Jul 19, 2006

Over the Pond, Day 3 -- still settling in

Today was a nice rhythm of study, food, and rest. It's taken a little while to get used to the solitude, not having to listen for Miranda or be continuously aware of her. I'm sure I'll be missing her more in the days to come.

One thing I'm trying to do regularly (other than sample the local brews at the Market Tavern) is to attend the Anglican Daily Office at Durham Catherdral. Check out these pics of the Cathedral; it's just amazing. The Office includes Morning Prayer, Midday Communion, and sung Evensong, which give an opportunity to re-center myself throughout the day. It's also a practice of the Northumbria Community, where I'll be staying over the weekend.

Ok, have a big discussion of my paper on Aquinas tomorrow, must return to writing. But before I go, the daily highlights:

1) the refreshingly cool weather of northern England (although London is supposed to top 100 soon)
2) a big, fattening batch of fish & chips, drenched with malt vinegar
3) a really good pot of tea this morning at breakfast, and orange marmalade for my toast
4) listening to some really funky, old-school 80's rock while eating dinner at the tavern -- selections included "Take on Me", "Too Shy" and the somewhat more obscure "We Don't Have to Take Our Clothes Off (To Have a Good Time)" -- I actually owned this on extend-play 45 record! At a British pub...?????
5) 2 naps today!

2 comments:

MeesheMama said...

I wanted to comment 2 days ago, but blogger wouldn't let me. Anyway, I want you to know that your descriptions are like a breath of fresh air to me. I feel free when I am reading about your trip. I know the feeling of walking into the night without the diaper bag strapped to you, and spending a full night without having to listen for your child. It's amazing. And I didn't get to do it until this past June. But by then, I already had another strapped to my front. So enjoy your time to the fullest, and look forward to the moment when Miranda sees you again, but don't stress. This break is good for her (and daddy) too.
Much love!
~michelle

Julie Danielle said...

It sounds like such a fun trip. I hope to be able to visit London before we move back to the states. Glad you found your batteries. I have seen the movie for Handmaid's Tale and have always meant to read the book too.