The last week arrived with a bang. frantic packing, loads and mountains of clothing, sheets, duvets, hair dryers, towels, used books and half filled bottles of vodka and cider lined the hallways. Indeed the remains of the semester have been left behind.
We said our goodbyes early to Fawn, Katie and Steph. Our night wednesday broke out into a tesco run that ended up at Opal, the smallest little club ever. to hot. to crowded. but i had to dance party with katie my love one last night. Thursday we had a huge dance party all afternoon and night in her room, singing and dancing and hugging and crying. It was really hard to see her go. but i know we'll see her soon...end of story. After she departed, we decided to drown our sorrows and go to Kavanaughs' one last night. swamped with old men of course. and some REALLY crazy dancers. Scotty got a run for his money with one girl ;) hahaha. watch for the you tube video of that one. :-D
Last week of work (thank god). I'll really miss the RTYC. The people and atmosphere the most. secretarial work? mmm not so much. But it's been the experience of a lifetime and no where in the world would i ever get to work with such a posh clientel and with such friendly coworkers and supervisors. At the end of Friday, Annabel and Jonathan were being sneaky. The captain gave a little speak at the close of the work day and presented me with a huge card from everyone, and Annabel and Jonathan bought me a tea diffuzer and tea cup from Harrods' as well as a RTYC polo. I'm sincerely going to miss working along side them. They have been great mentors.
Friday night was our staff Christmas party. I ran home after work to change and met up with Annabel, Jamie, Jonathan, Mike, Jamie's fiance, Monty and JG at a pub around the corner before we went to the drinks and canapes reception at the club. Headed over to the club for some bubbly champagne, the Grand raffle (in which Jonathan and Jamie had a competition to buy the most tickets), and actually had at least a 5 minute one on one conversation with the Vice Commodore. Mike won a bottle of high class champagne, and gave it to me. I proceeded to carry it around with me (unopened) to dinner and then had to walk home with it. Wow. i probably looked like a star. Dinner at Biagio's was really fun. We had Christmas Crackers (the poppers Tor has every year with the toys, fortunes and funny hats) and delicious sea food risotto. one of the best meals id had in four months. Said my goodbyes to everyone :( and then proceeded to walk home from Picadilly because I'm stupid like that.
Came back to the dorm, (it was only 1030? 11?) and I fell to the floor in the hallway. Our last night consisted of dance parties, sing alongs, hugs, and getting rid of as much alcohol that was left over as possible. I took a sip of the champagne that I had brought home for everyone, and cut myself off after that, but made sure that everyone else indulged and enjoyed every last drop. We pulled an allnighter for the most part before Dani's departure at 4 am. Danielle left at 6, and after that the tears just kept coming. I think my tear ducts are completely dry now. We said goodbye on the hour pretty much. Our morning commenced with a last breakfast together of Mario's omlettes, and bran flakes/muesli. Oh atlantic house canteen...
The new yorker flight was the last coach to peace out at 12. Lynn and Brad and Haley parted from the rest of us, and more tears were shed again. As we drove away from hyde park and gloucester road the tears kept flowing. It felt so surreal, like we weren't really leaving, and would be seeing the streets that had become so familiar to us over the past four months sometime really soon.
The airport scene was a disaster in a nutshell. I waited to check in for an hour and a half or more, had to repack my suitcases at one point, almost had to pay for overweight, got lost on my way to the security check, got my bag searched and emptied entirely at security, couldn't find my gate, almost missed the plane. literally was crying, and running down the halls *by myself* right in the nick of time. Josine was in line a few up from me, in the same frantic state, and ashley b came running up behind me 3 minutes later. Some of the kids had been able to get on way before us and had a chance to eat, but i hadnt even had a chance to pee since 1130 that morning. Ashley had said Scott and Christie were still behind us somewhere and she didn'tknow if they were going to make the plane. Scott was the last one on the plane, and Christie didn't even make the 4 oclock. It was hell. The flight itself was much better. I passed out off and on, and watched Ratatouille and Harry Potter :)
I wish you could have seen the smiles and excitement on all of our faces when we landed. A wave of happiness rushed over me. As i turned the corner from customs, of course there's mom at the gate yelling "KRISTA!!! KRISTA!!!" (you know what im talking about) and snapping 800 pictures. I pull over to the side, and get side swiped by Britty, who wasnt supposed to be there. Then 2 minutes later i see this poster near me with a huge Cupcake on it, covering someones face and it said welcome home cupcake! and i screamed (elbowing a woman next to me apparently) and attacked Jodie who surprised me as well. The tear ducts opened up again, and i was so happy to see everyone.
Snow was falling, and covered the ground when i got home. And it's still snowing now. We have about 2 feet out there. The house is completely covered in Christmas decor, the tree is lit and the stove is burning bright. It's wonderful.
I miss London already, but it's amazing to be home. The comforts I've missed so much are right at my finger tips. I miss you all already and I hope everyone had a safe flight home, and I can't wait to see you all again at Steph's wedding. ROAD TRIP 2009!!!!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Christmas, Chocolates and Chaos
Last Friday we had the ultimate 80's Power Hour Work Out Dance Party. I have to say it was by far amazingness on the Fourth Floor. Provided by Steph M, there was also an Irish tune thrown into the mix. Love her. haha. Silvia's biffle flatmate from florida is here visiting and she is AWESOME :) She got right into our 80's attire and crazy shananigans right off the bat. Highlights include some favorites: summer of '69, boys of summer, jesse's girl (i dedicated that one to you jessmeister) We got reemed out by our "friend" down the hall and basically ended the night with a long game of never have i ever. For some reason it is found enjoyable to call me out on a few of the more interesting experiences and embarassing moments i have shared with these kids...and Danielle or Steph never cease to let up. Love it.
Saturday we woke up bright and early to head to Brugge (Belgium) for the day. and by early I mean early. We left at 515am, and had to snag a cab to make sure we made it to the bus stop on time. Scott of course had some issues, but did indeed make it in the knick of time. The trip itself was fun, but not worth the amount of traveling we ended up enduring. We coached to the coast of Dover, took SeaFrance across the water, got off in Calais, France and then coached our way to Brugge. We only had about 3 hours in the city, which wasnt much time to enjoy it thoroughly enough. However there were really cool Christmas markets, food vendors, chocolate shoppes, and awesome architecture. Apparently Brugge is very similiar to Venice, so I was glad I got to experience Italy slightly. I saw this amazing looking soup/stew thing boiling at one of the vendors and really wanted to try it, but it was actually a bunch of snails soaking in a stew stock. The woman asked if Scott and I wanted to try one though, so we said c'est la vie and gave it a whirl. It was wicked good. Like REALLY good. It taked like a clam or mussel perhaps. yum. Of course there were waffles baking every where and chocolate galour so you could literally smell the city from a mile away. Too bad it was really cold, and was pouring outside. Made for some really chilled hands, let me tell you. They've never been so white. The trip home was hell. in a nutshell. we got to the ferry on time. but the winds and weather were so bad they had closed the Dover port in England. We werent going to be able to catch the ferry until 10 pm. (it was now 7pm). There was no where for us to eat but a mini shack with a few toilets, three vending machines (which only took coins) and sold dixie cups of hot liquid, or a bottle of soda. We get on the bus and curl up to watch Wild Hogs (thank god the DVD player decided to work) which was the only movie that would work in the player for some reason. The bus driver comes and calls our attention at about half past eight to tell us that we now would not be able to get onto the first ferry at 10 and werent going to be leaving France until midnight. MIDNIGHT!....well, to skip the next 45 minutes-- We actually were able to get on the ship at half past nine actually. we dont know how or why, but we were. The journey was absolutely awful. the ship was rocking and rolling the entire time. if you were walking you were literally swaying from side to side of the ship. im not exagerating. walking down the stairs i felt like i was being lifted 5 ft from the ground. i thought i was going to puke. so i went and lied down the rest of the time with my eyes closed until we pulled into England. Next time remember: Journey time vs Travel time = ALWAYS GO FOR THE JOURNEY.
Sunday Katie and Scott took me to Camden Market. Amazing. It was like spitalfields on steroids. i loved it so so much. i wish i had gone earlier in the year, but never had the chance. so many things i wish i could have the chance to enjoy more. I am going to miss the market culture more than anything. When we got home we all were cramming for our final reports that we had to have handed in for Monday morning. stressful 3500 word paper. but its done. its over. 18 pages later. phew.
Monday was Tigger's (aka Silvia) birthday. Celebrations included going out for dinner at Las Iguanas, and getting some yummy Sangria. Then we carried on over to the Roadhouse and danced the night away. Yummy drinks there as well for half price. yay. Philidelphia Pear Drop and a Georgia Peach (can you tell they americanized their bar for the most part?) They also have live music, and a really sweet cover band. who started the night with a blink 182 cover, which i of course freaked out about because i'm lame like that.
Last night we went to Builder's for just a bit for some Winter Pimm's and Fawn's last big Hurrah! with everyone since she'll be so busy tonight. I'm not talking about leaving. It's too sad.
I called the SEC Holiday party at 430 this morning. oh man. i love you guys, you shizzle shows. I think I even spoke with Rob Eaton!! ROB EATON I MISS YOUUUUU!!! (and our frequent meetings on the elevator of the West Side, or staircases of Merrow) I miss all of you lovers, and can't wait to see you next week.
Moving on... it's time for breakfast.
x Krista
Saturday we woke up bright and early to head to Brugge (Belgium) for the day. and by early I mean early. We left at 515am, and had to snag a cab to make sure we made it to the bus stop on time. Scott of course had some issues, but did indeed make it in the knick of time. The trip itself was fun, but not worth the amount of traveling we ended up enduring. We coached to the coast of Dover, took SeaFrance across the water, got off in Calais, France and then coached our way to Brugge. We only had about 3 hours in the city, which wasnt much time to enjoy it thoroughly enough. However there were really cool Christmas markets, food vendors, chocolate shoppes, and awesome architecture. Apparently Brugge is very similiar to Venice, so I was glad I got to experience Italy slightly. I saw this amazing looking soup/stew thing boiling at one of the vendors and really wanted to try it, but it was actually a bunch of snails soaking in a stew stock. The woman asked if Scott and I wanted to try one though, so we said c'est la vie and gave it a whirl. It was wicked good. Like REALLY good. It taked like a clam or mussel perhaps. yum. Of course there were waffles baking every where and chocolate galour so you could literally smell the city from a mile away. Too bad it was really cold, and was pouring outside. Made for some really chilled hands, let me tell you. They've never been so white. The trip home was hell. in a nutshell. we got to the ferry on time. but the winds and weather were so bad they had closed the Dover port in England. We werent going to be able to catch the ferry until 10 pm. (it was now 7pm). There was no where for us to eat but a mini shack with a few toilets, three vending machines (which only took coins) and sold dixie cups of hot liquid, or a bottle of soda. We get on the bus and curl up to watch Wild Hogs (thank god the DVD player decided to work) which was the only movie that would work in the player for some reason. The bus driver comes and calls our attention at about half past eight to tell us that we now would not be able to get onto the first ferry at 10 and werent going to be leaving France until midnight. MIDNIGHT!....well, to skip the next 45 minutes-- We actually were able to get on the ship at half past nine actually. we dont know how or why, but we were. The journey was absolutely awful. the ship was rocking and rolling the entire time. if you were walking you were literally swaying from side to side of the ship. im not exagerating. walking down the stairs i felt like i was being lifted 5 ft from the ground. i thought i was going to puke. so i went and lied down the rest of the time with my eyes closed until we pulled into England. Next time remember: Journey time vs Travel time = ALWAYS GO FOR THE JOURNEY.
Sunday Katie and Scott took me to Camden Market. Amazing. It was like spitalfields on steroids. i loved it so so much. i wish i had gone earlier in the year, but never had the chance. so many things i wish i could have the chance to enjoy more. I am going to miss the market culture more than anything. When we got home we all were cramming for our final reports that we had to have handed in for Monday morning. stressful 3500 word paper. but its done. its over. 18 pages later. phew.
Monday was Tigger's (aka Silvia) birthday. Celebrations included going out for dinner at Las Iguanas, and getting some yummy Sangria. Then we carried on over to the Roadhouse and danced the night away. Yummy drinks there as well for half price. yay. Philidelphia Pear Drop and a Georgia Peach (can you tell they americanized their bar for the most part?) They also have live music, and a really sweet cover band. who started the night with a blink 182 cover, which i of course freaked out about because i'm lame like that.
Last night we went to Builder's for just a bit for some Winter Pimm's and Fawn's last big Hurrah! with everyone since she'll be so busy tonight. I'm not talking about leaving. It's too sad.
I called the SEC Holiday party at 430 this morning. oh man. i love you guys, you shizzle shows. I think I even spoke with Rob Eaton!! ROB EATON I MISS YOUUUUU!!! (and our frequent meetings on the elevator of the West Side, or staircases of Merrow) I miss all of you lovers, and can't wait to see you next week.
Moving on... it's time for breakfast.
x Krista
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Christmas is Magical
Christmas time is here!
We kicked off the Christmas season with some classic gingerbread house making provided by Scott. Big props. All of us were pretty sick with stuffy noses and headaches, so we played some classic Christmas tunes, and had a blast building gingerbread houses out of shortbread and gingersnaps, frosting, silver balls, and sugarplums.
Saturday afternoon Danielle, Lynn, Haley and I shared a magical day. We went to Oxford and Regent Street where they had shut down traffic for the day, for "VIP Day." Pretty much the streets were lined with street performers, christmas music, characters, sales, and amazing festive lights and decorations. We bought tea, and browsed the Christmas department in some of the big name stores and looked at all the gorgeous ornaments, and christmas cards for sale. As we were leaving one of the stores, we saw flakes falling ever so softly. We thought they were fake at first, and then realized indeed they were real. As we were turning out of the store at the same moment, fireworks went off from the top of the two buildings in front of us at one of the main intersections of Regent and Oxford. The snow was falling, fireworks were exploding and the Christmas music was supporting the background. It was magical. We hopped a bus to Knightsbridge, and hit up Harrod's Christmas World too. As we left, it was flurrying tenfold. It was so amazing. We tried this place Hare and Tortoise for dinner, which was amazing cheap sushi (big props to Sean, our tour guide from Ireland for that tip) and capped the night off with some classy Asti from sainsburys in Danielles room, with more christmas tunes and paper writing.
Christmas movie downloads from You Tube have also been a prime entertainment this week. So far we've watched A Muppet Christmas Carol, The Christmas Toy, Rudolph, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Santa Claus and Elf... always accompanying the perfect night in. We colored adorable Christmas cartoons and decorated the hall. Awesomeness.
The last younger members drinks party at the Royal Thames Yacht Club was last night. I had a blast. Hung out with Annabel and a few of her friends, who werent members, and two of which didn't have any interest in sailing even (ha! loved that.) Was treated to Champagne by a few, and then got to try my first Winter Pimm's (George style of course...which always means trouble) It was amazingly delicious. It tastes like warm gingerbread! AMAZING. It was so much fun, and I didn't want to leave. But i went to go and meet up with the cool kids after so we could go skating, but that didnt happen, so we walked through the Winter Wonderland of Hyde Park. Came back and passed out to The Santa Claus.
Only a weekish left. It's crazy. We all have a final report to write and none of us have started pretty much. We've just been trying to live it up as much as possible the last nights we have together. I'm going to miss everyone so much!! I'm really excited to be coming back home because I miss everything about home too. So bitter-sweet. Sigh.
Off to Builder's for some more winter pimm's. :)
x Krista
We kicked off the Christmas season with some classic gingerbread house making provided by Scott. Big props. All of us were pretty sick with stuffy noses and headaches, so we played some classic Christmas tunes, and had a blast building gingerbread houses out of shortbread and gingersnaps, frosting, silver balls, and sugarplums.
Saturday afternoon Danielle, Lynn, Haley and I shared a magical day. We went to Oxford and Regent Street where they had shut down traffic for the day, for "VIP Day." Pretty much the streets were lined with street performers, christmas music, characters, sales, and amazing festive lights and decorations. We bought tea, and browsed the Christmas department in some of the big name stores and looked at all the gorgeous ornaments, and christmas cards for sale. As we were leaving one of the stores, we saw flakes falling ever so softly. We thought they were fake at first, and then realized indeed they were real. As we were turning out of the store at the same moment, fireworks went off from the top of the two buildings in front of us at one of the main intersections of Regent and Oxford. The snow was falling, fireworks were exploding and the Christmas music was supporting the background. It was magical. We hopped a bus to Knightsbridge, and hit up Harrod's Christmas World too. As we left, it was flurrying tenfold. It was so amazing. We tried this place Hare and Tortoise for dinner, which was amazing cheap sushi (big props to Sean, our tour guide from Ireland for that tip) and capped the night off with some classy Asti from sainsburys in Danielles room, with more christmas tunes and paper writing.
Christmas movie downloads from You Tube have also been a prime entertainment this week. So far we've watched A Muppet Christmas Carol, The Christmas Toy, Rudolph, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Santa Claus and Elf... always accompanying the perfect night in. We colored adorable Christmas cartoons and decorated the hall. Awesomeness.
The last younger members drinks party at the Royal Thames Yacht Club was last night. I had a blast. Hung out with Annabel and a few of her friends, who werent members, and two of which didn't have any interest in sailing even (ha! loved that.) Was treated to Champagne by a few, and then got to try my first Winter Pimm's (George style of course...which always means trouble) It was amazingly delicious. It tastes like warm gingerbread! AMAZING. It was so much fun, and I didn't want to leave. But i went to go and meet up with the cool kids after so we could go skating, but that didnt happen, so we walked through the Winter Wonderland of Hyde Park. Came back and passed out to The Santa Claus.
Only a weekish left. It's crazy. We all have a final report to write and none of us have started pretty much. We've just been trying to live it up as much as possible the last nights we have together. I'm going to miss everyone so much!! I'm really excited to be coming back home because I miss everything about home too. So bitter-sweet. Sigh.
Off to Builder's for some more winter pimm's. :)
x Krista
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Who Feast
Fah who for-aye, dah who dor-aye, welcome Christmas bring your light.
Sunday night launched the Christmas movie season. I christened it with Elf of course with Dani and Scott. It was fabulous.
Monday night i got home from work and was rushing around with Steph who accompanied me to Sainsbury's to pick up some canape platters for the who-feast Tuesday. I was so excited to cook up some Reese's bars for everyone. we went to the internship kitchen and whipped up some desserts, and stored them there for the next day. came back, and passed out...Presentation on the RTYC got a few slides...not to much accomplished.
Tuesday was our Who Feast. It was so exciting. The caf cooked our turkey for us, and I arranged to have the food picked up by our supervisors. We got to the office around 530, and everyone started to trickle in by 7. We started out with drinks and the canape platters and a few appetizers, then moved on to our who feast of Thanksgiving foods, and we all went around and said what we were thankful for. tears were shed by most. it was so unbelievable. i'm honestly so thankful to have such amazing friends here. its rare that you spend such a short amount of time with people, and bond so quickly and so well. we all click, and are just one huge family sharing one amazing experience together. i cherish every second i have here because before we know it, we'll be back in the states and my washington lover next door and my naked michigan and texans down the hall won't be there every second of my day to make me laugh, and the mega bed will soon be pulled apart, and no longer the dance party floor....i just am so thankful to have friends who have turned into family and blessed with such a life-changing experience. i'm so thankful to have had the opportunity to plan a dinner from start to finish (even if it wasn't through my job) that took off and everyone loved. it meant so much to me. Lynn and the crew gave me a poinsetta, and whole foods card. Sweetest thing ever. The poinsetta can replace the flower my mom gave me that i killed by accident. Our advisors Elizabeth and Francesca came to our who feast as well and it was so great to have another opportunity to bond with them. I'm really going to miss this place.
Today of course, i got swamped with work, on top of having to do my presentation for my internship tonight. i had to adjust a lot of the slides and add some pictures last minute, which i figured i could do during work, or at least during my lunch break. nope. i was slammed with tasks today, and then to cap it off, i had left my adaptor back at the dorm, and the club couldn't find a US/UK adaptor, and the convienent store wanted 9 quid for one. no thank you. so i was really stressed out needless to say. anyways, i rushed home and finished it up, gave the presentation and we went out to the piano bar for Ashley's birthday.
the piano bar was awesome as usual. new boy on the piano. he rocked my socks. i have to say we had a few moments. i won't lie. i was eye 'elf-ing' him. he gave me a few smiles, eye 'elf-ing' back and a few funny faces. it was awesome. i fall hard and fast if you play me 'hey jude' and then end the night with 'your song'. and of course add my glass of wine that supposedly 'seduces your palate'. fantastic.
now i'm waiting for 1:30 to hit so i can call my SEC lovers, and try to get ahold of someone with service in Edwards so i can hear Matt Nathanson play for a little bit. Ben was opening tonight, and i'm sure he rocked some faces as well. So sad i missed some of the best acts this semester. but we won't go down that path right now. ...20 minutes and i'm gonna give a ring.... until this weekend, au revoir mon amis.
x Krista
Sunday night launched the Christmas movie season. I christened it with Elf of course with Dani and Scott. It was fabulous.
Monday night i got home from work and was rushing around with Steph who accompanied me to Sainsbury's to pick up some canape platters for the who-feast Tuesday. I was so excited to cook up some Reese's bars for everyone. we went to the internship kitchen and whipped up some desserts, and stored them there for the next day. came back, and passed out...Presentation on the RTYC got a few slides...not to much accomplished.
Tuesday was our Who Feast. It was so exciting. The caf cooked our turkey for us, and I arranged to have the food picked up by our supervisors. We got to the office around 530, and everyone started to trickle in by 7. We started out with drinks and the canape platters and a few appetizers, then moved on to our who feast of Thanksgiving foods, and we all went around and said what we were thankful for. tears were shed by most. it was so unbelievable. i'm honestly so thankful to have such amazing friends here. its rare that you spend such a short amount of time with people, and bond so quickly and so well. we all click, and are just one huge family sharing one amazing experience together. i cherish every second i have here because before we know it, we'll be back in the states and my washington lover next door and my naked michigan and texans down the hall won't be there every second of my day to make me laugh, and the mega bed will soon be pulled apart, and no longer the dance party floor....i just am so thankful to have friends who have turned into family and blessed with such a life-changing experience. i'm so thankful to have had the opportunity to plan a dinner from start to finish (even if it wasn't through my job) that took off and everyone loved. it meant so much to me. Lynn and the crew gave me a poinsetta, and whole foods card. Sweetest thing ever. The poinsetta can replace the flower my mom gave me that i killed by accident. Our advisors Elizabeth and Francesca came to our who feast as well and it was so great to have another opportunity to bond with them. I'm really going to miss this place.
Today of course, i got swamped with work, on top of having to do my presentation for my internship tonight. i had to adjust a lot of the slides and add some pictures last minute, which i figured i could do during work, or at least during my lunch break. nope. i was slammed with tasks today, and then to cap it off, i had left my adaptor back at the dorm, and the club couldn't find a US/UK adaptor, and the convienent store wanted 9 quid for one. no thank you. so i was really stressed out needless to say. anyways, i rushed home and finished it up, gave the presentation and we went out to the piano bar for Ashley's birthday.
the piano bar was awesome as usual. new boy on the piano. he rocked my socks. i have to say we had a few moments. i won't lie. i was eye 'elf-ing' him. he gave me a few smiles, eye 'elf-ing' back and a few funny faces. it was awesome. i fall hard and fast if you play me 'hey jude' and then end the night with 'your song'. and of course add my glass of wine that supposedly 'seduces your palate'. fantastic.
now i'm waiting for 1:30 to hit so i can call my SEC lovers, and try to get ahold of someone with service in Edwards so i can hear Matt Nathanson play for a little bit. Ben was opening tonight, and i'm sure he rocked some faces as well. So sad i missed some of the best acts this semester. but we won't go down that path right now. ...20 minutes and i'm gonna give a ring.... until this weekend, au revoir mon amis.
x Krista
Sunday, November 25, 2007
UK Turkey Day...Sad.
this week was completely boring at work. we were all on facebook, threading one another non-stop. we're such good interns.
thursday was depressing. i miss the macys day parade. big time. i miss my family. big time. annnnd i miss all of you. BUT, the christmas music season has arrived. went to Tesco (the BIG one) after work... (annabel told me to go home early because it was Thanksgiving). I bought a HUGE frozen turkey, almost 20lbs. and carried that sucker back from Earls Court. INTENSE. you should see my guns. i need a license for these suckers. that night, a bunch of us went to The Loop with scott's brother for karaoke rock star, and ashley and i drowned our turkey day sorrows with a jug of seabreeze, and Hit Me Baby One More Time. We were dubbed international rockstars. so much fun. then we came back here, and rocked out a little longer. ultimate dance party in the mega bed. i tried to go to bed, oh about 4 times, and kept running back in, each time slowly proceeding to change into my pjs as i had originally planned. eventually i got yelled at to just go to bed, and was shut in my room.
Friday i was dead to the world. we got a new coffee pot at work, which annabel and i were stoaked about. but the first few rounds tasted like plastic, and it made me sick to my stomach. i couldn't think straight all day, and all of my facebook threading was halted seeing as Katie, Fawn, Dani and I were the only ones at work it seems. Everyone peaced out to Barcelona, or Berlin this weekend. and Danielle and Scott's families were here, so they were MIA a lot.
Went and bought lots of supplies and some party platters for the Who Feast Tuesday. Very excited.
Friday night the girls and i walked gloucester road, eventually just ending up back in the dorm anyways. I gave directions to some italian foreigners, which was hilarious. then we went and partied in the mega bed again.
Another Borough Market trip started my saturday. yum. hot cider. amazing. I hope I'm able to go at least once more before I leave. I'm even thinking of risking a trip the morning I have to go to the airport. If I plan it right, I can totally run there to get hot cider and say my goodbyes to my favorite farm stand and muesli makers (who by the way were NOT giving free samples this weekend. i was upset.) I managed to do all my laundry, have some lunch, finish my laundry, go to the library and pop in HM (who has a really cute new selection, which i need to stay away from) Then i went over to the V and A museum to check out the Fashion Exhibit. It was SO cool. it was a look at the progression of fashion since the 1700's and different designers and models. it was pretty sweet. Fawn's friend Russel is visiting, and we went to the Texas Embassy Cantina for dinner. Yum. and Yum. There was live music. a boy with a guitar, who i apparently "eye f-d". whatever. he deserved it. ;) i also kissed a long horned cow that was on the wall. previously stated boy with guitar helped me stand on a stool. we had a moment. at least in my mind. again. whatever. we moved on to The Porter House, which was packed, but really cool. too bad i didn't stay, but we went home, bought a bottle of wine, and then we ended up going to Kavanagh's. Typical. BUT fun none the less.
today, i finally got my shirt from spitalfields! :) i can't wait to wear it. it was way too much money, but i will never find another shirt like this again. you all may laugh. but i dont care. it rocks. and im pumped. skuttle and i checked out the Portrait Gallery as well, to try and see the Pop Art Portrait exhibit, but its too bad you have to pay 9 quid to see it. oh well. we passed it up and walked around the rest of the museum instead. and of course i got my dinner at whole foods, we came back here, talked to maja b, and my shortcake <3 and then we watched Elf to officially kick off the christmas movie season. good times.
Now it's back to class and work tomorrow. Busy day/week up to wednesday. Presentation due Wed night. Who Feast commences on Tuesday night. so tomorrow im baking, and making sure our turkey is still kickin'. and by kickin' i mean unfrozen and ready to be cooked up to deliciousness and then carved. woot. can't wait.
and now its nearly midnight, so i need sleep. happy birthday ben!
goodnight all. i love and miss you dearly. less than 3 weeks i will be back and ready to rock with you all again.
x Krista
thursday was depressing. i miss the macys day parade. big time. i miss my family. big time. annnnd i miss all of you. BUT, the christmas music season has arrived. went to Tesco (the BIG one) after work... (annabel told me to go home early because it was Thanksgiving). I bought a HUGE frozen turkey, almost 20lbs. and carried that sucker back from Earls Court. INTENSE. you should see my guns. i need a license for these suckers. that night, a bunch of us went to The Loop with scott's brother for karaoke rock star, and ashley and i drowned our turkey day sorrows with a jug of seabreeze, and Hit Me Baby One More Time. We were dubbed international rockstars. so much fun. then we came back here, and rocked out a little longer. ultimate dance party in the mega bed. i tried to go to bed, oh about 4 times, and kept running back in, each time slowly proceeding to change into my pjs as i had originally planned. eventually i got yelled at to just go to bed, and was shut in my room.
Friday i was dead to the world. we got a new coffee pot at work, which annabel and i were stoaked about. but the first few rounds tasted like plastic, and it made me sick to my stomach. i couldn't think straight all day, and all of my facebook threading was halted seeing as Katie, Fawn, Dani and I were the only ones at work it seems. Everyone peaced out to Barcelona, or Berlin this weekend. and Danielle and Scott's families were here, so they were MIA a lot.
Went and bought lots of supplies and some party platters for the Who Feast Tuesday. Very excited.
Friday night the girls and i walked gloucester road, eventually just ending up back in the dorm anyways. I gave directions to some italian foreigners, which was hilarious. then we went and partied in the mega bed again.
Another Borough Market trip started my saturday. yum. hot cider. amazing. I hope I'm able to go at least once more before I leave. I'm even thinking of risking a trip the morning I have to go to the airport. If I plan it right, I can totally run there to get hot cider and say my goodbyes to my favorite farm stand and muesli makers (who by the way were NOT giving free samples this weekend. i was upset.) I managed to do all my laundry, have some lunch, finish my laundry, go to the library and pop in HM (who has a really cute new selection, which i need to stay away from) Then i went over to the V and A museum to check out the Fashion Exhibit. It was SO cool. it was a look at the progression of fashion since the 1700's and different designers and models. it was pretty sweet. Fawn's friend Russel is visiting, and we went to the Texas Embassy Cantina for dinner. Yum. and Yum. There was live music. a boy with a guitar, who i apparently "eye f-d". whatever. he deserved it. ;) i also kissed a long horned cow that was on the wall. previously stated boy with guitar helped me stand on a stool. we had a moment. at least in my mind. again. whatever. we moved on to The Porter House, which was packed, but really cool. too bad i didn't stay, but we went home, bought a bottle of wine, and then we ended up going to Kavanagh's. Typical. BUT fun none the less.
today, i finally got my shirt from spitalfields! :) i can't wait to wear it. it was way too much money, but i will never find another shirt like this again. you all may laugh. but i dont care. it rocks. and im pumped. skuttle and i checked out the Portrait Gallery as well, to try and see the Pop Art Portrait exhibit, but its too bad you have to pay 9 quid to see it. oh well. we passed it up and walked around the rest of the museum instead. and of course i got my dinner at whole foods, we came back here, talked to maja b, and my shortcake <3 and then we watched Elf to officially kick off the christmas movie season. good times.
Now it's back to class and work tomorrow. Busy day/week up to wednesday. Presentation due Wed night. Who Feast commences on Tuesday night. so tomorrow im baking, and making sure our turkey is still kickin'. and by kickin' i mean unfrozen and ready to be cooked up to deliciousness and then carved. woot. can't wait.
and now its nearly midnight, so i need sleep. happy birthday ben!
goodnight all. i love and miss you dearly. less than 3 weeks i will be back and ready to rock with you all again.
x Krista
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Maja B Hits Up London
Mom came to visit from Thursday until Tuesday morning. It was AWESOME.
I woke up at the ass crack of dawn and caught the first tube over to heathrow to go pick her up from the airport. I won't lie. I cried when I saw her. I took her to London and we made our first trip to Sainsbury's to get coffee and some breakfast. Then walked to work. And left her to roam Harrod's and Hyde Park. We had lunch and after work we came back to Richmond where she met all my friends and I showed her around. Then we went to whole foods so she could get the amazing experience of cheap huge salads with salmon. Mom made it an early night, but I went out to Kavanaugh's with the interns, and had a blast dancing the night away once again.
Friday we hit up the Big Bus Tour. Before hand, we stoppped off at the Apollo Victoria Theatre and I bought us tickets for Wicked :) The Big Bus Tour was awesome. We got to see a lot of sights that I haven't had a chance to see since I've been here. Big Ben, Parlaiment, Westminster Abbey, The Eye, etc...We sat on the top of the bus and it was open air and i got to video tape a bunch. We got a free river cruise out of it as well, which was fun. We went back to my room after because we hadn't eaten and were cranky, so we got something to eat and took a rest before Wicked that night. Wicked was amazing. Elphaba was incredible. Her voice amazes me. Didn't miss a note. Mom loved it. She was so happy. On our way home we went to Black and Blue on Gloucester, and got some dinner. It was really nice inside, and yummy. Chargrilled chicken ceasar salads for two...mmmm.
Saturday morning we ventured to Borough Market and Portabello Market. Lots of shopping was done. Christmas presents galore- Done. Unfortunately it started to get dark and cold really fast as we were walking Portabello, so we headed back and caught the Big Bus again. We hit up Buckingham Palace just so mom could see it, and check it off the list. We went back to her place and relaxed for a while. We were exhausted. Originally we had planned to head to the Piano Bar, but we both kind of died out by the afternoon. We went to Sainsbury's, bought some dinner and went back to her hotel room. We also bought a bottle of Asti and a carton of grapefruit juice and to make our own cocktails. For Sunday. Early to bed because we were both over tired and had another big day ahead of us. It was wonderful.
Sunday morning we went to Spitalfield Market, where i bought the coolest shirt ever. You all will either laugh or think its rockstar material. either way i paid an arm and a leg for it, and the girl is altering it for me, and im gonna pick it up this coming Sunday. Another excuse to go back to the East End :) After Spitalfields, we headed back home and stopped at Speakers' Corner. Unfortunately it was raining still so it wasn't too exciting. We hit up Oxford Street, and then came back home. We kind of had another night in, drank our Asti and then went to get dinner at Med Kitchen at like 10 pm. It was really really good. HUGE salmon steak, and bellinis. Thank god mom was footing the bill.
Monday was her last day. It was awful weather outside. But we braved it and i took her to my secret spot in Hyde Park to see the Cavalrey walk by. "We waited in the rain for that?...No! No! I mean, it was wonderful!" yeah. thanks mom. So we grabbed some coffee, then headed to Tower of London for the afternoon. On our way home mom had her first authentic English pub experience with her half pint of lager. so classy. We went back to her hotel and changed, and then made plans to go to the piano bar and ice bar. scott serenaded my mom with some classics. way to be. then we tried to get to ice bar. we were late. it was raining. we got lost. we turned back and hung out with the cool kids at piano bar instead. Perfect end to a great, but rainy, weekend.
Met mom at her hotel yesterday morning to say goodbye...already miss her :( and im really sad about missing thanksgiving and the macys day parade. but its going to be that much better when i get home in 3 weeks. im still loving it here, but work is just getting tedious and boring. I'm over it. lol. its not the event planning i was looking for in the slightest, but its been an amazing experience. i just want to be free to explore london more now, since we have such little time left. have to live it up to the fullest. We're having an intern thanksgiving on Tuesday that I've been planning *the most event planning i've done since we've been here* and its going to rock your socks off. can't wait. Danielle and Scott's Families will be here this weekend so im sure that theres lots in store for everyone. Tomorrow Karaoke night...with Skuttle and his other half, Lohmeyer Number Two. Things are about to get a little musically crazy, i have a feeling.
Later gators
x Krista
I woke up at the ass crack of dawn and caught the first tube over to heathrow to go pick her up from the airport. I won't lie. I cried when I saw her. I took her to London and we made our first trip to Sainsbury's to get coffee and some breakfast. Then walked to work. And left her to roam Harrod's and Hyde Park. We had lunch and after work we came back to Richmond where she met all my friends and I showed her around. Then we went to whole foods so she could get the amazing experience of cheap huge salads with salmon. Mom made it an early night, but I went out to Kavanaugh's with the interns, and had a blast dancing the night away once again.
Friday we hit up the Big Bus Tour. Before hand, we stoppped off at the Apollo Victoria Theatre and I bought us tickets for Wicked :) The Big Bus Tour was awesome. We got to see a lot of sights that I haven't had a chance to see since I've been here. Big Ben, Parlaiment, Westminster Abbey, The Eye, etc...We sat on the top of the bus and it was open air and i got to video tape a bunch. We got a free river cruise out of it as well, which was fun. We went back to my room after because we hadn't eaten and were cranky, so we got something to eat and took a rest before Wicked that night. Wicked was amazing. Elphaba was incredible. Her voice amazes me. Didn't miss a note. Mom loved it. She was so happy. On our way home we went to Black and Blue on Gloucester, and got some dinner. It was really nice inside, and yummy. Chargrilled chicken ceasar salads for two...mmmm.
Saturday morning we ventured to Borough Market and Portabello Market. Lots of shopping was done. Christmas presents galore- Done. Unfortunately it started to get dark and cold really fast as we were walking Portabello, so we headed back and caught the Big Bus again. We hit up Buckingham Palace just so mom could see it, and check it off the list. We went back to her place and relaxed for a while. We were exhausted. Originally we had planned to head to the Piano Bar, but we both kind of died out by the afternoon. We went to Sainsbury's, bought some dinner and went back to her hotel room. We also bought a bottle of Asti and a carton of grapefruit juice and to make our own cocktails. For Sunday. Early to bed because we were both over tired and had another big day ahead of us. It was wonderful.
Sunday morning we went to Spitalfield Market, where i bought the coolest shirt ever. You all will either laugh or think its rockstar material. either way i paid an arm and a leg for it, and the girl is altering it for me, and im gonna pick it up this coming Sunday. Another excuse to go back to the East End :) After Spitalfields, we headed back home and stopped at Speakers' Corner. Unfortunately it was raining still so it wasn't too exciting. We hit up Oxford Street, and then came back home. We kind of had another night in, drank our Asti and then went to get dinner at Med Kitchen at like 10 pm. It was really really good. HUGE salmon steak, and bellinis. Thank god mom was footing the bill.
Monday was her last day. It was awful weather outside. But we braved it and i took her to my secret spot in Hyde Park to see the Cavalrey walk by. "We waited in the rain for that?...No! No! I mean, it was wonderful!" yeah. thanks mom. So we grabbed some coffee, then headed to Tower of London for the afternoon. On our way home mom had her first authentic English pub experience with her half pint of lager. so classy. We went back to her hotel and changed, and then made plans to go to the piano bar and ice bar. scott serenaded my mom with some classics. way to be. then we tried to get to ice bar. we were late. it was raining. we got lost. we turned back and hung out with the cool kids at piano bar instead. Perfect end to a great, but rainy, weekend.
Met mom at her hotel yesterday morning to say goodbye...already miss her :( and im really sad about missing thanksgiving and the macys day parade. but its going to be that much better when i get home in 3 weeks. im still loving it here, but work is just getting tedious and boring. I'm over it. lol. its not the event planning i was looking for in the slightest, but its been an amazing experience. i just want to be free to explore london more now, since we have such little time left. have to live it up to the fullest. We're having an intern thanksgiving on Tuesday that I've been planning *the most event planning i've done since we've been here* and its going to rock your socks off. can't wait. Danielle and Scott's Families will be here this weekend so im sure that theres lots in store for everyone. Tomorrow Karaoke night...with Skuttle and his other half, Lohmeyer Number Two. Things are about to get a little musically crazy, i have a feeling.
Later gators
x Krista
Saturday, November 17, 2007
I Found the Craic (Crack) In Eire
Ireland was absolutely amazing. Just beautiful. Very much like Scotland. Kelsey and I took a Shamrocker Tour, and went all along the west--South and back up to Dublin in 3 days. It was busy and tiring but ultimately incredible.
The stories I have to tell are just so extensive, so instead I'll bullet some highlighted events and destinations covered you can ask me about...
*Thursday we had an insane traveling day, almost missing our bus to Dublin and then our 12 and a half hour over night bus/ferry ride via National Express.
*Free breakfast at the Kinlay House Hostel
*Whiskey Brewery
*I won the whiskey identity taste competition and got a free bottle
*The Shannon River/Church yard
*Doolin for an over night in the cute farmhouse with Fecking awesome tshirts
*Doolin pub with a fiddle player, flute, and guitar...and then additional musicians that jumped in
*Irish Coffee
*Dingle Peninsula!
*Beach and splashing in the atlantic, in which Ireland claimed a part of my soul
*Leprecaun myths, faerie tales, and banshees
*Cliff Rock climbing
*Killarney, the town where no one sleeps
*Being sung to by an old drunken irish or dutch man in a santa suit, 'Pretty Woman'
*Asked by a 12 year old irish boy to do a packy run for him
*Dinner with the Shamrockers
*Pub Theatre
*My first *half* pint of Guinness
*Witnessing a man chug 3/4 of a pint in less than 10 seconds. not once, but three times.
*The Grand Hotel (pub/bar/disco)
*Dancing and being twirled by Sean my big sweaty drunken irish friend...'you have the prettiest smile', 'you have gorgeous hair', 'you're a great dancer'....wow. take it down a notch kiddo. I just wanted to twirl lol.
*Roaming the streets trying to find my irish drunk boy kiss....to no avail.
*CEREAL CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST WITH COFFEE <3
*Blarney Castle
*Making out with the Blarney Stone
*Shopping and spending way too much money (on other people), but getting my very own pretty Cladddah ring
*Dublin, where kids run the streets like wild animals.
*the LONG national rail bus/ferry ride home.
*almost losing my student oyster
It was an awesome weekend over all. Our Tour Guide rocked our faces and our bus driver was way awesome. I can't wait to go back
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
MIA Ten Days + But I'm Back in Black!
Wow. Sorry I haven't kept up with this at all in the past two weeks almost. So much has been going on and I've been so busy. Balancing a life in london, a life back in the states, with work, class, side trips/social life here, trying to maintain a social life with friends and family back home, as well as trying to sleep? It's tough lemme tell ya.
I guess I'll go back to after Paris...Halloween!!
Awesome costumes all around. I was Pippy Longstocking, or mistaken as Rainbow Bright. But it was the most comfortable costume EVER. loved it. We all headed to the Hard Rock Cafe London for this so called Monster Ball. It was like a high school dance, but we all still had a good time because we were all together. I had my first ever party foul, because our free 'witches brew' was in an icy cold glass, with a salted rim (give you one guess as to the main ingredient in that sucker.) the whole glass slipped out of my hand on the dance floor. I had little red splotches all over my legs the next morning. That grenadine can stain like none other apparently. We danced the night away and I made some awesome phone calls to some very special people. Number one being Jodie because it was technically her birthday UK time. Gave Sean a ring and then dialed up Mr. Dangelo. Who will be my next victim? I believe someone has a birthday this sunday ;)....watch out.
Went to a drinks going away party for Danielle's co-worker alex and got to mingle and meet a bunch of her other co-workers. that was a lot of fun. I got in a huge debate with one of her boss's and told him i thought that UK Take Away sandwich boxes were completely disgusting. Then we got into a debate and apparently he concluded that E wasn't bad. Crack, stay away from. Alcohol indulge in, and Coke try to avoid. (the topic began when we told him we had been to Fabric...that club back from first week i told you all about)
Saturday i got to explore Borough Market for the first time. Oh my god. My new favorite place. Its a HUGE food market. Everything is fresh, farm grown, or hand made. Fruits, veggies, meats, cheeses, pastries, chocolates, breads, jams, jellies, butters...you name it. It's there. Free samples all around. I got to have the most amazing warm apple cider, bought a huge bucket of cherry tomatoes for a pound, and then 1/4 bushel of english apples for 4 pounds. it was incredible. i think it will be our new saturday morning ritual. they even have a juice bar. with CRAZY combinations you would never even think of. its amazing. Betsy would be in heaven.
Saturday night we went to see fireworks at Battersea Park for Guy Faulkes Night (V for Vendetta anyone?) They were wicked cool. Afterward we ventured to Covent Garden, and ended up at the Belushi's there. The rest of the night is a story on its own. If you want the whole thing let me know. Otherwise it's not worth getting fired up about again. Let's just say i didn't get home until 9 am Sunday. Not a happy camper to say the least.
Over the next few days we were all going crazy with our huge final paper due for British Cultures. I was writing about how i think UK newspapers are a reflection of British Culture. We all were procrastinating like crazy and just gave up caring at one point. Monday Scott and I got to go to BBC (British Broadcasting Channel...the oldest broadcasting news station in the world and England's most prominent TV channel) it was awesome to get to go on a field trip. and the studio was really neat. HUGE. I got to fake-broadcast the news, it was pretty sick.
The rest of the week at work was relatively low key. I was busy preparing for Ireland as well (which will be a new post of its own very soon...) Kelsey and I left Thursday after I got out of work, and had an amazing time. Pictures are being posted as we speak.
My mom is coming Thursday, but technically leaving tomorrow US time. I can't wait. I'm so excited, so I've been busy scheduling how she can get here and preparing an itinerary and all the information she'll need while she's here. Should be talking to her any minute now to finalize everything. It should be a great weekend. I can't wait.
That's all for now. Ireland posting to come shortly. Lots of love <3
x Krista
I guess I'll go back to after Paris...Halloween!!
Awesome costumes all around. I was Pippy Longstocking, or mistaken as Rainbow Bright. But it was the most comfortable costume EVER. loved it. We all headed to the Hard Rock Cafe London for this so called Monster Ball. It was like a high school dance, but we all still had a good time because we were all together. I had my first ever party foul, because our free 'witches brew' was in an icy cold glass, with a salted rim (give you one guess as to the main ingredient in that sucker.) the whole glass slipped out of my hand on the dance floor. I had little red splotches all over my legs the next morning. That grenadine can stain like none other apparently. We danced the night away and I made some awesome phone calls to some very special people. Number one being Jodie because it was technically her birthday UK time. Gave Sean a ring and then dialed up Mr. Dangelo. Who will be my next victim? I believe someone has a birthday this sunday ;)....watch out.
Went to a drinks going away party for Danielle's co-worker alex and got to mingle and meet a bunch of her other co-workers. that was a lot of fun. I got in a huge debate with one of her boss's and told him i thought that UK Take Away sandwich boxes were completely disgusting. Then we got into a debate and apparently he concluded that E wasn't bad. Crack, stay away from. Alcohol indulge in, and Coke try to avoid. (the topic began when we told him we had been to Fabric...that club back from first week i told you all about)
Saturday i got to explore Borough Market for the first time. Oh my god. My new favorite place. Its a HUGE food market. Everything is fresh, farm grown, or hand made. Fruits, veggies, meats, cheeses, pastries, chocolates, breads, jams, jellies, butters...you name it. It's there. Free samples all around. I got to have the most amazing warm apple cider, bought a huge bucket of cherry tomatoes for a pound, and then 1/4 bushel of english apples for 4 pounds. it was incredible. i think it will be our new saturday morning ritual. they even have a juice bar. with CRAZY combinations you would never even think of. its amazing. Betsy would be in heaven.
Saturday night we went to see fireworks at Battersea Park for Guy Faulkes Night (V for Vendetta anyone?) They were wicked cool. Afterward we ventured to Covent Garden, and ended up at the Belushi's there. The rest of the night is a story on its own. If you want the whole thing let me know. Otherwise it's not worth getting fired up about again. Let's just say i didn't get home until 9 am Sunday. Not a happy camper to say the least.
Over the next few days we were all going crazy with our huge final paper due for British Cultures. I was writing about how i think UK newspapers are a reflection of British Culture. We all were procrastinating like crazy and just gave up caring at one point. Monday Scott and I got to go to BBC (British Broadcasting Channel...the oldest broadcasting news station in the world and England's most prominent TV channel) it was awesome to get to go on a field trip. and the studio was really neat. HUGE. I got to fake-broadcast the news, it was pretty sick.
The rest of the week at work was relatively low key. I was busy preparing for Ireland as well (which will be a new post of its own very soon...) Kelsey and I left Thursday after I got out of work, and had an amazing time. Pictures are being posted as we speak.
My mom is coming Thursday, but technically leaving tomorrow US time. I can't wait. I'm so excited, so I've been busy scheduling how she can get here and preparing an itinerary and all the information she'll need while she's here. Should be talking to her any minute now to finalize everything. It should be a great weekend. I can't wait.
That's all for now. Ireland posting to come shortly. Lots of love <3
x Krista
Saturday, November 3, 2007
J'adore Paris
Paris weekend with the interns 26th October-28th October was great. It was nice to all go on holiday together like one big happy family.
We took the a bus to waterloo from Gloucester, (very early in the morning...we all had our starbucks needless to say), then hopped on the EuroStar. Woot! It just felt like a normal train ride, except when you couldn't see anything because we were under water. Once we got to Paris, we took another bus to the Gare de Lyon / The Mercure Gare de Lyon which was another train station and also attached to the hotel we were staying at for the weekend. Very nice hotel, and quite different from being in a hostel.
We pretty much had the entire weekend to do whatever we wanted. Which we spent, wandering, sometimes getting a bit cranky, exploring, sightseeing, and shopping. Friday afternoon we found our way to Notre Dame Cathedral. Once again: Small F-ing World. Who do i come across? None other than the wonderful Catherine Rinaldi from URI. I saw a girl that I could have sworn was her, but tossed the idea away and didnt have the guts to randomly walk up to someone (in Paris mind you...) and see if it was her. However i probably kept creepily staring...a bit of facebooking when i got home and sure enough it was her. wow. unbelievable. you're never too far from home. On our way back, we found the f-ing Harry Potter Knight Bus. for real. it was AMAZING. and free!! it was sooo cool. the 7th book had debuted in France that day (i guess it takes that long to translate?) free posters and everything. totally made my weekend. friday night we went out to go get some grub, and it was happy hour. Rock on. mojitos, and someone got a strawberry mule. once again, for protection of reputation i won't mention his name. we all got french onion soup, but it is THE THING to have when youre in paris. it was amazing. scott and christie gave escargot a try, and said it was like shrimp or mussels and really garlicy. i wish i had gotten around to trying it. where was my can-do attitude and video camera on that one. slacker. we ended up on a road full of dive bars and clubs which was cool, but were too tired to go into any. so we popped in the local mini-mart and experimented with a few cheap champagnes, sparkling cider and cheap white wine. and brought it back to the hotel. we're classy like that.
saturday morning we hopped onto a bus tour with all the interns and that was fun to see most of the city and take a few photo ops at the eiffel tower, where i did cartwheels (in the mud) for a special someone. we ended at the louvre, and got to go there for free, which was really cool. Mona Lisa, as expected, was over rated. tons of people surrounding it from 50 feet away because its harder to get near than Fort Knox. Seriously, theres like 10 feet of glass protecting it on top of a 50 ft blockaded perameter. rediculous. but i got to see a lot of roman and greek sculptures, which were really neat. we also stopped by the oriental rug section haha. and i found the first starbucks to be found in France as we were leaving. but i refuse to pay 4.50 euros for a cup of coffee...Translation: $7 for a tall chai tea latte. no thanks. the rest of the afternoon was spent looking for some food, looking for a place to shop (which was never found and we just spent hours roaming around aimlessly and grumpy) and then we ended up at the eiffel tower to climb it :). However, i got in the wrong line and we had to take the lift. lame. AND they closed the top tier before i could get my ticket, and it was re-opening in merely an hour. i could have waited, but it was too late, and the group wouldnt want to wait too. so we took the lift, and it was beautiful. the lights went on right as we were on the second tier. it was gorgeous. i took the stairs down, because i thought the girls had left already...but apparently they hadn't and i was all alone at the base for about a half hour, kind of freaking out after the first 10 minutes. it was dark, and there are gypsies everywhere pickpocketing and trying to sell you things and scare the hell out of me. pushy and very forward. not cool. luckily i got ahold of danielle, and they made it down to rescue me finally. we met back up with the others and got some dinner at a cool family style restaurant. then came back to the room and finished some of the drinks from the night before and played the clap clap game. and watched Scrubs in french (briefly) before Dani chose to remain on the French version of American Idol 'Popstars'
Sunday was a better day. we got breakfast and headed off on the metro to Sac de Cure? A really big and beautiful church up on a hill. There was a painter's market and tons of cafes that we explored as well. We grabbed lunch at a little italian style bistro and I got a glass of vin chaude (hot wine) it was really cool. you add a bit of sugar and its like hot apple cider, but wine. We then walked down to the moulin rouge, which was on Sex St. USA pretty much. every porn shop, sex toy shop and "gentleman's club" you could think of. but we got to the moulin rouge (which is now apparently a restaurant) and took some provocative pics. thats how we roll. Then we headed back to the hotel, to meet up with the crew and head back to the UK.
Over all it was an awesome weekend but I was really glad to be back in London actually. I don't know why but Paris just didn't 'do-it' for me. It just wasnt exactly what I expected. Don't get me wrong. It was awesome because we had a holiday weekend together and it was Paris. But I don't think I'd ever want to live there. It was nice to visit, but didn't live up to expectations unfortunately. Ireland won't let me down I'm hoping. Woot. Can't wait.
We took the a bus to waterloo from Gloucester, (very early in the morning...we all had our starbucks needless to say), then hopped on the EuroStar. Woot! It just felt like a normal train ride, except when you couldn't see anything because we were under water. Once we got to Paris, we took another bus to the Gare de Lyon / The Mercure Gare de Lyon which was another train station and also attached to the hotel we were staying at for the weekend. Very nice hotel, and quite different from being in a hostel.
We pretty much had the entire weekend to do whatever we wanted. Which we spent, wandering, sometimes getting a bit cranky, exploring, sightseeing, and shopping. Friday afternoon we found our way to Notre Dame Cathedral. Once again: Small F-ing World. Who do i come across? None other than the wonderful Catherine Rinaldi from URI. I saw a girl that I could have sworn was her, but tossed the idea away and didnt have the guts to randomly walk up to someone (in Paris mind you...) and see if it was her. However i probably kept creepily staring...a bit of facebooking when i got home and sure enough it was her. wow. unbelievable. you're never too far from home. On our way back, we found the f-ing Harry Potter Knight Bus. for real. it was AMAZING. and free!! it was sooo cool. the 7th book had debuted in France that day (i guess it takes that long to translate?) free posters and everything. totally made my weekend. friday night we went out to go get some grub, and it was happy hour. Rock on. mojitos, and someone got a strawberry mule. once again, for protection of reputation i won't mention his name. we all got french onion soup, but it is THE THING to have when youre in paris. it was amazing. scott and christie gave escargot a try, and said it was like shrimp or mussels and really garlicy. i wish i had gotten around to trying it. where was my can-do attitude and video camera on that one. slacker. we ended up on a road full of dive bars and clubs which was cool, but were too tired to go into any. so we popped in the local mini-mart and experimented with a few cheap champagnes, sparkling cider and cheap white wine. and brought it back to the hotel. we're classy like that.
saturday morning we hopped onto a bus tour with all the interns and that was fun to see most of the city and take a few photo ops at the eiffel tower, where i did cartwheels (in the mud) for a special someone. we ended at the louvre, and got to go there for free, which was really cool. Mona Lisa, as expected, was over rated. tons of people surrounding it from 50 feet away because its harder to get near than Fort Knox. Seriously, theres like 10 feet of glass protecting it on top of a 50 ft blockaded perameter. rediculous. but i got to see a lot of roman and greek sculptures, which were really neat. we also stopped by the oriental rug section haha. and i found the first starbucks to be found in France as we were leaving. but i refuse to pay 4.50 euros for a cup of coffee...Translation: $7 for a tall chai tea latte. no thanks. the rest of the afternoon was spent looking for some food, looking for a place to shop (which was never found and we just spent hours roaming around aimlessly and grumpy) and then we ended up at the eiffel tower to climb it :). However, i got in the wrong line and we had to take the lift. lame. AND they closed the top tier before i could get my ticket, and it was re-opening in merely an hour. i could have waited, but it was too late, and the group wouldnt want to wait too. so we took the lift, and it was beautiful. the lights went on right as we were on the second tier. it was gorgeous. i took the stairs down, because i thought the girls had left already...but apparently they hadn't and i was all alone at the base for about a half hour, kind of freaking out after the first 10 minutes. it was dark, and there are gypsies everywhere pickpocketing and trying to sell you things and scare the hell out of me. pushy and very forward. not cool. luckily i got ahold of danielle, and they made it down to rescue me finally. we met back up with the others and got some dinner at a cool family style restaurant. then came back to the room and finished some of the drinks from the night before and played the clap clap game. and watched Scrubs in french (briefly) before Dani chose to remain on the French version of American Idol 'Popstars'
Sunday was a better day. we got breakfast and headed off on the metro to Sac de Cure? A really big and beautiful church up on a hill. There was a painter's market and tons of cafes that we explored as well. We grabbed lunch at a little italian style bistro and I got a glass of vin chaude (hot wine) it was really cool. you add a bit of sugar and its like hot apple cider, but wine. We then walked down to the moulin rouge, which was on Sex St. USA pretty much. every porn shop, sex toy shop and "gentleman's club" you could think of. but we got to the moulin rouge (which is now apparently a restaurant) and took some provocative pics. thats how we roll. Then we headed back to the hotel, to meet up with the crew and head back to the UK.
Over all it was an awesome weekend but I was really glad to be back in London actually. I don't know why but Paris just didn't 'do-it' for me. It just wasnt exactly what I expected. Don't get me wrong. It was awesome because we had a holiday weekend together and it was Paris. But I don't think I'd ever want to live there. It was nice to visit, but didn't live up to expectations unfortunately. Ireland won't let me down I'm hoping. Woot. Can't wait.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Playing Catch Up
Wow. haven't had time to write here in a while (other than venting about rent recently)
Much has happened in the past week or so. We'll start with last weekend I suppose.
Rent Remixed. You know how i feel about that. no need to go any father.
Last Wednesday was the Laying Up Dinner...marks the "end" of the sailing season. kind of crazy table plans because the vice commodor's wife kept changing everything on us which was entirely annoying. Finally got to feel event oriented though, helping annabel sort through the mess the woman caused literally minutes before we were supposed to be seating guests. once the dinner started it was nuts. i didnt know how to behave really, so i was observing everyone else and didnt make a move until i saw someone else make the first move. the three course meal...or four course meal? three rounds of wine...sets of silverware...conversation to be held with complete strangers sitting next to me. it was intense. but still an awesome experience. learning social skills is probably the best thing i can acquire from this job. which will be really helpful in the future.
thursday we kind of recouped and searched around for christmas party venues online. we went out to this little italian place down the road for dani's birthday. Yay for 22!! it was quite yummy. risotto was pretty darn good.
friday was the day of fun. venue searched online pretty much all day because annabel was in calpe for the regatta. jonathan and i went to this little hole in the wall pub after work, and i met up with danielle afterward. we ran around trying to find little pieces for our halloween costumes, because we were throwing dani a halloween costume birthday party that night with all the intern girls. It was awesome. Pocohontas made an appearance, britney spears, the emo kid hiding in the corner of the TBS concert, and i was a walk of shame thanks to ashley's free condoms from work and her awesome lacross shorts :) it was one of the best nights ever. mattress surfing into the third floor (pretty much our entire dorm was gone because they all had fall break. and we're interns so we still have to work). the dirtiest game of kings ever. and lots of laughs. <3 these girls.
saturday...what did i do saturday...shopping! went to lillie whites to get a jersey, then came back home and got ready for the Rugby World Cup *pretty much the superbowl for the UK/rest of the world*. It was just plain awesome. we went to the greyhound and staked out a spot at like...4:30. sat there all afternoon and caught the manchester united game, which was a sweep. then the cup began. fans were awesome. asked two girls if they would paint my face, and made new friends haha. too bad the game got kind of lame second half, and it was so flipping hot in the pub. i almost fell asleep. wait...yup, did kind of drift off for 30 seconds at one point. We lost :( but its all good. England is still second best, and will try again for the title next year.
Sunday was another day of shopping. Danielle and I took to oxford street and made a clean sweep of Primark and couple other little shops. Very proud of our quality purchases. I got my Pippy Longstocking costume and danielle got about 4 pairs of shoes. :) and we were home in time for dinner. well done. well done.
Monday-Thursday were boring for the most part. Monday however, Scott and I met Danielle for lunch and went to a cute little cafe near her work. I registered for classes which was a beast and a half but at least i'm enrolled still lol. nothing too exciting at work. in reality theres absolutely nothing exciting at work. started to get things together for Paris :) very exciting.
finally talked to Mom thursday night, released lots of frustrations. filled her in on my MIA week because i was so busy as was she. Ireland trip with Kelsey is finally booked. Absolutely cannot wait for that. it will honestly be the trip of a lifetime from what i'm hearing from other kids that have gone. i'm super stoaked. totally learning to irish jig with some of the irish boys at the pub and kissing the blarney stone. heck yes. cant wait.
Got home from Paris tonight. Will have another post about the weekend. Good to be back in the UK...funny how i missed "home."
Wrote a bagillion and one post cards. Check your mail box if youre lucky. (and i have your address) ;)
x <3 Krista
Much has happened in the past week or so. We'll start with last weekend I suppose.
Rent Remixed. You know how i feel about that. no need to go any father.
Last Wednesday was the Laying Up Dinner...marks the "end" of the sailing season. kind of crazy table plans because the vice commodor's wife kept changing everything on us which was entirely annoying. Finally got to feel event oriented though, helping annabel sort through the mess the woman caused literally minutes before we were supposed to be seating guests. once the dinner started it was nuts. i didnt know how to behave really, so i was observing everyone else and didnt make a move until i saw someone else make the first move. the three course meal...or four course meal? three rounds of wine...sets of silverware...conversation to be held with complete strangers sitting next to me. it was intense. but still an awesome experience. learning social skills is probably the best thing i can acquire from this job. which will be really helpful in the future.
thursday we kind of recouped and searched around for christmas party venues online. we went out to this little italian place down the road for dani's birthday. Yay for 22!! it was quite yummy. risotto was pretty darn good.
friday was the day of fun. venue searched online pretty much all day because annabel was in calpe for the regatta. jonathan and i went to this little hole in the wall pub after work, and i met up with danielle afterward. we ran around trying to find little pieces for our halloween costumes, because we were throwing dani a halloween costume birthday party that night with all the intern girls. It was awesome. Pocohontas made an appearance, britney spears, the emo kid hiding in the corner of the TBS concert, and i was a walk of shame thanks to ashley's free condoms from work and her awesome lacross shorts :) it was one of the best nights ever. mattress surfing into the third floor (pretty much our entire dorm was gone because they all had fall break. and we're interns so we still have to work). the dirtiest game of kings ever. and lots of laughs. <3 these girls.
saturday...what did i do saturday...shopping! went to lillie whites to get a jersey, then came back home and got ready for the Rugby World Cup *pretty much the superbowl for the UK/rest of the world*. It was just plain awesome. we went to the greyhound and staked out a spot at like...4:30. sat there all afternoon and caught the manchester united game, which was a sweep. then the cup began. fans were awesome. asked two girls if they would paint my face, and made new friends haha. too bad the game got kind of lame second half, and it was so flipping hot in the pub. i almost fell asleep. wait...yup, did kind of drift off for 30 seconds at one point. We lost :( but its all good. England is still second best, and will try again for the title next year.
Sunday was another day of shopping. Danielle and I took to oxford street and made a clean sweep of Primark and couple other little shops. Very proud of our quality purchases. I got my Pippy Longstocking costume and danielle got about 4 pairs of shoes. :) and we were home in time for dinner. well done. well done.
Monday-Thursday were boring for the most part. Monday however, Scott and I met Danielle for lunch and went to a cute little cafe near her work. I registered for classes which was a beast and a half but at least i'm enrolled still lol. nothing too exciting at work. in reality theres absolutely nothing exciting at work. started to get things together for Paris :) very exciting.
finally talked to Mom thursday night, released lots of frustrations. filled her in on my MIA week because i was so busy as was she. Ireland trip with Kelsey is finally booked. Absolutely cannot wait for that. it will honestly be the trip of a lifetime from what i'm hearing from other kids that have gone. i'm super stoaked. totally learning to irish jig with some of the irish boys at the pub and kissing the blarney stone. heck yes. cant wait.
Got home from Paris tonight. Will have another post about the weekend. Good to be back in the UK...funny how i missed "home."
Wrote a bagillion and one post cards. Check your mail box if youre lucky. (and i have your address) ;)
x <3 Krista
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Rent Remixed : "Can it get any gayer?"
Alright. I promised myself I wouldn't go off an a huge tangent and i'm wicked tired, so i dont have the patience to sit here and tell you everything that went wrong with this performance.
However, i have to vent it out in some way shape or form. first let me start by saying, we got tickets to the opening night of Rent Remix...pretty much some asshole decided to take Rent, and change the music and format to fit the London audience because the originally bombed here years ago. We got there, and were waiting in line and just looking at the posters outside i wanted to scream. Joanne - White blonde with big boobs. Maureen - white blonde with big boobs. Angel- White boy, with no hair. Mimi- white anerexic red head, with no voice, and no acting talent AT ALL. Mark- oh my god, don't get me started. Abercrombie Model, with huge lips and a huge Joker mouth and the worst characterization i've ever seen. no glasses. no scarf. no old time camera...ugh i can't handle this...i tried to block it out of my head.
In a nutshell it was god awful. Pretty much, the director RUINED everything. he basically put the movie version on the stage, and redid all of the original music and formatted it into this horrid arrangement filled with Pop, Duwop, techno and Jazzblues. It was AWFUL.
The actors had absolutely no chemistry. Collins and Roger had the best portrayels of their characters, but didn't have much to work off of with the rest of the cast. Half the Brits were trying to out sing each other. it seemed like they had no idea what they were singing about, why they were saying certain things to one another and had just awful interpretations of Johnathon Larson's masterpiece. RUINED. I was honestly sitting with my arms crossed and slouched in my chair. we had 3rd or 4th row seats. great view, nice theatre. AWFUL AWFUL AWFUL.
There was no passion, no understanding, and just a big misinterpretation of the entire play. themes extremely stressed throughout the entire play, very tacky and very disrespectfully: homosexuality, aids, Sex. Sex. Sex. yes, those themes lie within the play, but by dressing Angel in a skin tight belly shirt displaying an original american flag with 13 stars in a circle, and the DARE logo slashed through it....accompanied by his sequined jean jacket with "ANGEL" laid out in diamond studs on back. Are you kidding me.
I wanted to push mimi off the stage. she looked so uncomfortable. sand with her hands and just looking out at the balconies with everything she sang or said. which is what nearly all of them did. like i said. there was NO chemistry, no interaction. HORRIBLE blocking. oh my god. i can't talk about this anymore. and im sure you dont want to read about it.
I can justify all of my critisms now though. and it was well worth the 23 pounds. Ugh. Othello with Ewan McGreggor will make up for it <3
xox Krista
However, i have to vent it out in some way shape or form. first let me start by saying, we got tickets to the opening night of Rent Remix...pretty much some asshole decided to take Rent, and change the music and format to fit the London audience because the originally bombed here years ago. We got there, and were waiting in line and just looking at the posters outside i wanted to scream. Joanne - White blonde with big boobs. Maureen - white blonde with big boobs. Angel- White boy, with no hair. Mimi- white anerexic red head, with no voice, and no acting talent AT ALL. Mark- oh my god, don't get me started. Abercrombie Model, with huge lips and a huge Joker mouth and the worst characterization i've ever seen. no glasses. no scarf. no old time camera...ugh i can't handle this...i tried to block it out of my head.
In a nutshell it was god awful. Pretty much, the director RUINED everything. he basically put the movie version on the stage, and redid all of the original music and formatted it into this horrid arrangement filled with Pop, Duwop, techno and Jazzblues. It was AWFUL.
The actors had absolutely no chemistry. Collins and Roger had the best portrayels of their characters, but didn't have much to work off of with the rest of the cast. Half the Brits were trying to out sing each other. it seemed like they had no idea what they were singing about, why they were saying certain things to one another and had just awful interpretations of Johnathon Larson's masterpiece. RUINED. I was honestly sitting with my arms crossed and slouched in my chair. we had 3rd or 4th row seats. great view, nice theatre. AWFUL AWFUL AWFUL.
There was no passion, no understanding, and just a big misinterpretation of the entire play. themes extremely stressed throughout the entire play, very tacky and very disrespectfully: homosexuality, aids, Sex. Sex. Sex. yes, those themes lie within the play, but by dressing Angel in a skin tight belly shirt displaying an original american flag with 13 stars in a circle, and the DARE logo slashed through it....accompanied by his sequined jean jacket with "ANGEL" laid out in diamond studs on back. Are you kidding me.
I wanted to push mimi off the stage. she looked so uncomfortable. sand with her hands and just looking out at the balconies with everything she sang or said. which is what nearly all of them did. like i said. there was NO chemistry, no interaction. HORRIBLE blocking. oh my god. i can't talk about this anymore. and im sure you dont want to read about it.
I can justify all of my critisms now though. and it was well worth the 23 pounds. Ugh. Othello with Ewan McGreggor will make up for it <3
xox Krista
Monday, October 15, 2007
Abbey Road: Risking Lives for "The Photo"
Saturday we went on a Beatles walking tour. the tour was alright, but pictures at abbey road were fun. I ran into the median, and stood on the edge of a statue, and after three tries got the crew in the perfect abbey road shot. scott took his shoes off, and was in his element entirely. after seeing just a few sites and stuff of beatles locations in london i think it would be way cooler to go to liverpool. possible day trip in the future? hmmm...
saturday night the boys and i searched out for a pub to watch the rugby game and grab dinner. unfortunately zetland arms was packed, as expected. So we ate lebaneese at Beirut Express. ha. then we pub crawled our way back to the greyhound, where ash met up with us, and we were all drenched in spilling beer, english chants and sad faced frenchies. COME ON ENGLAND! we're in the finals. i'm so pumped. it was pandamonium. i can't wait till the next game. we're getting prime seats somewhere, and living up the spirit and madness.
yesterday was dedicated to accomplishing those awful tasks such as laundry (took me 3 hours aprox....) and catching up on homework. booked a day trip to belgium in dec, for a bit of christmas shopping and lights and christmas cheer. that will be fun! still working on ireland. haha. talked to maja :) shes coming the third weekend in november. pretty stoaked about that. too bad britty can't come :( I have class in 5 minutes, then its off to work for the day, and possibly Rent Remixed try number two since last friday was "press night" and we couldn't get tickets. I'm sure ill have a mouthfull to say after this experience.
later gators
<3 Krista
saturday night the boys and i searched out for a pub to watch the rugby game and grab dinner. unfortunately zetland arms was packed, as expected. So we ate lebaneese at Beirut Express. ha. then we pub crawled our way back to the greyhound, where ash met up with us, and we were all drenched in spilling beer, english chants and sad faced frenchies. COME ON ENGLAND! we're in the finals. i'm so pumped. it was pandamonium. i can't wait till the next game. we're getting prime seats somewhere, and living up the spirit and madness.
yesterday was dedicated to accomplishing those awful tasks such as laundry (took me 3 hours aprox....) and catching up on homework. booked a day trip to belgium in dec, for a bit of christmas shopping and lights and christmas cheer. that will be fun! still working on ireland. haha. talked to maja :) shes coming the third weekend in november. pretty stoaked about that. too bad britty can't come :( I have class in 5 minutes, then its off to work for the day, and possibly Rent Remixed try number two since last friday was "press night" and we couldn't get tickets. I'm sure ill have a mouthfull to say after this experience.
later gators
<3 Krista
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Koko -mo?
woot! the week is over :) That means it's time to play catch up. I have loads to do. Literally, loads of laundry that have piled up. my hamper doesn't fit under my bed anymore. i sure hope its warm today because i dont have any pants.
the work week is over :) friday was kind of cool. went to get sushi for lunch, which was awesome. then it was more of a laid back day at work. busy, but everyone was excited for the weekend. i started looking into this thing called Race Night, for the spring. Think themed-dinner, like a murder mystery type of thing, but with horseracing and betting.
Went to this venue/club/bar Koko last night. Awesome. As per usual Scott's work hooked us up. VIP guest listed, so no cover and no line. This place was amazing. Minus the disgusting floor because no one can seem to hold onto their drinks. But the venue was honestly incredible. HUGE disco ball descending from the ceiling, and like....4 or 5 floors of balcony look outs overlooking the main stage/screen and open air dance floor. it was redic. The Alones also put on a good show. I was into them. I might have a crush on the lead...he had my black chucks on. and his pants weren't groping his ass. always a possitive. Once again, on the way home, the Knight Bus decided to pass us by the first time, so we had to wait for another half hour in camden town before 27 decided to show its face. We all then proceeded to line the pavement, swinging our jackets and scarves, ready to jump in front if it didnt pick us up. It did stop though for any of you concerned of my well being.
Getting my laundry done hopefully at some point. Gym/swimming. Errand running. working on my magazine article/s (?) i have to write. ugh. Joy. Also have to start planning when i'm hitting the road to ireland, my mom's life when she comes to visit and discover if i can find ben carter on a jukebox in a random pub in Bristol. Paris is in two weeks! Holy wow. It's gonna be a bon weekend as Lars would say.
Tonight is one of the final matches of the World Cup for rugby. Oh my god. I'm so excited. England vs. France. it's going to be sick. We have to kick their ass, or there will be some sad faces at work monday. I mean, we beat Australia....We HAVE to beat France.
ps) I talked to my lover today for the first time in a month and a half. and by talked i mean she typed to me, while i was skyping her. Victoria berger, get a headset so i can hear your beautiful voice. Also note: Aly Keves knows everyone. (i miss you aly) She apparently is good friends/used to work with Josh, the Ra Ra Riots manager we met the other night. You never cease to amaze me. even over seas. :)
Cheers kids!
<3 Krista
the work week is over :) friday was kind of cool. went to get sushi for lunch, which was awesome. then it was more of a laid back day at work. busy, but everyone was excited for the weekend. i started looking into this thing called Race Night, for the spring. Think themed-dinner, like a murder mystery type of thing, but with horseracing and betting.
Went to this venue/club/bar Koko last night. Awesome. As per usual Scott's work hooked us up. VIP guest listed, so no cover and no line. This place was amazing. Minus the disgusting floor because no one can seem to hold onto their drinks. But the venue was honestly incredible. HUGE disco ball descending from the ceiling, and like....4 or 5 floors of balcony look outs overlooking the main stage/screen and open air dance floor. it was redic. The Alones also put on a good show. I was into them. I might have a crush on the lead...he had my black chucks on. and his pants weren't groping his ass. always a possitive. Once again, on the way home, the Knight Bus decided to pass us by the first time, so we had to wait for another half hour in camden town before 27 decided to show its face. We all then proceeded to line the pavement, swinging our jackets and scarves, ready to jump in front if it didnt pick us up. It did stop though for any of you concerned of my well being.
Getting my laundry done hopefully at some point. Gym/swimming. Errand running. working on my magazine article/s (?) i have to write. ugh. Joy. Also have to start planning when i'm hitting the road to ireland, my mom's life when she comes to visit and discover if i can find ben carter on a jukebox in a random pub in Bristol. Paris is in two weeks! Holy wow. It's gonna be a bon weekend as Lars would say.
Tonight is one of the final matches of the World Cup for rugby. Oh my god. I'm so excited. England vs. France. it's going to be sick. We have to kick their ass, or there will be some sad faces at work monday. I mean, we beat Australia....We HAVE to beat France.
ps) I talked to my lover today for the first time in a month and a half. and by talked i mean she typed to me, while i was skyping her. Victoria berger, get a headset so i can hear your beautiful voice. Also note: Aly Keves knows everyone. (i miss you aly) She apparently is good friends/used to work with Josh, the Ra Ra Riots manager we met the other night. You never cease to amaze me. even over seas. :)
Cheers kids!
<3 Krista
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Busier Than A Bee
I can't believe it's already the second week of October. wow.
Friday night was a definite milestone. Interns night out after the first week of work. Just a preview for our Paris trip together at the end of the month. In a nutshell it was rediculously amazing. We ended up at kavanagh's...met the queen's regement (the british cavalry boys) danced...sang...snogged in the corner. on the dance floor. at the bar. in the corner again*coughashcough*....(yes, i just used a harry potter word. what?) it was good fun though. definitely more chill than thursdays. less people, more conversation and interaction with other kids there. big plus.
saturday i was kind of sick. yeah...not fun. signed up for Ethos Gym :) yay.
Sunday though, sunday was awesome. i went down to the Thames, and found my way to the Globe, but couldnt get a tour bc there was a current performance. no biggee...went to the Tate Modern Museum of Art instead and walked around there by myself, which was nice and relaxing. im an art geek as you may know. saw a few Andy Warhol's, jackson pallock's...always a pleasure. :) i took a stroll along the river walk and grabbed some dinner...then waited for the crew to get there so we could go see our show 'Love's Labours Lost' at 4. Wow, talk about an awesome experience. We were groundlings for a few hours. The backpain was worth it. The costumes, the acting, the gorgeous irish chap playing one of the leads...it was all incredible.
This week at work has been busy. We have a lot of work to do on the Prizewinners' Dinner coming up, for all the yachters and sailors who have won races, rallies, etc over the past year with the club. Today Jonathan and I spent nearly the whole day sorting out the trophies to take down to Harvey's to get engraved. I got to go on my first london cabbie ride. sweet. I also dropped part of a trophy and nearly broke the bloody thing, and it turns out it was worth 3000 quid (pounds). I wanted to cry. So embarassed. but everythings alright. water under the bridge.
Last night i went to see The Editors and the Ra Ra Riots (who are actually from syracuse) They were pretty sick. the crowd over here obviously LOVES the Editors, and went nuts for them. Scott's work got us in backstage and vip, so that was wicked cool too. felt almost like i was back home working a show. except no load in or load out :-D Talked briefly with the rarariots manager, and one of the guys in the band. they seem really chill and i think we should look into them maybe in the spring or something. they're very different. electric cello and violin girls, and then a typical four guy set as well, bass-guitar-drums-lead/piano. really really cool new sound. mix of indie almost ska, but not. it was like sublime meets yellowcard meets academy is... ish. haha.
I'm exhausted and a little cranky because i havent had time to run a bunch of errands i need to get on top of. but thats life. i feel like im getting back into the busy body swing of things again. I'm extremely jealous im missing out on this amazing weather you kids are having back in the states right now. you all better be at the beach soaking it up for me. i think in the next few days im going to compile a list of things i miss most, and i want you to use that as a check list to make sure you take advantage of and do in my honour.
I love you all and miss you more.
<3 Krista
Friday night was a definite milestone. Interns night out after the first week of work. Just a preview for our Paris trip together at the end of the month. In a nutshell it was rediculously amazing. We ended up at kavanagh's...met the queen's regement (the british cavalry boys) danced...sang...snogged in the corner. on the dance floor. at the bar. in the corner again*coughashcough*....(yes, i just used a harry potter word. what?) it was good fun though. definitely more chill than thursdays. less people, more conversation and interaction with other kids there. big plus.
saturday i was kind of sick. yeah...not fun. signed up for Ethos Gym :) yay.
Sunday though, sunday was awesome. i went down to the Thames, and found my way to the Globe, but couldnt get a tour bc there was a current performance. no biggee...went to the Tate Modern Museum of Art instead and walked around there by myself, which was nice and relaxing. im an art geek as you may know. saw a few Andy Warhol's, jackson pallock's...always a pleasure. :) i took a stroll along the river walk and grabbed some dinner...then waited for the crew to get there so we could go see our show 'Love's Labours Lost' at 4. Wow, talk about an awesome experience. We were groundlings for a few hours. The backpain was worth it. The costumes, the acting, the gorgeous irish chap playing one of the leads...it was all incredible.
This week at work has been busy. We have a lot of work to do on the Prizewinners' Dinner coming up, for all the yachters and sailors who have won races, rallies, etc over the past year with the club. Today Jonathan and I spent nearly the whole day sorting out the trophies to take down to Harvey's to get engraved. I got to go on my first london cabbie ride. sweet. I also dropped part of a trophy and nearly broke the bloody thing, and it turns out it was worth 3000 quid (pounds). I wanted to cry. So embarassed. but everythings alright. water under the bridge.
Last night i went to see The Editors and the Ra Ra Riots (who are actually from syracuse) They were pretty sick. the crowd over here obviously LOVES the Editors, and went nuts for them. Scott's work got us in backstage and vip, so that was wicked cool too. felt almost like i was back home working a show. except no load in or load out :-D Talked briefly with the rarariots manager, and one of the guys in the band. they seem really chill and i think we should look into them maybe in the spring or something. they're very different. electric cello and violin girls, and then a typical four guy set as well, bass-guitar-drums-lead/piano. really really cool new sound. mix of indie almost ska, but not. it was like sublime meets yellowcard meets academy is... ish. haha.
I'm exhausted and a little cranky because i havent had time to run a bunch of errands i need to get on top of. but thats life. i feel like im getting back into the busy body swing of things again. I'm extremely jealous im missing out on this amazing weather you kids are having back in the states right now. you all better be at the beach soaking it up for me. i think in the next few days im going to compile a list of things i miss most, and i want you to use that as a check list to make sure you take advantage of and do in my honour.
I love you all and miss you more.
<3 Krista
Friday, October 5, 2007
Birthdays!! Yay!
Week one: DONE.
i really am liking the RTYC. today annabel was out because shes on holiday in france till monday afternoon. so i had a lot of phone calls to make, and stuff to take care of for her and jonathan. nothing major, but definitely kept busy. we also get out at 4 on fridays which is quite nice. :)
breaking news: so apparently some guy stole/replicated our club credit card, and made a few purchases over the course of the past few weeks. he then proceeded to have these purchases delivered to the RTYC...and on top of that had the balls to show up and try to claim them. so all week has been slightly exciting because we've been trying to catch the crook. yesterday we got him, so the scandal is finalized. but kind of funny to remember for my first week starting.
Wednesday after work, annabel, jonathan and i went down to visit george, the bartender, before we had a mini- YM cocktail party (which is what i went to back in september) this time it was much smaller, and intimate with the newer members that were there and it was really nice chatting with them. George debuted his new concoction "El Diablo" (the devil) delicious.
i also forgot to mention another perk to my job. every other morning i get to see the royal cavelry walk past my window as they are passing through hyde park to get to buckingham palace for the changing of the guards. honestly, sometimes i feel like im living in a fairy tale when i see stuff like that out my window.
Last night was Kelsey's birthday bonanza! (which hopefully will continue on through this weekend.) I bought a community crown, to pass along the tradition, and gave it to her at breakfast. after work we came back and ate dinner. Then we got dressed up and went to Kavanagh's...where apparently the rest of the Kensington community decided to go for the night. imperial freshers (new students?) had a pub crawl and that was one of the main destinations i guess. it was massively packed. rediculous. but fun. i also learned that i need to take certain people out of my uk cell phone book. because some late nights are gonna get me in trouble if i don't watch my pre-paid minutes. (sry about that/the yelling btw. but we're still in a fight. no excuses.)
my internet connection on my computer is being a biznit, so i wont be online much until i get it back. sunday? fingers crossed.
and to finish off this latest update: I GOT MY IMPERIAL ID- which means i can FINALLY go sign up for a gym membership!!!!!! i'm stoaked. end of story.
<3 Krista
i really am liking the RTYC. today annabel was out because shes on holiday in france till monday afternoon. so i had a lot of phone calls to make, and stuff to take care of for her and jonathan. nothing major, but definitely kept busy. we also get out at 4 on fridays which is quite nice. :)
breaking news: so apparently some guy stole/replicated our club credit card, and made a few purchases over the course of the past few weeks. he then proceeded to have these purchases delivered to the RTYC...and on top of that had the balls to show up and try to claim them. so all week has been slightly exciting because we've been trying to catch the crook. yesterday we got him, so the scandal is finalized. but kind of funny to remember for my first week starting.
Wednesday after work, annabel, jonathan and i went down to visit george, the bartender, before we had a mini- YM cocktail party (which is what i went to back in september) this time it was much smaller, and intimate with the newer members that were there and it was really nice chatting with them. George debuted his new concoction "El Diablo" (the devil) delicious.
i also forgot to mention another perk to my job. every other morning i get to see the royal cavelry walk past my window as they are passing through hyde park to get to buckingham palace for the changing of the guards. honestly, sometimes i feel like im living in a fairy tale when i see stuff like that out my window.
Last night was Kelsey's birthday bonanza! (which hopefully will continue on through this weekend.) I bought a community crown, to pass along the tradition, and gave it to her at breakfast. after work we came back and ate dinner. Then we got dressed up and went to Kavanagh's...where apparently the rest of the Kensington community decided to go for the night. imperial freshers (new students?) had a pub crawl and that was one of the main destinations i guess. it was massively packed. rediculous. but fun. i also learned that i need to take certain people out of my uk cell phone book. because some late nights are gonna get me in trouble if i don't watch my pre-paid minutes. (sry about that/the yelling btw. but we're still in a fight. no excuses.)
my internet connection on my computer is being a biznit, so i wont be online much until i get it back. sunday? fingers crossed.
and to finish off this latest update: I GOT MY IMPERIAL ID- which means i can FINALLY go sign up for a gym membership!!!!!! i'm stoaked. end of story.
<3 Krista
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
DASHBOARD IN THE UK?!
Day Two of work took off with a bang. I faced the misting rain and just walked because I am getting restless STILL not having a pass to a gym. Another day at the office, still fun just doing random tasks to check off the major To-Do Lists of Annabel and Jonathon. It's wicked because the horses and "Queen's Men" trot by all dressed for the changing of the guard everyday, on their way to Buckingham Palace. They go right by our window, so it was so cool to see/hear them trot along the cobblestones.
Major excitement went underway as of last night. Motion City Soundtrack will be here Friday, and I'm gonna try to go if I can find a buddy/the venue isn't too far. Then ben showed me that say anything will be here in december, which is also awesome, so i definitely need to look into that. this all led me to looking up other shows and as of when i left the states, dashboard was NOT posting anything about uk places. HOWEVERRRR. last night i found that he's gonna be about and around all these different towns in the UK from like the end of November until early December. How stoaked am i? in a word. VERY.
possibly joining Dani to see the new pornographers show thursday night. (its another band mom...not something gross) not sure yet. im on the fence still.
<3 Krista
Major excitement went underway as of last night. Motion City Soundtrack will be here Friday, and I'm gonna try to go if I can find a buddy/the venue isn't too far. Then ben showed me that say anything will be here in december, which is also awesome, so i definitely need to look into that. this all led me to looking up other shows and as of when i left the states, dashboard was NOT posting anything about uk places. HOWEVERRRR. last night i found that he's gonna be about and around all these different towns in the UK from like the end of November until early December. How stoaked am i? in a word. VERY.
possibly joining Dani to see the new pornographers show thursday night. (its another band mom...not something gross) not sure yet. im on the fence still.
<3 Krista
Monday, October 1, 2007
The RTYC
First day for the internship!! Woot!
Got there at 1:30ish, in the pouring rain. Not fun. But, never the less, met Anabel, my boss pretty much, and she took me around giving introductions and a tour of the yacht club. It's so nice, and everyone seems so friendly. It's a great environment.
I have a desk. ha! Between my other boss Johnathon and Anabel, and in front of us is this huge bay window that directly overlooks Hyde Park. It's fantastic. Too bad the weather was crap today. I just did a bunch of random things, like getting phone numbers/emails and stuff like that from a bunch of members so we can send out invitations to this huge annual Prize Winners Dinner, where the Trophy winners from each of the regattas, rally's, races, etc all gather with other members and have this huge celebration. So that is our main planning project at the time. Not too much else went on today, and I'm laying low tonight most likely since the weather is rubbish. Shower, tea, outfit- picking, hanging out with cools kids...I really need to go grocery shopping but not until there's a bit better weather. Until tomorrow-
<3 Krista
Got there at 1:30ish, in the pouring rain. Not fun. But, never the less, met Anabel, my boss pretty much, and she took me around giving introductions and a tour of the yacht club. It's so nice, and everyone seems so friendly. It's a great environment.
I have a desk. ha! Between my other boss Johnathon and Anabel, and in front of us is this huge bay window that directly overlooks Hyde Park. It's fantastic. Too bad the weather was crap today. I just did a bunch of random things, like getting phone numbers/emails and stuff like that from a bunch of members so we can send out invitations to this huge annual Prize Winners Dinner, where the Trophy winners from each of the regattas, rally's, races, etc all gather with other members and have this huge celebration. So that is our main planning project at the time. Not too much else went on today, and I'm laying low tonight most likely since the weather is rubbish. Shower, tea, outfit- picking, hanging out with cools kids...I really need to go grocery shopping but not until there's a bit better weather. Until tomorrow-
<3 Krista
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Eastenders
The Eastend is kind of like the SoHo/Chinatown of New York. You have to have your wits about you, however felt pretty safe today since we were with our teacher and he knew where he was going. We went through four different markets, each specializing with something for different tastes and walked down various streets lined with clothing, foods, jewlery, and shoes. We visited one of the only flower markets left in London, where carriers from Essex and other parts of England bring thousands of flowers and plants and the like year round to sell. for very cheap prices. and very exotic as well. we almost bought a lemon tree. we also went to Brick Lane Market, which was more or less a huge tag sale.
Spitalfields Market was awesome. Tons and tons of design students featuring jewelry, handbags, frocks, coats, t's...etc. i bought a new skirt for work for 10 quid from a little chinese lady, who had designed it and handmade it from Chinese fabrics. its really soft. and flowy :) We only had about a half hour walk through, so I didn't get to make it through even a quarter of the way in, before I went back to meet up with the group. But all the markets are open every sunday year round. and apparently its a great christmas shopping area as well ;)
Petticoat Lane Market was also a huge tag sale. It was like the NY street sellers all conglomerated on this huge strip for miles, and just set up shop. It's great. Can't wait to go back. Also may have found where I'm going to sell everything that won't fit in my suitcase on my return trip home. or the useless UK power outlet appliances i dont want to take home. haha. just kidding eva...I'll help you out haha.
Tomorrow is my first day at The Royal Thames Yacht Club. Very excited to finally start, yet still really nervous and don't know what to expect. My bosses seem so nice, and accomidating though so I'm not too worried. BUT WHAT WILL I WEAR!?
<3 Krista
Spitalfields Market was awesome. Tons and tons of design students featuring jewelry, handbags, frocks, coats, t's...etc. i bought a new skirt for work for 10 quid from a little chinese lady, who had designed it and handmade it from Chinese fabrics. its really soft. and flowy :) We only had about a half hour walk through, so I didn't get to make it through even a quarter of the way in, before I went back to meet up with the group. But all the markets are open every sunday year round. and apparently its a great christmas shopping area as well ;)
Petticoat Lane Market was also a huge tag sale. It was like the NY street sellers all conglomerated on this huge strip for miles, and just set up shop. It's great. Can't wait to go back. Also may have found where I'm going to sell everything that won't fit in my suitcase on my return trip home. or the useless UK power outlet appliances i dont want to take home. haha. just kidding eva...I'll help you out haha.
Tomorrow is my first day at The Royal Thames Yacht Club. Very excited to finally start, yet still really nervous and don't know what to expect. My bosses seem so nice, and accomidating though so I'm not too worried. BUT WHAT WILL I WEAR!?
<3 Krista
1920's Speakeasies and Indian Experiences
Friday night we tried out this bar/club called Blind Tiger at AKA. It was a 1920's style bar, with sitting room, a dance floor, stools, two floors, and ropes and a hoop hanging from the ceiling. The Dj was pretty awesome, mixing songs together like 'we will rock you' to the music from 'i love rock and roll' and things like that, and playing a few swing songs occasionally. it was kind of awesome. to add to the fun, every night there are different burlesque dancers there. that was kind of crazy. this girl would descend on this hoop from the ceiling, and do all these contorsionist spins, and loops and crazy circus type stuff. to add to the boys attraction, she had lack of a shirt, much like the janet jackson "accident" at the superbowl. or Lil' Kim's classy attire that year at the VMA's. It was really fun none the less.
Last night we went down to SoHo to try Indian food. Trying new things left and right gang. I hope you're proud. It was actually really good. We could barely read the menu, but just took a shot in the dark and were pleasantly surprised. However, we mistakenly ended up at a Vegetarian style Indian Cuisine place, so we're gonna have to try another one out, with meats and chicken and stuff. My tea i had was so amazing. Lemon Tea, freshly brewed or boiled. and then I had a mint tea which was also delicious. I think they literally just use wicked hot water and the lemons, or mint leaves and no tea bags. it was soooo gooodddd.
Off to the East End for the day. Big stories to come, I'm sure. ;)
<3 Krista
Last night we went down to SoHo to try Indian food. Trying new things left and right gang. I hope you're proud. It was actually really good. We could barely read the menu, but just took a shot in the dark and were pleasantly surprised. However, we mistakenly ended up at a Vegetarian style Indian Cuisine place, so we're gonna have to try another one out, with meats and chicken and stuff. My tea i had was so amazing. Lemon Tea, freshly brewed or boiled. and then I had a mint tea which was also delicious. I think they literally just use wicked hot water and the lemons, or mint leaves and no tea bags. it was soooo gooodddd.
Off to the East End for the day. Big stories to come, I'm sure. ;)
<3 Krista
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Belushi's Round Two. Shunned.
Monday we went to The Roadhouse bar to check it out. We heard there were live bands every night, and happy hour and the bartenders practice their flair. There's also flair competitions every Sunday, which is awesome. Definitely want to check that out. It was an all around fun place, and apparently is a "tourist trap", however we didnt find many tourists there, and i really liked the atmosphere.
Last night we went to try for karaoke round two at Belushi's. We got a huge group together, and were pumped, and had a lot of fun for the time we were there. Although, we didn't do much karaoke-ing because they changed the set-up and we pretty much hung out downstairs and danced to the DJ's jams and were having a blast. Then all hell broke loose in a matter of seconds. One of our friends was pretty much attacked, by some random guy, for no reason what-so-ever. Long story short, the tools peaced out as soon as they had attacked him, and then by the time we realized what was going on we peaced out infuriated as well. Goodbye Belushi's. We will find another karaoke hot-spot. LAME.
<3 Krista
Last night we went to try for karaoke round two at Belushi's. We got a huge group together, and were pumped, and had a lot of fun for the time we were there. Although, we didn't do much karaoke-ing because they changed the set-up and we pretty much hung out downstairs and danced to the DJ's jams and were having a blast. Then all hell broke loose in a matter of seconds. One of our friends was pretty much attacked, by some random guy, for no reason what-so-ever. Long story short, the tools peaced out as soon as they had attacked him, and then by the time we realized what was going on we peaced out infuriated as well. Goodbye Belushi's. We will find another karaoke hot-spot. LAME.
<3 Krista
Sunday, September 23, 2007
I lied about my photo website
I found a much better photo uploader, that takes way less time, and also doesn't freeze my computer. So all you lovelies can check out what I'm doing, and stalk me some more ;)
http://picasaweb.google.com/kristabridges
<3 Krista
http://picasaweb.google.com/kristabridges
<3 Krista
Pear Cider, SoHo and Hot Springs
I have found my beloved pear cider at Sainsbury's. for 1/3 of the price i paid in scotland. <3
Friday we went to SoHo on a whim to go exploring. stopped in a few pubs here and there, but didn't stay out too too late. Danielle got a passion fruit martini, that apparently was delectable. I won't disclose the other crew member that got one, for their own dignity's sake and to protect their reputation. haha.
Saturday I got to go to Stonehenge with Dani. We took a seperate tour from the school, and went to Bath as well. It was a really good time. Stonehenge was eerie, and different from what i expected. I'm puzzled by it. Bath was incredible, but very very busy. i just wish we had had more time there. We explored the Roman Baths that were there, and it was amazing. im so glad i got to see them, and the literal hot springs still running through them as if it was still the reign of Julius Caesar. I can only imagine what the ones actually in Rome look like. Apparently you can pay 50 p for a glass of water from the baths, and it "cures you of any illness you may have." my can-do attitude really wanted to go to the Pump House to test it out, but we couldn't find the fountain, or where you would order it. sigh. alas, one thing can't get checked off the list. The city itself was beautiful, but we didn't get to walk around very much at all. lack of time, which is unfortunate. we did however make a new friend on the bus on the way there. he's from australia and he's living right down the road in the next part of kensington for a while. we're all gonna go party at the aussie bars with him and his friends some time, which should be cool.
Today we went to the Hard Rock Cafe Vault and got to check out mad guitars and memorobilia from all the rockstars like Jimi Hendrix, Freddy Mercury, John Lennon, Little Richard, Keith Richards, etc. the tour guide was on crack i think. but it was sick. and free. Free Tours are Exceptional. :-D
Off to the Natural Museum of History tomorrow with Danielle my love. and our weekly stop at Sainsbury's for juice boxes. yay.
<3 Krista
Friday we went to SoHo on a whim to go exploring. stopped in a few pubs here and there, but didn't stay out too too late. Danielle got a passion fruit martini, that apparently was delectable. I won't disclose the other crew member that got one, for their own dignity's sake and to protect their reputation. haha.
Saturday I got to go to Stonehenge with Dani. We took a seperate tour from the school, and went to Bath as well. It was a really good time. Stonehenge was eerie, and different from what i expected. I'm puzzled by it. Bath was incredible, but very very busy. i just wish we had had more time there. We explored the Roman Baths that were there, and it was amazing. im so glad i got to see them, and the literal hot springs still running through them as if it was still the reign of Julius Caesar. I can only imagine what the ones actually in Rome look like. Apparently you can pay 50 p for a glass of water from the baths, and it "cures you of any illness you may have." my can-do attitude really wanted to go to the Pump House to test it out, but we couldn't find the fountain, or where you would order it. sigh. alas, one thing can't get checked off the list. The city itself was beautiful, but we didn't get to walk around very much at all. lack of time, which is unfortunate. we did however make a new friend on the bus on the way there. he's from australia and he's living right down the road in the next part of kensington for a while. we're all gonna go party at the aussie bars with him and his friends some time, which should be cool.
Today we went to the Hard Rock Cafe Vault and got to check out mad guitars and memorobilia from all the rockstars like Jimi Hendrix, Freddy Mercury, John Lennon, Little Richard, Keith Richards, etc. the tour guide was on crack i think. but it was sick. and free. Free Tours are Exceptional. :-D
Off to the Natural Museum of History tomorrow with Danielle my love. and our weekly stop at Sainsbury's for juice boxes. yay.
<3 Krista
John Mayer in London?!
Tuesday i was going to head to The Royal Albert's Hall to see if i could get cheap standing tickets to the John Mayer concert that night. It was sold out, and the night before was supposedly awesome. I had to try at least...
About an hour before i was going to head over there before class, good old Scott gets back from his first day on the job at the Talent Booking Agency (pretty much Adam's "Josh's Intern" job, but in london...) He walks in to tell me about day one and slaps down two tickets on my newspaper. He snagged them up from his boss for the show that night. i couldnt believe my eyes. not only were these tickets to see the show, they were Box seats! rediculously classy, and incredible.
Newton Faulkner opened, and he rocked out pretty awesomely. Kind of a mix of Daughtry and Jason Mraz, the way he spit lyrics, but a rougher sound. Pretty awesome. And to top it off, he sang the Sponge Bob theme song to close his performance....in the Royal Albert's Hall...that's pretty much unheard of haha. it was fantastic.
Needless to say John Mayer put on the performance of a lifetime. It was just f-ing incredible. the lights, the monitors, his energy, the band's enthusiasm. it was unforgettably the best show i've ever been to other than Jack's at newport this past summer. I was in awe. Ultimately amazing. I'll post some videos from the show on youtube later, featuring the Sponge Bob diddy, Why Georgia and Your Body is a Wonderland.
<3 Krista
About an hour before i was going to head over there before class, good old Scott gets back from his first day on the job at the Talent Booking Agency (pretty much Adam's "Josh's Intern" job, but in london...) He walks in to tell me about day one and slaps down two tickets on my newspaper. He snagged them up from his boss for the show that night. i couldnt believe my eyes. not only were these tickets to see the show, they were Box seats! rediculously classy, and incredible.
Newton Faulkner opened, and he rocked out pretty awesomely. Kind of a mix of Daughtry and Jason Mraz, the way he spit lyrics, but a rougher sound. Pretty awesome. And to top it off, he sang the Sponge Bob theme song to close his performance....in the Royal Albert's Hall...that's pretty much unheard of haha. it was fantastic.
Needless to say John Mayer put on the performance of a lifetime. It was just f-ing incredible. the lights, the monitors, his energy, the band's enthusiasm. it was unforgettably the best show i've ever been to other than Jack's at newport this past summer. I was in awe. Ultimately amazing. I'll post some videos from the show on youtube later, featuring the Sponge Bob diddy, Why Georgia and Your Body is a Wonderland.
<3 Krista
Show Me That Can-Do Attitude!!
Last weekend I got to go to Scotland for 4 days. Wow. It was just plain incredible. The sights, the people, the history, the culture...I couldn't get enough of it.
Friday we traveled with a small group from school and two advisors, to Edinborough. The train was about 4 hrs, but not bad...the sights on the way were enough to keep you occupied. When we got there, we checked into our hostel (probably the nicest hostel in existance) and then broke up to do our own thing. Most of us met up and we all went to the Edinborough Castle. We went to the castle, then went off on our own and hung out at a local pub, did some shopping, and went on a ghost tour (which was scary as hell. Endinborough is like the most haunted place in the world).
At the pub I discovered Pear Cider. It is amazing and a God-send. Scott got Haggis, which we all tried. yes. haggis. the ultimate scottish traditional dish. For those who dont know its all the gizzards of a sheep, ground up, and then boiled and used to be lined in sheeps intenstine, but these days i guess the UK FDA nix'd that. so its a more "natural coating". anyways. My can-do attitude was at its height. and yes, i ate it. a miniscule bite. but i did it. we have documentation for the sceptics. in all honesty if i didnt know what it was it wasnt awful. it was like really spicey taco meat....but i dont think ill eat it ever again.
Saturday we were picked up by our Haggis Tour bus, big yellow, and our driver/tour guide who rocked, Dave. Born and bread in Scotland he knew his stuff, and kept us laughing. Over the next 3 days, we traveled throughout the whole country, up to the aisle of Skye, through the highlands, and to Loch Ness on our way back down and around. Highlights included: Dunking our face in the river for beauty. whiskey sampling from the the whiskey stop. hanging out with the locals in Fort Augustus at the one of two pubs in town. drinking water from the ferry waterfalls for goodluck and wishes. seeing Wells take not one, but probably three diggers running down from the top and getting covered in mud...and scott prancing his way down to avoid doing the same. then the next day, seeing Wells (probably twice scotts size) wearing scotts pants because he had nothing else to change into. seeing real highlander attire and watching this australian kid have to "become a real man" and pretty much strip in front of 50-60 people. Scott and I had a karaoke reunion at the Lodge (our third night hostel) and then the rest of the night consisted of group sing-a-longs, and scott's special performance -spitting mad rhymes-. pretty much all of the sights and stories dave told us. and i dipped my leg in loch ness. a weekend full of spontinuity. it was fantastic.
<3 Krista
Friday we traveled with a small group from school and two advisors, to Edinborough. The train was about 4 hrs, but not bad...the sights on the way were enough to keep you occupied. When we got there, we checked into our hostel (probably the nicest hostel in existance) and then broke up to do our own thing. Most of us met up and we all went to the Edinborough Castle. We went to the castle, then went off on our own and hung out at a local pub, did some shopping, and went on a ghost tour (which was scary as hell. Endinborough is like the most haunted place in the world).
At the pub I discovered Pear Cider. It is amazing and a God-send. Scott got Haggis, which we all tried. yes. haggis. the ultimate scottish traditional dish. For those who dont know its all the gizzards of a sheep, ground up, and then boiled and used to be lined in sheeps intenstine, but these days i guess the UK FDA nix'd that. so its a more "natural coating". anyways. My can-do attitude was at its height. and yes, i ate it. a miniscule bite. but i did it. we have documentation for the sceptics. in all honesty if i didnt know what it was it wasnt awful. it was like really spicey taco meat....but i dont think ill eat it ever again.
Saturday we were picked up by our Haggis Tour bus, big yellow, and our driver/tour guide who rocked, Dave. Born and bread in Scotland he knew his stuff, and kept us laughing. Over the next 3 days, we traveled throughout the whole country, up to the aisle of Skye, through the highlands, and to Loch Ness on our way back down and around. Highlights included: Dunking our face in the river for beauty. whiskey sampling from the the whiskey stop. hanging out with the locals in Fort Augustus at the one of two pubs in town. drinking water from the ferry waterfalls for goodluck and wishes. seeing Wells take not one, but probably three diggers running down from the top and getting covered in mud...and scott prancing his way down to avoid doing the same. then the next day, seeing Wells (probably twice scotts size) wearing scotts pants because he had nothing else to change into. seeing real highlander attire and watching this australian kid have to "become a real man" and pretty much strip in front of 50-60 people. Scott and I had a karaoke reunion at the Lodge (our third night hostel) and then the rest of the night consisted of group sing-a-longs, and scott's special performance -spitting mad rhymes-. pretty much all of the sights and stories dave told us. and i dipped my leg in loch ness. a weekend full of spontinuity. it was fantastic.
<3 Krista
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Beluchi's - Football. Glowdoms. Blowup sheep. Summer nights.
Last night may have been one of my favorite nights here so far. After class we went out to London Bridge, to this pub/youth hostel called Beluchi's. It was a blast. We got there a bit early to watch the football game vs. Russia, and had some dinner. Then they turn the upstairs bar into a karaoke frenzy with drink specials.
We met some English boys, and they were fun. A bit crazy the more pints they kept getting in them. One wrote for a rubbish newspaper. the other - get this - his sister went to URI to study abroad. WTF. He asked where we were from, and we told him CT, NY...Texas. And he said he'd been to Rhode Island (of course 4/5 of us go to school in RI, so we were like "no way!") and i asked where he'd been. He said Providence and Kingston. "KINGSTON?! WHAT?! Why the hell have you been there?!" "My sister studied there for 6 months last year, at the University." Leave it to fate that this kids sister was probably one of the English girls I always drove home from all the parties down the line with Rhody Rides, and saw in the suites when i did my laundry. What are the odds.
Anyways. We all chatted with them, about football-music-everything. It was fun. Scott and I made our musical debut singing "Summer Nights" for the whole audience. That was so much fun. Our new friends Joe and Dan were big fans...kind of got mauled by them afterward...eh. Scott sang his solo 'Hello, My Love' by the Doors, right as we were on our way out, and unfortunately figured out how to delete my recording of it. But it was so much fun, and I'm definitely looking forward to going back. Apparently I have to do a solo next time. um. yeah right. "Over the Moon" wasn't in the book unfortunately. haha.
Leaving for Scotland tomorrow until Monday with about 25 other Richmond kids. Can't wait to see the castles, I only wish I could live in and search out good ol' Nessy.
<3 Krista
We met some English boys, and they were fun. A bit crazy the more pints they kept getting in them. One wrote for a rubbish newspaper. the other - get this - his sister went to URI to study abroad. WTF. He asked where we were from, and we told him CT, NY...Texas. And he said he'd been to Rhode Island (of course 4/5 of us go to school in RI, so we were like "no way!") and i asked where he'd been. He said Providence and Kingston. "KINGSTON?! WHAT?! Why the hell have you been there?!" "My sister studied there for 6 months last year, at the University." Leave it to fate that this kids sister was probably one of the English girls I always drove home from all the parties down the line with Rhody Rides, and saw in the suites when i did my laundry. What are the odds.
Anyways. We all chatted with them, about football-music-everything. It was fun. Scott and I made our musical debut singing "Summer Nights" for the whole audience. That was so much fun. Our new friends Joe and Dan were big fans...kind of got mauled by them afterward...eh. Scott sang his solo 'Hello, My Love' by the Doors, right as we were on our way out, and unfortunately figured out how to delete my recording of it. But it was so much fun, and I'm definitely looking forward to going back. Apparently I have to do a solo next time. um. yeah right. "Over the Moon" wasn't in the book unfortunately. haha.
Leaving for Scotland tomorrow until Monday with about 25 other Richmond kids. Can't wait to see the castles, I only wish I could live in and search out good ol' Nessy.
<3 Krista
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Speaker's Corner and a Comedy Catastrophe
Saturday night we went to Kavanaugh's pub because we saw they had live music. it was great. a big boost to the bust of a night at Fabric the night before. Ashley Scott and I broke it down on the dance floor. Singing Aerosmith and Bryan Adams got us going. I think by far my favorite part was seeing these two 50 yr old british guys sing Jet's "Be My Girl" though. Can't wait to go back. On our slightly drunken way home Scott and I developed our own gang. Kensington Greyhoods...represent. Applicants just need a grey hoodie and we'll let you in our secret hand signal.
Sunday Dani, Scott, Danielle, Ashley and I went for an adventure to speaker's corner in Hyde Park. Pretty much, here, every sunday, is where anyone can get up on their stool and start talking/debating about anything they choose. it draws quite the crowd, and quite a bit of entertainment. it was so great. one guy scott was talking to (who had 3 teeth) told me "you can't get to heaven unless you're wearing a green dress" (i was wearing my green dress) Was this a come on? Yikes. haha. There was tons of posters lining the fences anti-american/uk invasions in iraq etc...the typical stuff. lots of religious debates...then the odd, freaky and just plain outrageous. Be sure to look for those pictures too.
Scott, Ashley and I went to go play at Henley's toy store. It was pretty sick. FAO Shwartz still takes the cake, but this definitely was worth going to play in. so much fun.
Last night (tuesday) the bad news bears (dani and danielle) dragged me out. we checked out a comedy show at a pub in Soho. It was awful. lol. The last comedian was great, he was australian, but the crowd we were with was just lame. they didnt react off of anything from any of the other performers, and it was just painful at some points. maybe im just a snob from being emotionally numb from the countless comedians being thrown at us at NACA, and through SEC....no. I'm just going to say it was a bad line up in general. Oh well, live and learn.
Rugby game 2 is tonight :) And karaoke. Yes, that's right. Summer Nights duet. I'm all over that shizzle. My debut on the stage has come at last...Watch out London, it's going to be messy.
<3 Krista
Sunday Dani, Scott, Danielle, Ashley and I went for an adventure to speaker's corner in Hyde Park. Pretty much, here, every sunday, is where anyone can get up on their stool and start talking/debating about anything they choose. it draws quite the crowd, and quite a bit of entertainment. it was so great. one guy scott was talking to (who had 3 teeth) told me "you can't get to heaven unless you're wearing a green dress" (i was wearing my green dress) Was this a come on? Yikes. haha. There was tons of posters lining the fences anti-american/uk invasions in iraq etc...the typical stuff. lots of religious debates...then the odd, freaky and just plain outrageous. Be sure to look for those pictures too.
Scott, Ashley and I went to go play at Henley's toy store. It was pretty sick. FAO Shwartz still takes the cake, but this definitely was worth going to play in. so much fun.
Last night (tuesday) the bad news bears (dani and danielle) dragged me out. we checked out a comedy show at a pub in Soho. It was awful. lol. The last comedian was great, he was australian, but the crowd we were with was just lame. they didnt react off of anything from any of the other performers, and it was just painful at some points. maybe im just a snob from being emotionally numb from the countless comedians being thrown at us at NACA, and through SEC....no. I'm just going to say it was a bad line up in general. Oh well, live and learn.
Rugby game 2 is tonight :) And karaoke. Yes, that's right. Summer Nights duet. I'm all over that shizzle. My debut on the stage has come at last...Watch out London, it's going to be messy.
<3 Krista
Who Says the Sun Doesn't Shine in England?
Saturday I went to Brighton. It's where alot of Englanders "holiday" by the seashore. It was just plain gorgeous. The architecture, the water, the pier, the ocean breeze. Just amazing. We took a bus ride, about 2 hrs, and got to hang out in the town all day, see the Royal Pavilion (which was this huge house that looked like the taj ma hall on the outside, but like picasso decorated the inside.), walk along the pier and just relaxing and exploring a bit of the english country side and seashore.
one interesting aspect inparticular was the beach was covered in stones, no sand. But not like, sharp rocky stones...because the salt water had smoothed them out. It was just covered in thousands of white and tan skimming stones, i guess you could call them. it was really interesting. The water was clearer than new england for sure. the pier was huge, and had massive carnival rides, bars, restuarants and an archade. the shore had tons of shops and cafes along the beach, and then there was tons of shopping across the street and into the town of brighton. it was huge and just so nice to get out of the city for a while. breath in the fresh air and sea breeze that i miss from rhode island so much. you don't realize how much you miss it until you live in the smog infested city for a few weeks. make sure to check out the pictures on facebook or in the photobucket :)
<3 Krista
one interesting aspect inparticular was the beach was covered in stones, no sand. But not like, sharp rocky stones...because the salt water had smoothed them out. It was just covered in thousands of white and tan skimming stones, i guess you could call them. it was really interesting. The water was clearer than new england for sure. the pier was huge, and had massive carnival rides, bars, restuarants and an archade. the shore had tons of shops and cafes along the beach, and then there was tons of shopping across the street and into the town of brighton. it was huge and just so nice to get out of the city for a while. breath in the fresh air and sea breeze that i miss from rhode island so much. you don't realize how much you miss it until you live in the smog infested city for a few weeks. make sure to check out the pictures on facebook or in the photobucket :)
<3 Krista
Who Wants E Pills?!
Friday night was an pre-organized club we could have signed up for - Fabric. Supposedly one of the harder clubs to get into in London.
Apparently it was "all the rage-fantastic-awesome-so cool-great time!"....It was a rave/E pill-drugged out party zone. SKETCHIEST place ever. Never again. There were tons of dance floors/bars, bad lighting, AWFUL music. it was just not pleasant. The pre-gaming for that night was the best part. there was no way i was going to pay 5 pounds for a drink there, when it would probably get drugged anyways. Needless to say we left around 1230. But didn't get back home until 2am. I was the only sober one at that point, bringing the bad news bears home, along with another girl from school, who had gotten seperated from her friends and was just a complete mess, poor thing. But I eventually got us all home safely. It was an "experience" for sure.
Of course, the RA's and RD's knew what a mess this place was, but talked it up like we couldn't miss out on it. The next day when we confronted them with these awful stories, and asked why in the world they didn't tell us, they said they wanted us to see for ourselves, and experience Fabric without their input. Yikes. Not fun. Never again.
<3 Krista
Apparently it was "all the rage-fantastic-awesome-so cool-great time!"....It was a rave/E pill-drugged out party zone. SKETCHIEST place ever. Never again. There were tons of dance floors/bars, bad lighting, AWFUL music. it was just not pleasant. The pre-gaming for that night was the best part. there was no way i was going to pay 5 pounds for a drink there, when it would probably get drugged anyways. Needless to say we left around 1230. But didn't get back home until 2am. I was the only sober one at that point, bringing the bad news bears home, along with another girl from school, who had gotten seperated from her friends and was just a complete mess, poor thing. But I eventually got us all home safely. It was an "experience" for sure.
Of course, the RA's and RD's knew what a mess this place was, but talked it up like we couldn't miss out on it. The next day when we confronted them with these awful stories, and asked why in the world they didn't tell us, they said they wanted us to see for ourselves, and experience Fabric without their input. Yikes. Not fun. Never again.
<3 Krista
The Interview? Party at the Yacht Club rather...
Last Thursday was my "interview" for the royal thames yacht club, down in Knightsbridge right across from Harrod's Dept Store (the Macy's of London...x 100) It's right in the city, and the members must store their yachts down by the thames im guessing. I was so nervous/excited. i also was aware ahead of time that I had been invited to the annual cocktail party that night as well. I went in my little black dress, met with the Captain and one of the Sailing Secretaries briefly, and pretty much they asked me if I would work for them on the spot. There really wasnt much of a formal interview at all. Slightly shocked, but really excited. I'm going to be working on a big reconfiguration project on excel because their offices are under reconstruction right now, and also assisting Abbigail, the social events coordinator. The Captain wants me to experience as much as possible, which is fantastic. Everyone there was so great and excited to have me on board. (ha.ha. no pun intended.) So pretty much after I sat with the Captain for like 4 minutes, he's like would you care to come have a drink with us downstairs and meet some people? and of course I accepted.
It was hilarious/great. The members of the club, the YM (young members) and the officers/coordinators of the club all mingle together and share close bonds, and joke with one another all the time. It was very posh. I felt like I was walking into one of the sitting rooms during a cocktail party in Titanic, but I was the Leonardo DiCaprio character and didn't know how to act, what to do other than smile and be as charming as possible.
Captain Freeman introduced me to many officers, members, ect. I met a few of the young members too which was great, meeting kids around my age. The older members were hilarious, cute drunken englishmen. Making passes at me, or just joking about what I should expect. The women were so warm and inviting. They would jokingly tell me who to look out for, and give me a few pointers. I think I'm really going to like it there and am really looking forward to it.
<3 Krista
It was hilarious/great. The members of the club, the YM (young members) and the officers/coordinators of the club all mingle together and share close bonds, and joke with one another all the time. It was very posh. I felt like I was walking into one of the sitting rooms during a cocktail party in Titanic, but I was the Leonardo DiCaprio character and didn't know how to act, what to do other than smile and be as charming as possible.
Captain Freeman introduced me to many officers, members, ect. I met a few of the young members too which was great, meeting kids around my age. The older members were hilarious, cute drunken englishmen. Making passes at me, or just joking about what I should expect. The women were so warm and inviting. They would jokingly tell me who to look out for, and give me a few pointers. I think I'm really going to like it there and am really looking forward to it.
<3 Krista
Sunday, September 9, 2007
food, friends and fun
I figured I'd finally update you on my living situation, the food, and lifestyle in general of the area, since it's been two weeks and I still haven't given you a heads up...
The Atlantic House: this is where I live. haha. typical dorm: doubles, mine's kind of ghetto, but not awful haha. just awkward shaped furniture/fitting - much like back in the suites. our caf is down in the basement, along with a huge common room with couches/vending machines/tv-dvd-vhs player and the 3 computer labs and laundry. We're up on the fourth floor with all the other interns, except for poor calli and steph down on floor 3. we have awesome windows overlooking St. Alban's Grove. Kensington is a very residential area, so its nice and quite, but 20 ft down the road is Builder's Arms pub which is always hopping. and about 2 streets over High St. where EVERYTHING is. and Gloucester which is another road of shops and pubs...it's awesome. coblestone roads and all. its so great.
Food: like i said, its not good here, from the caf. things are very different but its all about new experiences and trying new flavors and new varieties. I've freaked out a few times as some of you know. Grocery Stores were the worst, finding my knick for cheap food...that i could read the label on. Yes, we all speak the same language, but the product labels are completely different and rarely will you find a name brand from the states...which is kind of a lie, because US stuff is everywhere, but repackaged and advertised differently. but for the most part its all UK brands and just new types of foods. Thanks to laura, Sainsburys is my saving grace. its like super walmart. and right down the road. and where i buy my 74 p juice box packages. and cereal. woot.
Everyone here is great. Friendly all around for the most part, and lots of fun. I love you all! :)
My roommate is Dani and shes from Texas. She's too funny, and reminds me a lot of Hannah. (speaking oof which--- HANNAH CALL ME!) Danielle, who lives right next door and was roommate-less. :( but she's remodeled her room and i think finds it much more fitting :) haha. Ironically enough Danielle is my East Granby/Newport connection...and we went to preschool together, just don't remember it now...its a small flipping world.
That's all for now. Updates to come on this weeks---INTERESTING---festitivies. Keep checking out the photobucket.
<3 Krista
The Atlantic House: this is where I live. haha. typical dorm: doubles, mine's kind of ghetto, but not awful haha. just awkward shaped furniture/fitting - much like back in the suites. our caf is down in the basement, along with a huge common room with couches/vending machines/tv-dvd-vhs player and the 3 computer labs and laundry. We're up on the fourth floor with all the other interns, except for poor calli and steph down on floor 3. we have awesome windows overlooking St. Alban's Grove. Kensington is a very residential area, so its nice and quite, but 20 ft down the road is Builder's Arms pub which is always hopping. and about 2 streets over High St. where EVERYTHING is. and Gloucester which is another road of shops and pubs...it's awesome. coblestone roads and all. its so great.
Food: like i said, its not good here, from the caf. things are very different but its all about new experiences and trying new flavors and new varieties. I've freaked out a few times as some of you know. Grocery Stores were the worst, finding my knick for cheap food...that i could read the label on. Yes, we all speak the same language, but the product labels are completely different and rarely will you find a name brand from the states...which is kind of a lie, because US stuff is everywhere, but repackaged and advertised differently. but for the most part its all UK brands and just new types of foods. Thanks to laura, Sainsburys is my saving grace. its like super walmart. and right down the road. and where i buy my 74 p juice box packages. and cereal. woot.
Everyone here is great. Friendly all around for the most part, and lots of fun. I love you all! :)
My roommate is Dani and shes from Texas. She's too funny, and reminds me a lot of Hannah. (speaking oof which--- HANNAH CALL ME!) Danielle, who lives right next door and was roommate-less. :( but she's remodeled her room and i think finds it much more fitting :) haha. Ironically enough Danielle is my East Granby/Newport connection...and we went to preschool together, just don't remember it now...its a small flipping world.
That's all for now. Updates to come on this weeks---INTERESTING---festitivies. Keep checking out the photobucket.
<3 Krista
Thursday, September 6, 2007
SSC 323: Things We Hate About the UK
so our professor for our contemporary british culture class asked us to introduce ourselves, and give something we hate about the UK so far. afterward, he went through and gave his input/bit of history...with a dash of humor.
The Tube Strike: the first basically ever. the Tube has been running since 1860. and it's so popular, there's no time you can shut it down and repair it. so something needs to be done.
Food: British = bland. Has become the Take Away Nation (To-go as we in the States call it) There is no real cuisine of England anymore, it's a big melting pot of everything, and slowly "globalizing"
Weather: so unpredictable. the difference between the states and the uk - the uk weather is not meant to kill you. (ie: twisters, floods, hurricanes, huge snow storms, blazing heat waves) the uk is just plain mild.
Roads (which way do you look/when do you cross): it's a sport. run like hell.
Electricity: problem- no bathroom sockets. well at 240 volts its enough to kill you let alone be near water.
Drinks: Warm. no ice. frowned upon.
Money Money Money: The pound versus the dollar. the dollar is weak right now, but once our "problem" (ie: there is a new election...) is gone it will be better.
Products (my personal dilema...i can't read labels. and i have no idea what i'm buying): be adventurous.
Coins: theres barely any paper money. which sucks. "don't worry about the brown ones" (those GD huge 2 pence coins!!)
Take Away Culture: if you want good food- sit down and enjoy it in a restaurant. on the go "trash food" -leading problem with pigeons and rats.
Size: very small
"not" friendly: londoners are surrounded by people 24/7. when they have a second to themselves, they dont want to see anyone or make conversation.
Tube closes at 12 am - thats what those knightbuses are for. have an adventure. make some new friends
Beef- true. Americans have a few things to be proud of: steak, seafood and salad
Water: english didn't drink water. they purified their water by turning it into alcohol. or make tea, and make the dirty water taste good.
11 pm is "last call": not true. just go search out those pubs with the student nights
The Tube Strike: the first basically ever. the Tube has been running since 1860. and it's so popular, there's no time you can shut it down and repair it. so something needs to be done.
Food: British = bland. Has become the Take Away Nation (To-go as we in the States call it) There is no real cuisine of England anymore, it's a big melting pot of everything, and slowly "globalizing"
Weather: so unpredictable. the difference between the states and the uk - the uk weather is not meant to kill you. (ie: twisters, floods, hurricanes, huge snow storms, blazing heat waves) the uk is just plain mild.
Roads (which way do you look/when do you cross): it's a sport. run like hell.
Electricity: problem- no bathroom sockets. well at 240 volts its enough to kill you let alone be near water.
Drinks: Warm. no ice. frowned upon.
Money Money Money: The pound versus the dollar. the dollar is weak right now, but once our "problem" (ie: there is a new election...) is gone it will be better.
Products (my personal dilema...i can't read labels. and i have no idea what i'm buying): be adventurous.
Coins: theres barely any paper money. which sucks. "don't worry about the brown ones" (those GD huge 2 pence coins!!)
Take Away Culture: if you want good food- sit down and enjoy it in a restaurant. on the go "trash food" -leading problem with pigeons and rats.
Size: very small
"not" friendly: londoners are surrounded by people 24/7. when they have a second to themselves, they dont want to see anyone or make conversation.
Tube closes at 12 am - thats what those knightbuses are for. have an adventure. make some new friends
Beef- true. Americans have a few things to be proud of: steak, seafood and salad
Water: english didn't drink water. they purified their water by turning it into alcohol. or make tea, and make the dirty water taste good.
11 pm is "last call": not true. just go search out those pubs with the student nights
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Photos, Phones, and Snail Mail
Just some contact info in case you feel the need to send me love <3 or stalk me. whatever you choose.
My Cell Phone:
Dial 011 + 44 for the country codes
Mobile Phone #: 079 6441 5246
My School Address:
Krista Bridges
c/o Student Mail
Atlantic House
Richmond, The American International University in London
1 St. Alban's Grove
London, England W8 5PN
And for all of you wishing to take a peak at the amazing sights and sounds of my new home, I'll be posting all my photos (including ones i don't put on facebook) in photobucket...located here :)
http://s220.photobucket.com/albums/dd307/thelondondiaries/
<3 Krista
My Cell Phone:
Dial 011 + 44 for the country codes
Mobile Phone #: 079 6441 5246
My School Address:
Krista Bridges
c/o Student Mail
Atlantic House
Richmond, The American International University in London
1 St. Alban's Grove
London, England W8 5PN
And for all of you wishing to take a peak at the amazing sights and sounds of my new home, I'll be posting all my photos (including ones i don't put on facebook) in photobucket...located here :)
http://s220.photobucket.com/albums/dd307/thelondondiaries/
<3 Krista
portabello, peter pan and posh appearances.
So, updating on the recent events:
Saturday- Portabello Market trip. Way cool. very vintage. it was like a huge flea market with antiques, quirky clothing, farmer's markets and trinkets and shops. I, of course, fell in love with it and can't wait to go back one day. I only wish we had a fridge, or a microwave/way to store our own food (Update on food/friends/way of life still to come in a seperate post soon). But I was able to buy a HUGE pint of blackberries (i'm talking massive. the berries were like injected with hormones they were so ginormous) for a pound fifty. which is about 3 bucks, i was so siked, and ate them all in a matter of 15 minutes when i got home. they were delicious.
Boat Party on the Thames. Took a while to get to, few wrong turns here and there but we're making our way. It was ... alright. fun to chat with friends, had only 2 small drinks, and spent away my life :( the drinks on the boat were very expensive. so we came home around 11:30, and it took almost an hour. thank god we made the tube.
Sunday- Went exploring for our internship interview locations. AKA traveled all the way across London, wrong turns here and there, lots of map research, lots of walking, lots of frustration. I just went along for the ride, but it was kind of tiring after a while. We went to Soho to find E! for Ashley, and Scott was about 10 minutes down the road at a Talent Agency. Then we took a treck up to "scotland" as Dani likes to call it. Really, in fact, it was Camden Town, where Camden Market was being held. um, lets just say it was very interesting. i defintely want to go back and look around the shops. but it was portabello market on E/gone gothic punk. there were some characters. luckily she was offered a completely different position somewhere else, and wont need to travel to Camden Town again. needless to say, she's quite thrilled. On our way home we took the picadilly line straight to my work (since its like right up the street from my dorm. 20 minute walk or so. Right next to Harrod's, harvey nichols, burberry, and hyde park. it's incredible.
Our trip took a lot out of me though, so when i came back i didnt have the energy to go to the BBQ at richmond. I was feeling a bit down/out of it sunday night, just frustrated in general about a lot of things. not being able to figure out food labels. money issues. not being able to just call my mom, or any of my friends and family. it was just rough. i need time to myself to think and collect myself after going and going and going.
Monday- Much better day. Finally getting into a routine, had my first class. only lasted a half hour though because my professors apt had been robbed the night before, and his computers were stolen and he was in a tizzy. poor guy. but he seems really cool, and the class should be very interesting (Writing for the Media/Journalism)
i then went exploring by myself (seeing as it was 10 and i had no plans the rest of the day, which was nice) i explored a bunch of clothing stores to see what was out there/where there were good prices. bought some new headphones so i could finally use Skype. and then took a stroll through Hyde Park. It was fantastic. i just wandered/on a search for peter pan. i got a cup of tea and sat on the river. the sun was shining, and glistening off the water. it was so peaceful and was great to just clear my head, and have some alone time to think, and reflect on the chaos of the past week. i finally found peter. and was so happy. :) i got a picture with him. we're buds now. I will honestly never grow up. I bought juice boxes, cereal, granola bars and peanut butter soon after at sainsbury's which is the most amazing supermarket ever. (thank you laura reidy. haha)
Today- Had our interview workshop. good fun, and good advice. looking forward to mine thursday at 6:30...with cocktail party to follow. can't wait, but very nervous...
going to grab some lunch with the girls now, and will update on the life and tims of london later tonight after our british cultures class. cheers loves!
<3 Krista
Saturday- Portabello Market trip. Way cool. very vintage. it was like a huge flea market with antiques, quirky clothing, farmer's markets and trinkets and shops. I, of course, fell in love with it and can't wait to go back one day. I only wish we had a fridge, or a microwave/way to store our own food (Update on food/friends/way of life still to come in a seperate post soon). But I was able to buy a HUGE pint of blackberries (i'm talking massive. the berries were like injected with hormones they were so ginormous) for a pound fifty. which is about 3 bucks, i was so siked, and ate them all in a matter of 15 minutes when i got home. they were delicious.
Boat Party on the Thames. Took a while to get to, few wrong turns here and there but we're making our way. It was ... alright. fun to chat with friends, had only 2 small drinks, and spent away my life :( the drinks on the boat were very expensive. so we came home around 11:30, and it took almost an hour. thank god we made the tube.
Sunday- Went exploring for our internship interview locations. AKA traveled all the way across London, wrong turns here and there, lots of map research, lots of walking, lots of frustration. I just went along for the ride, but it was kind of tiring after a while. We went to Soho to find E! for Ashley, and Scott was about 10 minutes down the road at a Talent Agency. Then we took a treck up to "scotland" as Dani likes to call it. Really, in fact, it was Camden Town, where Camden Market was being held. um, lets just say it was very interesting. i defintely want to go back and look around the shops. but it was portabello market on E/gone gothic punk. there were some characters. luckily she was offered a completely different position somewhere else, and wont need to travel to Camden Town again. needless to say, she's quite thrilled. On our way home we took the picadilly line straight to my work (since its like right up the street from my dorm. 20 minute walk or so. Right next to Harrod's, harvey nichols, burberry, and hyde park. it's incredible.
Our trip took a lot out of me though, so when i came back i didnt have the energy to go to the BBQ at richmond. I was feeling a bit down/out of it sunday night, just frustrated in general about a lot of things. not being able to figure out food labels. money issues. not being able to just call my mom, or any of my friends and family. it was just rough. i need time to myself to think and collect myself after going and going and going.
Monday- Much better day. Finally getting into a routine, had my first class. only lasted a half hour though because my professors apt had been robbed the night before, and his computers were stolen and he was in a tizzy. poor guy. but he seems really cool, and the class should be very interesting (Writing for the Media/Journalism)
i then went exploring by myself (seeing as it was 10 and i had no plans the rest of the day, which was nice) i explored a bunch of clothing stores to see what was out there/where there were good prices. bought some new headphones so i could finally use Skype. and then took a stroll through Hyde Park. It was fantastic. i just wandered/on a search for peter pan. i got a cup of tea and sat on the river. the sun was shining, and glistening off the water. it was so peaceful and was great to just clear my head, and have some alone time to think, and reflect on the chaos of the past week. i finally found peter. and was so happy. :) i got a picture with him. we're buds now. I will honestly never grow up. I bought juice boxes, cereal, granola bars and peanut butter soon after at sainsbury's which is the most amazing supermarket ever. (thank you laura reidy. haha)
Today- Had our interview workshop. good fun, and good advice. looking forward to mine thursday at 6:30...with cocktail party to follow. can't wait, but very nervous...
going to grab some lunch with the girls now, and will update on the life and tims of london later tonight after our british cultures class. cheers loves!
<3 Krista
Friday, August 31, 2007
orange, oysters and oasis?
Alright. Sit Back, grab a pint (or a cup of coffee), and settle in. It's going to be a long update, seeing as it's been a week - we have some catching up to do.
Monday, left the cousins to head to JFK. the flight was crazy cool- Virgin Atlantic, you rock. movies, tv, radio, video games...wow. We were picked up at the airport in Heathrow and taken by bus to Richmond's Kensington campus. We all moved in, settled in a bit, then began the week of festivities.
In a nutshell so far:
*Kensington Walking Tour (we live in the most expensive part of London, very posh, right across from Kesington Palace, where Princess Di lived and seconds from Kensington High St...major shopping area.)
*Imperial College down the road, and had a drink at the pub, which i mentioned before
Wednesday-
*Overall Orientation of the Program with different speakers and staff introductions
*Computer Orientation (SOOO not helpful, obviously)
*Trip and Activity sign ups for the semester (which will be mentioned soon...)
*Resident meetings (all the interns are living on the fourth floor btw...the penthouse shall we say, i think i have a curse of the "top floor" syndrome.)
*Jack the Ripper Walking Tour - way fun and interesting. jacky, you were a sick and twisted man.
Thursday
*Internship meeting, met our supervisors and realized I'm going to have no free time with my life the next 3.5 months but what else is new. thats how i like it.
*The things to join and trip sign ups, for like Gyms and potential upcoming events like this awesome club called Fabric
*Bus Tour of London - way awesome. FINALLY got to see some touristy places. got to hop out at St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tower Bridge (commonly mistaken for London Bridges...please, no singing.) Pictures to soon come.
*Night in the West End - went to see Avenue Q with some of the girls. stopped at a pub across the way for some dinner. HUGE sandwiches. good food for once. the play was over the top awesome. it was Hysterical. so raunchy at some points, but so funny. (and no, i did not call jeff marx up. i didn't really want him relentlessly offering to buy me a burger, and then never leaving ... ever. haha.)
Today
*Library orientation...boo. welcome back to work at URI pretty much.
*Internship Interview with my school supervisors - okay, wow. i've been so clueless and nervous up to this point because I have had absolutely NO idea what i was in for, what i would be doing. Apparently, next week i will be interview with The Royal Thames Yacht Club. Yeah. I'm siked and scared sh-izzle-less. AND. right after my interview they have invited me to their cocktail party... ! WHAT !
my supervisors are going to help me decide what to wear, and i'm going to ask them for advice on how to act, and all that stuff. I'm clueless. so any tips of the trade would be fantastic. They said this is a very very posh, upscale place, and i would be working along side the event coordinator, which is going to be amazing. their first intern ever came from richmond last year, and i read her final paper today and she sounds very similiar to me, and had a fabulous experience. i can't wait. but im so scared.
*Went to Kensington Palace this afternoon to see the remembrances for Princess Dianna. Very touching and very nice. Very peaceful. Reminded me slightly of the wall of flowers covering the outside of St. Paul's Cathedral down at Ground Zero.
*Pub Crawl - Really fun, very tired, no time to sit and relax to have a drink, kind of "you have 30 minutes to meet us back here to continue the tour, on your mark get set go!" but still fun. and I GOT TO SEE THE GLOBE. yes, i'm a geek. whatever. and i almost walked into not one, but two poles. and this was before my krista-sized-halfpint. good times.
now we came back here, and i'm dead tired. its almost 12:30 and i',m off to portabello market tomorrow. woot!!
missing you all, will update with details on living/food/friends soon. Hugs.
<3 Krista
Monday, left the cousins to head to JFK. the flight was crazy cool- Virgin Atlantic, you rock. movies, tv, radio, video games...wow. We were picked up at the airport in Heathrow and taken by bus to Richmond's Kensington campus. We all moved in, settled in a bit, then began the week of festivities.
In a nutshell so far:
*Kensington Walking Tour (we live in the most expensive part of London, very posh, right across from Kesington Palace, where Princess Di lived and seconds from Kensington High St...major shopping area.)
*Imperial College down the road, and had a drink at the pub, which i mentioned before
Wednesday-
*Overall Orientation of the Program with different speakers and staff introductions
*Computer Orientation (SOOO not helpful, obviously)
*Trip and Activity sign ups for the semester (which will be mentioned soon...)
*Resident meetings (all the interns are living on the fourth floor btw...the penthouse shall we say, i think i have a curse of the "top floor" syndrome.)
*Jack the Ripper Walking Tour - way fun and interesting. jacky, you were a sick and twisted man.
Thursday
*Internship meeting, met our supervisors and realized I'm going to have no free time with my life the next 3.5 months but what else is new. thats how i like it.
*The things to join and trip sign ups, for like Gyms and potential upcoming events like this awesome club called Fabric
*Bus Tour of London - way awesome. FINALLY got to see some touristy places. got to hop out at St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tower Bridge (commonly mistaken for London Bridges...please, no singing.) Pictures to soon come.
*Night in the West End - went to see Avenue Q with some of the girls. stopped at a pub across the way for some dinner. HUGE sandwiches. good food for once. the play was over the top awesome. it was Hysterical. so raunchy at some points, but so funny. (and no, i did not call jeff marx up. i didn't really want him relentlessly offering to buy me a burger, and then never leaving ... ever. haha.)
Today
*Library orientation...boo. welcome back to work at URI pretty much.
*Internship Interview with my school supervisors - okay, wow. i've been so clueless and nervous up to this point because I have had absolutely NO idea what i was in for, what i would be doing. Apparently, next week i will be interview with The Royal Thames Yacht Club. Yeah. I'm siked and scared sh-izzle-less. AND. right after my interview they have invited me to their cocktail party... ! WHAT !
my supervisors are going to help me decide what to wear, and i'm going to ask them for advice on how to act, and all that stuff. I'm clueless. so any tips of the trade would be fantastic. They said this is a very very posh, upscale place, and i would be working along side the event coordinator, which is going to be amazing. their first intern ever came from richmond last year, and i read her final paper today and she sounds very similiar to me, and had a fabulous experience. i can't wait. but im so scared.
*Went to Kensington Palace this afternoon to see the remembrances for Princess Dianna. Very touching and very nice. Very peaceful. Reminded me slightly of the wall of flowers covering the outside of St. Paul's Cathedral down at Ground Zero.
*Pub Crawl - Really fun, very tired, no time to sit and relax to have a drink, kind of "you have 30 minutes to meet us back here to continue the tour, on your mark get set go!" but still fun. and I GOT TO SEE THE GLOBE. yes, i'm a geek. whatever. and i almost walked into not one, but two poles. and this was before my krista-sized-halfpint. good times.
now we came back here, and i'm dead tired. its almost 12:30 and i',m off to portabello market tomorrow. woot!!
missing you all, will update with details on living/food/friends soon. Hugs.
<3 Krista
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
idk what timezone i'm in, let alone what day it is...
Just a note... I am alive. and found access to a computer for the time being, until i am able to get mine up and started...
altho i'm becoming delusional quite fast. i don't think i've slept in a long time. i honestly don't know what day it is, let alone the time. our flight was delayed (monday afternoon in ny), of course, and i was on the plane for aprox 9 hrs? i think...maybe more. we got to the airport (london) at 8:30 this morning. its 21:55 now, whatever that means.
we unpacked, after lugging all three suitcases up 4 flights of stairs. and by flights i mean double a regular flight of stairs, and add heighth and major corners. went on a walking tour of kensington, which was lovely :) and then went on an adventure to find a few necesities. Tonight we went down to Imperial College to go to the pub there, which was fun. I had cider (no. i dont want to hear it). 75 pence/half pint. sweeet...then half of it was spilt on my shoes by someone. buts its alright...
now, after finding this computer oasis at the bottom of the atlantic house, i must head to bed. i will write a more coheherent entry when i'm not overtired/under fed (ps. the food is AWFUL...details to come)
ILOVEYOU BYE!
<3 Krista
altho i'm becoming delusional quite fast. i don't think i've slept in a long time. i honestly don't know what day it is, let alone the time. our flight was delayed (monday afternoon in ny), of course, and i was on the plane for aprox 9 hrs? i think...maybe more. we got to the airport (london) at 8:30 this morning. its 21:55 now, whatever that means.
we unpacked, after lugging all three suitcases up 4 flights of stairs. and by flights i mean double a regular flight of stairs, and add heighth and major corners. went on a walking tour of kensington, which was lovely :) and then went on an adventure to find a few necesities. Tonight we went down to Imperial College to go to the pub there, which was fun. I had cider (no. i dont want to hear it). 75 pence/half pint. sweeet...then half of it was spilt on my shoes by someone. buts its alright...
now, after finding this computer oasis at the bottom of the atlantic house, i must head to bed. i will write a more coheherent entry when i'm not overtired/under fed (ps. the food is AWFUL...details to come)
ILOVEYOU BYE!
<3 Krista
Friday, August 24, 2007
suitcases, stress and animal crackers
So, to keep all of my loves up to date with life, for the duration of my fleeing the country, Leigh told me I should blog. So blog I will. Now I've never been able to keep a journal or diary for more than a day, apologies ahead of time. Better luck this time around.
For those who didn't know, I'm going to be studying in London for the fall at Richmond the American International University in London. I'm in the internship program/living in Kensington, and will be doing something with Event Planning. I'm also taking a media writing class at night, once a week on campus. I'm planning to stop by Ireland, and Italy if I have the money and have some free time. We also are going to Paris for a weekend, which should be incredible. I'm totally pumped/scared out of my mind. It's going to be an adventure.
The Weekend Update: 3 days until I leave. My suitcase is "too big" by 5 inches according to Virgin's requirements. F that. w/e. Joe and the Berger's contributed generously to compensate. My clothes are sprawled all over my room. I haven't packed a single thing. Just kind of stare at the zippers hoping they'll move on their own. I hope to get on that today. Scratch that. I will get on that today. Goodbyes are in order with a few last minute hangouts, then its off to Long Island to say goodbye to the fam Sunday, and Monday is take off at 6:45 pm. Of course I stocked up on some animal crackers and granola bars for the ride.
There's already a huge week of orientation planned for next week with more tours than I can count, a night at the theatre, a boat dance party, and a pub crawl. Can I handle beer? or "Lager." ehhh. we will soon find out. I've also been advised on a few select phrases I should refrain from using: "bangs" apparently would be very inappropriate when asking for a haircut. A bit risque I guess.
I'm gonna miss you all like woah. I won't have my cell phone once I get on the plane, so call/text me before then. lol. Get Skype. (http://www.skype.com/) It's pretty much talking via the phone, but for free and online. And of course there's always AIM...or facebook stalking...
ILOVEYOUBYE!
<3 Krista
For those who didn't know, I'm going to be studying in London for the fall at Richmond the American International University in London. I'm in the internship program/living in Kensington, and will be doing something with Event Planning. I'm also taking a media writing class at night, once a week on campus. I'm planning to stop by Ireland, and Italy if I have the money and have some free time. We also are going to Paris for a weekend, which should be incredible. I'm totally pumped/scared out of my mind. It's going to be an adventure.
The Weekend Update: 3 days until I leave. My suitcase is "too big" by 5 inches according to Virgin's requirements. F that. w/e. Joe and the Berger's contributed generously to compensate. My clothes are sprawled all over my room. I haven't packed a single thing. Just kind of stare at the zippers hoping they'll move on their own. I hope to get on that today. Scratch that. I will get on that today. Goodbyes are in order with a few last minute hangouts, then its off to Long Island to say goodbye to the fam Sunday, and Monday is take off at 6:45 pm. Of course I stocked up on some animal crackers and granola bars for the ride.
There's already a huge week of orientation planned for next week with more tours than I can count, a night at the theatre, a boat dance party, and a pub crawl. Can I handle beer? or "Lager." ehhh. we will soon find out. I've also been advised on a few select phrases I should refrain from using: "bangs" apparently would be very inappropriate when asking for a haircut. A bit risque I guess.
I'm gonna miss you all like woah. I won't have my cell phone once I get on the plane, so call/text me before then. lol. Get Skype. (http://www.skype.com/) It's pretty much talking via the phone, but for free and online. And of course there's always AIM...or facebook stalking...
ILOVEYOUBYE!
<3 Krista
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