From a very young age, I was introduced to the importance of literature. I can still recite the list of picnic items from Mickey Mouse’s Picnic and sing the good morning song in We Like Kindergarten. My mom introduced me to my childhood idol: Anne of Green Gables, and it is she who convinced me to pursue a … More Literature in England: What I Came Here For
As I mentioned in my last post, classes here in England really only meet once a week – a lecture and a seminar (one hour each). Attendance is only taken in one of those, and my overall grade will be based on a final essay that I write for each course. So, most of time … More Dover and Canterbury, England
I spent this week being a tourist for the most part. I wouldn’t say I’ve adjusted to London or Goldsmiths life yet, but I think that will come once I’ve started classes. I got the first part of my timetable today: Social Change and Political Action on Thursdays. As for my other three classes, it’s anyone’s … More Week the First: Look at all the free time
I have successfully survived living in London for four days now, and so far I have: conquered the Tube, ridden on top of a double decker bus, found two markets, bought living supplies (pots/pans/forks, etc.), tried to make a call from a payphone (was broken), made friends with people from different parts of the world, … More New Cross, First Impressions
The title of this draft was originally “Lake District National Park” because until just a few days ago, that’s where I thought I would end up. But upon realizing the cost of the only vacant room in the bed and breakfast, I decided to go to the Peak District instead. You’re confused, though, isn’t the … More Stirling, Scotland
While the trip itself was fraught with emotion – specifically because the whole time I was without my clothes, toiletries, camera, and UK converter – I loved my first time in Scotland. The hills surrounding Edinburgh, the history shown in monuments and architecture, and the stories (which I learned day by day) all came together … More Edinburgh, Scotland
When I first made the titles of these blog posts (to remind me to stay consistent) I envisioned this being a much longer post than the tirade it actually will be. If you are one of my three consistent readers, you may be wondering why it’s taken me so long to post – it’s because … More Touching Down in London
I spent less than 24 hours in Florence altogether, but it was so great being able to see Emilie (a fellow camp counselor from this past summer). It’s amazing how even just a small touch of familiarity can make a long trip away from home easier. We spent the evening seeing the outside of many … More Florence, Italy
Once upon a time, years before I was born, a young boy created a small altar in his closet. After pretending to be a soldier, he would come back to his room and pretend to be a priest. Where would he end up? That depended on his local priest, a Franciscan, who inspired him to … More Assisi, Italy
“Ciao, bella Verona!” –Victor in Letters to Juliet Here in Italy, I decided to bypass the larger cities like Venice, Milan, and Rome for a quieter change of pace. Verona fit my bill perfectly: touristy enough to have plenty to do while still full of local Italians going about their daily happenings. I arrived … More Verona, Italy
Mary M. McConnaha 