out of no where he just punches Fox in the stomach. Poor Fox looks likes he's in real pain or the punch to gut was going to make him puke. But then Daz says, "Don't worry, if I punch you, you're fine, but if I kick you, you're fucked," in that authentic Scottish accent. And there was much laughing and forced hugs that followed.

First couple of days...

We landed at London from DFW. It was neat, but the guy at Customs gave me such a hard time. I thought they were going to send me back to Texas. Eventually he let me through and I was back with the group. The flight to Edinburgh wasn't too bad. It was definitely much shorter than the 9 hour flight to London. From the airport in Edinburgh, we took a Shuttle bus to St. Andrews. It was quite rainy and cold but the countryside is gorgeous. Everything is so green which is uncommon in Texas during these months. Once we were checked into our residence halls, we got a tour from the Sub-Warden of the Hall. He was really nice and so is the Warden. The Warden is a bit like the Residence Hall Director and the Sub-Warden are students so they're like CLs. My room is tiny but it's a single so it's perfect for just me. There's the shower room down the hall which is awkward but there's a couple of toilets and a shower inside. I discovered last night the hot water is only on from 7:30 to 10:30. And yes, I discovered this the hard way. So the first day was a bit weird. Today, however, is much better. The sun is out and is so lovely. The town is old; everywhere I look there are castles. Last night we went to a small pub called The Raisin. I didn't have enough pounds on me to drink, but I got a juicey drink for about 80 pence. Which is like 80 cents here but in American money it would be $1.60. Cynthia and I ate at the cutest little French place called Le Rendezvous. We only each had about 4 pounds and the meal was £3.75 so it all worked out nicely. Taxes is already included in all the prices thankfully. America should do this. Well, it's only just after lunchtime, so I'm off to do more things!

Whoa

We've just arrived and I haven't got much time until dinner, but just know that there will be more to come soon. Scotland is gorgeous!

Time is a killer...

It's so close and yet feels so far. So, I've been rolling change to have some more money and it turns out that I've rolled over a hundred bucks in pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters! I've kinda started packing. Nothing is actually in the suitcase, but it's spread out on the floor waiting to be put inside. I'm nervous about making friends. I really like people and usually making friends is never a problem, but maybe that's just because I'm in the U.S. I just want to be apart of Scotland instantly. I don't know what to expect when it comes to my dorm room, and the university's website is horrible. It is the most complicated site I've ever navigated and least informative.

I have this huge urge for some enchiladas right now. Hopefully I get some before I leave the states because I'm sure I won't be having any in Scotland.

Preparing to Pack

It's time to pack. Well, it's been time to pack, but even just the idea of packing makes me nervous. For the first time since I got accepted to the program, it actually feels like I'm really going. A good portion of my life must be packed in two large suitcases and a carry-on bag to get me through a semester abroad. Warm clothes take up a ton of space. And then I'll need toiletries and towels and storage stuff and hangers and coats and shoes... Not to sound like the typical girl, but shoes really do take up a ton of space. I don't plan on bringing an excessive amount or anything but.... there's just so much stuff that must go with me to Scotland for survival. And then my loving parents must ship the remaining crap. Speaking of parents, I love them! They are so great. I'm going to miss their shenanigans. My brother has been home for this past week and we are both flying out on the same day, Feb. 4th. I thought we might have been on the same flight, but he's landing in Germany first. It's been nice visit. My brother and I have never been really close, but the more we hang out, the more I realize how similar we both are. He's going back to Iraq on the 4th because he works on a base there. He really enjoys his job. And since he's here, his wife and baby are here too! My nephew is the most handsome 1 and half year old ever born. I wish I could pack him up with me... but there won't be enough room. Sorry baby.

Away from Waco

'That Good Ol' Baylor Line' is probably the greatest song ever. Each line has a meaning, and this semester will be about how I plan to "fling [my] green and gold afar." Green and gold is going to Scotland. I have spent the weekend at Baylor just saying goodbye. I'm so thankful that I got to see so many of my friends, and the ones that I still missed are not forgotten. Baylor is my home and I will return soon. I don't deserve to have such wonderful blessings, and yet God keeps giving me more and more. I have 12 days until departure day. So, Scotland has 12 days to prepare itself.