Well, even though they do not celebrate Thanksgiving over here, I really was able to celebrate in a neat way the entire weekend. Thursday night I attended the second awards banquet with 9 of my fellow male co-workers. It was a very fun evening, as the banquet took place at a Marriott Hotel in Leicester, about an hour and a half away. The food was delicious as I was served, fried goat cheese and a Chinese veggie dumpling to start, a beef medallion, veggies, and mashed potatoes for the main course, and a walnut chocolate cake for dessert. This was all followed by chocolate covered strawberries, cheeses, grapes and tea. The food was not the only enjoyable part to the evening. There was a dance and singing act from Russia, followed by a speaker who was a famous rugby player, and then the awards ceremony itself. The best part about all of this....WE WON!! Castlet won the award for World Wide Exporter 2009. Everyone was very excited, and to be a part of the winning company makes it an even better feeling. After a celebratory drink we headed home...finally getting there at 2AM!!
Sunday afternoon was a party at Margaret and Bryan's called An American Thanksgiving. They normally have a Christmas party but because I am here, they decided to do a Thanksgiving party in my honor. It really was an amazing party and day. There was a piano player, playing some American favorites, a wonderful buffet including pumpkin pie, and an endless amount of wine. Jaime and I had decorated the house on Saturday with American flags, red/white/blue streamers, pilgrims, leaves, pumpkins, and other things. It was really fun decorating, since I missed out on doing this at home. Everyone who came to the party loved the decorations. It was fun getting to explain to everyone what Thanksgiving was as well. So many people didn't know and it was nice getting to explain my family traditions and the history. One couple even brought me a little present for Thanksgiving, a tea cup with the Lincoln Cathedral on it. A very nice gesture from people I had never met before. Everyone was so generous and having everyone wish me Happy Thanksgiving, really made the day a special one. While I may not have been able to watch the Macy's parade, or play games with the family or eat a turkey feast, I was able to celebrate Thanksgiving in a special way that I very much enjoyed.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving!
I wanted to tell everyone Happy Thanksgiving, from abroad. Obviously it is not something celebrated here, so I will be missing all the usually festivities, but know that I am thinking of everyone and wishing y'all a happy one! Since I am not there, I decided to do a little list of things that I am thankful for. They are in no particular order.
1) My parents - I am so thankful that I have such an amazing set of parents. They are my world and have done so much for me. From the time I was born until now, they have always been there to help guide me down the right path, with instruction, with actions, with love. They have taken me on trips, and opened my eyes to other cultures of the world. They have instilled a faith in me that has helped me in life. They have continuously been there for me through the ups and the downs, no matter what I say or do. After 22 years, they have helped me become the person that I am, and have enabled me to do the things that I am capable of doing. Without them, I would not be the person I am, and I am so thankful for them. I love you mom and dad.
2) My family - I am thankful for this support system that has always been there. From my sister, to grandparents, to aunts and uncles, to cousins...these people have always been behind me no matter what I do. They are always "cheering" me on, to do all that I can do. They instill adventure in me and encourage me to be the outgoing person that I am and encourage me to "live life to the fullest." I can't say thanks enough for the wonderful family that I have. I love y'all.
3) The Fab Four & Branson - I am so thankful for this group of girls and the wonderful times that I have had with each of them. These girls have become part of my family. They are the people I can turn to when I feel I can't turn anywhere else. For some reason, they always have the right thing to say. Each and everyone one of them has helped me be the person I am today, whether it be by making me a more open person, making me a more stronger person, by teaching me to laugh through life. I am thankful for the many experiences we have shared together, the good times and the bad. All that we have been through has solidified the bond that we will forever have, and I can't say thanks enough for this. From the nights out, to the trips taken, memories have been made that I will always care with me. I am thankful for those memories, I am thankful for what I have learned through yall and I am thankful for each of you. Love you each very much!
4) My puppy dog, Abby - What would I do without this ever lasting bundle of joy? I am so thankful for my dog and for all she has brought to our family. She is that one person that is always happy to see you and always greets you with the wagging tail and licking of the tongue. She is the one person that you can talk to, and she will always listen. No matter how you treat her, she always treats you with so much love and respect. I love my Abby and am thankful for my little puppy dog.
5) My travel experiences - I can't be thankful enough for all the travel experiences I have had both those taking place now, and those in the past. I have been able to see the world and learn so much about different cultures and different people, while also learning about myself. I have also been able to meet so many people, who have become friends with and who have helped me. These experiences will be with me through life and I am so thankful for the opportunity to take part in them all.
6) My faith - I am so thankful for my strong faith that has grown over the years. Knowing that God is always there to guide me and to help me in the path to success is a great feeling. I am thankful for the many experiences I have had that have made my faith grow, and for the many people who have helped as well. My faith will always be there and I know I can always rely on it to get me through any situation.
Obviously I have a lot to be thankful for. I might not have written them all down but I am still thankful for all that life has to offer. I do want to take this chance to say thank you to all of you reading the blog, and for your continued support, while I am abroad. While it can be tough at times to be away from a place that I know so well, I know I have so many people behind me pushing me towards success. I miss each of you dearly, but enjoy the day, and be thankful for all you have to be thankful for.
1) My parents - I am so thankful that I have such an amazing set of parents. They are my world and have done so much for me. From the time I was born until now, they have always been there to help guide me down the right path, with instruction, with actions, with love. They have taken me on trips, and opened my eyes to other cultures of the world. They have instilled a faith in me that has helped me in life. They have continuously been there for me through the ups and the downs, no matter what I say or do. After 22 years, they have helped me become the person that I am, and have enabled me to do the things that I am capable of doing. Without them, I would not be the person I am, and I am so thankful for them. I love you mom and dad.
2) My family - I am thankful for this support system that has always been there. From my sister, to grandparents, to aunts and uncles, to cousins...these people have always been behind me no matter what I do. They are always "cheering" me on, to do all that I can do. They instill adventure in me and encourage me to be the outgoing person that I am and encourage me to "live life to the fullest." I can't say thanks enough for the wonderful family that I have. I love y'all.
3) The Fab Four & Branson - I am so thankful for this group of girls and the wonderful times that I have had with each of them. These girls have become part of my family. They are the people I can turn to when I feel I can't turn anywhere else. For some reason, they always have the right thing to say. Each and everyone one of them has helped me be the person I am today, whether it be by making me a more open person, making me a more stronger person, by teaching me to laugh through life. I am thankful for the many experiences we have shared together, the good times and the bad. All that we have been through has solidified the bond that we will forever have, and I can't say thanks enough for this. From the nights out, to the trips taken, memories have been made that I will always care with me. I am thankful for those memories, I am thankful for what I have learned through yall and I am thankful for each of you. Love you each very much!
4) My puppy dog, Abby - What would I do without this ever lasting bundle of joy? I am so thankful for my dog and for all she has brought to our family. She is that one person that is always happy to see you and always greets you with the wagging tail and licking of the tongue. She is the one person that you can talk to, and she will always listen. No matter how you treat her, she always treats you with so much love and respect. I love my Abby and am thankful for my little puppy dog.
5) My travel experiences - I can't be thankful enough for all the travel experiences I have had both those taking place now, and those in the past. I have been able to see the world and learn so much about different cultures and different people, while also learning about myself. I have also been able to meet so many people, who have become friends with and who have helped me. These experiences will be with me through life and I am so thankful for the opportunity to take part in them all.
6) My faith - I am so thankful for my strong faith that has grown over the years. Knowing that God is always there to guide me and to help me in the path to success is a great feeling. I am thankful for the many experiences I have had that have made my faith grow, and for the many people who have helped as well. My faith will always be there and I know I can always rely on it to get me through any situation.
Obviously I have a lot to be thankful for. I might not have written them all down but I am still thankful for all that life has to offer. I do want to take this chance to say thank you to all of you reading the blog, and for your continued support, while I am abroad. While it can be tough at times to be away from a place that I know so well, I know I have so many people behind me pushing me towards success. I miss each of you dearly, but enjoy the day, and be thankful for all you have to be thankful for.
Monday, November 23, 2009
A Musical Weekend and York
Well, I decided to head off to York on Friday, even though looking back I probably shouldn't have, as I am still sick with something. I am going to the doctor today so lets hope I get better SOON!!
Friday after I arrived in the city of York I headed to the Jorvik center which is an entire center based on the history of Vikings. York had the biggest population of Vikings outside of the Scandinavian countries which I found quite surprising. The entire center was built upon a site that was once occupied by these Vikings. There were artifacts to observe and then there was a ride that took you through what the Viking town of York would have looked like. Unfortunately I did not get to see the part of the site that is still being excavated as part of the center was closed due to a yearlong renovation. I still found what I saw interesting. After a bite to eat in a pub, along with a cup of hot tea (yes, I ordered tea in a bar...because of my cold) I went on a ghost walk. The ghost tour is supposedly the first in the world. I found the tour very neat as it was a city tour, history tour and ghost tour all in one.
Saturday morning I headed straight to York Minster, the cathedral in York, and once again, another breathtaking place. It just amazes me as to how they could have built these places with the equipment and tools they had. After wandering around the interior of the place, I took the tower tour to the top. It was a struggle to climb (partially because I was out of breath and couldn't breathe from being sick) but everything was worth getting to the top. It is just a whole different view of the minster from there and there are some great views of the city, even on an overcast day like it was. After making my way back down, I then took the tour of the underground crypts and ruins. This took me through Roman ruins and what was left of the Roman basilica which was once on the same grounds, and then through another era of ruins in which the second cathedral was built on the grounds. It was very fascinating to see the different stages of the life of the church, and I absolutely loved seeing the Roman ruins, as there were painted murals, columns, and artifacts all from these Roman times. This concluded my time at the minster, for now. Next up was the York Dungeon. This was a 'scary' tour which combined short plays, with costumes and history. I learned about diseases which struck York, the harshest Vikings, criminals who were hung, and ghost which supposedly still haunt the city. It was a fun way to learn some history. Following this tour, I went to the York Castle Museum. This museum is built on the grounds of what was once the York castle. I enjoyed this place as it included decorated rooms from the many time periods, appliances through the ages (washers, dryers, fridges, freezers, irons, etc.), clothing wear (swimsuits and formal attire), and my favorite...toys and games through the ages. I found it really neat to see toys that I played with when I was little and how 'old' they are considered. I saw toys that my grandparents had at their houses as well. It was also incredible to see how things have progressed and changed. The museum also included a place called Kirkgate. This was a Victorian street that you could walk down, lined with businesses from the time period. Another favorite area of mine was the exhibition called 'The Sixties'. This took me through the fashion (Twiggy), music (The Beatles), and history (the Space Race), and politics (JFK assassination, Cuban Missile Crisis) of this particular era. Much of it was related to the United States which I found quite interesting. The last stage of the museum was walking through what was left of the castle...the prison. This was really creepy and eerie as it was dark and damp. I left the museum and walked past Clifford's Tower...one final part of the castle remains. This tower overlooked the entire city. After viewing the tower, I made my way to Barley Hall, an entire house from the Medieval time period. This was a very neat place to see and very hard to believe it was from the Middle Ages. The Great Hall, with the long tables for food, tiled floors and wooden beamed roof, is just what I thought the great halls of the middle ages should look like. I attempted a nap after this, but failed, so I got dressed and headed back to York Minster. It was here that I was going to enjoy a concert, Handel's Messiah. This was very enjoyable and extremely pretty to listen to with the acoustics of the minster. Just unbelievable.
Sunday morning, I enjoyed a tour of the National Railway Museum. They had so many train cars to look at, including the Royal Trains from kings and queens of the past. Also, they had the Flying Scotsman...or well, they had it in pieces. This world famous steam train is being refurbished and put back into action in the exact building that I was in. This concluded my time in York but not the weekend activities. Once arriving back in Lincoln, I attended an organ concert at Lincoln Cathedral. Once again, the organ mixed with the acoustics was incredible.
York was a wonderful place and very pretty city. The Christmas lights and trees which were up made it even more extravagant to see. However the Christmas atmosphere does mean more people, and I was not a fan of the hundreds of people surrounding me as I walked up and down the streets. Overall it was an enjoyable trip, although probably would have been even more enjoyable had I been feeling 100%. Now it is time to recover!!
Friday after I arrived in the city of York I headed to the Jorvik center which is an entire center based on the history of Vikings. York had the biggest population of Vikings outside of the Scandinavian countries which I found quite surprising. The entire center was built upon a site that was once occupied by these Vikings. There were artifacts to observe and then there was a ride that took you through what the Viking town of York would have looked like. Unfortunately I did not get to see the part of the site that is still being excavated as part of the center was closed due to a yearlong renovation. I still found what I saw interesting. After a bite to eat in a pub, along with a cup of hot tea (yes, I ordered tea in a bar...because of my cold) I went on a ghost walk. The ghost tour is supposedly the first in the world. I found the tour very neat as it was a city tour, history tour and ghost tour all in one.
Saturday morning I headed straight to York Minster, the cathedral in York, and once again, another breathtaking place. It just amazes me as to how they could have built these places with the equipment and tools they had. After wandering around the interior of the place, I took the tower tour to the top. It was a struggle to climb (partially because I was out of breath and couldn't breathe from being sick) but everything was worth getting to the top. It is just a whole different view of the minster from there and there are some great views of the city, even on an overcast day like it was. After making my way back down, I then took the tour of the underground crypts and ruins. This took me through Roman ruins and what was left of the Roman basilica which was once on the same grounds, and then through another era of ruins in which the second cathedral was built on the grounds. It was very fascinating to see the different stages of the life of the church, and I absolutely loved seeing the Roman ruins, as there were painted murals, columns, and artifacts all from these Roman times. This concluded my time at the minster, for now. Next up was the York Dungeon. This was a 'scary' tour which combined short plays, with costumes and history. I learned about diseases which struck York, the harshest Vikings, criminals who were hung, and ghost which supposedly still haunt the city. It was a fun way to learn some history. Following this tour, I went to the York Castle Museum. This museum is built on the grounds of what was once the York castle. I enjoyed this place as it included decorated rooms from the many time periods, appliances through the ages (washers, dryers, fridges, freezers, irons, etc.), clothing wear (swimsuits and formal attire), and my favorite...toys and games through the ages. I found it really neat to see toys that I played with when I was little and how 'old' they are considered. I saw toys that my grandparents had at their houses as well. It was also incredible to see how things have progressed and changed. The museum also included a place called Kirkgate. This was a Victorian street that you could walk down, lined with businesses from the time period. Another favorite area of mine was the exhibition called 'The Sixties'. This took me through the fashion (Twiggy), music (The Beatles), and history (the Space Race), and politics (JFK assassination, Cuban Missile Crisis) of this particular era. Much of it was related to the United States which I found quite interesting. The last stage of the museum was walking through what was left of the castle...the prison. This was really creepy and eerie as it was dark and damp. I left the museum and walked past Clifford's Tower...one final part of the castle remains. This tower overlooked the entire city. After viewing the tower, I made my way to Barley Hall, an entire house from the Medieval time period. This was a very neat place to see and very hard to believe it was from the Middle Ages. The Great Hall, with the long tables for food, tiled floors and wooden beamed roof, is just what I thought the great halls of the middle ages should look like. I attempted a nap after this, but failed, so I got dressed and headed back to York Minster. It was here that I was going to enjoy a concert, Handel's Messiah. This was very enjoyable and extremely pretty to listen to with the acoustics of the minster. Just unbelievable.
Sunday morning, I enjoyed a tour of the National Railway Museum. They had so many train cars to look at, including the Royal Trains from kings and queens of the past. Also, they had the Flying Scotsman...or well, they had it in pieces. This world famous steam train is being refurbished and put back into action in the exact building that I was in. This concluded my time in York but not the weekend activities. Once arriving back in Lincoln, I attended an organ concert at Lincoln Cathedral. Once again, the organ mixed with the acoustics was incredible.
York was a wonderful place and very pretty city. The Christmas lights and trees which were up made it even more extravagant to see. However the Christmas atmosphere does mean more people, and I was not a fan of the hundreds of people surrounding me as I walked up and down the streets. Overall it was an enjoyable trip, although probably would have been even more enjoyable had I been feeling 100%. Now it is time to recover!!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Favorite Trip So Far...
After spending the weekend in Edinburgh and Loch Ness, Scotland, I definitely have a new favorite trip so far. I took the train Friday after work and after about a 4 hour journey, met my friend at the train station, this is one of the Canadians that I met on the Wales trip. We just hung out at her house that evening.
The fun began Saturday morning with my first stop being the Edinburgh Castle. This castle was just phenomenal and was quite an interesting self guided tour. The view from this place was neat as it overlooks all of Edinburgh. The fact that it had rained a little that morning, was great, as I enjoyed the spectacular views of the city all with a rainbow overhead. I wandered through castle rooms, read interesting facts, and even got to see the royal crown and scepter. I also got to enjoy watching the changing of the guard. But the highlight was definitely an unexpected treat...as I was making my way around the castle grounds I noticed that barricades were being set up, military troops were in their dress uniforms, and special visitors were being seated around some of the castle cannons. So I decided to stick around to see what was happening. Well, I found out that Prince Charles was visiting Edinburgh for the weekend and a 21 gun salute was going to take place. It was incredible to listen to the Scottish bagpipes and here the VERY LOUD cannons being blown. Following my castle adventures, I made my way down the Royal Mile, the famous street in Edinburgh. I visited St. Giles Cathedral which is said to be the mother of Presbyterian churches. Not as extravagant as the other cathedrals I have seen while being over here, but still gorgeous. I then enjoyed watching a 3-D movie on the Loch Ness monster. Real or Fake?? I think something exists deep down in the waters, but I don't think its a monster. After the short movie, I joined a guided tour of the underground vaults and medieval streets. This was very fascinating, as I learned what life was like to live and work below ground, while walking through the creepy, damp rooms. I continued my way down the Royal Mile, before stopping in John Knox's house. While I did not find the inside to be to interesting, for me to say that I got to visit John Knox, one of the leaders of the Presbyterian religion, is awesome. My next stop, was another Harry Potter one. I went to the Elephant House coffee shop, where JK Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book, as she is from Edinburgh. After some shopping, I met up with my friend and then enjoyed a nice evening out in Edinburgh with some of her other friends.
Sunday morning I met up with the tour bus which I would be taking to Loch Ness. We drove through the gorgeous countryside of Scotland while making our way to our destination. At our first stop, I got to feed a Highland Cow, the long haired, longhorn looking, Scotland animal. He was just adorable...yes I got pictures. We stopped at a few other picturesque sights overlooking mountains, green fields, and yes...more rainbows...before finally reaching Urquhart Castle on the banks of the Loch Ness. I watched a quick 8 minute video on the history of the castle, before exploring the ruins of it. It was absolutely gorgeous to look out over Loch Ness from the top of the castle tower. Once my exploration was finished, I hopped on board a mini-cruise, and enjoyed sailing across the Loch. Unfortunately, I didn't see Nessie...and that is not because I wasn't looking. After the cruise docked, I had a short time in the Loch Ness shop before boarding the bus for the journey home.
Monday morning, as I took my first holiday from work, I visited Holyrood Palace, the residence of the queen when she is in town from London and the old residence to past kings and queens of Scotland. This place was quite interesting as well I was able to see the great hall, the dining room with place settings, bedrooms, the throne room and library's, most of which are still used for occasions today. I also got to see the remains of the Abbey, which used to be part of the palace. After my audio guided tour here, I made my way back up the Royal Mile, to the Scottish Whisky Experience. Scotland is famous for their whisky, and though I am not a whisky fan myself, I thought that I should learn more about another aspect of the country. And, I did learn quite a bit. After a short 'ride' to learn how whisky is made, I then learned about the different regions of Scotland and the different types of whisky. At this point, I got to smell the different types of whisky flavorings, such as vanilla, flowery, oak and spice. Part of the tour was also seeing the largest whisky collection in the world, almost 4000 bottles, ranging in a variety of shapes and sizes. Then came the taste test...which I spit out...still not a whisky fan. Ha. But I did get to keep a souvenir whisky glass from the experience. Following this tour, I made my way to the Scott's Memorial, a memorial to an important man in Edinburgh's history, where I climbed 287 steps to the top. Even in the drizzle, the views from the memorial were incredible, as I could see all of Edinburgh. I got some great pictures. After a quick stroll through more of town, and a quick bite to eat, I headed to the train station for my journey back.
All in all, it was an amazing trip, with amazing weather. I woke up this morning with a cold. I am off to fight that, so that I can enjoy my next trip...Friday to York.
The fun began Saturday morning with my first stop being the Edinburgh Castle. This castle was just phenomenal and was quite an interesting self guided tour. The view from this place was neat as it overlooks all of Edinburgh. The fact that it had rained a little that morning, was great, as I enjoyed the spectacular views of the city all with a rainbow overhead. I wandered through castle rooms, read interesting facts, and even got to see the royal crown and scepter. I also got to enjoy watching the changing of the guard. But the highlight was definitely an unexpected treat...as I was making my way around the castle grounds I noticed that barricades were being set up, military troops were in their dress uniforms, and special visitors were being seated around some of the castle cannons. So I decided to stick around to see what was happening. Well, I found out that Prince Charles was visiting Edinburgh for the weekend and a 21 gun salute was going to take place. It was incredible to listen to the Scottish bagpipes and here the VERY LOUD cannons being blown. Following my castle adventures, I made my way down the Royal Mile, the famous street in Edinburgh. I visited St. Giles Cathedral which is said to be the mother of Presbyterian churches. Not as extravagant as the other cathedrals I have seen while being over here, but still gorgeous. I then enjoyed watching a 3-D movie on the Loch Ness monster. Real or Fake?? I think something exists deep down in the waters, but I don't think its a monster. After the short movie, I joined a guided tour of the underground vaults and medieval streets. This was very fascinating, as I learned what life was like to live and work below ground, while walking through the creepy, damp rooms. I continued my way down the Royal Mile, before stopping in John Knox's house. While I did not find the inside to be to interesting, for me to say that I got to visit John Knox, one of the leaders of the Presbyterian religion, is awesome. My next stop, was another Harry Potter one. I went to the Elephant House coffee shop, where JK Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book, as she is from Edinburgh. After some shopping, I met up with my friend and then enjoyed a nice evening out in Edinburgh with some of her other friends.
Sunday morning I met up with the tour bus which I would be taking to Loch Ness. We drove through the gorgeous countryside of Scotland while making our way to our destination. At our first stop, I got to feed a Highland Cow, the long haired, longhorn looking, Scotland animal. He was just adorable...yes I got pictures. We stopped at a few other picturesque sights overlooking mountains, green fields, and yes...more rainbows...before finally reaching Urquhart Castle on the banks of the Loch Ness. I watched a quick 8 minute video on the history of the castle, before exploring the ruins of it. It was absolutely gorgeous to look out over Loch Ness from the top of the castle tower. Once my exploration was finished, I hopped on board a mini-cruise, and enjoyed sailing across the Loch. Unfortunately, I didn't see Nessie...and that is not because I wasn't looking. After the cruise docked, I had a short time in the Loch Ness shop before boarding the bus for the journey home.
Monday morning, as I took my first holiday from work, I visited Holyrood Palace, the residence of the queen when she is in town from London and the old residence to past kings and queens of Scotland. This place was quite interesting as well I was able to see the great hall, the dining room with place settings, bedrooms, the throne room and library's, most of which are still used for occasions today. I also got to see the remains of the Abbey, which used to be part of the palace. After my audio guided tour here, I made my way back up the Royal Mile, to the Scottish Whisky Experience. Scotland is famous for their whisky, and though I am not a whisky fan myself, I thought that I should learn more about another aspect of the country. And, I did learn quite a bit. After a short 'ride' to learn how whisky is made, I then learned about the different regions of Scotland and the different types of whisky. At this point, I got to smell the different types of whisky flavorings, such as vanilla, flowery, oak and spice. Part of the tour was also seeing the largest whisky collection in the world, almost 4000 bottles, ranging in a variety of shapes and sizes. Then came the taste test...which I spit out...still not a whisky fan. Ha. But I did get to keep a souvenir whisky glass from the experience. Following this tour, I made my way to the Scott's Memorial, a memorial to an important man in Edinburgh's history, where I climbed 287 steps to the top. Even in the drizzle, the views from the memorial were incredible, as I could see all of Edinburgh. I got some great pictures. After a quick stroll through more of town, and a quick bite to eat, I headed to the train station for my journey back.
All in all, it was an amazing trip, with amazing weather. I woke up this morning with a cold. I am off to fight that, so that I can enjoy my next trip...Friday to York.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Awards Banquet
Well last night I attended the Lincolnshire Business Awards banquet with some of my co-workers. It was so nice to get dressed up, and was so different seeing my male co-workers wearing tux's, as I typically see them in casual work attire. The evening began with a champagne reception, followed by a 3 course dinner consisting of a pork main dish and a chocolate mousse type thing for dessert. The food was wonderful! It was really nice to just talk with everyone outside of work, even though I seemed to be the one to get made fun of most of the night...because of my American words and Texas accent. Ha ha. After dinner were the 7 different awards presentations. This was interesting to watch, because short video clips were shown of the different finalists for each award, and to see that there were so many successful businesses, even in these tough economic times, shows that there is hope. We were one of four finalist for the biggest award, the Business of the Year. Unfortunately we did not win, was not expected by our managers at the table, but I still think that to be one of four finalists is pretty impressive. Maybe we will win the next one.
I am off to Edinburgh after work today, for an extended weekend. One of the girls that I met on the Wales trip is working up there, so she is picking me up at the station and I am staying with her. Should be an exciting weekend. I will post about the trip when I return Monday night.
I am off to Edinburgh after work today, for an extended weekend. One of the girls that I met on the Wales trip is working up there, so she is picking me up at the station and I am staying with her. Should be an exciting weekend. I will post about the trip when I return Monday night.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Catching up...
Well, I decided it was about time catch everyone up as to what I have been up to. It was really just a typical week at work. Nothing exciting happened. There are still the days when I have lots to do but then vice versa. Friday after work, I went to a Thai lunch with Margaret and two of her friends. It was delicious! And then, Friday night I went out with a bunch of people from work (it had been three of their birthdays this past week). It really was an absolute blast, getting to know my co-workers outside of the work environment and getting to enjoy the night life of Lincoln.
The English weather has officially hit us. I have been quite lucky since I got here with avoiding the rain, but now we typically have cloudy weather with some rain every day now. I was disappointed on Thursday night, as it was November the 5th, which for those of you who were like me...ask so??, well Nov. 5 is Guy Fawkes Day, one of the biggest celebrations in England. There are huge bonfires, firework shows, toffee apples, and other yummy food. But...it was raining, and although they somehow still had the shows, I didn't go because of the rain and because Margaret, Bryan and Jaime were all sick. Guy Fawkes is known for his attempt to blow of the House of Parliament and King James on Nov. 5, however hours before the planned attack, was arrested. At the local bonfires, usually an effigy of Fawkes is burned.
The rest of the weekend I have relaxed, read my book, and watched football...my american football! I have spent today doing household chores like cleaning, dishes and laundry. There is alot planned ahead though that I am looking forward too...Thursday night is the first of two black-tie awards banquets I am attending, I have trips booked to Edinburgh, Loch Ness and York, and a U.S. Thanksgiving Party to host/attend. More on all of this though when the events take place.
The English weather has officially hit us. I have been quite lucky since I got here with avoiding the rain, but now we typically have cloudy weather with some rain every day now. I was disappointed on Thursday night, as it was November the 5th, which for those of you who were like me...ask so??, well Nov. 5 is Guy Fawkes Day, one of the biggest celebrations in England. There are huge bonfires, firework shows, toffee apples, and other yummy food. But...it was raining, and although they somehow still had the shows, I didn't go because of the rain and because Margaret, Bryan and Jaime were all sick. Guy Fawkes is known for his attempt to blow of the House of Parliament and King James on Nov. 5, however hours before the planned attack, was arrested. At the local bonfires, usually an effigy of Fawkes is burned.
The rest of the weekend I have relaxed, read my book, and watched football...my american football! I have spent today doing household chores like cleaning, dishes and laundry. There is alot planned ahead though that I am looking forward too...Thursday night is the first of two black-tie awards banquets I am attending, I have trips booked to Edinburgh, Loch Ness and York, and a U.S. Thanksgiving Party to host/attend. More on all of this though when the events take place.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Amsterdam Adventures
Oh Amsterdam...a very interesting place.
I will just skip Friday night as it was a disasterous night with hostel situations, getting lost, and being told wrong information by the people I was meeting.
But Saturday did get better...alot better! I arose with my friends for an early morning canal tour. This was a narrated boat tour that went through many different canals. Seeing Amsterdam from this view, I felt was a must. The architecture of the many home lining the canals was pretty incredible...and although I haven't been to Venice...it reminded me of pictures I've seen of there. Following this tour, I did some souvenier shopping and wandered around the downtown area of Amsterdam. I grabbed a quick Dutch snack, a hot waffle topped with chocolate and nuts, and then made my way with my friends to the Riechsmuseum. I didn't think I was much of an art fan, but this ended up being a very neat place to visit. There were paintings, drawings and artifacts from many different artists, however the most known were those of Rembrandt. My favorite painting to see here was the Night Watch, one of Rembrandts most famous paintings. To see this was incredible, as the age, the large size, and the detail were just some of the fascinating features. It really was hard for me to believe that it was painted so long ago. I really do in the hour that I was at the musuem, I learned so much about art. By taking time to read what was posted next to pictures, I saw 'inside' the paintings and what the underlying meaning of them was. Outside the museum, we climbed on the I AMSTERDAM letters and got our pictures taken on this infamous photo site. After this experience, we headed to the Anne Frank House. This was an experience that was hard to take in. It was just hard to imagine that Anne Frank, herself, hid from the Nazis in the house we were standing in, and wrote her journal from the very room we walked through. The book case which hid the stairwell to the hiding spot was still there, however besides that most rooms were vacant, as it was Otto Frank's wish that no new furniture be in the museum. We walked through the downstairs rooms and offices which once consisted of the business that Otto Frank ran, then through the hidden door, and up the steep, very narrow stairs behind the bookcase which led to the annex at the back of the house. This annex could not be seen from the front streets, which is why the Nazis never saw it. At the top of the stairs, we went through the 'hiding spaces' where Anne and her family hid for so long. Walking through Anne's room was very touching, as pictures that she had used to decorate her room to make it more like home, were still glued on the wall, right where she put them. It was in this very room which she often wrote in the diary. Which after a few more rooms, we got to see. The actual, red, dairy which she recieved on her 13th birthday, which she wrote in day and night about the terrible happenings of World War II, was right in front of us. This was just so neat to see. After this tour, my friends and I headed to our new resting spot...the Marriott Hotel. After the experience we had had the night before and the condition of the hostel, 4 of us decided that it was worth the 5 extra Euros (yes, only €5 more than what the hostel was), to stay in the luxary of the hotel. After a while of relaxation, we made our way to the famous Red Light District. We decided that with 4 of us we would be safe to go at night, and honestly all felt perfectly safe. This really just was an interesting place to see. The girls in the windows, the people who were walking into these doors, knowing what was going on behind closed curtains, and the overall atmosphere of the place was just crazy. But our Red Light District experience did not stop with just wandering the streets...we decided that when in Amsterdam we need to dowhat people in Amsterdam do...so, yes, we went to a show, a live sex show. The place we went is actually known as the place which started the Red Light District (Margaret and Bryan had actually told me about it). I kept an open mind going in, not really knowing what to expect, and really was quite intrigued by what went on. Obviously it was just a performance, but I kept asking myself, what these girls and guys were thinking. It made for an interesting hour and a half, especially since we were seated in the front row, but I am glad I can say I took part in the Amsterdam experience. After the show, we made our way back to our amazing beds at the hotel.
Sunday morning I woke up and headed to the Van Gogh Musuem. After my experience at the museum on Saturday, I decided I definately wanted to see Van Gogh's paintings as well. And once again, I am glad I went because there were so many interesting paintings to see. There was also a collection of letters that Van Gogh had written to his brother, which allowed us to get an idea of what the famous painter was thinking about certain works of art. My favorite thing to see in this museum though was not a piece of artwork hanging on the wall...but it was a letter from Van Gogh to his brother with his first sketch of 'Starry Night' (the original is at a museum in NYC). It was incredible to see how a tiny sketch on a letter, became one of the most famous paintings in history. Following my time at this museum, I made my way to the Heineken Brewery where I took part in the Heineken Experience. This experience was very fascinating to me, and ton of fun. I learned the history of the beer (which began in Amsterdam, in the building which I was in), got a hands on lesson of the ingredients of the beer, went into the very factory where Heineken was first made and got to crush some barley and stir the ingredients in a boiler, then I got to see the stables and Heineken horses, this was followed by an interactive 4-D ride/movie, of the entire beer process, where I was the beer, then was the taste test where I sampled a glass of Heineken, and then I got the chance to bottle my own bottle of Heineken which I got to keep (it had a personalized label saying I bottled it on it). After all of this the tour ended at the bar where we got 2 pints of Heineken. I really was a very interactive and hands on tour that I enjoyed, and a great way to end my time in Amsterdam. Because after this, I headed to the train station, to catch the train to the airport.
All in all, Amsterdam was a good experience. I can say I went, although honestly it would probably not be at the top of my list of places to go back to. There was to much smoke, drugs and people acting stupid, for me to be around 24/7, and although it is legal there, I am still not a big fan.
I will just skip Friday night as it was a disasterous night with hostel situations, getting lost, and being told wrong information by the people I was meeting.
But Saturday did get better...alot better! I arose with my friends for an early morning canal tour. This was a narrated boat tour that went through many different canals. Seeing Amsterdam from this view, I felt was a must. The architecture of the many home lining the canals was pretty incredible...and although I haven't been to Venice...it reminded me of pictures I've seen of there. Following this tour, I did some souvenier shopping and wandered around the downtown area of Amsterdam. I grabbed a quick Dutch snack, a hot waffle topped with chocolate and nuts, and then made my way with my friends to the Riechsmuseum. I didn't think I was much of an art fan, but this ended up being a very neat place to visit. There were paintings, drawings and artifacts from many different artists, however the most known were those of Rembrandt. My favorite painting to see here was the Night Watch, one of Rembrandts most famous paintings. To see this was incredible, as the age, the large size, and the detail were just some of the fascinating features. It really was hard for me to believe that it was painted so long ago. I really do in the hour that I was at the musuem, I learned so much about art. By taking time to read what was posted next to pictures, I saw 'inside' the paintings and what the underlying meaning of them was. Outside the museum, we climbed on the I AMSTERDAM letters and got our pictures taken on this infamous photo site. After this experience, we headed to the Anne Frank House. This was an experience that was hard to take in. It was just hard to imagine that Anne Frank, herself, hid from the Nazis in the house we were standing in, and wrote her journal from the very room we walked through. The book case which hid the stairwell to the hiding spot was still there, however besides that most rooms were vacant, as it was Otto Frank's wish that no new furniture be in the museum. We walked through the downstairs rooms and offices which once consisted of the business that Otto Frank ran, then through the hidden door, and up the steep, very narrow stairs behind the bookcase which led to the annex at the back of the house. This annex could not be seen from the front streets, which is why the Nazis never saw it. At the top of the stairs, we went through the 'hiding spaces' where Anne and her family hid for so long. Walking through Anne's room was very touching, as pictures that she had used to decorate her room to make it more like home, were still glued on the wall, right where she put them. It was in this very room which she often wrote in the diary. Which after a few more rooms, we got to see. The actual, red, dairy which she recieved on her 13th birthday, which she wrote in day and night about the terrible happenings of World War II, was right in front of us. This was just so neat to see. After this tour, my friends and I headed to our new resting spot...the Marriott Hotel. After the experience we had had the night before and the condition of the hostel, 4 of us decided that it was worth the 5 extra Euros (yes, only €5 more than what the hostel was), to stay in the luxary of the hotel. After a while of relaxation, we made our way to the famous Red Light District. We decided that with 4 of us we would be safe to go at night, and honestly all felt perfectly safe. This really just was an interesting place to see. The girls in the windows, the people who were walking into these doors, knowing what was going on behind closed curtains, and the overall atmosphere of the place was just crazy. But our Red Light District experience did not stop with just wandering the streets...we decided that when in Amsterdam we need to dowhat people in Amsterdam do...so, yes, we went to a show, a live sex show. The place we went is actually known as the place which started the Red Light District (Margaret and Bryan had actually told me about it). I kept an open mind going in, not really knowing what to expect, and really was quite intrigued by what went on. Obviously it was just a performance, but I kept asking myself, what these girls and guys were thinking. It made for an interesting hour and a half, especially since we were seated in the front row, but I am glad I can say I took part in the Amsterdam experience. After the show, we made our way back to our amazing beds at the hotel.
Sunday morning I woke up and headed to the Van Gogh Musuem. After my experience at the museum on Saturday, I decided I definately wanted to see Van Gogh's paintings as well. And once again, I am glad I went because there were so many interesting paintings to see. There was also a collection of letters that Van Gogh had written to his brother, which allowed us to get an idea of what the famous painter was thinking about certain works of art. My favorite thing to see in this museum though was not a piece of artwork hanging on the wall...but it was a letter from Van Gogh to his brother with his first sketch of 'Starry Night' (the original is at a museum in NYC). It was incredible to see how a tiny sketch on a letter, became one of the most famous paintings in history. Following my time at this museum, I made my way to the Heineken Brewery where I took part in the Heineken Experience. This experience was very fascinating to me, and ton of fun. I learned the history of the beer (which began in Amsterdam, in the building which I was in), got a hands on lesson of the ingredients of the beer, went into the very factory where Heineken was first made and got to crush some barley and stir the ingredients in a boiler, then I got to see the stables and Heineken horses, this was followed by an interactive 4-D ride/movie, of the entire beer process, where I was the beer, then was the taste test where I sampled a glass of Heineken, and then I got the chance to bottle my own bottle of Heineken which I got to keep (it had a personalized label saying I bottled it on it). After all of this the tour ended at the bar where we got 2 pints of Heineken. I really was a very interactive and hands on tour that I enjoyed, and a great way to end my time in Amsterdam. Because after this, I headed to the train station, to catch the train to the airport.
All in all, Amsterdam was a good experience. I can say I went, although honestly it would probably not be at the top of my list of places to go back to. There was to much smoke, drugs and people acting stupid, for me to be around 24/7, and although it is legal there, I am still not a big fan.
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