God Save our Gracious Team...

...from getting their backsides kicked in when they return to England from South Africa! Because unfortunately, it's a little too late to save the England team from being bumped out of the World Cup. In a disastrous match against Germany that started out quite well but ended in disgrace has left the England team out of the coveted World Cup, again. It's been football fever over here for the last few weeks, but alas, the English could not keep it together so I am assuming things will die down, although it has been exciting!

Erin, thank you for the "gentle reminder" to blog. I know I have been slacking, but I always have an excuse. Whether or not it is a good one is debatable!

It has been an exciting couple of weeks here. Between the football and the highlight of seeing Rod Stewart, I got to go see Bon Jovi! That was a phenomenal concert! It took me back to the days of the "crossroads" album that my friend Kyle gave me when we were in grade 8. Those were the days I listened to Livin' on Prayer, Bed Medicine, and Wanted Dead or Alive, over and over again... I had no idea that one day I would be able to hear those songs played by the man himself in London! It was truly fantastic. Thanks to BW for taking me!!

Softball has been in full swing, although I suffered my first injury last week. I am used to getting knocked in the shins by a ball that I manage to miss, or a pulled leg muscle because I was too lazy to stretch, but last week during our league game I was the recipient of an injury that was not my fault. I hit the ball to short stop (ok, so maybe if I was a better hitter and it went OVER the short stop's head, I wouldn't have been in this situation, so it possibly could be my fault..) Anyway, hit the ball, ran to first base, and a rogue throw to the first baseman was missed and clocked me in the back of the noggin as I crossed the base! I went down like a ton of bricks and was seeing stars! Luckily, a bystander went to the nearest pub and got some ice for me which helped. I don't think I'm concussed, but it's unlikely I'd know the difference! Anyway, that's my latest softball story. My team is top of our division right now and we hope to keep it up!

It's an exciting week here! Canada Day is fast approaching and in London the ex-pats get together in Trafalgar Square for a massive celebration! There will be a ball hockey tournament, Native Canadian dancing, as well as traditional Canadian food (like poutine!). Canadian songstress Sarah Harmer will be performing and Canadian beer will be imported from back home so those away on our nation's birthday can celebrate Canadian style! Although most people have to work (myself included), hoards will be rushing out of their offices as soon as possible to join in the fun. I think I might just have "an appointment" at the end of the day! The softball team is also hosting a Canada Day/Independence Day Party on the weekend as well, which I am sure will be a blast! I am so glad that even though I am so far from home, I am still surrounded by my countrymen!

Well, I think that's it for now. Just about a month and I will be home.

I can't wait to see you all and I hope you are all doing well!

Lots of love,

Amy