I am sitting cozy by the window in Paul's hospital room. The sky looks angry and the rain has been pounding the tin roof off and on all day. Rain on a tin roof- the stuff of life, man. Can't beat that relaxing sound. Today I feel like curling up under a big blanket with a good movie, or talking for hours over some hot coffee. It just so happens there is nothing on my schedule today but that very thing.
I've had a growth spurt this past six days, I think.
When I was a kid my family would take road trips every Summer. The weary hours before pulling into a hotel for the night were spent squirming in the back seat with Adrienne, trying to get comfortable, fighting for space and sleep. Her elbow was always jamming into my rib, my foot was always too close to her face; we'd end up all tangled and agitated until finally mom would step in. Mom had a way of arranging our little seven year old bodies just so- I never understood how she'd do it. But sure enough, we'd finally lay comfortably across the back seat of the van and fall asleep.
I've been trying to memorize Proverbs 31 recently. It's one of my favorite biblical passages. I just find it so inspiring- it is a new life goal of mine, to be a Proverbs 31 woman. I've been focused on the Proverb this week in particular. I feel like I'm covering new ground; I feel a bit stretched and challenged and a little forced to be an adult. It is a scary, invigorating and effective way to learn.
Things at the hospital have gone relatively smoothly this week. Paul's recovering with remarkable speed, and they say he can go home tomorrow! The only real difficult time we had was last night. The same exact thing happened last October when Paul had lung surgery. He has a reaction to the morphine after some time, which is what happened last night. He got anxious, said he felt unlike himself, that he was having nightmares even though he was sitting awake, that the room's walls were closing in on him. It was unsettling for me- I didn't know what to do except to assure him that the walls were staying in place, and that didn't seem to help much. I kept calling the nurses who were preoccupied with other patients. It was getting late and visiting hours were almost over. I couldn't leave him in that state, and it didn't look like I could spend the night. I felt so overwhelmed and helpless. I was tired. I was sick of being at the hospital. I was aware that I was only twenty two and felt all together in over my head. All I wanted was my mom, really. I needed a hug, I needed someone to come and fix everything.
A Proverbs 31 woman is clothed in strength. I took a deep breath and channeled everything in me that was... proverbian? Paul tossed and turned in bed unable to lay still. "Can you come arrange my pillows the way you do?" he asked. I hurried to his bedside, happy to be given a task, to feel in control of something, to be contributing. To my amazement, he laid his head down on his newly arranged pillows, grinned a contented grin and fell asleep.
What a relief. I sat back in my chair and felt so so great. I don't think I've felt truly needed in my life until this week. What a nice feeling :) It is so clear to me that coming here was a good decision. It's been wonderful being able to help and to show my love.
I called my mom this afternoon and told her yesterday's saga and how much I missed her. She is at the beach where we always take Hanson family vacations, and missing her mother too. It is all apart of growing up, I suppose, for my mom and for me. It is a good thing, I think, to need someone. It's also a good thing to be needed. Everyone is all about independence, and doing it on their own. There's a place for that too, but sometimes you just need to call your mom. Or have your pillows arranged :)
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Monday, August 15, 2011
A Successful Operation
For those of you who want the facts upfront in five sentences or less (Dad), Paul is doing really well :) The surgery went off without a hitch, and Paul is mostly pain free and comfortable in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit) for another few hours before he'll be moved to private room. The staff has been wonderful and attentive, and we are ready to get this recovery process started!
For those of you who like every detail (Mom), here is how it all went down.
Monday morning Paul went into surgery at about 8am. By 10am, Paul's parents and I were waiting in the hospital for him, and an hour later he arrived. Paul was awake, which surprised me, and in a ton of pain. It was hard to watch. He had about 20 tubes coming in and out of anywhere and everywhere. I am glad there are doctor shows on TV. I imagine scenes in ICUs would come as much more a shock if it weren't for them. Paul appeared emotional when he saw us, but it was clear he couldn't cry because it would hurt too badly. He was wincing and told the doctor his pain was a 9 out of 10. That was hard too- Paul's not one to whine or exaggerate at all, so I knew how much pain he must have been in. His parents kissed his forehead and I whispered prayers in his ear. The doctors were pumping morphine in him, but said it would take a bit for the meds to start kicking in. I started to feel a little dizzy, so I sat down. Just like that, my vision tunneled. Aw, crap, I thought. I wanted to warn the nurses I was about to faint, but my body refused.
I have a long history of fainting spells. I've seen heaps of doctors, and have been diagnosed with vasovagal syncope, or as they have nicknamed it- skinny white girl syndrome. There's nothing horribly wrong with me, it's just something to be dealt with. There's also nothing I can really do to avoid it. I just stay aware- sit down whenever I feel even slightly dizzy. I pass out every 6 months or so. What used to be scary is now just annoying, the worst part being where I try to explain to a circle of freaked out witnesses why I'm fine and that yes, I've eaten breakfast.
I came to with an oxygen mask on my face and a nurse saying he was going to prick my finger to test my blood sugar. I have never passed out around medical people before. Oy. I pulled my hand away from him with as much force as I could muster (I am terrified of needles!) and explained my condition. I looked over at Paul who was looking lots better. "Way to steal my thunder," he joked. It was good to see him coming back around to his normal self.
I spent the rest of the day by Paul's side. I broke the visiting hour rules which seem to tick a few nurses off, but oh well. I am so so so happy to be able to be here with him. Paul was the happiest of campers all day long. He was very chatty and sweet. He probably told me 15 times how glad we has to have me with him. He kept telling me how much fun he was having, haha. The drugs were definitely doing their job. At one point a nurse came to check Paul's eyes with a flashlight, but he opened his mouth instead. I just couldn't stop laughing about that. We watched a lot of sports and a lot of Seinfeld (Paul's favorites). By 8pm we were both sleepy and visiting hours were over. I was asleep in my bed by 9:15.
Paul had a very restless nights sleep, and not doing quite as well today. I think getting out of the ICU will do him a lot of good. The noise in that ward makes sleeping difficult. I am here today again, and will be here for the next 5 or 6 days.
Everyone has been so supportive, down here in Oz as well as in the States. I am feeling just so grateful for that.
Love to you all :) Your prayers are felt.
Love Abby
For those of you who like every detail (Mom), here is how it all went down.
Monday morning Paul went into surgery at about 8am. By 10am, Paul's parents and I were waiting in the hospital for him, and an hour later he arrived. Paul was awake, which surprised me, and in a ton of pain. It was hard to watch. He had about 20 tubes coming in and out of anywhere and everywhere. I am glad there are doctor shows on TV. I imagine scenes in ICUs would come as much more a shock if it weren't for them. Paul appeared emotional when he saw us, but it was clear he couldn't cry because it would hurt too badly. He was wincing and told the doctor his pain was a 9 out of 10. That was hard too- Paul's not one to whine or exaggerate at all, so I knew how much pain he must have been in. His parents kissed his forehead and I whispered prayers in his ear. The doctors were pumping morphine in him, but said it would take a bit for the meds to start kicking in. I started to feel a little dizzy, so I sat down. Just like that, my vision tunneled. Aw, crap, I thought. I wanted to warn the nurses I was about to faint, but my body refused.
I have a long history of fainting spells. I've seen heaps of doctors, and have been diagnosed with vasovagal syncope, or as they have nicknamed it- skinny white girl syndrome. There's nothing horribly wrong with me, it's just something to be dealt with. There's also nothing I can really do to avoid it. I just stay aware- sit down whenever I feel even slightly dizzy. I pass out every 6 months or so. What used to be scary is now just annoying, the worst part being where I try to explain to a circle of freaked out witnesses why I'm fine and that yes, I've eaten breakfast.
I came to with an oxygen mask on my face and a nurse saying he was going to prick my finger to test my blood sugar. I have never passed out around medical people before. Oy. I pulled my hand away from him with as much force as I could muster (I am terrified of needles!) and explained my condition. I looked over at Paul who was looking lots better. "Way to steal my thunder," he joked. It was good to see him coming back around to his normal self.
I spent the rest of the day by Paul's side. I broke the visiting hour rules which seem to tick a few nurses off, but oh well. I am so so so happy to be able to be here with him. Paul was the happiest of campers all day long. He was very chatty and sweet. He probably told me 15 times how glad we has to have me with him. He kept telling me how much fun he was having, haha. The drugs were definitely doing their job. At one point a nurse came to check Paul's eyes with a flashlight, but he opened his mouth instead. I just couldn't stop laughing about that. We watched a lot of sports and a lot of Seinfeld (Paul's favorites). By 8pm we were both sleepy and visiting hours were over. I was asleep in my bed by 9:15.
Paul had a very restless nights sleep, and not doing quite as well today. I think getting out of the ICU will do him a lot of good. The noise in that ward makes sleeping difficult. I am here today again, and will be here for the next 5 or 6 days.
Everyone has been so supportive, down here in Oz as well as in the States. I am feeling just so grateful for that.
Love to you all :) Your prayers are felt.
Love Abby
Friday, August 12, 2011
The Photos We've Aaall Been Waiting For
Lauren and I just finished the premiere of Australia's Next Top Model which was essentially the same as America's Next Top Model only every contestant is white.
Okay! Here are the photos!
My new room!
Next, here is Paul in front of his new car! His eyes are shut.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Abby behind the wheel!!
The highlight of my week has been drinking drip coffee from the comfort of my house. Does that make it a lame week? Or just really great coffee.
This week has definitely had it's up and it's downs.
The up's:
The presents Paul got me (said coffee maker and also a much needed Aussie hair dryer. Mine was making scary smoke smells.).
We spent a lovely evening with Paul's friends Jake and Amy losing over and over at the card game President (called King here. Prime Minister, man.). We played probably twenty five hands. My boyfriend is one competitive bloke, as well as a good sport which comes in handy when we're being slaughtered.
Paul's dad works for an airline who hosted a trivia night to raise money for cancer research. Trivia nights are a big thing here. It's just what it sounds like- you make teams of 2-10 people. The team who answers the most questions right wins a prize. I had more fun than I expected to- it was SUCH a blast. Our team came in second place, but hey.
Paul and I went on a small hike on some northern Sydney beaches. Might as well get in all the activity we can before the big surgery, right? Sydney is beautiful beautiful beautiful. Apparently it's ranked in the top 5 best cities in the world, and I can think of 100 reasons why.
Bachelorette finale! Totally picked JP from day one.
The down's:
The surgery looms over us, and to boot, creates quite the time crunch. The past week and a half we've been going going going non stop. At least that's how it's felt. Moving across the world on two weeks notice leaves LOTS to been done. Who knew. We've been holding things together, but I in particular have defo had my moments. Leaving my family, moving house, starting a new job, making new friends, learning to drive, preparing for this surgery- these are all things I know how to do. Doing them all at once can be a bit tricky. I am lucky girl to have so much support from home, from Paul and from Jesus. How do people do life without these things??
I started my new job last Friday! It's in a warehouse for a bookstore called Koorong. The job is all manual and quite boring, unloading boxes, stickering books, packing boxes etc. The pros to it are my amazing boss (I have never had such a great boss in my life), the friendly staff and the fact that I can listen to my ipod all day :) I haven't worked too much yet- my boss was nice enough to give me time off to be in the hospital with Paul.
In other exciting news, Paul bought a car! It's his first car, so I made sure to take the classic "first car" photo (see above). We like it a whole lot so far. I've been riding shot gun until yesterday when I drove for the first time. It didn't go very well. I actually almost hit a woman walking behind me (first gear is in the top right corner of the clutch right next to reverse), almost pulled out in front of another car (left side means look right, Abby) almost stalled, I ALMOST DIED, OKAY?! Not really :) I did get honked at. I did cry... but in the end Paul and I exited the car in one piece. Well, two pieces. You get it.
I was so overwhelmed and on edge. We had the idea to first get me used to the left side of the car and street in an automatic before taking on the stick, which is what we spent today doing.
Driving around in Paul's sisters automatic was loads easier, but still scary. Everyone told me that driving would come naturally, but it just hasn't. I recite the rules to myself in my head- tight left turns, wide right turns, which helps. I gravitate towards the side of the road because to me, it looks like I'm headed straight for the oncoming traffic. Scaaary! Paul is patient though, and little by little I am getting the hang of things.
I am determined to get it by Sunday, which is when Paul goes to the hospital. I am done with crying. Sometimes you need to suck it up and put on your game face.
That's all I have to say for now, but I will end this post with a few specific requests on all you prayer warriors :)
More than Paul's health, please be praying for his spirit. He gets really frustrated and restless when he's sick. You can imagine that for an active guy, a month in bed will be difficult, especially following such a hard time with the same thing this past Winter. He has a positive attitude, and is keeping his head up, but sometimes the silver lining can be awfully hard to see.
But also pray for his health! :D
For me, pray that I learn to drive soon and fast. This is really important. I want Paul to go into surgery knowing I will be okay (I want to know that too!) and a big part of being independent is driving. I need to take care of Paul and I need to take care of me. Please pray I have the strength to do that and the confidence to stay on my side of the street when I car is headed straight for my seat! Ah!
I miss you!
Love,
Abby
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Just a Regular Arvo (that's Australian for afternoon, mate!)
Right now it is 1pm and about 73 degrees outside. This is Winter like I've never experienced it. The week and a half before I came Oz was cold and rainy (incidentally, Maryland was about 105 degrees, so I suppose I lucked out on both ends by being in mild and wonderful Colorado.) Apparently, I bring the sunshine cuz it's been nothing but b-e-a-utiful since my arrival ;D jokes. The sun is so hot here, that the mornings and evenings when it's not up are very chilly. Coat weather. In the shade, the temp seems to drop like 10 degrees. Weather talk is boring, I know, but I do find this interesting. I guess I've never lived this close to the equator.
I say all this to tell you how pumped I am to be living in Matt and Lauren Leeds' home now :) The Leeds home has massive windows everywhere that let in heaps of sunlight, and therefore heat! I am sitting in a Tshirt and shorts writing this, and it feels great. I really despise the sweaters or "jumpers" I've been wearing.
Matt and Paul have been best friends since childhood, so I'd heard a lot about he and his wife, Lauren, before I came down last Summer. (Note 1- the whole Summer/ Winter thing is confusing to write about. I can't even promise that I'll stick with one perspective in writing this, seeing as how I've already referred to August as both in this one entry. Note 2- I am paranoid to mess up my grammar (he and his? him and his?) in my blog. I know I'm an English major but...)
The Leeds' were as lovely as Paul told me they would be, and we became good friends. I am now living with them for three weeks or so, until I can work out some sort of permanent residency. Paul is still living at his parents house, and probably will be until his surgery on the 14th. Then he'll move... well, somewhere else. With such short notice, there are still lots of details to work out. So far I think we've been doing really well though :)
I looove living with Matt and Lauren! They are both school teachers, Lauren working literally across the street. You can see her classroom from her bedroom window- how funny is that. They have a new puppy that is quite hyper, however shockingly quiet, which is nice. I am starting to feel so at home in their house- they are such welcoming people. Plus they have one of those MASSIVE mac computers and a dvd collection the size of... a bathtub. That's an odd comparison, but accurate. Haha. Lauren is actually American herself. She moved from CA to Sydney when she was 12, so she has a very mixed accent. I don't find myself picking up anyones accent but hers, probably because it is similar to mine, only Australianized. She pronounces her er's like I do, but her vowels are all Aussie. I am going to stop talking about this now as I'm sure the only one who really cares about this stuff is my linguistically aware sister, Adrienne. ;)
I have spent the past few days at the Nonnies house because Paul's Nonno has been in the hospital undergoing prostate surgery. I'm not sure of all the details (non parlo Italiano), but I do know that he's doing well. Paul has been driving Nonna back and forth from the hospital. What a good grandson. We spent the night there, and before I fell asleep Nonna opened the door with a flashlight (she carries it around at night because it is easier than turning the lights on and off lol), said something in Italian and threw a bag of hot rice on my lap to keep me warm, haha.
I have had a few homesick moments in the past few days. Usually I cry a little, Paul asks "Are you done? I think you have some more to go," and I cry a little more. Then I get over it :) It is hard to move across the world. I don't know that I am particularly cut out for it, actually, but. Here I am. The first few weeks are the hardest part, after that things get great and stay great.
What I love about living in Australia:
- You don't have to add tax to things when you buy them. It's so nice knowing my exact total before i go to pay for something, especially since I'm still getting used to the currency.
- One dollar coins. Loved that about England too. The US needs to get on that.
- They have these amazing kettles that boil tons on water in one minute. I will be giving you one for your birthday. You have no idea what you're living without right now! :D
- No tipping.
- The money is really pretty and waxy, so it doesn't leave that gross carbon smell on your hands.
- You don't get charged to receive a text, only to send one. That just makes sense.
- Everyone hangs clothes out to dry instead of using the dryer to save energy. I can't decide if I like that or not, but I do admire it.
- Matt and Lauren live across the street from shops, including a grocery store which is beyond convenient.
- The birds are so colorful!
What I do not love about living in Australia:
- The birds are so loud.
- The coffee serving size is so small! (my one true qualm with Europe as well.)
- Being homesick
- Finding all new websites (you don't know how many American website's there are.)
- EVERYTHING IS SO EXPENSIVE, but don't worry. Tomorrow I have a trial day at a new job and the starting pay is 21 dollars an hour- can you even believe it.
Well I think that's all for now. I'll tell you next about my new job (!!) and how I managed to learn to drive a stick with my left hand. A bit nervous about that. Til then!
Abby
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Dunkirk, Baltimore, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Sydney.
Wednesday morning I woke up for the last time in America, got dressed and went out to breakfast with my dad at our favorite place, the Countryside Delhi. Getting breakfast out with my dad is a tradition I will miss a whole lot these next six months. I said goodbye to Mom, Dad and Adi around 3pm that day. My mom hugged me tight and told me that I was doing the right thing. Adrienne stood and waved at me in the security line for about five minutes after we'd said goodbye. I hate saying goodbye to my family. I am embarrassingly prone to homesickness. It something I have to consciously not let dictate my decisions. However, this is certainly not the first time I've left them, and as I rounded the corner into the security check point, I found myself completely void of sadness. I pulled my suitcase down the airport walkways and felt only excitement. I am so proud of that! I feel like I have come a long way since my first three weeks of sobbing in England :)
My flight was as pleasant as a twenty four hour flight can be- I slept for five hours!! (a special thanks to my sleep-asking-prayer-warriors: Devin, Mandy, Caleb, Leslie and Sami. I honestly felt those prayers!) On two of the three flights I had an empty seat next to me, including the LA to Sydney leg. That was unbelievably lucky because there really weren't many seats open on either flight. I curled up into a ball and laid my head down. That extra seat made all the difference.
I also sat across the aisle from a Jay Z look alike who dramatically bobbed his head and conducted with his hands during take off and landing, so that was pretty entertaining.
I stepped off the plane and immediately knew I was in Australia as the signs pointed me to the "toilets" not the restrooms. I don't know why I find that so embarrassing. "Excuse me, where are the restrooms?" "Oh, the toilets?" What if I just want to power my nose? I just can't feel like a lady calling them the toilets. Next I spent an hour getting through customs, where the cutest beagle sniffed my bags. Then FINALLY there was Paul Schiavello. I look for Paul differently when I'm searching a crowd in that I simply skim the tops of everyone's heads- yup, there he is.
Paul took me to his grandparents (the Nonnies) house because they live in the city. I had a much anticipated bubble bath and one of Nonna's delicious lunches of homemade salami, pasta, salad, cheese, steak, salmon and bread. Can't wait for Christmas at that woman's house. Paul's Nonnies immigrated from Italy some fifty years ago, and don't speak much English. Paul is quite the translator. Nonna looked through every single page of my England scrapbook and commented "beautiful, beautiful." Being around Nonna makes me miss my dear Mom mom.
That afternoon on the way to pick up Paul's sister, Grace, we got a flat tire on a two way street in the city. I was so impressed with Paul's relaxed response to the whole thing, and double impressed as he changed the tire with no problem while dodging oncoming cars. Talk about your man skills. The three of us went by Paul's Uncle Mike's new cafe on the water and had a coffee. I was shocked at how well I was feeling having not slept for forty hours or so (minus those five magical hours on the plane :), and opted to go see some of Paul's friends that night. However, when jetlag hits you in hits you hard and fast. In a matter of fifteen minutes I went from my happy go lucky self to this pitiful sobbing thing, and couldn't tell Paul or myself why. I just sat there in the car crying like a baby, mainly because I just wanted to get in bed all of the sudden, and I didn't know where my toothbrush was in my suitcase, hahaha. It's funny now but I wasn't laughing then. Paul was so understanding, told me I was just really tired, and took me home where I fell asleep for the night at 5:30 pm (3:30am MD time.)
I am so happy to be here in Australia, and to be here with Paul. I am currently blogging at 4:30 am, so I am obviously not quite adapted yet. I did stay awake until eight last night though! I miss you all and hope you're doing well. Another update soon!
Abby
Friday, July 29, 2011
Why
Corny, but I once heard in a bible study that we should make all of our life's plans in pencil and then hand God the eraser, and now I will tell you why I am currently living in Sydney, Australia.
I met Paul two years ago after his year studying abroad at the University of Pennsylvania. I was struck by first his height and then his Australian accent, and although I didn't see him for another six months after our initial meeting, I was surprised and delighted to find that he was not a person I could easily forget. Paul fascinated me, and still does. Being in love with Paul has been one of the most challenging and rewarding things I've ever done. We work hard to make our long long looong distance relationship work, but have found that that extra effort makes our relationship that much greater :) Paul has spent the past six months living in the States which has been so wonderful. However, the US and Australian governments play a definite role in our relationship, and visa rules state that he leave the country every three months. I said goodbye to Paul in late June and he flew back home for what he'd planned to be a month long visit. Two weeks ago Paul called and told me he was on the way to the hospital with a collapsed lung. Ooooh crap.
The doctors were shocked (this same thing happened last October and they performed a surgery to ensure it never happen again) and after they temporarily fixed Paul's lung, they told him that it was only a matter of time before his lung collapsed again. This left the option of another surgery, but they warned Paul how painful it would be, (Paul and I watched a video of the surgery on youtube and probably shouldn't have...) and that the recovery would be long and hard. On top of that, he would be unable to fly for at least three months.
The decision to move down to Australia was big, but easy to make. I considered my options: Stay in America, finish up my last semester at Towson, and graduate while Paul recovered in Australia, or move graduation back another semester, head down to Oz and be with Paul while he is sick. I considered what gave my life happiness on the day to day, and I'll tell you what, it's not Towson University. And with that, I packed up and left home. People have been shocked with my news and told me they could never do this sort of thing, but I know that they probably could. I think that at the end of the day most people would drop anything and go anywhere to be with the person they love when that person's in trouble. To me, it is only natural to have moved down here. My parents have been so supportive- that has meant the world to me.
I am starting up this blog again for a few reasons:
1. I am a writing major, and to be consistently writing is the best thing I can do for myself :)
2. I LOVED blogging in England, and am so glad I did. I reread my blog and am amazed at how much of it I have forgotten!
3. This will save me from giving the same update to 18 people when I call home.
4. I enjoy it so much :) If at the end of this six months my mother is the only one reading this, and I am aware that that's a definite possibility, I won't mind :) Writing for me, is the ultimate form of stress relief and self expression. (thanks for being my number one fan, mama :D)
Here's to another adventure abroad!!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
There's no place like home
My first week back at home has been one big transition. Home is very little like I left it, but that's okay. Adrienne and I have been discussing the idea that "you can never come back home." I suppose it'd be impossible to leave for half a year and have things just as you left them 5 months ago ay. Since I've been gone, I've gained a family member, Jolie, and lost one as well, my precious mom mom. Life around my house this week has been bringing back lots of the memories I have of my moms cancer. There is slight sadness, but a definite sense of hope and togetherness, not to mention heaps of great food. Seriously, we have about 3 casseroles in our fridge right now. People have been so great :)
Flexability is key to the Ackermanns; it's what we do best. Plans change at the drop of a hat, the door is revolving, and right now Taney court is a game of musical beds with 8 of us living here, more to come tonight. This is what I love about my home. Ikea should totally use us in their table ads. Who knew you could fit 13 around a 6 seater. As I write this in my new basement bedroom that I share with Adrienne, I can hear my mom singing You Raise Me Up from the kitchen :) My new bedrooms vents offer great acoustics from almost all the rooms in our house. It's especially fun when I'm napping and Vinny and my cousins are watching the World Cup on TV upstairs.
As for me, I am loving every minute here at home. Truly, my family are my best friends. It's so good to come home to them. However, there's a part of me that's ready to jet off to Europe again right now. I've written down the places I still want to see, and it's quite the list. It's an odd sensation to feel like you've seen so much, and so little at one time. Never have I felt so excited for my future as I do now.
This post marks the end of my blog; thanks for keeping up with my adventures in England. Maybe in a few years I'll have another blog about my adventures in Greece or Prague or Argentina or where ever! I can't wait :)
Love Abby
Flexability is key to the Ackermanns; it's what we do best. Plans change at the drop of a hat, the door is revolving, and right now Taney court is a game of musical beds with 8 of us living here, more to come tonight. This is what I love about my home. Ikea should totally use us in their table ads. Who knew you could fit 13 around a 6 seater. As I write this in my new basement bedroom that I share with Adrienne, I can hear my mom singing You Raise Me Up from the kitchen :) My new bedrooms vents offer great acoustics from almost all the rooms in our house. It's especially fun when I'm napping and Vinny and my cousins are watching the World Cup on TV upstairs.
As for me, I am loving every minute here at home. Truly, my family are my best friends. It's so good to come home to them. However, there's a part of me that's ready to jet off to Europe again right now. I've written down the places I still want to see, and it's quite the list. It's an odd sensation to feel like you've seen so much, and so little at one time. Never have I felt so excited for my future as I do now.
This post marks the end of my blog; thanks for keeping up with my adventures in England. Maybe in a few years I'll have another blog about my adventures in Greece or Prague or Argentina or where ever! I can't wait :)
Love Abby
Saturday, June 5, 2010
What a week.
Sara, Heather and I spent another 4 days in Spain with Blanca and her family, which were amazing. The lifestyle is Spain was really different; eating lunch at 4 and dinner at 9 took some getting used to. I couldn't have asked for better company- Sara and Heather make for great travel buddies. Having done a number of trips together at this point, we mesh really well. All three of us had a blast with Blanca; what a lovely girl. Her and her mother were so incredibly hospitable, we were blown away again and again by their kindness.
A highlight for me was a fountain we visited one night. It was huge, and every half hour had a new color and music show. We sat on the grass and watched as the colorful water shot up and around to a Disney medly, beginning with Cirle of Life- awesome. Funny the things that are universal, like Disney. Or starbucks. Or math... :/
The trip was possibly my favorite of the whole term; a great way to end my experience here. The last few days Sara, Heather and I have spent in various British cities- today they are in London. It's been a really great time.
On a heavier note, things have been tough at home in Maryland. Mom mom's health has been waning fast. Over Spring break, my parents told me Mom mom would probably die within the year. It was hard news to swallow. Mom mom means the world to me, as she does to many people. The time I spent with her in April I will always cherish. The last two weeks or so, her health has declined so much that we weren't sure if she'd make it til I came home from England. It's been difficult to be this far from my family these past few days. I've been calling Mom mom and asking her to wait for me. I'll be home in two days, and I'd love to see her one last time. She told me she'd try.
Last night, my mom told me that Mom mom was ready to die. I said goodbye to Mom mom on the phone. She couldn't respond, but I'm told she could hear me. I'm so grateful to have Sara and Heather here, as all my friends have already gone back home. Paul too has been so supportive through the entire thing; I'm a lucky girl to have so many dependable, loving people to lean on.
As of right now, Mom mom is still here, though unconscious. I am still hoping that she can hold on, and that I'll see her Monday afternoon when I arrive back in the US. However, no matter what, I know I'll see her again in heaven. Adrienne told me that yesterday, every now and then mom mom would softly murmur "heaven." There is such a comfort to know she'll be with Jesus when she goes.
This is certainly not how I pictured my trip here ending. It's been quite the adventure, but today all my thoughts are on Taney Court. I can't wait to hop off that plane and see my family :)
Sara, Heather and I spent another 4 days in Spain with Blanca and her family, which were amazing. The lifestyle is Spain was really different; eating lunch at 4 and dinner at 9 took some getting used to. I couldn't have asked for better company- Sara and Heather make for great travel buddies. Having done a number of trips together at this point, we mesh really well. All three of us had a blast with Blanca; what a lovely girl. Her and her mother were so incredibly hospitable, we were blown away again and again by their kindness.
A highlight for me was a fountain we visited one night. It was huge, and every half hour had a new color and music show. We sat on the grass and watched as the colorful water shot up and around to a Disney medly, beginning with Cirle of Life- awesome. Funny the things that are universal, like Disney. Or starbucks. Or math... :/
The trip was possibly my favorite of the whole term; a great way to end my experience here. The last few days Sara, Heather and I have spent in various British cities- today they are in London. It's been a really great time.
On a heavier note, things have been tough at home in Maryland. Mom mom's health has been waning fast. Over Spring break, my parents told me Mom mom would probably die within the year. It was hard news to swallow. Mom mom means the world to me, as she does to many people. The time I spent with her in April I will always cherish. The last two weeks or so, her health has declined so much that we weren't sure if she'd make it til I came home from England. It's been difficult to be this far from my family these past few days. I've been calling Mom mom and asking her to wait for me. I'll be home in two days, and I'd love to see her one last time. She told me she'd try.
Last night, my mom told me that Mom mom was ready to die. I said goodbye to Mom mom on the phone. She couldn't respond, but I'm told she could hear me. I'm so grateful to have Sara and Heather here, as all my friends have already gone back home. Paul too has been so supportive through the entire thing; I'm a lucky girl to have so many dependable, loving people to lean on.
As of right now, Mom mom is still here, though unconscious. I am still hoping that she can hold on, and that I'll see her Monday afternoon when I arrive back in the US. However, no matter what, I know I'll see her again in heaven. Adrienne told me that yesterday, every now and then mom mom would softly murmur "heaven." There is such a comfort to know she'll be with Jesus when she goes.
This is certainly not how I pictured my trip here ending. It's been quite the adventure, but today all my thoughts are on Taney Court. I can't wait to hop off that plane and see my family :)
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Hola, Espana!
I met Sara and Heather running on Monday morning. I was actually a little scared as they came bursting through the gate, and proceeded to run full force at me down the hill. That was one epic group hug.
Having them in Leeds was a blast. They got to meet a few of the friends I still have here; most jetted off a few days prior to the girls arrival. It is odd to have people from home here- it´s like the feeling you get when you see your teacher outside of school, know what I mean?- and really cool at the same time. It´s also odd not having Adrienne here with us, as she is our fourth wheel. The door to my bedroom won´t even open fully with all three of us jammed in, but that´s what college is all about ay.
This week I said goodbye to my Leeds exchange friends, which was just as hard as I thought it would be. They are a new kind of friend group for me in that I have literally only known them for 5 months, but they have shared memories of a lifetime with me. That really creates a special bond.
Yesterday, the three of us girls flew out of sunny Leeds into rainy Barcelona (???) and met up with a friend of Paul´s, Blanca. Blanca studied with Paul at UPenn last year, so it´s been really interesting talking about study abroad with a European who´s been on exchange in America, exactly opposite of me. Blanca and her mother (Dude, can that woman cook) could not be more accommodating or hospitable. It´s a totally different experience living in an actual home of the country´s natives, as opposed to a hostel with other travellers.
Today was a great day of sight seeing with Blanca as our tour guide. We are off to eat dinner (at 9pm, as it´s done in Spain) with Blanca and some friends. More later :) Adiós!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Scotland
I love sitting down to update my blog. It's been such a good part of my England trip. Plus I was craving candy just now, and I happened to have some- don't you love when that happens. (side note- a good chunk of English candy is baby shaped. I think that's just really weird. Gummy babies? Really?) Anyway, nothing better than a satisfied craving and a blog update :D
Went to Edinburgh, Scotland this week for two days. What a country. On my way over to the UK, I met a Scotsman in the airport who told me I must must must see Edinburgh. He also insisted that I take the train, not the bus, as the scenery was unbeatable. He was right. I boarded a 7am train with Jordan (after 2 hours of sleep- Ugh), who let me have the window seat; what a gentleman. My earphones had broken the night before, and believe you me, traveling with no music is my idea of a nightmare. However, the scenery was enough to entertain me for the three hours I spent aboard. The coast of Scotland is so beautiful! I even saw a trailer park on the side of a Scottish cliff. Not too shabby.
I was welcomed off the train with bagpipes and sunshine. Oh, Europe. I love you. Jordan and I met up with Chloe and Danielle who were already there. The four of us had a great two days. I was dubbed navigator right off the bat; Danielle is determined to sharpen my map reading skills before this term is out. The first day we had more than one moment of me hunched over a map, with Jordan "I'll give you a hint- it's that way," and Danielle "Jordan- Let her do it!!" Sigh. I am going to miss these people :) We did heaps of sightseeing, and spent a large chunk of the day hiking up to Arthurs Seat, 823 feet above Edinburgh which was quite the trek, but totally worth it. Up top is a 360 degree panoramic view of the city. I accidentally littered a Tesco plastic bag off the top. Oops.
That night, we were thrilled to find a great Tex Mex place similar to Chipotle (we all miss Chipotle :), and ate a well earned meal of burritos. Sweet. We headed back to our accomodation, an artsy fartsy 1960s themed hostel. There were three, yes three, snorers in our room that night. It was a little unreal. After a day of hiking on two hours sleep, I slept like a log. (This is funny, because when I sleep my body is actually quite log-like. Anyway.)
The next day started and ended with Nutella on toast, a breakfast I am definitely bringing back to the States. We went on a free walking tour that was amazing. Saw everything, and heard lots of history. A highlight was seeing the cafe where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter. Awesome.
Our train ride home was lovely as well. The train was mostly empty, which is always nice. Jordan did manage to flick a guy off when he meant to give him the peace sign- cultural gap at its finest.
Back in Leeds now. The weather did a 180 while I was gone. The sun bakes my room all day, and window hardly qualifies as a window. It opens enough for me to stick my pointer finger out :(
This afternoon my flatmate, Todd went at it with a screw driver, and it opens fully now. I have found that if I crack my door open with my bedside table, I create a pleasant cross breeze. Thank goodness!
Sara and Heather arrive tomorrow, and will stay for the remainder of my semester. In a way tonight marks the end of my individual experience abroad. What an adventure.
More later!
Abby
Went to Edinburgh, Scotland this week for two days. What a country. On my way over to the UK, I met a Scotsman in the airport who told me I must must must see Edinburgh. He also insisted that I take the train, not the bus, as the scenery was unbeatable. He was right. I boarded a 7am train with Jordan (after 2 hours of sleep- Ugh), who let me have the window seat; what a gentleman. My earphones had broken the night before, and believe you me, traveling with no music is my idea of a nightmare. However, the scenery was enough to entertain me for the three hours I spent aboard. The coast of Scotland is so beautiful! I even saw a trailer park on the side of a Scottish cliff. Not too shabby.
I was welcomed off the train with bagpipes and sunshine. Oh, Europe. I love you. Jordan and I met up with Chloe and Danielle who were already there. The four of us had a great two days. I was dubbed navigator right off the bat; Danielle is determined to sharpen my map reading skills before this term is out. The first day we had more than one moment of me hunched over a map, with Jordan "I'll give you a hint- it's that way," and Danielle "Jordan- Let her do it!!" Sigh. I am going to miss these people :) We did heaps of sightseeing, and spent a large chunk of the day hiking up to Arthurs Seat, 823 feet above Edinburgh which was quite the trek, but totally worth it. Up top is a 360 degree panoramic view of the city. I accidentally littered a Tesco plastic bag off the top. Oops.
That night, we were thrilled to find a great Tex Mex place similar to Chipotle (we all miss Chipotle :), and ate a well earned meal of burritos. Sweet. We headed back to our accomodation, an artsy fartsy 1960s themed hostel. There were three, yes three, snorers in our room that night. It was a little unreal. After a day of hiking on two hours sleep, I slept like a log. (This is funny, because when I sleep my body is actually quite log-like. Anyway.)
The next day started and ended with Nutella on toast, a breakfast I am definitely bringing back to the States. We went on a free walking tour that was amazing. Saw everything, and heard lots of history. A highlight was seeing the cafe where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter. Awesome.
Our train ride home was lovely as well. The train was mostly empty, which is always nice. Jordan did manage to flick a guy off when he meant to give him the peace sign- cultural gap at its finest.
Back in Leeds now. The weather did a 180 while I was gone. The sun bakes my room all day, and window hardly qualifies as a window. It opens enough for me to stick my pointer finger out :(
This afternoon my flatmate, Todd went at it with a screw driver, and it opens fully now. I have found that if I crack my door open with my bedside table, I create a pleasant cross breeze. Thank goodness!
Sara and Heather arrive tomorrow, and will stay for the remainder of my semester. In a way tonight marks the end of my individual experience abroad. What an adventure.
More later!
Abby
Thursday, May 13, 2010
1000 Awesome Things
A friend of mine, Emma, had her mother change her facebook password, so as not to be distracted from her essays. Honestly, the amount of disipline some people possess amazes me.
A few days ago, she happened to stumble across this blog, "1000 Awesome Things" that has us both addicted. (So much for avoiding distraction ay.) It's a list of 1000 little things that make life awesome, such as, "watching something download really fast," "getting the booth side of the restaurant table," "the moment at a concert when the crowd figures out what song they're playing," and "riding home with a box of pizza on your lap." LOVE IT.
I happen to pride myself on the fact that I always appreciate the little things in life, but this website has me feeling like such a slacker. It must have made Emma feel the same way. Last night, walking around the city, Emma literally stopped, leaned over, and smelled a bush. Sylvia asked her what she was doing, to which Emma replied "Stopping to smell the roses." Fair enough, Em. (I'm pretty sure that bush didn't have any roses, but for the sake of this anecdote, I'll pretend that it did.)
Either way, the website has inspired me to make my own list of the Awesome Things in my life.
Going to call someone, picking up your phone, and seeing that they are already calling you (so trippy when that happens!)
Responding to 'Adrienne', even though it's Abby.
Double checking to see if I've spelled a word right, and seeing that I have.
Realizing on a Saturday that I haven't checked Postsecret yet.
When the total is $6.10, and I have a dime.
Wrapping up in a sheet, right out of the dryer.
When I pull into the driveway just as the song ends.
Wearing my boyfriend's Tshirt.
Replaying clips from Americas Funniest Home Videos in my head, and giggling in class.
Having an "accent".
Going into the city with my morning hair.
When the sales clerk tells me that the soda is actually buy one, get one free, and then lets me run back real fast to grab another.
The sound a coke can makes when you open it.
When the bus and I arrive simultaneously at the stop.
Shamelessly listening to crappy pop music at full volume in Ruby's van.
The warm feeling I get inside when I hear The Office's theme song.
When I'm not sure if I've pulled the van far enough into the garage, and watching as the garage door slowly closes behind me, without stopping to go back up :)
When Mom mom and Pop pop whisper back and forth in church, but it's really loud haha
When Phoebe gets her head stuck in the trashcan lid. Talk about caught red handed.
Not petaling as I go down a hill on my bike.
When you stick your foot in the pool water, expecting it to be really cold, when it's actually just the right temperature.
Check out Neil Pasricha's at www.1000awesomethings.com :)
A few days ago, she happened to stumble across this blog, "1000 Awesome Things" that has us both addicted. (So much for avoiding distraction ay.) It's a list of 1000 little things that make life awesome, such as, "watching something download really fast," "getting the booth side of the restaurant table," "the moment at a concert when the crowd figures out what song they're playing," and "riding home with a box of pizza on your lap." LOVE IT.
I happen to pride myself on the fact that I always appreciate the little things in life, but this website has me feeling like such a slacker. It must have made Emma feel the same way. Last night, walking around the city, Emma literally stopped, leaned over, and smelled a bush. Sylvia asked her what she was doing, to which Emma replied "Stopping to smell the roses." Fair enough, Em. (I'm pretty sure that bush didn't have any roses, but for the sake of this anecdote, I'll pretend that it did.)
Either way, the website has inspired me to make my own list of the Awesome Things in my life.
Going to call someone, picking up your phone, and seeing that they are already calling you (so trippy when that happens!)
Responding to 'Adrienne', even though it's Abby.
Double checking to see if I've spelled a word right, and seeing that I have.
Realizing on a Saturday that I haven't checked Postsecret yet.
When the total is $6.10, and I have a dime.
Wrapping up in a sheet, right out of the dryer.
When I pull into the driveway just as the song ends.
Wearing my boyfriend's Tshirt.
Replaying clips from Americas Funniest Home Videos in my head, and giggling in class.
Having an "accent".
Going into the city with my morning hair.
When the sales clerk tells me that the soda is actually buy one, get one free, and then lets me run back real fast to grab another.
The sound a coke can makes when you open it.
When the bus and I arrive simultaneously at the stop.
Shamelessly listening to crappy pop music at full volume in Ruby's van.
The warm feeling I get inside when I hear The Office's theme song.
When I'm not sure if I've pulled the van far enough into the garage, and watching as the garage door slowly closes behind me, without stopping to go back up :)
When Mom mom and Pop pop whisper back and forth in church, but it's really loud haha
When Phoebe gets her head stuck in the trashcan lid. Talk about caught red handed.
Not petaling as I go down a hill on my bike.
When you stick your foot in the pool water, expecting it to be really cold, when it's actually just the right temperature.
Check out Neil Pasricha's at www.1000awesomethings.com :)
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Spring Time in England??
I've spent the last week in a coat. It's been a whopping 45 degrees here. UGH.
When I first arrived in England, some randomer on the bus was telling me that England is the only place he goes where he finds himself talking about the weather. He said he thought that in general, talking about the weather was pretty lame, and I agreed. However, the weather is so all over the place here, I find myself bringing it up all the time. You wake up and it's sunny, then clouds come, rain falls, turns to hail, the clouds part, the sun sneaks back out, sets, and the wind picks up. You find yourself wishing you had gloves and a scarf (why did I not bring a scarf?), then remind yourself that it's May. Wtf, Leeds.
Despite the weather, England is perfect. Perfect. I'm not ready to leave. Yes, part of me is pumped to see my Americans again, to eat a Chipotle burrito, walk the boardwalk, and honestly, get back to waitressing, believe it or not. However, I feel like I've only just completely adjusted to life here, (though I still have a mini heart attack when I see a little kid riding in what is the USA's drivers seat... can't get used to it, ay) and I'm not ready to say goodbye. Knowing I may never see some of my friends from exchange ever again sucks. On the other hand, knowing that if I find myself in Germany one day, I'll have somewhere to crash is pretty sweet :)
Truth be told, I'm just bummed that when I come home, people won't think my accent is cool.
Hahaha :) But seriously.
I literally just finished my third paper about 40 minutes ago, which means one more exam, and I'm done with my Junior year of uni. How crazy is that.
Heather and Sara arrive in about two weeks- can't wait. I'm looking forward to playing host, and showing off some of my new cooking skills!! :D It will be really fun to share some of this experience with people from back home.
Adrienne just got her acceptance letter from a program in Saville, Spain, and will be studying abroad for the entire school year, starting this upcoming September. I'm so proud of her- that girl is so cut out for study abroad, I know she'll have the time of her life. It will be strange to be back in the States while she's here, as I'm used to the opposite. Maybe one day we'll travel some of Europe together :)
Hope you're all enjoying the Summer weather back home! Give the sun my love... ;)
When I first arrived in England, some randomer on the bus was telling me that England is the only place he goes where he finds himself talking about the weather. He said he thought that in general, talking about the weather was pretty lame, and I agreed. However, the weather is so all over the place here, I find myself bringing it up all the time. You wake up and it's sunny, then clouds come, rain falls, turns to hail, the clouds part, the sun sneaks back out, sets, and the wind picks up. You find yourself wishing you had gloves and a scarf (why did I not bring a scarf?), then remind yourself that it's May. Wtf, Leeds.
Despite the weather, England is perfect. Perfect. I'm not ready to leave. Yes, part of me is pumped to see my Americans again, to eat a Chipotle burrito, walk the boardwalk, and honestly, get back to waitressing, believe it or not. However, I feel like I've only just completely adjusted to life here, (though I still have a mini heart attack when I see a little kid riding in what is the USA's drivers seat... can't get used to it, ay) and I'm not ready to say goodbye. Knowing I may never see some of my friends from exchange ever again sucks. On the other hand, knowing that if I find myself in Germany one day, I'll have somewhere to crash is pretty sweet :)
Truth be told, I'm just bummed that when I come home, people won't think my accent is cool.
Hahaha :) But seriously.
I literally just finished my third paper about 40 minutes ago, which means one more exam, and I'm done with my Junior year of uni. How crazy is that.
Heather and Sara arrive in about two weeks- can't wait. I'm looking forward to playing host, and showing off some of my new cooking skills!! :D It will be really fun to share some of this experience with people from back home.
Adrienne just got her acceptance letter from a program in Saville, Spain, and will be studying abroad for the entire school year, starting this upcoming September. I'm so proud of her- that girl is so cut out for study abroad, I know she'll have the time of her life. It will be strange to be back in the States while she's here, as I'm used to the opposite. Maybe one day we'll travel some of Europe together :)
Hope you're all enjoying the Summer weather back home! Give the sun my love... ;)
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Spring time in England
The sky is officially light until around 8pm now, and I couldn't be more thrilled about it.
I always get excited when the seasons change, but never quite like I do when Winter turns to Spring. For me, the joys of Winter end abruptly on December 26th, so I'm welcoming Spring with open arms (and bare toes).
Writing those papers wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I do the same thing at the end of every term, and completely freak out for a good 3 days, before I remember that stress is just not for me. It just isn't worth it. You know, I accomplish more unwound anyways. And honestly, in the end, I'll always choose a relaxed B over a stressed out A.
One of my papers was on Bloody Sunday, which happened in Northern Ireland about 38 years ago. I am embarrassed at how little I knew about it before I came to the UK (it is amazing how much British students know about my history, and how little I know about theirs), but after this paper, I feel so connected to it. If you don't know what went down, it's worth googleing. The cool thing about it though, is that there is a inquiry going on right now involving it, and the verdict is announced on May 6th of this year. I can't wait to hear the results. It was awesome to be writitng an paper on something so current.
Speaking of writing, I do have some exciting news to share! My Fiction Writing professor from last Fall does an internship every term, and picks one student to work along side him. It's an envied position; he has tons of writing connections around Baltimore, not to mention is just brilliant to begin with. That said, I was beside myself in excitement when I got an email from him this week asking me to be his intern! I admire him so much as a writer, and can't wait to learn what he has to teach me. It's made a big impact on my future goals; I'm hoping that this interniship will open up some doors for a potential career in writing.
If nothing else, these last few months have proven to me that there may be bigger plans in store for me than the ones I'd set out for myself. Coming out of high school, I was admittedgly less than motivated about my future, Vinny can vouch for that one :) The fact that I am even here right now in Leeds still shocks me in some ways. I've got heaps to learn, in the way of writing, but mainly just in life, but I'm pumped. Lame, but remember that whole kick Oprah was on? About "being the best version of yourself," or something? Yeah. I'm just all about that these days. Thanks, Oprah.
Went down to London this weekend and had a blast. I'm pretty spoiled at this point. Coming home to so few weekend options is going to be an adjustment, that's for sure. 6 more weeks here, and counting. I'm not ready to go home. I wish I had another semester abroad. Woe is me. I only get five months in Europe. Truly, sometimes I could use a good slap across the face :) I am loving every minute here, even the ones spent hunched over a Microsoft document, and refuse to take any of it for granted.
More later!
Abby
I always get excited when the seasons change, but never quite like I do when Winter turns to Spring. For me, the joys of Winter end abruptly on December 26th, so I'm welcoming Spring with open arms (and bare toes).
Writing those papers wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I do the same thing at the end of every term, and completely freak out for a good 3 days, before I remember that stress is just not for me. It just isn't worth it. You know, I accomplish more unwound anyways. And honestly, in the end, I'll always choose a relaxed B over a stressed out A.
One of my papers was on Bloody Sunday, which happened in Northern Ireland about 38 years ago. I am embarrassed at how little I knew about it before I came to the UK (it is amazing how much British students know about my history, and how little I know about theirs), but after this paper, I feel so connected to it. If you don't know what went down, it's worth googleing. The cool thing about it though, is that there is a inquiry going on right now involving it, and the verdict is announced on May 6th of this year. I can't wait to hear the results. It was awesome to be writitng an paper on something so current.
Speaking of writing, I do have some exciting news to share! My Fiction Writing professor from last Fall does an internship every term, and picks one student to work along side him. It's an envied position; he has tons of writing connections around Baltimore, not to mention is just brilliant to begin with. That said, I was beside myself in excitement when I got an email from him this week asking me to be his intern! I admire him so much as a writer, and can't wait to learn what he has to teach me. It's made a big impact on my future goals; I'm hoping that this interniship will open up some doors for a potential career in writing.
If nothing else, these last few months have proven to me that there may be bigger plans in store for me than the ones I'd set out for myself. Coming out of high school, I was admittedgly less than motivated about my future, Vinny can vouch for that one :) The fact that I am even here right now in Leeds still shocks me in some ways. I've got heaps to learn, in the way of writing, but mainly just in life, but I'm pumped. Lame, but remember that whole kick Oprah was on? About "being the best version of yourself," or something? Yeah. I'm just all about that these days. Thanks, Oprah.
Went down to London this weekend and had a blast. I'm pretty spoiled at this point. Coming home to so few weekend options is going to be an adjustment, that's for sure. 6 more weeks here, and counting. I'm not ready to go home. I wish I had another semester abroad. Woe is me. I only get five months in Europe. Truly, sometimes I could use a good slap across the face :) I am loving every minute here, even the ones spent hunched over a Microsoft document, and refuse to take any of it for granted.
More later!
Abby
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Volcano Eyjafjallajokull
Really. It's like they ran out of names, so someone just pounded a keyboard and called it a day.
My first week back in Leeds has been pretty good. It was great reuniting with friends here, and hearing stories of everyone's Spring Break adventures.
I certainly made it back into the UK just in time. I've heard of flights being cancelled for snow or storms, but volcanic ash? Didn't see that coming. I honeslty haven't seen the sky this empty since 9/11. I feel lucky that I'm not being directly affected; I know of a few people who are stuck in countries they were visiting over Spring Break, and are missing exams and such- what a mess. My friend Danielle is actually putting up three girls she knows from home who are stuck in Italy at the moment, but are slowly making their way back to Ireland, where they're studying. I also have a few friends in London who were meant to fly home last week, and are just chilling out til things clear up.
As far as Leeds goes, we've had mostly clear skies. The produce isle at Morrisons is a little lacking, but what can you do.
Heather and Sara are due to fly over here on May 24th. I assume planes will be flying in and out of the UK by then... :/
In other news, there is none.
I feel like I've been at my desk all week writing these papers. Finding the motivation has been super hard. Uni (college) in the England is super lax. Until this week, I'd done one group project and that's about it, which means I really can't complain now, ay? For real though, it's like my body can't remember how to do school work. Wondering if this will effect me when I return to Towson for Fall. Yikes.
Hope to have a been a few places other than my desk by my next post ;) Til then!
Abby
My first week back in Leeds has been pretty good. It was great reuniting with friends here, and hearing stories of everyone's Spring Break adventures.
I certainly made it back into the UK just in time. I've heard of flights being cancelled for snow or storms, but volcanic ash? Didn't see that coming. I honeslty haven't seen the sky this empty since 9/11. I feel lucky that I'm not being directly affected; I know of a few people who are stuck in countries they were visiting over Spring Break, and are missing exams and such- what a mess. My friend Danielle is actually putting up three girls she knows from home who are stuck in Italy at the moment, but are slowly making their way back to Ireland, where they're studying. I also have a few friends in London who were meant to fly home last week, and are just chilling out til things clear up.
As far as Leeds goes, we've had mostly clear skies. The produce isle at Morrisons is a little lacking, but what can you do.
Heather and Sara are due to fly over here on May 24th. I assume planes will be flying in and out of the UK by then... :/
In other news, there is none.
I feel like I've been at my desk all week writing these papers. Finding the motivation has been super hard. Uni (college) in the England is super lax. Until this week, I'd done one group project and that's about it, which means I really can't complain now, ay? For real though, it's like my body can't remember how to do school work. Wondering if this will effect me when I return to Towson for Fall. Yikes.
Hope to have a been a few places other than my desk by my next post ;) Til then!
Abby
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Home Sweet Home
I couldn't have been more thrilled to see the beaming faces of Mom, Dad and Allison when I got off the plane from Rome. I'd missed them! I love living in the UK. I love an adventure. But dude. There is no feeling like the one you get from returning home. I adore the Ackermanns. End of story.
That's not the end of the story though :)
I came home to find some things changed. It was sorrowing to hear the news of Mom mom's cancer spreading, but I was excited to hear that my grandparents were now living with us on Taney Court. I spent a lot of quality time with them over break, and it was just lovely. Being roomies with those two was so fun. I love them to pieces, and can't wait to see them again in Summer.
My plane landed at 2pm US time, and 9pm Rome time, so by 8, I was ready for bed. My mom, however, told me that Adrienne's bus would arrive in DC that night at 11. Not going to lie, I wasn't too keen to go and pick her up, as I was super tired, but mom pretty much insisted. So I dragged myself into the van, so tired I could hardly keep my eyes open. We pulled up to the station and saw the bus pull in. Dad asked if I was going to get out and greet her. I mumbled something about how I couldn't get up I was so tired; Adrienne would understand. That said, I was shocked when the van door opened and there stood Paul. Ha, even writing about it now brings a huge smile to my face. I couldn't get into his arms faster. That was one heck of a second wind :)
The time I spent at home was a dream. Blue skies, sandy beaches, and everyone I love. Meeting Jolie was great. What a cool kid. Leaving to come back to Leeds was good as well. It was a little sad saying goodbye to my parents, and definitely hard saying goodbye to Paul, but it's a good feeling to leave somewhere you love being, to return to somewhere else you love being. I am one lucky girl, I'll tell you that :)
The next few weeks are going to be a little tough. I've got LOADS of school work to complete, although I really can't complain. The past few weeks have been a-mazing. Easily two of the best weeks of my life :)
Love to you all!
Rome
Upon our less than ideal arrival, we hit up a near by diner for breakfast, which turned into lunch, as we stayed for a good two and a half hours. The pastries in Italy made up for the teeny tiny coffees (my one qualm with Italian culture). They are to die for. We found a nearby internet cafe, sent emails to our parents, and made our way back to the hostel for a much needed 2 hour nap. After this, Italy is all a blur to me now time wise, so I think it best that I seperate my anecdotes and memories into sights:
Castle of Saint Angelo:
Maybe because it was my first real "sight" in Rome, but the Castle of Saint Angelo will now always hold sentimental value to me. Sitting on the ledge over looking the water, bridge and castle, I spent a lot of time thinking of my Mom mom back home. Before I came to England, Mom mom told me of how she's always wanted to travel around Europe and how I shouldn't take a moment of it for granted; how I should see it for the both of us. I felt (and feel) so incredibly lucky to have the oppertunities I do here. I know I've said it a million times, but I think it's something I need to remind myself of daily. Loads of people die without ever leaving the East Coast; it's humbling even to be able to do this. Every day here has a Carpe Diem feel; I can't get enough of that.
Trevi Fountain:
We made sure to see it lit up at night, and during daylight. There are a few how-to's as far as coin throwing at the Trevi Fountain goes. From what we understood, if you throw one coin into the fountain (always with right hand over left shoulder), it's a wish for a return to Rome. So our first visit to the fountain, I threw one coin. It's also said that if you throw two coins, you're wishing for romance. So our second time, I threw two coins with a certain Australian in mind. More on that later ;)
Colosseum:
Oh, the Colosseum. You know how you'll walk around Boston, or somewhere, and be like 'Cool! That building is 200 years old.'? When you walk around Rome you're like...'Holy crap. This place has been around for AGES.' We're talking BC. If that doesn't give you goosebumps, I don't know what will. Standing in the middle of the Colosseum, where a good 1/2 million gladiators were slaughtered was a little unreal. Even just walking around on the sidewalks of Rome...every where you step there've got to be a hundred stories. We took an epic nap outside the Colosseum on the grass, and later picniced in the same place at sunset. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
Palantine Hill:
This was probaby my favorite sight in Rome. A lot of the credit goes to our amazing tour guide, a Scottish guy who I could listen to speak for forever. Again, walking around where Roman emperors once resided was so cool. The remains were few. The place is a skeleton, really; you just let your imagination add flesh. There were orange trees all over Rome- tons on Palantine Hill. For lack of a new adjective, ah!- Beautiful.
Roman Forum:
Would have been cooler if it hadn't followed the awesomeness that was Palantine Hill.
Vatican:
The vatican took all day, and what a great day it was. Everything I saw reminded me of a movie (I hope one day I'll be traveled enough that it will be the other way around). Original works by Michael Angelo himself....unreal. We were told not to take pictures inside the Sistine Chapel, but everyone was. You can bet I jumped on that band wagon. Even now, I can't believe I was there.
Saint Peter's Basilica:
Stunning. There was a 'week before Good Friday' buzz as well, which was cool. Yeah. That pope is a big deal ay.
Spanish Steps:
All I really remember of the Spanish Steps was this group of about 50 Spanish students who were dancing, clapping and singing. It was obvious that the crowds found them obnoxious. I found the whole scene endearing. Gotta love patriotism.
Pantheon:
The fact that this place looks as good as it does, this many centuries later baffles me. The grave of Rafael was cool to see. The guy died at 35 from an STD (tisk tisk), but you've got to give him credit for making those 35 years really count.
Whew. I feel like I could never have enough time to write about everything I saw and did, but that's a pretty thorough jist. My last meal in Italy was really memerable. My friends and I were sad about it being our last night together. We discussed how odd it is to share such a huge experience with people you've only really just met, and will maybe never see again. We ate at a local place that our tour guide recommended. On account of it being my last night, and the fact that the entire menu was in Italian, I told the waiter to do all my ordering for me. My only request was that it be something I wouldn't be able to eat in America. He told me had just the thing, and brought out the pizza that the place was named after. It had everything on it- mushrooms, basil, ham, tomato and tuna. Yes, tuna. Turns out it was amazing. Shocker? Not really. Then for dessert he brought me three slices of cake- each more delicious than the last. I wouldn't mind eating Italian food for the remainder of my life.
The next morning it was back to the good old US of A :)
Sigh. What a trip.
Pulling out of the train station, I didn't feel sad at all. There is no way I won't be back someday.
Castle of Saint Angelo:
Maybe because it was my first real "sight" in Rome, but the Castle of Saint Angelo will now always hold sentimental value to me. Sitting on the ledge over looking the water, bridge and castle, I spent a lot of time thinking of my Mom mom back home. Before I came to England, Mom mom told me of how she's always wanted to travel around Europe and how I shouldn't take a moment of it for granted; how I should see it for the both of us. I felt (and feel) so incredibly lucky to have the oppertunities I do here. I know I've said it a million times, but I think it's something I need to remind myself of daily. Loads of people die without ever leaving the East Coast; it's humbling even to be able to do this. Every day here has a Carpe Diem feel; I can't get enough of that.
Trevi Fountain:
We made sure to see it lit up at night, and during daylight. There are a few how-to's as far as coin throwing at the Trevi Fountain goes. From what we understood, if you throw one coin into the fountain (always with right hand over left shoulder), it's a wish for a return to Rome. So our first visit to the fountain, I threw one coin. It's also said that if you throw two coins, you're wishing for romance. So our second time, I threw two coins with a certain Australian in mind. More on that later ;)
Colosseum:
Oh, the Colosseum. You know how you'll walk around Boston, or somewhere, and be like 'Cool! That building is 200 years old.'? When you walk around Rome you're like...'Holy crap. This place has been around for AGES.' We're talking BC. If that doesn't give you goosebumps, I don't know what will. Standing in the middle of the Colosseum, where a good 1/2 million gladiators were slaughtered was a little unreal. Even just walking around on the sidewalks of Rome...every where you step there've got to be a hundred stories. We took an epic nap outside the Colosseum on the grass, and later picniced in the same place at sunset. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
Palantine Hill:
This was probaby my favorite sight in Rome. A lot of the credit goes to our amazing tour guide, a Scottish guy who I could listen to speak for forever. Again, walking around where Roman emperors once resided was so cool. The remains were few. The place is a skeleton, really; you just let your imagination add flesh. There were orange trees all over Rome- tons on Palantine Hill. For lack of a new adjective, ah!- Beautiful.
Roman Forum:
Would have been cooler if it hadn't followed the awesomeness that was Palantine Hill.
Vatican:
The vatican took all day, and what a great day it was. Everything I saw reminded me of a movie (I hope one day I'll be traveled enough that it will be the other way around). Original works by Michael Angelo himself....unreal. We were told not to take pictures inside the Sistine Chapel, but everyone was. You can bet I jumped on that band wagon. Even now, I can't believe I was there.
Saint Peter's Basilica:
Stunning. There was a 'week before Good Friday' buzz as well, which was cool. Yeah. That pope is a big deal ay.
Spanish Steps:
All I really remember of the Spanish Steps was this group of about 50 Spanish students who were dancing, clapping and singing. It was obvious that the crowds found them obnoxious. I found the whole scene endearing. Gotta love patriotism.
Pantheon:
The fact that this place looks as good as it does, this many centuries later baffles me. The grave of Rafael was cool to see. The guy died at 35 from an STD (tisk tisk), but you've got to give him credit for making those 35 years really count.
Whew. I feel like I could never have enough time to write about everything I saw and did, but that's a pretty thorough jist. My last meal in Italy was really memerable. My friends and I were sad about it being our last night together. We discussed how odd it is to share such a huge experience with people you've only really just met, and will maybe never see again. We ate at a local place that our tour guide recommended. On account of it being my last night, and the fact that the entire menu was in Italian, I told the waiter to do all my ordering for me. My only request was that it be something I wouldn't be able to eat in America. He told me had just the thing, and brought out the pizza that the place was named after. It had everything on it- mushrooms, basil, ham, tomato and tuna. Yes, tuna. Turns out it was amazing. Shocker? Not really. Then for dessert he brought me three slices of cake- each more delicious than the last. I wouldn't mind eating Italian food for the remainder of my life.
The next morning it was back to the good old US of A :)
Sigh. What a trip.
Pulling out of the train station, I didn't feel sad at all. There is no way I won't be back someday.
Venice
Do I need to mention that I didn't sleep at all on March 24th? I got into bed around 10pm. I tossed until 12am when I skyped Paul, freaking out that I'd forgotten something, and was told that it was all fine and to go back to bed. I turned until 3am when I got out of bed to cook and eat two bowls of oatmeal....don't know what that was about...and then finally 5am arrived. I looked out my window to find Leeds foggy and cold- good day to fly to Venice? I think so.
After a pricy cab ride, Noah, Jordan, Danielle and I found ourselves at Bradford airport; I don't think four people have ever been so energetic at 6:30am. We were disappointed to find that our bag was 10 kilos to heavy to carry on, and blown to find that each kilo over would cost us 10 pounds. We just weren't having that. Half an hour later our bag matched the weight limit, and we had each donned a sweatshirt or two. Hey, you gotta do what you gotta do. Later in the security line, Danielle turned to us in sheer panic when she realized she'd left her Eurorail pass (which costed her about 300 US dollars, and was going to get her around for the next 17 days) back at Suagrwell. Our plane was to take off in 50 minutes. She took off for the airport exit, leaving the rest of us to wonder if she'd make it back in time to catch the flight. Missing it would cost her about as much as that Eurorail pass if she wanted to make it to Italy in time. We sat anxiously at the gate, texting Danielle and praying that she'd make it. With about 10 minutes to spare, Danielle arrived at the gate. Quick, yet emotional group hug, and we boarded the plane.
I fell for Italy the minute I stepped off that plane. We were met with a warm breeze and sunshine; our first meal was legit Italian pizza. Mmmmm. Venice is a city like I've never seen before. The entire thing is on water, so much so that very few people drive. People literally park their boats outside their homes. There is little to do in Venice, as far as touring goes, but just walking around the city was amazing. It is BEAUTIFUL. The first night we took a taxi boat around to see the city at night. Stunning. My camera didn't capture the half of it. A plate of tortellini later, and I hit the sack at our hostel, completely exhasted, content and grateful.
The next day we awoke early. Every day I spent in Italy was 8am to 12am. Sleep is something you obviously can't go without, but to spend more than 8 hours in bed in a place like Italy would be a crime. We had plans to go on a boat tour to Burano, an island off of Venice, and in line for the boat met 3 other Americans also on Spring break who have been studying abroad in Greece. We spent pretty much all day with them after that. It was fun to compare exchange stories, and to hear what life was like in Greece.
Burano was something else. My friend Lorena compared it a crayola box, and I couldn't put it better. Even on a foggy day it popped with color. I don't think I crossed a single bridge in the whole place without stopping to snap a picture. (ps- If I'd been shy about it before, in Italy I threw my pride out the window and unashamedly took touristy pictures the entire time. My camera was an extension of my arm, really.
That night we said goodbye to beautiful Venice, and made our way to the train station. Now, in planning our Italy excursions, my friends and I were all about two things- see as much as possible, and pay as little as possible. Hence our decision to book an overnight train to Rome. It would save us a- time we could be spending traipsing around Italy, and b- money that would have been spent on a hostel for that night. We realized it might be a little difficult to sleep upright on a bumpy train, but we figured we'd be exhasted from the day and what not. Noah brought sleeping pills just in case. I personally was a little concerned. I never fall asleep in cars or buses, but I figured I'd take a chance. Wooooah buddy. Was that a mistake.
I sat shoulder to shoulder with Noah and some other older man, and knee to knee with Danielle the whole night. The train stopped every 15 minutes or so, as people opened up our doors to see if there was room. Room. As if.
One man opened the door and started yelling in Italian, while I said "Non parlo Italiano" over and over. (Paul taught me some Italian before the trip- SO helpful). Needless to say, we didn't get a wink of sleep. We arrived in Rome around 7am, having been awake for 23 hours. We were not the happiest of campers. We managed to find our hostel, Italian signs and all, and I nearly cried when the concierge told us our room wouldn't be ready until noon.
We washed our faces in the lobby bathroom and decided to embrace the moment for what it was. We were in Rome, afterall.
After a pricy cab ride, Noah, Jordan, Danielle and I found ourselves at Bradford airport; I don't think four people have ever been so energetic at 6:30am. We were disappointed to find that our bag was 10 kilos to heavy to carry on, and blown to find that each kilo over would cost us 10 pounds. We just weren't having that. Half an hour later our bag matched the weight limit, and we had each donned a sweatshirt or two. Hey, you gotta do what you gotta do. Later in the security line, Danielle turned to us in sheer panic when she realized she'd left her Eurorail pass (which costed her about 300 US dollars, and was going to get her around for the next 17 days) back at Suagrwell. Our plane was to take off in 50 minutes. She took off for the airport exit, leaving the rest of us to wonder if she'd make it back in time to catch the flight. Missing it would cost her about as much as that Eurorail pass if she wanted to make it to Italy in time. We sat anxiously at the gate, texting Danielle and praying that she'd make it. With about 10 minutes to spare, Danielle arrived at the gate. Quick, yet emotional group hug, and we boarded the plane.
I fell for Italy the minute I stepped off that plane. We were met with a warm breeze and sunshine; our first meal was legit Italian pizza. Mmmmm. Venice is a city like I've never seen before. The entire thing is on water, so much so that very few people drive. People literally park their boats outside their homes. There is little to do in Venice, as far as touring goes, but just walking around the city was amazing. It is BEAUTIFUL. The first night we took a taxi boat around to see the city at night. Stunning. My camera didn't capture the half of it. A plate of tortellini later, and I hit the sack at our hostel, completely exhasted, content and grateful.
The next day we awoke early. Every day I spent in Italy was 8am to 12am. Sleep is something you obviously can't go without, but to spend more than 8 hours in bed in a place like Italy would be a crime. We had plans to go on a boat tour to Burano, an island off of Venice, and in line for the boat met 3 other Americans also on Spring break who have been studying abroad in Greece. We spent pretty much all day with them after that. It was fun to compare exchange stories, and to hear what life was like in Greece.
Burano was something else. My friend Lorena compared it a crayola box, and I couldn't put it better. Even on a foggy day it popped with color. I don't think I crossed a single bridge in the whole place without stopping to snap a picture. (ps- If I'd been shy about it before, in Italy I threw my pride out the window and unashamedly took touristy pictures the entire time. My camera was an extension of my arm, really.
That night we said goodbye to beautiful Venice, and made our way to the train station. Now, in planning our Italy excursions, my friends and I were all about two things- see as much as possible, and pay as little as possible. Hence our decision to book an overnight train to Rome. It would save us a- time we could be spending traipsing around Italy, and b- money that would have been spent on a hostel for that night. We realized it might be a little difficult to sleep upright on a bumpy train, but we figured we'd be exhasted from the day and what not. Noah brought sleeping pills just in case. I personally was a little concerned. I never fall asleep in cars or buses, but I figured I'd take a chance. Wooooah buddy. Was that a mistake.
I sat shoulder to shoulder with Noah and some other older man, and knee to knee with Danielle the whole night. The train stopped every 15 minutes or so, as people opened up our doors to see if there was room. Room. As if.
One man opened the door and started yelling in Italian, while I said "Non parlo Italiano" over and over. (Paul taught me some Italian before the trip- SO helpful). Needless to say, we didn't get a wink of sleep. We arrived in Rome around 7am, having been awake for 23 hours. We were not the happiest of campers. We managed to find our hostel, Italian signs and all, and I nearly cried when the concierge told us our room wouldn't be ready until noon.
We washed our faces in the lobby bathroom and decided to embrace the moment for what it was. We were in Rome, afterall.
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