Guttentag!

Dear Friends,

I can't believe how long it's been since I've last updated this blog. Lot's went on at the end of last term. There was a lot of work and a lot of packing and I spent a lovely time at home with my family for Christmas. I saw so many of my wonderful friends and indulged in all of the American food I've been missing so much. Now get ready for a long update!

And after Christmas the real fun began. I took an amazing trip to Germany and Vienna! The trip started in Garmisch, the small town in Bavaria where my mother was born. Garmisch sits right in the Alps and is such a picturesque town, complete with ski lifts, schnitzel houses and domed churches. I was able to see so many special things there. I explored the town, went to ettal, a beautiful monestary where my mom was baptized (also featured in The Sound of Music I'm proud to say), Oberamergau where the famous passion play takes place, and the army base where the Patterson Family lived. Bavaria is a magical place. The people there are so kind and the history is so fascinating. I was lucky enough to stay with my good friend from Wellesley and her family who are civilians in the army and have lived in Garmisch for years. They were the most generous tour guides and trip would not have been the same without their kindness.

We also spent one day in Munich which is such a beautiful city. Lauren was the tour guide for the day. We say so many churches, stopped at the hofbrauhaus for a weissbier (of which I am very very fond), watched the glockenspiel, and did I little shopping. Munich is small but beautiful.

From Munich my friend and I took the train to Vienna. Speaking of magic, this city is full of it. The palaces, museums, opera, and food are just incredible, I don't even know where to start. The first day my friends and I took a tour of the city. The Hapsburg history of Austria is so interesting and isn't something that I've studied before so it was wonderful to learn so many new things. That night, I was so so so lucky to attend the famous Vienna Staatsoper. They provide this very smart very stealth system where the night of a performance, a line forms for standing room tickets. It's all very civilized (of course). The line moves and everyone buys a 3-4 euro ticket on any one of the three levels of the opera. From there, you are led to your section where you must mark your place with a scarf. Then you can leave for dinner and come back for the show.

Standing room isn't really the right word for this experience since there were bars in front and behind us that we could lean on. But I would have stood for this. We saw Puccini's Tosca and it was magnificent. So dramatic and the music was beautiful. It was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life. AND the next day we went back for Lucia di Lammermore which is an equally dramatic opera, though Tosca was by far my favorite. The next day was spent seeing amazing art collections with paintings by Peter Paul Ruebens, Breugel, Rembrant, Klimpt, and Schiele. Of course more beer was involved and lots of delicious German food, not for the faint of meat.

This trip was so amazing. I feel so lucky to have seen the place where my family lived, and two beautiful cities and new cultures. The people from this region of the world are amazing, so kind and accommodating. I would go back in heartbeat.

And now I'm back at Oxford, settling in, starting work, and drinking lots of tea. I'm taking European Christian Thought and Modern British Politics this term and can't wait to start both of them. Expect more updates soon!

XX Sarah

*Pictures above are of a church in Munich, my friend Matt and me at the Opera in Vienna, Ettal Monestary, Cuckoo Clocks made in Oberamergau, the mountains from my window in Garmisch, and St. Karl's Church in Vienna

Tea Time

I've realized that in my previous posts I've really only been talking about verbs-what I've done each week. I think its time that I brought some nouns to the table. This week, let's talk about tea.

I have my complaints about British culture, believe me. People here walk far too slowly, and almost every item of food is in sausage or pie form. However, the Brits got it right with tea. Earl Grey, English Breakfast, crumpets, cucumber sandwiches, scones, clotted cream, jam. The list goes on. High Tea is just about the best concept that I have ever encountered. Whoever had the idea that any kind of work or stress that in your life should stop at around 3:30 everyday so that you can proceed to stuff your face with hot beverages and baked goods, is a genious, perhaps a god. The only other cultural tradition that I've encountered that could rival high tea is the Spanish siesta. So I say, why not combine them? A mid-afternoon feast, followed by a nice long nap, what a beautiful idea.

Tea has been a tradition in my family since before I was even a part of my family. My Dad's side is British, very British. I grew up with Aunties who told me exactly how long I must steep my teabag before disposing of it and exactly what fraction of milk to tea was needed to make the perfect 'cuppa'. On a trip with my late Aunt Glady to New Orleans, I was shocked when she sent back nearly every cup of tea that she ordered from any restaurant or cafe. "Why not just stop ordering the tea?" I wondered. I think that Glady got intense satisfaction from schooling those southern establishments in the English art of tea-making. And rightly so. Tea is a serious business here, not to be defiled with crazy flavors or poor presentation.

If you're getting the idea that the English are snobby about their tea, then you would be correct. But don't take offense. Tea, like an American hamburger, almost defines the culture here. There is a connection to tea that goes far beyond its flavor. (Speaking of which, I've yet to find a great cheeseburger. Add that to my list of complaints). I've learned that tea brings people together. If I'm in the kitchen in my dorm or at a cafe on the High, I'm almost guaranteed to be surrounded by people of every shape, size, age, and ethnicity. In my memories of Thanksgivings and Easters at home, tea was always a part of the celebration, an appropriate partner to pie and relaxation. Afternoon tea is a time to relax, to chat with friends, to meet new people, and to appreciate the little things in life. And when those little things include freshly baked scones, what's not to love?

And now that I am in what is arguably the global center of Tea, I feel the love that my Aunties had for 'the nectar of the Gods'. Tea is quite simply, wonderful, and I indulge its delights everyday. As a matter of fact, it is now 3:37, and I'm late for my usual cuppa!

With love and lots of tea,

Sarah

Happy Birthday to me!

What a BRILLIANT birthday week!

This previous week was one of the most stressful that I've had, two very difficult papers were due. But I finished everything just in time to celebrate my 21st birthday!

Tuesday was my first trip to the Oxford Student Union. There was a debate taking place in honor of the US elections, the debaters were all Americans and discussed some of the issues that were at the forefront of the elections and campaigns. First of all, the Union is beautiful, quintessential Oxford. It was strange to be in a room in England packed with Americans, but it was nice to feel a little bit closer to home, even for just a few hours. And I saw a fellow Hill alum there! So all in all, an interesting night.

Thursday, a friend and I took the bus into London where we stayed with another friend of mine from Wellesley who is studying at LSE for the year. Friday was spent at the British Museum, what an incredible place! I had no idea how extensive their collections are. We got to see the Rosetta stone, the pediments from the Parthenon, and a special exhibit on the Egyptian book of the dead. So amazing! Thursday night, we went to see the English National Opera perform La Boheme. It was a beautiful production, lots of death and sadness BUT enjoyable just the same.

And Saturday was the big birthday celebration. We wandered around Chelsea in the morning, exploring farmers markets and rare book fairs and gorging ourselves on food (typical weekend activity). Next was a much needed and anticipated trip to Harrods! Let me tell you people, this is a shoppers dream, and I am a seasoned player myself. I picked up a lovely pair of birthday shoes (!) and then we made our way to the Victoria and Albert Museum. That night five of us went out to Cocoon, a very cool sushi restaurant near Picadilly Circus. The food, and of course the drinks, were delectible, such a nice treat. From there, we went to an oh-so-hip London club called The Ministry of Sound. It was so much fun and a great way to start my 21st birthday!

Sunday was spent in Westminster then on the bus back to Oxford where I met all of my fellow Americans at a great Indian restaurant in town, then out for more drinks (the defining activity of the weekend). It was such a lovely way to spend my birthday, although I'm sad that I didn't get to experience the American version. But only three weeks until I'm back in the US, I can't believe it! Meanwhile, I'm having an amazing time in London, and can't wait to explore the rest of Europe soon. Details on my trip planning will come in my next post.

Sarah XX (the standard British sign off!)

PS. Check facebook for more pictures!

Books and Belles

So sorry for the lateness of this post! So many things have been happening in the past two weeks, I have so much to share.

First, I auditioned for and was accepted to the Oxford Belles, a university wide all female a cappella group. Its so amazing to be singing again and this group of women is wonderful. I feel like I'm finally turning into a brit! (Yesterday I said cheers to someone who opened the door for me...a big step). We have rehearsals three nights a week and the structure is very similar to The Blue Notes at Wellesley, though of course my Wellesley women are still the closest to my heart. The Belles sing a wide range of music, be sure to check them (us) out on YouTube. And last night I got my first solo! Stand by me. I'm so excited to start performing.

Another musical experience, last Saturday I was able to sing with the famous choral composer John Rutter! My days of sweat and toil in BCCC (The Berks Classical Children's Chorus) groomed me for this very moment and it was truly a thrill. Dr. Rutter led a master class at Magdalen College. He taught a group of about 200 a few songs, including his famous requiem. Such an incredible experience and one that I won't soon forget.

My tutorials are still going strong. I've had the first actual meeting of my secondary tutorial (only meets every two weeks), Christian Ethics. This week we're discussing the issue of religious violence and how it fits into the arena of Christian ethics. And for the Lewis tutorial, I'm reading ALL seven Narnia books, plus 3 secondary sources. A challenge, but a fun challenge. I think I'm finally getting into the swing of things here, working on time management, and working in my weekly pub time, only the essentials.

Other than singing and studying, there have been lots of other activities going on here. This past weekend was the Champagne and Chocolates party at Mansfield. An excuse to put on party dresses and indulge in Champagne and dark chocolate, needless to say I was a big fan. I've been slowly exploring Oxford over the past few weeks as well, trying to visit all of the colleges, libraries, and churches. Each college is unique and its been a pleasure trying to visit all of them. I also had a wonderful dinner with a Wellesley alum last weekend at her home in Oxford. She is a doctor in New York who does research here in Oxford for a few months of every year and she was lovely. It was great to catch up with the current Wellesley students who are also in Oxford and to be in touch with another fabulous Wellesley woman. Our alums are truly incredible.

Lots of exciting things happening this coming week, including Halloween! It will be interesting compare and contrast traditions here and in the US, I'll keep you all posted. I've also just booked a plane ticket to visit Munich, Germany and Vienna, Austria in January! More to come on the trip details in my next post And of course, the following week will end with my birthday extravaganza in London, mark your calendars and hop on a plane! I miss you all and will be in touch soon!

XX (another british-ism)
Sarah

Freshers Week is OVER!

Dear all,

Today is Sunday and officially the start of 1st week at Oxford. The week we've just finished is called "noughth" week (very difficult to pronounce) or more endearingly known as freshers week. The week has been filled with pub crawls and library inductions and I can say without a doubt that I am completely exhausted and excited to start this term at Oxford.

I've met with both of my tutors and received my assignments for this first week. I've been sufficiently kicked in the butt by the amount of reading I have to do and am trying to make a substantial dent in it. I'll be comparing and contrasting C.S Lewis' "The Pilgrim's Regress" and "Surprised by Joy" for my first paper. I've just finished SBJ and am very intrigued by Lewis' writing. The sections of his book on Oxford are some of his most beautiful and they enforce this sense of surreality that I'm experiencing right now. Studying C.S Lewis in Oxford, what could be better? The second paper is for my Christian Ethics tutorial. The paper topic is, "Is the Bible the ultimate norm for determining whether an action is ethically Christian?" An intriguing question to say the least. I look forward to answering it soon.

It has been incredibly scary to hear the academic expectations of Oxford verbalized. The amount of independent work here is nothing like the University system in the US and it requires an extensive amount of self-motivation (something which I often lack at Wellesley...) I'm getting used to it though, forcing myself to wake up early and go to the Bodelian Library or the Theology faculty Library (my two favorites so far, although there are over 200 Libraries here to explore!). Anyway, we'll see how these first two papers develop and go from there.

Mansfield, the college where I am studying is one of the most unique in Oxford. It is a relatively new and small school, (only 150 years old, an infant in Oxford standards) and it was established as a place of training for nonconformist pastors. Thus, the layout of the campus is very open, no walls or gates like other schools in the University. The people here are friendly and welcoming, always ready to have a good time or talk about Kant or Miro, a really fascinating dynamic.

Speaking of having a good time, there is no shortage of fun in this city. I've never seen people drink like the people here. Going to a pub is like brushing your teeth, you do it religiously everyday. My budget and stomach are still getting used to this activity, but I can say that I'm trying to fully embrace it :) I've audtitioned for two acapella groups this week and will be hearing from them soon. I've also decided to learn how to play golf! Watch out Dad, I'll be tearing up the course in no time (I may have to get over my lack of hand eye coordination first...) There are also lots of fun formal dinners where everyone wears their academic robes and eats delicious food and drinks delicious wine, a noble tradition. There's so much to do here, I'm trying to fit as much in as possible.

SO, things are going well here. I'm trying to dive headfirst into the Oxford culture, studying, meeting new people, and exploring the city. This is a truly amazing place and I feel so lucky to be here, I still can't believe it. I miss you all so much and can't wait to talk to you again soon. Check out some pictures of Mansfield and the city above (Mansfield is on the right).

-S

Finally across the pond!

This delayed update is due to the craziness/lack of internet that has made up the last week. But I'm happy to say that I'm finally settled in at Mansfield, complete with internet (and a blowdryer!).

Dad and I arrived at Heathrow on Monday morning (Sunday night US time). After getting my visa stamped and the bags collected, we headed to our hotel in the South Kensington area of London. That day consisted of a lot of sleep. When we managed to wake ourselves up we made it out to the London Eye (a giant ferris wheel in Westminster). A touristy thing to do, I know, but it was an amazing view and a great way to be introduced to this amazing city!

Many other tourist activities ensued while we were in London. We took a tour of Buckingham palace, went to Westminster Abby, ate fish and chips, visited Windsor, and explored the Tower of London. Everything was incredible to see, the amount of history contained in these buildings and witnessed by them over the years is awe inspiring to say the least.

After London, we headed North West through the Cotswolds and to Stratford. The hotel we stayed in was called Ettington Park (google it now), an old manor house that's been converted to a hotel. The grounds and the building itself were fascinating, I felt like I was in a Jane Austen novel for a few days.

And finally, we arrived in Oxford on Friday morning. After many trips to the local tesco (a target type of store) I can say that my room looks less like a prison cell and more like a college dorm room. (not much of a difference between the two, is there?) My dad left today, Monday. It was hard to say goodbye but I'm so excited to get to know more about this amazing city. Every street, every building, every person here is interesting and filled with knowledge and history. I've loved exploring the different colleges, especially Christ Church (where Harry Potter was filmed). The bookstores, pubs, and markets are all amazing. Things are starting to feel less foreign to me and more like home. The people are friendly and so willing to help in any way possible and the other American students here have been a good resource.

There is so much more to tell, but I'll save it for another post. I'm going through the joys of freshman orientation right now so I'm sure there's a treasure hunt or a name game coming my way in a few minutes. More to come on Mansfield itself and my activities this week. Check out the pictures above. First is dad and I at Windsor castle, next is Westminster Abbey and last is me and a very dashing palace guard. Love and miss you all!

S

The time has come...

Hello All!

I'd like to welcome you to my official blog, title pun included (obviously). Read my posts to stay updated on my travels and adventures in Europe this year!

I'll be leaving for Oxford in a few short days and I cannot wait. Everyone else has started school, gone to their study abroad programs and I am ready to be school-bound as well. I'll be flying to London on Sunday with my dad and staying in the city for a few days. Ever the British aficionado, I'm sure my dad will show me all there is to see in the city, and more. I'm most excited for the show that we'll be seeing, Les Miserables (my theater geek roots are showing). Its the 25th anniversary of the show and there will be a special performance going on for two weeks and somehow, we got tickets!

After London, we'll head to Stratford Upon Avon for a few days. More theater viewing and general tourist activities will ensue. And after Stratford, its on to Oxford. I'll be living in a single room in a dorm off the campus of Mansfield College. The dorm, Ablethorp, is less than a mile from the center of town, and very close to Oxford's most famous library, the Bodleian. More to come on the dorm situation after I arrive.

And now for the educational portion of this post. At Oxford, classes are known as tutorials. These differ from the standard American college classes in a few big ways. Instead of a class of 10 or 15 or even 100, tutorials are set up to be one on one or at the most, three or four on one. This means that it will be just me and my tutor (professor) discussing a specific topic. I'll take two tutorials per trimester. Each tutor will assign me a reading list, I'll do the reading for the week, write a paper, and discuss the paper with my tutor.

This term, called Michaelmas term, I'll be taking a tutorial on C.S Lewis and one on christian thought. I'm really excited and nervous about the tutorials, I hope I'll be able to rise to the standards that are expected of Oxford students.

But enough worrying, this post is getting far too long. Thank you, whoever you are, for reading this blog and for caring enough about me to stay updated on my year abroad. I'm sure I'll have many stories to tell and pictures to post, so stay tuned! And now, let the packing begin!