UPDATE:
Just when I thought my trip was winding down, and I'm getting ready for home and work. BMI Airlines lost my luggage. To add to the matter, I was only able to take my camera with me as a carry on, and I don't have my flight e-ticket with me. :O
I'll keep you posted.
hk
Monday, September 18, 2006
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Day 13, 14, 15: Paris
I like start off by thanking everyone of for their support, God opened His arms and really just surounded and protected me, and one true verse that came out to me is that he allows me to endure only what I can handle. I truly felt blessed to have such great friends at home sharing life with me.
So yes, thanks everyone in Toronto. BTW, i haven't been able to shop or find anything worth buying... Ames, I think you know be best in vacation, I just can't make up my mind to spend money in something I'm not sure about.
So here's a summary of the past few days.
The 13th day, from Salzburg to Paris was one of the most difficult days on my trip. I was feeling crappy, and i was having difficultly walking as kids, friends and family... I've learned yet another VERY important lesson... eat your veggies, get your rest, and don't push yourself too hard.... because sitting and walking has become increasing difficult due to this new developed "injury". So during the day, the trip felt really long, and I didn't do much in Salzburg. I found a place that had some good old comfort food, eggs and ham, and then took off for Paris.
Along the entire way, it was very difficult to find liquids, washrooms, and worst yet, pharmacy, as I wanted to get some medicine to help with the injury caused by me not taking good care of myself.
So by 7 or 8 I was in Paris, and man, trip from the Airport was my hostel was also heck. I kept walking and trying to find a pharmacy, only each time to walk and find different places that didn't exist or was close. Increasingly, I felt as if this was something that was really going to push me to test my patient as I was wearing thin. Yeah, not to mention, FRED, this Montmartre was a bad neiborough at night. Me being not very mobile, with a heavy pack, and in a foregin area, I really depened on God's grace to guide me. And as he did, did my reliance on him grew.
So the next day, iw as totally unsure if i was going to be in any mood to get out. However, the travisty of the hostel s terrifying. Tolets with no sink, shower with out a working drain. It was a nightmare almost, and not to mentiona 2am curfew. So I ended up going to bed at 10, and waking up the next morning somewhat refresh. God didn't answer my prayer that day by healing me of my wounds, but he made it livable, and life was getting much better as I was beginning to feel excited about being in Paris.
Day 14:
As I made my walk down towards Norte Dame, I decided to go tot he Louve instead remembering the long line ups. Was appauld how amazing the view was, and even paid to go in. But it just wasn't the same without Trudy, she's definitely the first person I'll call if I ever decided to look at renesance art. Dinner included for her time and trouble ;)
But yes, I did get to make some obervation in the art work, and I didn't like how artist are all mixed up in a room, very difficult to try and understand what was going on. And the worst was that there were no one to ask question or make dumb comments, and every sign was in French.
So off to Norte Dame, and saw some nice crowed lines. So i didn't go in, but had a nice wonderfully made crepe with Nutella... it was good!
Then off to the Arc du Trimph, where I met this tall German, Constantin, he spoke English well, and we ended up hanging out for most of the day afterwards, and even hung out the next day. It was nice how God provided a male friend along the trip instead of female friends, I was starting to think that I subconsciencely looked for girls to be friends.
Anyway, Day 2 in paris was great, ended off the day looking at the Elife Tower looking at the night sky. Beautiful. I'll update this later. Got to go
So yes, thanks everyone in Toronto. BTW, i haven't been able to shop or find anything worth buying... Ames, I think you know be best in vacation, I just can't make up my mind to spend money in something I'm not sure about.
So here's a summary of the past few days.
The 13th day, from Salzburg to Paris was one of the most difficult days on my trip. I was feeling crappy, and i was having difficultly walking as kids, friends and family... I've learned yet another VERY important lesson... eat your veggies, get your rest, and don't push yourself too hard.... because sitting and walking has become increasing difficult due to this new developed "injury". So during the day, the trip felt really long, and I didn't do much in Salzburg. I found a place that had some good old comfort food, eggs and ham, and then took off for Paris.
Along the entire way, it was very difficult to find liquids, washrooms, and worst yet, pharmacy, as I wanted to get some medicine to help with the injury caused by me not taking good care of myself.
So by 7 or 8 I was in Paris, and man, trip from the Airport was my hostel was also heck. I kept walking and trying to find a pharmacy, only each time to walk and find different places that didn't exist or was close. Increasingly, I felt as if this was something that was really going to push me to test my patient as I was wearing thin. Yeah, not to mention, FRED, this Montmartre was a bad neiborough at night. Me being not very mobile, with a heavy pack, and in a foregin area, I really depened on God's grace to guide me. And as he did, did my reliance on him grew.
So the next day, iw as totally unsure if i was going to be in any mood to get out. However, the travisty of the hostel s terrifying. Tolets with no sink, shower with out a working drain. It was a nightmare almost, and not to mentiona 2am curfew. So I ended up going to bed at 10, and waking up the next morning somewhat refresh. God didn't answer my prayer that day by healing me of my wounds, but he made it livable, and life was getting much better as I was beginning to feel excited about being in Paris.
Day 14:
As I made my walk down towards Norte Dame, I decided to go tot he Louve instead remembering the long line ups. Was appauld how amazing the view was, and even paid to go in. But it just wasn't the same without Trudy, she's definitely the first person I'll call if I ever decided to look at renesance art. Dinner included for her time and trouble ;)
But yes, I did get to make some obervation in the art work, and I didn't like how artist are all mixed up in a room, very difficult to try and understand what was going on. And the worst was that there were no one to ask question or make dumb comments, and every sign was in French.
So off to Norte Dame, and saw some nice crowed lines. So i didn't go in, but had a nice wonderfully made crepe with Nutella... it was good!
Then off to the Arc du Trimph, where I met this tall German, Constantin, he spoke English well, and we ended up hanging out for most of the day afterwards, and even hung out the next day. It was nice how God provided a male friend along the trip instead of female friends, I was starting to think that I subconsciencely looked for girls to be friends.
Anyway, Day 2 in paris was great, ended off the day looking at the Elife Tower looking at the night sky. Beautiful. I'll update this later. Got to go
Friday, September 15, 2006
Day 9, 10, and 11: Salzburg, Munich, Salzburg
Wow, I feel like I haven't had a chance to update my blog in a while. Partly because i've started, but didn't finish, but the other half of it is that i'm feeling a bit under the weather... :( Wish there was a way i can easily get better. It's hard when u don't have a bed and such.
Anyway, i'm still alive, and things are okay... feeling sick :( Andrea, should of bought lotion, chap lips :(
Umm... what else.... should of bought some vitimen pill or something... and yeah, well, i got to catch a bus, so time to go... but i'll update this when i get a chance, and i'll finish day 8's entry too.
Anyway, i'm still alive, and things are okay... feeling sick :( Andrea, should of bought lotion, chap lips :(
Umm... what else.... should of bought some vitimen pill or something... and yeah, well, i got to catch a bus, so time to go... but i'll update this when i get a chance, and i'll finish day 8's entry too.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Day 7: Prague
Prague's been a much better experience today. Now that I know where to look for street signs... don't have these close encounters where I feel as if I'm going to be mugged. I really enjoy my walk around today. Less pain in the shin as well :D
Anyway, it's quite beautiful here, and I don't know whether its because I'm not use to the culture here, but I find it difficult to meet Czechs here, maybe it's the lanuage.
Well, got to check out the church building ministry today.... it was kinda nice to see and be able to Worship even in a different lanuage, as I felt comfortable and at home. I didn't understand a word that was said. But I guess God allowed me to be renewed and recharge from it... even tho i think I dose off during service.
I also got to go to the Czech Symphony tonight.... it was in the Mulciple House in Prague. The place is absolute breath taking. I loved it... it was all strings except for a piano looking thing. And they did Vladi's Four Season, and Mozart's ... don't remember the name of Mozart's piece. But I remember the Four Seasons well.. oh, and the guy kept coming back for encores, for like half an hour to 45 mintues. The very last piece is this one from an Italian Opera, umm... it's the one with the Tropacana Orange Juice commerical.. one of the older ones, where straws try to punture into an orange... it's the one where they are dancing around.... Anyway, it's call Pominito? i don't remember, i remember Amy telling me once.... but yeah... it was kinda nice cause it's the only piece of opera music that ever stuck in my head.
After that, I got ot check out some nice Jazz, at the U Jazz Lounge. I think it's actually call the USP Jazz Lounge. It was a 200 Kc cover, but it was quite good. I was all alone, but it was well worth it. It was a quadtet playing, and i found myself kinda just grooving to the music. Very nice.
So next, i went for some nite walk arond the old town of Prague. Absolutely beautiful, and definitely mande me wish someone was here to enjoy it with me. I also wish I was in a relationship too as it was just so picture perfect romantic. Weather was absolutely perfect, not too hot, nor cold. People were all walking hand in hand, i think almost all were couples. Some kids hanging out too, but they were harmless. Every so often there would be cleaning crew to make sure the bridge was clean. However, my highlight was being completely un-rushed to take some most amazing night shots of the Prague castle, Charles bridge, and the National Theater. The shots were absolutely beautiful. My personal favorite is a statue of St. Augustine on the Charlies bridge. It wasn't lit at all, and i was able to get a beautiful shot. :D
Will post later.
Anyway, time to go, early ride tomorrow, so it's time for bed. But so far, haven't met anyone really up to day 7. Will update you on day 8 in Prague when i get to Vienna.
Anyway, it's quite beautiful here, and I don't know whether its because I'm not use to the culture here, but I find it difficult to meet Czechs here, maybe it's the lanuage.
Well, got to check out the church building ministry today.... it was kinda nice to see and be able to Worship even in a different lanuage, as I felt comfortable and at home. I didn't understand a word that was said. But I guess God allowed me to be renewed and recharge from it... even tho i think I dose off during service.
I also got to go to the Czech Symphony tonight.... it was in the Mulciple House in Prague. The place is absolute breath taking. I loved it... it was all strings except for a piano looking thing. And they did Vladi's Four Season, and Mozart's ... don't remember the name of Mozart's piece. But I remember the Four Seasons well.. oh, and the guy kept coming back for encores, for like half an hour to 45 mintues. The very last piece is this one from an Italian Opera, umm... it's the one with the Tropacana Orange Juice commerical.. one of the older ones, where straws try to punture into an orange... it's the one where they are dancing around.... Anyway, it's call Pominito? i don't remember, i remember Amy telling me once.... but yeah... it was kinda nice cause it's the only piece of opera music that ever stuck in my head.
After that, I got ot check out some nice Jazz, at the U Jazz Lounge. I think it's actually call the USP Jazz Lounge. It was a 200 Kc cover, but it was quite good. I was all alone, but it was well worth it. It was a quadtet playing, and i found myself kinda just grooving to the music. Very nice.
So next, i went for some nite walk arond the old town of Prague. Absolutely beautiful, and definitely mande me wish someone was here to enjoy it with me. I also wish I was in a relationship too as it was just so picture perfect romantic. Weather was absolutely perfect, not too hot, nor cold. People were all walking hand in hand, i think almost all were couples. Some kids hanging out too, but they were harmless. Every so often there would be cleaning crew to make sure the bridge was clean. However, my highlight was being completely un-rushed to take some most amazing night shots of the Prague castle, Charles bridge, and the National Theater. The shots were absolutely beautiful. My personal favorite is a statue of St. Augustine on the Charlies bridge. It wasn't lit at all, and i was able to get a beautiful shot. :D
Will post later.
Anyway, time to go, early ride tomorrow, so it's time for bed. But so far, haven't met anyone really up to day 7. Will update you on day 8 in Prague when i get to Vienna.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Day 6: Prague
Okay, I first need to start off by saying that I was a reck on Day 6. I couldn't pack properly since there were people sleeping in the room since 8pm that night. And I was hoping to get everything packed before I leave cause my flight was at 6:20am!
That didn't happen, and i try to be as soft and quiet as i could for packing, but it ended up i couldn't get everything done until 3am. OH right, the computer at the hostel was also crapping out on me as I keep trying to back up my photos for the past two days, but nope, it wouldn't have any of it :( So i spent 4 pounds to work on it cause i couldn't give up on it, its in my personality. Anyway, with the 4 pounds, i figured out how to hack into the system without paying :D and i also FINALLY put the pictures on the CD. WHO DA MAN! well, i think i might of lost since i didn't get any sleep. Anyway, i walked to the bus stop at 4am and i was beat. Not to mention this "chin splint" feeling i've been getting :( really hurts. Anyway, got to the station, and onto the Airport. But here's where things take a turn.
~~~~~~~~~ story begins~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Are you the kind of person that prefers short check in rather than the painful long wait of Air Canada, or Air Transit? Or even self check in for that matter. Are you also the type that prefers metallic cuttery over plastic knifes and forks? How about dishes, do you prefer designer porcelin over injection moulded plastic trays. If you answer yes to any of these three questions, then you must at least ONCE, fly British Airways. They totally took care of me an pamper me. My check in was 5 minutes. Security still sucked, but not BA's fault as security are high and long these days.
Got onto the plane, and guess what, i have like 5 inches from my knee to the next seat! WHAO, and so much room! and leather seats. This was luxery. Adjsutable head rest, and just all in all, felt like the the pilot was in total control the whole time. My connecting flight was also amazing. Bumped up to the "curtain class" i dont' remember. But man, the food was as good as i've had all trip. Great fish fillet, METAL cuttery, brand name oak crackers with real cheeze. Man, it was amazing. And i didn't have to even ask for anything, as soon as I got up, the flight attendent lady came and asked me what i want. I seriously felt like a million bucks. Furthermore, the scenery was beautiful. When the pilot announced we will be at our destination in 40 minutes, i was kinda upset. I wanted more pampering! I am soooo yuppers :(
Anyway, got to Prague, and I must say, it hasn't hit me yet. I haven't found the great attaction about this city yet. The signs don't make sense, and the people here have more often be rude than helpful. So yeah, no street signs, and no one that actually tells u the right direciton, i got lost :( i went where they told me, like 5 times, and it always got me to a different area! i was ike. forget this. Worst of all, it took me thru some quiet not well lit streets. I was actually scared. But then all of a sudden you would end up in this beautiful opera house or national museum. But yeah, definitely need to wait until morning. The bus system also suck here, as u need to buy tickets before getting into a bus or tram or what ever. But the one good thing here, it's MUCH CHEAPER :D i had a wonderful chicken pasta meal with brocolli wand ice tea that caused me 7 canadian dollars :D hahahahah YES! Man, it brings back memories of Waterloo when i had the dish. Tasted almost as good as the ones Amy use to make in Waterloo, Chicken breast dice, witch pasta and brocolli in cream sauce. Weird how that triggered my memory. Anyway, Tomorrow I will be checking out a chruch of this guy that is a missionary here. I met him when i was at the Queensway Catherdal when Erwin McManus was speaking. I hope this helps me in my direction of picking a place to serve in the near future. Anyway, time for bed, typed so much. And I need to do some reading :D so until next time.
That didn't happen, and i try to be as soft and quiet as i could for packing, but it ended up i couldn't get everything done until 3am. OH right, the computer at the hostel was also crapping out on me as I keep trying to back up my photos for the past two days, but nope, it wouldn't have any of it :( So i spent 4 pounds to work on it cause i couldn't give up on it, its in my personality. Anyway, with the 4 pounds, i figured out how to hack into the system without paying :D and i also FINALLY put the pictures on the CD. WHO DA MAN! well, i think i might of lost since i didn't get any sleep. Anyway, i walked to the bus stop at 4am and i was beat. Not to mention this "chin splint" feeling i've been getting :( really hurts. Anyway, got to the station, and onto the Airport. But here's where things take a turn.
~~~~~~~~~ story begins~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Are you the kind of person that prefers short check in rather than the painful long wait of Air Canada, or Air Transit? Or even self check in for that matter. Are you also the type that prefers metallic cuttery over plastic knifes and forks? How about dishes, do you prefer designer porcelin over injection moulded plastic trays. If you answer yes to any of these three questions, then you must at least ONCE, fly British Airways. They totally took care of me an pamper me. My check in was 5 minutes. Security still sucked, but not BA's fault as security are high and long these days.
Got onto the plane, and guess what, i have like 5 inches from my knee to the next seat! WHAO, and so much room! and leather seats. This was luxery. Adjsutable head rest, and just all in all, felt like the the pilot was in total control the whole time. My connecting flight was also amazing. Bumped up to the "curtain class" i dont' remember. But man, the food was as good as i've had all trip. Great fish fillet, METAL cuttery, brand name oak crackers with real cheeze. Man, it was amazing. And i didn't have to even ask for anything, as soon as I got up, the flight attendent lady came and asked me what i want. I seriously felt like a million bucks. Furthermore, the scenery was beautiful. When the pilot announced we will be at our destination in 40 minutes, i was kinda upset. I wanted more pampering! I am soooo yuppers :(
Anyway, got to Prague, and I must say, it hasn't hit me yet. I haven't found the great attaction about this city yet. The signs don't make sense, and the people here have more often be rude than helpful. So yeah, no street signs, and no one that actually tells u the right direciton, i got lost :( i went where they told me, like 5 times, and it always got me to a different area! i was ike. forget this. Worst of all, it took me thru some quiet not well lit streets. I was actually scared. But then all of a sudden you would end up in this beautiful opera house or national museum. But yeah, definitely need to wait until morning. The bus system also suck here, as u need to buy tickets before getting into a bus or tram or what ever. But the one good thing here, it's MUCH CHEAPER :D i had a wonderful chicken pasta meal with brocolli wand ice tea that caused me 7 canadian dollars :D hahahahah YES! Man, it brings back memories of Waterloo when i had the dish. Tasted almost as good as the ones Amy use to make in Waterloo, Chicken breast dice, witch pasta and brocolli in cream sauce. Weird how that triggered my memory. Anyway, Tomorrow I will be checking out a chruch of this guy that is a missionary here. I met him when i was at the Queensway Catherdal when Erwin McManus was speaking. I hope this helps me in my direction of picking a place to serve in the near future. Anyway, time for bed, typed so much. And I need to do some reading :D so until next time.
Day 4 and 5: Edinburgh
So it's been pretty amazing, My time in Edinburgh is over, but the shear amount of people that I've met which I have gotten along with has been significant in 3 days. I was able to see many new things, and the great thing about Edinburgh and even London is that its easy to feel like home, as everyone speaks English, and I feel like I am understood.
So interesting things? Well, I was able to go up to Calton Hill to get some morning and evening photos, I'll have to post them up for everyone later, as there is no USB connection here :( But its amazing how God provided, I met this guy, a local there who was doing photography, but never came out to find a good spot for photos. Anyway, I found this pretty good spot, and we jump the fence to take some shots. The amazing thing is that he had his nice and sterdy tripod, and you'll see later when i post the picture why i needed it. But the shot (imho) turned out great. Anyway, with that, another thing i feel like i've done that i really enjoyed.
Next... actually, before that, I was trying to look for this ancient muscial instrument building within the Edinburgh University. Well, I couldn't find it, but I ended up meeting this girl from China studying there. We had a great chat, and she try to help me find the building. But as it turns out, it was close, and only open for two hours on Wed and Sat. Weird.... anyway, we exchange numbers, and we ended up going out the next day to just chill as well show me around town. Again, a wonderful suprise.
Oh, while we are back tracking, the night before, on day 4, I went clubing with other hostel friends. It was great, the clubs here all have wonderful ambience as it's taking old 1800 or 1900 buildings converted. But this one was a bit sac-religious since it use to be a church :( Anyway, i was just starting to have a good time as I was a little tense at first since there was this girl from the hostel that started dancing pretty close to me *wink wink*. Well i didn't know what to do, i was half being a guy and half being who I really am. So times i was dancing "close" while other times trying to keep away. But anwyay, kinda broke away, and then just started chatting and eventually dancing with this other girl we met earlier at a bar. I know, shady. But she seem pretty good when we met her and her friends. Since music was too loud, ended up just dancing, but the good thing was, i just let myself came thru i think, and I just do what i do in TO, and not worry about it. And later, it turns out that was exactly what i was looking for. To have a good time the way i do in TO. Not to live an alternate reality. Anyway, see was so happy too, she was like, this is so fun, never dance with anyone like you before. And blah blah blah. Anyway, we chatted somemore, and so on, i think as the night the alcohol added up in her, and she was ummm... i dont' know, not the same. So here's the kicker. I went to check on my jacket in the club, and it was gone. I was so disappointed. I try looking for it, but no success... it was my fleece that i wear for snowboarding. I was no a happy camper, i ended up going back to the hostel cause i was upset. But yeah, i also was fortuntely enough to take care some of the people that were in the hostels since they were all pretty tanked. But yeah, had a great time, except the JACKET.
Little did I know how much this affected me, losing the jacket really sucked. Made me feel lik i needed to find a subsitute and etc. But it wasn't going to be easy since I wanted a perfect one, small, warm, wind breaking, yet breathable, and of cause stylish too. MAN, it was a bad night. Anyway, prayed, and just say, it's a material thing, and that if i don't get it back, then i don't need it. It was a struggle to give it to God the next day as it was on my mind, but by 4 pm, I was able to go back to the club and find it. It really seem like a mircle to me as there never seem to be returned items. Anyway, i'm just really happy and glad. I was so excited.
So as day 5 goes, I'll just highlight some key points. Learn how to embrace or greet here in Europe, so Fred, did that who cheeck to cheeck thing, no "alright love" yet tho. But yeah, it was really werid, i thought we were just going for a hug, but she turned her cheeck, so i was like ahh... (yes, i'm sure u can all imagine me doing something weird like this :D) So the next time, i was asking, how does this work and so on and so on, and i think i kinda figured it out. Like a hug, but not fully hug, just before the "hug", u just turn cheecks to great. It was so funny. :D
The other was getting to go to dinner with this girl i met at the Edinburgh University, Vivian. That was kind of nice, just to hear more about the city, and about her background. The amazing thing is that God totally allowed the conversation to be about him at times, and I felt so alive because of that. So I can't wait to be put into more useful situations for his purpose.
Anyway, traded a bunch of numbers and contacts. I couldn't of asked for a better group of random ppl to meet then whom i met at Edinbugh. But then again, not really random since God put that together. Anyway, i'll write something short for today in my next entry. Be back in a sec.
So interesting things? Well, I was able to go up to Calton Hill to get some morning and evening photos, I'll have to post them up for everyone later, as there is no USB connection here :( But its amazing how God provided, I met this guy, a local there who was doing photography, but never came out to find a good spot for photos. Anyway, I found this pretty good spot, and we jump the fence to take some shots. The amazing thing is that he had his nice and sterdy tripod, and you'll see later when i post the picture why i needed it. But the shot (imho) turned out great. Anyway, with that, another thing i feel like i've done that i really enjoyed.
Next... actually, before that, I was trying to look for this ancient muscial instrument building within the Edinburgh University. Well, I couldn't find it, but I ended up meeting this girl from China studying there. We had a great chat, and she try to help me find the building. But as it turns out, it was close, and only open for two hours on Wed and Sat. Weird.... anyway, we exchange numbers, and we ended up going out the next day to just chill as well show me around town. Again, a wonderful suprise.
Oh, while we are back tracking, the night before, on day 4, I went clubing with other hostel friends. It was great, the clubs here all have wonderful ambience as it's taking old 1800 or 1900 buildings converted. But this one was a bit sac-religious since it use to be a church :( Anyway, i was just starting to have a good time as I was a little tense at first since there was this girl from the hostel that started dancing pretty close to me *wink wink*. Well i didn't know what to do, i was half being a guy and half being who I really am. So times i was dancing "close" while other times trying to keep away. But anwyay, kinda broke away, and then just started chatting and eventually dancing with this other girl we met earlier at a bar. I know, shady. But she seem pretty good when we met her and her friends. Since music was too loud, ended up just dancing, but the good thing was, i just let myself came thru i think, and I just do what i do in TO, and not worry about it. And later, it turns out that was exactly what i was looking for. To have a good time the way i do in TO. Not to live an alternate reality. Anyway, see was so happy too, she was like, this is so fun, never dance with anyone like you before. And blah blah blah. Anyway, we chatted somemore, and so on, i think as the night the alcohol added up in her, and she was ummm... i dont' know, not the same. So here's the kicker. I went to check on my jacket in the club, and it was gone. I was so disappointed. I try looking for it, but no success... it was my fleece that i wear for snowboarding. I was no a happy camper, i ended up going back to the hostel cause i was upset. But yeah, i also was fortuntely enough to take care some of the people that were in the hostels since they were all pretty tanked. But yeah, had a great time, except the JACKET.
Little did I know how much this affected me, losing the jacket really sucked. Made me feel lik i needed to find a subsitute and etc. But it wasn't going to be easy since I wanted a perfect one, small, warm, wind breaking, yet breathable, and of cause stylish too. MAN, it was a bad night. Anyway, prayed, and just say, it's a material thing, and that if i don't get it back, then i don't need it. It was a struggle to give it to God the next day as it was on my mind, but by 4 pm, I was able to go back to the club and find it. It really seem like a mircle to me as there never seem to be returned items. Anyway, i'm just really happy and glad. I was so excited.
So as day 5 goes, I'll just highlight some key points. Learn how to embrace or greet here in Europe, so Fred, did that who cheeck to cheeck thing, no "alright love" yet tho. But yeah, it was really werid, i thought we were just going for a hug, but she turned her cheeck, so i was like ahh... (yes, i'm sure u can all imagine me doing something weird like this :D) So the next time, i was asking, how does this work and so on and so on, and i think i kinda figured it out. Like a hug, but not fully hug, just before the "hug", u just turn cheecks to great. It was so funny. :D
The other was getting to go to dinner with this girl i met at the Edinburgh University, Vivian. That was kind of nice, just to hear more about the city, and about her background. The amazing thing is that God totally allowed the conversation to be about him at times, and I felt so alive because of that. So I can't wait to be put into more useful situations for his purpose.
Anyway, traded a bunch of numbers and contacts. I couldn't of asked for a better group of random ppl to meet then whom i met at Edinbugh. But then again, not really random since God put that together. Anyway, i'll write something short for today in my next entry. Be back in a sec.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Day 3: Edinbrugh
Good start to the day, as both Annie and Bryan woke up to see me off. It's somehting that's not necessary, but it definitely made me feel appreciated, and that I'm a guest of theirs. Something to take note of for next time.
Anyway, took the 7am train to Gatwick, and it took like an hour! but it was good, met this football player, I believe his name was Matthew, and that he was going to play for the Army or Navy team? This guy looked like he can play tho :D
Anyway, on to Gatwick, definitely one of the most through and diligient airports. I'll give them that, but it made my entire trip took nearly 4 hours, kinda made me kinda want to take the train instead which I had the option of doing last night since Annie found a ticket that takes me from Euston to Glasglow :D But yeah, dealing with annoying, impatient, and stupid people made it difficult for me especially the long lines at Gatwick.
So I landed in Edinburgh at about 11:30, and got on to the buss at about 12. I checked in at my very first hostel. Very impressed, nice place. Thanks Fred. So I took my first hike to Aruthur's Seat. Amazing view, I wish I can capture it better, but the 30 minute hike was definitely worth my time. And I got to see how people paint, drew, and just hiked with their dogs and kids. When I got to the top, I thought the place should of been called Windy Point. The wind was nearly non stop, and it was like a Tycoon. I felt like I was being blown off the peak. Anyway, I'll post pictures when I have a chance.
My experince here so far has been great, people here are generally nice, and I've met another UW grad. Then I also met a bunch of other Canadians. It's been a totally nice experience. The city, is absolutely beautiful, Princess St., Royal Mile, and etc, walking through the town is inspiring, just seeing the history, and the beautiful archertech. But one of the best part was being able to walk down to Tesco because I forgot my bathroom supplies, and through the supermarket and lining up in the wrong line.
But the one thing that I want to say before my time runs out here, is that I've truly began to understand just a little bit what it means to make friends, or be a friend. Caring for one another, is more than making conversation... that is the beginning, and I think I always felt out after that because I didnt' know where to go afterwards. Anyway times otu, ttyl.-
Anyway, took the 7am train to Gatwick, and it took like an hour! but it was good, met this football player, I believe his name was Matthew, and that he was going to play for the Army or Navy team? This guy looked like he can play tho :D
Anyway, on to Gatwick, definitely one of the most through and diligient airports. I'll give them that, but it made my entire trip took nearly 4 hours, kinda made me kinda want to take the train instead which I had the option of doing last night since Annie found a ticket that takes me from Euston to Glasglow :D But yeah, dealing with annoying, impatient, and stupid people made it difficult for me especially the long lines at Gatwick.
So I landed in Edinburgh at about 11:30, and got on to the buss at about 12. I checked in at my very first hostel. Very impressed, nice place. Thanks Fred. So I took my first hike to Aruthur's Seat. Amazing view, I wish I can capture it better, but the 30 minute hike was definitely worth my time. And I got to see how people paint, drew, and just hiked with their dogs and kids. When I got to the top, I thought the place should of been called Windy Point. The wind was nearly non stop, and it was like a Tycoon. I felt like I was being blown off the peak. Anyway, I'll post pictures when I have a chance.
My experince here so far has been great, people here are generally nice, and I've met another UW grad. Then I also met a bunch of other Canadians. It's been a totally nice experience. The city, is absolutely beautiful, Princess St., Royal Mile, and etc, walking through the town is inspiring, just seeing the history, and the beautiful archertech. But one of the best part was being able to walk down to Tesco because I forgot my bathroom supplies, and through the supermarket and lining up in the wrong line.
But the one thing that I want to say before my time runs out here, is that I've truly began to understand just a little bit what it means to make friends, or be a friend. Caring for one another, is more than making conversation... that is the beginning, and I think I always felt out after that because I didnt' know where to go afterwards. Anyway times otu, ttyl.-
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Day 2: London
So, i started my day at 1:30pm :D
If I was more chinese, I would of been really harsh on myself for wasting time in London after spending so much money to get here. However, I realize I didn't get much sleep last night, and I didn't sleep until 3am, so my body was just telling me that I needed to catch up on my sleep. So that was good. Bryan woke me up this morning to tell me something important, but I forgot now, as I'm totally useless when I first wake up. Apperantely, I was suppose to make sure all windows were close... i forgot to check that :- oops.
Anyway, today, I got off the tube at Oxford Circus, amazing ambiance, did some window shopping, felt rich like I was in over my head. Then walked through the Piccadilly Circus, James Park to Buckingham Palace, and the thenthrough Wellington Arch and onto Hyde Park. Too much to see at Hyde park, so decided to leave early to meet up with Bryan and Annie, along with their friends to see a "football" game, Brazil vs. Wales. Sweet :D
Anyway, as it happens, i gave myself 45 minutes to go from Hyde Park station to Seven Sisters Station on the Victoria line. But as luck would follow me, I mean, lateness is synonymous with HK, and as I switch lines from the Piccadilly to the Victoria, the tube was fully packed, and there was a stall train that kept the line from moving. I was like.... JUST MY LUCK. I got in, and i was stuck in the London tube in a fully packed train with no ventilation. This was during rush hour, and it was really horrible. The next 10 minutes were some of the smelliest and "wet" memories i have in public. I was sweating perfusely. :( anyway, as the conductor told us to find alternative route to get to our destination cause he's been advice the train ahead isn't going to be moving. In the same sentence, we started to move because the error was fixed? weird Londoners. Anyway, the ride took about 30 minutes, and it was PACKED, the train was pretty packed, no... there were no security ppl wearing white gloves to shove people in, but we were parked like sardines, with very little ventilation.
Anyway, got to the station, and walked about 20 minutes to the park... I realize i'm not use to walking at all....as my legs were getting tired :( Anyway, HUGE line up around the statium... i'm talking thousands, both ways, since there were tickets available, 1 line with a thousand people lining up to get tickets, while the other thousand was lining up to pick up tickets. It was CRAZY!
Anyway, to put it to perspective, it took us over an hour to get our tickets and get in (and the line was always moving). But yes, it was these AMAZING seats, i'll attach a picture so you can see. But it was amazing! Anyway, Brazil beat Wales two nil, and there was a constant party going on by the Brazillians... literially, non stop, it was amazing. We were going to the game with these 4 brazilian girls, and they went absolutely bananas, endless noise with the horn and whistle, and dancing and jumping... it was crazy! Anyway, we have some amazing seats, 5th row behind the goal, and I also saw Robinhino? i don't remember, #10. Anyway, see the attached picture :D
Look at him, he's sweating!
Look at how close that is!
Anyway, got to sleep, early flight 2mr. nite.
hk
If I was more chinese, I would of been really harsh on myself for wasting time in London after spending so much money to get here. However, I realize I didn't get much sleep last night, and I didn't sleep until 3am, so my body was just telling me that I needed to catch up on my sleep. So that was good. Bryan woke me up this morning to tell me something important, but I forgot now, as I'm totally useless when I first wake up. Apperantely, I was suppose to make sure all windows were close... i forgot to check that :- oops.
Anyway, today, I got off the tube at Oxford Circus, amazing ambiance, did some window shopping, felt rich like I was in over my head. Then walked through the Piccadilly Circus, James Park to Buckingham Palace, and the thenthrough Wellington Arch and onto Hyde Park. Too much to see at Hyde park, so decided to leave early to meet up with Bryan and Annie, along with their friends to see a "football" game, Brazil vs. Wales. Sweet :D
Anyway, as it happens, i gave myself 45 minutes to go from Hyde Park station to Seven Sisters Station on the Victoria line. But as luck would follow me, I mean, lateness is synonymous with HK, and as I switch lines from the Piccadilly to the Victoria, the tube was fully packed, and there was a stall train that kept the line from moving. I was like.... JUST MY LUCK. I got in, and i was stuck in the London tube in a fully packed train with no ventilation. This was during rush hour, and it was really horrible. The next 10 minutes were some of the smelliest and "wet" memories i have in public. I was sweating perfusely. :( anyway, as the conductor told us to find alternative route to get to our destination cause he's been advice the train ahead isn't going to be moving. In the same sentence, we started to move because the error was fixed? weird Londoners. Anyway, the ride took about 30 minutes, and it was PACKED, the train was pretty packed, no... there were no security ppl wearing white gloves to shove people in, but we were parked like sardines, with very little ventilation.
Anyway, got to the station, and walked about 20 minutes to the park... I realize i'm not use to walking at all....as my legs were getting tired :( Anyway, HUGE line up around the statium... i'm talking thousands, both ways, since there were tickets available, 1 line with a thousand people lining up to get tickets, while the other thousand was lining up to pick up tickets. It was CRAZY!
Anyway, to put it to perspective, it took us over an hour to get our tickets and get in (and the line was always moving). But yes, it was these AMAZING seats, i'll attach a picture so you can see. But it was amazing! Anyway, Brazil beat Wales two nil, and there was a constant party going on by the Brazillians... literially, non stop, it was amazing. We were going to the game with these 4 brazilian girls, and they went absolutely bananas, endless noise with the horn and whistle, and dancing and jumping... it was crazy! Anyway, we have some amazing seats, 5th row behind the goal, and I also saw Robinhino? i don't remember, #10. Anyway, see the attached picture :D
Look at him, he's sweating!
Look at how close that is!
Anyway, got to sleep, early flight 2mr. nite.
hk
Monday, September 04, 2006
Day 1: London
Wow, what a day.... what a long day.....First of all, the plane ride was most definitely not something I like to repeat. Over night flight with a kid that kept kicking me as I try to fall as sleep. The dad try to stop him, but since he was such a small kid and would sleep sideways, he just end up trying to stretch his legs every so often and would kick me.... what a kid. The kid doesn't response when I lift his legs or try to move him, he's a slumber sleeper!Then, there was this lady.... oh man... I thought I was getting air sick, and I was... But I never get air sick... anyway, felt like vomiting, and was feeling really warm neck up with a sense of lost vision as everything went bright and it just got more intense. So I try to get to the washroom to see if I was going to vomit or something. Anyway, washroom was full, and I had to wait in the isle where the exit door was. I was leaning on the seat as I couldn't stand straight, and this old Indian lady told me that I was in her line of TV, and asked me to move. So i just kneel down and focused on not fainting. Anyway, flight attendant lady was pushing her cart by, and i asked for Gravol and water... she was hesitant and told me to wait... but when she saw me, she decided to give me water. ANYWAY, the Indian lady told me to stay away from her if I'm sick. I was like... oh man, so rude.... i was just getting air sick, and she wanted to get rid of me. Anyway glad the worst part of the day was over.Next, at Gatwick, (probably one of the slowest Airport I've been to), I waited for 1hr30min for the passport checkout. MY goodness, how long does it take? there were only 3 or 4 desk that started for what I estimated to be 500+ people. But anyway, I finally got into town by 12:30. And man, England is beautiful, just the buildings and how it just blends so well into the land. I was glad my trip has finally began to turn over a new leaf.I was lucky enough to have a friend to meet up with first, as we chatted, she poured me water, and lend me her cell phone for the next couple days. It really made my life so much easier. I tube down to London, and man is it different. English speaking, a mixed race of people, yet so unique beautiful and different compare to North America. People crowding and sitting around Leicester Square, and with the open concept of all these stores, theaters, and restaurants facing towards the square, it developed a scene where with one glance, you see many many stories, and little life intricacies. Absolutely fantastic :DIt was at Leicester that I met up with Trudy and Jenn, what a great couple of travelling friends. And I'm very blessed to be able to call them friends as this is the first time I've ever met them. However, it is truly by God's grace that through sharing one friendship, we brothers and sisters of Christ somehow can be so comfortable as extending that arm of friendship and becoming friends with our friends friends. Thanks Andrea, your pocket people are most definitely a strong reflection of you, and the character you show.Lunch at Leicester was beautiful, but what was even more stunning were the V&A and National Gallery. The buildings, and and artifacts, I was in a state of awe seeing some of Rafael's work, or the statue of Michelangelo, not to mention some of the plasticine scripture of the towers in Rome... Wow. And it doesn't hurt to have an English Re-nais-sances? Masters Degree person accompanying you, teaching and discussing about the amazing distention of each painting, scripture, and every art piece that I am walking by. History was fun for the first time. Next, I went to see The Producer.... what a funny show. I wish i had more sleep so that I didn't keep falling in and out of sleep in the show. I love the dynamics between the characters and pair of characters, these guys are good... and definitely worth every pound to go see them.To wrap up... as I'm totally exhausted....I would have to say God's has shown me both trials and blessings. I guess I need to just count my blessings when I feel like things are taking a turn for the worst. God has most definitely been faithful, so why do I finding myself doubting in his work, ME? Well, I would just like to thank everyone that I talked with last night as it truly made me count my blessings again to have such wonderful friends to show their support and care.alright then, good night love.hk :)
Here's a picture in the gallery, and a picture for a friend back home :)
Here's a picture in the gallery, and a picture for a friend back home :)
Sunday, September 03, 2006
On the eve of my journey to London
Umm.... mixed with excitment and nervous energy with a tint of a doubt. I believe this is going to be a journey for the ages. The first of it's kind for me, what will Europe have in store for me?
I hope over the next two weeks, I'll learn much about myself, and also learn to pick up my cross and walk after God's will each day; regardless of location.
So far, I'd like to say thanks to Andrea, Fred, Shui, and everyone who's helped in lending me books, helping me prepare, and just hanging with me while I get ready.
Until i'm on the other contintent
hk
I hope over the next two weeks, I'll learn much about myself, and also learn to pick up my cross and walk after God's will each day; regardless of location.
So far, I'd like to say thanks to Andrea, Fred, Shui, and everyone who's helped in lending me books, helping me prepare, and just hanging with me while I get ready.
Until i'm on the other contintent
hk
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
