caitlyn in london

British Museum

2009-08-06T17:32:00.006-06:00

While Dave was in London we went to the British Museum together. We saw the Rosetta Stone and the missing pieces to the Parthenon Frieze. Dave and I just saw the Parthenon while we were in Athens. It was an interesting museum with more than 3 million objects.

The British Museum

The Rosetta Stone! The Rosetta Stone has both Greek and Egyptian writing on it using 3 scripts: hieroglyphic, demotic and Greek. The stone was carved in 196 B.C.. The stone was found by French soldiers in a small village in the Delta called Rosetta in 1799. The text is written by a group of priests in Egypt to honour the Egyptian Pharaoh. Pretty amazing to see in person!

Pieces of the Parthenon frieze. It is a controversy that the British museum has these remains and the Greek Government has asked for them back and to be taken off display in London.

The London Eye

2009-08-06T17:03:00.004-06:00

After living in London you forget how exciting it is to see the London Eye! Probably because I saw the eye on a weekly basis. I couldn't wait to ride the London Eye but waited for Dave and Chelsea's visit so we could all ride the eye together. I'm glad I waited for their visit, because I don't think I'd pay to go on the eye twice. The London Eye also known as the Millennium Wheel is the biggest Ferris Wheel in Europe. The London Eye is something I will miss seeing so often. Here are a few of my favorite London Eye photos I have.

Me and Chelsea on the London eye

Connie Wagner, Me, Kate Eckersley on our first visit to the London Eye

Connie, Me, Kate

The London Eye

Buckingham Palace

2009-08-06T13:30:00.003-06:00

Buckingham Palace is a very busy part of town bustling with tourists. The changing of the guard is worth (trying) to see. You have to go very early to beat all the other tourists to be able to see the actual changing of the guard. I have not been able to get there early enough and refuse to wake up any earlier. But I've enjoyed my visits to Buckingham Palace. Loads of people from all over the world and most willing to take a picture of you if you will take a picture for them. Except for the Asian old man who looked at me with this scared and shocked face and walked away.

The Band playing Austin Powers or Harry Potter

Zach and Daniel (our BYU intern friends) Me, Jenna, Melissa, Sarah

Courtney Burrows, Abby Woodland, Maren Marcy, Me, Sarah Mabey, Erin Wetzel

The Queen's London residence

Chartwell a.k.a. Winston Churchill's Home

2009-08-06T13:24:00.002-06:00

While in the town of Kent on our last day trip, we stopped in Chartwell, at Winston Churchill's home. It is completely furnished just as it was when he and his wife lived here. It is a great big home with lots of land and sits near the lake. It is a dream home basically. We even got to go inside Churchill's private art studio. Painting was his hobby, and it is filled with his work.

Hever Castle

2009-08-06T13:08:00.002-06:00

Our last day trip with Study Abroad. I can't believe that I am near the end of the program. I enjoyed our day trip to Hever Castle. It is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The grounds, gardens, and scenery were fantastic. The sun was shining bright (a rarity) and it was just a fun day to be outside.

Chelsea, Me, Sarah, Alyssa

oh the photo shoots we do!

Sarah, Me, Chelsea, Erin, Alyssa

Top: Jenna Harris, Erin Wetzel, Molly Turner, Ana Pinegar, Sarah Mabey, Caitlyn (me), Abby Woodland, Elizabeth Smart, Chelsea Price. Bottom: Sarah Hansen, Mary Williams, Kate Eckersley, Alyssa Esmond.

Hever Castle

Regent's Park

2009-08-06T12:48:00.002-06:00

We went to Regent's Park on a late Sunday afternoon. It is one of the Royal Parks of London; and absolutely gorgeous. I enjoyed sitting in the park and calling up family and friends to say hello and chat for a bit. The scenery is just breathtaking and I wish we would have discovered this park earlier.

Me and Abby Woodland

Abby Woodland, Me, Sarah Mabey

Out and About in Paris

2009-07-31T20:55:00.004-06:00

Word of mouth that this is the best crepe place in Paris... So of course we went!

Alyssa and Me at Laduree--A very fancy place famous for their macaroons.

Here I am at Champs-Elysees! Oh, it is lovely!

I have fallen in love with Paris. It makes you want to be in love.

Eiffel Tower

2009-07-31T20:01:00.006-06:00

This was my first stop as soon as I arrived in Paris. The Eiffel Tower is amazing and there is something magical about it. The moment I turned the corner and saw it with my own eyes, I fell in LOVE!

View from the top

We walked the 700 steps to the top! It was awesome!

Me, Sarah Mabey, Mary Williams

Taking in the beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower for the first time!

Breathtaking

The city of Love. I don't know what it is, but I just fell in Love with Paris!

Eiffel Tower light show

Me, Sarah, Erin, Alyssa, Chelsea

Sparkle light show!

Ana, Jenna, Alyssa, Me, Sarah, Erin, Abby, Molly

Arc de Triomphe

2009-07-31T19:40:00.003-06:00

The Arc de Triomphe is a monument in Paris. It is the second largest triumphal arch in existence. The triumphal arch honors those who fought for France. Underneath is the tomb of the unknown soldier for World War I.

We stopped in the middle of the crosswalk to get this great shot!

We climbed to the top of the arc to watch the Eiffel Tower light show.

Mary Williams, Chelsea Price, Me, Erin Wetzel, Alyssa Esmond, Sarah Mabey

Oh the fun we have with cameras! In the stairwell to the top.

At the top with Erin Wetzel, Sarah Mabey, Me, Alyssa Esmond, Chelsea Price

Musee d'Orsay

2009-07-16T10:49:00.003-06:00

The d'Orsay. I was very excited to visit this museum, because they have many pieces by Van Gogh, Edgar Degas, Renoir, and Monet. I was shocked that we were able to take pictures of these amazing pieces of art and history.

Me, Alyssa Esmond, Mary Williams

Renoir-Dance at eh Moulin de La Galett. Renoir captured sunny, “carefree” Parisian life with the happy “smiling” faces of his dancers.

Monet- Notre Dame. Monet would go sit outside the front of Notre Dame and paint the church exactly how it was at that time of day. They displayed 4 of these paintings, each with difference in sunlight, color and shadow. It was really cool to see these side by side and to know Monte's purpose for these paintings.

Van Gogh- Noon rest from work. I am amazed by almost every Van Gogh I see. I feel lucky to have seen so many with my own eyes. He is truly one of my favorite artists. Most of his paintings are so consistent with his style. More often than not you know when you're viewing a Van Gogh.

Van Gogh- The Bedroom. This is the painting I was so excited to see. I couldn't believe that I was standing right in front of this famous painting. Also, this is one of Andrew's (my brother) favorite paintings too. I couldn't wait to show him. This is Van Gogh's bedroom in the year 1888 in Arles. I love the detail of the portraits above his bed.

Pantheon

2009-07-16T10:33:00.002-06:00

The Pantheon was originally a grand church but is no longer a house of worship but a public temple. Sarah Mabey and I headed to visit this large building together. We had a little trouble finding its location, but as soon as we turned a corner, BAM its right there.

The Crypt, where Victor Hugo (writer of Les Miserables and The Hunchback of Notre Dame) is buried.

Pendulum

Les Invalides

2009-06-04T16:48:00.002-06:00

This museum is huge. It contains 3 war museums. My friend Alyssa and I had a fun time roaming around and seeing all the uniforms, armory and weapons. It really is neat to see. It used to be a hospital and retirement home for war veterans. Also, Napoleon Bonaparte's tomb is located here and it is pretty large.

Orangerie

2009-06-04T16:42:00.002-06:00

The Orangerie was a pretty museum. I went with Sarah Mabey and we enjoyed that this museum isn't huge, it was doable. I am enjoying that I am recognizing certain artists and pieces of art.

Wasn't ready for this picture... but it does the job

I was excited to see this piece by Renoir. My mom has this painting hanging in her house.

Notre Dame

2009-06-04T16:32:00.002-06:00

Notre Dame was one of my favorite visits in Paris. Sarah, Mary, Alyssa and Me had fun climbing the stairs to the top to see the great views and of course the Great Bell. The gargoyles were cool and it was just unreal being there in person. After our visit we had lunch at cafe Esmeralda and of course crepes for dessert. It was a fun day!

The Great Bell

Me and Sarah with Joan of Arc

Notre Dame

My favorite Gargoyle picture

Allergies in Paris!

2009-06-04T15:25:00.003-06:00

When I arrived in Paris, I soon started to feel sick. Watery eyes, scratchy throat, stuffy nose. I was miserable by day two. So I went to the Pharmacy and asked if he spoke English. I am lucky he did. I told him every symptom and he diagnosed me with allergies. I guess the pollen is pretty bad in Paris. I was so relieved once the meds kicked in. I bought eye drops, nasal spray and allergy pills. It was worth it to enjoy Paris allergy free!

ready to load up on allergy meds

Ah! 30 seconds later and I feel 100% better!

Sainte Chapelle

2009-06-04T13:18:00.002-06:00

Here we are at Sainte Chapelle. I didn't know too much about this church, but as soon as I walked up the stairs and turned the corner, my jaw dropped. The stained glass windows are gorgeous! I was experiencing some serious allergies and was miserable! I looked like I was crying.

Me, Alyssa and Mary waiting in the security line

Sainte Chapelle

Beautiful and Jaw Dropping

Me, Mary, Sarah, Alyssa

LOUVRE

2009-06-04T12:30:00.003-06:00

I've finally made it to Paris! I have fallen in LOVE with Paris! It is amazing here. I went to the Louvre and it is phenomenal. The building is just gorgeous. I was most anxious to see the Mona Lisa, of course. I went with my two friends Sarah Mabey and Mary Williams. We had a good time and tried to soak up as much as we could. I was surprised they let you take pictures.

I can't believe I'm here!!!

There she is

Nope, not pregnant. It was warm in the building so I stood on top of the air conditioning vent to cool off.

I have really come to enjoy art, especially nudes...

BRIGHTON--Bodiam Castle

2009-06-02T10:59:00.002-06:00

Another famous Wednesday Day Trip with the group. We traveled to Brighton. Here I am at Bodiam Castle. It is said to be a perfect example of a late medieval moated castle. This was one of my favorite castles we've visited. I picked out which room would be mine. The land was beautiful and we had a fun time roaming around.

Me, Sara, Abby

I'm wearing the "removable sleeves" from Ana's jacket; it was pretty chilly

Me and Anna

Preston Temple and LDS tour

2009-06-01T16:15:00.003-06:00

Our last stop on our 5 day trip. We are so anxious to get home but I am so glad we made this stop. The temple was beautiful! We also had a LDS tour around the area by the Temple Presidents son. The tour was really neat. I wish we could have stayed here overnight to be able to attend the temple. But we loaded the bus and headed back to London. I could not wait to get home. I was ready to say goodbye to hostels, the coach bus and our coach driver Tony for a while.

Preston Temple

Me and Elizabeth

The plaque of The First Latter-Day-Saints in Great Britain

Me and Abby in 50 years

Bowder Stone

2009-06-01T16:11:00.002-06:00

Our last day of 5 days of York. We are so anxious to get home, but our first stop for the day was to Bowder Stone. This is a huge rock and you can walk underneath it, just hope that is doesn't tip over when you're under it.

Sarah and Me on Bowder Stone. Our professors were so worried we were going to fall. I let them know strait away "I'm a Wilson"

Dove Cottage

2009-06-01T16:08:00.003-06:00

Dove Cottage was a fun stop. We had a tour guide that was really sweet. The house was really cute and fun. The gardens were pretty too.

ANDREW!!! I had to get a picture of Andrew's tour bus! The kids on the bus had no idea what I was doing.
Dove Cottage

Bronte Parsonage Museum

2009-06-01T16:00:00.004-06:00

Yes, we are still on our 5 day trip through York. We stopped off at Bronte Museum. This is the house where the Bronte family lived. Well known as the Bronte Sisters, were authors of books such as Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. No pictures were allowed. However there was a nearby grave site, church and lots of fields with sheep.

When you find a treasure like a "Smile, Jesus Loves You" frisbee, a picture is necessary

Abby, Me, Sarah

nearby church

Hawkshead Grammar School

2009-06-01T15:53:00.003-06:00

Another neat stop to Hawkshead School. This is a very old school that was founded in 1585 where they would be in class from 6am to 6pm. Poet William Wordsworth attended here as a boy and they know where he sat due to the graffiti all over the desks. Just like I would, they carved into the woods of the desk their names. The tour guide was cool and entertaining and full of historical information. He made this stop quite fun.

Sarah, Abby and Me

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

2009-06-01T15:44:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday to Me! It was my 23rd Birthday during our study abroad 5 day trip through York. I wasn't too keen on celebrating in Ambleside, but my great friends made it really special. The off season in Ambleside is just that... OFF. Most everything was closed, but we found a restaurant and I was spoiled with 4 scoops of gelato! Yummy. I enjoyed my birthday! Yikes I'm 23 now!

My Birthday Dessert

Elizabeth, Connie, Sarah, Molly, McKell, Ana, Seph, Mckenzie, Alexa, Abby, Chelsea, Erin, Me

Ambleside--The Lake District

2009-06-01T15:38:00.002-06:00

Ambleside is gorgeous. Our hostel was nasty, but it was located right on the lake. Breathtaking sunsets and great weather. I would love to go back to Ambleside... but not the hostel.

Gorgeous!

Erin, Me, Sarah, Abby, Mary

Sarah, Abby, Me

Breathtaking!

Hadrian's Wall

2009-06-01T15:30:00.003-06:00

Hadrian's Wall was build by the Roman Empire across the width of Northern England. We went to two locations to view Hadrian's Wall. It was cool to see and great to be outside after being in a coach bus for so long! The weather was great and refreshing. Our trip to Hadrian's Wall turned into our own personal photo shoot.

Molly, Ana, Sarah, Me, Abby

Molly, Me, Ana, Abby

Hadrian's Wall.. so cold!

Abby, Me, Ana, Sarah

Durham Cathedral

2009-06-01T15:22:00.003-06:00

Still on our 5 day trip throughout York. We stopped at Durham Cathedral, yes another cathedral. It was dark, gloomy and felt older than any other cathedral I've visited. We had a tour guide show us around. The experience was odd, but of course I found a way to enjoy myself.

Abby and Me

The Lost Lambs

Sarah and Me

Bolton Castle

2009-06-01T15:04:00.004-06:00

Here we are at Bolton Castle. The views from the top are so pretty. It was green and the view goes forever. We had a great time taking pictures.

Gorgeous View

Me, Molly, Sarah

Abby, Sarah and Me inside the Castle

Me and Abby, Good Horsey

Me, Erin, Sarah, Abby at the top of Bolton Castle

Classic pose

I'm Innocent

Abby, Me and Sarah striking a pose

The National Trust Fountians Abbey

2009-06-01T14:53:00.003-06:00

Another stop on our 5 day York trip. This stop is The National Trust Fountains Abbey. It is a gorgeous property that is filled with ponds, fountains, history and of course the ruins of Fountains Abbey. It was a pretty cloudy and chilly day, but it was worth walking around and seeing how beautiful the grounds are. You can get a annual pass to The National Trust to just come and walk around. While I was exiting, there was this elderly women with her annual pass going in for a walk.

I love the reflection of the trees on the pond

Fountains Abbey

Sarah and Me at the statue of a beheaded Ann Bolen

Ta-Da! It is Beautiful here!

Me, Sarah, Ana, Abby, Molly in front of Fountains Abbey

York Minster

2009-06-01T14:32:00.004-06:00

We are on a 5 day trip through YORK. We drove to Leeds and spent the night in a nice hotel. It was nice to sleep in a decent room knowing that we will be in a hostel in a few days. While in York we first stopped at York Minster, yes, another Abbey. It was pretty. There we saw a religious group practicing their upcoming performance. We also climbed the 300+ steps to the top to see beautiful views of York. Sarah Mabey and I spent the rest of the day walking around York. We found a "dollar" store and bought candy for only 1 pound! Such a deal. We had a good time roaming around.

York Minster

Sarah and Me at the top of York Minster... 300+ steps later

Jenessa, Me, Abby taking in the pretty views of York

Me, Abby, Sarah, Chelsea on top of York Minster

Dave and Chels in London!

2009-05-13T00:03:00.007-06:00

The best week ever in LONDON!!! Dave and Chelsea came out for a visit! I was so excited!! We went to Greece for 5 days then we headed back to London for another 5 days of touring and fun! When it came time for Dave and Chels to head back to the U.S. of A... I got totally homesick and missed them for days! I stayed in bed the entire day they left because I was sad they went home without me. We had such a great time and I will keep these memories with me for a long while!

Blowing Kisses--mwah!

Me and Chelsea in Trafalgar Square

Big Ben!

Big Ben at night!
I took Dave and Chels here their first night in London--It was so fun!

Dave and me at Natural History Museum

Chels and Dave packed a "few" pieces of my clothing, so I had more room in my luggage to come home with... Chels was a doll and helped me pack a bit. I am so glad I sent stuff home with Dave and Chels so I had extra room for souvenirs !

Embassy Road

Cafe' Diana... Dave's checkin out the menu while Chels and I are admiring Dave's Fanny... pack.

Yep! I got Cranberry while at Bourough Market..YUM!

Cousins!

Taste testing smelly European cheese

Dave hesitating to taste test the smelly blue cheese! "Are you sure that's not mold... cause that looks like mold"-Dave

Tower of Brownies!!! Believe it or not that tower sells out within just a couple of hours! (I didn't think they were that great... I still like Betty Crocker Fudge Brownies out of the box)

London Eye

Struttin Chelsea's collection of Sunglasses... This was my favorite day! I met up with Dave and Chels after they visited Tower of London, and we ate our packed lunches by the river near Tower Bridge! I loved having them here in London with me! I'm a lucky girl!

I hate OLIVES!

2009-04-10T18:53:00.002-06:00

In Hydra Chelsea, Kate and Dave dared me to eat the strongest olives known to man... Dave wagered dinner at Tucanos. So of course I had to follow through. *These are real photos--There are no actors portrayed in this slide show*

Here we go... the 2 olives are now in my mouth waiting to be chewed.
Chels offering me bread to help the taste

I don't think I am going to make it...

Did I mention they have pits in them?

removing the pit... disgusting

ATHENS pt.3

2009-04-10T18:40:00.002-06:00

Sunset at the highest point in Athens. It was beautiful. All I wanted to do was watch the sunset in Greece.

Chels and I! I remember living in Hawaii, someone told me that sunsetting is the best and most flattering lighting ... so we had a photo shoot

At Socrates prison, Dave pointed this out and I freaked out because I thought it was a snake! But it is a trail of caterpillars! Crazy huh! Small Hands is modeling for the comparison.

Socrates Prison

Dave and I at Pynx where Socrates taught

ATHENS pt.2

2009-04-10T18:29:00.002-06:00

ATHENS!

The girls

Parthanon

my picture that I think turned out pretty cool

Me at the Parthanon! I couldn't believe I was seeing it with my own eyes (which are getting worse by the way... I think I need glasses)

ATHENS pt.1

2009-04-10T17:43:00.002-06:00

Dave and I finished our Rick Steves Athens walk tour and ended in Monastiraki Square. We grabbed Gyros and sat in the square watching these two performers. They are native americans, dressed like Indians, with cacti and a painting of an Indian and a teepe. The best part is they sang in Greek! Hilarious!

Olympic Stadium. Seats 50,000

Zues' Temple

Arch

Me with the Guard of the Unknown Soldier

HYDRA pt. 4

2009-04-06T04:11:00.003-06:00

Dave and I went to a nearby pebble beach in hopes for some sun... it was freezing! But I refused to bundle up while at the beach. We ate a yummy pomegranate that we purchased at a market on the way. It was a fun day.

So happy to be at the beach!!!!

a bridge we had to cross on the way to the beach!

The view on the way to the pebble beach!

Hydra! I loved it here!

HYDRA pt. 3

2009-04-06T03:59:00.004-06:00

When we first arrived to Hydra! So excited!

Beautiful

Our hotel private deck... Dave is wearing his Greece outfit: Linen Shirt and Linen Pants

They loved daring me to eat the strong olives... I got a dinner with dessert at Tucanos for it... not too shabby!

Rock climbing

HYDRA pt. 2

2009-04-06T03:51:00.003-06:00

yeah... not the greatest shot... but my hand is in the Mediterranean

Me and Chelsea on our deck of the hotel

Chels is knocked out on our ferry ride to Hydra... Hilarious

Dancing at Club RED in Hydra... too funny! The Greek only have one dance move!

Me "crying" in the closet of our hotel room... they ganged up on me and I got embarrassed and hid in the closet... it was funny.

HYDRA pt.1

2009-04-06T03:29:00.003-06:00

Hydra (EE-Dra) Port--Locals boat into work... there are no cars on the island of Hydra

Our hotel room in Hydra... so so so so so nice!

Our view from our deck of our hotel room! AMAZING!

Hydra Greece on our way to the hotel

Chels, Me and Kate at Athens waiting to board the ferry to Hydra

Who Knew?!

2009-04-06T03:20:00.003-06:00

Who Knew? Indeed parts of the UK do make sense. I live about 7 minutes (walking) from TK MAXX! I remember turning the corner and in bright red lights screamed TK MAXX... I laughed for a bit. It is the same as TJ MAXX; they even use the same clearance sticker. I bought a pretty yellow Max Studio dress that I found one day during my walk/jog. I hid it the day I found it and went back the next day to purchase it! I was glad that it was still there. If you come to London, be sure to hit the TK MAXX on High Street Kensington.

Once in a lifetime pictures...

2009-03-15T15:23:00.003-06:00

My friend Abby snapped this picture of a one footed pigeon... This other leg was like a peg... it was hilarious but we found ourselves feeling bad for it. But I hate pigeons...

Me with the City of London far behind me

Greenwich

2009-03-15T15:07:00.003-06:00

Day Trip to Greenwich. We took a boat tour on the Thames River to Greenwich. It was chilly, but fun. We saw the World clock that keeps everyone on schedule. We went to the planetarium and to the Maritime museum. It was a fun and quick trip.

Abby and Me at one of the clocks

Me and Sarah outside the Maritime museum

Erin, Chelsea, Abby, Sarah, Me on the River Thames Tour

Abby, Sarah, Me... St. Paul's behind us

Abby, Sarah and Me... London Eye behind us

Amazing Find!!!

2009-03-15T14:54:00.003-06:00

So I was shopping at Urban Outfitters one day and stumbled upon this little number and had to try it on! It wasn't a perfect fit but a perfect outfit! This puppy was 5 pounds!!!! My friend Abby bought it hahaha. I would have if I could spare 5 pounds... but the pounds are slim... no pun intended. In this dress I felt a tad like Erin/Kelly Taylor from 90210. It was really pretty :)

Blenhiem Palace

2009-03-15T14:30:00.005-06:00

This is the place where the new movie "Young Victoria" was filmed. They had an exhibit of their wardrobe and pictures from the movie. It was cool. This was one of my top castle/palace's we have visited. You take a little 5 minute train to the maze and butterfly house. It was lots of fun and really pretty. I could see myself living there...

Masquerade! Sarah, Abby, Me

Look how cool the inside of the wings are... they were so bright and this was a cool shot because the butterfly didn't open up like this often.

This one just came and landed on my hand. Kind of gross but had to get a picture!

We finally found our way out of the Maze! I was getting sick of being lost so I went to the ladder and mapped out our exit... it worked!

Abby, Me, Sarah

On the train to the maze and butterfly house

Abby, Steph, Sarah, Me

Chess anyone? I've never seen them that big... that's what she said hahahhaha

Me at Blenhiem Palace, this is where "Young Victoria" was mostly filmed

Abby and Me lost in the maze

Side yard... not a big deal

Stratford upon Avon--a.k.a. William Shakespeare's neighborhood

2009-03-15T13:29:00.005-06:00

Our day trip/overnighter to Stratford upon Avon was a fun trip. Luckily this time our hostel wasn't as bad as my first hostel experience. Stratford was cool. I stuck with my buddies Abby and Sarah. We roamed around and took in everything Stratford had to offer... even if it takes a lot of optimism.

Abby, Me, Sarah in William Shakespeare's grand-daughters Elizabeth's house

We saw a Shakespeare play that night in Stratford. His plays don't have copyrights, so they can tweak it anyway they'd like. We saw a african version of The Tempest. It was ok... I fell asleep.

Me, Sarah, Abby

Sarah, William and Me

Lifesize paper dolls with no paper... Sarah, Abby and Me

Milking the "cow" at the farm where Shakespeare's mother grew up

bawk bawk

Me, chicken, Abby

Abby, Me, Sarah

Who Who Who's that on my arm... Angus the Owl

This is where William Shakespeare is burried... we had to pay 50 pence to see it hahaha

Abby, Me and Sarah at Shakespear's wife's house where she grew up

Oliver starring Rowan Atkinson!

2009-03-15T12:48:00.003-06:00

We scored tickets to the sold out show of Oliver starring Rowan Atkinson a.k.a. Mr. Bean. It was great! I really enjoyed it. We went to the stage door afterward to wait for Mr. Bean. I felt a little awkward but it was funny. There were people lined up and ready for autographs. I got his autograph and talked to him for half a second and we snapped a picture. It was funny. He isn't Mr. Bean in person at all... he's more like Uncle Tom. He did a great job playing Fagen. You should go see it.

Mr. Bean

Abby, Me, Bean, Sarah

So excited hahaha

OLIVER

Carmen Opera

2009-03-15T12:31:00.003-06:00

Our study abroad group went to see the opera Carmen. The walk over was hilarious and horrible. The wind was out of control with a nice amount of rain. I looked like a mess. My umbrella broke and I tried to cover up as much as I could. I had to hold my umbrella open and close so it wouldn't blow away. It was so funny but no fun at all. Carmen wasn't my favorite. I fell asleep in the first 5 minutes. My friends woke me up laughing that I had already fallen asleep. I struggled to stay awake during the entire thing. It was pretty boring even with it being in English. I did recognize a few of the songs though and that was fun. But I'm not really into the opera thing.

Me and Abby looking like a mess from the rain/wind

Action shot... I'm miserable in the wind and rain. The oragne umbrella is Abby's and it broke too!

Phantom of the Opera

2009-03-15T11:25:00.004-06:00

I finally saw it. I remember being young around 5 or 6 and the family went to see Phantom with the Lee family too. I remember throwing a fit because I couldn't go and I really really wanted to, but Andrew and I had to stay home with the baby sitter. The best part is that Chels remembers her family going to it too and she threw a fit as well because she wanted to go. It was great. I really did enjoy it. Better than what I was expecting. We had loads of fun. We met the Phantom afterwards and got his autograph. He's a no namer... but maybe one day. But I have no idea what his name is and no one can make out his signature. But we had fun and got a picture with him. He was 6'7. Really really tall.

Erin, Me, Sarah, Abby out in Picadilly Circus

Erin, Abby, Me

Erin and Me... my hand looks large (darn photography)

Erin, Me, Abby, Sarah... do we take too many pictures? I think we might.

Taming of the Shrew

2009-03-15T10:54:00.003-06:00

Taming of the Shrew was quite the experience. Lets just say I would be mortified watching it with my parents and would spank my kids if they saw it. I forget how british humor is, but I was reminded during the play. We had a good time though.

Abby, me, Erin just purchased our tickets

Andrea, Patrice, Janna, Mary, Connie, Erin, Me, Sarah, Abby

Me and Sarah enjoying our free waters

Billy Elliot

2009-03-03T04:47:00.003-07:00

My friend Sarah and I went to see Billy Elliot. It was great. I really enjoyed the cast. I couldn't wait to call Erin and talk to her about the show... too bad she's gone all Hollywood and didn't have time last time I talked to her hahahaha. Anyway. We really had a good time. My friends and I have a pact to go out at night no matter what. We've been doing a good job of it too.

I really need a hair cut wa a ahhoooooo

The weather is getting a tad warmer and I am loving it!!!

Stoke Poges Church

2009-03-03T03:59:00.004-07:00

The last stop of our Wednesday Day Trip! Stoke Poges Church. We went in for the tour guides speech, I sat on the bench and wanted to pass out. I had no more energy. I was surprised that I made it through Windsor Castle. But this was my breaking point. So I opted to go back onto the bus and sleep (I fell asleep to watching the office episodes on my Ipod). Here are the few shots that I did get. The group informed me later that "you didn't miss anything" so that was good to hear!

This is me passed out on the bench. I headed back to the bus about 2 minutes after they took this picture and slept... windsor castle wore me out

WINDSOR CASTLE!

2009-03-03T03:30:00.003-07:00

This is by far one of the most fun castles our group has visited. Windsor Castle was stop 2 of our day trip! I was nervous that I wouldn't make it, but we took it slow and I did just fine, I was exhausted by the end... but it was worth it! The Queen resides in Windsor on the weekends. They currently house royal guests often. We watched the Changing of the Guard and it was so much fun because I was front row (until this grandma asked me if her kids could go in front of me so they could see). I was about an arms length away from the soldiers or "beef eaters" as they are called. The band played music, including the theme to Austin Powers. It was fun! We saw the Queens doll collection and doll house that is complete with electrical and plumbing! I of course joined a tour guide group. We got to tour the house where the royal guests stay. It was really pretty and I kept thinking how Grandma Irene has the same decorating style haha~ I went to the church/cathedral on the property. Every Royal has been buried there since Queen Victoria. The queen's parents are buried there and grandparents. When (heaven forbid of course) the Queen passes, she will be buried in this church as well. It was really a fun castle and I'm glad I felt well enough to tour around!

Abby was sneaky and took this picture of the chandelier in the royal house
Me, Abby and Sarah outside of where the Queen resides on weekends

This is where they keep the records of anything and everything taken. There are actual written letters from pass royalty. This is high security and no one is allowed in. Also they added the top level to this building not too long ago, because they wanted it to be seen from afar.

Abby and Me at the Chuch/Cathedral

so happy

look at that beast of a knife! It was in front of my face!

This was such a fun Changing of the Guard... I was so close to the "action"

Thier uniforms always make me giggle... they're shoes are like goofy's

Very exciting/awkward moment. I love being a tourist! I was afraid to get too close

Magna Carta!!!

2009-03-03T03:23:00.003-07:00

My first stop on our Windsor Castle day trip. Well actually, the first stop the group made I stayed on the bus sleeping, because this is the day after my pancreatic attack--I was not feeling too hot all day (as you can tell in the pictures I'm posting!). Here we are at the memorial site for where the Magna Carta was signed! I have seen 2 of the 4 Magna Carta letters so far!

"Three Lost Lambs" Sarah, Me and Abby

Flashback to nights at the Pub!

2009-03-03T02:54:00.003-07:00

A little flashback to my first two weeks in London. Kings Head is a nearby pub and we (Me, Kate, Connie and Amy) met a group of High School Norwegians on a school trip. I've never witnessed 18 year olds who handled their liquor so well. I pretty much laughed the entire night... my "real" laugh! Good Times.

Yes, I believe that I am holding him up so he wont tip over

I splurged on a bottle of water... ooooo!

Shakespears Globe Theater

2009-03-03T02:34:00.004-07:00

Our group took a tour of Shakespeare's Globe. This isn't the original globe theatre, the original is about 2 miles away. They rebuilt this one for fire code reasons and structure. They kept everything the same as the original except the exit rows and stair ways are a tad wider. I learned a lot on our tour about Shakespeare and his writing. Back in Shakespeare day, the would perform around 2 pm because they had to arrange performances around sunlight. There wasn't the lighting technology like we have today, so his writing had to be very descriptive, describing their faces and movements so the audience would know what was going on.

I wonder if "super soft ice" (the truck behind me) is like Mr. Softys??

I think I might burn this coat when I get home... I'm getting sick of it :) Look at Janna yawning in the background

Me and Sarah

Stage (they have to touch up the paint each season becuase the sun bleaches it)

open ceiling

Coventry Cathedral

2009-02-24T04:07:00.003-07:00

Our last stop of the day. You wouldn't think that we would go on a trip and not stop at a Cathedral! This is Coventry Cathedral in the town of Coventry in the center of Coventry University. This was destroyed by a bombing back in the war days and parts of it were left standing. However they did build on a new modern part. It was a Cathedral Stop... enough said. We headed over to the Campus Art Museum and used the toilets (I hate how they say that here) and shopped in the gift shop. Abby, Sara and I purchased jump ropes for 1 pound. We decided this would be a form of exercise that we can encourage each other to do. We actually used them that night. We worked out after being cooped up in the coach for three days. I have to say... I'm still pretty tricky with a jump rope. Next task to master.. Double Dutch! old bombed part and new modern part

When they came and searched the remains, they discovered this "cross" that was in this exact formation after being destroyed ... I think they thought it was pretty neat

Me in the old destroyed part... I'm enjoying myself can't you tell?

The cool colorful windows. This symbolizes something.

Me (self snap shot) waiting for the crew to finish up so we can head out and back to London

The town of Chester... Chester Molester!

2009-02-24T04:00:00.003-07:00

Day three of our Wales trip we first stopped in Chester. Chester Molester. This was a really fun town. Like downtown park city. Filled with shopping and delis. The Three Lambs (Me, Sarah and Abby) stuck together and roamed around the town. We found this roman garden to take some "proof I've been here" shots. I really enjoyed my time in Chester just browsing. It was great. For lunch we stopped at a deli and had some yummy sandwiches. Once again loaded the bus and onto our last destination.

Sarah, Me, Abby

Abby, Sarah, Me (We are the Lost Lambs) I'll blog about that later too.

In the hat store. I loved these! I was ready to attend a horse race or something fancy like that haha

Beaumaris

2009-02-24T03:16:00.004-07:00

A new day! Spent on the coach. We drove for 7 hours not including the two break stops (mandatory for the coach driver every 3-4 hours). When we boarded the coach we had no idea that we would be on the bus for the majority of the day. I was getting cramped and annoyed near the end, because these are not comfy seats to sleep in. Beaumaris is a town on and Island of the British Isles. It was a really neat town. It was like a small town/beach town. We arrived at Beaumaris castle first and it was kind of rainy. We quickly ran through this unfinished castle. I think I was uninterested because I've been cooped up in a coach bus for what felt like EVER. We finished the castle around 3:45. I ran to the local bakery and purchased 3 of these Wales toffee waffles (you should google it, I'll blog on it later I'm sure). They are the best thing I've found here yet! I saved some to send home!!! Luckily I went in the bakery when I did because the entire "town" (which consists of 1 main street) shuts down between 4-4:30. But you know me I hit the water first. Well it was freezing but I walked the boardwalk and just loved every minute of it. I love the beach/water. It is one of my most favorite spots to be. We checked into our Hotel. After our Hostel experience I felt like I was staying at the Plaza! That tells you how "good" the hostel was, if I'm comparing the Best Western Hotel to the Plaza! The best part is, BYU standards can only allow 2 persons to a room. So we were assigned a roommate. I lucked out and got my best buddy here, Sarah. We had a 3 course restaurant dinner, waited on and everything by the hotel. Sarah and I went back to the room and took advantage of the bath tub and shower and privacy! I was in the bath for probably 60 minutes then hopped into the shower for another 30 or so. It was great! We watched a movie on TV, wrote in our journals, and read our scriptures and couldn't wait to turn in for the night. It was great! We got up for another waited on Breakfast and loaded the bus for another adventure!

Me at Beaumaris castle

The center of Beaumaris castle

Boardwalk

Me and Kate on the "Beach" freezing to the bone

"Our Plaza Hotel" the Best Western... our group was the majority of guests that night

My first Hostel experience... I miss the Fairfield Inn

2009-02-24T03:01:00.003-07:00

Well we ended our first day of Wales at the youth hostel. Um... gross. Not everything was bad, but my bed situation was bad. You get a fresh clean set of sheets to make your bed. I took mine out of the "packaging" and there was a dried booger or dead bug on it. I'm not sure because I removed it so fast before I could tell. I was proud of myself because I kept my disgust to myself and didn't complain. Then it was time to put my duvet into its cover. I saw a hair up close and removed it, then I focused my eyes back looking and more surface area of the duvet and it was covered in hairs. I threw up in my mouth. Again, I kept quiet and just put the duvet cover on without touching the actual duvet. I slept like a corpse that night. First of all, it was a small twin. My friend Abby slept in this impossible twin size bed with me because her bed had an ace bandage hanging down from the bunk (we assume used for elevation of limbs of a prior guest). I used my neck pillow for my pillow, layered on clothes and only put the blanket over my feet. I barely moved all night. I couldn't wait to just get up and hit the road. There was no way in H E double hockey sticks that I was going to attempt a shower at the hostel. I opted to wait til our next stop at the Best Western Hotel. Smart Choice I think!

This is our group arriving and have no Idea what we're about to embark in

Castell Coch Castle

2009-02-22T06:13:00.004-07:00

Our second stop of the day. This was one of the best castles we have visited because it was complete and like a fairytale setting. We of course had fun in the sun!

I liked this dresser so I snapped a shot

We started twirling in one of the roms and of course put the camera on self timer

Abby, Erin, Me, Sarah

Fun Girls!

Chelsea, Me, Abby, Sarah, Erin

Me and Sarah... I love my sunglasses

regular pictures are getting old

giddy up!

one of the bedrooms

St. Fagan's National History Museum

2009-02-22T05:51:00.003-07:00

Our first stop on our 3 day Wales trip--St. Fagans. It was acers of land with trees, schools, churches, farms, gardens. It was pretty cool. The best part was the weather, it wasn't too chilly and the sun was shining--a rare occasion in the UK! I love the SUN!!!

My Valentines sunglasses!

This is the classroom of the school. We are acting like we do in class AKA: I'm sleeping!

Sarah and Me outside the school!

Sarah and Me

Me, Erin, Sarah, Abby, Chelsea

A heart ring that Abby found and gave to me because it matched my sunglasses

Me, Abby and Sarah in the garden

I'm the 4th head from the left

Jenna, Sarah, Kate, Me, Abby, Connie, Sarah

Me by the red door that I liked

These little villages were muddy but fun to see

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-21T13:42:00.005-07:00

VALENTINES DAY! We had a fun night with all the girls here in London. We had a big party where we dressed up (40's style-ish)... I didn't know what to do, so I just wore RED lipsitck. It was a big hit. We had a secret valentine exchange and a little dance party with refreshments. It honestly was one of the most fun Valentine Days I've had.

My roommate Kalie and Me

waiting for my photo shoot

I love candid shots like these

The three lost lambs! Abby, Me and Sarah

Abby and Me

Israeli Peace Walks

2009-02-15T07:34:00.004-07:00

The first week we arrived there were Israeli peace walks/protests all week long and longer. Being brand new to London, I felt completely out of place and found myself nervous being on the streets. It was an amazing event to watch, something I probably will never forget witnessing. I loved when the London Police would sweep through behind and force them out when they're time was up. These pictures are taken right outside of the Embassy right up the street from my house. I thought these pictures were cool and wanted to share them with you!

London police force

That's me in the middle

YSA Dance! A big Friday night for us Girls! LOL!

2009-02-15T07:28:00.004-07:00

A YSA guy, Me and Sarah

A big night for us 40 girls here in London. We were all excited to hit the town hahaha to a YSA (young single adult) dance at Hyde Park Chapel. I was satisfied due to the 3 Britney Spears songs that were played! All the girls knew it was my time to shine when those songs came on! These dances are a big deal out here. There are YSA's that drove 2+ hours to come out for this dance. We met a lot of new friends and went out for Ice Cream at Haagen Daz after. It was a fun night to get away from the BYU center and to interact with new faces!

Tower of London

2009-02-15T06:59:00.005-07:00

Our group made a visit to The Tower of London. It was a really rainy day and miserably cold... but I stayed positive and tried to make the most of our visit. My friend Sarah and I tagged along on a group tour and ending up learning more than I would have by walking around. The Tower of London (the white tower) is the original Tower and has always been a palace, never a torture chamber like some believe. Building surrounding the tower were later added and used for prisoners and punishment. They now hold the crown jewels, armor, guns and cannons. It was really neat to see. The crowned jewels were amazing--no pictures were allowed. But, I did see the largest diamond in the world weighing in at a whopping 503 carats! Yes huge. They actually had a 3,000+ carat diamond, but to get the clarity and color they cut it into 9 diamonds and the 503 carat diamond was the biggest out of the nine. It was really cool to see on display while taking a horizontal escalator to move across all the jewels. I thought the "people mover" was funny!

The original Tower of London--The White Tower

Me with the tour guide (we tagged along on his tour, sneaky)

The monument in place for where Ann Bolen was beheaded

Graffiti dated back to the 1600's (sorry kind of blurry)

Guns and Cannons

Me with the 7 pound leg armor (it was heavy for leggings)

London Bridge -- London calling!

Sarah and Me

Me on the London Bridge! It was so so cold and I didn't think my umbrella was going to make it!

Sarah and Me on the London Bridge... did I mention freezing!

Lion King

2009-02-14T17:58:00.003-07:00

I forgot to blog about Lion King! I have always wanted to see it. The costumes and the stage were seriously so cool... acting and singing, ehh not the greatest. I love going to shows and I find myself tearing up at the end when everyone is clapping and standing ovations--I get excited that audiences will be doing that for my sister Erin soon in WICKED and it just makes me so happy!

This is how the "lions" greeted eachotehr on stage... we did this for a good hour to strangers on the street. It was quite funny.

The night the tradition of Ed's Diner started. Yes me all nat-ur-al.

Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross

2009-02-14T17:14:00.003-07:00

Everywhere we go there are always a few girls coo-ing about relations to Harry Potter. I have never read the books, but I have seen the 1st and 2nd movie. So I'm not completely foreign to Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross Station. I was very excited to get these pictures for my brother Andrew to see, because I knew he would love them--And I was right, he mentioned these pictures in his last letter to me! I think it is fun that they have this for the fans and there is even a cart halfway into the wall. Too Fun.

Jersey Boys

2009-02-14T16:54:00.004-07:00

Last week we saw Jersey Boys! I loved it the first time I saw it in NYC and was excited for the girls to see it, and hoped they loved it like I did. We had a blast! We were singing and dancing through the entire show. Everyone was up during the finale dancing and singing and just having a ball. I was so glad that everyone loved it! We walked out just giggly and giddy. It was really fun. As always we headed over to Ed's diner for some good food and fun signing along to the juke box. These really are becoming my favorite nights here in London.

The tube was down this evening and so we opted to split into two groups and take a taxi. My first taxi ride in London. Thank goodness we had this idea, becuase we never would have made it otherwise.

Me, Sarah, Ana

Ed's Diner (we're becomming regualrs... the secruity guard Michael expects us each week from now on)

Sarah, Me, Patrice, Alyssa

The shakes in London are more runny and milky... not my favorite.

Doing my favorite dance move from the show! So Franki Valli...Who loves you pretty baby!
Sarah, Me, Steph, Ana, Patrice

If you didn't know this is what a Good Time looks like!
Alyssa, Molly, Me, Ana, Steph

Canterbury

2009-02-10T15:55:00.004-07:00

Last stop of our day trip was Canterbury Cathedral. If you are like me and thought it was Cadbury and very disappointed then you're not alone. It was a cool stop. I swear I've been to more cathedrals than I have temples in my life. But this was a fun trip. My friend Sarah Mabey and I were proactive in learning and had a tour guide take us around to educate us. It made the trip much more interesting!

Canterbury Cathedral

Me and Sarah. This is where they believe the phrase "one foot already in the grave" came from. Do you see how his one foot is covered by a sheet and the other is exposed?

To help rebuild parts of the cathedral, the Americans donated money. So for their contributions they sculpted this. It is a donkey, elephant, and an eagle. Pretty neat.

It is documented that this is the place where J.K. Rowling came and pondered while writing Harry Potter. These ball fixtures that have the leaves on them (there are two on each side) stuck in her had and which later became the ball for the game quiddich (I have no idea how to spell that). Cool Huh!

Me with the Black Prince. He never ruled because he died in battle before he could take over the throne. He is also the man who started chivalry.

St. Augustine's Abbey

2009-02-06T12:53:00.006-07:00

The second portion of our day trip was to St. Augustine's Abbey (or whats left of it). It was bombed a while ago and we went and saw the remains. It was not very eventful at all, so we decided to play hide and seek... and I touched base in the first minute of the game, so I got bored pretty quick; Its too bad that I'm so good at hide and seek.

St. Augustine's gravestone...

Love Lane

What's left of St. Augustine's Abbey

White Cliffs of Dover

2009-02-06T12:46:00.005-07:00

These are the WHITE CLIFFS OF DOVER.. we actually just stopped on the coach for a second and looked out the window, while our professors wife, Sister Crisler, sang the "white cliffs of dover" song on the loud speaker. I can't decide if it was weird or awkward. It was the closest I felt to being on an Asian tour bus!

Dover Castle

2009-02-06T11:51:00.005-07:00

We went to Dover Castle on our Day Trip. We got to go into the War Tunnels (no pictures allowed) that were built and used for WWII and the Cold War. They were pretty darn cool, but sort of cheesy because the tour is animated with a story being told through the speaker system and its "staged" of how it was like back then. They even had fake pot roast dinner in the kitchen. After the war tunnels we roamed around Dover Castle and it was a let down because they wouldn't let us go in, so we just walked around and took pictures to kill time. We had a good time!

Me and Sarah

Abby and Me in a castle tunnel

Cheese!
Steph, Ana, Molly, Abby, Me, Elizabeth, Srarh

Dover Castle

The English Channel. My favorite part of the day... So pretty.

St. Pauls Cathedral

2009-02-06T11:11:00.004-07:00

We visited St. Paul's Cathedral and it was the best cathedral I've been to by far! Absolutly beautiful. My neck hurt after a while because I looked up the entire time. It reminded me of Grandma Irene because of all the gold and angels. Pictures were not allowed which was a bummer. There also was alot of construction going on outside so getting a good picture wasn't very easy. This picture is the best I could do. Me and Connie.

SNOW in London

2009-02-02T06:17:00.004-07:00

Last night SNOW in LONDON!!! Crazy Cold and so pretty. We had to take pictures and good thing because this mornings BREAKING NEWS on BBC News "England has the worst snow it has seen for 18 years, causing all London buses to be pulled from service and the closure of Heathrow's runways." It is still snowing like mad and predicted to snow through Wednesday.

IT'S SNOWING!!!

Me and Kate... Freezing

It's sooooo cold!

Me looking out the library window

Palace Court in a snowstorm!

Stourhead -- BREATHTAKING!!!

2009-02-01T19:12:00.005-07:00

Stourhead was the best part of the Day Trip! And not only because of the first picture "spread eagle" but because it was beautiful. Jaw Dropping and Breathtaking. I hope to go back there again. I roamed around with my friend Elizabeth. It is a two mile walk around the gardens. Very enjoyable and peaceful. Lovely.

It doesn't get much better than stumbling across a Spread Eagle Inn!!!

The Grotto. This portion of the gardens were roped off, but Elizabeth and I snuck in and took a look. It was totally worth it!

I think at this point my face is saying "oh my gosh another group picture"

The temple that Elizabeth and I wanted to go to but missed the trail...

But that didn't stop us... we climbed over this fence and down through a bridge-like structure and I got so dirty (why I'm pointing to my pants)... It was hilarious. This is where the famous engagement scene in Pride and Prejudice took place (the newer version).

Great Scenery Shots of Stourhead! You must stop here if you're in or near London!

Portchester Castle

2009-02-01T18:34:00.005-07:00

Another portion of our day trip was visiting Portchester Castle. We expected this to be quite boring, but we made the most fun we could. It was fun going to the top and seeing the great views and being close to the English Channel. I love water! I just wish it were real beach.

Kate, Me and Connie -- Portchester Gift shop. My hat was voted best! Highlight of the trip :)

View from the top of Portchester Castle. This is the nearby cemetery/church. Look at the English Channel behind!

Climbing the stairs to the top! It was so narrow and spiraly. Fun, but not if you're in a hurry.

Me and Kate at the top of Portchester Castle.

Portchester Castle (in Winchester).

Winchester!

2009-02-01T17:58:00.005-07:00

Today we took our day trip to Winchester! We honestly all thought this portion of the day trip was boring. Our professor was having attitude because he was lost in getting us to the Grand Hall. It was quite comical! Overall we had a fun day. It was rainy all day which wasn't fun, but luckily I had my waterproof coat.

Here's the group... yes I am a good 2-3 inches taller than most!

Jane Austen's gravestone in Winchester Cathedral... probably the most entertaining part of the trip to Winchester Cathedral, sadly. Cathedrals are getting a tad old...

Me in Winchester Cathedral--do you see any differences between other cathedrals that I've posted??? Yeah, me neither!

Sarah, Molly and Me killing time inside the Great Hall

Abbey and Me outside the Great Hall in Winchester... yet killing more time.

King Arthur's Round Table at the Great Hall. They recently found out that this really isn't his table... so the point of stopping here???? I think they are going to wait till they sell all the "round table merchandise" then take it down haha!

The Barbicons! a.k.a.: Kitchen Duty

2009-01-26T18:06:00.008-07:00

This past week my group called "The Barbicons" had Kitchen duty. The groups are broken up into 5 or 6 girls and are in charge two different weeks through out the semester. We have to get up early (7:30am) to prepare for breakfast and take breakfast down at 8:30 am and do the dishes. Then we meet up at 4 pm for dinner duty to set the tables and help prepare the food, and around 5:45 pm we have the lovely pleasure of cleaning up after everyone and doing all of the dishes. We actually had fun and enjoyed each others company. Although its safe to say we're glad tomorrow is our last day ... until march!

This is the dining room. Only 20 persons fit in here including the faculty. So the overload go into the "servery"

I was given the task of carving the turkey!
I MISS CUTCO KNIVES!!!!

Yes it is... back stock of Nutella. The girls here go through a jar like every two days! Insane! I actually don't eat this very often. I know it surprises me too!

The Storeroom. A room we all wish we had a key to.

Maren, Me and Sarah
We all had a fun time together and we'd sit together as a group for dinner. It was fun!
(Elizabeth and Jenny are apart of The Barbicons, but not pictured)

STONEHENGE

2009-01-22T08:46:00.005-07:00

I was so excited to visit Stonhenge today! As we drove up all of the sudden you see a pile of rocks... Seriously not as big as I was thinking, but honestly so neat to be here! Here are some fun facts that I learned:
1. Stonehenge is also a calendar. You can use the postion of the sun on the stones to wrok out what month you are in.
2. The Heaviest of the stones weighs 45 tons! That is seven large elephants!
3. The first stones to arrive at Stonehenge were the so-called bluesontes --the smaller stones that you can see in the circle today. They don't look blue, but if you split it open they are blue with white specks and look blue when they're wet.

I had so much fun at Stonehenge and suprisingly wasn't cold. I prepared and wore leggens under my jeans, 4 shirts, a fleece shirt, my mont.bell jacket and a scarf and gloves! I was just fine! We had a great time taking pictures too!

I'm at Stonehenge!!!!

My Friend Abby and Me

Stonehenge

My "bus mate" for the day! Elizabeth and Me

So much fun!

Elizabeth, Chelsea, Kate, Me, Erin

Salisbury Cathedral

2009-01-22T08:26:00.005-07:00

Salisbury Cathedral has the tallest spire in England at 404 feet. This cathedral took 60 years to build. We had such a sweet lady for a tour guide and I learned lots more than I would have just roaming around bymyself.

They are always doing renovations on this cathedral because it is so old and so heavy that is is consistently sinking.

This clock is the oldest working clock in Europe... I couldn't tell the time lol!

BATH

2009-01-21T17:05:00.007-07:00

We went on our Day Trip today! We visited Bath first "the most famous spa in England. It was such a neat town. We first visited the Roman Bath museum with visible are a Roman Temple and Bath Houses fed by hot springs with a temp of 120 degrees F that pour out 250,000 gallons of water per day. It was actually really neat!

With my Audio Tour Player... I love the steam from the bath in the background!

Look at that steam!

Big Tub! Kinda Gross, but cool.

Me and Amy in the City of Bath!

Bath Circus... they call it "Circus" because it is circular. Nicholas Cage lives on the one on the left.

Worth Every Cent!

2009-01-21T16:29:00.008-07:00

These are a few purchases I made with my London trip on my mind. I am so glad I have these items with me here; and they've made the experience in London 10X's better! I highly recommend all of these!

Ugg Boots! Enough Said!

It! Jeans Rising Starlet. I wear these so often and tuck them into my boots and they never get wet! So Comfortable. But I had to purchase two belts at GAP (so European) to keep them from falling off.

Coach Lanyard. I get teased for this one... But I love my Lanyard! I am never worried that I am going to loose my money or credit cards and I.D.. Its so secure and looks good! You can pick it out in a lot of my pictures (it looks like a halter top in some haha). The worst is when I have to undress at the check out stand to get to it or show my ID! We've had some laughs over some experiences!

Mont.Bell Jacket. OH MY GOODNESS!!!! There are not words to explain how happy I am that I made this purchase! My friend Dave introduced me to this fantastic find! Completely water proof, keeps me totally warm, and utility zippers that I find uses for! And its Functional!!! Like Mont.Bell says, "function is beauty!" It is so light weight and fits into a pouch the length of my forearm! The hood is a tad goofy, but works like a charm! AMAZING!!! Made in Japan: AKA-- I wub AZAN!!!

F.R.Y.E. BOOTS!!! I cannot describe the love I have for these boots. Defiantly worth every cent and with my Nordstrom discount, even better! Completely comfortable and can wear them all day long... I just hate when they get a scuff... but it adds character. Love Love Love these!!!

Madame Tussaud's

2009-01-20T12:43:00.007-07:00

Today we went to Madame Tussauds. AKA Celebrity Wax Museum! ha! Because today is the Inauguration, Americans got in for free! I have been missing America. You'd be surprised what celebrity wax figures and a pizza dinner can do! I felt so American today! I enjoyed watching President Barack Obama be sworn into office. I love America! and Celebrity Wax figures for free! I would never pay to go into one of these types of museums, but because of the price "us girls" had such a blast.

Me, Abby, Sarah

"I pity the fool who put on my jewelry; I do! I do!"

Whoopie...

Charlie had an opening for a new angel...

me, Nicole, Sarah, Leo, Abby, Kiera

"can you smell what the rock is cookin?"

Wilson...Caitlyn Wilson

"Thank You!" "You're a great Audience!"

everyday life sort of thing

"I'd like to thank Steven for having faith in me..."

One of my Favorites!!!! Yeah, I train Lance...

Caddy knows best! This ones for you Dad!

"What?, It could happen..."

Dream come true! Best moment of my life haha!

No need to worry... I'm the master... he's just my puppet!

Kate's Birthday!

2009-01-18T18:49:00.005-07:00

Connie and I took Kate out to a Birthday Lunch at Cafe Diana (in honor of princess Di). Two policemen came in and one offered to jump into the shot, the other offered to take it! This was my first day of my cold! Not feeling too hot!

The grand "birthday" Pose at Cafe' Di!

Out to dinner with the girls!

Sarah, Kate, Me, Mckenzie

BIG GROUPS NOT WELCOMED!

Well one big difference between London and America... We accomidate for big groups---London not so much! I've never felt so "american" in my life when we are in big groups of giggly girls! We went out to dinner for Kate's birthday and had a group of 20! It was interesting. While waiting for our food I went off by myself and shopped around... I try to get in as much "alone time" as I can in those moments! We had a fun time and I think Kate really enjoyed her birhtday! I wore my new beanie and it was a hit!

Portabello Road Market

2009-01-18T18:18:00.006-07:00

Today we went to Portabello Market on Protabello Road. The market is filled with antiques and future donations to D.I. on Saturdays and just normal shops on other days. I had a fun time in the frigid weather! But can probably only handle going about 4 times a year. I purchased two beanies and I talked the women down to 6 pounds total... instead of the original price of 8 pounds. ha! I couldn't decide between the orange beanie or the blue beanie... so I got both! And I wanted to purchase something because I knew the chances of me wanting to go back were slim!

In Honor of Joey Tribiani! ITS FERGIE BABY!

Me, Kate and Connie

Orange Beanie

Blue Beanie

Portabello Road! Very Colorful!

Loads of People!

Rachmaninov

2009-01-16T17:59:00.007-07:00

I went to a Rachmaninov concert tonight at St. Martin in the Fields in Trafalgar Square! It was pretty good. The group singing was really great. There was a man singing bass that was fantastic.

Janessa, Elizabeth, Jenna, Me, Emily.

This is St. Martin-in-the-Fields. I took this picture the second day not knowing what it was, I just thought it was pretty. Little did I know it was St. Martins, but this is where the concert was held and where the picture above was taken. It is a church, a place for concerts, and business.

Westminster Abbey... you're Westminster Crabby!

2009-01-16T16:56:00.008-07:00

We went to Westminster Abbey today as a group! It was really neat. I saw Queen Elizabeths the first's grave site. It was really really neat and just impressive to visit! I also was introduced to "Poet's Corner" which was really fun to see and recognize the names. Charles Darwin's gravestone is the one picture I took at Westminster, then I found out that we can't have cameras... so I only got one shot while I was there! The others are from the internet, but I wanted you to see where I went today and what I saw!

Gravestone of Charles Darwin

Westminster Abbey!

Poet's Corner

Connie, Me and Kate walking to the tube after Westminster

A snap shot I took that I really like! Big ben and the London Eye!

CAMBRIDGE!

2009-01-16T16:31:00.008-07:00

Kings College--Gorgeous!

All the girls huddling together to keep warm!

CHEESE!!! Its freezing!!!!

Roman Bath!

WWII gravesite

We had our first day trip as a group. I was excited to actually learn and see things! We started out going to a city that starts with a V and saw a roman bath. It was pretty neat. It was FREEZING! We were in a cloud pretty much. The fog was so think that we couldn't see 10 yards in front of us. We attended a Roman museum in the same place too. There was a stop off to a Cahtedral that has a stained glass window that I fell inlove with! It is called the ROSE window! We then got back onto the Bus and headed toward the World War II gravesite. The huge wall with all the names of bodies not found and then all of the other graves. It was really cool to see and be there, but oh it was so frigid! I ran in place just to try to get some heat starting. We were then off to Cambridge! It was so great! Kings College is where we were really located and it was Gorgeous! I went to a museum there and saw a Van Gough painting that I've never seen before, Pissario, Monet, and Dali. We shopped around at all the little shops there and a nearby market. It was fun. As a group we went to Kings College Chapel for the young men's Evensong. They were great but it felt like another hour of church... still cool though! It was a great and tiring day!

Dr. Crisler and Me outside the Cathedral

The ROSE window that I fell in love with and want in my house one day...
Erin, Mishon, Me, Kate, Janna

Me outside Kings College... SO SO SO PRETTY!!!!

Photo Shoot in the gift shop!

Chelsea, Molly, Alyssa, Kate, Me, Erin

The Orangery: Kensington Gardens

2009-01-15T16:41:00.006-07:00

Abby, Me, Erin, Kalie, Chelsea

Abby and Me

Me, Chelsea, Erin, Alyssa, Abby

The Restaurant

The Dessert Table

The girls and I were excited to go to The Orangery in Kensington Gardens accross from Kensington Palace for tea and desserts. We went at high tea time. It was so pretty! I got peppermint tea and it was fantastic. I added the exact amount of sugar and it was yummy! Most of the table (of 20) got desserts and we just passed them around and took bites. There were some really good ones, like the Orange Cake, and some okay ones. I really enjoyed everyone and espeically the picture taking afterward outside the building. We really had a fun time!

Les Mis

2009-01-13T16:15:00.004-07:00

Me and Kate

As a group of about 25 we saw Les Miserables. I have never seen it before. It was obvious that I have not adjusted to London time yet, because I kept dozing off in the first act. I remembered there was candy in my purse, so I chomped on that to keep me awake! The first act was really long and figured maybe in London they don't have intermission. So I aske my friend if there was going to be an intermission and she said "I don't know, its almost over." So soon after that they had a big powerful number and everyone on stage marching and then the curtian closed. So I packed up my things and put my coat on and stood up waiting for the group to pack thier things. It took me a good 5 minutes to realize that it was only intermission at that point. It was quite funny. I enjoyed the musical, although Cosette's mom was TERRIBLE! I was like "Oh Erin is a million times better!" Also, playbills are free in NYC, they are 3 pounds 50 pence here! Not going to happen! Although it could have been useful for my intermission confusion and also for with the charachter eponine, which I thought they were saying Ebony and during the play thought to myself "why are they calling her Ebony...she's white... why not Ivory?" Later that night my friend Kate informed me of my mistake! It was fun to go with all the girls and I'm glad I saw it once in my lifetime. I will be sure to see more!

Mishon and Me

First Sunday... Not what I was picturing!

2009-01-13T16:03:00.003-07:00

Today I attended the ward I was assigned to with my "ward mate" Maryanne. We were advised to leave 1.5 hours early to get there in time. We take the tube to the British Rail trainstation and head over to the CRYSTAL PALACE ward. Sounds elaborate... but we go to church in the Ghetto of East Pinge. Our meeting house is a Primary School (elementary). We stay warm with space heaters (barely), and listen with a loud speaker put infront of the stand. The people in our ward are amazing and so happy to have Maryanne and I there. We are excited to serve in every possible way and they are excited to put us to use. I was very touched and humbled. I began to cry during the opening hymn by seeing the dedication these members have. It was refreshing and I'm grateful to be in this great ward. Maryanne and I received callings. I am called to teach Primary! I can't wait. I'm not sure what age group yet... but there are only about 10 children in the ward. I hope to do well! I just can't forget reading materials for my 3 hour train ride to and from!

2009-01-11T15:25:00.002-07:00

BYU London Center

I MADE IT!!!!

2009-01-11T11:59:00.001-07:00

Yea! Almost painless! Dad is the best for driving me so early in the morning, parking and walking me in. It kept me settled. Everything went so smooth. It's all I could ask for. There were 3 other girls on my flight, so we stuck together. My flight to San Fran was next to a pilot who loved to chat. He was nice and lucked out with my knowledge of his crossword puzzle.

It was fun to make phone calls during my layover. Sad to say but it is weird to adjust to life without a cell phone to text, call, or even look at the time and put tasks in my calendar. But I'm adjusting. Back to the flight! AMBIEN is amazing! I don't have nails to break them in half. So I bit it and a 1/3 came off. So i decided to take a third. I slept for 3 hours. Woke up for pretzel time. Took a second 1/3 and slept for 4 hours and by that time I only had 1 hour left of flying. So I was very pleased.

As we arrived in Heathrow, we got our luggage with no problems. Then all of the sudden the emergency fire alarm came on and we had to evacuate immediately! It was funny because we were all pretty much out of it and didn't really realize what was going on. Our shuttle arrived just a few minutes later (the Dot-to-Dot) and it was great!

We arrived to the BYU center and it was weird arriving realizing I'm here for 3 months. I got my room assignment. We are in the best building and I got the best room with the highest ceilings which are beautiful! I grabbed the top bunk, made my bed with the given bedding (motel 6 quality) and got my computer out to e-mail about my safe arrival. But each click to get my e-mail I'd fall asleep. Then I'd wake up hit the mouse to wake my computer up and as it booted back up I'd fall asleep. I kept falling asleep til my computer died. So I just finally shut it and fell asleep for a while. I was so excited when my friend Kate Eckersley arrived! My homesickness went down to a minimum when she got here!

I'm happy to be here and can't wait to BLOG about all of my adventures! Give me time to catch up! Love you all and missing you more than you know!!!!!