I'm here!!!

2nd Blog entry

Well I am finally here!!  I survived 2 flights and a 2 hour "adventure" on the tube, trying to find my way to my host family but I got there.  The family is very nice.  The mom Lynn is an awesome cook who loves to make everything spicy, which is perfect for me.  They are very laid back and willing to let me come and go as I please.  I have a nice big room all to myself, complete with a tv and my own bathroom.  This is much better than I could have hoped for.  I was afraid I would be rooming with 3 other people in a cramped run down shack, but instead I have plenty of privacy and a great view of the garden out my window.  The city is huge and still quite confusing.  I know my way around on the tube somewhat, but I have yet to be able to get anywhere without having to constantly refer to the pocket map.  I am doing my best not to be an easy target for theives.  I keep all valuables in the bottom of my backpack and always try to be aware of my surroundings.  We had a constable come and speak to the  class yesterday and he assured us that we most likely won't be assaulted but could be robbed if we don't take care or get too drunk and sloppy.  After orientation I wondered around the city for a few hours, just soaking it all in.  I have yet to see any of the huge tourist sites (big ben, etc.) but later on today we are taking a boat down the river Thames and I am sure there will be several photo  oppportunities.  I came to London to experience the history first hand, and I sure got my wish.  The building that houses the school was built in the 1720's.  It is such a trip to spend so much time in a place that was built before America was founded!!  The only drawback so far is money.  Everything here costs 2X as much as it did back home.   My advice for anyone coming to London:  double the amount of $$ you think you will need, and keep careful track of your finances.  There are lots of cheap travel opportunities available to students and I plan to use as many of them as I can afford.  Most of the museums and other attractions are free which is a big plus for a history nerd such as myself.  I gotta run now and grab a curry before the boat trip.  I will post again soon with pictures!!