23 Days ~ 5 Countries ~ 1 Backpack

Packing for my current semester-long study abroad experience at Coventry University in England was difficult enough! In the past I have been known to completely over pack. Yet, I am very proud of myself that I was able to leave for the airport in January with one large checked bag, a backpacking bag as a carry-on, and a normal backpack as my personal item. I have managed extremely well with the items that I brought over. There are very few items that have not been used to their full potential. Furthermore, I am very thankful that my parents were not only able to bring a few summer essentials to Europe on their visit, but they were also able to bring home many winter essentials.

At the end of May, I had to pack for a 23 day backpacking adventure across England, France, Italy, Austria, and Slovenia. 23 days!!! 5 countries!!! 1 backpack!!! This felt impossible at the time considering the various weather conditions I was expecting and planned activities ranging from hiking to fancy dinners. While I accepted the challenge and managed to survive throughout the trip, there are aspects that I would have changed about my packing decisions. Most importantly, I wish I would have condensed what I brought knowing the shopping that was going to occur. On my flight back to England I had to pay an extra 60 euros because my bag was too big to carry onto the plane... oops...

Below is all of the items I managed to fit in the backpacking bag, thanks to the vacuum seal bags!!

1. Deuter Aircontact women's backpacking bag, waterproof backpacking bag cover, tote, satchel, vacuum seal packing bags

2. 2 long sleeve shirts, a quarter length shirt, 3 t-shirts, 4 tank-tops and 2 blouses *should have condensed!!!

3. A dress and 4 cardigans/cover-ups *should have thought to bring thinner layers

4. A pair of jeans, navy blue jeggings, black leggings, maxi-skirt and 2 cotton skirts *should have taken out the black skirt and navy jeggings

5. Cosmetic essentials

6. Workout leggings, shorts, athletic zip-up, 2 t-shirts and 2 tank-tops

7. NorthFace zip-up, rain jacket, and peacoat *Should have left the peacoat, way to bulky!

8. Hat, gloves, 3 scarves, belt, 3 headbands, sunglasses and umbrella *should have taken out warm scarf and hat

9. Ipad, travel pillow, bike lock, chargers and converter, passport, cards and camera with extra battery

Fashionista: Nike Roshe Running Shoes

As my tennis shoes are beginning to wear away, I have began searching for my next pair. One problem, I have fallen in love with the Nike Roshe Running shoe! There are so many choices!! Can I just have them all??

Nike Roshe Run Calypso

Nike Roshe Run Split Toe Rack (Lato 2014)

Nike Roshe Dynamic Flywire

Nike Roshe Run ~ Gamma Green

Nike Roshe Run Premium ~ Black - Base Gray

Nike Roshe Run Quickstrike ~ "Two-Faced" (Wiosna 2013)

Nike Roshe Premium Safari

Nike Roshe Run NM "Great Britain"

Nike Roshe Run Mid - Mineral Teal

Nike Roshe Run ~ White - Black

Nike Roshe Run Vent

Nike Roshe Run ~ Coral Floral

Nike Roshe Run ~ Pastel Floral

Oh the Places You'll Go!! Royal Leamington Spa

Spring has officially sprung in England! The weather was absolutely gorgeous this weekend!

Saturday morning, Bailey and I began our girls weekend by hopping on the train for Royal Leamington Spa. The trip only took about 10 minutes! For the next few hours, we roamed the Jephson's Garden and streets of Royal Leamington Spa. We even made our way to the historical Royal Pump Rooms where people visited the various spa baths during the 18th and 19th century for leisure or medical purposes. After a little bit of shopping, we sat down at the Fat Birds Cafe for a late lunch. We then decided to take a little break in our hotel room and drop off bags after a full afternoon or walking, shopping, and eating.

Bailey and I on our paddle boat adventure

Bailey and I then had the opportunity to connect with my father's co-workers's daughter and her friends from the area. They were extremely friendly and they were able to point us in the right direction for a great dinner spot.

Sunday brunch at the BandStand Tea Room

After a quick stop at a Caribbean restaurant for a Margarita on the rocks, we made our way to a pub to watch the championship game of Ireland vs. France in Rugby 6 Nations. Can't say I knew what was going on, but it was a great atmosphere to watch the game! I was amazed how physical the game got and the injuries looked so awful! Yet, I can say I actually enjoyed the game!

For dinner, we ate at Copper Pot. I enjoyed a delicious Steak & Ale pie with mashed potatoes and peas. Yum! The place became very packed with locals celebrating St. Patty's weekend. We were able to stay and enjoy some of the night before heading back to our hotel exhausted.



Sunday morning, we awoke early and helped ourselves to a free breakfast at our hotel. We then made our way to a boat hire on the river where we hired a paddle boat out. It was the perfect morning to soak in some sun and get a little workout in.

Once our time was up we made our way to an American shop that held a variety of food and sweets that aren't normally available here in England. It was expensive though, so I only treated myself to a blue gatorade.

To end our wonderful weekend, we met up with Tony and Sue, my fathers coworker and wife, for a Sunday Brunch at the BandStand Team Room. Here I had my first traditional English tea and scone. It was great to catch up with them!

We've Hit the Halfway Mark!!!

Today is the official halfway mark for my study abroad experience... strange! I can remember arriving in Dublin, Ireland, for our pre-travel like it was yesterday. There was so much anxiety and excitement for what was in store for me. I had so many different expectations for everything and I can honestly say that I have been pleasantly blown away! Of course, there have been bumps in the road, but I am so thankful for my experience so far! 

Thinking back on these last 63 days, I am just amazed of the memories I have created! I have had the opportunity to travel all around the United Kingdom, join the Coventry Women's Basketball team, make friends with people from around the world, gain real life marketing experience in a new culture, learn Harvard Style writing, make many cultural mistakes and learn from them, expand my chef abilities, eat pigs blood (black pudding), get my ear pierced, enjoy the pub life, realize I can't stay up late enough for the English clubbing culture, splurge on a little shopping and so much more!!!!! 

Yet, it is not just about the memories. This journey has also led to much personal growth. By being immersed into the culture of Coventry, I feel that I have gained a better understanding of not only my own culture in America and Minnesota, but also the cultures of the diverse population here. The way in which education, work, sport and social run in England has many differences than what I am used to. I have learned to adapt, accept, and even enjoy some of the differences. My experiences so far have impacted me for the better and I look forward to how they will influence the rest of my time here abroad as well as my future.

It is sad to think that it is half over, but I am looking forward to everything in store for me within the next 63 days before flying back to the states! We are currently in the process of planning our St. Patrick's Day Weekend, possibly going to London and the Harry Potter Studios or Manchester. The following weekend I will be taking a day trip to Cardiff with the Lets Go program from Coventry University. On March 25th my dad will be arriving in England. He will being doing some work in Coventry and spending a little bit of time with me as well! On March 28th the whole gang arrives! My dad and I will be meeting up with my mom, two brothers and grandparents on my mom's side in London. We will be visiting London, Bath, Stonehenge and Warwick castle in England then make our way to France to visit Normandy Beach and Paris. My mother and I will then begin a girls week in Cinque Terre, Florence and Venice, Italy. Sending my mom off on April 13th back to the states, I am hoping to be leaving on a train to Salzburg, Austria to meet up with one of my roommates, Ana. From there I will head home to Coventry for a day of recuperation before flying out to Groningen, Holland for another Management Game with the SEM Department on April 21st. We will return to Coventry on the 25th to prepare for exams and papers. Yeah, it's not all fun and games. During an open few days we may be traveling with our exchange group and director to Scotland for some mountain biking. Then, on May 11th the Coventry Women's Basketball team will be in a tournament that I will be able to be apart of. Finally, on May 13th I will be heading to Waco, Texas to reunite with my boyfriend for (hopefully) the last time after 4 years of long distance!! After his graduation, packing up, and a little traveling, we will road trip back home to Minnesota for the summer. WOW!! I am exhausted just thinking about the craziness to come within these next few months!

Let the second half of my adventure begin!!!

The Perfect Getaway to York

York was beautiful and had an abundance amount of history! One aspect that I was disappointed with was that it cost money to tour almost all historical locations and museums. The York City Art Gallery was the only free exhibition that I was actually really excited for. Yet, when we arrived, we found out that it was closed until 2015... How inconvenient!

Despite these discrepancies, I had the most wonderful day!

At 8am Saturday morning, I hopped on a bus with the Let's Go program through Coventry University for a 2 1/2 hour ride to York. Zane, Joey, Chris and I all joined in on this trip, but we all had different plans for the day. It was the perfect day for an adventure on my own.

I began by touring the Museum Gardens with various ruins, the York Observatory, and much more. I then found my way to one of the three old city walls for a wonderful walk. These walls have defended the city since the Roman times. After finding my way to the end of the first city walls, I found my way to the Eye of York and Clifford's Tower. Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised by an enormous crowd of protesters, college students, policemen monitoring. I grabbed some free tea and pea soup from one of the protest groups and learned about what was happening. They informed me that they will often have peaceful political protests about government budget cuts on social reform.

Next, I made my way through all of the shopping streets including the famous area, The Shambles. Being without the boys, I had my fair share of window shopping and dreaming about shopping sprees with my mom:) Being a college exchange student, I don't exactly have the extra cash to shop as I please. Oh well, I will take these adventures and memories over shopping anytime!! Yet, I did find myself at a chocolate shop at an outdoor market and couldn't resist. I bought truffles of all flavors!! Yummy!

After finding the York Minster, I came across the cutest cupcakery! It was a great opportunity to relax and enjoy an amazing red velvet cupcake. I also had the opportunity to talk to a few locals enjoying cupcakes of their own. I received great advice on where locals enjoy eating dinner and the best vintage shops. After lots of rummaging through vintage shops and even ripping my jeans in the process, I found the perfect brown leather vintage satchel!!! Greatest day ever!! Only 4.75!! To celebrate my great victory I helped myself to some incredible local pizza to end my trip.

View of Eye of York and political protests from the Clifford's Tower

The York Minster 

Crumbs Cupcakery

View of York Minster from City Walls

Lent: 40 Days to the New You

In the Catholic religion, it is customary to "give up" something for lent like chocolate, meat, deserts, pop, swearing, or other aspects of people's lives. Many people beyond the Catholic religion join in on this tradition to better themselves or accept a challenge similar to a New Year's resolution. As a Lutheran, I have never given anything up. This year I was inspired to take part in this Lent tradition, but on my own terms. Instead of given something up, I wanted to add things into my life to better myself as a person and enjoy my experience abroad that much more. I am combining many of the ideas below.

15 ideas to add to your life during the 40 days of Lent:

1. Make your bed every morning

2. Drink a glass of water every morning when you wake up and every night before you go to sleep

3. Write down something or someone you are thankful for every day and put it in a jar

*this is a great opportunity for a DIY project!!

4. Every day, add a post it note to your bathroom or bedroom mirror with inspirational quotes, compliments to yourself, things you love about yourself, or goals for your day

5. Compliment someone new every day

6. Move your body! Every day make sure to get up and move your body for an hour; take a walk, go for a run, go to the gym, yoga, go for a bike ride, swim, Zumba, etc.

7. Only use the stairs

8. Take a picture each day. Post onto Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or print it out and post it on your bulletin board. Be thankful for your memories and experiences every day whether it is life changing or the simplicity of a cup of coffee

8. Pray every day

9. Write in your journal or on your blog every day

10. Add in an hour of quiet time every day where you can reflect, enjoy the outdoors, or drink a cup of coffee

11. Volunteer every day!

12. Take time each day to commit to a friend, significant other, spouse, family member, or God

13. Make sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep a night

14. Find a possession each day that you can donate at the end of the 40 days

15. Create a bucket list and complete something each day

The Lake District ~ Windermere, United Kingdom

Traveling around the world has become one of my passions in life and I am so thankful for all of the places I have already traveled with family and friends within the United States and beyond! Of the many places I have traveled, there are only a few places that I have absolutely fallen in love with. A few of these places include the Amalfi Coast in Italy, Toledo in Spain and the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland. The beauty of these locations are insatiable!! You simply have to be quite and take in the view because no photo will ever capture the real essence of the moment. The Lake District has just joined this list as one of my favorite places on earth!

The Lake District, also known as The Lakes or Lakeland, is a mountainous region in North West England with many fresh water lakes. This region is highly regarded by vacationers with incredible hiking and mountain biking paths, variety of boutiques and outdoor shopping, water sports, and thrill seeking adventures. Since being in England, I have heard so many amazing stories about trips to The Lake District and have been itching to experience it first hand. 

Yesterday, Bailey and I had that opportunity to travel to Windermere in the southern part of the Lake District. It exceeded all expectations! Bailey and I hoped on a coach full of international students from Coventry University for a four hour bus ride to Windermere. I had never felt like the complete minority until then. We were traveling with students predominantly from Asian or Arab countries. When I wasn't sleeping, I had the chance to meet a few of the other students and hear their stories.

Arriving in Windermere, we had absolutely no plan. We just knew that we wanted to go on an adventure. Windermere was the perfect old fishing village filled with cafes, boutiques, outdoor stores, and lots of ice cream and chocolate shops!! Everything was so tempting!! We began by walking just over a mile down to the water. At Bowness Bay we ate our packed lunches staying clear of the many birds, ducks, and massive swans. After a few pictures, we decided to take a tour boat to two other small villages on the northern side of the 10 mile long and 1 mile wide lake. The buildings, castles, homes, and hotels along the lake were incredible!! People have money here!! Bailey and I got off at the second stop in Ambleside. What we didn't realize was that the city centre was a mile away! By the time we got into town and look around a bit, we had to turn around in order to make the boat back to Windermere. Thankfully we had beautiful weather, but we missed a huge hail storm by just a few minutes!

Our next destination was Post Knott Viewpoint. The hike up to the top was filled with sweat, lots of mud, and even more laughter. The rain and hail made the pathway to the top a little tricky. No one fell, but there were way too many close calls! Getting to the top of Post Knott Viewpoint was such a reward in every direction. We could see the entire lake, rolling hills, Windermere village, the English countryside, and snowy mountains in the distance. It was absolutely gorgeous! We didn't want to leave!

The trek down the hill was far worse than the trek up... So much mud!! After safely getting back to our meeting point in town, we were able to treat ourselves to a nice meal at Lazy Daisy Lakeland Kitchen before returning home. I'd say it was a successful day! Can't wait to return someday!!