Honestly, my job is a lot like my job with Family Preservation in Austin, but way more chaotic from a management perspective and goals of the team. The team I am part of is called the Crisis Intervention and Support Team. We are basically a part of Social Care (Social Services) and get referrals from other social workers dealing with CPS or just children in need. Within my team there is an educational psych, clinical psych, 2 social workers (including me), a youth worker, and social worker assistants (don't have a degree and do more practical/hands on work with families). We also just got some new family therapists. We work with young people 12-16 and their families who are on the verge of a family break-down or just having major problems. A lot of the kids are also being rehabilitated back home after being in a foster placement due to a CP concern.
Social workers here in the UK definitely have the stigma that I think they did in the USA in the 70's. "Don't really do much and take kids away." I have to keep reminding people that I have clinical training and was previously doing therapy. I have to give myself little ego boosts every now and again...haha. There is definitely more of a hierarchy here than I am used to. Within my team though we have an Australian, South African, Venezuelan, 3 Black Caribbean-Brits, Indian, and two white-Brits. I work in the borough of Brent, which is the most multi-cultural area in all of Europe! White Brits are the minority here. I have had clients from Pakistan, India, Ireland, Jamaica, and Morocco! It is just amazing. I love being a part of such a diverse area. I have learned so much and it is such an experience to be welcomed in to these people's home and get a glimpse of how they live!
The thing that I am not loving are the fact that I have to take public transport every where. I mean there is not another option. It is fine at times, but I am always late and by the time you get to someone's home you are a bit frazzled and tired. It also gets dark here at like 330 so I don't like wondering around with my little street maps in areas that I am not familiar with. I really don't get much here in regards to guidance. In supervision I am not supposed to discuss cases! My supervisor has a very rigid, structured way of doing them. We talk about any issues I am having with the team and or about trainings. I am supposed to schedule case discussions with her, but she is never available. And to be honest, I don't get helpful feedback from her. Kinda annoying. I have become very close though with the other social workers and we process cases every now and then. I guess I am just confused with what my role is exactly. I will be hard to type, but I am not supposed to be doing "therapy" and don't have case responsibility. I am trying to balance that. I have began to establish good rapport with several clients and then to find out that their case will be transferred to a family therapist in a different dept. These kids have attachment issues anyways, do I find this very damaging and confusing. I don't know if that made sense, but I just fine things very chaotic and not defined well.
I have been doing a lot of individual learning and feel like I am getting such a rich cultural experience. A lot of my kids ask about The States a lot and gangs. It is so humorous and precious at times. I have a little 11 year old who said that he was a Crip. I asked how long he has been one and he said since they started a year ago! ahah, super cute. I think I am going to start a group with my good friend and fellow social worker, Joanna, in 08 for teens that have parents that were born in countries other than the UK, but they themselves were born here. I have found that the confusion that they experience is a common theme. They identify as British, but their parents are still living as they would in their native countries and expect their kids to as well. Lots of my families are struggling with this concept. I think that would be a fascinating group and hope I can pull it together. I will also be supervising a university student next year. They will be doing a semester at our office and I will supervise them. Don't know if I am ready for that, but hey I am excited!
20 Dec 2007
18 Dec 2007
18-Dec
What do fast moving jet aircraft, peanut butter, and birthday-clown magic tricks all have in common???
Other than be mentioned in this post, absolutely nothing.
Leah and I got to enjoy a nice night out in London Central for her birthday last weekend. It began when I showered her with gold coins and precious herbs as she left work. (I always go for the "Wow" factor....) We made our way downtown to London's largest skating rink in Hyde Park for one hour of skating. Now...don't get me wrong, I'm a math person...and if indeed your ice rink is the largest by area in London, you have every right to advertise it as such. But, you should realize that people will be expecting a lake-sized expanse of finely sheeted ice which meets the horizon in all directions. The reality is, however, anti-climactic - but we enjoyed every second of our hour on the ice. (well...45 mins..we got there late..) Plus...0 wipeouts.
The rink is part of a Christmas-time family attraction called The Winter Wonderland. A few shops, some rides, and a haunted house(?) filled out the rest of the park area. I managed to snap a photo of one of the more interesting shops we spotted along the way. I wish I got the guy behind the counter included in this shot. He looked equally as festive as the products he was selling....axes and reindeer hides. Nothing like fresh reindeer jerky and a handaxe for last minute stocking stuffers.
Next we took a walk down the most posh street I've ever been on, Sloan Street. I got the feeling we were going to be taxed for getting footprints on the sidewalk. We ended up at a nice little restaurant called Mimosas where our streak of being nearly the only customers continued. Tonight, we didn't mind. Other nights...it gives you the feeling that the restaurant just got slapped with 32 health code violations the night before and your the only one who didn't get the memo. It was a nice place despite them overcharging 12.50 for an item listed only as "Food" on the check. Other non-food menu items included, "Bits of Plastic", "Shards of Glass", and "Sand".
We're both pretty excited to make our trip back to the states for the holidays. It'll serve as nice intermission for me - seperating the transitional phase from the travel and productivity phase. Plus, neither one of us can wait to see the familty and friends that we've been away from.
Next year, we're hoping to get in some good travel (which is being planned already) and have some good trips to write about. My personal hope is that next year, Leah and I are able to continue realizing the vision that we both had before coming here. These past five months have been memorable in their own right. It's already become difficult accounting for all the things that have broadened my views and awareness. That was expected.
Merry Christmas.
More to come next year.....
Other than be mentioned in this post, absolutely nothing.
Leah and I got to enjoy a nice night out in London Central for her birthday last weekend. It began when I showered her with gold coins and precious herbs as she left work. (I always go for the "Wow" factor....) We made our way downtown to London's largest skating rink in Hyde Park for one hour of skating. Now...don't get me wrong, I'm a math person...and if indeed your ice rink is the largest by area in London, you have every right to advertise it as such. But, you should realize that people will be expecting a lake-sized expanse of finely sheeted ice which meets the horizon in all directions. The reality is, however, anti-climactic - but we enjoyed every second of our hour on the ice. (well...45 mins..we got there late..) Plus...0 wipeouts.
The rink is part of a Christmas-time family attraction called The Winter Wonderland. A few shops, some rides, and a haunted house(?) filled out the rest of the park area. I managed to snap a photo of one of the more interesting shops we spotted along the way. I wish I got the guy behind the counter included in this shot. He looked equally as festive as the products he was selling....axes and reindeer hides. Nothing like fresh reindeer jerky and a handaxe for last minute stocking stuffers.
Next we took a walk down the most posh street I've ever been on, Sloan Street. I got the feeling we were going to be taxed for getting footprints on the sidewalk. We ended up at a nice little restaurant called Mimosas where our streak of being nearly the only customers continued. Tonight, we didn't mind. Other nights...it gives you the feeling that the restaurant just got slapped with 32 health code violations the night before and your the only one who didn't get the memo. It was a nice place despite them overcharging 12.50 for an item listed only as "Food" on the check. Other non-food menu items included, "Bits of Plastic", "Shards of Glass", and "Sand".
We're both pretty excited to make our trip back to the states for the holidays. It'll serve as nice intermission for me - seperating the transitional phase from the travel and productivity phase. Plus, neither one of us can wait to see the familty and friends that we've been away from.
Next year, we're hoping to get in some good travel (which is being planned already) and have some good trips to write about. My personal hope is that next year, Leah and I are able to continue realizing the vision that we both had before coming here. These past five months have been memorable in their own right. It's already become difficult accounting for all the things that have broadened my views and awareness. That was expected.
Merry Christmas.
More to come next year.....
26 Nov 2007
November 26
Ok, my turn! I guess you could say I am the lazy one when it comes to writing. Joe and I are doing well and forget now what it's like to speak with an American accent...haha, not even close. It was a bit weird living in a country that doesn't celebrate Thanksgiving when that time rolled around. We did though have a pseudo Thanksgiving last Saturday. It was held at one of the other American's flat and we had a group of about 15 or so. The fun part was the fact that there were people from England, Scotland, Australia, and South Africa to help us celebrate. A lot of them needed explaining about what the holiday really meant. Many, and rightfully so, thought it was a bit barbaric that we celebrate massacring the poor Indians. So explanations were necessary.
My job is going well so far. I love the people I work with and can say that I am a lot less stressed than I was in Austin. Most of the work is done in my clients' homes which is very interesting. I have clients from all different backgrounds. Many are Asian, African, or Caribbean decent. I am learning a great deal and feel privilege to hear the variety of life stories shared. On the downside though, England really kills you on taxes. Every time I get paid and I certain that there is some kind of mistake, when unfortunately there's not.
We haven't done as much exploring lately as we started off doing. Joe and I have successfully passed colds back and forth. I must say the weather is a bit of a change from Austin! One thing I do experience a few times a week is walking down a road in the mornings where there is a primary school. It is so neat to see all of the parents accompanying their children to school. You would not believe how many cultures and races are represents on this short journey. It is as if all of the difference just melt away into one common goal or daily routine. It is an enjoyable way to start the day, seems to radiate a vibrant wave of hope.
I promise I will write more often, even though Joe's blogs will be more entertaining than mine will ever be. I do miss everyone and keep you close. It is amazing how random things I witness or hear remind me of memories with you all!
My job is going well so far. I love the people I work with and can say that I am a lot less stressed than I was in Austin. Most of the work is done in my clients' homes which is very interesting. I have clients from all different backgrounds. Many are Asian, African, or Caribbean decent. I am learning a great deal and feel privilege to hear the variety of life stories shared. On the downside though, England really kills you on taxes. Every time I get paid and I certain that there is some kind of mistake, when unfortunately there's not.
We haven't done as much exploring lately as we started off doing. Joe and I have successfully passed colds back and forth. I must say the weather is a bit of a change from Austin! One thing I do experience a few times a week is walking down a road in the mornings where there is a primary school. It is so neat to see all of the parents accompanying their children to school. You would not believe how many cultures and races are represents on this short journey. It is as if all of the difference just melt away into one common goal or daily routine. It is an enjoyable way to start the day, seems to radiate a vibrant wave of hope.
I promise I will write more often, even though Joe's blogs will be more entertaining than mine will ever be. I do miss everyone and keep you close. It is amazing how random things I witness or hear remind me of memories with you all!
11 Nov 2007
11-Nov
Well, I know it’s been a while since I’ve written anything, and the 2 or 3 people (including myself) who still read this have probably been very upset. For all the days spent wandering in the darkness and confusion – lost without direction or purpose due to my failure to post new material, I apologize.
Since the last post, plenty has happened. I started work as a supply teacher at a school for high needs kids about a week ago. It’s been good fun so far, but more importantly, it’s been keeping me busy and earning some money for a change. I’m still keeping my eyes out for other opportunities, but at least the burden and anxiety can have a rest. Today I’m on a Virgin train headed across the English countryside to an interview on the other side of the country. It’s cheaper than the gas it would cost to drive and you get to kick back and relax and even save an hour in the trip time. (because it travels at 4,000mph…)
Now that work has started, Leah and I are getting pretty excited to start planning some trips to the rest of Europe. We’ve gotten a pretty good taste of London. We went to the British museum last week (very cool, pic to the left), China Town a few weeks before (not so cool), and visited a few of the nicer suburbs in between. So far, the city is pretty uniform in appearance.
Among the other artifacts, some of which were pushing 5,000 years old, the British Museum houses the Rosetta Stone. Very cool to see up close. You can kind of see in the photo to the left the Hieroglyphics on the top and the translated languages below.
Other than that, I wanted to share a partial little list I’ve put together of the extremely subtle pros and cons of life in London. Only after meticulous scrutiny and unbiased evaluation was I able to assemble this list.
Extremely Subtle Pros
- All shopping carts are equipped with 4 fully rotating wheels, allowing for improved maneuvering and cornering ability over their US, fixed rear wheel, counterparts.
- Televised sporting events have limited (or zero) commercial interruption and half-times are much shorter.
- The youngster in me enjoys the armed police. Most don’t carry anything, but the armed cops carry automatic rifles and land mines. Ok…no land mines…
Extremely Subtle Cons
- Most heating systems are based on radiators in each room. This leads to uncomfortable ‘hot spots’ and the occasional minor burn when accidently touched.
- Most people here are not familiar with the laws governing the use of the sidewalk. Namely, when an oncoming person approaches, it is natural for each person to move to opposite sides of the walkway to facilitate a smooth passing experience. When a mother walking shoulder to shoulder with her 37 children approach and ignore this understanding, decisions have to be made that no one should have to consider. You start looking for weak ‘links’ in the chain to aim for in the hope of breaking through their defensive formation. So far, I’ve learned to aim for little ones.
- Instead of using large slabs of concrete which provide an even surface, sidewalks are made of tiny concrete squares. Over the years some have drifted, some have sunk, some have risen, and almost all of them have been responsible for someone completely eating it.
Pics:
1. The minister's speech at the wedding comes to mind. (strangely)
2. The entrance to Downing Street. (where the Prime Minister lives)
3. Just like home. We caught the Dolphins/Giants game at Wembley Arena.
Since the last post, plenty has happened. I started work as a supply teacher at a school for high needs kids about a week ago. It’s been good fun so far, but more importantly, it’s been keeping me busy and earning some money for a change. I’m still keeping my eyes out for other opportunities, but at least the burden and anxiety can have a rest. Today I’m on a Virgin train headed across the English countryside to an interview on the other side of the country. It’s cheaper than the gas it would cost to drive and you get to kick back and relax and even save an hour in the trip time. (because it travels at 4,000mph…)
Now that work has started, Leah and I are getting pretty excited to start planning some trips to the rest of Europe. We’ve gotten a pretty good taste of London. We went to the British museum last week (very cool, pic to the left), China Town a few weeks before (not so cool), and visited a few of the nicer suburbs in between. So far, the city is pretty uniform in appearance.
Among the other artifacts, some of which were pushing 5,000 years old, the British Museum houses the Rosetta Stone. Very cool to see up close. You can kind of see in the photo to the left the Hieroglyphics on the top and the translated languages below.Other than that, I wanted to share a partial little list I’ve put together of the extremely subtle pros and cons of life in London. Only after meticulous scrutiny and unbiased evaluation was I able to assemble this list.
Extremely Subtle Pros
- All shopping carts are equipped with 4 fully rotating wheels, allowing for improved maneuvering and cornering ability over their US, fixed rear wheel, counterparts.
- Televised sporting events have limited (or zero) commercial interruption and half-times are much shorter.
- The youngster in me enjoys the armed police. Most don’t carry anything, but the armed cops carry automatic rifles and land mines. Ok…no land mines…
Extremely Subtle Cons
- Most heating systems are based on radiators in each room. This leads to uncomfortable ‘hot spots’ and the occasional minor burn when accidently touched.
- Most people here are not familiar with the laws governing the use of the sidewalk. Namely, when an oncoming person approaches, it is natural for each person to move to opposite sides of the walkway to facilitate a smooth passing experience. When a mother walking shoulder to shoulder with her 37 children approach and ignore this understanding, decisions have to be made that no one should have to consider. You start looking for weak ‘links’ in the chain to aim for in the hope of breaking through their defensive formation. So far, I’ve learned to aim for little ones.
- Instead of using large slabs of concrete which provide an even surface, sidewalks are made of tiny concrete squares. Over the years some have drifted, some have sunk, some have risen, and almost all of them have been responsible for someone completely eating it.
Pics:
1. The minister's speech at the wedding comes to mind. (strangely)
2. The entrance to Downing Street. (where the Prime Minister lives)
3. Just like home. We caught the Dolphins/Giants game at Wembley Arena.
6 Oct 2007
06-October
Last time, Leah and I brought to you the details of our beautiful trip to the city of Bath and told you of the wondrous Roman baths. This week, we accidently caused a medium-sized natural gas explosion which leveled a city block. That’s all for now. Will write more later….
Just kidding...As the real story goes, we’ve been doing well. Last weekend, we got the chance to see the Shakespeare play, ‘Love, Labour, Lost’ at the Globe Theatre. It was done very well, appropriate I suppose, and surprisingly, Leah and I came away having understood the majority of the plot. My only complaint was the frequent planes soaring overhead. It was an open air theatre, so you can imagine that each plane did a fantastic job of blotting out about 10 seconds of the play. All things considered, it was a great experience. Sorry, no pictures – this time we just forgot to bring the camera.
During the past week, I’ve spent the majority of the time tackling job hunting. I had an interview on Monday and another on Friday. Both went relatively well, and I’m crossing my fingers that something manifests soon. If not, I’ve already made plans to start ‘Plan B’ by assembling my boy band. I’ve decided to be the creepy one. I’m going to wear deer antlers when I’m in public and “Bah” like a sheep for any media interviews. I just need 2 or 3 more band members to occupy the other token roles.
Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.
This weekend we are keeping it local. We are going to Madame Tussad’s Wax Museum, the prime minister’s house, and London’s China town. We’ll make sure to have the camera handy when Leah TP’s the prime minister’s house.
This weekend we are keeping it local. We are going to Madame Tussad’s Wax Museum, the prime minister’s house, and London’s China town. We’ll make sure to have the camera handy when Leah TP’s the prime minister’s house.
In closing, I just wanted to include a quick picture that we took last week. I believe the photo speaks for itself and truly tells the chilling nature of the English people.
Till next time....
22 Sept 2007
22-September
Step 1: Rent car and travel to see Stonehenge and Bath
Step 2: Get lost
Step 3: Briefly go in approximately the correct direction
Step 4: Repeat steps 2 & 3 900 times.
Step 5: Arrive!
Well, I kid. Actually we only got lost a few times on the way there, but English roads aren't half as driver friendly as roads in the US. Maybe that's just what I'm used to. Driving a standard with the opposite hand, with a steering wheel on the 'wrong' side, on the other side of the road, in a city that doesn't emphasize road signs is about the essence of the experience in a nutshell.
So that was the bad. A little rough finding our way. But it ended there. We stopped to see Stonehenge on our way to Bath, and although someone could sum it up as "just some old rocks", the experience of being there was magnificent. (I don't pull the "magnificent" card very often) The beginnings of the structure date back all the way back to 3500BC (that's before McDonald's was around...), but it was incredible seeing the rocks that still stood.
The history of the landscape and of the structure itself were impossible the comprehend. Leah and I both agreed the free audio tour was worth looking like a dirty American tourist. It was the first time of many throughout the day where I found myself looking at the picture and knowing it wasn't doing the experience justice.
About thirty more minutes west of London is the city of Bath, aptly named for being home to Roman Baths built in the 1st century (65-75AD). Leah had heard from co-workers that in addition to being a historical site, Bath was also a beautiful city. She heard correctly. I think the final tally of Leah or I saying, "I could live here" reached about 70. We first walked through the narrow city streets and made our way to the end of a thrity minute que to see the inside of the baths.
Now, I've been to some crappy museums...places where I nod my head at each exhibit and allow a fake gesture of the hand to emphasize my pretend interest at each stop, but I've never been to one where I wanted to read EVERYTHING and see EVERYTHING until today. I can honestly say (and I think Leah would say the same for herself) that I was completely captivated and immersed from the time we stepped in to the time we left the baths.
It would take 5 pages to describe everything. We saw copper and gold coins that were in circulation at the time of Jesus, tombstones from 50AD, Roman cobblestone streets, not to mention the baths themselves. Minus needing a few chlorine tablets to solve the algae and parasite issues in the water, the baths were in incredible shape for their age.
Lastly, was the city of Bath itself. It was a beautiful marriage of city and nature. The river Avon flowed north to south through the center, and each half of the city sloped gently downward toward the river. The result was an incredible view to the east and west of neatly lined houses and green fields. The small streets were packed with what could be called "Lars stores", which are small "cute" stores selling anything from clothes, to wine, to little "trinket" things.....maybe Leah should explain that...
Well that's enough for now. We have this our rental car for one more day so maybe we'll try somewhere else tomorrow. I can't wait to check the manufacturer's website to see if the car has 7 or 8 horsepower. It feels like it has about the same kick as a garage door opener.
Later.
Other Photos:
(hopefully, the descriptions match up...)
- The abbey outside the bath
- Me and Dickens striking a serious pose
- The River Avon
- Garden near the Avon
- The crescent. Basically a crescent moon-shaped building adjacent to a huge field.
Step 2: Get lost
Step 3: Briefly go in approximately the correct direction
Step 4: Repeat steps 2 & 3 900 times.
Step 5: Arrive!
Well, I kid. Actually we only got lost a few times on the way there, but English roads aren't half as driver friendly as roads in the US. Maybe that's just what I'm used to. Driving a standard with the opposite hand, with a steering wheel on the 'wrong' side, on the other side of the road, in a city that doesn't emphasize road signs is about the essence of the experience in a nutshell.
So that was the bad. A little rough finding our way. But it ended there. We stopped to see Stonehenge on our way to Bath, and although someone could sum it up as "just some old rocks", the experience of being there was magnificent. (I don't pull the "magnificent" card very often) The beginnings of the structure date back all the way back to 3500BC (that's before McDonald's was around...), but it was incredible seeing the rocks that still stood.
The history of the landscape and of the structure itself were impossible the comprehend. Leah and I both agreed the free audio tour was worth looking like a dirty American tourist. It was the first time of many throughout the day where I found myself looking at the picture and knowing it wasn't doing the experience justice.
About thirty more minutes west of London is the city of Bath, aptly named for being home to Roman Baths built in the 1st century (65-75AD). Leah had heard from co-workers that in addition to being a historical site, Bath was also a beautiful city. She heard correctly. I think the final tally of Leah or I saying, "I could live here" reached about 70. We first walked through the narrow city streets and made our way to the end of a thrity minute que to see the inside of the baths.
Now, I've been to some crappy museums...places where I nod my head at each exhibit and allow a fake gesture of the hand to emphasize my pretend interest at each stop, but I've never been to one where I wanted to read EVERYTHING and see EVERYTHING until today. I can honestly say (and I think Leah would say the same for herself) that I was completely captivated and immersed from the time we stepped in to the time we left the baths.
It would take 5 pages to describe everything. We saw copper and gold coins that were in circulation at the time of Jesus, tombstones from 50AD, Roman cobblestone streets, not to mention the baths themselves. Minus needing a few chlorine tablets to solve the algae and parasite issues in the water, the baths were in incredible shape for their age.
Lastly, was the city of Bath itself. It was a beautiful marriage of city and nature. The river Avon flowed north to south through the center, and each half of the city sloped gently downward toward the river. The result was an incredible view to the east and west of neatly lined houses and green fields. The small streets were packed with what could be called "Lars stores", which are small "cute" stores selling anything from clothes, to wine, to little "trinket" things.....maybe Leah should explain that...Well that's enough for now. We have this our rental car for one more day so maybe we'll try somewhere else tomorrow. I can't wait to check the manufacturer's website to see if the car has 7 or 8 horsepower. It feels like it has about the same kick as a garage door opener.
Later.
Other Photos:
(hopefully, the descriptions match up...)
- The abbey outside the bath
- Me and Dickens striking a serious pose
- The River Avon
- Garden near the Avon
- The crescent. Basically a crescent moon-shaped building adjacent to a huge field.
16 Sept 2007
16-September
Well, I’ve probably gone too long without writing something. Since the last post, quite a few situations have evolved, and we’ve nestled into our living situation quite a bit more.
If someone had told me that I would be spending my 27th birthday having a BBQ with my Turkish and Kurdish neighbors in London, I probably would have guessed that I was a victim of mistaken identity in an international sting operation and was now imprisoned oversees in a jail that serves BBQ on the weekends. I guess that’s another way of saying, “I wouldn’t have guessed.” It was definitely memorable, and I guess that’s really what birthdays are all about.
Yesterday, Leah and I committed to getting out to see some sights 2 or 3 weekends a month, so we commemorated that commitment by going to check out some of the landmarks in Central London. We started out just south of the London Bridge, which despite being the main subject of a popular children’s song, was nothing special. It’s just an expanse of concrete and metal from one side of the Thames to the other. The only thing notable was the view of the other bridges and of the Tower of London.
It was immediately obvious that this country was born and raised Christian. There were cathedrals every few steps, and the size of each one of them made you feel especially insignificant. The first one along the way was Southwart Cathedral which sat along the south bank of the Thames. All of the cathedrals disallowed pictures inside, so I won’t attempt to explain and simultaneously discredit the incredible architecture and frescos inside. Next we stopped at the largest and probably the most famous St. Paul’s Cathedral Huge.
For a £9.50 entry fee, they'll allow you to walk around the inside. Instead we walked out and made sure we had adequate coverage of the outside of the building for free.
Although the name of the next cathedral escapes me, when we went in they allowed us down into the crypt below. (Leah threatened the staff with physical harm) Apparently, in the 1500’s, the church was built on top of the wreckage of a Roman church built as early as the first century. Although no photos were allowed, I cracked off a shot wild west style of the underground area. What I couldn’t show you is the ruins of the Roman road a little ways down the hall. Really cool. There was a petrified hobo clutching a 40 near a lamp post.
We saw a few open markets and were both in awe and impressed with the mix of culture and people. Everything from buying shark to olives, it was all there. I feel like we got a great sample of what London is all about.
If someone had told me that I would be spending my 27th birthday having a BBQ with my Turkish and Kurdish neighbors in London, I probably would have guessed that I was a victim of mistaken identity in an international sting operation and was now imprisoned oversees in a jail that serves BBQ on the weekends. I guess that’s another way of saying, “I wouldn’t have guessed.” It was definitely memorable, and I guess that’s really what birthdays are all about.
Yesterday, Leah and I committed to getting out to see some sights 2 or 3 weekends a month, so we commemorated that commitment by going to check out some of the landmarks in Central London. We started out just south of the London Bridge, which despite being the main subject of a popular children’s song, was nothing special. It’s just an expanse of concrete and metal from one side of the Thames to the other. The only thing notable was the view of the other bridges and of the Tower of London.
It was immediately obvious that this country was born and raised Christian. There were cathedrals every few steps, and the size of each one of them made you feel especially insignificant. The first one along the way was Southwart Cathedral which sat along the south bank of the Thames. All of the cathedrals disallowed pictures inside, so I won’t attempt to explain and simultaneously discredit the incredible architecture and frescos inside. Next we stopped at the largest and probably the most famous St. Paul’s Cathedral Huge. 
For a £9.50 entry fee, they'll allow you to walk around the inside. Instead we walked out and made sure we had adequate coverage of the outside of the building for free.
Although the name of the next cathedral escapes me, when we went in they allowed us down into the crypt below. (Leah threatened the staff with physical harm) Apparently, in the 1500’s, the church was built on top of the wreckage of a Roman church built as early as the first century. Although no photos were allowed, I cracked off a shot wild west style of the underground area. What I couldn’t show you is the ruins of the Roman road a little ways down the hall. Really cool. There was a petrified hobo clutching a 40 near a lamp post.
Next was the foyer of the Daily Express. Some Aussie said we’d definitely recognize things from inside, but Leah and I could only smile and nod. The design on the wall, in the words of the information guy, means this: Britain is the center gold figure, and all the little silver freaks around it are the puny countries too weak to defend themselves against the British Empire. (I’m paraphrasing)
There was also a very neat art deco winding staircase. (the real reason we came to London) Leah got the best shot she could by pointing straight up the center. Then she elbowed a little English man in the head after she took the picture.
We saw a few open markets and were both in awe and impressed with the mix of culture and people. Everything from buying shark to olives, it was all there. I feel like we got a great sample of what London is all about. Till next time.
Other Pics:
Court Building Big Ben Wembley Arena
2 Sept 2007
02-September
I was going to wait a few days for some good writing material, but it seems as though the last few days have been eventful enough to inspire a little writing.
Yesterday Leah and I learned the English interpretation of "salsa". Salsa earns quotation marks here because I'm not sure there's another suitable word to describe the soupy, liquidy, sweet crap that we had with our chips. I had to second guess whether we in fact purchased salsa, or pureed sweet peppers. Anyway, that was expected...what wasn't expected was seeing a Tex-Mex restaurant the other day in Notting Hill. Maybe their stuff is better...
In case you're not already aware, tortillas are a favorite food of mine. Simple, edible alone, or can be combined with a cornucopia of other foods. I'm pleased to say that Indian/Pakistani Naan bread has usurped command of 'Favorite Bread'. Not that anyone really cares, but seriously, Leah and I can't get enough. I stuffed my pillow with it last night, and its quite comfortable bedding material as well.
More important than either of the previous paragraphs, Leah and I introduced ourselves to our neighbors today. (Leah and I live upstairs, they live downstairs) We were out working in the garden (which is sort of shared between the houses) and about an hour after we finished, we noticed they were down tilling and weeding their side. We went down to say hello. The wife is Turkish and speaks good English. The husband is Kurdish. Sometimes he's hard to understand, but I simply spit at him and he tries harder... just kidding. In case you don't know, the Kurds are from Kurdistan, in northern Iraq. No surprise that he moved away about the time the US started blowing things up over there. The region as a whole is actually fond of the US, as Saddam was a bit brutal on the Kurdish people. Anyway, they have two daughters, 1.5 and 3, and the whole family is about as nice as you can imagine. Dinner Wednesday at our place.
Bye
Yesterday Leah and I learned the English interpretation of "salsa". Salsa earns quotation marks here because I'm not sure there's another suitable word to describe the soupy, liquidy, sweet crap that we had with our chips. I had to second guess whether we in fact purchased salsa, or pureed sweet peppers. Anyway, that was expected...what wasn't expected was seeing a Tex-Mex restaurant the other day in Notting Hill. Maybe their stuff is better...
In case you're not already aware, tortillas are a favorite food of mine. Simple, edible alone, or can be combined with a cornucopia of other foods. I'm pleased to say that Indian/Pakistani Naan bread has usurped command of 'Favorite Bread'. Not that anyone really cares, but seriously, Leah and I can't get enough. I stuffed my pillow with it last night, and its quite comfortable bedding material as well.
More important than either of the previous paragraphs, Leah and I introduced ourselves to our neighbors today. (Leah and I live upstairs, they live downstairs) We were out working in the garden (which is sort of shared between the houses) and about an hour after we finished, we noticed they were down tilling and weeding their side. We went down to say hello. The wife is Turkish and speaks good English. The husband is Kurdish. Sometimes he's hard to understand, but I simply spit at him and he tries harder... just kidding. In case you don't know, the Kurds are from Kurdistan, in northern Iraq. No surprise that he moved away about the time the US started blowing things up over there. The region as a whole is actually fond of the US, as Saddam was a bit brutal on the Kurdish people. Anyway, they have two daughters, 1.5 and 3, and the whole family is about as nice as you can imagine. Dinner Wednesday at our place.
Bye
31 Aug 2007
31-Aug
31-Aug, 2007
Well, it’s been a few days since we’ve moved in, and I think I can finally start referring to the place as home. Most of the furniture is here, and Leah and I haven’t wasted any time with adding a few personal touches here and there. (eg. Television, wireless router, toothbrush holder, etc.) Since getting the internet here, I feel like I can resume job hunting. I just got a call today for an interview on Friday of next week for what I expect to be a great job. Needless to say, it’s got me in a great mood.
So the learning for me continues around here. If you have a problem looking like an idiot several times a day, its better to stay home. Sometimes it feels like you’re learning how to live all over again. I found myself at a grocery store the other day not knowing where to get bags for the groceries nor how to swipe my credit card. For something so simple, I was fighting back to urge to demand that they place a big sign over the registers (tills) telling me how to buy things. Its ok though. Sooner or later I’ll figure it out and I’ll have the chance to unleash a loud menacing laugh when I see someone as lost as I was. I can’t wait…
The other day, Leah and took a walk a little ways north of our apartment (flat) and walked around a sizeable park reserve. I don’t think I’ve ever plucked anything from a branch in a forest and ate it, but there are wild blackberries that grow here, and that was more than enough for me to end that streak. We’re gonna have to go back up there at night and rip a few out of the ground and plant them in our garden.
Yeserday I met Leah at her work and met her co-workers. Except for the one girl that they all affectionatley call “The Brick Thrower”, they all seemed quite nice. After meeting the gang, we signed ourselves up with gym memeberships. My only complaint is that now instead of benching like 190, I bench about 80 because of the metric conversion. I was told it’s unlikely for me to get back up to 190 unless I’m willing to undergo a few intensive months of human growth hormone and steroid treatments. I’ll pass.
More later. Peace out. (Cheers)
Well, it’s been a few days since we’ve moved in, and I think I can finally start referring to the place as home. Most of the furniture is here, and Leah and I haven’t wasted any time with adding a few personal touches here and there. (eg. Television, wireless router, toothbrush holder, etc.) Since getting the internet here, I feel like I can resume job hunting. I just got a call today for an interview on Friday of next week for what I expect to be a great job. Needless to say, it’s got me in a great mood.
So the learning for me continues around here. If you have a problem looking like an idiot several times a day, its better to stay home. Sometimes it feels like you’re learning how to live all over again. I found myself at a grocery store the other day not knowing where to get bags for the groceries nor how to swipe my credit card. For something so simple, I was fighting back to urge to demand that they place a big sign over the registers (tills) telling me how to buy things. Its ok though. Sooner or later I’ll figure it out and I’ll have the chance to unleash a loud menacing laugh when I see someone as lost as I was. I can’t wait…
The other day, Leah and took a walk a little ways north of our apartment (flat) and walked around a sizeable park reserve. I don’t think I’ve ever plucked anything from a branch in a forest and ate it, but there are wild blackberries that grow here, and that was more than enough for me to end that streak. We’re gonna have to go back up there at night and rip a few out of the ground and plant them in our garden.
Yeserday I met Leah at her work and met her co-workers. Except for the one girl that they all affectionatley call “The Brick Thrower”, they all seemed quite nice. After meeting the gang, we signed ourselves up with gym memeberships. My only complaint is that now instead of benching like 190, I bench about 80 because of the metric conversion. I was told it’s unlikely for me to get back up to 190 unless I’m willing to undergo a few intensive months of human growth hormone and steroid treatments. I’ll pass.
More later. Peace out. (Cheers)
29 Aug 2007
22-Aug
Day 8
So far things are good. Today we moved into our new apartment in a quieter area. I neglected to get the internet ahead of time so it’ll be at least a week before I have reliable access. The apartment is nice though. It came newly furnished with just about everything we need to get things started. Right now I’m in the living (sitting) room with Devon, a Jamaican guy who’s finishing up the work in the kitchen. We got set up with a washer/dryer, a double bed in each of our two bedrooms (hint, hint potential visitors), brand new carpet, and a little yard with a garden. (I think some tomato plants are already started)
Last week, I spent most of the time in or near the hotel, but Leah and I took a few day trips around London. We went to Central London and saw some of the big ‘tourist’ sites. We saw Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and a few nice parks. So far, that’s actually been the most impressive thing. The parks are enormous, and do excellent jobs of making you forget that you’re in a big city. The landscaping, flower arrangements, and total ambience are first class.
Now that our bank situation (omitted intentionally due to lingering frustration) and living arrangements are both done, I’m turning my full attention to securing a job. I’m supposed to have an interview or two coming up for some nice gigs, but the numbers aren’t on my side yet. One more week, and I will be a household name in the job seeking market.
As I said before, we live in an area dominated by minority cultures. Leah and I have gotten rather used to Indian cuisine on a near-daily basis. In case you haven’t had it before and want to look like a pro your first time, just take the many things that are placed in front of you and combine them all together into one large pile on your plate. Then simply dip bread in and out of the mass until you’re content with what has latched on.
Despite my sarcasm, it’s actually really good.
Well that’s enough for now. Perhaps one day I’ll actually send out a link to this blog so I can share.
So far things are good. Today we moved into our new apartment in a quieter area. I neglected to get the internet ahead of time so it’ll be at least a week before I have reliable access. The apartment is nice though. It came newly furnished with just about everything we need to get things started. Right now I’m in the living (sitting) room with Devon, a Jamaican guy who’s finishing up the work in the kitchen. We got set up with a washer/dryer, a double bed in each of our two bedrooms (hint, hint potential visitors), brand new carpet, and a little yard with a garden. (I think some tomato plants are already started)
Last week, I spent most of the time in or near the hotel, but Leah and I took a few day trips around London. We went to Central London and saw some of the big ‘tourist’ sites. We saw Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and a few nice parks. So far, that’s actually been the most impressive thing. The parks are enormous, and do excellent jobs of making you forget that you’re in a big city. The landscaping, flower arrangements, and total ambience are first class.
Now that our bank situation (omitted intentionally due to lingering frustration) and living arrangements are both done, I’m turning my full attention to securing a job. I’m supposed to have an interview or two coming up for some nice gigs, but the numbers aren’t on my side yet. One more week, and I will be a household name in the job seeking market.
As I said before, we live in an area dominated by minority cultures. Leah and I have gotten rather used to Indian cuisine on a near-daily basis. In case you haven’t had it before and want to look like a pro your first time, just take the many things that are placed in front of you and combine them all together into one large pile on your plate. Then simply dip bread in and out of the mass until you’re content with what has latched on.
Despite my sarcasm, it’s actually really good.
Well that’s enough for now. Perhaps one day I’ll actually send out a link to this blog so I can share.
17 Aug 2007
17-Aug
Day 3
Well I told myself that when we got over here I would keep a good account of everything that we dealt with and went through while getting acclimated to London. If for no other reason, it might be fun to look back once we're all settled and point and laugh at how dumb I was when I got here.
So far things have actually gone rather smoothly. Some of the "fun" started when our driver wasn't there to meet us when we got to Heathrow. Now I knew pounds were the currency, but when I had to ask for change for the payphone, I couldn't remember what the coins are called....
Pence. Damn ignorant Americans.
Our hotel is nice. Thick Victorian era walls laden with expensive paintings line the living room area. Thick carpets and lavish furniture fill each room. Expensive electronics. A small fire burns in the corner near a large oriental style rug. A labrador sleeps on the rug.....mmmm so nice but not very true. Actually, we are crammed inside a small room. I think the building was erected near the time that Earthly power was swinging away from reptiles and toward mammals. Whatever was just before Chromagnon Man.
The good news is that Leah and I were lucky enough to find a 2 bedroom apartment thats being renovated right now in a nice little part of West London. It comes fully furnished, it's close to the tubes, and will be ready for us on Tuesday. We couldn't be happier about it. Yesterday we worked on getting bank accounts, which was harder than it sounds. Without giving too many details, just think of a hobo walking into Goldman-Sachs and asking to finance a home. Well, not that bad...
The area where our hotel is is a strong minority area. (mostly Indian) We're headed into Central London today to get a feel for the rest of the city. It's interesting seeing people at work with men wearing turbans and women wearing traditional Indian clothing (sauris?). Maybe I will wear my ethnic 'two six-shooters and ammo belt'.
Out for now...
Well I told myself that when we got over here I would keep a good account of everything that we dealt with and went through while getting acclimated to London. If for no other reason, it might be fun to look back once we're all settled and point and laugh at how dumb I was when I got here.
So far things have actually gone rather smoothly. Some of the "fun" started when our driver wasn't there to meet us when we got to Heathrow. Now I knew pounds were the currency, but when I had to ask for change for the payphone, I couldn't remember what the coins are called....
Pence. Damn ignorant Americans.
Our hotel is nice. Thick Victorian era walls laden with expensive paintings line the living room area. Thick carpets and lavish furniture fill each room. Expensive electronics. A small fire burns in the corner near a large oriental style rug. A labrador sleeps on the rug.....mmmm so nice but not very true. Actually, we are crammed inside a small room. I think the building was erected near the time that Earthly power was swinging away from reptiles and toward mammals. Whatever was just before Chromagnon Man.
The good news is that Leah and I were lucky enough to find a 2 bedroom apartment thats being renovated right now in a nice little part of West London. It comes fully furnished, it's close to the tubes, and will be ready for us on Tuesday. We couldn't be happier about it. Yesterday we worked on getting bank accounts, which was harder than it sounds. Without giving too many details, just think of a hobo walking into Goldman-Sachs and asking to finance a home. Well, not that bad...
The area where our hotel is is a strong minority area. (mostly Indian) We're headed into Central London today to get a feel for the rest of the city. It's interesting seeing people at work with men wearing turbans and women wearing traditional Indian clothing (sauris?). Maybe I will wear my ethnic 'two six-shooters and ammo belt'.
Out for now...
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