Yesterday, we had our first day trip. We went to Stonehenge, Avebury, and Bath. Stonehenge was a pretty cool pile of rocks. I think we managed to entertain the crowds of Asians and other visitors with our excessive and slightly unique picture-taking. Hopefully they enjoyed their visit.

Probably the best part of it were the plains that stretched out for miles and miles It was exactly what anyone imagines when they picture the English countryside—fog and sheep included.

Avebury was the diamond in the rough. Spread out among various fields of frost, green grass were stone markers with odd cut-outs and amusing character. The cutest little children were running about with pure wonder for this funny phenomenon. There was a quaint shop where we ate lunch and a small courtyard with various buildings scattered about. But, other than that, Avebury had little else to offer than breath-taking, natural scenes and friendly houses housing friendly locals. Completely charming.

Bath was a whole different story. She held such curious sights that it kept me guessing what was around the corner. The history was absolutely fascinating. The elitest of the elite lived and gathered there to be seen and noticed in the upscale society. The unbelievably ancient structures hosted new, bustling shops full of chic merchandise and even chic-er clients. As quick of a run-through that we had, the end was in the actual Roman Baths. They were far more interesting than I had anticipated. The only hot springs in the entire country bubbled in that glorious hall. The taste of the bath water, as magnificent as you might think it would be, is quite…interesting. Not my favorite water flavoring, but I am happy to have tried it. A little bit of Bath will always be inside me. Well… For a bit, at least.

On Friday, we had a tube rallye. That involved a bunch of map-dependent, failure-resulting wandering about in the city. My team came in second. Because we’re champs. The prize was 3 pounds. Doesn’t sound like much, but let me tell you. IT IS. The whole experience allowed us to become comfortably familiar with the tubes, buses, and streets. People were just so nice and eager to help the poor, stupid Americans. It’s difficult, though, trying to politely explain to people that I actually need directions to a lot of places. So, it was pretty much hopeless. They were still slightly amused, which is probably more impressive that getting directions out of them. We ate at a small place called Cagney’s. The food was kinda mediocre, but still pretty great. Probably because it’s in freaking London. (I’m a tough critic, after all.) I can’t wait to try more food around here, though. There are so many neat places to grab a bite. But all this walking will definitely keep me from gaining any new pounds at all.

Speaking of pounds…

I’ve finally cracked this mysterious coin system they call currency. It’s like a game now. And I’m totally winning.

Day one was brutal.
Early morning from Vicksburg to the airport and then on to the flight. As miserable as it was, the drugs and excitement helped to ease the process. Upon arrival, I cried.

I know.

I mean, I literally cried. When I walked out of the airport and breathed my first breath of English air, my emotions got the best of me. We took a coach (the door was on the left side, by the way) to London while passing through the outskirts. They were a bit sketchy looking, but coming into London was unmistakable. Clean, busy, and blindingly British. The people are fabulous and the sights are too precious to believe. Thinking of all the history and character dancing throughout the city gives me a chill. I almost don’t feel like I am truly here.

We are staying at the Celtic Hotel in Bloomsbury, right next to Russell Square. The Celtic is run by a peculiar little voice owned by a funny little woman. Her relationship with Mississippi College goes much further than strictly business. She and the amazing staff go out of their ways to be gracious hosts and help us make a comfortable transition to our new lives. This is home, after all. My room lies on the face of the hotel. Happy, unfamiliar accents go babbling by outside my window. I don’t know what they say and I don’t really care. It’s just refreshing to hear at all.

Yep.  This is definitely ok with me.

Well, packing is all done and the tunes have been updated.  I’m not sure what to expect when I get on that big Boeing 767 tomorrow, but I know it’s going to be an adventure that will change my life. 

Goodbye, America.

Hello, motherland.

Let’s do this.

From Silent Dogwood’s “This is London”

(Check it out.)