Crazy Whirlwinds

Why is it, that when we want to speed through a week or a month it drags like a teenage boy's pants? But when we want a moment to last, it speeds by faster than a driver on the Autobahn? For example, I'm sitting here watching "River City," a Scottish soap opera, and thinking, "Dear God, is this over yet?" But this week is the last for Kim and Richard at Hamilton College, and we're nearly half-way through the week? So unfair.

It is so difficult to take it all in. I've been into Glasgow several times, Edinburgh, St. Andrew's, and I have plans to go to Stirling (think Braveheart), Glasgow again, and London. Oh, and don't forget the trip to Spain! :) But in spite of all I've done and all I've seen, there is so much left to see and do. It's sad to think that I might miss something, but such is life. We cannot do everything. Sad, but true.

Last weekend was the busiest yet. Friday, we left from the school to go to the dry ski slopes with a school trip. They go every Friday. The trip mainly consisted of sitting in the lodge while students skied, but it was lovely. :) After, Natalie and Emma took us into Glasgow's west end for dinner and an evening out with the girls. We ate at a place called The Loft. I walked in, and automatically realized that I was out of place. So chique! We all shared some food, laughs and conversation. We met up with another teacher at a place called Dram! for the true Scottish pub atmosphere.

The next day, Kelly and I got up and went to the train station, where we hopped on a train bound for Cambuslang, then switched to a train for Bellshil, then finally for Edinburgh. The best part? We did it all without missing a train or getting lost! YAY! We met up with Judith, one of our teachers, and she took us to a little cafe where I drank my first ever full cup of tea. :) We then took an open bus tour of Edinburgh. I love all of the old architecture and history in the city. Later we went up to Edinburgh castle, which was where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI, who became king at 1 year old. We were even able to see the room where he was born! Also saw the crown Mary was adorned with at her coronation. After the castle, it was, of course, time for... SHOPPING! :D It was a late night, not getting home until 11, but totally worth it!

Sunday morning began with me cramped in the front seat of a two-door sports car and Kelly in the back seat. Mark picked us and took us to St. Andrew's, the oldest university in Scotland. I knew that, but not how old... Next year is the university's 600th birthday! And let me just say, I hope I look even a fraction that good when I'm 600 years old! We looked around the grounds and at the old church, which was built in the 13th century. So much history! It was a gloriously beautiful day, perfect for walking around and having a good time. However, I think one of the best parts of the day was getting to know our teacher better and laugh at his music choices. :)


And now, it's a new week, albeit a sad one since after Friday, we'll have two less joyful people at school. But in the mean time, I will live each day joyfully and gratefully, accepting the fact that time is going to fly by these last two and a half weeks.