Closing time - 11pm?!

I've been here now for just over a week. For some reason it feels like I've been here much longer. I am quite comfortable navigating my way around, although I still get disoriented because of the fact that they drive on the left side of the road. Thank goodness the words "LOOK LEFT/RIGHT" are painted on the ground at almost every crosswalk! I've already had a few close calls, but all is well! Also, when walking down a sidewalk, up or down stairs, or anywhere really, people pass on the left. I am trying to get accustomed to that as well. I got a dirty look from an old man when I moved over to the right hand side to let him pass...well sheesh. I'm Canadian and I'm workin' on bein' British. Gimme a break! 

Last night I went out with two Canadian friends I've met. Diana and Roger. Roger is from Brampton and a music teacher. We went to a few pubs and had a few drinks. I can't believe this...but on a Friday night pubs close at 11pm. We were shocked!! We were walking around looking for somewhere to go after we were kicked out of a pub and came upon a microbrewery. The bouncer stopped us at the door and said "no, sorry, we're closed." Frustrated, I ask where we should go then, and over the loud music he screamed at us to go to the "Cattle Piss". I was like, WHAT!??? So we kept on walking...and then we found a place called the "Cactus Pit". I am pretty sure that's what he was saying, but between the loud music and thick accent...I heard something else altogether!!!

I am somewhat, no, very frustrated with my current internet situation. I have to walk up the street to Mrs. Wilson's and pray someone is home to let me in to use the internet. There is wireless at my place, but for some unknown reason I can't get online - it says I am connected, but I can't get on to the internet. I am starting to lose my mind. I will get it taken care of, however. If anyone reading this has an idea as to why I can't get online - please leave me a comment (KEN!!!!) 

I had my orientation this week - it was excellent. School starts next week! Since my orientation was downtown London, I went to the Museum of London and St. Paul's Cathedral while I was there. What I really love about London is that entry to most museums and galleries are FREE. You just walk right in and they give you a map. How spectacular is that?! Canada, take a hint! It's a wonderful way to educate people because it's accessible to all. 

The weather here is certainly unpredictable. A beautiful sunny, warm morning? Pack your brelly and warm coat anyway. You will need it! Raining? Don't cancel your plans because it wont last long! I'm learning to have all those things handy at the door whenever I go anywhere. The last time I ran up to Mrs. Wilson's with my laptop I had just carried it in my hands, well wouldn't you know that when I went to leave I had to wrap it in a plastic bag and shove it in my coat because it was POURING rain!  

Anyway - I hope all is well for everyone back home! Once I get my internet sorted, I will be posting more often! 

lots of love 

~amy~