Which is it? You'd never think you'd find a home so fast as I did in Iceland.
I miss it more every day.
Reserved!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
The Last Days
The last few days - Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Emotional and confusing don't even begin to cover it.
Reserved!
Emotional and confusing don't even begin to cover it.
Reserved!
Isafjorður
Isafjorður (Isafjorthur) (Pronounced: E-sa-fyor-th-er)
Post Reserved.
Independent travel with Kate-Noel to the north fingers of Iceland. I'm not to good at telling people how to pronounce these names on a computer.
Post Reserved.
Independent travel with Kate-Noel to the north fingers of Iceland. I'm not to good at telling people how to pronounce these names on a computer.
Hestaferðir Baka
Hestaferðir Baka (Horse Back Riding)
Post Spot Reserved.
We went horse back riding up a small mountain 45 minutes from Skalholt. It was amazing to be on the top of that mountain and see for at least forty miles in every direction.
Post Spot Reserved.
We went horse back riding up a small mountain 45 minutes from Skalholt. It was amazing to be on the top of that mountain and see for at least forty miles in every direction.
Karið
This will be the post about my experience in Karið (Pronounced: Care-ith)
The Caldera not far from Skalholt.
I was able to visit Karið twice while in Iceland. Its an amazing sight that takes my breath away every time I see it. I wish pictures could do it justice but as with all the natural wonders and beauties of Iceland pictures can't begin to do it proper justice.
I'm not sure if I stated this in an earlier post but I'll summarize it again.
During class one day we had a trivia challenge. No one was forced to answer but we were warned that those that answered incorrectly would have to suffer a 'punishment' when we went to see the mysterious natural wonder that day. Now I'm a bit of a go-get-'er and I'm not afraid to do something daring or challenging. If I was afraid I wouldn't have traveled to Iceland. So when I heard that there would be a 'punishment' I decided I'd see what that 'punishment' was. So I honestly tried to answer a question but ended up getting it wrong (the second question I got right). So I was all in now, time to pay the price.
So later that day we went out to town and on the way back we took a side trip to this 'mysterious' wonder of nature. Low and behold it was the large volcanic crater Karið.
I've never been one to be 'moved' my natural wonders. Granted the last natural wonder I saw was the Grand Canyon when I was about ten or eleven years old. And at that age you really can't comprehend much in that topic.
But when I saw Karið I was honestly moved and amazed. It was an amazing sight. I was nearly running down the path to the bottom where the 'lake' was.
The Caldera not far from Skalholt.
I was able to visit Karið twice while in Iceland. Its an amazing sight that takes my breath away every time I see it. I wish pictures could do it justice but as with all the natural wonders and beauties of Iceland pictures can't begin to do it proper justice.
I'm not sure if I stated this in an earlier post but I'll summarize it again.
During class one day we had a trivia challenge. No one was forced to answer but we were warned that those that answered incorrectly would have to suffer a 'punishment' when we went to see the mysterious natural wonder that day. Now I'm a bit of a go-get-'er and I'm not afraid to do something daring or challenging. If I was afraid I wouldn't have traveled to Iceland. So when I heard that there would be a 'punishment' I decided I'd see what that 'punishment' was. So I honestly tried to answer a question but ended up getting it wrong (the second question I got right). So I was all in now, time to pay the price.
So later that day we went out to town and on the way back we took a side trip to this 'mysterious' wonder of nature. Low and behold it was the large volcanic crater Karið.
I've never been one to be 'moved' my natural wonders. Granted the last natural wonder I saw was the Grand Canyon when I was about ten or eleven years old. And at that age you really can't comprehend much in that topic.
But when I saw Karið I was honestly moved and amazed. It was an amazing sight. I was nearly running down the path to the bottom where the 'lake' was.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Week Two In Iceland - Unbelievable
While this past week was extremely busy with trying to get the Laxdaela Saga read before leaving for the glacier, it was still a productive and event week just like the first. We had guests and adventures of all kinds.
Our first guest appeared on Tuesday afternoon just after lunch. Erlinger, the man who kindly sent emails to Dr. Novak to update him on the volcano’s activity, came to speak with us about many things having to do with Iceland and of course his famous cats. He taught us a lot about the saga such as; when it most likely occurred and when it was actually written down. He also gave us some information on Skalholt and Snorri the Priest. The information he gave us gave us the ability to relate to the characters of the Saga all the more because he also talked about the roles of women and men. My favorite part was when he talked about the Viking song/poem. I enjoy those kinds of things – poetry and writing styles.
Our second adventure was on Wednesday. We actually had a few things that happened on Wednesday, the first of which was another trip into Selfoss. We went into town in order to pick up some supplies and goods for the kitchen of the hostel since more people are choosing to stay behind for breakfast to catch up with work and readings (including myself). I picked up some Digestive cookies and a few other supplies. I tried to take it slow because I was starting to feel the effects of a cold and stomach bug (which was going around the students and professors). Me and Kate-Noel walked down the sidewalk and explored some shops. I greatly enjoy the calm and friendly atmosphere in Selfoss. Oh! We were also able to go to the famous hotdog stand and we found ourselves chomping down Iceland’s best hotdog ever (although I am still a loyal patron to Snoopy’s back in the States).
On the way back to Skalholt we made a stop at a natural wonder. It was a cold day and a lot of people weren’t feeling well so most of the students looked at the Caldaria from the edge rather than climbing down. But because I had answered wrong in the trivia in class earlier that day I was committed to serving my ‘punishment’ for it. As such I hiked down the Caldaria with Dr. Novak, Regan, Julia P, and Kate-Noel. Mine and Regan’s punishment was to stand knee deep in the water in the Caldaria. It would have been nothing any other day but that day was particularly cold but none the less we went into the water and stood for at least five minutes if not more. The water was freezing but once you got over into the numb stage it was fine. Although no matter how numb your legs and feet got you could still feel the sharp rocks beneath your feet. The hike down was easier than the hike up but it was still worthwhile and one of the greatest adventures I’ve had here in Iceland so far.
That evening, after we ate dinner at the dining hall, we went over to Kristen’s house for the evening get together he and his wife were hosting for us. There house is amazing; the design and layout flows well and I loved the openness of it. We enjoyed some snacks and some of the group tried stinking shark (I passed on the chance because my stomach wasn’t feeling so well). The white wine they served was some of the best white wine I’ve had. We were also blessed with a performance by Kristen and his wife, Harpa, which was amazing. I could have listened to them sing and play the guitar for hours. Another memorable moment was Dr. Novak playing the guitar and playing the song ‘Old Blue’. We sang along to the chorus and he sang the verses. It was awesome and I enjoyed it greatly. Dr. Novak plays well and sings better than he thinks. It’s a shame I can’t put the video of it up on Facebook but at least I have it for myself when I want to remember the amazing times I’ve had here Iceland.
On Thursday we had another visitor. Dirfinah (sp?) came to teach us some Icelandic phrases, words, and sentences to help us communicate better with others when we visit places and have guests visit up. The pronounciation of words is hard to grasp sometimes because of how our tongues have been trained since we were born. For me I have the added frustration of trying to separate the sounds of Icelandic from Japanese. I experienced this trouble when doing French. The languages differ so much and yet it’s easy to sway back into the way I speak Japanese and sound out words in Japanese. But none the less it was fun and interesting and I learned a lot of phrases that will no doubt come in handy while I’m on my individual trip the last week of our time here in Iceland.
Friday morning we left for Snaelfulsness. It was a long trip down there which most of us spent sleeping since we were still exhausted from a busy week. But once we got there we took a small break at the condo before leaving to venture up to the glacier. I was unable to do as much glacier climbing as I wanted because of my poor health with the cold and because my foot fell through a three foot hole in the glacier (I have some pretty bruises from it) but I was happy to climb what I could and rested atop a rock comfortably – waiting for the rest of the group to climb as far as they wanted before returning. The view from up there was unbelievable and something that could make a person cry because of shock and admiration.
That same day Dr. Grathowl, Kate-Noel, and I walked down to the beach. The beach was amazing and vastly different from the beaches of North Carolina. Of course it was even more amazing because you could see the mountain where the glacier was – a rare sight to see a mountain glacier right beside a sandy beach.
Saturday was a relaxing day for the most part. We did trek through the rain to the fairy castle which ended up being a wonderful view of a giant rock formation right beside the ocean. Even though it was raining and I wasn’t feeling well I was still overjoyed to stand next to this towering formation and just look at it. That afternoon I skipped out on a hike in order to sleep and get rested in the hopes that my cold would get better (although it only got worse). My favorite part of the weekend was when Dr. G and Dr. N read the Njall Saga and did sock puppets and sound effects (sometimes we had to do them because they’d get worn out).
We left the sea side condo Sunday morning and headed off to Helgafell to see where Gudrun was buried. It was surreal standing next to her grave after reading the Laxdaela Saga. Part of me wanted to ask her who she talked about loving the most because it’s something we’ll never be sure of and that’s frustrating. We also walked around the church that was next to her grave; it’s a lovely church that is very photogenic.
After visiting the grave we headed to Erik’s long house where we read and listened to stories having to do with Eric the Red. It was interesting to be in a long house, it helped me picture events in the book much easier. Another cool part about the house was the chance to play the Viking horn. I remember seeing the pictures of during Dr. N’s slide show of the Summer Abroad in Iceland. It was one of things I really wanted to do and to do it right so I was overjoyed when the sound from the horn came out deep and strong (although I had to work through some high pitched levels before getting low enough). After that it was back on the road to get back to Skalholt before dinner.
Reflection
I took multiple notes of the geographic advantages of the area while away at the glacier this weekend. The hills and mountainous terrain was an advantage to those that lived there. Not only was the landscape a defensive advantage it also had properties that were important to survival. The multiple water falls from the melting of the glacier gave them a clean source of water for drinking and cooking. As seen with the position of Erick the Red’s long house, living on top of a hill or mountain side can be a great advantage in seeing attackers coming. The same position gives the defensive advantage of those attempting to attack being unable to completely sneak up on the residence and also can exhaust them before they even are able to attack properly. While the beach was a steep slope and could allow boats to get closer to shore than in other places it was still a rocky terrain and thus made it hard for ships to sneak up the coast line for attack or invasion.
Erik the Red’s house also gave me a lot of insight into how the people of those days survived and lived in such rough terrains and regions. The house was made of turf which helped insulate the house and keep the warmth in and the cold out – more so than wood or stones would. I noticed this when I stepped in because it was much warmer than the cold atmosphere outside. Also the roof is made out of turf as well, with grass on top. This adds a camouflage to the house but also assists in keep it warm on the inside of the residence. The long house was centered about a long fire pit which was outlined with rocks. The beds were also the sitting areas which saved warmth and space and allowed for a residence to be smaller and thus easier to keep warm. They also had lofts which added more space to the small residence without compromising heat by making the place longer or wider. You could also tell that everything from an animal was used after it had been killed. The meat was used for food; the fur was used as blankets and clothing, and the bones were kept for use of jewelry, tools, or weapons. This resourcefulness no doubt was a key attribute to their survival and healthy living in such tough conditions. It was interesting to hear that the women were the only ones allowed into the ‘kitchen’ area – that the men were forbidden to go into that section of the long house. Perhaps that’s why women now days tell men to ‘keep out of my kitchen’, I know I do that.
The most surreal thing about this weekend was visiting Helgafell. While I wasn’t able to climb up the mountain there completely I was able to go up a ways and when I looked out I immediately knew why some of the characters of the saga stayed in Helgafell. It’s a beautiful place, surrounded by mountains and a diverse landscape it was easy to fall in love with it as I sat on the rocks of the mountain. But the most amazing moment was when I stood before Gudrun’s grave. A lot of the time people read books that have some facts and never truly get into them because they aren’t able to visit the places where the book happened or have nothing to relate or connect them to the book or characters. I also found another part of myself while standing on that mountain side waiting for the others. I found a more mature part of myself. I never understood what my parents meant by seeing something so beautiful that there was an inhuman connection and surreal feeling but when I stood there in a place I had read about and seeing the remarkable landscape I realized that surreal feeling of seeing something so beautiful that all one can do is look in awe. Out of the various languages I have been learning I could find no words to fit what I saw. My parents understood this when they asked me how the scenery and trip were and all they got was silence as I tried to think of the words to describe it. I understand why almost all the characters always returned to Iceland in the end. I don’t think any place in the world can compare to this place. (Dr. G, Dr. N – You have succeeded in making this student fall in love this wonderful nation. I remember that one, or both, wished for us to understand the love that you two have for this place and while I am not yet at the level to understand the love that you two have for it, I realize that I am on my way to loving this place just as deeply and truly as you two.)
Something else that must be said is the feelings I had about Gudrun before I visited her grave. Reading the Saga I grew the dislike Gudrun and her tricking ways. I felt like she was a woman who cared little for others and didn’t mind hurting someone. I was only seeing her deeds from that point of view but when I stood before her grave everything changed. My thought process began to change quickly and I found myself in awe of the woman that lay beneath the ground before me. I realized that while she might have hurt others she was simply searching for happiness all her life. And even though she went through so much I can’t say that she ever truly found happiness because while she might have had tears innocent enough to burn the bones of a witch it doesn’t mean that those tears held the feelings of happiness. I realized the cruel woman I saw her as was the wrong way to see Gudrun. Don’t we all do horrible things to find something we want? I know I’m guilty of it just as much as she is. I now hold a greater level of respect for Gudrun and everything she went through – she is just as human as anyone else, perhaps even more human than the other characters of the Saga. She has suddenly become so easy to relate too. I must apologize to her when I visit her grave the next time I come to Iceland.
Another thing I wanted to do while at Gudrun’s grave was to ask her who she truly loved. Could it be that she loved all of her husbands save for the first one whom she was forced to marry? Could this also include Kjartan? All that is said about it is that she was the worst to the one she loved best. To some level she was bad to most of her husbands, so who’s to say she only loved one man in all her life? In not knowing I find frustration and yet peace with such an ending. It is most fitting for the story to have such an unanswered and yet answered reply to the question of who Gudrun truly loved. And while asking her at her grave won’t answer the question it would still be nice to do so. Sometimes answers are carried on the wind from the souls that have left the message behind. Or at least that’s what I believe.
All these experiences have helped me find a part of myself I never knew existed. This is why I came here. If I cannot find another part of me here I feel that I will never find it. I have grown so much during these past two weeks and I know that in the two weeks to come I will only grow more. I have finally learned to stand upon my own feet and fly without being afraid to hit the ground. The surreal experiences have helped me realize so much more about myself and the world. This world is so big and yet so very small at once. I found new loves that expand my understanding and admiration for the planet, the ideals, and the growth of this world.
I sincerely want to say Thank You to both Dr. Grathowl and Dr. Novak.
Finding something new to love in life is the greatest pleasure and for that I am thankful.
But my biggest thank you has to go to those that supported my want and drive to come to this place. I couldn't be here without that support (both emotionally and financially).
Takk Fyrir Mig! (Thank you!)
Our first guest appeared on Tuesday afternoon just after lunch. Erlinger, the man who kindly sent emails to Dr. Novak to update him on the volcano’s activity, came to speak with us about many things having to do with Iceland and of course his famous cats. He taught us a lot about the saga such as; when it most likely occurred and when it was actually written down. He also gave us some information on Skalholt and Snorri the Priest. The information he gave us gave us the ability to relate to the characters of the Saga all the more because he also talked about the roles of women and men. My favorite part was when he talked about the Viking song/poem. I enjoy those kinds of things – poetry and writing styles.
Our second adventure was on Wednesday. We actually had a few things that happened on Wednesday, the first of which was another trip into Selfoss. We went into town in order to pick up some supplies and goods for the kitchen of the hostel since more people are choosing to stay behind for breakfast to catch up with work and readings (including myself). I picked up some Digestive cookies and a few other supplies. I tried to take it slow because I was starting to feel the effects of a cold and stomach bug (which was going around the students and professors). Me and Kate-Noel walked down the sidewalk and explored some shops. I greatly enjoy the calm and friendly atmosphere in Selfoss. Oh! We were also able to go to the famous hotdog stand and we found ourselves chomping down Iceland’s best hotdog ever (although I am still a loyal patron to Snoopy’s back in the States).
On the way back to Skalholt we made a stop at a natural wonder. It was a cold day and a lot of people weren’t feeling well so most of the students looked at the Caldaria from the edge rather than climbing down. But because I had answered wrong in the trivia in class earlier that day I was committed to serving my ‘punishment’ for it. As such I hiked down the Caldaria with Dr. Novak, Regan, Julia P, and Kate-Noel. Mine and Regan’s punishment was to stand knee deep in the water in the Caldaria. It would have been nothing any other day but that day was particularly cold but none the less we went into the water and stood for at least five minutes if not more. The water was freezing but once you got over into the numb stage it was fine. Although no matter how numb your legs and feet got you could still feel the sharp rocks beneath your feet. The hike down was easier than the hike up but it was still worthwhile and one of the greatest adventures I’ve had here in Iceland so far.
That evening, after we ate dinner at the dining hall, we went over to Kristen’s house for the evening get together he and his wife were hosting for us. There house is amazing; the design and layout flows well and I loved the openness of it. We enjoyed some snacks and some of the group tried stinking shark (I passed on the chance because my stomach wasn’t feeling so well). The white wine they served was some of the best white wine I’ve had. We were also blessed with a performance by Kristen and his wife, Harpa, which was amazing. I could have listened to them sing and play the guitar for hours. Another memorable moment was Dr. Novak playing the guitar and playing the song ‘Old Blue’. We sang along to the chorus and he sang the verses. It was awesome and I enjoyed it greatly. Dr. Novak plays well and sings better than he thinks. It’s a shame I can’t put the video of it up on Facebook but at least I have it for myself when I want to remember the amazing times I’ve had here Iceland.
On Thursday we had another visitor. Dirfinah (sp?) came to teach us some Icelandic phrases, words, and sentences to help us communicate better with others when we visit places and have guests visit up. The pronounciation of words is hard to grasp sometimes because of how our tongues have been trained since we were born. For me I have the added frustration of trying to separate the sounds of Icelandic from Japanese. I experienced this trouble when doing French. The languages differ so much and yet it’s easy to sway back into the way I speak Japanese and sound out words in Japanese. But none the less it was fun and interesting and I learned a lot of phrases that will no doubt come in handy while I’m on my individual trip the last week of our time here in Iceland.
Friday morning we left for Snaelfulsness. It was a long trip down there which most of us spent sleeping since we were still exhausted from a busy week. But once we got there we took a small break at the condo before leaving to venture up to the glacier. I was unable to do as much glacier climbing as I wanted because of my poor health with the cold and because my foot fell through a three foot hole in the glacier (I have some pretty bruises from it) but I was happy to climb what I could and rested atop a rock comfortably – waiting for the rest of the group to climb as far as they wanted before returning. The view from up there was unbelievable and something that could make a person cry because of shock and admiration.
That same day Dr. Grathowl, Kate-Noel, and I walked down to the beach. The beach was amazing and vastly different from the beaches of North Carolina. Of course it was even more amazing because you could see the mountain where the glacier was – a rare sight to see a mountain glacier right beside a sandy beach.
Saturday was a relaxing day for the most part. We did trek through the rain to the fairy castle which ended up being a wonderful view of a giant rock formation right beside the ocean. Even though it was raining and I wasn’t feeling well I was still overjoyed to stand next to this towering formation and just look at it. That afternoon I skipped out on a hike in order to sleep and get rested in the hopes that my cold would get better (although it only got worse). My favorite part of the weekend was when Dr. G and Dr. N read the Njall Saga and did sock puppets and sound effects (sometimes we had to do them because they’d get worn out).
We left the sea side condo Sunday morning and headed off to Helgafell to see where Gudrun was buried. It was surreal standing next to her grave after reading the Laxdaela Saga. Part of me wanted to ask her who she talked about loving the most because it’s something we’ll never be sure of and that’s frustrating. We also walked around the church that was next to her grave; it’s a lovely church that is very photogenic.
After visiting the grave we headed to Erik’s long house where we read and listened to stories having to do with Eric the Red. It was interesting to be in a long house, it helped me picture events in the book much easier. Another cool part about the house was the chance to play the Viking horn. I remember seeing the pictures of during Dr. N’s slide show of the Summer Abroad in Iceland. It was one of things I really wanted to do and to do it right so I was overjoyed when the sound from the horn came out deep and strong (although I had to work through some high pitched levels before getting low enough). After that it was back on the road to get back to Skalholt before dinner.
Reflection
I took multiple notes of the geographic advantages of the area while away at the glacier this weekend. The hills and mountainous terrain was an advantage to those that lived there. Not only was the landscape a defensive advantage it also had properties that were important to survival. The multiple water falls from the melting of the glacier gave them a clean source of water for drinking and cooking. As seen with the position of Erick the Red’s long house, living on top of a hill or mountain side can be a great advantage in seeing attackers coming. The same position gives the defensive advantage of those attempting to attack being unable to completely sneak up on the residence and also can exhaust them before they even are able to attack properly. While the beach was a steep slope and could allow boats to get closer to shore than in other places it was still a rocky terrain and thus made it hard for ships to sneak up the coast line for attack or invasion.
Erik the Red’s house also gave me a lot of insight into how the people of those days survived and lived in such rough terrains and regions. The house was made of turf which helped insulate the house and keep the warmth in and the cold out – more so than wood or stones would. I noticed this when I stepped in because it was much warmer than the cold atmosphere outside. Also the roof is made out of turf as well, with grass on top. This adds a camouflage to the house but also assists in keep it warm on the inside of the residence. The long house was centered about a long fire pit which was outlined with rocks. The beds were also the sitting areas which saved warmth and space and allowed for a residence to be smaller and thus easier to keep warm. They also had lofts which added more space to the small residence without compromising heat by making the place longer or wider. You could also tell that everything from an animal was used after it had been killed. The meat was used for food; the fur was used as blankets and clothing, and the bones were kept for use of jewelry, tools, or weapons. This resourcefulness no doubt was a key attribute to their survival and healthy living in such tough conditions. It was interesting to hear that the women were the only ones allowed into the ‘kitchen’ area – that the men were forbidden to go into that section of the long house. Perhaps that’s why women now days tell men to ‘keep out of my kitchen’, I know I do that.
The most surreal thing about this weekend was visiting Helgafell. While I wasn’t able to climb up the mountain there completely I was able to go up a ways and when I looked out I immediately knew why some of the characters of the saga stayed in Helgafell. It’s a beautiful place, surrounded by mountains and a diverse landscape it was easy to fall in love with it as I sat on the rocks of the mountain. But the most amazing moment was when I stood before Gudrun’s grave. A lot of the time people read books that have some facts and never truly get into them because they aren’t able to visit the places where the book happened or have nothing to relate or connect them to the book or characters. I also found another part of myself while standing on that mountain side waiting for the others. I found a more mature part of myself. I never understood what my parents meant by seeing something so beautiful that there was an inhuman connection and surreal feeling but when I stood there in a place I had read about and seeing the remarkable landscape I realized that surreal feeling of seeing something so beautiful that all one can do is look in awe. Out of the various languages I have been learning I could find no words to fit what I saw. My parents understood this when they asked me how the scenery and trip were and all they got was silence as I tried to think of the words to describe it. I understand why almost all the characters always returned to Iceland in the end. I don’t think any place in the world can compare to this place. (Dr. G, Dr. N – You have succeeded in making this student fall in love this wonderful nation. I remember that one, or both, wished for us to understand the love that you two have for this place and while I am not yet at the level to understand the love that you two have for it, I realize that I am on my way to loving this place just as deeply and truly as you two.)
Something else that must be said is the feelings I had about Gudrun before I visited her grave. Reading the Saga I grew the dislike Gudrun and her tricking ways. I felt like she was a woman who cared little for others and didn’t mind hurting someone. I was only seeing her deeds from that point of view but when I stood before her grave everything changed. My thought process began to change quickly and I found myself in awe of the woman that lay beneath the ground before me. I realized that while she might have hurt others she was simply searching for happiness all her life. And even though she went through so much I can’t say that she ever truly found happiness because while she might have had tears innocent enough to burn the bones of a witch it doesn’t mean that those tears held the feelings of happiness. I realized the cruel woman I saw her as was the wrong way to see Gudrun. Don’t we all do horrible things to find something we want? I know I’m guilty of it just as much as she is. I now hold a greater level of respect for Gudrun and everything she went through – she is just as human as anyone else, perhaps even more human than the other characters of the Saga. She has suddenly become so easy to relate too. I must apologize to her when I visit her grave the next time I come to Iceland.
Another thing I wanted to do while at Gudrun’s grave was to ask her who she truly loved. Could it be that she loved all of her husbands save for the first one whom she was forced to marry? Could this also include Kjartan? All that is said about it is that she was the worst to the one she loved best. To some level she was bad to most of her husbands, so who’s to say she only loved one man in all her life? In not knowing I find frustration and yet peace with such an ending. It is most fitting for the story to have such an unanswered and yet answered reply to the question of who Gudrun truly loved. And while asking her at her grave won’t answer the question it would still be nice to do so. Sometimes answers are carried on the wind from the souls that have left the message behind. Or at least that’s what I believe.
All these experiences have helped me find a part of myself I never knew existed. This is why I came here. If I cannot find another part of me here I feel that I will never find it. I have grown so much during these past two weeks and I know that in the two weeks to come I will only grow more. I have finally learned to stand upon my own feet and fly without being afraid to hit the ground. The surreal experiences have helped me realize so much more about myself and the world. This world is so big and yet so very small at once. I found new loves that expand my understanding and admiration for the planet, the ideals, and the growth of this world.
I sincerely want to say Thank You to both Dr. Grathowl and Dr. Novak.
Finding something new to love in life is the greatest pleasure and for that I am thankful.
But my biggest thank you has to go to those that supported my want and drive to come to this place. I couldn't be here without that support (both emotionally and financially).
Takk Fyrir Mig! (Thank you!)
Friday, June 4, 2010
Wake up in the morning feeling like Yon Sigerdsson!
Its the first Friday of the month abroad in Iceland and Im in Reyk, the capital. For now Im reserving this post spot for this trip but for now its only been half the trip to this city.
As they say here, bless bless (bye-bye)!
Let the good times roll
As they say here, bless bless (bye-bye)!
Let the good times roll
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Selfoss and Guests
June 1:
While mommy dearest was in the States having surgery I was over here on the cold lil' island country, Iceland, shopping in Selfoss after a long morning of history class lesson. Selfoss wasn't as intimidating as I thought it would be. I sort of panicked at the idea of going into an actual town and being in shopping centers. But they aren't much different from some of the stuff I've been in thats in the USA.
Quaint stores with village level pricing. Lots of cafes and there was even a KFC at the beginning of the town. True, the food and pricing differ but it was a regular town with normal people. It was comforting. Sort of.
The most exciting moment for me was when I found the DVD "I'm a cyborg, but its okay" in the grocery store called 'Bonus'. (Its a RAIN movie. RAIN is a korean actor I absolutely love because he's so funny and great at singing, dancing, and acting) I thought about buying it, it was only 650 krs (about 5 dollars). While I didn't buy it that day, if I happen to see it again at that amazing price, I just might have to get it.
June 2:
Mythology class in the morning. I skipped hiking up to breakfast to get an extra forty-five minutes of sleep. And while it helped me focus more in class, I still got sleepy during all the talk of strange gods and goddess. Luckily class only lasted till 1230. We hiked up the winding path to lunch and came back down. I took a nap during the 2 hour free time so that I would be awake and alert when Baldwin and Egylo showed up.
Baldwin is a 12 year old boy who is the grandchild of some people who work at Skalholt. He visited the Meredith Abroad girls last summer while they were staying here and was happy to see the new group yesterday afternoon. His english is remarkably good and he's good at teaching us icelandic. While some things get lost in translation and misunderstandings between us and him, he still seems to keep up with our jokes and even jokes back. He doesn't look much different from a kid in the USA. Blonde haired and blue eyed with fair complexion.
He came by around 345 in the afternoon and hung out with us. Myself, Dr. G, Dr. N, Kate-noel, Regan, and Juila P. flew kites and played batchie ball with Baldwin for hours - at least until it was time for dinner and the Egylo meeting.
At six we met in the lobby at the dinning hall near the church and met with the editor of the Icelandic Review Online website. She's an extremely nice young woman and was eager to answer our questions. We spent thirty minutes talking with her until it was time to go eat dinner. Baldwin joined us for dinner and so did Egylo. Steinun (our amazing cook!) fixed pizza and french fries and also got us some freshly made ice cream from a place down the street. It was a meal fit for an American King.
After dinner we went back into the lobby to finish conversing with Egylo before we said our goodbyes and headed back to the hostel. At the hostel Dr. G and Baldwin were waiting for us. He had gotten permission to spend the night at the hostel in order to hang out with the Meredith Crew.
And now I'm here. Sitting quietly in my room enjoying the view and trying to relax. Today was a long day and I began to let the fear sit into my bones. I've avoided the facts such as: I'll be here for a month; I'm in a different country; and My family is so far away and I wont see them for a month. I keep myself away from thinking that. But as cliques form in the group and people start to divide up I begin to feel so many emotions. I'm not sure were I stand. I'm not too particularly close with anyone. Its kind of weird. I am truly on my own out here.
I suppose. . . .
Let The Good Times Roll (?)
While mommy dearest was in the States having surgery I was over here on the cold lil' island country, Iceland, shopping in Selfoss after a long morning of history class lesson. Selfoss wasn't as intimidating as I thought it would be. I sort of panicked at the idea of going into an actual town and being in shopping centers. But they aren't much different from some of the stuff I've been in thats in the USA.
Quaint stores with village level pricing. Lots of cafes and there was even a KFC at the beginning of the town. True, the food and pricing differ but it was a regular town with normal people. It was comforting. Sort of.
The most exciting moment for me was when I found the DVD "I'm a cyborg, but its okay" in the grocery store called 'Bonus'. (Its a RAIN movie. RAIN is a korean actor I absolutely love because he's so funny and great at singing, dancing, and acting) I thought about buying it, it was only 650 krs (about 5 dollars). While I didn't buy it that day, if I happen to see it again at that amazing price, I just might have to get it.
June 2:
Mythology class in the morning. I skipped hiking up to breakfast to get an extra forty-five minutes of sleep. And while it helped me focus more in class, I still got sleepy during all the talk of strange gods and goddess. Luckily class only lasted till 1230. We hiked up the winding path to lunch and came back down. I took a nap during the 2 hour free time so that I would be awake and alert when Baldwin and Egylo showed up.
Baldwin is a 12 year old boy who is the grandchild of some people who work at Skalholt. He visited the Meredith Abroad girls last summer while they were staying here and was happy to see the new group yesterday afternoon. His english is remarkably good and he's good at teaching us icelandic. While some things get lost in translation and misunderstandings between us and him, he still seems to keep up with our jokes and even jokes back. He doesn't look much different from a kid in the USA. Blonde haired and blue eyed with fair complexion.
He came by around 345 in the afternoon and hung out with us. Myself, Dr. G, Dr. N, Kate-noel, Regan, and Juila P. flew kites and played batchie ball with Baldwin for hours - at least until it was time for dinner and the Egylo meeting.
At six we met in the lobby at the dinning hall near the church and met with the editor of the Icelandic Review Online website. She's an extremely nice young woman and was eager to answer our questions. We spent thirty minutes talking with her until it was time to go eat dinner. Baldwin joined us for dinner and so did Egylo. Steinun (our amazing cook!) fixed pizza and french fries and also got us some freshly made ice cream from a place down the street. It was a meal fit for an American King.
After dinner we went back into the lobby to finish conversing with Egylo before we said our goodbyes and headed back to the hostel. At the hostel Dr. G and Baldwin were waiting for us. He had gotten permission to spend the night at the hostel in order to hang out with the Meredith Crew.
And now I'm here. Sitting quietly in my room enjoying the view and trying to relax. Today was a long day and I began to let the fear sit into my bones. I've avoided the facts such as: I'll be here for a month; I'm in a different country; and My family is so far away and I wont see them for a month. I keep myself away from thinking that. But as cliques form in the group and people start to divide up I begin to feel so many emotions. I'm not sure were I stand. I'm not too particularly close with anyone. Its kind of weird. I am truly on my own out here.
I suppose. . . .
Let The Good Times Roll (?)
Golden Waterfall - Gulfoss
We visited the geyser and waterfall the other day. It was truly a remarkable experience. The closest thing I’ve ever seen to something like that is the Grand Canyon and the other Arizona canyons when I was only eleven or twelve. At the growing and maturing age of twenty-one I am able to appreciate the beauty of such earthly wonders so much more. The sheer size of the rip in the earth was unbelievable and easily made me weak in the knees (something to be expected considering I have a tremendous fear of heights). The way the rocks mercilessly poured over the landscape down into the split created by the tension beneath the crust was also another step of facing a different fear – water.
I have had a horrible hatred and fear of deep or unclear water since I experienced the traumatizing event of trying to save me and my little brother from a rip current while swimming in the ocean. While we both survived it left its ‘scars’ upon us. So I naturally recoiled when I saw the waterfall and the depth and height it reached. But I pushed myself. I forced myself to walk down the long path that was sometimes dangerous and increased my unease because of the steepness of it. Once down on the rocks that were near the top of the waterfall I felt another uncomfortable emotion; the fear of that raging water. While at first I kept away from the side and simply took pictures, I eventually managed to build up the courage to go towards the edge and put my hand in the cool water. I even cupped my hand in it and took a sip. It tasted rather good.
While my fears never left me and while they have not been concurred completely I did not allow them to hold me back from having a good time, experiencing something new, and seeing the fun that those I am with had. That’s what this trip is about for me, to face fears. My goal isn’t to completely overcome them – I know that will never be achieved for me – but I want to face them and learn to control myself and to think more rationally when in those situations that makes one normally act irrational. I want to grow and mature even more and that is why I have journeyed so far from home. I can’t find any other way to grow then to leave my comfort zone behind. This country, Iceland, is a very good start.
Videos and pictures coming later. . .
I have had a horrible hatred and fear of deep or unclear water since I experienced the traumatizing event of trying to save me and my little brother from a rip current while swimming in the ocean. While we both survived it left its ‘scars’ upon us. So I naturally recoiled when I saw the waterfall and the depth and height it reached. But I pushed myself. I forced myself to walk down the long path that was sometimes dangerous and increased my unease because of the steepness of it. Once down on the rocks that were near the top of the waterfall I felt another uncomfortable emotion; the fear of that raging water. While at first I kept away from the side and simply took pictures, I eventually managed to build up the courage to go towards the edge and put my hand in the cool water. I even cupped my hand in it and took a sip. It tasted rather good.
While my fears never left me and while they have not been concurred completely I did not allow them to hold me back from having a good time, experiencing something new, and seeing the fun that those I am with had. That’s what this trip is about for me, to face fears. My goal isn’t to completely overcome them – I know that will never be achieved for me – but I want to face them and learn to control myself and to think more rationally when in those situations that makes one normally act irrational. I want to grow and mature even more and that is why I have journeyed so far from home. I can’t find any other way to grow then to leave my comfort zone behind. This country, Iceland, is a very good start.
Videos and pictures coming later. . .
Mommy Dearest
I'm putting my Iceland posts on hold in order to post about my mommy.
Yesterday she went through a double knee replacement surgery. Needless to say I was worried to death about her health and if the surgery would go well - with no complications. Being half way across the Atlantic doesn't help that level of stress either. But I trusted in the Lord and left everything in his hands (as I have done more often as of late).
Everything went fine.
Same came out surgery healthy and with two new knees. Of course the journey is only half way over. Now she has to go through the recovery process but I know she'll be alright. My mom's a strong person. I get my high tolerance for pain from her. I know she'll be just fine.
But anyways, since I couldn't be there to give my mom a teddy bear or flowers in person I wanted to post a couple of pictures I took of some of the flowers here.
Enjoy!
I Love You Dearly Mommy. Rest well. Recover quickly.
-Punky-
Monday, May 31, 2010
Maulers and Ponies and Cake, Oh My!
Plane Ride:
We left the Raleigh airport at 11:19pm. All ten students: Me, Anne, Amanda, Michelle, Julia P., Reagan, Kaelyn, Coley, Julia S., and Kate-Noel. Also our two wonderful professors - Dr. Novak and Dr. Grawthwohl. We were crowded onto a three seat wide plane- the smallest plane I've every been on in my whole life. I could read the newspaper the guy across the asile was reading. Most of us turned on our Ipods and relaxed since it was only an hour and a half flight. Most of us were dreading the lay-over in Boston. We arrived in Boston around 130pm and settled in near International Security - it wasn't going to open till five in the afternoon. With computers, cards, and Bananagrams we managed to survive the 8 hour lay over (also the book store in the airport entertained us for a long while). During our trip through security we were asked by people why we were in Boston. At first I told the guard we were a football team, undefeated. But later we came up with the elaborate story that we are the "Meredith Maulers" Extreme Cage Fighting Team. So far we've come up with a few nicknames of each other and some of us are wanting to do a tshirt design. Once I get a design down I'll put some pictures up. (So far some names are BGOD(me, apprivating my own name is awesome enough ROFL), Riddler(Coley - she wore purple pants and green one day haha), Gunter (Julia P), Jewelbecca (Julia S), and MadHatter (Kate-noel sat in class with a tea pot and tea cup among other tea making items today so she got that nickname). Look forward to that! I'm thinking Lime Green, Black, and Hot Pink colors.
Next came a bit pain and discomfort. A five hour flight from Boston to Iceland. All I can say is I'm SUPER happy that I'll be in first class when I fly to Japan this winter. My butt hurt so bad I could hardly stand it. But I finally got to finish the Sherlock Holmes movie - a predictable end. Still not fully satisfied with Downy Jr. as Sherlock but thats because I was spoiled with Jeremy Bretts FANTASTIC job at playing the mysterious sluth. With that only taking up an hour I decided to watch The Transporter (again)(after much difficulty with the lil tv screen). Jason Statham is just amazing at acting, not to mention his accent is to die for. haha. After finishing the movie I tossed and turned about trying to get some shut eye but it just wasn't going to happen. At least not until the last ten minutes of the flight at which time the flight attendent woke me up because my ipod had fallen. -.-; bugger! So I ended up going the whole 38 (or more) hours without a wink of sleep. Don't worry. I drank coke, ate beef jerky and chocolate - yes, the ones you gave me mom and dad, they were a life saver! <3
Car Ride and Settling In at Skalholt - Not to mention ponies and cake:
I was SOOOOOO glad when we finally got in to the bus-car because I was soooo tired. I crawled into the back, with three others. Everyone chatted and laughed, myself including at first. But once we got past the 'troll rocks' and down the long, endless roads we started to feel the weight of our journey thus far. I think I was the first one to dose off, only coming to when the bus-car made a turn about. Apparently we had gotten lost while I was slumbering for five minutes. We ended up stopping at a gas station (yes, they are like ours. Remarkably so.) and some Icelandic bikers helped Dr. G and Dr. N figure out how to get to Skalholt.Once we were packed back in the van all snuggly (it was tight, we had 12 suitcases and 24 carry on items plus 12 people to fit into the bus-car) we started to get warm and comfortable. Head started bobbing and heavy eye lids started fluttering. Before anyone knew it we (the students) had dosed off - well at least the whole back row. Everyone piling heads on top of each other and mouths hanging open - luckily no drooling. The turn into Skalholt was the only reason we woke up; woke up grumbling.
It was the only chance we'd get to sleep that day. Apparently its easier to adjust to time difference if you 'hit-the-ground-running' when you arrive somewhere. Dr. N was concerned we wouldn't sleep through the night if he let us rest the first day - he obviously isn't aware of what I am capable of! I could sleep through a 24 hour hail storm without a problem. I could sleep for a week if people would leave me alone. hahahaha. No but seriously, no lie. I can sleep any time, anywhere, for however long.
But anyways.
We got to the hostel and immediately when to lunch first. Thank Goodness! And there was WARM soup waiting for us. It tasted amazing! Absolutely wonderful. I'm surprised no one dropped their head into their soup the way we were supporting such dark bags under our eyes. haha. But after lunch we headed down to the rooms and cabins. Everyone gets their own room - LUCKY! Our professors stay at the two cabins up this lil hill - they try to give us our space. Although we have no problem with hanging around them. Dr. N and Dr. G are awesome and always funny. Our 'settling' in wasn't long (only long enough for me to throw my stuff on the bed and wash my hair in the sink). They had us movin' and grovin' before we knew it.
Off to hike 2 1/2 miles over ROUGH terrain to see the wild horses - through the pouring rain. And while seeing the beautiful horses was worth it, it didn't help our low level of energy and our growing exhaustion. But that was as far as they pushed us the first day. The only other thing we did was walk up the path to dinner where another warm and delicious meal was waiting for us. How wonderful <3. (The cake is awesome!)
Let The Good Times Roll.
We left the Raleigh airport at 11:19pm. All ten students: Me, Anne, Amanda, Michelle, Julia P., Reagan, Kaelyn, Coley, Julia S., and Kate-Noel. Also our two wonderful professors - Dr. Novak and Dr. Grawthwohl. We were crowded onto a three seat wide plane- the smallest plane I've every been on in my whole life. I could read the newspaper the guy across the asile was reading. Most of us turned on our Ipods and relaxed since it was only an hour and a half flight. Most of us were dreading the lay-over in Boston. We arrived in Boston around 130pm and settled in near International Security - it wasn't going to open till five in the afternoon. With computers, cards, and Bananagrams we managed to survive the 8 hour lay over (also the book store in the airport entertained us for a long while). During our trip through security we were asked by people why we were in Boston. At first I told the guard we were a football team, undefeated. But later we came up with the elaborate story that we are the "Meredith Maulers" Extreme Cage Fighting Team. So far we've come up with a few nicknames of each other and some of us are wanting to do a tshirt design. Once I get a design down I'll put some pictures up. (So far some names are BGOD(me, apprivating my own name is awesome enough ROFL), Riddler(Coley - she wore purple pants and green one day haha), Gunter (Julia P), Jewelbecca (Julia S), and MadHatter (Kate-noel sat in class with a tea pot and tea cup among other tea making items today so she got that nickname). Look forward to that! I'm thinking Lime Green, Black, and Hot Pink colors.
Next came a bit pain and discomfort. A five hour flight from Boston to Iceland. All I can say is I'm SUPER happy that I'll be in first class when I fly to Japan this winter. My butt hurt so bad I could hardly stand it. But I finally got to finish the Sherlock Holmes movie - a predictable end. Still not fully satisfied with Downy Jr. as Sherlock but thats because I was spoiled with Jeremy Bretts FANTASTIC job at playing the mysterious sluth. With that only taking up an hour I decided to watch The Transporter (again)(after much difficulty with the lil tv screen). Jason Statham is just amazing at acting, not to mention his accent is to die for. haha. After finishing the movie I tossed and turned about trying to get some shut eye but it just wasn't going to happen. At least not until the last ten minutes of the flight at which time the flight attendent woke me up because my ipod had fallen. -.-; bugger! So I ended up going the whole 38 (or more) hours without a wink of sleep. Don't worry. I drank coke, ate beef jerky and chocolate - yes, the ones you gave me mom and dad, they were a life saver! <3
Car Ride and Settling In at Skalholt - Not to mention ponies and cake:
I was SOOOOOO glad when we finally got in to the bus-car because I was soooo tired. I crawled into the back, with three others. Everyone chatted and laughed, myself including at first. But once we got past the 'troll rocks' and down the long, endless roads we started to feel the weight of our journey thus far. I think I was the first one to dose off, only coming to when the bus-car made a turn about. Apparently we had gotten lost while I was slumbering for five minutes. We ended up stopping at a gas station (yes, they are like ours. Remarkably so.) and some Icelandic bikers helped Dr. G and Dr. N figure out how to get to Skalholt.Once we were packed back in the van all snuggly (it was tight, we had 12 suitcases and 24 carry on items plus 12 people to fit into the bus-car) we started to get warm and comfortable. Head started bobbing and heavy eye lids started fluttering. Before anyone knew it we (the students) had dosed off - well at least the whole back row. Everyone piling heads on top of each other and mouths hanging open - luckily no drooling. The turn into Skalholt was the only reason we woke up; woke up grumbling.
It was the only chance we'd get to sleep that day. Apparently its easier to adjust to time difference if you 'hit-the-ground-running' when you arrive somewhere. Dr. N was concerned we wouldn't sleep through the night if he let us rest the first day - he obviously isn't aware of what I am capable of! I could sleep through a 24 hour hail storm without a problem. I could sleep for a week if people would leave me alone. hahahaha. No but seriously, no lie. I can sleep any time, anywhere, for however long.
But anyways.
We got to the hostel and immediately when to lunch first. Thank Goodness! And there was WARM soup waiting for us. It tasted amazing! Absolutely wonderful. I'm surprised no one dropped their head into their soup the way we were supporting such dark bags under our eyes. haha. But after lunch we headed down to the rooms and cabins. Everyone gets their own room - LUCKY! Our professors stay at the two cabins up this lil hill - they try to give us our space. Although we have no problem with hanging around them. Dr. N and Dr. G are awesome and always funny. Our 'settling' in wasn't long (only long enough for me to throw my stuff on the bed and wash my hair in the sink). They had us movin' and grovin' before we knew it.
Off to hike 2 1/2 miles over ROUGH terrain to see the wild horses - through the pouring rain. And while seeing the beautiful horses was worth it, it didn't help our low level of energy and our growing exhaustion. But that was as far as they pushed us the first day. The only other thing we did was walk up the path to dinner where another warm and delicious meal was waiting for us. How wonderful <3. (The cake is awesome!)
Let The Good Times Roll.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
French Toast, Planes, Football, Maulers, Atlantic Ocean, Ponies, and More!
I left the Country. Now a United State's citizen in another country. Iceland.
May 28 was one of the longest days of my life. I had to get up at 7 am to shower and get ready to leave for a flight that was at 11 am. (We were required to be at the gate at 930 - I was the cows tail.) Boston was lovely - not! The only thing I saw of Boston was the freakin' airport!! For 8 hours too. But we eventually boarded or 930 pm flight heading to Iceland! That lead to another 'wonderful' time. 5 hours on a flight is tooooooo much! My butt has never hurt so much. But at least I got to finish watching Sherlock Holmes and I watched the first Transporter again. (There were lil tv's in the back of seats for passengers).
Once we got here we hit the ground running! Drove to Skalholt (it was about a two hour drive because we got lost) - Everyone eventually fell asleep.
After settling into our rooms we headed out to see the wild horses.
They were beautiful. Numerous colors. Lots of babies - and more to come.
We had dinner and then we 'collapsed'.
At the current moment I'm feeling the same way. I'm gonna cut this post short to go get some rest but I'm hoping to get another post up about the events of traveling tomorrow and also to talk about the water and geyser we visited today (Sunday).
Let The Good Times Roll.
B <3
May 28 was one of the longest days of my life. I had to get up at 7 am to shower and get ready to leave for a flight that was at 11 am. (We were required to be at the gate at 930 - I was the cows tail.) Boston was lovely - not! The only thing I saw of Boston was the freakin' airport!! For 8 hours too. But we eventually boarded or 930 pm flight heading to Iceland! That lead to another 'wonderful' time. 5 hours on a flight is tooooooo much! My butt has never hurt so much. But at least I got to finish watching Sherlock Holmes and I watched the first Transporter again. (There were lil tv's in the back of seats for passengers).
Once we got here we hit the ground running! Drove to Skalholt (it was about a two hour drive because we got lost) - Everyone eventually fell asleep.
After settling into our rooms we headed out to see the wild horses.
They were beautiful. Numerous colors. Lots of babies - and more to come.
We had dinner and then we 'collapsed'.
At the current moment I'm feeling the same way. I'm gonna cut this post short to go get some rest but I'm hoping to get another post up about the events of traveling tomorrow and also to talk about the water and geyser we visited today (Sunday).
Let The Good Times Roll.
B <3
Thursday, May 6, 2010
T-Minus 22 Days
Twenty-two days away from leaving. The nervousness is setting in. Expected.
I was cleaning my apartment today - it became a wreck over Exam week.
I found something that reminded me of how strong I have become.
When I was sixteen I was diagnosed with Lordosis (a condition where the lower vertebra of my spine were to close together and where crushing the nerves that run into my legs and arms). Kind of like the opposite of scoliosis. We tried to correct it with physical therapy but (as the doctor suspected) my case was not one that could be fixed so easily. The numbness in my legs and arms got worse and the back pain continued to escalate. It was scary. Losing the feeling in my limbs from time to time. I remember tripping over myself a lot during that time or dropping my pencil more then normal. It came down to one decision, deal with the progression of it or have corrective spinal fusion. Fusion. That word sparked fear into me. I immediately thought that I'd be unable to turn or twist and that was a new level of fear. But after reviewing the pros and cons I decided to take the surgery. I didn't want to end up in a wheelchair some day because I didn't take the chance. Of course the surgery required extensive work around the spinal cord - not exactly the safest surgery, but they all come with their risks. Ones worth taking.
But to the point, what made me more confident and at ease.
I was walking out of the doctors office a few weeks before the surgery. I was in a state of depression because I would be home schooled for roughly three months and I had to quit soccer - my passion and source of happiness. I was bummed to say the least.
But I suppose thats why God stepped in.
On my way to the car I noticed a coin on the ground and picked it up (who doesn't like finding a quarter in the parking lot?). But it wasn't a quarter. It was a coin with a soccer player on it. It was worn but not beyond identification. I flipped it over and found these words on the back of it: "With God, All Things Are Possible."
I'm a person who believes that things can happen by coincidence but I will never believe that finding that coin at that time was a matter of coincidence.
God gave me that push on the back, forcing me step forward and face everything that challenged me.
I still have that coin. Its a little more worn but I can still see the soccer player and I can still read the words.
This little coin will be a source of unending strength for me. Always.
It'll be in my pocket as I take my next step forward, traveling to find that new level of change that I need to continue on my path of life.
Let The Good Times Roll
-Thanks God. I owe you one.
I was cleaning my apartment today - it became a wreck over Exam week.
I found something that reminded me of how strong I have become.
When I was sixteen I was diagnosed with Lordosis (a condition where the lower vertebra of my spine were to close together and where crushing the nerves that run into my legs and arms). Kind of like the opposite of scoliosis. We tried to correct it with physical therapy but (as the doctor suspected) my case was not one that could be fixed so easily. The numbness in my legs and arms got worse and the back pain continued to escalate. It was scary. Losing the feeling in my limbs from time to time. I remember tripping over myself a lot during that time or dropping my pencil more then normal. It came down to one decision, deal with the progression of it or have corrective spinal fusion. Fusion. That word sparked fear into me. I immediately thought that I'd be unable to turn or twist and that was a new level of fear. But after reviewing the pros and cons I decided to take the surgery. I didn't want to end up in a wheelchair some day because I didn't take the chance. Of course the surgery required extensive work around the spinal cord - not exactly the safest surgery, but they all come with their risks. Ones worth taking.
But to the point, what made me more confident and at ease.
I was walking out of the doctors office a few weeks before the surgery. I was in a state of depression because I would be home schooled for roughly three months and I had to quit soccer - my passion and source of happiness. I was bummed to say the least.
But I suppose thats why God stepped in.
On my way to the car I noticed a coin on the ground and picked it up (who doesn't like finding a quarter in the parking lot?). But it wasn't a quarter. It was a coin with a soccer player on it. It was worn but not beyond identification. I flipped it over and found these words on the back of it: "With God, All Things Are Possible."
I'm a person who believes that things can happen by coincidence but I will never believe that finding that coin at that time was a matter of coincidence.
God gave me that push on the back, forcing me step forward and face everything that challenged me.
I still have that coin. Its a little more worn but I can still see the soccer player and I can still read the words.
This little coin will be a source of unending strength for me. Always.
It'll be in my pocket as I take my next step forward, traveling to find that new level of change that I need to continue on my path of life.
Let The Good Times Roll
-Thanks God. I owe you one.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Been a while. . .
Its been a while since I last posted and I apologize for it. Its been a crazy few weeks thanks to complex classes and getting ready for the trip.
So far I've been able to check off quite a few things from the "have to do/get" list.
Passport. Check.
Books. Check.
Heavy coat. Check.
Nervous. Double Check.
The first orientation kind of shook me, mostly because I am finally beginning to understand that I am leaving America and going to a completely different country.
Quite a number of folks (not just my parents) are concerned. Its not exactly up lifting news to find out that Iceland is currently dealing with an active and 'erupting' volcano. For me, its another great reason to go there. The diversity of the landscape is something I look forward to the most.
I still haven't decided completely on what I'd like to do for my free weekend. I'm allowed to go anyway so long as I am back at the hostel Sunday night. Its a tug and pull situation between going up to the arctic circle island Grimsey or going on a ghost/folklore tour.
Let the Good Times Roll
So far I've been able to check off quite a few things from the "have to do/get" list.
Passport. Check.
Books. Check.
Heavy coat. Check.
Nervous. Double Check.
The first orientation kind of shook me, mostly because I am finally beginning to understand that I am leaving America and going to a completely different country.
Quite a number of folks (not just my parents) are concerned. Its not exactly up lifting news to find out that Iceland is currently dealing with an active and 'erupting' volcano. For me, its another great reason to go there. The diversity of the landscape is something I look forward to the most.
I still haven't decided completely on what I'd like to do for my free weekend. I'm allowed to go anyway so long as I am back at the hostel Sunday night. Its a tug and pull situation between going up to the arctic circle island Grimsey or going on a ghost/folklore tour.
Let the Good Times Roll
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Only 2 1/2 months left. . .
Last week two of my four (or five) textbook for summer classes came. As stated before I don’t think its fully settled in that I’m leaving home and going overseas to another country that has a completely different way of governing and living than what I am currently use to and live in a America. It’s been rather busy lately, mostly because this past weekend (3/12-3/114) was the MAL (Model Arab League) Conference in South Carolina at Converse University.
At current I am running on fumes and worn slam-out so I’m lucky that spring break is in session after the conference. Until then I’ll just have to hold my eye lids open with my fingers and support my head on my laptop. I think that once I rest up from all the continuous, exhausting, sleep-depriving, brain-frying, and down-right-stressful rush, the full extent of the meaning of this summer will finally settle in and invoke many emotions.
But for right now let’s discuss, or rather let me talk about, the MAL Conference. It was an experience to say the least, more in a social way than in a political/club way. I met numerous people and shared some good times and excellent laughs with me. Everyone in our Country delegation of Yemen was fun to be with and I had a blast rooming with Suzanne, Ashley, and Leila. Of course that’s not to say we didn’t have our troubles and frustrations.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
An Adventure Begins - Acceptance
I'm starting my blog now. Getting into the habit. Making it a routine.
I'm going to Iceland in May. Yep, to that small lil' island a bit south of Greenland and northwest of England. The acceptance letter came in the mail today. I'll be going with 9 or 10 other girls and two professors.
I'm Nervous!
The fact that I'm going is absolutely surreal. I'm going to have classes in another country with only a handful of people from my college. They're familiar faces but so far they aren't people I have a strong bond with. Ashely was suppose to go but a few things came up and she couldn't. It sucks. I was looking forward to all the amazing things we would have done! We're so alike.
So I'm nervous, excited, impatient, a little scared, and perhaps unable to realize the full capacity of what this means. It'll settle in sooner or later.
So I'm nervous, excited, impatient, a little scared, and perhaps unable to realize the full capacity of what this means. It'll settle in sooner or later.
Its March 3 now. The flight day is May 28. Count down time.
Well after next weekend. For now I've gotta focus on MAL (Model Arab League). We're leaving for South Carolina next Friday. The Conference begins Friday at 4 and isn't done till Sunday morning.
Let the Good Times Roll.
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