Windy Queen

Where to Begin? I'm back again!

2012-02-06T12:08:00.000-08:00

My three month hiatus is over! I'm back and still loving London.

So I have a lot to catch up on in my blog which I may not get to so I might as well start with the relatively here and now.

On Saturday, 4 inches of snow fell in London. I can't say that I had that warm gushy feeling as it so peacefully came down. I thought of the dreaded mayhem it could cause and the disruption to my every to my life as they don't know how to deal with it this side of the world. I guess over the last two years I've gotten spoiled by the mild weather in London. Now I start to shiver after 40 degrees!

Anyway, it wasn't as bad. Heathrow was well prepared compared to the last time. Buses and trains were running without too many delays. It actually brought a smile to my face to see all the parents and children (adult children too) out in the Common on Sunday afternoon, throwing snowballs and making snowmen. Our grounds guy, shoveled the walkways, get this...with a long wooden plank.

The rest of my Sunday involved having a great Sunday lunch - beef roast with roast potatoes and all the trimmings at a cute tucked away pub near Clapham North with Amber, Stuart and Jason. Afterwards, we came back to mine and have some tea and wine with the heat cranked up. A perfect Sunday!

In my quest to lose a few pounds by my 35th birthday this month, I am trying the Dukan diet. People swear by it and have had dramatic weight lose. It is similar to the Atkins in that you eat protein but only for a short period of time. The diet is broken up into phases. There are no carbs, fruit and veg during the Attack Phase. The Attack Phase lasts 2-10 days depending on a true body weight calendar that charts your phases and the results are amazing. According to my personal plan, I only need to do the Attack Phase for 2 days for 2 lbs. However, I am going to push it a bit and move into the next phase after 5 pounds. The next phase consists of gradually adding veg and protein back into your diet. I'll give it a shot. Day One hasn't been too bad!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T14:46:00.000-08:00

This year I stayed in London. Not by choice but only because I had been back to the US two times in October and November and I really couldn't afford to go back.

Memories of Thanksgiving past kept popping into my head. All my US colleagues were off. Perhaps I purposely wanted to torture myself so I was constantly on MSN getting snippets of the Macy's Day parade and on FB. I was super homesick that I couldn't even bear for anyone to wish me a Happy Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving was always such a special holiday for me and my mom. We'd start planning in early the middle of October and slowly stock up on the Stove Top stuffing. As I got older, we started inviting my cousin Juanie and her kids. They loved having Thanksgiving at my house. We had constant food staples - my cream cheese ball, good corn, jello, cupcakes, cookies, and of course the newspaper ads. After dinner, the kids would look through all the adverts and make a top 10 wish list of toys or other things they wanted for Christmas. My mom and I would go away and use their list as a guide to help us shop.

I long for those days again. I've realized that whenever possible, I really need to be home for Thanksgiving. This is a very special holiday for me. My cousin refuses to try and cook a turkey without me. We were both in tears that day.

This year, I was fortunate to have 3 celebrations. My friend Bryn cooked last weekend. Her food was amazing. Then on Thursday I went to Gordon Ramsey's The Narrow for a Thanksgiving dinner. It was equally wonderful. I went with Helen and her friend Premika. In addition to the dinner, we had warm rum and apple cider with the best pecan pie. On Saturday, Amber hosted a Thanksgiving dinner at her flat. I helped her cook the roast. I was impressed with my skills since basically, I was handed a slab of meat and told to cook it. Luckily I had some onion and the beef only need salt and pepper.

Amber's turkey was delish! She bought it from a US military base which was significantly cheaper than in the local store. Also turkeys are not in season right now. They are eaten during the Christmas season. There were mostly Americans at her gathering but the food was wonderful. Afterwards, we had homemade pumpkin and pecan pie! I felt very inspired to bake a pecan pie! We also played Taboo. It was so much fun.

Nothing will ever compare with my family celebrations but I think when you are abroad, you try and recreate a bit of home. I think every dinner indeed captured the spirit of Thanksgiving. Better than nothing!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-11-22T14:08:00.000-08:00

There's nothing more to say other than I'm really bad at blogging regularly....Here is my attempt to catch up. Warning...this may just be a bunch of randomness.

1. I moved flats two weeks ago and I absolutely love my new place! I live right across from the Common. Since I am training for the London marathon, it's wonderful to roll out of bed and go for a run right across the road. I also signed up for an outdoor boot camp class at 6:15a.m. My commute is easy. I also have a really cool pub - The Windmill on the Common that I can now say is my local. They have the best Sunday roast and it has a nice English feel to it.

2. Oh, I got a place in the London Marathon! Apparently, I am pretty lucky to have secured a place on the first try. I wanted to run the marathon as a milestone to turning 35 next February. I wanted to go big! I also wanted to do something great for a charity; especially something to do with cancer or cancer support to honor my mother. I still plan to raise money. I am running for MacMillan Cancer Support. Donations please!

3. I lost my dear grandmother to liver cancer....my last living grandmother. I find it very hard to put into words since it's only been 3 weeks. I guess I'm still in shock and can't believe she is gone. In the end, I know I did right by her and my dad.

4. I really miss my friends in Chicago. They are probably the single reason why I would ever consider moving back to Chicago. I know they are great but every so often I am reminded of how lucky I am. Gera and Erica came to pay their respects at my grandmother's wake. Later that evening, Gera proposed to Erica. They also didn't mention they were celebrating their 4 year anniversary. I was really touched because I know that Gera had this special day planned for a very long time. We new something was up when they didn't go to Oktoberfest. I also know Erica has been waiting for a long time! This unselfish act really touched me. I am so lucky to be loved by so many people!

5. New quote I saw on the Tube that I am really digging - "We accept the love we think we deserve." by Stephen Chbosky...My interpretation....If we only think we are capable of receiving so much love, that is all we are ever going to get. Aim high!

6. I truly believe in the afterlife and reincarnation. Perhaps it's because I lost my mom and I needed to believe in something bigger than me to get me through. I believe that if you were not meant to be with someone in this life for whatever reason but you were really close with them, you will eventually be with them....Like Erykah Badu says..."I guess I'll see you next lifetime."

7. I will be celebrating Thanksgiving in London this year. Actually I'm really homesick thinking about it. However, I just couldn't afford to go back a third time in 6 weeks. I was almost tempted today to book a last minute flight but the responsible part of me said no....Anyway, I've already had one celebration last Saturday. It was amazing. Bryn had the best spread and was a wonderful hostess. We even had the turkey coma after the meal. I am looking forward to Amber's big bash on Saturday and trying out Gordon Ramsey's take on our faire on Thursday with Helen and her friend!

8. Sometimes it takes a lot of courage to do the right thing for yourself. Today I did just that! Maybe it's part of getting older and wiser too.

9. My flat didn't come fully furnished with kitchen plates, toaster, kettle, etc. I am excited yet stressed at buying these items and having my own things. It makes me feel very settled.

10. While we are on the subject of getting settled, for some reason New York keeps popping up everywhere. Is the universe trying to tell me something? In any case, it would not be for another 3 to 4 years.

Goodbye August

2011-08-31T14:41:00.000-07:00

Oh how I loved August. It's one of the longest months of the year. The last month of summer. So many hopes and wishes for the beginning of the month. So many things to cram in before it ends. Then the tide changes...Autumn approaches.

My August started out lovely. Mari came to visit and we headed for beautiful Praha. I was sad that the sun was setting a bit earlier...Okay, I'm a bit spoiled here. The sun started to set around 9:00p.m. instead of 9:45p.m. I knew once we headed North, we'd get a bit more sunlight not to mention great weather.

Prague like all the cities I visit was amazing in its own rite. It is the only city that did not get bombed during the World War and because of that many of the buildings are intact and have retained their period look. Mari and I walked around the city about two or three times. It is small enough but rich with great history. It's also a very romantic city. I would definitely go back.

Upon our arrival back home, I experienced the London riots and discovered the power of Twitter. After the Totteningham riots on Sunday, apparently the yobs took to the social media outlets and organized multiple riots to follow. On Sunday, it first started in my neighborhood Brixton. Technically I live in Clapham but if you walk about 2 roads, you'd be in Brixton. Thank goodness Mari was here with me. Like many things I've gone through, she was with me. She's my comic relief.

For the past two weeks, Orlando and Alyssa have been here. It's been nice to show them around London and discover some of it myself. We visited the Winston Churchill War Rooms. It was Churchill's underground war room where he strategized and commanded the war. Everything was left as it was in the 40's. Amazing. I think he is my new favorite person. I gained a new perspective on what it must have been like to live when war was breaking out in your own country. It also explains certain English ways such as conserving food and the famous saying "Keep Calm and Carry On."

That was my August in a nutshell.

Goodbye August. You were really nice. Time to let the seasons change.

New Beginnings - One is the Magic Number

2011-07-29T14:45:00.001-07:00

So I thought I would be better in July and blog a bit more. But here I am, the 29th of July trying to get a blog in before August.

I wrote that July was a blank slate and that I had nothing really planned but many possibilities on the horizon. It's definitely turning out to be just that.

I've been struggling lately to find topics to write about. This is my 21st month living here. Things were starting to feel pretty normal here in London. I was starting to feel really settled here...so I thought.

I've been quite hush about another side of my life here. My dating life. My journey to find that special someone, have a relationship, and really feel settled here. I still won't go into too many details but I thought I met someone that I felt very comfortable and secure with in many ways. He was American and had been here for 10 years. It felt like home to relax in his flat and be around him. I met his friends (yes some were British and lovely) and went to his local pub. The prospect of being able to come back to the US one day was great. He was also different from other guys that I've typically dated. He was very outgoing, up for travel, different music and political interests. It was a really nice feeling to be with him.

For whatever reason, it just didn't work out. The long term chemistry just wasn't there or we just didn't take the time to build it. I was crushed. My friends who know me well know what my motto is... NEXT....Life is just too short. I bounce back pretty fast and definitely started dating again but I guess you can say that I had a short period of mourning. I fully didn't understand it at the time.

I suddenly felt lost like I was a stranger in London. It was an erie feeling. I almost packed my bags and took a flight home just to be with friends, see my grandmother and to put things in perspective. Coincidentally, our gay friend had a "Girls nite in" and it was such a great time with him and the girls. I even got the polite, "Well I didn't really like him for you anyway," from my friend who was too nice to say anything when we were dating. This is exactly what I needed. Great friends...and I didn't have to travel 4000 miles away to find comfort in them.

I just didn't have the energy in me to make the journey home. I took some time to reflect why I was feeling so uneasy about the break up and the truth is...I'm not as settled here as I think I am.

When I left Chicago, I gave away everything in my home. My warm, safe home. My company didn't offer me an expat package so I didn't get to ship any of personal things here. I came with 5 suitcases which consisted mostly of my clothes, a few photo frames and albums, and a few of my favorite kitchen items. Then Stanley came over 1 month after. In no way am I materialistic but when you give up everything for a dream, I'm sure there's something that leaves you emotionally scared no matter how great the opportunity.

Since then I've been reluctant to invest in anything until I am 100% sure London is for me. My flat came furnished. I didn't have to buy plates, kitchen or bedroom accessories. I realized that I need to work on making myself feel more settled, more like home no matter how long or short I may live in London. It may sound odd but I bought some iPod speakers that I was holding off on for whatever reason. I am even going to buy myself to a food processor that Mari has been bugging me to buy and a laundry hamper. Affordability is not an issue. I suppose it was more mental. While insignificant to others, these are significant investments for me emotionally. It makes being here more permanent, a reality.

Coming to London was a major life change for many reasons. If you knew me back in Chicago, you would definitely say that I am a different person now. I think differently, have a wider circle of friends, expanded interests. If you got to know me now, you would understand and admire my story. This short relationship challenged me to change things up a bit. To start making London home for myself and be settled but not get too comfortable with life that I stop being curious. I want to take this journey to the next level. Continue to learn new things. Challenge myself in different ways and be humble about it.

Suddenly my blank slate in July is becoming a brighter, vivid canvas for the future.

Oddly enough, I was watching an episode of Oprah. She stated this very powerful quote, "Every death is a wake up call to live more fully, more completely, more presently."

This quote could be the story of my life.

Midsummer Madness

2011-06-30T03:28:00.000-07:00

It's a bit past midsummer but the first part of my summer has been mad. I thought I'd get a June blog in before the month is over.

In May, I was anxiously awaiting my passport and visa to be returned. I kept receiving news about my grandma's health and pestered my solicitor to try and move things along with the UK Border Agency so that I could see her. He suggested that I call my local MP which is the equivalent of a state representative. Now I'm not really into politics nor do I believe the political system can actually work for me. However, my MP's assistant was able to make better progress than my solicitor. She contacted the Border agent to get status on where my application was in the process. It turned out that my application was pretty far along. Within a few days, my solicitor had received my visa. I now hold a Tier 1 Visa! This will allow me to work for whatever company I choose and gives me a piece of mind knowing I won't have to leave the country if my job is made redundant. While I should have been happier, I was focused on getting on a flight home.

I was off to Chicago 4 days after my visa was returned. It was the most stressful trip I've had yet and not to mention heart breaking. This could have been the very last time I saw my grandmother. Once I landed, I asked Vicky to take me to see my grandmother for a quick hello. The day after I visited her, she was admitted into the hospital because she had a heart attack. I spent most of my two weeks in the hospital with her and speaking to the doctors about her condition. It was bittersweet. My aunts and cousins came by to visit. We talked about my dad, grandma's favorite foods and recipes, old memories, and debated on who was grandma's favorite. I got to spend some alone time with my grandmother and we talked about her time growing up on the farm in Ohio and I really got to see a different side of her...perhaps more vulnerable.

By the end of my visit, we learned that she has liver cancer and there is not much they can do for her because of her heart condition. It was very hard to leave but I had to get back to work and Stanley. I am going back for a quick weekend in a few weeks to celebrate her 84th birthday. This is the difficultly of living so far away. I am not sure if I could be away if my mom was still around. I'm not sure how my expat friends do it.

I also have to mention that I am fortunate to have great friends in Chicago which makes me very homesick when I leave back to London. They are always there no matter what. Mari helped me get to Chicago so fast with her buddy passes. I wasn't really able to spend much time with them. Lucy met me at the airport at 6:00a.m. and we chatted for an hour over Starbucks while I waited to leave back to London. Salud met me one evening on the fly and we went to our favorite place - The Ale House. Rosie is just Rosie...Rosie is home for me. Her kids really brought me joy from the craziness and I am sometimes sad that I won't be there to see them grow up. If there was ever one single reason to come back to Chicago, she would probably be it.

I came back to the UK for a few weeks and they were extremely busy too. We celebrated Sandra's birthday at a cabaret bar in Shoreditch. The following day, I went to the Royal Ascot for horse racing. On Sunday, I jetted off to Greece! Greece was amazing. Picturesque. I really needed that holiday. Blogs will be forthcoming for both Ascot and Greece. Last night I saw Paul Simon at the Apollo Hammersmith Theatre.

Now I'm coming up to July and it's somewhat of a blank canvas. I have nothing major planned. I'm thinking of moving to a new flat. I will probably sign up with a few letting agents. I have a new found freedom with options for my career. I'm looking forward to the first picnic in the park and also planning Alyssa and Orlando's itinerary for their visit in August.

A midsummer's dream!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-05-10T11:55:00.000-07:00

Our first full work week since the Easter holidays. Is it really only Tuesday?

1. It's going on 6 weeks that I haven't had my passport and thus not able to travel. I'm starting to get a bit anxious and feeling a bit trapped here especially since my grandmother is very sick. It's very odd considering in the US, my passport sat in a file cabinet most of the year except when I started taking my annual European or Latin American vacations.

2. In anticipation of getting my passport back, I couldn't help myself and booked a trip to Greece with Amber in June. Greece has been one of my top 'To Do's' while here. When Amber suggested, I immediately said yes. I'm looking forward to it. Time to get beach ready!

3. While on the topic of passports, I am very proud of my cousin for getting my godson and niece their passports to come and see me. We finalized their trip and Orlando and Alyssa will be coming for a visit to London in August. They will be with me for 3 weeks! Now I've got to start planning activities to keep them occupied.

4. It's been almost two weeks since England celebrated the Royal Wedding. I must say, it was a great day for Britain. From the media coverage, to the street parties (aka block parties) and the actual ceremony, it was wonderful to call England home and be a part of the festivities. I choose to watch the wedding with friends on the television. Starting at 9:30 in the morning, we drank champagne, ate cucumber sandwiches, and cupcakes. It was also fantastic that we were given the day off as a public holiday once the wedding date was announced. It almost made last Friday feel less special.

5. I went to Oxford on the Royal Wedding weekend. It was the perfect day trip. Only an hour by train. The train ride was pretty scenic. I'm amazed at how beautiful England is even 30 minutes outside of London. Once we arrived, we took a hop on hop off bus tour. I learned that penicillin was founded in Oxford inside a plantar box. Parts of Harry Potter were filmed in Christ's College. We toured the famous mess hall where they ate.

6. I explored Greenwich over the holiday as well. I had a picnic in the park which by the way is massive. I'm saving the prime meridian visit for when Orlando and Alyssa come but I did manage to have a few drinks at the pub along the river. Trafalgar is an old haunt of Charles Dickens.

7. I love the concept of Sunday lunch here. Sunday lunch consists of an early afternoon meal typically a beef, pork or chicken roast with roasted potatoes (in goose fat), Yorkshire pudding, veg and lots of alcohol before and after. It's a lovely way to spend a Sunday with family and friends.

8. I'm so digging the Addison Lee iPhone app that I recently downloaded. Ridiculous as it sounds, I've been trying to validate my reason for buying an iPhone. I don't use it for anything in particular...but that's all changed. With this new app, I can easily book a taxi service and they are usually super fast to arrive!

9. I still can't believe the costs here sometimes especially for pet care. Stanley needs to see a vet optomologist for monitor the pressures in his eyes. Well last week, I spent about $500 for 20 minutes of a specialist's time. It's not rocket science. He's blind. His eyes are not getting better. There's not much more that can be done for him. I was so upset that I had to vent to his regular vet that I saw later that evening. (Yes it was take care of Stanley day) She kindly offered to investigate other options for me as I have to take Stanley back to the specialist every 3 to 4 months. She even went so far as to call me directly on my mobile to advise that she could run some of the tests for a fraction of the price. It wasn't so much the costs but the vet's personal attention to me. One it's rare to find good customer service in London and two, it really made me feel more at home knowing I have a trusted vet. Dr. Rose has my loyalty now. Funny enough, they don't refer to vets or dentists as doctors...

10. Amber and Elaine went to Prague this weekend for the marathon. Part of me was bummed because I was very keen to run this race months back. The good news is that my heel is feeling much better due to my training sessions with Matthew. He's helped strengthen my core and sends me motivational texts and email. I love this guy. Still pondering the idea of running the London marathon. I'm sure Matthew will convince me.

Another Year Goes By

2011-04-25T14:15:00.000-07:00

Another year goes by and today marks the 4 year anniversary of my mom's death. It doesn't get any easier. While I know my mom is free from suffering and in a better place, I can't help but wonder what could have been. I wonder how my mom would have looked as she grew older or acted for that matter. Would she let her hair completely gray? Would she be a happy old lady or grumpy?

I also find myself wishing she was here to fill in the gaps in my memory of my childhood. I tried to ask her as much as I could about me as a baby...Like my first steps, first words, etc....But it's random things...The last two weekends, I've made it a point to get out and to bike ride because I love it so much. It is the one hobby that I've always enjoyed and has never faded. As I was riding, I wondered, how did I actually come to enjoy bike riding? Did I see my dad riding a bike? Who bought me my first bike? Who taught me how to ride? I remember having a pink bike with frills hanging from the handle bars. I think my dad came round and took the training wheels off for me. These are the memories that make me long to pick up the phone and call my mom.

Recently, I've started thinking about children and how I would enjoy being a mom and how I would raise my children like my mom did. Granted, I'm still way off from having children, I definitely look forward to that day.

Every year since my mom has passed away, I try to do something to honor her memory. The first year, I grew out my hair and donated 11 inches to Locks for Love. When my mom was first diagnosed with lung caner, I told her that I would eventually do it. The following years including this year, I've made a donation to Lungevity, a research and advocacy group for lung cancer and early detection. Next year, I am thinking of joining the cancer research team and running the London marathon. I'll also turn 35 so it will be a great milestone for me too. I'll have to raise 2000 pounds but it will be well worth it. Long term, I definitely want to be a philanthropist and help these types of organizations.

Despite not having my mom here, I very much keep her alive in my thoughts and in my heart. There's not a day that goes by when I don't think of her. I also like to lecture people about treating their mothers well and telling them you love them. You only get one mom and when she's gone, there will be no other. As I get older and the years go by, I know my memory will get worse. I may not end up remembering much from my childhood but I will always know that I was loved by my mom and she knew that I loved her. That alone is priceless to me and makes being without her less difficult.

I found this quote on the Internet that I shared with my family and friends to remember my mom today. " We only have One Mom, One Mommy, One Mother in this World, One life. Don't wait for the Tomorrow's to tell Mom, you love her." - Author Unknown.

Ten on Tuesday

2011-03-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

Lots of little things happening at the moment....

1. Last Wednesday I gave up my passport and submitted my visa application to the UK Border Agency. I am nervous and excited about the possibilities it can bring to me in the coming months. Until my application is processed, I am trapped on this island. I can't travel until I get my passport back.

2. I've been taking care of some domestic things...part of getting settled here and establishing my doctor. I hadn't seen an optician since I lived in Chicago so I started calling around and looking for one. I had my first eye exam yesterday. I don't necessarily understand their system. Although I've worn contacts since I was 12 years old, I still need a follow up exam after a trial pair of lenses, which I am also reluctant to switch...God I miss my eye doctor of 20 years!

3. In my attempt to try and run again, I went to see an Acupuncturist to help with my heel pain. Why not..I am always open to alternative treatments and medicine. It was definitely a different experience. All I could think of was the chant, "Stick a needle in my eye.". I'm not completely convinced of it's healing powers but I will stick it out for a few more sessions.

4. My best friend no longer works for the same company as me. I wish her the best but it's weird not being able to chat with her on IM.

5. I went to see the historic Oxford and Cambridge boat race. We got there early and then left for a bit to watch the England versus Wales football game. I should have known, when we came back to the river, it was super crowded and we were able to catch a small glimpse of the race. Nonetheless, it was very cool to be a part of an age old tradition.

6. For Lent, I gave up alcohol, coffee, chocolate, and candy. I'm definitely being tested lately especially when I saw the first pitchers of Pimms being offered at the boat race. I have to pat myself on the back because I was perfectly okay with ordering apple juice at the pub.

7. The time changed this Sunday. My stylist says that it marks the first official day of the British summer. Geez...this early...I've only just begun my summer workout plan. This is one thing that makes me really homesick...not having a proper Chicago summer.

8. The first official day of the British summer was lovely. I met up Geraldine and her little Louis at my local pub for Sunday roast. Then we took baby Louis for a stroll around the park. It was a gorgeous day. Looking forward to picnics in the park.

9. I am starting to plan activities for my godson Orlando and Alyssa when they visit in July. For the month of July, I will have a test run at being a mum. I am going to take some time off but they will be on their own when I have to go back to work. I purchased tickets for the IMAX cinema near the London eye along the river. I think this is something that teenagers would enjoy.

10. My friend introduced me to this cool website where I can watch the latest TV programmes. I was so hooked that I had a Grey's Anatomy marathon and now I am caught up. I am looking forward to this week's episode. I won't be able to watch it live but the next day will do.

Ten on Tuesday

2011-03-01T13:11:00.000-08:00

Ten on Tuesday came from Amber who got this idea from another blogger. Instead of a full on blog, you can write little bits and bobs.

1. I am excited for my upcoming trip to Paris this weekend. This will probably be my last trip for a few months. I was meant to run the half-marathon however, I have a heel injury I am working through with my pyscio aka physical therapist. This weekend I'll be the happy cheerleader.

2. I am in the process of switching my visa. After my trip to Paris, I will be surrendering my passport while my application is submitted to the UK Border Agency. My solicitor (immigration lawyer) told me that I would probably be without my passport from April until July - worse case scenario. Guess I'll have to travel locally! I'm already making plans for travel within the UK for the April and May bank holidays.

3. I watched the pilot of the Chicago Code online. While not the best show, I was captivated by the scenes shot around Chicago. I'm looking forward to the episode that shows Mary Queen of Heaven - my family church. Kind of makes me homesick.

4. I am running low on my favorite items from back home - Q-Tips, Crystal Light, Oatmeal, Oil of Olay body wash. Surprisingly my wish list isn't as long these days. I must have adapted to what is available.....I wish someone would send me a care package. :)

5. I switched Stanley's pet food awhile back and wanted to go back to his old brand because he's very itchy and I noticed his skin is flaky. The problem is that the American manufacturer of his old food is no longer shipping it to the UK. Just another thing to let go of from the US.

6. I am excited to try a new recipe from the cookbook I received for my birthday. It is called Mexican Food Made Simple by Thomasina Miers. She is the UK's version of Rick Bayless. She fell in love with Mexico as a young adult and went on to open 3 really, really good Mexican restaurants in London called Wahaca. It's the best Mexican food I've had here yet. I like this book because it shows how to make dishes with the ingredients available here. Nothing imported from Chicago.

7. As a birthday present to myself I finally caved in and bought an iPhone 4. I committed myself to a 18-month contract. Feels weird.

8. It's amazing how useful having the internet at your fingertips can be. I've always had it on my Blackberry but I am using it way more now that I have an iPhone. While reading all the captions at the Wildlife Exhibit, if there were words that were not clear, we'd look them up. It helps with my old age...Usually by the time I get home, I'd forget and sit there scratching my head.

9. No more getting lost in London. The Google maps app on my phone is really coming in handy. When I first arrived to London I was constantly getting lost. London doesn't have a grid system compared to Chicago streets so every journey needs to be carefully charted out. Sometimes I would consult my "London A to Z" (pronounced Zed) book. Otherwise, it resulted in expensive cab rides and countless late arrivals. This weekend, I used my app quite a few times. Hasn't failed me yet.

10. The Jersey Shore is hilarious. The UK is always a season behind but I still enjoy watching the episodes. I wonder what the people here think when they sit here watching this program. Nice dose of American culture.

Monday Randomness

2011-02-28T11:53:00.000-08:00

Not enough for a blog story but just enough for some random thoughts....

I went to the cinema on Friday to see The Fighter. I went to the concession stand to buy some popcorn. The attendant asked me if I wanted sweet or salted or mixed popcorn. I asked him if the salted popcorn came with butter. I got the strangest look from him and repeated my request. He didn't understand...I guess salted, buttery popcorn must be an American thing.

It's funny what you hear in the ladies bathroom...or toilet as they say here. The Fighter was about an Irish American boxer from Boston. After the movie was over, I heard a few women asking why the main character considered himself Irish. He wasn't from Ireland. Was his parents or grandparents from Ireland? I pretty much get this a lot here in London/Europe. Even though my family are Mexicans, if you were born in American, you are considered American. Although I do get the occasional...but you don't look like an American. Then I have to explain. It seems Americans tend to hold onto their roots.

One final thing about The Fighter. In one of the scenes, the championship title was held in London. I turned to my friend and commented that I didn't know big boxing events were held in London or that boxing was even big here. I was told that no, not everything was "American."

Helen and I went to the Wildlife Photography Exhibit at the Natural History Museum. It was amazing. We laughed like teenagers at the Bearded Tit bird and the Sperm Whale photographs.

I felt like I was in a time warp this weekend. After seeing my friend play a gig in Soho, we decided to bar hop. We thought we heard Jamie Fox' "Gold Digger" song. We went upstairs to check it out only to find George Harrison look a-likes and nothing but 50s music playing. The people/hipsters were even dressed from that era. We decided to leave because we felt slightly out of place and then headed to another bar not too far down. We then transcended to the 60s and 70s. The DJ was a short Asian guy with long hair and a black robin hood velvety hat. He was grooving to his tunes. I think there were other people out of place because there were a few guys overdressed with suits. It was hilarious to be off the beaten path!

A Year Wiser

2011-02-21T04:47:00.000-08:00

Today I am 34 years old - my second birthday in London. It 's been wonderful!

On Friday, I went to see my first live mainstream concert - Maroon 5. The cool thing was that the venue was a 10 minute walk from my house. Afterwards, we went to our neighborhood highstreet and had a drink at 63rd and Social, one of the local lounges.

Saturday, Alicia hosted a girls nite out at her flat. We share the same birthday so we decided to have a joint celebration. Our friend Crystal brought this delicious cake from Chinatown. A proper birthday celebration. It was so much fun being surrounded by the friends that I have made here.

Sunday, Sandra hosted brunch at her flat with some of our friends. She had a nice spread. Cinnamon muffins, eggs, british bacon, strawberries, walnut bread from our favorite brunch place. She also made pancakes with the Aunt Jemima pancake mix she brought back from Canada and we drank mimosas all afternoon. What a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Then a special friend cooked me a nice Sunday roast for dinner. It was the perfect weekend.

Today, I took the day off and will pamper myself with a facial and a massage at a spa in Notting Hill. This will be my first spa experience in London. Then I am going to meet up with my friend Helen for dinner.

I've asked myself, what is so different than all the other years....And the answer is not much.

I write this all in a good way. As I grow older, I've come to stop searching for the next best thing and be satisfied with what I have. I've realized that the best birthday celebrations involve being around the people that make you happy. It feels really good to be in a comfortable place within yourself - to know who you are, what makes you happy and where you want to be. Most importantly to be happy with the simple things in life.

With all my great fortune, I still can't help but feel a little sad today. Today was always a special day for me and my mom. We'd always take the day off from work and we'd do go shopping, to dinner at Lalo's or the Ale House, or get a manicure or a massage. She'd wake me up at 7:11a.m. on the dot to wish me a happy birthday and tell me the story about my birth.

My mom will always live within me but like I said, it's just the simple things that make you happy and you come to appreciate.

Hello 2011!

2011-01-02T02:42:00.000-08:00

I resolved to blog more often in 2011 but this New Year has been quite busy. I figured I'd get a blog in before January ended.

I rang in the New Year on a low key note. I went to dinner with my friend Amber and her boyfriend Stuart in Kensington. It was the first time that I met him and he was hilarious! Then we moved to a pub and stayed for the countdown. Around 11:40p.m. the pub cleared out so there were only about 10 people including the staff. However, I would much rather spend my time this way then being in a crowded club with drunk people. Maybe I am getting older.

Then I went on one of my top destinations on my 'To Do' list - Morocco...One word...AMAZING!!!! I didn't know what to expect. This was my first really long holiday. Mari flew in from Chicago and Amber joined us. We spent 8 days in Morocco travelling by train to Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakesh. Morocco was so raw and filled with so many emotions. It was a bit of a culture shock because it is Muslim country and not too touristy. Mari was our comic relief. At the end of the trip, I came back with loads of memories.

Eventually, I will blog more about my amazing journey but the highlights include the Gran Mosque in Casablanca built over the Atlantic Ocean, the ancient Medina in Fes and wandering the many paths while dodging donkeys, hidden gem restaurants within the medina (countless lamb and cous cous dishes), starting and ending my day with mint tea, riding a camel, having a monkey on my shoulder, street food in Marrakesh, the traditional hamman (scrub) and the bonding moment in the hamman with Amber, the drive to the waterfalls and climbing the High Atlas mountains and making friends with the locals.

I could go on.....

We then came back to London for 5 hours and went to Dublin to unwind like the locals do. I hope you can sense the sarcasm in my voice.

I had some downtime in between and started to refocus on my personal life.

Now I am back in Chicago for a few days for business. I was fortunate enough to catch up with my family to make up for the Christmas holiday and got to see Ceclie's baby.

Not a bad start to 2011! Life is good!

Christmas Time

2010-12-31T04:05:00.000-08:00

The Christmas season is really huge in London. People like to go all out with their celebrations. The women's clothing shops are stocked with party wear. It is really nice!

Early in the season, my friend organized a Christmas pub crawl. We all dressed festive with some of the girls actually wearing Christmas themed skirts. For work, we had a Christmas lunch. We had a 3 course meal. Afterwards we pub hoped. All in all, the celebration lasted from 2 - 11p.m.

Christmas is one of my favorite holidays. This year I really wanted to capture some of my great memories of Christmas pasts from back home. One of the first things I did was buy an artificial tree. I tried getting a real one last year but it just sat in my lounge and dried out. It was a small tree and I am not really into small trees.

My 6'6"slim tree arrived and it was great fun to decorate. I rearranged the furniture in my flat. Most of my decorations were bought from the pound store. It was difficult to get to a DIY (aka Home Depot) store to buy anything because of the distance and the weather. Now I was ready to host a few gatherings.

I had two Christmas gatherings at my flat. One for my book club friends and the other for my neighbhorhood and close friends. For one of the parties, I choose a more British menu. I cooked a roast ham with green beans and au gratin potatoes. Cooking a ham is a big ordeal. You have to soak it to remove the salt, then boil it and then bake it. Nothing is ever easy here...In the end, it came out fabulous! I brought some leftovers into work for my colleague. She had some and gave it to her daughter and she loved. It was great to have my cooking validated by British people!For my second celebration, I cooked my famous chicken chipoltle dish however I made a new dessert - Italian bread pudding that I saw on the food network. It was really easy to make and again came out fabulous. We had traditional Christmas crackers with a crown hat and a joke. Elaine got to pop her first cracker. We also had a Secret Santa.

The finally to wind down the Christmas season, I attended a Christmas concert at the Royal Albert Hall. The Kings College Choir from Cambridge and the London Symphony Orchestra performed. At one point in the show, we were able to sing along with the Choir. It was lovely!
I love that I am making new traditions here and building strong friendships. I can only see every year getting better!

My first Christmas in London

2010-12-31T03:23:00.000-08:00

This year I spent Christmas in London....Not by choice but by an unfortunate series of weather related events. A week prior to Christmas, the UK was hit with a really bad snow storm. See the pic below taken in my neighborhood of the snow a few weeks earlier that also disrupted travel. While this is not the actual snow that caused the delays, it wasn't much worse than this.
The UK is not used to getting snow nor were they prepared. Heathrow had severe delays and was operating with one runway. The travel delays had a ripple effect on Christmas travel and European travel overall.

Lately, when I've gone back to Chicago, I fly on standby because my friend works for the airline. Getting on a flight is dependent on the available open seats. Because of the delays, flights were canceled and passengers were pushed to other flights. My flight that had been wide open for the last month suddenly was oversold.

My friends and I were mentally preparing ourselves a few days prior for the possibility of spending Christmas in London. My friend Holly actually choose to stay in London so we all said that we would spend Christmas at her flat.

My other friends had delays but eventually were able to get home. Like it or not, I was spending my first Christmas in London. I have to say that it was not the worst thing. While I missed seeing my family, I didn't miss the stress of traveling from house to house and being on a schedule to visit this family and then go to that house.

For three days (Eve Eve, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day), I'd wake up late and take nice long relaxing baths. In the early evening, I would walk 10 minutes to my friend Holly's house. Our other friend Maria Ann flew in from Milan and we all celebrated together. Holly would serve me a nice glass of cava or something fizzy and we'd eat then sit and relax on the sofa watching the endless Christmas movies that were showing on the Tele. Christmas tele is really good compared to the US. They play popular movies. I watched Elf, the Grinch, Muppets Christmas Carole, Santa Clause the Movie, Fred Claus....See how much time I had on my hands.

On Christmas Eve, I cooked chicken mole and rice to keep my Mexican tradition alive. We went to Midnight Mass. It was absolutely beautiful. The mass opened with everyone holding candles and singing religious Christmas caroles. It was kind of funny to hear a Catholic sermon given in British English. After mass, we bumped into some really drunk guy on the street. Apparently, people get really pissed on Christmas Eve....Kind of like our Black Wednesday.

On Christmas Day, Maria Ann cooked homemade Italian meatballs, lasagna, and sauce. It was great. I usually have lasagna on Christmas Day so while it was different, it was still the same. Later in the evening, I came home and caught up with my family and friends.

London in general was a ghost town. Everything shuts down. There were maybe 5 shops open. Mostly convenient stores. On Christmas Eve, the supermarket was flooded with people stocking up on food for Christmas and Boxing Day. Taxis are double fare on Christmas Day. Even today, there are still not that many people in town.

I am not sure if I would want to spend next Christmas in London but it was a good test for me. It showed me that I really do love London and can be okay with being far away from my family around the holidays.

I'm back!

2010-12-27T15:06:00.000-08:00

Gosh, I can't believe it's been this long since I last blogged. In the New Year, I resolve to be better about writing as this is what I love to do.

So where to start as I resurrect my blog.....

To sum it up, the last 5 months have been filled with more traveling, building friendships and becoming more settled in London. It took a few trips back to the States and several wonderful experiences to make me realize that I really love living in London. Life in the US suddenly seems ordinary compared to living in a foreign land. Until my curiosity wanes, I will remain in Europe. I've realized that I can come home quite often and the 8 to 9 hour flight really doesn't bother me. When I visit home, I get my fix of shopping, family and friends, and food...enough to get me through my next visit.

I am taking steps to become more settled here. I currently have a company sponsored visa. In January...(if I ever stop traveling long enough), I am going to switch my visa to one that will allow me to remain in the UK without working for my company. This gives me a bit more flexibility. I can even start my own business or do contracting work under this new type of visa.

I am working to build my credit history here. It's really, really hard to get a credit card which is a good thing. In the US, they give credit cards away like free candy....Not here. You have to have lived in one residence for at least a year. You are also unfairly judged if the previous resident had credit issues...and is nowhere to be found. Your acceptance is sometimes based on geography....Anyway, I finally got my first credit card through my bank. Lovely!

I've started investing in household items for my flat and have been thinking about shipping my personal belongs from the US. I recently bought a whisk, roasting pan, a soup pan, serving dishes, and a Pyrex casserole dish. It sounds funny but my mom's friend Betty refers to it as nesting...I think I'll wait another year to determine if I want to ship my other things. Since I'm renting, I don't want to lug this stuff from flat to flat.

Most importantly, my family and friends have been very supportive. For their own unique purposes, they would love for me to come back home. The reality is that we probably wouldn't see each other more or less. They understand that I am very happy here and we continue to make the distance work.

Another Tick off the List

2010-07-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

In my attempt to assimilate into British culture, I've learned to play tennis. For the last two weekends, my friend Krishna and I have booked the tennis courts in Clapham Common and she has been so gracious to teach me a few things that she knows.

Last weekend, I was really good at my backhand. Probably because I was trying to workout my triceps so I made sure those muscles had a good workout. This week my forehand was better. However, sometimes I hit the ball thinking I'm trying to hit a home run or playing golf! Krishna definitely has patience for me. After a 20 minute warm up, I get into a stride and we can actually have a good rally.

This week I felt like I got the true British experience when I was playing tennis. There was 3 men and 1 woman playing doubles next to us. They were all in their 50s to late 60s. The banter between the men was hilarious. They would make fun of themselves in their English humour. When I missed the ball, I cursed, "Shit" or "Fuck" or "Maaaaan". Kind of ghetto. The English men on the other hand said, "Bugger" or "Bloody ball". When Krishna and I were in the rhythm of rallying, we'd say "Awesome!" My colleagues and non-American friends always tease us about this word. It's truly American. On the other hand, the British men would say, " Well played" or "Well done," in their proper form.

After the games, Krishna and I have been going out for brunch. This week we explored Abbeyville Village. It's a little residential area within Clapham that has a small town feel. Very family oriented. Stanley's vet is there and coincidentally, we were there on Saturday. I couldn't explore too much with Stanley. On Sunday, we checked out the farmers market that is open every Sunday. The market has fresh fruit and veg and great baked goods. They were also selling plants and flowers. I bought a small goat cheese tart. After the market, we settled on a small French cafe. Breakfast was fantastic. The French never do a bad meal. The waiter was so nice and charming. We promised him we'd be back next week.

I am really starting to settle into my neighborhood and I'm taking advantage of all it has to offer.

Portugese Love - Algarve

2010-07-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

In May, I asked the universe for more "girl" friends to hang out with that were local to me and in my neighborhood. Well the universe hasn't failed me yet. While my sorority sister was here for work, she introduced to me to her co-worker who introduced me to her friends that live in the area. Mostly Americans expats (and a Canadian and Brazilian) of course because it's almost impossible to meet British friends outside of work.

On a night out, they mentioned that they were renting a villa along the south coast of Portugal and invited me along. Of course, I couldn't pass up a holiday - a warm one at that and the opportunity to get to know these women better. Since the holiday was planned for the 4th of July weekend, I knew I would also be homesick if I stayed in London. I quickly booked my ticket for the Algarve.http://www.algarveuncovered.com/

It was my first beach/sunny weather holiday in Europe. It was awesome. Most of the girls had been there the entire week. Gabi and I arrived during the last weekend at the villa. Upon our arrival, we had a quick bite and then headed for Karaoke. We were not received very well. Becky, who ran the Karaoke machine, had very strict rules. Probably a bit jealous of all us girls. Nonetheless, we had a great time!

Saturday, we lounged by the pool. This was the first time I had tanned since Anna's wedding last August. I was feeling a little pasty. Spiritually it felt good to be there. I starting to get my balance back. I read by the pool (my attempt to finish a book I've started 4 months ago), took short naps, and then cooled off in the pool. One of the girls brought a copy of People Magazine. It had been ages since I read this magazine. Apparently they sell it in the UK but it's about 4 pounds!

In the evening, we went into town for dinner and then to the main strip for dancing! The town - Albufiera is a popular destination amongst the British. There were not that many locals but load of people on Stag and Hen dos aka. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties. The funny thing is that the British are really into dressing up or what they call fancy dress. So there was this group of girls on a Hen do dressed up in skimpy Sailor suits. There was this mechanical bull that the girls were having fun with. The men didn't mind either. We also headed to an outdoor club that had a Miami-esque feel to it. We came home to find that the villa had been broken into. The robbers took some cash from one of the rooms, a few blackberrys, and an iPod. I was fortunate that nothing was stolen from me. I am not really surprised because Amber's purse was stolen in Lisbon. It's just something that I've learned time after time when I travel. You have to be really careful with your passport, money and personal belongings.

On Sunday, it was the 4th of July. Holly's mom had sent over decorations so we brightened up the villa (including ourselves) with touches from home. For dinner, we made some typical staples we would have usually had for a 4th of July BBQ. On the menu - BBQ chicken, potatoe salad, corn on the cob, guacamole, watermelon, fruit salad, chocolate cake, and wine spritzers. There were no fireworks but it was nice to be in the company of fellow Americans and create our own celebration.

Monday we headed to the beach. It was lovely. Beautiful people, all colors, shapes and sizes. People just enjoying life....I was introduced to a world of European sunbathing. Yes, women sunbathing topless. It's not entirely new to me but the reality of it is shocking at first. People in Miami do it all the time. Only in Miami, I think the women try to show off who has perky and better implants. I told my manager about it when I got back. Like everything new I learn here, he laughed at me. He said that his mum sunbathed topless when he was young and that Scandinavians are very big on nudity. Kind of gross hearing that from a 35 year old man. Then my French colleague jumped in to say that her dad still prances around naked in front of them. I guess Europeans are more open with their sexuality and nudity. It's cool but I have to draw the line with children being naked in public spaces. Maybe on my next beach holiday, I'll muster up the courage to take my top off!

While at the beach, I did something quite unusual for myself. I actually went into the ocean without being forced to. My childhood ear problems have left me scarred about going under water but I couldn't let this moment pass. The water was so warm and refreshing and it just felt good.

Beach holidays always help me find my balance. It reminds me that I need to slow down and it definitely helps me clear my mind.

World Cup Fever Has Officially Ended

2010-07-12T13:43:00.000-07:00

I've been really bad at posting regular updates especially as they happen so I thought I would write about the World Cup as it has come to an end.

It was very cool living in Europe as the World Cup was going on. World Cup fever was everywhere. Flags hanging from people's cars, on construction equipment, and from flats. The local high street stores selling England bikini's and tank tops. The excitement and the build up week after week, the countless office chatter about which players did well and who they thought would win. Employers letting their staff make up hours to watch a 3:00p.m. game because historically productivity was low when Europeans were not allowed to watch the World Cup games. Drunk English men chanting their team's songs on the Tube. Patriotic souls also parading around my neighborhood with their flags, bullhorns and vuvuzelas.

I participated in my share of the fun. I joined a sweepstakes (a fancy word for pool) in which I drew two countries from a hat. I picked Germany and really stuck by them...well except when Australia was playing but then Germany whipped major Aussie butt...In the end, I won 6 pounds because of Germany. I partly did it just to mess with my colleagues. Here I am, am American girl that doesn't know a thing about football and I end up winning....Can you see the gloating??? We were actually nice to our colleagues when the US advanced and England lost. I have to admit, England was a little quieter and more humble.

I attended a few of the England and US matches. I was particularly interested in attending an England game. When England and the US played, I was in a posh pub in Nottinghill so there wasn't too much craziness, aside from two drunk guys punching each other in the chest. My friend invited other Americans and when USA scored, we gave each other low high fives. We feared what could happen in a pub full of English. For my next game, my Manager, Director and I had just come from Paris after a business meeting. There was no way he was missing the England game. Straight from the Eurostar, the plan was to roll right to the pub. It was one of the hottest days in London so I had to get my bearings and I joined later. Like a trooper, my manager was there and happy to have made the start of the game. The fans really have true spirit and are really passionate about their team. Even at the replays, they'd still have the same intensity - the "Ohhhhsss"...and "Yaaaasss" in unison. One weekend as I was coming home from Dublin, my taxi driver even commented that the reason he thought business was slow that Saturday was because England lost to Slovenia. Hmmm...interesting how a match loss could contribute to the economic downturn of London...Did the British really decide to stay home because they were so upset by the loss??

Each country has it's patron pub. My fellow Americans found refuge in Bodeans. Bodeans is an American style BBQ joint that shows all the US sports. It's also the best BBQ you can get in England that makes you feel close to home. There is about 5 throughout the city. It was quite strange to be in a pub with all Americans. One of the guys even had an American vuvuzela. That day, USA lost to Ghana. The only two Ghanians that were there had the guts to cheer when they won and the US lost. My English friend who was with us said that there was no way he would have gotten away with that if England was playing. He'd get his face kicked in by the English fans. He also said that we shouldn't be sad that we lost. Americans can't be good at everything.

Yesterday, as I was watching the match, a sadness came over me. This was the last game of the World Cup. Kind of like the Olympics coming to an end.

I was a rebel and cheered for Holland. As we know, Spain won. The Spaniards celebrated until the wee hours of the night. They climbed the historic statue in the palacio. They were proud to be called the best team in the world. Perhaps Americans don't feel as patriotic when our team wins the Superbowl or the Stanley cup. It's been great seeing the live coverage and reading about the World Cup in the newspaper. I am definitely happy to have witnessed it.

Two Ticks off the List

2010-06-01T15:37:00.001-07:00

Two weeks ago, Mari returned for an encore visit to London. This time she stayed for 12 days. During her visit, we had a picnic in the park, cooked Mexican food and did some local things in London. Mari's been here several times so it was cool not to do the usual touristy things and give her a taste of what London life is for me.

When Mari arrived, it was one of the hottest weekends in London. In true form, everyone was camped out in the Common for sunbathing, people watching, and Pimms. Yes, Pimms, the summer spirit. I was introduced to Pimms in April by my friend Rob. It is a liquor that almost tastes like Red Bull. You mix it with Lemonade (aka Sprite) and add apples, oranges, strawberries, cucumbers, lemon, lime and a sprig of mint. Almost like Sangria. Since its introduction to me, I have also adopted this as my summer drink. Mari was amazed at how many people where out in the Common. While it nice that it was really hot, it wasn't so nice being stuck on the Tube or in an un-airconditioned flat. Luckily, I have a split level flat and my bedroom downstairs was really cool.

I also ticked off two of my 'To Dos' while in Europe. We went to a friendly football match - England versus Mexico and the Sex and the City 2 Premier.

The football game was pretty cool. I had high expectations that all the Mexicans I haven't seen in London would turn up. I was disappointed when I saw the biggest concentration were in the Mexican fan section. I came to the sad realization that there are not many Latinos in London. Most of the Mexicans that were at the game had come from other parts of Europe (From what I am told it is easier for Mexicans to get visas to other parts of Europe like France.) They didn't go out of their way to say anything when it was obvious we were paisas.

We had our share of comic relief with Englishmen being obnoxiously drunk. One guy was so drunk, he almost grabbed my friend as he fell to the row below us. He also passed out and his mates left him. The England fans were also dressed up in mustaches and Mexican hats! It's okay because we learned a phrase from the Mexican fans. When the England goalie throws the ball back out Mexican fans scream - Puutttoooosss! The Mexican fans used it freely even after the game. At the end of the match, we got to see Mr. Hottie, David Beckham, as the England team walked the field to thank all the fans for their support as they go to the World Cup.

I'm glad I went but I am not sure I'd do it again. Wembley has weird British snacks and they ran out of ice for the soda 10 minutes into the game. You can only drink alcohol at half time by the concession stands. After the game is over, you have about 80,000 people trying to get back on the Tube. While the police do an excellent job at crowd control, it takes forever to get out of Wembley Stadium. But I've experienced it...so on to the next one.

Mari and I also went to the SATC2 movie premier. We got to see Sarah Jessica Parker, Mr. Big, a glimpse of Kim Catrall, Cynthia Nixton, and Kristen Davis. We also saw other American and British celebrities as they made their way down the red carpet to the movie theater. I always get star stuck. We were like crazed fans, screaming their names and snapping photos.

While I am making my way through the list, I keep finding more To Dos. Stay tuned!

Thought of the Day

2010-06-01T15:24:00.001-07:00

I've got a few posts that are in Draft mode but thought that I would easily put this one out in cyberspace.

Awhile back, I wrote that I am inspired by random Thoughts of the Day that are posted by the London Underground workers at the Clapham North Tube station. I have found a much easier route to take to work that doesn't involve as much crowds and waiting 20 minutes before you can squeeze on the train.

Typically on the weekends, I get on at this stop if I am going up North. Since Mari was here and we were doing the touristy thing - she also has no shame, we stopped and took a picture. She teared up when she read it...Ahhh...the feelings these thoughts can provoke.

Thought of the Day for Sunday, 30th of May.

Mexican Fiesta Night

2010-05-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I hosted my first gathering at my place. Two of my friends were here working and ever since Cinco de Mayo (which is not celebrated here), I've wanted to have a party at my place to showcase my Mexican specialities. I thought what a perfect opportunity to host a party. I also used it as an excuse to have my friends help me explore the night life in Clapham.

I'm not very good at estimating so I definitely bought too much food. On the menu - shrimp ceviche, guacamole, chicken flautas, quesadillas, beans, and shredded chicken chipotle. The drink of the night was palomas. I also brought out the tortillas I've been hoarding in my freezer. It's amazing how well the Antotonilco tortillas held up.

It wasn't as challenging as I thought it would be to find the products. I had the chipotle I brought back from Chicago. At the supermarket, I found jalapenos in vinegar for the ceviche. I researched Mexican cheese substitutes and it was recommended to use a mild white cheddar with a mix of mozzarella. For the palomas, I did not find Squirt but I tried bitter lemonade. There were only 2 types of Tequila to choose from. I choose not to go with Jose Cuervo. Too many bad memories. The biggest challenge was not having a car to haul everything back to my flat.

My party was a success. We had a great time. I was able to cram 12 people into my flat. I met a new friend that lives in my neighborhood.

After the party, we headed to the high street. There were so many people out. We headed to the Sun and then to Grafton House, my favorite place by far in Clapham. Unfortunately, Grafton closed at 1:00a.m. so we headed to the White House. White House is a really popular club that plays house music. People from all over London come for a night out here. I won't mention how late I came home but it was a good, good night! The bonus was that I was only 5 minutes from home in a taxi.

I will definitely host another gathering. I love being a great host!

Hastings - A Lovely Town

2010-05-05T14:31:00.000-07:00

Monday, I experienced my first Bank holiday in England. On a recommendation from a very drunk spectator at the London Marathon, Amber and I decided to take a day trip to the seaside town of Hastings. I hadn't put too much thought into planning this bank holiday. I think I was focused on my Easter break to Lisbon that I didn't really plan the two bank holidays we have at the beginning and end of May properly.

We boarded the Southern Railway from the Victoria train station and headed two hours southeast to Hastings for the Jack-In-the-Green festival. http://www.hastingsjack.co.uk/hist.html

According to the Jack-In-The Green website, "May 1st has long been an important part of the annual Calendar. It is the start of summer in these latitudes and as such has always been a day for celebration: the Celts celebrated May Day as Beltane; The Romans dedicated the day to the Goddess Flora and would go to the woods to cut a tree and decorate it with ribbons and flowers, this is the origin of the May Pole. In the 16th and 17th centuries in England people would make garlands of flowers and leaves for the May Day celebration, they became increasingly elaborate."

It is a very traditional festival in Hastings and has just been reinstated over the last few years. It's a six hour ordeal with a procession throughout the city. The procession stops and there is dancing in the streets. The process continues and ends at the Hastings Castle where old man winter (Jack) he is symbolically slain and the Spirit of Summer is released for another year.

It is very earthy and green celebration and of course there is lots of beer drinking. There was a street vendor selling flowered headpieces. We looked like Earthy Goddesses.

We wondered around Hastings. The weather cooperated most of the time although it was chilly for being May. We climbed up a hill unintentionally thinking it was the Castle. You think I would learn to wear the right shoes on these trips (deja vu from walking the cobblestones streets in Lisbon with heels). We had a great view of the castle and the seaside. There were also cheese and bakery shops that we walked into. I had very good cupcake. We went into an art exhibition. Some of the art was centered around the Jack-In-The-Green theme.

Once we figured out where the Castle was, we headed back there. We had a better view of the procession. We decided against going into the castle mainly because the drawbridge was under construction and had this scaffolding around it. The amount of people going through there made me nervous. You never know in these little towns.

About early afternoon, we headed back to London. We were in the mood for a great burger but most of the pubs were super crowded. In addition to the festival and the bank holiday, there was also a biker convention. We gave up trying to find a place in Hastings and found a really cool pub by Clapham Junction.

It was a perfect day trip. I was definitely happy to do something traditionally English.

Richmond Park - An Urban Gem

2010-04-26T13:44:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I met up with my friend Rob. We headed to Richmond Park which is about a 30 minute bus ride from Clapham. Richmond Park is one of the largest Royal Parks in London. According to the website, in 1625, Charles I brought his court to Richmond Palace to escape the plague in London and turned it into a park for red and fallow deer. I caught a glimpse of some deer through the trees.
http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/richmond_park/histor y.cfm

The park is amazing! You almost can't believe it's so close to London. This park is this urban gem, a mini-retreat from everyday life.

It had been almost a year since I last road a bike and I was really longing to go for a bike ride. For the last three weekends, we've had really nice weather so once again I decided to take advantage of the lovely day. At the park, you can rent bikes by the hour. This was not your typical bike ride along the flat Chicago lakefront. Richmond Park has dirt trails and many hills. I felt victorious as I rode uphill. I felt so free, controlling my own destiny riding along the path. Fifteen minutes later as I was reading the sign, "You are strongly encouraged to dismount," I took a nasty fall down the hill. I scraped my palms and knee pretty bad. I blame it on being a city girl riding on a dirt road and the bald tires. Maybe???

Luckily, I have a high tolerance for pain and a good sense of humor. I picked myself up and continued to ride..back to the bike rental.

We then walked through the park and I must say, it was sensory overload with green everywhere. There were also several creeks and ponds. There was this crane, standing in the water and there were ducks playing and jesting one another.

We exited the park and walked through the town along the river. Richmond is a very posh town as well. I really loved the vibe of the town. The river front was lined with sidewalk cafes and restaurants. Similar to Clapham, there were people everywhere just lounging in the grass and enjoying the day.

This is definitely one of my favourite places in London by far.

My Traveling Partner

2010-04-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

People have commented that I am so brave to venture out into another country on my own. They wonder how I do it being so far away from friends and family. The answer is simple. My Mom.

Three years ago today I lost my mom to lung cancer. She was my world - my soul sister, my best friend. In trying to cope with her loss, searching for the meaning of life and the courage to move on, I remembered her words to me as she was battling cancer...."Maybe now this is your time to move to another state or another country." Almost two years later, I dug deep and found the courage to pack up my life and move to London.

My mom had always known that I loved to travel and experience new and different things. She would take every chance to remind me to be financially responsible saying "Oh, you've bought too many clothes. Oh, you should save your money." Never once did she ever question my spending habits when it came to traveling. I remember when I was as young as 9 or 10, I belonged to a church that ran a summer camp in Green Bay, Wisconsin. As a single mother, she did everything in her power to make sure I could attend camp. When I was there, she'd write me letters, send care packages, and accept my collect calls, phoning her to tell her I missed her and was homesick.

So as I am here in London, 4000 miles away from home, I feel my mom with me. The coolest dream I've had is that my mom logs onto Facebook and checks out the photos of my travels.

I often wonder what she would like and dislike about London. My mom would absolutely love the mild weather. Not too hot and not too cold. My mom liked when it rained and the smell of the air that followed before a good rain. She would absolutely love how everyone smokes here. My mom smoked for 35 years. I think she would like the open markets like Colombia Flower Market, Borough Market and Spitalfields. We always loved to go shopping together whether it was browsing or to do some serious shopping.

She probably wouldn't like the transit system and the crowds. She loved having a car and running her errands fairly easy. She wouldn't really like the everyday food here but would like the occasional good restaurant. She would probably go crazy for not having a Dunkin' Donuts on every corner for her convenience.

As I travel Europe, I have these "ah-ha" moments. Last week it was as simple as lounging in the park with Stanley and being a peace. In Barcelona, it was the beauty of being by the sea. It's these breath taking moments when I think wow, I'm really here. I'm really experiencing this and not once do I feel alone because in a spiritual way I know my mom is with me. I know she would love just being with me and that we would enjoy whatever journey we were on. Always and Forever.

Carpe Diem

2010-04-19T15:21:00.000-07:00

The last two weekends have been really nice and sunny in London. The streets are even more crowded than usual with people. The cafes are packed with people dining alfresco. Everyone is people watching. The women are dressed in the latest fashion trends for summer weather. Cool, boho chic as I describe it.

From what my friends tell me, this weather is not really common. While we do have our share of sunny days in the summer, these days are few and far between and occur around June/July. I guess that would explain why us Londoners (notice how I include myself now) take advantage at the first sign of great weather.

Until a few weeks ago, I was on the fence about my neighborhood. It was recommended to me by my colleague, Patrick, at work. He asked me which neighborhood I liked in Chicago (he's an American expat from Chicago) and he would give me the equivalent in London. I told him I really liked the Bucktown/Wicker Park area in Chicago. I loved the little cafes, cool restaurants, and boutique shops that you could find there. Patrick recommended Clapham in Southwest London. You can read more about my town here - http://claphamhighstreet.co.uk/Content/chshistory.htm and http://www.loveclapham.com/clapham-common-guide/275

Patrick has made many friends here and really talked it up. He said that Clapham is a really cool place in the summer with outdoor music festivals in the park. He said that usually people just hang out in the Common and have picnics. People run and there are organized 5Ks in the Common. Moving to Clapham in Autumn and Winter months when people tend not to go out as much really didn't help give me the full appreciation.

Clapham is starting to grow on me. Patrick has introduced me to some of his friends. We went to a neighborhood pub on a Monday night for a pub quiz. Once after pizza in Brixton, we headed over to this other pub and played card games. Over the last few weeks, I've been exploring a bit more. I love to have breakfast and checked out a French cafe. It was followed by boutique shopping where I bought this really cute dress.

The most recent highlight was this Sunday. It was an exceptionally beautiful day. I had taken it easy most of the weekend and it was more of a go-with-the-flow kind of day. No hurry to do anything. I decided that I would have enough patience to take Stanley for a long walk to the Common. The Common is not really far in terms of "human" walking distance but with a partially blind, small dog that likes to sniff and mark everything, the peaceful experience can become frustrating very easily.

Not this Sunday. I kept Stanley focused and we made our way to the Common. To my expectation, there were tons of people out. You would think people were queueing up to watch some event. I liken it to July 3rd in Chicago when people stake their spot along the lakefront and Grant Park to watch the firework display. The only difference is that people were just lounging around to enjoy the day. It was funny because you'd see people with orange Sainsbury bags from the supermarket filled with goodies for a nice impromptu picnic.

I couldn't help but feel like a tourist and document this for my friends back home. It was really cool.

Stanley and I made our way through the Common and found a nice spot in the shade. We did our share of people watching.

I texted Patrick to see if by chance he was around because it seemed like everyone from the neighborhood was in the park. To my surprise, he was at the local Starbucks. We met him there and then found another place to relax. I let Stanley off the lead and let him sniff and mark to his heart's content.

It was a perfect day - eerily quiet and clear skies because of the flight restrictions in the UK caused by the Volcanic ash but perfect nonetheless. Life is really good. You have to seize days like this. Carpe Diem.

My Workout Plan

2010-04-13T14:54:00.000-07:00

Slowly, I am taking steps to establish roots in London. A few weeks ago, I found a hair stylist even though I almost freaked out as he was cutting my hair. I had been going to Ella in Chicago for 6 years. It felt like I was cheating on her....I have my favorite Thai place that I go to often. A certain brand of bread that I really like. Little things that are becoming routine for me.

I haven't quite been able to commit to a mobile phone package yet.

The biggest commitment I made so far was to join a health club. I joined Virgin Health Clubs which is a popular chain of gyms throughout the UK. Note - I only signed up for 3 months. I had to pay a bit more however because that I walk everywhere, I am afraid it won't be convenient enough for me so I am on my own personal trial basis. I also decided to sign up for two personal training sessions to give me the extra motivation. Today as I met this young 20-something girl, I wished for my old trainer Lisa. My new trainer was really nice though.

She asked me the typical questions - What are your fitness goals, how much weight do you want to lose, blah, blah.... We proceeded to take my BMI measurements. The first obstacle to overcome - how to convert my height into centimeters....no idea....Second obstacle - translate my weight in pounds to kilos and stones....She had no clue so she had me go on the scale at the gym. It was so funny.

As we proceeded to develop a workout plan, I went on the treadmill to warm up. When I was initially on the treadmill, I noticed I wasn't going as fast I would have expected had I been on a treadmill back home. She pointed out that I needed to be on the treadmill that calculated miles per hour. We were trying to figure out what my mileage would be in kilometers. How complicated. I swear the treadmill I used at my old gym gave me the distance in kilometers.

My experience pointed out the obvious that I already knew - only Americans have their own metric system. The rest of the world uses kilometers, centimeters, celcius, the correct date format. However, it's sooo hard to unlearn all the years of thinking in a certain way...Sometimes I get a headache when I have to write 13/04/2010 or 12-Apr-2010. Imagine big project schedules??

After my training session, I went home and converted my weight from stones into pounds! I turned to my trusty google tool bar for a conversion tool. Geez I have some work to do!

Do You Want the Truth or Something Beautiful?

2010-03-19T19:47:00.000-07:00

I love the lyrics of Paloma Faith's song for so many reasons. The truth is that I am really loving London. At times, I am torn between the familiarity I have in Chicago and the newness of London. London always wins out because I will call a new friend and make plans or think about all the things I still have to do in here.

This weekend my cousins are here from Chicago. Tonight we had drinks, dinner and drinks in Covent Garden at Harry's Cafe and Lounge. Despite the rain, it was a great night. We ended the night at Cafe Boheme. Most of the pubs close around 12:00a.m. so we walked over Cafe Boheme and ended the night there. We also made friends with this Australian guy.

It feels really good to have family here. Hopefully I will get to see other friends soon.

5 Month Reflections

2010-03-07T15:16:00.000-08:00

March 2nd marked my 5th month living in London. Wow..almost half a year. Ever since I came back from my trip to Chicago, I've had a renewed spirit for London. I look forward to planning my social activities and holidays here. Perhaps it wasn't that my spirit needed to be renewed however, I just wasn't quite sure how I felt about London.

The last month has been milestone month for me living here. I feel like I've hit my stride at work. I love my job. My responsibilities have expanded here. I have a great working relationship with my manager. He supports my career goals and really sees me as an asset to the company. I travel quite a bit. Every month for the next year, I will be in Paris for a monthly client meeting. When the weather is nicer and Sofia is free, I will make a few weekends of it. This Friday I am flying to Copenhagen for a meeting and then I am extending the trip into the weekend to do some exploring.

Personally, I continue to meet new people and explore different areas of London. For the last two weeks, I had been in the West End for a few nights out. Last weekend, I had two friends of a friend turn up and stay with me. I had never met them but they knew a friend of mine. They were grad students doing their MBA and needed a break after mid-terms. I was meeting up with my colleague and his friends for lunch so I brought them along. We had pizza in this really cool place not too far from me that I never knew existed because I had gotten in the habit of going straight to the tube for work - http://www.francomanca.co.uk/ Everyone got on very well. Later that evening, they also met up with me in Notting Hill for drinks which resulted in us making our way to the West End.

This weekend was pretty relaxed. On Friday, I met up with Jacqui and her mum, and sister-in-law for dinner at the Cattle Grill in Balham - http://www.cattlegridrestaurant.com/. I had a really tasty burger...not the salsbury steak texture they typically have here. Her mum invited me to Perth for Christmas and to Melbourne for New Years Eve.

On Saturday, I started training hardcore for the 10K Bupa run that I signed up for in Edinburgh, Scotland. From what people tell me, Edinburgh is very beautiful. It's about a 4 hour train ride. Most likely I will be going solo. I am looking forward it. This will be my redemption for my past experiences traveling alone. I also realized it had been awhile since I ran regularly so it's definitely a good training challenge.

On Sunday, I was in East London at the Spitalfields market with my friend Lucy. I love hanging out with Lucy. She encourages me to shop and we talk about the fashion in London. Spitalfields is a very funky, eclectic market. I love to people watch and see everyone's individual style who roam the market. Unfortunately, there was a power outage where the main stalls were at so we didn't do too much shopping. We did find a really good food hall and I had an arepa with chicken and cheese. Somewhat of a Mexican gordita. In the food hall, you could find everything from Ethiopian, Indian, Chinese, French, Italian, to Mexican food. Lucy and I had fun tasting the samples including the cheesecake.

After I left Lucy, I headed to an American Expat meet up group that was being organized in a pub in Hackney not too far from the market. I met Amber there. It was a really great time. We were kind of skeptical because Amber said they were not very organized in the past. There was about 10 -12 people and they were all very friendly. They were from all over the place - New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, New Jersey, and Milwaukee. We even had two Brits. One of them was a die hard Bears fan. He was sporting a Bears cap. I love him already. He said that there is a Facebook group for London Chicago Bears fans. I am all over that! I was great to hear their personal stories about how they came to England and their perceptions of this country. We definitely agreed it was hard to make British friends. (That's my new mission, befriend 3 British friends outside of work) The single girls talked about dating here which is very intriguing to get their perspective. By the end of the meeting, I had exchanged numbers with most of the people I met and I am looking forward to making plans with them when I get back from my trip.

So this is typically how my weeks have been in London. I try and make new experiences for myself and meet new people. I am keeping an open mind and taking every opportunity to venture out and create my own way here. It's been great!

Double Three 3-3

2010-02-27T05:11:00.000-08:00

Two weekends ago I celebrated my 33rd birthday in the West End. I met up with some friends that I have made here - Jacqui (right), from Australia, Amber (left) who I met in Barcelona, from Oklahoma but last lived in Chicago for 6 years, Jacqui's friend, Louisa and some of her friends.

In looking back at my blogs, I realize I've never speak too much about the new people that I meet...So here goes....

Jacqui's been one of my best friends since I've moved here. She's so sweet, the life of the party, enjoys cheap wine with me and loves Stanley. She's been a great Auntie, watching Stanley when I am away for business or on holiday. She even had him running short sprints with her! Her husband (also a great person) introduced me and Stanley to Sunday roasts which we love.

Although I just met Amber, I think we knew each other in another life. We arrived in London around the same time, both from Chicago, have similar interests, share similar stories, fellow single lady....to name a few...Notice how we almost match! And it was not done on purpose. I'm looking forward to our Easter holiday in Lisbon.

Back to my birthday....We headed out for a nite on the town stopping first at a "Mexican" restaurant for dinner. Food was tolerable for British Mexican food. From there we headed to Verve, a lounge/club in the West End. In the West End you'll find the theater district, night life, Chinatown, and loads of people always up to have a good time. The night was spent dancing to great music, laughing and just being silly. I had a memorable night that evening.

On Sunday, my actual birthday, I was invited for a Mexican lunch at my friend Rob's house in Chelsea. The food was awesome and it was great to meet his friends.

To cap off my birthday weekend, I met up with Jason. We had a few drinks in Chelsea at the Big Easy and he surprised me with a nice gift. I walk around with these white bobbie socks. Well Jason upgraded me to some white and purple checkered socks from a foo-foo place. I love it!

Jason was my first friend in London. We share a love of R&B music, he gives me great advice and he just cracks me up. He's shown me the ropes around my neighborhood and in London yet empowers me to learn some things on my own. I am truly grateful for his friendship.

It is my wish that every year, I continue to meet great people like Jacqui, Amber and Jason and make lasting friendships for a lifetime.

The Passport Stamp Demystified

2010-02-24T12:04:00.000-08:00

Another stamp on your passport. Although it may sound worldly or distinguish you from those who are not fortunate enough to globe trot, the truth is it's not that glamorous.

I'm here to tell you about some of my travel woes and mishaps. It seems like every time I go somewhere, something always happens. I don't want to continue to jinx myself but it's a pattern lately.

When I leave and enter any country, I can always count on being questioned about my occupation, if I still live in the same place, what type of business I am here to conduct, what is the name of the company that I am visiting, etc. Once as I walked away, I heard another agent, say to his colleague next to him "You see what I was trying to do." Deport me????

I also have to go into the "special" queue for non-EU citizens where there is only 1 or 2 agents for 3 or 4 flights that have arrived at the same time. I guess we do the same in the US. I have gotten used to it and succumb to the fact that this comes with being an immigrant in a foreign country. It also gives me more sympathy to what we in the US put our immigrants through. I am sure they have had to endure far worse.

So in my one of my earlier blogs, I wrote that on my first business trip, I went to the wrong airport. Well on Tuesday, I had to be in Paris for a very important meeting I was facilitating. I arrived at the station only to realize that I had forgotten my passport! I talked to the French authorities and there was no way I was getting on. My US drivers license wasn't going to cut it. I rebooked for the next train and rushed back home to get my passport. That day I must travelled the Victoria line 6 times! In the end, I was lucky to make it on time. Not a single hair out of place.

Today, I travelled Ryanair. They are notorious for wanting to make money off of you. They have very strict boarding procedures. If your bag is too big, you are charged. If you are late to check in by 5 minutes they refuse you. On the advice of my manager, I made sure everything was sorted before I left the office. I printed my boarding pass. I entered my passport information. Well how come I made it through the initial airport security and when it came time for me to board, I was denied? Turns out because I am a non-EU resident, my passport information had to be validated at the front desk. So really, what was the purpose of me checking in online and entering my passport information? There was no budging. I was told I needed to be escorted out of the airport. Embarrassed as hell, I had to call my manager yet again to tell him that something had happened to me as I was travelling and that he should not wait for me at the Dublin airport. After waiting an hour and a half for someone to walk me out of Gatwick, I finally made my way home. For a moment, I was ready to scream false imprisonment because the woman said that I need to stay near where she could see me and that being escorted was the only way I could leave the airport .

On another occasion after I arrived from Barcelona, I took the train home from Gatwick. It was delayed at 1:00a.m. (go figure). When I finally made my way home, I got off on the wrong stop in Selhurst (never heard of the town) at 2:00a.m. and there were no other trains until 6:00a.m. I was able to get a taxi. Of course the taxi driver asked me a million questions about why I was out so late, where I was from because I don't sound like I am from around here, etc.... I told him my train situation and that my fictitious boyfriend didn't have a car otherwise he would have come to get me and that he was waiting for me at home.

So what I have I learned you may ask? Going forward, I am going to read the fine print not once but twice and not take anything for granted. I'm in a new country with new rules. I also need to pay more attention to detail and make sure I have a plan when I travel. Perhaps subconsciously my nervousness gets the best of me. Maybe I need my friend Andrea (human map) with me permanently....or maybe I can just marry a British man and my passport problems will be solved!

I've Got a New Attitude

2010-02-14T11:00:00.001-08:00

Last week I returned from a 10 day trip to Chicago primarily for business. Yes, I've only been gone for four months and have been back 2 times but I think this trip really put things into perspective. I was lucky enough to have my trip paid for by my company and I was able to add a head and tail weekend to visit my friends and family.

Because I've never been in the situation where I lived away from Chicago, I never had to go back "home" to visit. I must say that it's quite stressful trying to make sure I see everyone. Then there's the added stress of shopping for things I don't get in London and eating food that I normally don't get it. Well that part is not so stressful but rather over indulgent.

What a week it was. Work was mentally draining. I caught a cold from the weather. I was jet lagged the entire time waking up at 5:00a.m. My colleague made fun of me because she said that I went away for 4 months and forgot what it was like to live in Chicago. I celebrated my birthday a few weeks early. Spent time with my favorite people in the world. Got to meet my cousin's baby for the first time. My cousin Ashley added my mom's name to her daughter's middle name. I was so touched. My aunt made this great photo album for me. All in all, it was a great trip but draining trying to do everything.

I arrived back home, with an extra suitcase more than I came with. As the taxi driver was driving down Clapham High Street, I was really glad to be coming back "home" to London. The streets were lively and bustling. The people were dressed really nice. As I stepped into my flat I felt a sense of home. I really, really like living London. I am starting to make more friends and have a more active social life.

This last trip helped me appreciate London even more. I am not homesick. By the time I left Chicago, I was ready to return back to London. I actually feel silly for buying soo many things. I also came home feeling like a fat American for eating so much.

Since I've been back (aside from getting food poisoning from some Cuban food I ate right before I left), I went to my first play in Covent Garden. I've been exploring some great restaurants in my neighborhood. I found Stanley a dog walker and he got his first groom (so cute!) I went to see some live bands play in Brick Lane last night. Today my client from Chicago was in for business. I showed him around London and in turn I learned how to navigate the city even more.

Life is definitely good in London.

Just Dance, Gonna Be Okay

2010-01-20T15:06:00.000-08:00

Wow, today I was invited to a mediation class in the form of dance. It is called 5 rhythms dance - http://beatrootdance.webs.com/5rhythmsislike.htm

You basically let your body go with the flow of the music and the emotions that you feel with it. I have to admit, when I saw a 60 year old man and a middle aged women galloping around the open area of a church, I could not help but laugh and wonder what the heck I was doing here.

But then I closed my eyes and just let the music take me away. Music can bring back so many memories, good and bad. After I left the session, I left very refreshed. I definitely recommend doing something out of the ordinary for your spirit.

It's Just the Little Things in Life that Put a Smile on Your Face

2010-01-07T14:09:00.001-08:00

I feel the need to blog about the little things in life that we (I) sometimes take for granted. When you stop to appreciate those things, it puts a smile on your face. I think this experience in London has opened me to see things like this. Periodically, I will blog about my little things.

Here are my little things for this week:

The email that I received from one of my best girlfriends (I am lucky to have about 10) telling me about her great news. I was very touched she remembered me thousands of miles away and included me in the girl gossip.

The daily IMs during work with Vicky. We were both on holiday together and separately so it had been awhile since we had our usual chat.

My catch up call with Rosie, giving her crap for not calling me but knowing that I am always on her mind. When we talk, it's as if I am right next to her...if you can understand that feeling.

My first Christmas card received in the post yesterday. Dang US Mail or maybe Royal Mail? :)

My great-aunt posting a message on my Facebook wall asking her if I called one of her contacts in London. She knows people everywhere!

What really got me this evening and prompted me to write this blog....Stanley's slobbery kisses and his enthusiasm. It's amazing what a dog will do for a little treat and for the love of his owner. We play this game every day to see what trick he will do for a treat. When I feel he's earned it, I say "Okay" and he happily hops over the kitchen where I keep his treats...tail wagging...Happy Feet.

Right now, he's relaxing by my feet. Ah...the good life.

Christmas in Chicago

2010-01-03T11:45:00.000-08:00

Going home for Christmas was a mix of feelings. I was excited to see everyone but what if I missed them too much and didn't want to go back to London?

I arrived on Christmas Eve around 1:00p.m. My stay was very short and every day was planned with seeing family and friends and of course shopping. I felt bad I could not see everyone in my short 4 days. My surroundings felt the same yet different. When I woke up the first day, all I could do was stare out the window at the houses and the snow. It was familiar yet foreign.

I gained a better appreciation for home. It felt really good to be home in the comfort of family and friends. Rosie made me feel very welcome in her home in the middle of her construction. My family welcomed me with open arms and my friends were happy to see me. Rosie's mom cooked tamales and posole that I ate the whole 4 days I was there. Yes, even for breakfast at 7:00a.m. I had the best coffee. I surprised my grandmother and loved the smile on her face. She even cooked my favorite dish of hers - fideo. Even though I changed up Christmas for my cousin and her kids, I really enjoyed it. I was very proud of her for keeping my mom's traditions. We shared some very emotional moments about growing up with my godson and moving forward in life. I loved sharing stories about Europe with my Aunt Diane's family. I also got to meet the newest baby in the family.

It snowed about 5 inches or so over the course of the weekend. I worried that I would forget how to drive or the main roads. Nope. If anything, I felt like a road warrior..Not only had I not driven in 3 months but I was still able to drive in the crazy snow.

On Monday, the 28th I headed back to London. Since then I've been a little homesick but I still have a lot to do in Europe. I had my first visitors, Niria and Sonia to ring in the New Year. I think it is perceived that London is so far from Chicago. At least for me, it's just a plane ride away. (I sleep most of the way) Thank goodness for modern technology to always keep me connected to my loved ones.

Happy Christmas!

2009-12-23T11:55:00.000-08:00

Today was my last day at work until the New Year and I can definitely say that the city is becoming a ghost town. I can easily get on the Tube, no pushing, no shoving. I might take the train to the airport instead of a taxi. My colleague said that the roads might be crowded and I'd be better off travelling by train.

We had some "bad" weather here. A light dusting of snow on Monday and a little colder than normal. My poor friend Jacqui's flight was cancelled to Prague but her husband was determined to give her a great holiday and rebooked on another airline. I was checking the local papers online for any word that Heathrow was having problems.

Right now I am watching some cheezy BBC Christmas show. They are playing an ABBA performance from an old segment...Since when does ABBA know Spanish - Chiquitita???

Anyway, less than 12 hours before I head out for my flight! Can't wait...

Happy Christmas as the Brits say!

I'm Dreaming of a Chicago Christmas

2009-12-21T12:43:00.000-08:00

Two Sundays ago, I booked a trip back home to Chicago on a whim....Maybe because Sofia was here and telling me about how excited she was to go home to see her family and friends. Maybe it was because I really haven't felt the Christmas spirit here yet. I miss the houses being decorated with Christmas lights (and not taking them down until the following year.) I miss the anticipation building up to Christmas - figuring out the Christmas menu, Juanie's kids making their Christmas lists, and just the overall Christmas feeling. Maybe because I just wanted some really good Mexican food....

Whatever it was, I decided I was going to come home for Christmas and I really made my aunt's day! While I am excited to go back home, I am also nervous. I wasn't supposed to come back until Easter. I wanted to give myself enough time to get used to living in London. I figured six months would be enough time to miss Chicago. It'll be 3 months on January 2nd. I think I'll be alright. I still have many things to accomplish in London and in Europe overall. Today I was just invited on a ski trip in February to the French Alps. That would mark one item off my To Do list.

So while I'm home, I plan to do some major shopping. This Saturday, I'll head to my favorite mall - OakBrook to check out the post-holiday sales and buy some works clothes. I am treating myself for Christmas and my birthday (I have to justify it somehow) to a MacBook.

I'll hit the Mexican food store and get Mesca and a few dozen tortillas. I'll then swing by Walmart or Target to get my beloved Dove body wash and facial products that they don't sell here. I also have to pick up my summer clothes from my mom's friend's house because I am definitely going to take a Beach holiday soon.

I can't wait to have some great food! COMIDA MEXICANA....Rosie's mom is cooking Tamales and posole. I love her mom's cooking. I may have to stop by Zaca T's in Berwyn for some good tacos.

Whatever, I decide to do, I'll be home for Christmas....(as Kanye West's song "Homecoming" is playing through my mind)

2 days and dreaming....I'm coming home again....

Around Town

2009-12-20T09:15:00.001-08:00

I didn't do too much this weekend. I am trying to keep it low key since I am going back to Chicago in 4 days! I did manage to go out and do some window shopping. There's something about shopping that fascinates me. I try to look for things that are different or similar to the States. I look to see what the best bargains are.

On Saturday, I went to the Kensington High Street. I wanted to check out Whole Foods and see if I could get Stanley some organic treats. There wasn't that big of a selection there but it will hold him over until I go back home and get him some 'real' treats. Like many Whole Foods in major cities, it was bustling. It felt a little like home.

Today, I went to Oxford Street. This street has the most concentrated area of stores in London. It reminds me of our Michigan Avenue and State Street combined in one. The windows are decorated. It was super crowded today but that's to be expected as everyone is doing their last minute shopping. Good thing I'm not in that boat. With moving to London and originally thinking I was going to be here for the holidays, I wasn't really gifting this year. While I'll miss getting everyone a gift, it's definitely less stressful.

I checked out a small Christmas market. Nothing like the chalets in Belgium. I am really glad that I had that opportunity. It didn't stop me from having roasted almonds and hot chocolate.

Here are my observations/revelations from being out around town and over the last week:

I really love the Victoria Tube line. It's closer to me than the Clapham North stop in the neighborhood that I actually live. This line is super fast and has really good connections. It left me right in the heart of Oxford Street in under 20 minutes.

Watching movies is not that bad after all. I didn't think that I had the attention span for it. Now that I have more time on my hands, I've watched: Sex in the City (yes definitely behind the curve on this one but just in time for the new one), Dirty Dancing (an old classic I've seen a gazillion times), Yes Man, Edward Sissorhands (I couldn't be bothered with it before) and Transformers (I had already seen it but was good). Not all this weekend but I did watch a few.

I'm being opened minded to music. I am listening to The Smiths, Morrissey, Depeche Mode, some UK hits, Sting, the Police, and the Beatles. Now I never thought I would like British music or even that really clubby stuff. I used to call Depeche Mode, cranberry music...(inside joke) But it's not bad...I guess when in Rome....

Nigella is awesome and inspires me to want to cook! I love her cooking shows especially the Christmas themed programs. When I get back from holiday, I think I'm going to have a housewarming party / post-NYE gathering with my new friends. I want to make her crab cakes. YUM!

Daily Wisdom from the Clapham North Tube Stop

2009-12-16T15:38:00.000-08:00

So I had to create two posts today because every day since I moved to Clapham, I've been bestowed a bit of daily wisdom on the Clapham North whiteboard.

As I make my way down the Tube escalator, there is the thought of the day written up on a small whiteboard. Really good ones in fact. The board is positioned so you almost have to stop and read it. I usually read as much as I can from my vantage point and then I look forward to reading the rest when I return back from work because I have a better view coming up. But then that makes me ask...why don't I just stop on my way down in the morning??? Anyway....

I'll take a picture and post the good ones.

Here was today's quote:

“I have had dreams and I have had nightmares, but I have conquered my nightmares because of my dreams” - Jonas Salk

How powerful is that...

Another one that really stuck in my mind was, "Don't make someone your priority, when you are their option." (not sure who quoted this) I love that one!

London Snowflakes Falling Down, Falling Down

2009-12-16T15:27:00.000-08:00

Today, I experienced my first snowfall in London. Everyone stopped to look out the window. They were amazed and scared....For a Chicago girl like me used to this, I was like oh...bring it on! However, it was a very light snowfall. Enough to get people worried about getting home. London is not used to having snowfall nor are they very equipped to handle it. Last year, my project team in London worked from home because the city shut down. Out of 20 people only 1 made it to the office and that was because she was in walking distance. I was getting worried that I might be stuck in the office rather than my house and poor little Stanley would be home longer than he should be without a walk.

The temperature is starting to get colder...about 30 degrees. I went for my morning run. I must admit I was proud of myself for running in the cold. It was just in May that I started running and here I am now a seasoned runner. I love it!

On the way to work, I noticed alot of brown pebbly stuff on the sidewalk. It looked like something your high school janitor would put over vomit before he cleaned it up. As I looked closer, it was salt mixed with mud...or grit as they call it.

My First Business Trip

2009-12-13T03:23:00.000-08:00

Last week Monday and Tuesday, I was on a world tour to Dublin and Rotterdam. My day started at 4:15a.m. I had a car service pick me up at my flat. We headed to the Gatwick airport. We must have took the side roads to a major expressway. I was not impressed with the surrounding neighborhoods. They looked dingy.

I arrived at Gatwick around 5:00 a.m. (yes, almost an hour later) and as I looked up at the departure board, I noticed that there was no flight leaving out of Gatwick for Dublin at 6:50a.m. Hmmmm, I wondered....I then checked my itinerary and realized that I was at the wrong freakin' airport! Leave it to me to get things wrong the first time. I suddenly panicked because this trip was a string of bookings that would ultimately lead me to Rotterdam. A very important meeting that I was coordinating.

There was no way I could cancel my trips. So I did the only thing I could do, I had to phone my manager. I embarrassingly explained that I was at the wrong airport and there were no flights to Dublin. He laughed...Thank god...He said that I should try and take a cab to Heathrow.

So it was kind of funny going up to the taxi post and asking for a cab to Heathrow. 95 pounds ($154) and an hour later I was at Heathrow. The taxi driver was so nice and said "Oh sweetie, I would have thought Gatwick myself." Those polite Englishmen....Apparently, this airline is synonymous with leaving out of Gatwick.

I arrived in Dublin for a 6 hour meeting. The clients were really nice. It is amazing how their business is so tied with history. Without divulging too much information about my client, they made references about how they run their business and how it dates back to World War I when Ireland was considered neutral. I found this very interesting and have taken an interest in re-learning European history. I found it boring and as I got older, realized that the history I learned was party biased because it is from the American point of view. Anyway..in these situations, I sometimes feel so ignorant with history and geography. Especially when I don't know where a particular country or city is. So this one goes on my list of 'To Dos' while in Europe. This one will be sooner than later. I didn't see too much of Dublin but at first observation it is definitely greener than London.

Around 4:00p.m., my manager and I headed to the airport to catch a plane to Amsterdam and then took a train to Rotterdam. While waiting for the train in Amsterdam, my manager reminded me about these really great waffles that have caramel in the middle. You put them over your tea and the steam makes them really soft. A client brought some for us last week and after having one, I had been eyeing the rest of them that week. So we found a store that sold Dutch goods and I started off buying 3 but apparently it was a 12 euro minimum on your debit card. I ended up with 6 packages of waffles and they weren't light either. Seriously, what am I going to do with 6 dozen pack waffles??? I guess I'll have to add it to the shortbread cookies from Belgium and the chocolate Sofia brought me from Russia. I have a whole international stash of goodies.

We arrived to Rotterdam around 10:00p.m. and had a late night dinner. I had a traditional Dutch dinner - Braised Beef and mashed potatoes. It was really good. Later our Director and another colleague joined us for drinks and we stayed up late talking about everything from work to music to the stages of leadership development. I really enjoyed the conversation.

Tuesday was the big day for me because we had several clients coming for a very important meeting. The office is really cool because it is an open concept with no assigned seating. In fact, they don't have cubes. Most offices in Europe don't have cubes. That took some getting used to for me the first few weeks I started working. I see the benefits. I am more likely to turn to my colleague and ask her something than if I were in a cube.

Going back to Rotterdam - Colleagues come into work and choose an available seat, kind of like a restaurant booth and they do their work. The environment felt so relaxed. Very modern and chic. The executives don't have offices. They have really nice conference rooms or booths for privacy and client meetings.

The meeting went well. Afterwards, we entertained our clients at a nearby hotel for drinks. It was really empowering to see that I was the only female among not only our clients but other business men at the bar.

We ended the evening by heading to the airport and debriefing on our meeting. I flew into a totally different airport - London City. Supposedly this is a really small airport, similar to what Midway used to be back in the day. What I thought should have been a short ride turned into an hour long taxi ride. I think that the London grid system is not as great as ours and driving definitely takes longer than taking the train. The good thing that came out of this is that I had a sense of where I was at and was able to put a "face" with the name of a town. When you travel by the tube, at least for me, I only know where it's dropping me off. You don't get a feel for how the towns are connected.

I really enjoyed my first business trip. I always learn something different about myself and it reinforces why I came to London.

2 months, 8 years

2009-12-03T15:53:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was my 2nd month anniversary since I moved to London. The time has flown by. It's too early to feel one way or another about London but I am definately enjoying it. I am still learning about the great things this city has to offer. I have my first official visitors coming at the end of the month and spending NYE with me. Mari doesn't count because I have a feeling this is going to be her second home.

Today is my 8 year anniversary with my company. It has afforded me to take various positions and grow within the company and it has brought me here to London. I can't complain. I've had great opportunities so far.

Monday, I am flying to Dublin for business and then I fly to Rotterdam for a meeting I am organizing. Two more countries to mark of the list. Three countries visited in a matter of a week. Life is definately good.

The London Underground System

2009-12-01T15:37:00.001-08:00

I really feel the need to blog about the London Underground system aka the Tube today. Monday was really hectic on the Northern Line coming back from the St Pancras/Eurostar train station. I wondered if I was going to get on the train with my carry on and shopping back full of chocolates and biscuits (cookies). I also wondered if my biscuits would be smashed by other passengers on the train.

Then today I came across this article in the paper today - http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23777648-tube-overcrowding-is-turning-londoners-into-selfish-animals.do

Before I start with the bad things about the Tube, I must say that I am completely in awe of how smooth the transit system works. I was a little intimidated by the Tube map and the various lines but Mari really broke me in the first week we were here. I kind of panicked when I left her at the Paddington station but I got back to my place with no problems. After that, I knew I could do it.

The Tube system is amazing. I can get to my destination fairly quickly. If one train doesn't go directly to the area I need to be at, I can easily connect to another line, and make yet another connection within 20-30 minutes. When there are events, people always give the nearest Tube stop to help with directions. I use www.tfl.gov with google maps to help me get to my destination. TFL is a very useful trip planning tool.

I always know when the next train is coming. There is a sign that tells me how many minutes until the next train and it's not only one train, it tells me the next 3-4 trains. I also know the current time. I always feel safe on the Tube no matter what time it is. (The Tube closes at 12:30a.m.) There are cameras everywhere and staff ready to help you. When you push the information button on the platform, you actually get a prompt answer back. It's not there for the purposes of being there. The train conductor tells you if there are signal problems or issues and apologies in the ever so charming English way. Way more than what you would get in Chicago on the CTA. Sometimes the bus will come, sometimes it won't or you'll have 3 buses to choose from at once.

However, during rush hour it's a different story. The Tube turns into a major nightmare. Going back the article above, it says that between 7-10 a.m. one of the major tube lines transports 60,000 people. My line - the Northern Line just so happens to be the oldest and most crowded lines in London.

Every morning, I feel like I am jumping into a big mosh pit. Here is a picture of what it's like to attempt and get on the train - http://www.flickr.com/photos/anniemole/2452500747/ I am not sure who's photo this is but my friend Jason advised that I should not try and take a picture. I guess I understand because of the bombings that occurred some time ago.

Sometimes, I can get on the Tube the first time. Other times, I have to wait for two to three trains or walk to the next station over where there are other connections so your odds are pretty good that you are going to get on as people connect to other lines. I have to deal with being shoved or someone trying to cut in front of me to ensure they get on the Tube.

Immediately upon getting on the train, I strip down to just my work clothes because it is so hot. Today it was one of the coldest days since I've been there. I started off by bundling up with my warmest scarf, a hat and gloves. By the time I got on the train, my gear was off and my coat was unbuttoned. Another article I read says that in the summer, the temperature levels are so bad, it exceeds European standards for cattle transport. Geez....I've heard this several times and laugh every time but seriously, I don't think I want to be on the Tube in the summer.

To distract myself, I listen to my iPod as I read someones paper over their shoulder. You notice everything about the neighbor right in front of your face....Like the man who missed a spot shaving, wondering how that girl does her makeup, the booger stuck in someone's nose. Luckily, I haven't bumped into too many smelly people. What grosses me out the most is when someone sneezes and then touches the rails. You can't help but worry about swine flu or other airborne diseases in such a confined place.

So what are the alternatives? Not too much. I have thought about cycling to work but London drivers are not very respectful of cyclists or pedestrians. I am sure one day on the Tube in the summer will drive me to chance the roads. Overall, I love the Tube system and I don't miss having a car. It feels good not to worry about car maintenance, insurance, designated drivers. I leave that up to my friends at the Tube. Cheers!

My Thanks Giving

2009-11-30T14:49:00.000-08:00

This year I spent Thanksgiving working most of the day. It really didn't feel like Thanksgiving nor did I have a Turkey dinner or sandwich. My colleague and I educated our colleagues on Black Wednesdays and Fridays, American football, and the Macy's day parade that is part of the American tradition. Thursday was the first day I actually looked online at the NBC5 website to catch up on Chicago happenings. It will be two months on Dec. 2nd since I've been here and I've been trying distance myself from Chicago happenings. I don't read Chicago newspapers and I delete most of the email blasts I receive about Chicago events. Not that I don't miss and love my friends and family. It just makes it difficult to start a new life in another country when your foot is still in another door.

After work, I headed to Belgium on the Eurostar. An hour and fifty minutes later, I was at the Midi-Du Nord train station headed to the bed and breakfast that I was sharing with my friend Sofia from Paris and my friend Vicky from Chicago. It was cool that we could reunite in Brussels for a weekend. I was a little shocked at first as the bed and breakfast was situated in an area known for prostitution. The owner, Carmelo assured us it was safe. And it really was....It just made for a more interesting trip.

On Friday morning, we headed to Bruge. It was a one hour train ride from Brussels. We were told we wouldn't need more than one day to see Bruge. Vicky was on a mission to go to the Frite museum. We learned how French fries were named as such when they came from Belgium. During the first World War, French speaking Belgium soliders offered an American solider some chips(fries) and the Americans assumed they were French thus the name was born....Leave it to the Americans...

At the end of the tour, we were treated to a batch of Belgium style frites with ketchup and mayonaise.

We finished off Bruge by walking around the stalls at the Christmas market and then heading back home.

In Brussels on Saturday, Sofia and I toured the city by bike. We signed up for a guided tour and braved the rain and cold. The first stop was the Manequin Pis (pronounced Piss). No one really knows the story around it but there are three tales. Here is the link to read more about the legends - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manneken_Pis They dress him up for special causes or holidays and we were even told he sometimes pees beer. This statue is really big in Brussels. They have fine Belgium chocolate molds made from this statue.

Towards the end of the ride, we got silly and started taking pictures while riding.

We had many other adventures including hanging out at the Christmas market and drinking hot beer, Jagermeister, eating Brats, the tranny prostitute making fun of Sofia's plastic raincoat in French, Delrium cafe, and the Sunday flea market.

Being in Europe for Thanksgiving wasn't so bad afterall. It makes me even more thankful for the opportunities that I have to explore the world and share my experiences. It was the perfect holiday.

City Break

2009-11-25T15:46:00.000-08:00

This weekend I am going on a city break to Brussels and Bruges. This is what Europeans call a short break to a city in Europe as opposed to the 2-3 week long holidays they typically take around Christmas and Summer.

My manager told me that when Europeans go on holiday, they really go all out. It is meant to be a getaway where you relax. They don't believe in taking a day here and there unless you actually go somewhere. Nice...

Fridays on the Tube are so easy because Europeans leave on Thursdays to make the most of their city break. Typically you can get on the Tube right away, perhaps get a seat and be within a comfortable distance of a fellow passenger without feeling they are invading your personal space. (I am saving these adventures for a later blog about my morning commute and the tube system).

Travel in Europe is so easy. That is what I had always been in awe of from the first time I went to Spain and part of what drove me to relocate.

This weekend I will be travelling on the Eurostar. It is a high speed train that gets you to Paris or Brussels in about two hours. The beauty of it is that you can board the train fairly easy. You don't have to go through as many hoops as you do in the airport. There's security and the Border patrol check but you don't have to take your shoes off. It is much more relaxed.

The Eurostar leaves you in the center of the city so you don't have to waste time and money travelling by train from a major airport. You don't have to check in your luggage because there are racks in every carriage for all size luggages. The best thing about the Eurostar is that if you buy your ticket way in advance, you can get a great deal. My ticket to Brussels cost me 109 pounds and I bought it pretty late. Usually I see fares for 29 each way.

I'm excited. I have never been to Brussels. I am also excited to meet up with my friend from Chicago and my friend from Paris so we'll definately have a great weekend.

I am travelling like a European. Now if I could only pack like one (or more efficiently)...I always seem to overpack. I know I am going to suffer as I lug it up and down the stairs and get on the Tube with my things but at least I'll have options.

A Taste of Chicago

2009-11-23T16:19:00.001-08:00

Last week I really started to crave Mexican food. My colleague went to Colorado and was really nice to ask, (especially the expats) if we wanted anything from the States...Boy did I have a list for her.

The first two weeks when I arrived I started a running list of the things that I noticed where not available in London (Neutrogena skin wash, Dove Cherry Blossom Body Wash, Miracle Whip Light, Sweet Baby Rays BBQ sauce, Q-tips) that I had come to love in Chicago...Number one being Mexican food and the ingredients to make it.

I did some research before my move on what items I should bring. It was recommended that take Maseca to make corn tortillas (haa..I can just imagine myself making homemade tortillas), chipotle peppers because they can get expensive if you find it here, and your spices. Well I never leave home without my Adobo and Sazon so I was sure to pack that with me. Somehow the chipotle slipped my mind in the midst of packing up my life in 4 suitcases but I did pretty good.

Anyway, back to my colleague....She returned with Miracle Whip and BBQ Sauce. I was definately grateful but I still did not have my chipotle for Mexican food. So from that point, I was on a misson to find ingredients. I googled Mexican food in London and found a little stand that sells chipotle, tortillas, pinto beans at the Borough Market - http://www.boroughmarket.org.uk/ The Borough Market is one of many fresh open markets throughout London. You could call it a Farmers Market. On the weekends, they are packed with the locals and tourists buying their fresh fruit and veg. They also have specialty stands that sell cheese, olives, homemade breads, empanadas, pastries, ready made curries or paella.

Over the course of Monday and Tuesday, I made my chicken using British chicken. Now I am not really sure what other chicken there would be in England but I think they feel the need to brand their chicken or meat as British. It's hilarious....I also made Mexican rice and beans. I took my time because usually it's a 2-3 hour ordeal, start to finish and I usually get home by 7:00p.m.

So here is my final assessment of the meal. The chicken is a lot flavorful here. I'm not sure what they do to their British chickens. ...So I think the freshness of the chicken made the dish really good. The chipotle in adobo sauce I bought was good but I tasted a little splash of vinegar in it which doesn't surprise me because the Brits use vinegar on many things. It was missing the deep smoky taste that I am used to buying but it was still really good. Mari sent me a can of Chicago chipotle with Vicky so I'll it soon enough.

I used long grain rice but I think the texture is different from the States. The rice wasn't bad but the grains were really big. I'll probably try a different type of rice. The torillas tasted better when I fried them into tostadas. I guess Chicago Mexican food will always be number one in my heart.

Overall it was a good meal and my friend Jason didn't get sick! :)

It Never Rains in....

2009-11-15T12:36:00.000-08:00

Honestly it doesn't rain too much in London. I was expecting to have rain every day, all day and that it would be gloomy. Since I've been here, the weather has been great with the exception of yesterday. The weatherman warned we would have of one of the worst rain and wind storms and he was right. I ran out early in the morning to go to the cash machine and on the way home got soaking wet....I mean really wet. My shoes are still drying out today. But today was beautiful...as if nothing happened the following day. I can't really tell you the actual temperature because I am still learning the conversions but it's pleasant compared to Chicago's standards and sunny.

Today I had my first proper afternoon tea at The Orangery in Kensington Gardens - http://maps.google.com/maps/place?sourceid=navclient&rlz=1T4GGLL_enUS316US316&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=the+orangery+london&fb=1&hq=the+orangery&hnear=london&cid=17365645029516330284

It was really nice. I met up with a fellow American Expat, Anna. She's the niece of my cousin's husband. We shared stories about livng and working in London and she gave me some good places to go for cupcakes, Thai food, Suishi and Korean food. Of course on the way there I got lost. I never seem to get to my destination on the first try. I walk usually walk too far or in the opposite direction or both. (Sound familiar Mari....) But I guess that's how you get to see other sites. Even though Mari and I walked by Kensington Gardens the first week I was here, I didn't realize that the Royal Albert Hall was right across the road from the park. See...a new place discovered from getting lost.

Shopping on the High Street

2009-11-13T16:06:00.000-08:00

As I unpacked my suitcases last weekend I realized that I really didn't have that many clothes. I guess I got wrapped up in purging my things which is a good thing. Just another reason for me to go shopping and there is plenty of it here. In London, they call the main avenues the High Street.

So on a few occasions this week, I went shopping on the High Street! I went down to Oxford Circus aka the Michigan Avenue of Chicago. Can you believe it, Christmas decorations were already up? The big theme this year is a Christmas Carol. Brits are very much into Christmas. And it is called the Christmas holiday. There is no Happy Holidays, Happy Kwanzaa or trying to be culturally correct. That was made very clear to me by my colleagues when I started working and was trying to sort out my Christmas holiday. When I arrived in October, the restaurants were already taking reservations for Christmas. I am already invited to a handful of Christmas parties and I've selected my dinner for our company party.

Anyway....I bought some quintessential London gear: Leggings, flat boots, a sweater dress, and a T-shirt dress. I already had the tights. I just need a cute rain coat, a few more pairs of boots in black and brown and ballet flats. When I walk to work, I put on my New Balance running shoes. They are comfortable as heck but not the most stylish.

Flat shoes are a must here. Sofia warned me but I still came with 10 pairs of high heeled shoes. Not happening here in London. I ended up using only 2 pair out of the house and for short distances. You walk everywhere so you have to be comfortable. Luckily, the London chicas sport some really cute low heeled boots and you can find them pretty easily in the shops. I'll have to post my new look soon.

Happy Hour

2009-11-10T12:24:00.000-08:00

A customary drink or two or three seems like the norm here. I often find myself IMing Vicky or Rosie saying that I have to go because it is the end of our day and my colleagues and I are having a drink after work. I'm not complaining but it's definitely something different here. A drink turns into 2 or 3 hours later and great conversation.

Today I went out with my manager and another colleague. I see the point in socializing over a drink after work. You get to know your colleagues on a different level and chat about work too.

I heard someone talking on the train about the difference between London and Paris. In Paris, you smell urine on every street. In London, you have to avoid the vomit. That was definitely the case when I visited Sofia in Paris and on Friday mornings in London, you have to watch where you walk along the pubs.

First Edition - Welcome to My Blog

2009-11-09T15:20:00.000-08:00

Welcome! I decided to chronicle my adventures of being an expat in London as a way for me to remember and look back on all the things that I will experience living abroad. I also love to journal so it only seemed natural to start a blog that I could share with my family and friends and the world...

So here's my story on how I got to London. It might be a little long. In April 2007, I had a major life change that made me realize that you only get one life to live and I need to live it doing the things that I've always wanted to do. I had always loved to travel and always said I wanted to live somewhere different...I just didn't think it would be in London.

Fast forward to the winter of 2008....I remember it as one of the coldest, worst winters in Chicago. It was so cold that my poor little Shih Tzu Stanley (you'll hear a lot about him) refused to walk a few steps out of the door. I started thinking....What would it be like to live somewhere warm. I approached my manager in the Spring and asked to be transferred to our LA office. She was receptive to it and I had planted the seed. Once I started to say something, it was as if I was daring myself to go through with it. I went to visit a friend in San Diego...not quite LA and it was freezing for being a warm place. Now I'm sure California is a nice place to live but it really didn't have the appeal I was looking for.

Then a few months later, I started managing projects in Europe and my colleague in London said, "Oh, if you were here, you'd be able to attend the kick-off meeting in Spain or Paris." I was jealous! He dared me. I thought how cool would it be to live in London and to have all the opportunities for travel at your disposal. When I graduated from college and could actually afford travelling to Europe, I fell in love with Southern Spain - Andalucia. I coupled my trip to Spain with meeting up with a different group of friends in Paris. It was amazing. I promised myself that every year I would start taking a trip to Europe or somewhere outside the US.

Back to 2008.....One of the final factors....My friend Erica and I co-chaired a woman's event. We were researching topics when she sent across an article by a woman executive. This article said that sometimes women need to go abroad for career growth and opportunities. After 7 years with my company, this would only add to my tenure there and overall career growth. There were definitely signs everywhere telling me I had to go and pursue this dream of mine.

In August 2008, I approached my manager and said, I'd like to go to London. This is the right move for me and I gave her the business case for it. She agreed there was a need and told me that she would do everything she could to help me get there.

After a few obstacles, I'm in London! Almost a year to the date that I approached my manager....It still feels surreal.

I arrived on October 2nd so I have plenty of stories to blog about for days! Stay tuned for my adventures in London!