Before I got here, I felt pretty star struck. I wondered where I would fit into this ‘capital of the world’ global centre. For me, it was the place where everything happens. It has all the good concerts, bands, free art museums, exciting politics, glorious public transport, pretty newspapers, and more bars (pubs, cafes, lounges, discos) than I could ever count. I suppose I was waiting to find out how the people would be, and where I would fit in. I did not think I would be ‘fabulous’ enough. What a joke, this city is not fabulous in that glittery way, it’s so much better than that cheap garbage.
I think I feel so comfortable here because I am in the political/working district with a purpose. I too am wearing heels, and need to be arrive on time. And at 6:00, walking back to my flat, like all the other residents of the area: I just want to get home, put my feet up, watch the Simpson’s and eat some expensive Ramen (ok, maybe not that last one). There area I live in is pretty residential, it’s a good example of what it would be like to live here. When I am taking the tube to class, I occasionally crack open my book to cram. I work, I study, I cook, I travel, and live here.
I was talking with my roomie last night, and well, I think we fit in quite well. It’s amazing how quickly it can feel like home. How easily it is to get around. And while sometimes everything can feel foreign, like when I have to figure out how to get somewhere new, it’s strangely comforting. It’s such a massive city that drawing a map of where my destination is, or figuring out a new tube route is the norm.
I really do feel like a Londoner in some ways. And yes, I’ve only been here two months, and this is not in efforts to be like one of those students who goes to a country almost half a year and says their life forever changed. Why? Because I think, in some ways everything you do changes your life. From travelling across the world to forgetting to brush your teeth, it all is significant.
Annamarie, Peter, and Alec are coming to visit. I was feeling very sad that when they come, they also have to leave. I guess that means, so do I. Can I stay here, just a little longer?
46 days left. Scary as hell.