Study Abroad: Day Four

Today started out with me waking up and thinking, “Wow, we only have a week left until we head back home, and I feel like I have seen so much and garnered so much more knowledge.” 

I then thought, "My goodness, I would love to sleep some more! Oh bed, how much I love you."  (Haha!)

We traveled to the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) today and listened to some fascinating presentations from various speakers on topics like cardiovascular disease, cancer (of course), health promotion and advocacy, fundraising, the ICS help line (reminded me very much of where I use to work at via Patient Services at Biogen Idec), and financial aid.  An example of the difference in culture arose when the presenter began to talk about fundraising and donations.  He explained that while in the United States, it is looked highly upon for corporations, celebrities, etc. to provide great amounts of donations to organizations like the American Cancer Society, it is frowned upon in Ireland.  If say, Bono were to do that in Ireland, the Irish would believe he was trying to be pompous or “above his station.”  Also, charitable donations in Ireland are not tax deductible. 

We also went to Kilmainham Gaol on Wednesday, which was awesome. This was an Irish prison dating back from 1796 to 1924, and is now a museum. Prisoners as young as five years old were housed in this jail, but most notably, this prison housed prisoners of very significant Irish leaders during several rebellion. This jail is very important as many of these Irish leaders were men directly tied to Irish nationalism.

Irish Cancer Society visit.

Kilmainham Gaol.

The inside of a prison cell at Kilmainham.

More Kilmainham.

May 30, 2012 was World MS Day, and I made sure to give a small donation on Grafton Street, hence, the sticker.

Wednesday night we went out to Temple Bar area, and listened to some great American music (ha-you hear it everywhere, you all) at a place called “Farringtons” that Brian and I went to the last night Brian was in Dublin.  Here are some pictures/videos of some of the greatness:

Whitney and me at Farringtons.

Thought you might like this one Brian!

Aww. This song always makes me think of my daddy and an old show on TV called "Tour of Duty."

Later that night, I met an actor (Peter Ferdinando) that is in the upcoming movie with Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, and Charlize Theron-- “Snow White and the Huntsman.”  He taught me method acting for almost 2 hours.  It was incredible!

Peter Ferdinando!

Study Abroad: Day Three

After a wonderful dinner with fellow classmates and professors at our hotel last night, as well as presentations by Trinity College students, we took a jaunt back to Trinity College, to see how many students spend their evenings. 

Beyond studying, and athletics, Trinity College has quite a robust social scene right on campus. 

I was able to spend some time with my roommate, getting to know each other better, and discuss what we have learned thus far.  We didn’t stay out too late as we were exhausted, and we ended up taking quite interesting walk back to out hotel.  This is so we could get some good rest for today’s activities.

My "safety whistle" that Brian bought me if needed...like on long walks at night with alleys

(Inside joke with Whitney).

Today started off with me thinking about world views, and how my world view has already changed with this trip, and made me very thankful for the life I share with my family and friends. Nonetheless, we went to the Trinity Center for Global Health today and listened to presentations by Health Service Executives on the rise of obesity in Ireland, and their strategic plans to counteract and reduce this growing trend.  It was very fascinating to hear about how they are changing their food pyramid (unveiling by the Minister of Health on June 12, 2012) so that the very top of their pyramid has a section that basically says “do not eat this.”  Part of that pyramid section included things like soda and fast food.  I was sort of surprised to see so many fast food options in Dublin, like McDonalds and Burger King.  When we were in London, we also saw KFC a lot.

No Taco Bells you all, and definitely no Bojangles.

The presenter, Dr. Nazih Eldin discussed that while we many not see many “fat” people over in Ireland as compared to the United States, the number of children, adolescents, and adults who are overweight (the category before obesity)has significantly risen.  It made me think about how Americans view overweight and obesity.  Americans may have become accustomed to seeing obesity so much, that when an American sees another individual who is overweight, they may think that individual is not overweight and at a healthy weight range.  Basically, people in Ireland may be more perceptive in seeing people who are overweight, and of course obese, whereas Americans may not be as perceptive in seeing people who are just overweight.   In addition, the terms “overweight” and “obese” are sometimes interchangeable in America.  For instance, if an American sees an individual who is categorized as “morbidly obese,” the American might just say the individual is just “overweight.”

The presentation really enabled us to think outside the box, and view different perceptions within another country.

Our classroom for presentations.

Master of Science in Global Health at Trinity College.

After lunch, we listened to presentations with a focus on the Master of Science Program in Global Health, and the Center for Global Health (in Dublin, Ireland), which was created in 2004.  The associate director of the program provided us great insight into the concepts of delivery of care through systems.  Doctoral students and researchers discussed their studies and programs.  For example, a doctoral student from Canada is studying the utilization of mobile technology in Sierra Leone for volunteer community workers.  These community workers are not paid, but are trained to complete certain tasks, such as visiting pregnant women at least 10 times to share educational messages and awareness that may help reduce infant mortality rates.  The mobile technology use enables program planners to ensure that the community workers are provided the appropriate information to distribute, as well as an accountability tool in the event a community worker misses a scheduled visit.

Such intriguing stories you all.

This evening, Whitney and I toured the area need the Spire in Dublin and The Temple Bar area to scope out where we want to go the next two nights before we head to Cork, then Killarney, and Bunratty.

Heineken near the "Spire" or "Spike" (above) and me and Whitney on the river front (below).

Temple Bar area, scoping out places to go tomorrow:)

Tomorrow we visit the Irish Heart Foundation and Irish Cancer Society.  I will type briefly on them and then discuss the recent referendum on May 31, 2012 in regards to austerity. We are *hoping* to go to the Jameson Distillery tomorrow and then maybe to the oldest pub/bar in Dublin--Brazen Head.

More to come tomorrow!

Cheers!

Kara

Study Abroad: Day Two

Today began with some wonderful coffee at the restaurant (breakfast buffet) within our hotel.  I believe it was french pressed, and it was just so warm and good!


We headed to the Irish Red Cross today and learned some great nuggets of information.  For example, since the 1980's, they no longer collect blood due to contamination involving Hepatitis C and HIV.  In America, when many people think of the Red Cross, they think of either a) blood collection or b) disaster response.

Original Ceiling Decor at Irish Red Cross (made of plaster and not plastic).

The Irish Red Cross is trained to provide hand therapy and neck/shoulder therapy as a way to communicate with individuals in nursing homes and others in need of care.  They provided Whitney and me complimentary demonstrations!

Campus of Trinity College

I asked a question today during the presentation in regards to response times for the Irish Red Cross for natural disasters (weather-related, terrorist-related, etc.).  For  a recent snow storm, they verified about 2-3 hours.  The presenters verified that they have not had a terrorist-related attack in about 30 years, so I thought it was interesting to think of how they could learn from attacks in the U.S. and England within the past 11 years, and have protocols set in place if the event should ever occur on their soil.  Here is a good link to some of the issues after 9/11 with the American Red Cross: http://www.contributemedia.com/trends_details.php?id=107.

We also visited the beautiful campus of Trinity College, just sprawling with historic highlights and beautiful scenery.  We explored the Book of Kells, which is described as a Latin book created circa 800 by Celtic Monks.  The text of the four Gospels from the Bible is contained in the Book of Kells, which consists of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.           

The Book of Kells was produced in Insular style, which means it is supplemented by decoration, and is a combination of Migration Period Art and Early Medieval Western Art.  The book is said to have been completed by monks, as well as holy relics, that were driven by Viking raids to Ireland and Scotland.  The book stayed in the Abbey of Kells in Kells, County Meath from 1007 to around 1654.  Two of the volumes are usually on display at Trinity College, with another volume (Gospel of Mark) being sent in 2000 to Canberra, Australia. 

In addition, we walked through the "Long Room" within the Old Library, which contains about 200,000 very old books.  I believe we saw one circa 1000.  It was breathtaking.

Unfortunately, we could not take pictures in there, so I found these online:

Book of Kells

The Long Room within the Old Library

Slainte!

Kara

Study Abroad: Day One

Today began with a fire alarm. 

Brian and I hopped out of bed this morning as it harshly sounded, but it didn’t last too long, thank goodness.  We both got ready and Brian trekked out and surprised me with the coffees we searched so fervently for yesterday. 

"He’s a sweetie, that one.”

Proudly displaying my white chocolate "Insomnia."

We checked out of our hotel and walked with our bags right outside the hotel so that I could catch a taxi and Brian see me off.  Brian knows how I am with “good-byes,” and it was hard to say bye, even if for a little while.

The taxi driver missed the hotel, but put it in high gear to reverse to make sure he let me out in front the hotel so that I didn’t have to walk too far with my 45 pound luggage alpng with my 10 pound bookbag.  He was very kind about it all.

The rooms here at O’Callaghan Alexander were not ready yet, and my roommate Whitney (she is so sweet!) had just walked out, so I decided it would be fun to explore the town a little.  Brian had taught me so much while I was here on how to get around (again, I am directionally clueless at times), so I felt confident.  So I left aforementioned bags at the front desk and headed out. 

I was told that on Sundays, it is not much of a shopping day, but people just really want to relax and walk about. 

Well, I don't see many Sundays back home like this. 

I headed down to Grafton Street, the place you go for shopping, and there were so many people out and the entertainment was abound!  I headed first to the Starbucks Brian and I visited countless times the past five days, called mom (very early ma, sorry!), and checked my email and Facebook to make sure Brian was getting on his 3 and ½ hour train ride to Killarney.  I then headed to several shops down Grafton Street to just bask in all the great fashions.

Beyond purchasing my first “Ireland” t-shirt, I bought a little surprise for Brian when I return to NC, and had yet another coffee from “Insomnia.”  Grafton Street had so much entertainment on the streets that I couldn’t help but to take some of these pictures and video below!

Making bubbles out on the street!

Crazy viking-looking thing.

Just read the sign. Or click on the picture to see the sign clearer.

Classic entertainment on the street.

I also went to this nearby park and listened to a band play some soul music for a little while for free.  There were so many people watching  the band, purchasing ice cream, and dancing to the music.  I headed back to the hotel and met up with Whitney and we talked with our two professors for a little while before retiring for the evening.  I know everyone who flew in today must be so tired!

It took me three full days to get over jet lag.  For realsies.

I was able to Skype with Brian this evening (thank goodness) and he let me know already how beautiful Killarney is, and that I will be truly pleased.  We will head to Killarney on Saturday, June 2, 2012. Tomorrow we head to Trinity College and we will explore the Book of Kells and then have dinner back at our hotel.  More on all that tomorrow!

Cheers,

Kara

Irish Saying: "An té a bhíónn siúlach, bíonn scéalach." He who travels has much to say.

When in Dublin...

Sorry if I have not posted in the last couple of days you all!  We have had an absolutely wonderful time here in Dublin, and I didn’t want to ruin this great experience for any of my fellow classmates who are not here yet.  I am super sad to depart from Brian tomorrow, but like he told me, 

“You deserve this time Kara, and it is something you will never forget.  Me and the Scootman will just see you when you get home.”

So, here are some of my most favorite things here that we have done, segmented by day.  I will try not to go too much into it all, as to again, not give away too much for my classmates.

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

This began our trek through Dublin, after experiencing London.  After checking into the North Star Hotel and being upgraded room-wise complimentary (YAY!), we walked to the restauarant/pub downstairs and met the three kissing Irishmen.  Later, we had dinner at a pub called “O’Shea’s,” where Brian tried fish and chips, and we listened to some pretty good musicians.  We enjoyed clapping along with everyone, and watching the older couple in front of us have a full on make out session for about 30-minutes. 

It just serves to show that you can still be in love and show it when you get older.

Our first pub in Dublin

Thursday, May 24, 2012

We woke up early this morning and jaunted out to explore all of Dublin.  Literally.  We walked over ten miles at least this day, and my poor legs actually chafed from all the walking.  We saw so many different artifacts, and people.  Musicians played instruments in the streets like the saxophone , guitar, and even a harp.  Some musicians also would sing songs while playing an instrument out in the street.  This day we walked near Trinity College, Christ Church Cathedral, St. Patrick’s Park (where a fella decided to urinate on a structure).  

The park at St. Patrick's

We also took in Starbucks (heehee), and went near the Temple Bar area.  Temple Bar is a mecca for pubs and nightlife, and such a melting pot of people. 

It is a glorious area, with people milling about. 

We ate at the Temple Bar that day, where they also had a pretty sweet duo of fellas that played the guitar and banjo.  There is a lot of history about this pub, and I have a feeling that I might go here again, so I will leave more information on it for a later post.

That evening (after our walking marathon), I showered, and caught a glimpse of my legs.  On several areas, there were these horrible red patches all over them.  They are much better now though, thank goodness. 

We walked so much my legs chafed! For realsies. Gross.

Friday, May 25, 2012

Enjoying the fantastic weather so far in Dublin, we headed out today again and bought the hop-on, hop-off pass for the Dublin bus tour.  We went shopping first at a place called “Penny’s,” and I found a dress and blouse that are gorgeous!  Plus, they have such good prices, I couldn’t pass it up.  We also went down to Grafton Street, which has so many shopping options.  From Hermes and Chanel to Accessorize and H&M, there is a little something for everyone.  Next, we hopped on the tour bus and looked at many of iconic and historic locations throughout Dublin, and went to Guinness Storehouse. 

Oh…my…goodness. 

At Guinness Storehouse

I will have to talk more about this venture later as me and my classmates will be doing this tour as well.  However, here is a snippet of our experience at the very top of the storehouse below.  The music made us feel at home (Van Morrison's "Brown Eyed Girl").

I know, my video recording skills will make the viewer dizzy.

That evening, we travelled to a lovely town called Howth, which is situated right near the ocean.  The views here are breathtaking.  I will talk more about his place too in a future blogJ  It was warm that day, and many people were out eating ice cream and enjoying fish and chips.  Families were out enjoying the weather and children played in an area with play sets. We had an hour wait to eat at a restaurant on the pier (some of the other restaurants were fully booked the rest of the night), so we grabbed some drinks at “The Bloody Stream” and then finally at a delightful meal at “The Oar.”  I had a roasted pepper and aubergine (eggplant) soup that was to die for! 

Brian in Howth

On our way back on the tram, I had a great conversation about the healthcare system in Ireland versus the U.S.  The man I spoke to has a daughter studying abroad at Boston University, and he was asking my expertise about the U.S. health system.  It was a great conversation.

We got back near 10:40p and I am telling you, I could still see the sunlight.

We came back and visited a few pubs here in Dublin.  The first place was like an old boys club…literally…I was the only girl in there.  However, they were very kind, and even taught me some gaelic.  I garnered lots of kisses and learned how to shake hands. Back at our hotel, we met two people from Sweden, and they were awesome.  We were up late talking with them, and we really just gained a better understanding of each other’s country and way of life.

Saturday, May 26, 2012

We woke up and took the bus tour again and saw Kilmainham Goals (an old Irish prison), but we were unable to tour itL  Hopefully, I will be able to in the next few days since my study abroad program has us here in Dublin for five more days.  We also saw (didn’t go in) the Old Jameson  Distillery, O’Connell Street, the Spire,  Dublin Castle, National Museum of Ireland, Irish Musuem of Modern Art, Heuston Rail Station, and the Dublin Zoo.  Near the Dublin Zoo, I asked Brian if he wanted to rent bikes and travel though Phoenix Park.

This was one of the best experiences of the trip!

We biked for an hour and it was so totally worth it.  Such beautiful scenery, and the weather was incredible—the best of the entire trip!   Brian and I even had the opportunity to watch a game of cricket!

Brian biking

We then walked back to O’Connell Street after getting back on the tour bus and during this little journey we were looking at the nice buildings towering above us when all of a sudden something falls down in front of me and explodes.  My first thought was that pigeon from the first day in London came to wreak havoc on me again.  But oh no, that is not what exploded.

What was it?

Water balloons. Being thrown AT me. Soaking me.

Some teenagers hanging out the window of a building had them quite the laugh, and you know, I decided to just laugh too.  It was a warm day and I didn’t mind…too muchJ  We then went looking for a place called “Insomnia,” which we kept saying the entire trip that we would go to, since the coffees there looked ah-mazing.  Well, after searching for one for about 45-minutes, we came to our destination.

Closed destination.

Haha, oh well!  So we finally headed back to the Temple Bar area for dinner.  The actual Temple Bar was far too crowded (it was a Saturday evening, though).  We ended up at this really nice restaurant called Farringtons.  It was upstairs overlooking the Temple Bar area, and enabled us to do lots of people watching.  The windows were all open, so a nice breeze came through and it was just so relaxing after a day filled with walking and biking.  We tried the fried brie wedges which I-have-to-learn-to-make once I arrive back to NC.  It came with a cherry preserve topping and small salad that we both shared.  Brian had “bangers and mash” which was interesting looking, and I had tomato basil soup.  Ahhh…wonderful evening.

Heading back to our hotel, we decided that we needed to retire early, but not before finding a chocolate a crepe shop so we could get some Rocky Road fudge.

Sweet heavens.

We retired early this evening to catch up on our business (yes, we still have to work some everyday to ensure orders process and ship and that customers have a way to still contact us via email).  It also gave us a chance to spend some time together before we depart tomorrow.

So, more to come tomorrow as I meet my classmates and Professors.   Keep checking back in, and I will make sure to update the blog every two days, if not every day!

Cheers!

Kara

My Shamrockin’ Fact:  Trinity College is located here in Dublin, and was founded by Elizabeth I in 1592 and is the location of the Book of Kells.  I will be visiting this site on Monday/Tuesday and will have lots to write about then.

Thoughts on London, and Loving Dublin Already!

Hello all!

Here is a breakdown of my perception of London the past few days.  Enjoy and thanks for reading!

People

We met some really nice people, especially at our hotel while in London.  We also met some very, err…reserved people.  Some pretentiousness, but I am sure that is what you may experience everywhere, including the U.S.

One lady we met on the Overground (tube system) was named Mikaela, and she talked to us the most of everyone.  She let us know some great places to go while we stayed in Watford (quaint little area, about 30 minutes from Central London if taking the London Midland).  Saved a lot of money by staying in this area, just had a bit of a ride when going to London.  She was just so friendly, and made us feel comfortable, especially since it was like pulling teeth trying to get some people to talk.  The funniest thing Mikaela said though was when we started talking about Daniel Radcliffe and Robert Pattinson.  She goes, “Oh yes, Daniel Radcliffe is from here. That Robert Pattinson is American, right?”  

Umm, no.  We all shared a good laugh though.

Finally, we learned that some people from London do not particularly consider themselves to be British, even if they were born and raised there.  I need to research this a little more to understand.  Moreover, there is a lot of respect for the Queen here.  Brian and I watched our mouths to make sure we said nothing disparaging at all or even close about her as people are pretty serious about the Queen.  On the Underground one night, two men were straight fighting because one spoke disparagingly about her.  Some people very much want the Queen to have peace and not feel like there is unrest in London.  You can look up unrest in London amongst younger adults to see what that is all about…

Transportation

Again, going back to the tube system in London…I have to say, between the rail and the bus systems, London has a pretty nice way to get around the city.  Maybe some areas are nicer than others (not as sketch), but it gets you pretty much where you need to be, as long as you make sure you know where you are going.  There are signs and brochures to help though. 

Just make sure you keep moving because you will get ran over if not. 

In addition, when you are going up and down the escalators, stay to the right if you are not going to actually walk up or down the escalators. 

Lastly, a lot of people ride bikes around town—without helmets.

Food and Drink

London had a lot of great food and drink options, especially along the riverfront.  We went to a place called the Anchor, which had a lot of history behind it.  That is how we learned that you order food and drink at the bar, take a number, and then it is delivered to you.  Speaking of delivery, the food comes out quicker than anything I have already seen.  The time of food delivery is about cut in half compared to the U.S.   This is another nugget of information I will have to research when I get more free time, just to see if the foods are pre-prepared or if there are some standards in the U.S. of food preparation that differ from the U.K.

Most of the food in London was pre-packaged at side shops, with many people eating pre-prepared sandwiches.  I have already talked about the sodas in London, but thankfully, when we arrived to Dublin, Ireland today (YAY-we are here), I had my first good tasting Coke.  Yippee!

Tours

My goodness, there is so much to do in London!  From the London Eye to London Dungeon, to the Clink Prison (oldest prison in England), Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, London Bridge, Tower of London, Harry Potter set location tour, Hyde Park,  St. James’s Park etc. (which we all did).  You can even see Broadway plays here like Wicked and Billy Elliot (we saw Wicked the night before we departed for London from the U.S.).  We didn’t do the double-decker bus tour just because Brian is the wiz when it comes to navigating (I am so lucky, since I have issues with directions, heee heee).  This enabled us to get a lot of walking in, and see great sites like outdoor markets, beautifully crafted historic buildings, and just so many interesting people.  We enjoyed the diversity of the city and observing all the people that you can tell come from so many different backgrounds.

Westminster Abbey

Buckingham Palace gates

View from the London Eye of Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, River Thames, etc.

On set of the Harry Potter Tour--London location

Yesterday we went on a guided bus tour (got up at 5:00am, arrived home at 9:15pm) to Stonehenge, Bath, the Cotswolds, and Stratford-upon-Avon.  It was absolutely amazing.  Stonehenge is quite breathtaking, and the guided tour really gives you a thorough history lesson.  You are not allowed to touch the stones anymore (due to preservation), as the stones are aging and some stones have even fallen down.  When we arrived to Bath, it was breathtaking!  If we ever come back to England, we would love to stay in a Bed and Breakfast and just experience Bath again.  We were able to see the Pump Room and caught a great picture of the Roman Bath below.  The Olympic torch was making its way through Bath that day, but unfortunately, we were leaving on the tour for our next stop before  it was coming through.  We ate at the smallest pub in Bath for lunch, and it was really the first experience we had that didn’t seem so “modernized.”   Our next journey was through the Cotswolds, filled with sheep and beautiful rolling hills in shades of green and neon yellow.  The neon yellow is from the canola plant (where canola oil comes from).  We also were able to see several houses with thatched roofs.   Our last stop involved Stratford- upon-Avon, and we had a guided tour through the house Shakespeare was born and lived in.  We were able to sip champagne there and enjoy scones with fruit preserves and cotted cheese.  Yes, “cotted” cheese, not “cottage” cheese.  The cheese tasted like whipped cream to me—yum!

Stonehenge

Brian hanging out at the "Smallest Pub in Bath."

At the Roman Baths

The Cotswolds

Shakepeare's Home in Stratford-upon-Avon

Weather

For most of our time in London, we didn’t see the sun, but it finally showed its happiness yesterday.  When we arrived in Dublin today, we were greeted by warmth and sunshine again.  Not NC sunshine, as it is still cool here (long sleeves, pants, and boots).  However, it was very pleasant and you could tell people were out and about more due to better weather.  Hopefully, this keeps up when my study abroad program begins this Sunday.  Just in case though, I have my rain-jacket readyJ  One interesting caveat is the amount of daylight.  In London the sun was up by 5-ish in the morning and only started going down near 9-ish in the evening.  Even more, it was almost near 10-ish here in Dublin when the sun went down.

On to Dublin….

More to come about Dublin as we tour the city tomorrow—we love it so far!  Brian has tried Guinness, which he says is completely different than anywhere else, not that I know since I am not much of a beer drinker.  I did have an Irish coffee though (quite "tourist-y", I am sure), but it was delightful! I already have practiced my “Slainte,” and had three Irishmen kiss me on my cheek (Brian told them to, the rascal).  Here’s to tomorrow!

Enjoying my Irish coffee at a pub called, "O'Shea's!"

Cheers and Slainte!

Kara

Differences: Not right or wrong, just different...

So, today is a day I will blog about differences.  To some, it might mean nothing, other might think it is nothing, or even stupid (especially if they have never experienced it/ or have experienced it), or they might find it offensive.  If offended, I do extremely apologize.  I am only going off observation, lack of sleep, lack of sun, and some very tired feet.

Here we go (please excuse randomness):

*Speaking of sun, there is a lack-there-of.  Seriously, I saw my shadow the first time today...In four days. 
*Health-wise, I thought it quite peculiar that in the U.S., individuals from many areas have perfect weather this time of year, and could be outside enjoying this weather.  Instead, Americans are mostly inside, whereas people in the UK walk.  WALK...A LOT.
*It is about summer here, and my ears were so cold they hurt today.  I cannot believe how cold it is, and I am so glad I packed cold-weather clothing for...."summertime."
*Which brings me to my next point. I have seen maybe three people overweight/obese.  Yes, three.  In four days.  While I take my Jeep to the grocery store to get food (only 1/2 mile away), we walk here a full mile to get the food we need and return to our hotel.  This isn't uncommon.  Most people do this.
*Why?  Gas for a small car is like $125 dollars.  For realsies.  We saw a car getting fueled today and it was 80 pounds.  So times that by about 1.58 and you get a little over $125.
*So this brings me back to my next thought, which I know for absolute sure now...Americans are not only not receiving the most healthy diet (fresh, organic food is a big thing here in London--like the M&S),  but they truly don't understand or care about the nutrtional content placed in ther bodies.  It is exercise and a healthy diet.  Not one or the other.
*Moreover, everyone is walking.  We probably have walked 10-15 miles each day--just sightseeing, and enjoying ourselves.
*Again, all of this is matter of perspective--just mine. 
*I keep telling Brian that Americans do not know how well they have it.  It is the little things.  Like, ordering food for dinner.  You go to the bar to order, as you don't have a server to come take care of you.
*You also don't have the same toilets.  Which, by the way, is a BIG thing for me.  I suffer from tummy problems from time to time, and I think having to PAY to use the restroom is a form of discrimination.  But hey, that is just my perspective.
*Next best story from a day or two ago....Brian asks an informational lady outside of Victoria Station London where the "restroom" is at, which the lady replies with, "toilet?"  Now, in the U.S., I would have cringed at the word, "toilet," but I just observed and listened because this is all an educational experience.  We arrived to the "toilets," and shelled out 30 pence, the whole while I am talking about discrimination as I walk to the toilet.
*I talk about discrimination as those who might have digestive issues would use the restroom more than those that don't.  I cannot help my issues, but I have to pay more?  I get that the money goes to others, but I am not so sure "paying" to go to the restroom in the U.S would be kosher.  It isn't to me.  Again, my blog, my perspective.  BTW, toilets are different in the U.K.  They are like deep pots.
*Moving on... The smells here are interesting.  It is like a melting pot of smells.  However, sometime you get to a very common space, and the smell is overwhelmingly bad.  Take some time, and your senses will compensate and you will not smell it anymore. ****It took me about 10 minutes***
*London has a great place called "Tesco," like "Walmart."  The one near our hotel is huge, and comes with foxes out in the parking lot.  No, for real.  Lurking about.
*If you come to London for the Olympics, stay downtown, if you can.  If not, then talk to me, and let me forewarn you what to expect on the trains (overground and underground tubes, etc.). I am not talking about it on this blog.  That is a one-on-one convo.  I have had some great conversations from people living in London who think the transportation situation in London will be horrible. After I visited trains from Euston to Kings Cross, and St. Pancras Station  to Bushey, not to mention the multitude of bus lines (like RV1), I am just saying it can get really crowded....Have your trip planned out if you come to London for the Olympics.  I say this because if the trains or buses are cramped now (where I am chest-to-chest) with others, then you might be having a problem coming in to London.
*Watch what you say.  I kept displaying "American ignorance"  by saying, "Oh,  Brian honey, they don't know what I am saying."  When individuals living in London say something, and I can't understand them, I kept thinking, why would they understand us?  Well, I was informed by "Jawed" (pronounced "Joey")  last night at our hotel (when I asked btw), that Americans actually are really understandable, as we pronounce every syllable exactly, whereas individuals from the U.K. seem to cut off certain syllables (per Jawed).
*So, I adore me some Coca-Cola.  I LOVE it on ice.  When I tried it here in the U.K. I kept calling it (I am so sorry to those who this may be offensive), "glorified tablet water."  Meaning they tried to make it taste a certain way with a tablet like the patent.  I know, shame on me.  I later learned that each country takes the patent ingredients of a product like Coke and "change" it to make it more acceptable to the "palate" of a certain country.  So, my take on regular Coke from London is the America diet coke, with a little more water, to take the edge off any sugar.  I have bought Pepsi, and 7-Up...all the same.
*I will have even more tomorrow as we went to the actual place Harry Potter today (tired you all) and it was filmed here in London.  On a special note,  thank you to Melissa for ever letting me borrow the Harry Potter DVDS back in 2005 to enable me to understand the amazing world the books and movies offer.
*There are commercials making fun of Britney Spears and how "fat" she still is...Just saying what I hear you all...

Cheers!

Kara

Countdown: We're Here! Come on, that's right, Cheerio!

Let me just say...

We have stories. 

Many, many stories, and it has only been a day here in London.  Like for instance, my initial story of the birds.  Wherever I have ventured today, I see lots of birds.  Pigeons, mostly.  But oh, the lovely little birdie I kept watching as I was guarding our bags at London Heathrow (while Brian was completing a currency exchange)....

Some might know where this is going.

As Brian went to exchange currency, I decided to sit down within the non-occupied seats to watch said "birdie."

Twenty seats, mind you.

Well, said "birdie" decided to greet me first.

As I sat down, I noticed something wet coming through my pants.  Yep, sure enough, bird crap on my pants.

Making this worse, Brian came running letting me know he had the correct currency, and that our bus was ready to depart.

"But honey, I need to get the crap off my pants, " I desperately exclaimed.

After everyone was able to see my sweet Brian "wash off my bum" with a wet sock, we were on our way to the hotel.

So, this brings me to some highlights of the day (birds excluded):

• London is cold.  Long sleeves, jacket, and coat y'all.
• London traffic is redunk.  Just saying.  Remember to look both ways, because traffic is more than likely coming in a direction you may not be use to.
• If you ride on the trains through London, you seem some, err, "interesting" sites.
• We went to this place called, "Tesco," which reminds me of a Wal-Mart, but wayyy better. 
• London encourages healthy eating.  Everything seems to have the nutritional label on it, McDonald's is super different, and you see people out and walking/biking a lot.  BTW, the aforementioned Tesco has six--yes, six--aisle of fresh produce.  Heaven.  This is compared to our little area back home at Lowe's Food that has nothing compared to this.
• If you ask for crackers with your soup, and the server asks if you want a biscuit, don't say no.  We aren't talking about country-style biscuits here, we are talking about true crackers.  Just a name difference.  Yes, I learned the hard way.
• Gas here is $8.30 approximately a gallon.  For realsies.  I feel bad about complaining all these years.
• People are super nice....so far.

Note my next bullet below and this photo will make sense.

• Dog "doo" is considered dog "dirt" here. Heehee.
• A cart or a buggy is considered a "trolley."
• In the U.S., if we were to be "going" somewhere, it is called "calling" in London.
• Brian has breakfast this morning here, and it included baked beans.  Yep.  That happened.
• Custom is to walk on the left-hand side, not the right-hand side of people.  However, when you are on the escalator you make sure to ride on the right-hand side so commuters can pass you.
• An elevator is referred to as a "lift."
• You are lucky to find A/C in a place here.  It is just because there are usually no extremes in temperatures.  *Our hotel has no a/c.  Poor Brian. Lucky me:)*
• I laugh when people say dirty words over here.  I have heard several younger adults say things in passing, and it truly makes me giggle. 
• Many youth use earphones to talk to people on the trains, not just holding their ears up to their phone.  I have several reasons why I think this is done.
• London needs to get up to date on some Internet service.  For realsies.  HELLO, Olympics.
• At breakfast, a server at the restaurant we were at said that he had been here since 1998 and thinks they made a mistake with holding the Olympics here (due to traffic, weather, etc.).

Alas, more to come tomorrow!  Five hours ahead right now, so needing to get some sleep.



Fact of the day (Non-Shamrocking):  My first word was "bird."  Go figure, you dirty little pigeon-bird you.


Slainte,



Kara

Westminster Cathedral

Countdown: One Day----My bags are packed, I'm ready to go...

Hi all!

Well, the weeks have certainly flown by, and it is finally here!

Mom keeps telling me, "It's the trip of a lifetime."

I love my family, and even though they all worry about me (all the time), I know it is because they care and love me very much.  I sure will miss them all!

So, to ensure things go pretty smoothly tomorrow and the next few days, Brian and I have been driving around like crazy trying to get all our errands and last minute to-do's done.  It has been quite funny, because when we are in the house, we keep thinking that we are forgetting something.  Perhaps it is because our little wiener dog Scooter is at his grandma and grandpa's getting spoiled for the next couple weeks.  For those that know the Scootman, he is like a little human and is already mad at us for leaving him.  No lie.  What is even worse is that we catch ourselves while in the house (or even the car) singing to him and talking to him, or waiting for him to come around the corner.  Haha, we already miss our Scoot-poot, the little devil that he is!

On another note, I have packed before to go on vacation and never, I MEAN NEVER has it taken me six hours to pack.  I kept second-guessing myself and repacking so that is why it took so long.  Hallelujah though, it is done.

Tomorrow and the next few days will have much more to come. We go to watch the play, "Wicked," tonight and then come back to go straight to sleep.

Ha.

Here's the lyrics I keep singing all day to myself, thanks to Mr. John Denver:

All my bags are packed,
I'm ready to go,
I'm standing here,
Outside your door,
I hate to wake you up to say Good Bye.
But the dawn is breakin', It's early morn`,
The taxi's waiting, he's blowin' his horn.
Already I'm so lonesome I could die.

So kiss me and smile for me,
Tell me that you'll wait for me,
Hold me, like you never let me go.
Cause I'm leaving on a jet plane,
Don't know when I'll be back again,
Oh Babe I hate to go.

Here's to one week day!

Slainte,

Kara

My Shamrocking Fact:  The Southeast enjoys more hours of sunshine than the rest of Ireland, and Northern Ireland gets less sunshine than the rest of the country. As in other countries in the Northern Hemisphere, the most sunshine occurs May through August, while December and January has only a few hours of sun per day. Perhaps just as important in Ireland, because of its northern latitude, are the hours of light each day. In the summer you may only have a few hours of real dark, while during the winter sunlight is a thing to be treasured.  

http://www.authenticireland.com/ireland+facts

.

Irish Saying:  "Slán agus beannacht leat." Goodbye and blessings on you.