One down, two to go. That’s about all I can say regarding school at this moment, as I am too excited about spring to worry about anything else! Last week I spent a large portion of my time with books open on the second floor of the Starbuck’s on the Royal Mile. I tried to study in the Library, but the internet is a bit addictive. I also tried to read and review outside in the gorgeous sunshine, but as some may know, I get quite easily distracted. Although a large portion of my cash went into lattes, muffins, and macchiatos, the investment seemed well worth it. We will know for sure once my results come back.
As a way to relax after my first stressful exam, and as part of my tradition, I made my monthly visit to storytelling on Friday night. It is comforting when I recognize many names and faces at the monthly gathering, and I feel that I have been a part of the club long before my arrival in January. Had I not sat through an exam during the afternoon, I may have had the courage to tell a story myself. Unfortunately, as the semester is quickly coming to an end, I realize that I have only one night of storytelling left before I return to the U.S. Maybe then, as part of a closure to my time in Edinburgh, I may decide to become a storyteller for one night only, in dear Scotland.
Actually, earlier last week, I was asked to sing at a pub with traditional Scottish folk tunes. Had I actually known any tunes by heart, I would have “performed” at the little pub down the street, but I could only think of nursery rhymes and mass choir pieces at the time. Singing along (or by myself) at the pub will be another goal of mine – something to accomplish before my feet leave the Scottish soil (actually peat to be exact).
The streets of Edinburgh were hopping on Saturday, so much that I made myself run pointless errands just to experience the lively atmosphere. Although disappointed that many of the individuals strolling on the streets were tourists (those dang tourists), I felt as if the city was actually alive with happiness (must be the spring). In the afternoon my flatmates and I joined a BBQ with the residential area in which I live. I suppose I had a great time interacting with all of my fellow students, but the highlight of the event was eating a delicious and freshly grilled cheeseburger 🙂 I did enjoy chatting with people which I haven’t had contact with since before Easter, although it was also somewhat bittersweet. I will be in Scotland with my family through the end of June, but many students will be leaving directly after their exams — many of them departing within the next two weeks.
As part of a welcoming celebration for spring, I attended a Beltane Fire Festival on Saturday night (a way to welcome May into the year). Not thinking much of the event, my flatmate and I wandered down to Calton Hill at the end of Princes Street, only to find about 1000 other individuals doing the same. Once on top of the hill, we were surrounded with beautiful drums, costumes, creations, outfits, plays/performances, and best of all, fire (no worries – the flames were controlled throughout the evening). The fire offered an amazing contrast to the black sky, and was actually our only source of light for the entire event. The festival was something that I would never participate in (I don’t trust myself with flames), but I loved every second of it.
Sunday was filled with pouring rain, and amazing Chinese food. In December I would never have guessed that an all-you-can-eat (western) Chinese buffet would sound appealing, but I can honestly say it has been a tremendous source of joy and happiness — and full stomachs. I felt no need to eat for the rest of the day . . . I tried to get back on a fruits & veggies meal plan right after my deep-fried Mars bar early last week, but I am having a bit of trouble sticking to the plan while surrounded by Scotland’s “recipe for a heart attack.” I’ll be good once I get back to Minnesota, but until then . . . hee hee hee.
The next two weeks will be spent wrapping up my academic life at the University of Edinburgh. With two exams to look forward to, I will balance studying with packing and preparing for my first legitimate visitor from home. It has been very difficult to get back into the academic mode after being away from classes for so long, but I only need to do it for two more weeks. Next Friday (after my last exam), one can find me either jumping for joy throughout the streets of Edinburgh, or taking a nap. Either or, I will be very excited to actually finish with my class requirements for the semester.
And, I believe I will still have plenty to keep me busy after the completion of my exams. First and foremost, I have a list of my favorite places that I need to visit at least once more before my departure – which might take me awhile to get through. Then, while saying farewell to friends, I have to come up with a method of getting my things back to Minnesota. With that and appreciating springtime in Edinburgh, I doubt I will have time to get bored.
Until the time when I get to dig out my suitcase from under my bed, I will try to study (heh – no promises though). Two weeks to study for two exams . . . I should be ok, but wish me luck!!
Cheers!