Where have I been?

It's been quite a week, and next week will be just as busy. I tried to sleep in today, but my hallmates were LOUD at 7:30am, so there went that idea.

Saturday: explored Lincoln, which is home to the third largest cathedral in England (it was transformed into Westminster Abbey for Da Vinci Code). Very impressive. In general, it felt more ornate than York Minster, or so this novice cathedral fan thinks). Also walked through the old town area, and toured the Lincoln castle. This was the first castle I've been inside, and it wasn't what I thought it would be. Not much of medieval structures inside. But we climbed a scary set of stairs to the top of the observatory tower- very impressive views from the top!

Friday: Went to work at the YMCA on a new global citizenship project. More on that exciting project later. Finished the evening at the Rugby Dunsmore Barn Dance! This was my second barn dance since I've been in England. I danced every dance, and almost felt like I'm getting the hang of it! Next time I need to take video somehow... I bought some tickets to their raffle, and, to my shock, won two items!!! A bottle of Italian wine, and a scrapbook from the National Trust where I can write about my visits to National Trust sites across England.

Thursday: Religion and Conflict class, then the first (and only) class explaining our dissertation. After that I went out to the Phoenix (student pub) with some classmates. Was thrilled to learn that I'm not the only one with virtually no clue as to what I want my dissertation topic to be (though, by tomorrow we're supposed to submit our topic idea.. hahaha. I've got an idea, but no way near formulated enough).

Wednesday: Comparative Peace Processes class, then spoke at the Royary Club of Coventry Phoenix... which... drumroll please... was my 10th official club speech! That means my club banners from GH are gone, and my speech requirement is fulfilled! But I'm going for more :-) I think I've got at least five more speeches planned. Finished the night by purchasing Dad's birthday present online. Easier to buy from a US-based company and have it shipped to their house than for me to find something here, box it up, and pay horrendous shipping costs. Yeah, Dad, I'm cheap thrifty. :-)

What's next?
Well, right now I'm watching game 5 of the 1995 ALDS (found it on iTunes this morning- had to buy it). Once I get over the excitement of watching that, I may just work on my dissertation proposal. If not that, then I do need to work on essays. Tomorrow more work at the YMCA. Tuesday is candidate hustings for the student union elections ("ask the candidate" time). I have a friend running for union President, so I'll be there to support him. Voting is open for the election Wednesday-Friday. I've got three speeches to Rotary clubs this week (all in Rugby- I should just stay there this week!). The most exciting part of the week is the weekend. I have ABSOLUTELY NOTHING on Saturday or Sunday. Hooray! You can bet I'll be sleeping in and trying to get caught up yet again. Then it gets crazy again: going to London to see Phantom of the Opera, and Liverpool... all in one week (on top of classes!)

More photos from Lincoln are here.
More photos from last week's trip to York here.