Ello!

So, I kind of bashed England/Yorkshire the last time I ranted on here. To be fair since I’ve been here, I’ve heard my fair share of insults on America. I’d like to call it even.

I wanted to follow up with my post because the months I’ve spent living in England haven’t been completely terrible, and I am truly grateful to experience another culture–even if we all speak the same language. I also have met some wonderful people here who don’t fall into the aforementioned categories.

That being said, I would like to dedicate this post to some of the things I appreciate/highlights/ firsts during my time in England.

London

Ever since Mary Kate & Ashley pranced around in Winning London, I’ve wanted to see the city. I’ve heard it claimed as a favorite from many people that I know, which made me all the more eager to explore. Unfortunately, the city had a thick fog hanging around, so it was difficult to see Big Ben, but otherwise it was pretty cool! My time was short and sweet. I enjoyed the bustle of Oxford Street and the glow of lanterns at night.

Ireland

If you’ve read my past post, then you’ll already know how much fun I had in Ireland. A lucky flight that I would not have had the opportunity to take unless I was living in England!

Writing

Though you’d never be able to tell from how much I slack off on my blog, I truly am passionate about writing. If I stayed back home, I would probably just be teaching and using that as an excuse not to write. Not only am I building my writing portfolio working for clients from all walks of the internet, but I also have time to do some personal writing as well. I’m grateful for this opportunity in that being in England pushed me to support myself through my skills instead of returning home to easily find a job. (I also am getting to teach as well and explore working with ESL students, which is a plus!)

Travel 

England is close enough to my family and friends from last summer in Spain, Italy, and everywhere else in Europe. Seeing them is just a quick (and affordable) flight away on a weekend, which would not be possible in America.

Overall

I’ve also:

• won a children’s book writing contest
• finally been plagued with the chicken pox at 23
• explored more parts of the world with my stellar boyfriend
• tried to take up coding again (and failed) but still tried!
• celebrated the Holi Festival in color
• taken up biking as a hobby
• became certified in pouring Guinness beer
• saw Drake in concert
• practiced my photography

As much as I can complain, I do have fun here. I’ve seen so many different places, discovered new foods, and started learning more about what I want out of life. This time has shown me how strong my relationships with my family and friends are, as well as their unwavering support even when I’m an ocean away. Even with its up and downs, I will always remember this time in my life shaping me for my future.

….I’ll also remember it as the longest period of time I’ve gone without seeing the sun and eating good tacos.