I always seem to get caught up with the worry and the details of life, and forget to take a step back and enjoy my youth. I haven't felt much for writing lately, but then again I haven't made a strong effort and building habits of writing often. In my teens writing was my only solace and comfort after my father passed away. It was how I grieved and coped with the world around me. Looking back on some of those pieces, I'm embarrassed at how "bad" they are, but I'm so glad I've kept them. They serve a purpose. It's nice to be reminded that whatever comes my way in the next few years, I'll be able to cope and thrive. I'm beginning to feel the pressure of graduation and the search for schools. I know what I want, but I'm always worried it's not what I need. Of course I'm afraid of failing, but I've spent so much of my life up to this point avoiding risk, that it feels really good to take a chance. On my myself, on love, and even on life. Even though I have a lot on my plate this summer, I hope I can find time to read and write for pleasure, and to truly enjoy my life, just as it is, right now.

On Tuesday, Guy and I headed off to The Natural History Museum for a Darwin Exhibition. There was s much to look at, and my personal favorite being this display with a hundred or so different kinds of hummingbirds. I couldn't find my adored Ruby Throated Hummingbird, but it was still an amazing display. After perusing the collections, the exhibition, and much staring at how beautiful the building itself is we walked over the the Science Museum. We ate lunch in the Deep Blue Café, which is this huge cobalt blue room, with internally lighted tables and decent food. I found the color rather soothing, and quite a lot of the museum was that hue. We wandered around, rode the motion simulator, and spent a good amount of time in the History of Medicine wing. We've come so far in terms of health care, and looking back at some of those instruments, I have to say I'm glad I was born in a later century. That night we went to Madame Jojo's for what they call White Heat: London's Infamous Art Rock Disco. The bands were enjoyable, and the people watching even more so. Scenesters look the same, wherever you go. We had a few drinks, but left early and enjoyed the walk home. I even got heckled at, which in a city this large, and full of so many gorgeous people, took me by surprise a bit. A quick ride home on the Tube, and I was out like a light as soon as I hit the mattress.

Sunday morning. After almost an hour getting through customs and baggage claim, Guy met me just outside of the arrivals gate. The smile on his face was worth all the hours on the plane times ten. After a sleepy ride home on the tube, I took a quick nap. We went out for lunch with his parents and siblings for Mother's day. His parents were so sweet and such fun to spend time with. His siblings are awesome as well. After lunch we all lazed about and watched television. Napping ensued after TV time, as I was exhausted by that point. We watched the last episode of Battlestar Galactica, and I managed to fall asleep at a decent hour and slept a full 8, waking up at 6:30 to sunshine and birds chirping outside. Today was a wonderful day in London. Guy and I went to the Royal Academy and saw the Utagawa Kuniyoshi exhibit which was a really nice selection of his work. Everything from geisha and warrior portraits to mythological triptych panels and humorous pieces. There was a small selection of humorous erotic panels the size of post cards, which I was pleased they included. We snagged lunch at Pret á Manger and headed off to The British Museum, but stopped by Fortnum & Mason and I perused the tea counter and bought some Margret's Hope Oolong from Darjeeling. I've just had a cup and it is floral and complex. Lovely. We browsed around the collections at the British Museum for 2 hours or so, and then came home, made dinner, and are now vegging out on the couch watching TV and surfing the web. Tuesday is a science day, with more museums and possibly a night out to see some bands play. I'm amazed at how at home I feel here. I don't feel like a tourist or a vacationer. All those day to day activities that should feel strange feel normal.  I can see myself making a very smooth transition to living here next year.