tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70128652284798058492023-11-16T12:01:53.614+00:00Life & Times AbroadCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-6606489895005065562012-05-02T20:08:00.000+01:002012-05-02T20:12:30.547+01:00ONE SMILE: A moment in Yaroslavl, Russia<b><br />Backtrack to March 2008:</b> I'm sitting inside a women's hospital, in between two patients, doing arts and crafts. This is the kind of hospital where once you're inside, you're locked in. When you want to leave, you are escorted out, the chains on the the heavy metal doors unlocked... and only then can you go through. This is the kind of hospital where women who may not have even been sick, were checked in. They were women who longed for interaction and companionship... women who were likely abandoned, left to experience the rest of their lives within hospital walls.<br />
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When I first heard that I was going to be placed here, I freaked out. Our program advisor mentioned it being along the lines of psychiatric hospital. There was a lot of built up apprehension and unease on my end... But as soon as I walked through those doors, it was a different story. </div>
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I sat in between two women named Ora. We were gluing lace hearts onto pieces of foam paper and decorating them. They told me to make a wish because apparently in Russian tradition, its good luck to sit in between two people with the same name. There was another woman who asked me to make her heart for her because she wasn't able to do it on her own. Once it was finished, I handed it over to her and her face lit up with a <i>smile. </i>She gave it to her doctor and kept telling our translator to tell me how much she loved it. She even gave me a kiss on the cheek. I'll never forget this moment. I'll never forget her smile.</div>
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During orientation, one of the first things our program advisor told our group was to not be offended if no one smiled at you. She said it's really normal for Russian people to not smile when you're first introduced. She said, "It's not that they don't like you, it's just that you haven't given them a reason to smile." (Profound thought, given American/Californian culture, where we smile at strangers when we pass them by. Courtesy? Maybe.) </div>
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It turns out, our program was the only one that visited the women at this hospital. And these visits were seldom. So it shouldn't have been surprising to see the women bringing out older crafts that were done by former volunteers, and "fixing" them to look good again. But, it was. Maybe the surprising thing was that these visits meant so much to the women... Women who were full of love of people, and probably just wanted to feel that back. I realized that even if we were there temporarily, that moment meant the world to them. Seeing a smile on their faces assured me that even for that brief time, we made helped make their day a little brighter. People may believe otherwise, but this particular experience helped me see that even if it's just one single smile on one person's face, it counts. The little things speak volumes when it comes to helping people.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AB Russia Team with our CCS Staff, March 2008</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption">Monastary in Rostov</td></tr>
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With love from home,<br />
Carla</div>
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</div>Carlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-85435275628502050422012-04-25T08:02:00.003+01:002012-04-25T08:02:49.288+01:00Hello, Again!<span style="font-size: large;"><b>This blog is making a comeback. </b></span><br />
Four years ago I had one of the most amazing life experiences. I was blessed to spend six months in Europe studying abroad. I left the comforts of the routine lifestyle that came with being a UCSD student... I left what was home to me at the time (which was San Diego)... Away from family, friends... Without ever thinking twice about my decision to go, I threw myself into a world of unknown. New people, new places, and most definitely -- new experiences. Little did I know that those six months abroad would enstill this irrepressible passion for the world around me. A passion to not just see incredible, historic, and beautiful places -- but also for people. It's a passion to learn their stories, despite our differences in culture, language, and mindsets. It's a passion to take what I've learned and share it with the people at home. Travel for me is not so much a <i>place</i>, but the experience we have while going... For me, travel is allowing that experience to grow us as individuals and citizens of this world.<br />
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To quote one of my Henry Miller favorites, "<i>One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things."</i><br />
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This blog's purpose it three-fold. First, it's an outlet to document my travel experiences since 2008. Second, it's writing practice (<i>I work in media, I always need writing practice)</i>. And lastly, it's to share stories that will hopefully inspire others in their own travel journeys.<br />
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With love from home,<br />
CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-84237731989001560902008-12-24T03:54:00.001+00:002012-04-25T07:56:17.397+01:00So Long London - Farewell Europe.I understand that this is a bit late, but, after 6 months time, I have made my way over to mother soil in the US of A. I've been home since the 13th, and can honestly say that I'm still having to adjust. It's not a hard adjustment, just a weird one. A weird that I can't so much explain- it's something you feel. Nonetheless, it feels good to be back. I miss London, but being home isn't bad either. I know I'll be back in Europe again, so for now, I'm not too sad about it.<br />
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With love from home,<br />
CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-84528725009699940552008-12-04T21:08:00.004+00:002012-05-02T18:34:45.848+01:00London ChristmasHere's how the streets are looking in dear old London Town. Christmas spirit in the air, cold chills, and festive decor! It's so lavish, and I'll miss this.<br />
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With love from London,<br />
CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-51768224163282462282008-12-01T23:26:00.003+00:002008-12-01T23:27:41.120+00:00Premier into the "real world"!For my internship at the Travel Channel, part of my job is to write the supporting articles for the Travel Today section. I wrote the one's for December, so here they are for your enjoyment!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.travelchannel.co.uk/Travel2008/default.asp">TRAVEL CHANNEL LINK</a>Carlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-21199805964358332122008-12-01T09:46:00.003+00:002012-05-02T18:37:28.568+01:00Geneva is Beautiful!Of the changes that I have undergone while being abroad, one of them is my ability to appreciate nature more. Thank God this happened before I got to Switzerland - because words cannot even describe the utter beauty of this country's landscape. Before the plane even hit the ground, my eyes were glued to looking out the window. We were flying over the ice-capped Swiss Alps, and it was absolutely gorgeous! We landed, and still the mountain range was still in sight... And then, we got to Geneva's city center - and anyone who didn't appreciate nature before would have changed that in an instant. Geneva is cradled between two mountain ranges, the Jura and the Alps. In this cradle lies the absolutely clear waters of Lake Geneva, of which a bit of the Rhone River feeds into. I was stunned when I saw the water. I could not get over the pristine, almost crystal like quality to it. It reminded me of Greece- tempting to just want to jump into... But only then I'd freeze. The weather wasn't to bad either. Our first day was cloudy, but at least in wasn't raining, as what Accuweather had forcasted. There were bits of sun throughout the day, so that was nice. The next day was so much better. It reminded me of Monterey in the Winter. It was cold, but bearable, and the sun was still out enough to where you could feel its heat radiating against the cold.<br />
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While in Geneva, of course we had chocolate! I'll admit, the chocolate was one of the driving reasons of going. I felt so much more like a fatty as I walked into a local store to buy about 10 bars of chocolate to bring home as souvenirs... Yeah, at least its worth it! Other sites were Old Town, which had St. Pierre's Cathedral. Beautiful architecture in this part of the city- very Venetian looking, with cobblestone paths, cute little alleys. Down by the harbor we saw the Flower Clock, and of course the Jet. We made a stop by the United Nations European headquarters, which was really exciting actually! People spoke French there, so it was good that I had someone with who could remotely get us by with me. Aside from that, everything is SO EXPENSIVE! And sadly, I gave into Starbucks... It was by the far the MOST expensive Caramel Macchiato I have ever had in my life! Overall, Geneva was a great destination to end my traveling journeys while abroad. HOME IN 2 WEEKS!<br />
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />With love from London,<br />
Carla<br />Carlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-40057546816493151192008-11-23T19:01:00.002+00:002008-11-23T19:22:25.232+00:00Winter weather, and how do you say it, ED-IN-BUR-OH (Edinburgh)?It's about that time here in London when you're lucky if the weather is in the upper forties. Or when you walk outside around 4 PM and swear its at least 8 because it's so dark. Is this how it is in this northern part of the world? Rain has come to be a customary norm... And as much as I loved it before, I have truly learned to appreciate the San Diego sun. Nonetheless, it really feels like Fall/Winter. I absolutely love the chilling air as I walk down the Christmas lit alleys of Oxford St. after work. With a good coat, boots, and scarf - it's manageable. One thing however, that I have grown to not have so much patience for is the constant crowd that never seems to fade - no matter what time. London is full of people. And maybe now, that I'm not so much of a tourist here... I notice, and care. OPEN SPACE people, please! It's a little weird, to be so Christmas festive this early in November. I used to Thanksgiving... And then AFTER that having all the Christmas stuff come out. But then again, who cares. I love this time of year... I just wished that with all the festive things coming out, that it FELT more like it. It's weird to be so far away this time of year. Thanksgiving is this week and it's my first one in 20 years away from family. It's a little odd... But as I get older, it was bound to happen at least one year right? Being away, while the entirty of my large family gets together... Hmm... I'm not going to lie, I love it here in London. But in 3 weeks time, when I have to leave, it will definitely be due season. I'll be ready. 6 months is a LONG time. It's been absolutely fantastic! But as the holiday season sneaks up to take me by surprise... As I become more and more eager to see my family and friends... I will be ready to go home on that December morning.<br /><br />Aside from that, I want to add that I've been plugging into one Hillsong's young adults connect groups. It has been such a blessing, and without a doubt, much needed!<br /><br />Okay, so Edinburgh. And seriously, even if I did spend a weekend there, I still have issues saying it. I have also come to the conclusion that British accents are overrated, and I absolutely LOVE the way Scottish people talk. Their accent has such a musical ring to it! This trip has been by far my favorite! I liked the city so much more than the others I've been to. There's just something about the feel to it. We were in weather that was in the low 30's... windchills and everything! But even with the fact that we were undoubtedly FREEZING- it was such a great time! We explored Edinburgh Castle for the first part of the morning and then roamed around the streets on the Royal Mile and Princess Street. Had some coffee, of course, and walked through the shops full of plaid scarves, kilts, and an assortment of different souvies. I treated myself to some Scottish cashemere, which is absolutely amazing! Although we did see a little bit of the stereotypical Scottishmen in kilts with bagpipes, I was disappointed that we didn't see more. I guess it goes to show how modernization of a city can cause it to lose it essence. That, or make one completely mre appreicative of its growing absence. But maybe you get more of the traditional when you step outside of the big city. All in all, Scotland, in all of its cold and chill, was a great trip and my favorite by far!<br /><br />With love from London,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-38815761760650084612008-11-17T22:34:00.004+00:002008-11-17T23:45:40.510+00:00Updates!So there is definitely a lot to update on. I will first preface by saying that I am currently organizing my Photobucket account. So, I have set up different albums and have added a few more pictures. I am working on getting the albums up for Budapest, Dublin, and Barcelona within this week. All of these albums will be a sub album of the one called "Fall Semester in London 2008"<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Barcelona</span> - November 8-9, 2008<br /></span>My weekend in Barcelona was definitely much needed. There has been a lot that has changed in me in my five months abroad, and some of these changes are a bit less "uptight". In California, and it may actually be a result of the lack of rainfall, I absolutely despised being in heat. I loved the rain, and anytime this weather of preference made an appearance, I would be ecstatic. Not to be mistaken, I still love this weather... But living in one of the most "sunghine-less" regions in this world has made me appreciate California sunshine all the more. I miss the sun, even if it is just a little bit. I miss the ocean, and the beach. The Thames River is nice - but it's no Pacific Ocean, cold or warm. So anticipating Barcelona riled me with excitement. Excitement for some sunlight and for ocean. Our first day there started early. We left The Crofton at 3 AM and caught a cab to Victoria. A 30 minute train ride to Gatwick Airport and then another 2 hours on easyJet to SPAIN! I was absolutely tired by the time we landed - all because of my lack of sleep the night before. Our first day was chilly, and the sun came out here and there. Nonetheless, it didn't stop us from soaking in the culture. We did a lot of walking that day - exploring the harbor, and the majority of the city. Some of the more major sites were: Paulo Nacional, Portal de l'Angel, Arc de Triomf, Torre Agbar, the slight equivalent to the British Guirken, La Rambla, Port Vell... The only sad part was that the Magic Fountain was not working. The next day proved to be more promising as the sun was actually out radiating its heat. This day we saw the Sagrada Familia, which is by far one of my favorite sites in Barcelona. This Church is stunning! I have never seen architecture quite like it... It looks like a mud building, to be honest. But the way things seems to be etched into it, the sculpting and art - it's a remarkable sight. We also saw the Casa Mila and Casa Batllo. Spainsh food is great! I had my share of Paella, Tapas, and yeah, Sangria. Overall, the weekend in Barcelona was great!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">One month left...</span></span><br />It's crazy how fast time flies. Part of me is ready to be home, but the other part doesn't want to leave London. I love this city and all of its different facets. I have definitely grown a lot in my time here, but we can save that for another blog. Working at the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Travel Channel</span> has also been quite the interesting experience. I have been exposed to so many apects of TV and have learned a lot about it. I've opportunity after opportunity to do some really amazing things such as working with an editor in an editing suite to put together VT's for a big Travel Market. I have written and turned in 4 supporting articles for the December website. I got to film on set at the World Travel Market with a film crew and all that jazz. I've researched more than enough about Mauritius and the Nile region in Egypt... And not to mention, praying for my intense figure of a supervisor is actually working and God is good! London is becoming more and more holiday festive, and COLD. I love it. Minus the cold on some days, but walking around Oxford Street and seeing it decked out in lights is the best feeling!<br /><br />I apologize for this being so rushed, but it is nonetheless an update. Be sure to check on the pictures <a href="http://photobucket.com/lifeandtimesabroad">here.</a> All of my albums are on the left hand tab.<br /><br />Upcoming Trips to: Edinborough, Scotland this weekend & Geneva, Switzerland next weekend.<br /><br />With love from London,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-57335786353913411742008-10-30T00:36:00.004+00:002012-04-25T07:20:52.118+01:00Travel Update... Because I realize that I have been a little behind with keeping this blog up to speed.<br />
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So let's start with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Budapest</span>. I was in Budapest during my mid-semester break, October 7-10. The city seems to be quaint in comparison to the extensive, populous, and at times overbearing city life of London. Therefore a little break to somewhere less (but definitely still) congested proved to be much appreciated. But probably more important was the fact that I got to spend some good quality time with Meg and Booki, and Liz. Eastern Europe has a totally different vibe to it. Although architecture seems consistent to other areas of Europe that I've seen, and sadly, things just start to look the same after a while. The Eastern region's painfully marked, and perhaps it is that bit of history that has defined the atmospehre I sensed in Budapest. Nazi invasion... Communist presence... From the little I know about Hungary 's history - it seems that this has played an integral role in the everyday conventions of the Hungarian people. They are a lot more to themselves in the public setting. Don't get me wrong, I feel that the general consensus is that Americans are a lot more open with our actions than Europeans - but Eastern Europe seems to take this to a different degree. It was like this in Russia also. Nonetheless, I found Budapest to be different than what I was used to - less globalization. But perhaps the lack of that made my short stay there more "traditonal". Although you've got to give it to McDonald's, Burger King, and KFC for managing to make their appearance. To say the least, one of my favorite parts of the city was the House of Terror. It's not you're happiest place, but it seems to capture an important piece of history that everyone should take note of.<br />
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Now on to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dublin</span>. I was in Dublin this past weekend, October 25-26. I was definitely surprised at how small the city was. Everyone always seems to talk about Dublin when they talk about Ireland, but, to be honest, there was nothing resoundingly "big" about it. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed my stay. There was absolutely nothing wrong with the city. I only expected that it would be bigger. Literally, we woke up early to cover everything in the whole half day of exploring we allocated before having to leave, and we covered it in less than three hours. Granted, we didn't invest time inside Museums, but all the good things to see were definitely seen. And aside from the prominent drinking culture, and the few stereotypical Irish goodies that were inside gift shops, I didn't feel as if I got the full Irish experience. And of course, that was nobody's fault - it's just how things were. But perhaps what I was expecting was all the lush greenery of the countryside... everything that Hollywood seems to represent Ireland as... But what I saw was a smaller version of something I feel I've seen before. Dublin has a lot of modern influence as well. Nonetheless, it was a good visit with VERY entertaining Irish people. (ie: People dancing around with cardboard people and eating the leftovers from your plate without asking!)<br />
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The last few trips coming up: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Barcelona, Spain / Edinburgh, Scotland / Geneva, Switzerland.</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span>With love from London,<br />
CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-20167795092473374552008-10-01T22:50:00.003+01:002012-04-25T07:06:52.651+01:00Bath & Avebury... I turn 20!I spent this past weekend in Bath and Avebury... at the same time, I also turned 20.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Bath:</span> I thoroughly enjoyed Bath. Going through the actual Roman site was quite pleasing as it brought to mind my time in Rome. Hot springs seem to be slightly on the weird end for me, mainly because it's odd seeing hot water spring up from the ground. In the case of Bath, with the beautiful architecture around it, it was a "beautiful oddity". The Roman Baths are not the only thing worth seeing in Bath, however.<br />
The city of Bath is quaint and amusing! I absolutely loved it. The group of girls I was with continuously commented on how Bath is one place we would flock to, if ever we decided to run away from our lives! Find yourself in a humble apartment, open up your own shop in the alleys full of cafe's and shops [both independent and industrial], while basking in a more low-key English city. Quite the life! Our trip to Bath was accompanied with sunny and cool weather. It was the perfect balance. To top it off, the Vanilla Caramel Fudge I had there was TO DIE for!<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Avebury:</span> Was interesting. We saw the much appreciated green countryside that captures the US idea of what "England" is supposed to be, based on its heritage. Based on this understanding, the setting of Avebury, in all of its open lushness, is what you would expect to see. There was a huge rock formation accompanied with sheep. A very small town seemed to exist there, but even still, we had a hard time finding any of the shops... aka, coffee and tea. [= Nonetheless, it was a fun site!<br />
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With love from London,<br />
CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-41659476210067168712008-09-25T01:53:00.000+01:002008-09-25T01:54:03.443+01:00... New BlogFor the actual non-travel related times in life.<br /><a href="http://lifecommittedtomemory.blogspot.com">LIFECOMMITTEDTOMEMORY</a><br /><br />With love from London,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-43746470533283172642008-09-22T15:44:00.000+01:002012-04-25T07:01:39.685+01:00Newcastle upon Tyne...Well, that's what my Dopplr calls it at least. Having spent this past weekend with some more family members - from my mom's side of course, I now find myself on a train, somewhere in England, heading back towards King's Cross - London. I absolutely love that there is free WiFi, because instead of doing my reading, like any good and diligent student... I'm blogging? [=<br />
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Before I get into all the goodness that is the Northeastern coast of England, I just have to note that my interview with Ms. Petra Shepard from Travel Channel International was a success. Minus the chaos that was the Friday afternoon office, it all went smoothly. I start work on Tuesday, October 14th where I will be acting for the most part, as a production assistant. I'm a tad nervous seeing as this is my first ever television related job, BUT... I'm moreso excited because I am confident it will equip me with the necessary industry exposure of the television world. Plus, the focus is travel... It's a perfet fit!<br />
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After the interview, I hopped on a train to Newcastle, where upon arrival, I was met by my mom's cousin, Auntie Weng, her husband - my Uncle Derek, and their son - Thomas. Again, it's great to be able to connect with family members who I have not seen in so many years. In this case, 17. I feel like this has been a resounding theme in my travels in Europe. That is, connecting with people and realizing that my domestic sorroundings and familiar family faces don't just stop in California, or the US. I love being able to rediscover family ties, even if it can be a bit awkard at first. I absolutely loved this weekend! Cathing up on the happenings of life with my aunt, who truly is young at heart... It was like talking to an older sister. Then there's the very informative and much appreicated chats with Uncle Derek about all sorts of different subjects... I love talking to people who know the background of things, it makes you appreicated what you're actually seeing. Then there's Thomas, who's 8. We share the common bond of Harry Potter... I am reminded of how refreshing it is to be around younger kids... My sister would have been 8 this year... It was nice to connect with someone that age, and see what it could have been like. Thomas nicknamed me Ferrari, after I told him that my friends call me "Car". I must say, I rather liked it! [=<br />
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The majority of my weekend was spent doing a lot of exploring. Castles, castles, Hogwarts, oh and more castles... Driving on the coast, watching Newcastle's Millenium Bridge do it's pivoting rotation to let the boats pass through, coffee drinking, walking by the riverbanks, having your breath taken away by the beauty of older architechture, cathedrals, walking on the walls and catching breathtaking views of the modern town, coast, and greenery from a city's built up walls.... I loved it all. It was definitely a nice change, to be away from the main trouist attractions. I really do feel that one gets a sense of what being immersed into the culture is like. It's also a plus being guided around by locals, but nevertheless, I feel that there is an importance in not always seeing what the tourists see when you travel. It reminds me of Greece and talking about the differences between tourist and traveller. The main tourist attractions, which are GREAT, don't get me wrong, tend to some extent cater to the visiting world. And in a sense, a visitor isn't fully expiriencing the actual culture and immersion. Getting away from it all is good in that you really do get a taste of it, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds.<br />
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I thouroughly enjoyed this weekend, and [because I know they will read this at some point] thank my family in Newcastle once again for their hospitality and generousity. I'm sure I will be back again at some point when the door opens again!<br />
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Now, it's back to school mode... sort of... If I get around to it! [=<br />
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With love from somewhere in England,<br />
CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-80220811032947347432008-09-11T23:04:00.000+01:002008-09-11T23:33:38.546+01:00I need to get some shoes, or wellies?Because these Grecian sandals are no longer cutting it. The one thing I am trying so hard not to conform too... Shoes.<br /><br />I decided that I'm going to officially fail at keeping this blog the way that I originally intended for it to be. A travel blog... to talk about the places, faces, experiences... But with this elongated stay in London, I'm finding it hard to leave out the inner journey of everything. So much is happening in the realm of personal growth, that to limit this blog to simply commentary on how wonderful London is, inevitably will not do the city, or my travelogues, any justice.<br /><br />I haven't been to Church in two months. Thank God that people speak English here. I finally made it to Tosin's Church. It turns out he's one of the Campus Ministry staff at Every Nation Christian Church, located in West Kensington. Tonight was a Praise & Prayer event and defintiely much needed. To say the least, there is more clairty when it comes to my faith. I am reminded that I am not here just to do school, or intern, or travel... I'm here because God has allowed it for such a time, and I have brought myself to the inescapable resolution that I cannot waste this time. God is SO present, even more than I thought. I'm excited to see how it unfolds.<br /><br />On other issues, I'm finding it more and more easier to be as Jesus was in Mark 2. It's quite a new door to be walking through. And by acknowleding my own judgements, while at the same time cultivating love, I am thoroughly convinced that God can move through it.<br /><br />And lastly, I am firmly reminding myself that friendship is key to anything and compromise, is something that God has not intended when He has the best ready for you. We'll see how this goes.<br /><br />Very vague indeed. My apologies.<br /><br />With love from London,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-11970234591344284462008-09-09T16:07:00.000+01:002012-04-25T06:59:48.979+01:00There is hardly any sun in most of these pictures...And it is amazing!<br />
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Picadilly's Circus... Kind of like the Times Square of London<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkSir6jzgAR1KD0Wvbv3gw_6gj9lShMcpB5hXxl_zwKd846_SH9MowBxdXJDfQJnUy5zZZWJSlfIiI6lYriahDw7ZmyaAHdGbjaTmPBsZd7OX5ZmFcErQ-6L3JBckASZ6d91jwcD3_XpLw/s1600/IMG_2066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkSir6jzgAR1KD0Wvbv3gw_6gj9lShMcpB5hXxl_zwKd846_SH9MowBxdXJDfQJnUy5zZZWJSlfIiI6lYriahDw7ZmyaAHdGbjaTmPBsZd7OX5ZmFcErQ-6L3JBckASZ6d91jwcD3_XpLw/s640/IMG_2066.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Brighton Pier<br />
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Royal Pavilion in Brighton</div>
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The swans of Hyde Park... Across the street from my flat...<br />
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A double decker bus dedicated to my people...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUDVqYIRRhRdTa-r-DhjR2gbDMdVN_b-bdZRZm5lAAu2-0xGWJSoK8cjFjYpixvGfjtHd7Naw4vOR6jPaydWaLlywyyY3KhbpZwu-20g9wYB-0sByg4GvBxeB_0ScRnX9CnVtrWq83Dc4G/s1600/IMG_2001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUDVqYIRRhRdTa-r-DhjR2gbDMdVN_b-bdZRZm5lAAu2-0xGWJSoK8cjFjYpixvGfjtHd7Naw4vOR6jPaydWaLlywyyY3KhbpZwu-20g9wYB-0sByg4GvBxeB_0ScRnX9CnVtrWq83Dc4G/s640/IMG_2001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Westminister - Big Ben and a Red Phone Booth<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0U6J0BDOZ3OhWCUEMGFYdhd0gTUlWfKedNPlGtr1fz7d8MFOnxsOG2W-WD8O4Axc94VYJMqMx_YmBMRimeXDZRZOCXDJXypsV0moodlm9arU5mHxvVg2D_1jdFvTf1j0sLv-UUDGxmNHr/s1600/IMG_2041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0U6J0BDOZ3OhWCUEMGFYdhd0gTUlWfKedNPlGtr1fz7d8MFOnxsOG2W-WD8O4Axc94VYJMqMx_YmBMRimeXDZRZOCXDJXypsV0moodlm9arU5mHxvVg2D_1jdFvTf1j0sLv-UUDGxmNHr/s640/IMG_2041.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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On the Eye....<br />
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Chinatown<br />
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Tower Bridge</div>
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Thames Riverbank and the London Eye</div>
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Parliment<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxw2TleOn13rvItFTR9IS0g5SGAqB2heJGezi3g9daFuzx6mg53N33Lob8fcWVRQxmf0k3B04exNT0AhcXXKLDjbddOkp3_3nn6Iqoali9grW8ofhkWbGN-OvcuDFAMXCLCOxv0e5vn-E/s1600/IMG_1945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxw2TleOn13rvItFTR9IS0g5SGAqB2heJGezi3g9daFuzx6mg53N33Lob8fcWVRQxmf0k3B04exNT0AhcXXKLDjbddOkp3_3nn6Iqoali9grW8ofhkWbGN-OvcuDFAMXCLCOxv0e5vn-E/s640/IMG_1945.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Buckingham Palace Gates<br />
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Royal Albert Hall</div>
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BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall</div>
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With Love from London,<br />
Carla<br />
<br /></div>Carlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-71449058046715787072008-09-09T15:29:00.000+01:002008-09-09T22:42:44.696+01:00Learning life and accepting my shortcomings...Life is a complicated journey. That's why we need a solid foundation to continually fall back on. I've been in London a little over a week, and I find it outstanding how immediately God can completely throw your world around. 19 years old and 19 days shy of turning 20... Through the years, I have come to realize that I am very much an independent person. I mean really, who in their right mind decides that they want to do a Summer Program in Greece <span style="font-style: italic;">by them self</span>? Not knowing anyone but willing to go anyways. Then decides that they want to go to Italy to visit family they haven't seen in God knows how long, again <span style="font-style: italic;">by them self</span>. Then after that, come to London <span style="font-style: italic;">by them self,</span> and be a art of an Internship/Study Abroad program in which they know no one. A completely new school and new location. Everyone says its a brave thing... But I see how the only thing that keeps me unafraid is knowing that I really am not by myself. And I thank God that I know without a doubt that He is right here with me. And along with that come many many lessons and experiences... My life as of late, has been thrown completely upside down - like, my whole mentality is being transformed a bit... I have also come to realize that in my own independence, I have enabled a haze of fog to eclipse my view of life which has resulted in the somewhat naive lens to which I look through. But that's changing and causing me to learn and re-learn my own life and approaches to it. To acknowledge my own biases, and to tear down some barriers that I have placed upon myself. God calls us to love, and I have finally realized how much I have limited myself when it comes to loving.<br /><br />In Greece and Italy, I felt that God taught me love by seeing the shortcomings of others, and realizing those same faults in my own life. Patience. A certain someone in Greece tested that continuously in my own life. And it was seeing how irritating it could be to complain all the time that caused me to look at my own life and see how much I complain... How much I failed at compromise, and how bratty it was for me to always have things work out for me. By that always being blatantly in my face, God showed me directly what I needed to work on. At the same time, it cultivated love for the one person that irritated me and everyone else. That despite that frustration, there was a place in me that knew that this one person is also the love of Christ's life. And that did it... I set myself aside and loved... And it stretched me, but it also grew me. In Italy, I was surrounded in a setting completely opposite to the home I grew up in. And not to go too much into it, but I've seen that even in having my buttons pushed all the time, and in that irritation, how one act of love and patience can change one's life. By being tangibly exposed to my own faults, I've learned how it needs to be worked on... All at the same time that love begins to resonate more and more into my life.<br /><br />So now in my short time in London, there has been tons of new experiences. I've realized the wall that I've put up. This is the wall that has caused me to be so judgmental without even knowing it. It's the wall that has limited how much I do love by cutting off the very people that need it to hear it. It's the wall that has made so many awkward situations. But God is tearing it down. And I'm not saying that you need to try everything to be able to relate, but from what happened here... I've realized on a whole other level, how much my own naivety and even pride has hurt and fragmented me from loving people. Step outside that Christian bubble a bit and it is one of the most life changing things ever. Not in the sense that I have given up all my values, but that these values are being put into practice and opening up doors of conversation to bring in God's love without a deprecating eye. And that in itself, is what we should be doing. So don't super holy, because all of us judge without even knowing it. And I'm so glad that I've caught that and am dealing with it... Making it better, being open, and seeing how God uses it. I can't quite explain this past week... I just know that there are things that I have kind of upheld for myself that are being tested and shaped, pruned and polished. It's left me in confusion, but on a continuous search for God. And I think it's a good thing to not be so solid about everything... Because then, there is more room for Him.<br /><br />I feel like everything I have learned has been about me growing and maturing... I kind of feel like its selfish. But then I realize that, if I'm not addressing these then things, how is God going to use me to bless others? Acknowledging my own issues has opened doors for me to talk to people around me... and maybe that's why it's like this.<br /><br />Anyways, London.... still amazing! What can I say?<br /><br />With love from this rainy city,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-67486032970087325442008-09-04T10:21:00.000+01:002008-09-06T22:31:40.675+01:00Bipolar Weather...Is what I have to say about London's weather. One minute, the suns out and your sweating because of all the walking, then it pours. What is this? Nonetheless, it fails to rob me from the excitement and my new found love for this place. It's hard to believe that all of it is literally my backyard. Hyde Park, and through that gigantic mass of nature, you can hit Buckingham Palace... Go down a little further and you end up and the river's edge. The walk along the river takes you past Parliament and Big Ben, the London Eye, London Bridge... Oxford Street.... Amazing shopping! And I kid you not, I have already found a store that has clothes at a better deal than even the States. I thought I should also add that I found Dominion Theatre... aka, Hillsong London on Sundays! You can say that I am fully enjoying myself here, not to mention, am getting quite the hang of taking and navigating the labyrinths of streets and tube directions.<br /><br />Academically, the BU London staff has grilled us for the past two FULL 7 hour days with Orientation Lectures... aka, lectures on England and all that jazz. I appreciated it, but it was rather long. I start my classes today, which should be interesting. Being around all these private school kids somehow motivates me to try harder... Maybe because I realize the weaknesses in the public school system, but nonetheless... I thoroughly love UCSD. I do feel though, that I will come out of this a better student. Which is why i'm her anyways, right?<br /><br />I do want to add something to this post, mainly because it's a testimony of encouragement that God never leaves. No matter where you go, you can't escape His presence. So as with anything new that you do, the first days are rough. And my first day here was indeed just that. So, I just started to stand on Psalms 16... Particularly versed 8-11. It's not fun when you're in a comletely new enviornment, new school, and hardly know anyone.<br /><br />8 I have set the LORD always before me.<br /> Because he is at my right hand,<br /> I will not be shaken.<br /><br />9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;<br /> my body also will rest secure,<br /><br />10 because you will not abandon me to the grave,<br /> nor will you let your Holy One see decay.<br /><br />11 You have made known to me the path of life;<br /> you will fill me with joy in your presence,<br /> with eternal pleasures at your right hand.<br /><br />Standing on this, I just asked God for some sign of comfort... Mainly becasue I knew He meant for me to be here for this divine and ordained season. Well, the day of our boat tour [the next day from the first], I met Tosin at the information fair - a British guy who would help me check out his Church... And then, I saw this guy wearing a InterVaristy shirt. I still have yet to ask him about it, but it was like a reminder that God was still with me. Then on the boat, I met Katie... She ends up being a Christian and used to be in InterVarsity at BU. So that whole day was seemed to be an evident reminder that God was with me.<br /><br />Since then things have indeed been picking up and getting better. London is an amazing place and I am thrilled that it gets to be a part of my home for the next 3 months!<br /><br />With love from London,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-20869394258963925362008-09-01T09:58:00.001+01:002008-09-01T13:09:46.974+01:00London welcomed me with rain...And it was absolutely wonderful. After two months of roasting and putting on ten shades of darkness, thanks to the wretched rays of the sun... a little bit of my favorite weather made up for the horrible layout of Gatwick Airport. Why did I just not fly into Heathrow like all the normal people? It was going up and down a number to escalators, just to get to passport control, then more escalators to baggage claim... then an elevator to take a train to South Terminal, wait another 15 miutes, 30 minute train ride on the Gatwick Express, up more escalators to find a taxi, and thanks to traffic... 15 pounds for a normally 5 pound ride... Not to mention, as nice as my driver was, I think he took the the long way now that I've begun to recognize the streets a bit. Anyways, aside from that nonsense of mine, London is great. I don't think the culture shcok is too bad. A lot of it feels the same, but I give the credit to the not so different language communication. I love this whole city feel enviornment and not to hectic ambiance that make up the heartbeat of London life.. well, thus far.<br /><br />The Crofton, the building I'm staying in is super cute. I think my roommates, Maddy and Melissa (Who btw. are really nice. They're music performance majors and I find it funny how they are always getting into musical debates, and I just sit and watch, not really knowing what on earth they are saying!), and I lucked out. Our room, which is a triple is very roomy. And our kitchen is fantastic! Minus, I have yet to learn how to use it more, ahem, cooking. I got the grocery shopping done, and I do have to admit, it's an odd feeling having to cook for yourself. UCSD and the luxuries of Cafe V and OVT are no longer available to me. [= Starbucks is a few blocks around the corner... And don't judge because I haven't had it for 2 months. So I thouroughly enjoyed my 15 minutes of coffee and listening to the jazz that was playing in the background of the local 'bucks. There are a good amount of coffee shops near our 43 Harrington Gardens where our classroos are, so it looks like it'll be coffee happy for me once again!<br /><br />Today a representative from one of the local nondenominational Churches came to our student fair. I totally made a friend and have a Church lined up to go to. It's a great feeling. I miss being in Church, and after two months of not being able to go, I am most excited for this Sunday!<br /><br />We're getting ready to go on our building's "Academic Boat Tour" which I think will be great. Yay for history and sight seeing! Yay London!<br /><br />Until the next time!<br /><br />With love from London,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-78250486314250940522008-08-22T19:38:00.000+01:002008-08-22T20:09:39.854+01:00London Calling: 9 More Days!So, I'm sad to say that as of late, there is not much to update on. I've pretty much covered the basis of what to see as a tourist in Rome, and have spent the last week either in front of the television, or as in the past few days, in front of laptop. Quite lame I suppose seeing as I am in Rome... But then again - maybe you would call it settling in? I don't know. All I have to say is that The Filipino Channel airs some very entertaining shows and not to mention I am totally brushing up on some Tagalog. Mom and Dad you should be proud, you've got yourself a nearly "Quadro-linual" daughter, haha! [This is secretly another pitch for my dad to get it cabled into our house back home]<br /><br />On an exciting note... I leave for London in 9 days, and as like my initial feelings before leaving for Greece... The nervousness is taking a little bit more of a precedence than the excitement. Although, I think we all know that'll change once I get there. I've met my two roommates [through Facebook of course] who are actually really good friends. The both of them go to BU and are going to be doing the music program in London. I've been chatting with one of them an she seems very nice. We've already made plans to jam together with my limited guitar and singing abilities and I'm sure, here amazing violin skills! 9 days seems so close.... Yay!<br /><br />Lastly, I just want to note that the bugs here in Rome seem to adore me. My legs are covered with itchy bug bites and it's driving me nuts! Greece was a lot kinder I have to say.<br /><br />Well, this is all for now!<br /><br />With love from Rome,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-1100604896344727502008-08-14T13:34:00.000+01:002012-04-25T06:32:00.724+01:00Thank the Lord for a day of WiFi and here are the Italy Pics!<div style="text-align: center;">
These are some snapshots from Italy, so far.</div>
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The Colosseum<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHHYj43EDcnxrR58bS6LnPLDBatBRX0EgEO0BKCKx74V9WUaOCRYqLu0NfADJy0Hnrdp2VkYfYxrxvbSLJSrmhO3mnoc6eqjDiYGL9OxQGpJ9vJMmFfcUV5po_3591fznLTqMmrZm-ig6/s1600/IMG_1727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrHHYj43EDcnxrR58bS6LnPLDBatBRX0EgEO0BKCKx74V9WUaOCRYqLu0NfADJy0Hnrdp2VkYfYxrxvbSLJSrmhO3mnoc6eqjDiYGL9OxQGpJ9vJMmFfcUV5po_3591fznLTqMmrZm-ig6/s400/IMG_1727.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nxFvtTYSpYnA2ac4TsiNoFK7mkJG8JMbxCypbje5m0o2nN-OJ7l9blkAQEFUe_lYyBbdoqdbONp6jtfjWCWCjmkbX5vk4h4aWW3JS3vxF3ZhCT_xbUwEaYNw8zDnjhvbgPYBkqB4naz1/s1600/IMG_1760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nxFvtTYSpYnA2ac4TsiNoFK7mkJG8JMbxCypbje5m0o2nN-OJ7l9blkAQEFUe_lYyBbdoqdbONp6jtfjWCWCjmkbX5vk4h4aWW3JS3vxF3ZhCT_xbUwEaYNw8zDnjhvbgPYBkqB4naz1/s400/IMG_1760.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrPF_dxpLvV2PO5rlsu2RA1zcdN3mwUWTog4mfceKnq-6k1ksNhr_474JeUdIe9UffMO0fSpXOPNo1jlhjqtTJyE8ZIkQBY5LtvwOCbQ9Cbg3GgAzI-3ReMlYV0zOfCmHz-Ulip03I0E3/s1600/IMG_1771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrPF_dxpLvV2PO5rlsu2RA1zcdN3mwUWTog4mfceKnq-6k1ksNhr_474JeUdIe9UffMO0fSpXOPNo1jlhjqtTJyE8ZIkQBY5LtvwOCbQ9Cbg3GgAzI-3ReMlYV0zOfCmHz-Ulip03I0E3/s400/IMG_1771.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The Pantheon</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagJCbRxs9rZpVq7i22_rQ4FNDjbKqydAP2i6i9hdlWR9X_s_s_D6tDqGX1Kyl6U7Ny6JdnnKvCHYDxmdo8ag7BZPEhA3mUhgjXx_un3_2s0ArrYvGkijUV5_K3piHB3J3EQYHo5tZ_qgI/s1600/IMG_1505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagJCbRxs9rZpVq7i22_rQ4FNDjbKqydAP2i6i9hdlWR9X_s_s_D6tDqGX1Kyl6U7Ny6JdnnKvCHYDxmdo8ag7BZPEhA3mUhgjXx_un3_2s0ArrYvGkijUV5_K3piHB3J3EQYHo5tZ_qgI/s400/IMG_1505.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmYCzSXhjDRsWtgT82f63LP2XURH83b94i-2hOeblsabSFWllGl_uKycW9ab6A4TevDKs-EaVERhMsak87bbpjubJkYpWhxvVv53FBHIAPYwEUsvrAOPDbkUx8R4xR9XWx1j6SCt1CBPg/s1600/IMG_1513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmYCzSXhjDRsWtgT82f63LP2XURH83b94i-2hOeblsabSFWllGl_uKycW9ab6A4TevDKs-EaVERhMsak87bbpjubJkYpWhxvVv53FBHIAPYwEUsvrAOPDbkUx8R4xR9XWx1j6SCt1CBPg/s400/IMG_1513.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_AZMDLCPtELpo7YX-2x92ywOskzO9krvaB1MT9VnIEf1X_kgRpcTE10g9bniL26HFoEBzJ90gD8xWXjzJeeqFzgsHLgjV6XFaepfjzEpmMTIDq7Ad30A2RHUXES6P2wEPuVJ1WWCgDSfL/s1600/IMG_1518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_AZMDLCPtELpo7YX-2x92ywOskzO9krvaB1MT9VnIEf1X_kgRpcTE10g9bniL26HFoEBzJ90gD8xWXjzJeeqFzgsHLgjV6XFaepfjzEpmMTIDq7Ad30A2RHUXES6P2wEPuVJ1WWCgDSfL/s400/IMG_1518.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Venice</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzyMiJFuleokstyo0Bg65O9gg7iSyEUHCk5PlvnDcmSN0gbOrT7lKhXuhUUjm25NvsQeGbSr-87q9swGAqzfepVBXdHNksk75sABbF3Rb6186gQfsH4HXW_TYz00F7WFx7ohVeH1Df8ZP/s1600/IMG_1554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzyMiJFuleokstyo0Bg65O9gg7iSyEUHCk5PlvnDcmSN0gbOrT7lKhXuhUUjm25NvsQeGbSr-87q9swGAqzfepVBXdHNksk75sABbF3Rb6186gQfsH4HXW_TYz00F7WFx7ohVeH1Df8ZP/s400/IMG_1554.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhla6QxKfKS-s3OvmT6ZeYcnKHQGnUJyFtkrsEs6liXPM_T2w4AYvQkSaJxtwZOoLrqaY85Eu31qid-vOK0f2EMcZUtprxraKFkfoJsMKNa0gL1gHegjS3sp_anGYJJBrP36JQjDzb8Go4Y/s1600/IMG_1570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhla6QxKfKS-s3OvmT6ZeYcnKHQGnUJyFtkrsEs6liXPM_T2w4AYvQkSaJxtwZOoLrqaY85Eu31qid-vOK0f2EMcZUtprxraKFkfoJsMKNa0gL1gHegjS3sp_anGYJJBrP36JQjDzb8Go4Y/s400/IMG_1570.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBs2tY-uv-x7s3VWaqEBgNahyjhcE90jWqfSbp9RPctQVtw36m6-2dqDDsGLAAHGlFk8YP7m3OjQAJ236ajIf008ZXIGp1YcTLWXlogTkzrKxfPsmUaar-xfQ7YhFJ6kZhKoD5C5HWYjw/s1600/IMG_1591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBs2tY-uv-x7s3VWaqEBgNahyjhcE90jWqfSbp9RPctQVtw36m6-2dqDDsGLAAHGlFk8YP7m3OjQAJ236ajIf008ZXIGp1YcTLWXlogTkzrKxfPsmUaar-xfQ7YhFJ6kZhKoD5C5HWYjw/s400/IMG_1591.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhesLQU4ptg-MgC7TE8OABDwfMYbrCBUFzc3XHyj1LkIkhIII6VCg_HRu9laql1O59TKN9wfr5o3ZNEJl_hF7thqWXBYGrU5Bd-jeIJUi9cjspz3_wpUl_Pn1MUJ0RS4K0JUq6nCnd9au3_/s1600/IMG_1652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhesLQU4ptg-MgC7TE8OABDwfMYbrCBUFzc3XHyj1LkIkhIII6VCg_HRu9laql1O59TKN9wfr5o3ZNEJl_hF7thqWXBYGrU5Bd-jeIJUi9cjspz3_wpUl_Pn1MUJ0RS4K0JUq6nCnd9au3_/s400/IMG_1652.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Vatican<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKyXzyEZU4mAMKC48nsWqq7lv0F8wWcJiwmjMIMpH1aAuGZeg8iAZDQPPLh288rSPSJpjqprw_X4wbcwjbsCgEzknwvU_PQesibLjoeh6Mi0wyIRfTxEJnFEgkgAg5-MlAbenzZBLe2Gn/s1600/IMG_1299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKyXzyEZU4mAMKC48nsWqq7lv0F8wWcJiwmjMIMpH1aAuGZeg8iAZDQPPLh288rSPSJpjqprw_X4wbcwjbsCgEzknwvU_PQesibLjoeh6Mi0wyIRfTxEJnFEgkgAg5-MlAbenzZBLe2Gn/s400/IMG_1299.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4us9-0EaLCuRREnbA3pKVhOpVwNO7ZRzM3ormpwEJKr7Hu3GPO1xpvLmG_WIuOZgty7fQlp0L_zjmXw7l89fSDK7wKDAhLaZVMPetcHD7dF2YOer1ULEcSUjxbaIg7hHCgGtaeqpD9vv/s1600/IMG_1387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4us9-0EaLCuRREnbA3pKVhOpVwNO7ZRzM3ormpwEJKr7Hu3GPO1xpvLmG_WIuOZgty7fQlp0L_zjmXw7l89fSDK7wKDAhLaZVMPetcHD7dF2YOer1ULEcSUjxbaIg7hHCgGtaeqpD9vv/s400/IMG_1387.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Piazza Navona<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib55ncc4VYlh2Rf5nOw4caliJ2sxjLeBZBp0GDveTM233E67vC_Vmpjir3zL8LkYqicyq4Do4rbTYOS_gYF3LKwQgVgN_G-mr1k-7L_7zQi8QDsR_zCH4_gCyCNp3fhW1scPwNNuZlUisZ/s1600/IMG_1464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib55ncc4VYlh2Rf5nOw4caliJ2sxjLeBZBp0GDveTM233E67vC_Vmpjir3zL8LkYqicyq4Do4rbTYOS_gYF3LKwQgVgN_G-mr1k-7L_7zQi8QDsR_zCH4_gCyCNp3fhW1scPwNNuZlUisZ/s400/IMG_1464.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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St. Angels Castle</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWUyzczT3cNj0-MsyR9fsxXE1-8MwWVaZoHAEIrMcr9pIfk-mnaYXEqOBqg9t8o1Fq7Of7kDdCxz9G6ZSsLNfLSopTnuCwxC-0k4Nz5DMs0Myltl3tQfpwIYXobTPN3JnW0KuZXhnB9dD/s1600/IMG_1310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWUyzczT3cNj0-MsyR9fsxXE1-8MwWVaZoHAEIrMcr9pIfk-mnaYXEqOBqg9t8o1Fq7Of7kDdCxz9G6ZSsLNfLSopTnuCwxC-0k4Nz5DMs0Myltl3tQfpwIYXobTPN3JnW0KuZXhnB9dD/s320/IMG_1310.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpqoNAOwcqr4Xl1FoVPyi9jgvH6PaPFZRr_ypKOeMRH3jBPiP2TPXxIGlratN6LtBqlR-qhAo-cfFTP9B47uqc71QJ1Av8HxLnbdWinN1WibrrIjPlNmPd35ewPG9FTbu5LGccBH52brL/s1600/IMG_1324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpqoNAOwcqr4Xl1FoVPyi9jgvH6PaPFZRr_ypKOeMRH3jBPiP2TPXxIGlratN6LtBqlR-qhAo-cfFTP9B47uqc71QJ1Av8HxLnbdWinN1WibrrIjPlNmPd35ewPG9FTbu5LGccBH52brL/s400/IMG_1324.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX-kOaJqEjcce9OD3ip9cqd1wWbP-yoZCGJ8NYcS174L5w1YkTNDtsXCcCjlFKC9mKY5trnX8uTOYvGWjg91_fRmqsy9U561NqlGy8-GubBY6SOfv8NP8SfIZw9BGKd58cYnFTFGigk18H/s1600/IMG_1346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX-kOaJqEjcce9OD3ip9cqd1wWbP-yoZCGJ8NYcS174L5w1YkTNDtsXCcCjlFKC9mKY5trnX8uTOYvGWjg91_fRmqsy9U561NqlGy8-GubBY6SOfv8NP8SfIZw9BGKd58cYnFTFGigk18H/s400/IMG_1346.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The Pyramid<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFguuUqKxOcLN6Cu3Y8V2aEXAaiu5tHxSMhjQHrhvESiidopL8HOcP31aj7u_5FgBm75wdfvW2YTnERIj8gf7FSNDOpVR7olHwTFqZmICVdpThr49CVa32oTbS_68XPYMyGHMXx1qDZM6/s1600/IMG_1351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFguuUqKxOcLN6Cu3Y8V2aEXAaiu5tHxSMhjQHrhvESiidopL8HOcP31aj7u_5FgBm75wdfvW2YTnERIj8gf7FSNDOpVR7olHwTFqZmICVdpThr49CVa32oTbS_68XPYMyGHMXx1qDZM6/s400/IMG_1351.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Trevi Fountain<br />
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Santi, L'Aquila<br />
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With Love from Rome,<br />
CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-80517893599708272422008-08-11T15:49:00.000+01:002008-08-11T15:55:59.568+01:00A quick word on Venice.We took the overnight train to Venice on August 8th. The train, minus the lack of sleep seriously reminded me of Harry Potter and the Hogwarts Express. You really do get your own little compartment and everything. If only we had this back in the States... Well anyways, we get to Venice, and it's way too early. The town was deserted, but it was a much appreicated contrast to what it was like a few hours later, with people just swarming like ants in all crevices that was to be walked on. Venice to me is like a theme park. It's a little surreal. Absolutely NO CARS and everything, I mean everything really is on water. Even the bus system - boats... on water. I loved it actually! The Venetian architecture was present everywhere, of course. It was just a little weird to put together because I had seen it everywhere except for Venice itself. I seemed to have an underappreication for it at this point. Nonethless, Venice was a lot of fun. There's alot of high end shopping to do there, as well as really amazing structures. And it's really, Venice is more than the romanitic gandala ride through the streets and canals.<br /><br />Pictures of Italy probably won't be up until I get to London and have more stable interent. So until then, I hope my words suffice.<br /><br />Much love from Rome,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-74757332398767407912008-08-11T15:09:00.000+01:002008-08-11T15:49:00.042+01:00An excerpt from my journal...I want to jot down the words from my most recent entry from my personal journal because it seems to sum up the entirety of what I am internally going through here in Rome. It's turning out to be more than I thought it would. At first, coming to Rome was a one month vacation before a semester in London and a chance to get to know some of my mom's side better. What it's turned into is an opportunity of countless and new ways to discover who I am. It's funny because I thought I knew who I was before all this, but yet, being here has caused me to realize that there are so many more aspects to the person that I am - aspects that I had not yet touched upon. So this entry may be a little different. It's not exactly the travel blog aesthetic that I usually write... It may be a little more personal. If you all don't mind, I'd like to let you into that world.<br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;">07 August 2008 "A Mid-Mid Life Evaluation"</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Being here in Rome has really given me so many opportunities to think, reflect, and discover. Most of my train of thought has been filtering through the channel that is, "Life's Direction". When I really think about it, I realize just how blessed a life it is that I lead. Yesterday, on the bus, coming back from The Vatican and Pantheon, my cousin Jay told me that out of all my cousins on my mom's side, I was the luckiest. And this really got me thinking because it was a familiar statement. I've always been told, by both sides of my family that I'm doing big things, and that It's good that I'm taking advantages of all the opportunites being given to me. For that I could thank my dad, simply because he raised me thinking that I should never let opportunities pass me by... That I should always go for them, no matter if they work out or not. Well, to refer back to the statement, I wouldn't call it lucky. Rather, I would call it truly being blessed because it really does exemplify the love of God at work. At least for my life, I see how putting God above all else, or at least trying to... How easily He directs your path, and makes them successful... Despite let downs in life, He gets you to where you need to be, at the right time. I see how loving God with all of your heart will indeed supply all your needs, not just spiritually either. And all this I'm finidng more and more evident the more I evaluate my place in this world, and my own life. I'm thinking... why am I doing what I'm doing. How crazy does my life sound right now... I've been abroad for 5 weeks, I've got an internship with THE TRAVEL CHANNEL lined up. I get to see and travel and expirience... All before I'm 20. And it's scary, but thrilling... And I just wonder "Why God? Why me?" It makes me wonder exactly what kind of plan it is God has for my life. I'm looking back at my childhood, and I see that I was always doing something - getting involved somehow... Always aspiring and having some kind of drive towards something. And it seems that that has carried itself throughout my life so far. I've always been told that God had something big for my life, and it's kind of crazy because I feel like it is actually starting NOW. I just pray that I'm ready for it. I knew that this year, 2008, God was going to launch me into the next chapter of my life... It seems like He really has. And now that it's all happening, I give God all glory for these blessings. Perhaps understanding the context of my own life, and my expiriences as a young Filipino-American woman are my testimony... I don't have to second guess it anymore, because there is inspiration here. </span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></em><br />With all that said, I feel like my life is unraveling here - in a good way. For the first time in my life, I've had to come to terms with the dualities in my own nationalities, and trying hard to explain that to a 16 year old cousin whose level of thinking at the point of ignorance, and trying not to be so sensitive to his hard comments. Although, he is a great person. It accentuates the opportunities to cultivate more patience and love in my life. My cousin tells me I'm not an American, that I shouldn't cheer for the US team duing the Olympics... And to tell you the truth, if it weren't for me coming half way across the world, I probably would never have the revelation and appreication for both nationalities that I do now. I've always known I was Filipino, duh. I've also always known that my parents did raise me in the exact tradtional Filipino household. I grew up in the US, and the American culture became my familiar ground. And I thought I was okay with that. And I spend almost 20 years like that, and I get to Rome, and it's like, whoah. There's so much I don't know about the Philippines. My sense of Filipino history does not go past WWII and McArthur, and unless the US was involved, I didn't know. I find that quite embarassing when my couisns ask me why I dond't this or that. It's like I'm not Filipino. But who can really blame me? I went to school under American education. And honestly, I thank my cousin for the scrutiny because now I have more of a drive and passion to learn more of my own Filipino culture than I knew before. I'm speaking more in Ilocano than I ever have been and it feels great to utilize my bilingual-ness. I want to learn Tagalog, I want to continue catching up with Filipino pop culture thanks to TFC (The Filipino Channel), and all that good stuff. But at the same, I am an American, and I appreciate ever single blessing that I have had because of this nationality. My whole life is invested in this country and I don't second guess any of that. I love being an American, and I love being a Filipino. And so thankful to be fully exposed to both. So thank you Rome, of all places, and thank you to my cousin, who I do truly love... But thank you for presenting to me the chance to pay more attention the dualities of who I am.<br /><br />To say the least, it's been tremendously pleasant to be "meeting" other cousins and family members here in Italy. It's amazing that where I thought my family boundaries ended... It doesn't. I have family throughout the world, and that's a crazy thought, again. Too much thinking for me these days though, so I'll stop here.<br /><br />With love from Rome, and a special thanks for reading this one,<br />Carla<br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></em><br /><br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></em>Carlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-74068470377009477842008-08-07T20:34:00.001+01:002008-08-07T20:39:23.074+01:00Limited with internet time, but I must post!<span style="font-size:85%;">This may be the most rushed and hurried post ever, but I must update! </span><span style="font-size:85%;">It such a stinker when you have to pay for internet and it's so far away!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Okay, so I'm out of the mountains, and this week has been spent touring around Rome. So, I found out that the fountain I saw was called, Trevi Fountain. I'm sure that will ring a bell, and plus, it's in all the movies set in Rome. The other day I went to Castle St. Angelo, and walked around the Piazza Navona. I've also done the Vatican, which was incredible! Minus the heat and all the people, and the narrow stairs... It was breathtaking and stunning!<br /><br />Tomorrow, my cousins and I are heading to Venice for the day. I'm excited!!<br /><br />Lastly, I feel like being here in Rome has been this journey of self-discovery. There's much to say about this, so I'll update when I have more time! Nonetheless, I'm doing well... Just a tad bit homesick, but I'm good!<br /><br />Much love from Rome,<br />Carla</span>Carlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-55803589888363713042008-08-01T20:15:00.000+01:002008-08-01T21:55:02.794+01:00When in Rome...It's my third day here and I am currently in Santi, L'aquila, Italy for the weekend. This is a town about an hour and a half outside of Rome where another one of my Uncles and cousin lives. It's a very quaint mountainside and vert beautiful. As soon as I get better internet, I'll be able to post some pictures. But until then, just know that it is breathtaking, serene, quiet, and very different than in Greece. It seems like that here though, or at least in my perspective. Don't get me wrong, Italy is an amazing place, an amazing country... And it really is shaped like a boot! I felt like a little kid, looking out my window in the plane, and just being dumbfounded by the actual boot shaped mass of land! But for some reason, and it may be just because of my own bias... I find Greece just a wee bit more beautiful. Nonetheless, the two are unique in their own ways and I appreciate both. And I feel VERY priveleged to be able to spend a good amount of time in each.<br /><br />Anyways, it's a shame that I don't remember the names of the things I've seen so far. On my first day we [my two cousins and I] saw most of the famous fountains, of which one was the one where you make a wish with a coin and throw it in backwards. We also dropped by the Republic, Piazza Venezia... and sadly, other things that I don't remember the name of. But perhaps by the time I get pictures up, I'll have time to look things up. I admit it's hard when you don't have a tourguide around who can give you enough background information to compile itself into one history book. Rome is exquisite in its architecture. VERY VENETIAN, which is such a contrast to that of Greece, although at some points you can find Venetian buidlings in areas with Roman infulence. Now, for a little while, let me get all nerdy on you all... I find it amazing to be in area, where in Greece, we talked so much about. It's absolutely funny how everyone in Greece talks about how the Romans stole everything they ever did and tried to call it their own. For example, the Greek Parthenon and the Roman Pantheon. But besides that, me seeing it so many centuries later, borrowed and unorigianal as Greece may see it, Rome is beautiful. After this mountain experience, my cousins and I have plans to see Venice and Florence, as well as finish up Rome. I'm very much excited about this, and it's weird because Italy for me is a vacation. And unlike Greece, I'm not quite the traveller because I am going to see all the touristy sites with perspective lens of a toursit. But then again, I'm not exactly a tourist seeing as I'm kind of immersed with the locals, not quite living in the moreso comforts of a hotel... I'm staying in a humble little apartment with my 2 cousins... Not quite touristy there if you get what I mean.<br /><br />Nonetheless, I am overwhelmed with just how blessed this adventure has been so far. I'm going on about 5 weeks being abroad now - and it's a blessing that I'm not as homesick as I could be. But to reassure the family and friends back home, I constantly think about you all, and always try to picture you all being here with me. Well, besides the not-quite-so-homesick schpeel, being here in Rome is awesome. I have a chance to get to know some of my mom's side of the family better, which I know she is absolutely ECSTATIC about. All my life, I've been close to just my dad's side, so it's awesome to get to know my mom's brothers and sister-inlaws, as well as cousins on her side. Most of the time, I've spent with my cousin Junior... We exchange language lessons - he fills me in on basic Italian and I get to teach him English so he can communicate with everyone lese better. It's actually quite an amazing tradeoff if you know what I mean. [=<br /><br />I figure I'll end here for now. Pictures will hopefully come soon!<br />With love from Rome,<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-3513839630149424402008-07-26T22:36:00.000+01:002012-04-25T05:58:15.680+01:00Some entertainment & Photos<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are some pictures taken from all over Greece:</div>
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The canal in Corinth<br />
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The Temple of Poseidon, Suinio<br />
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Me and a Spartan!<br />
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Ithaca, where we got off the boat and swam in its waters!<br />
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Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia... The 12th most famous in the world.<br />
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Melissani Cave, Kefalonia<br />
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The view after climbing 999 steps to the Castle of Palmidi, Napflion<br />
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In Olympia, the site for the Olympic Ruins<br />
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Some kids doing traditional Greek Dancing in the main street of Sami, Kefalonia. I loved it!</div>
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Athens knows how to do Starbucks!<br />
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We've made our way back to Athens! Hotel Palmyra has wireless, so I have managed to upload all of these images! I hope you all enjoy! For those on Facebook, my albums are updated as well!<br /><br />With love from Glyfada (A suburb of Athens),<br />CarlaCarlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7012865228479805849.post-68327070871168663092008-07-25T12:15:00.000+01:002008-07-25T12:36:21.690+01:00Kefalonia<span style="font-size:85%;">Today is our last day in Kefalonia. Today was also our last day of class. It's a little bit surprising how fast time flies, and I cannot believe how near I am to the end of this chapter. But, it's not over yet...<br /><br />We had to read Louis deBernieres' <span style="font-style: italic;">Corelli's Mandolin</span> for class. It's already supposed to be read, and yet I'm still trucking through it. If I can take a moment to recommend something, I defnintely suggest you pick this book up. It's a moving stroy about a few interchanging characters and their lives on this island during World War II. Anyways, there was also a movie made based on this book which was shot, no surprise, here in Kafalonia. It's amazing to walk down the streets here and see how much pride the people take in the fact that this movie was filmed here. Picutres from the film, a diner that is actually called Captain Corelli's (which by the way has some amazing bugers), getting on a taxi and having our driver point out Nicholas Cage's villa and areas where the film were shot...Reading this book and seeing this movie, has somehow in a weird way, connected me to the locals here. <br /><br />Besides that though, this island is rich in it's history - especially in the WWII eras. Our class drove to Argostoli, and from there saw the exectuion sites on the sides of the road where German soliders killled off thousands of Italian soldiers, after Moussilini's surrender. Memorials made by the Greeks for them... It pains me to come to the realization that here I am, relaxing.... When only a few decade ago, this island was filled with such atrosity and violence. It's always different when you know the history behind a place you visit, rather than just blindly going. For most of this trip, I realize that I truly apprecaite the education behind it... I feel like I can connect.<br /><br />On a lighter note, yesterday our class took a day cruise around the island of Ithaca. It was a lot of fun, of course, seeing as we did nothing productive of the sort. I feel like Greece now is more than just a destination for me. It's the place that has given me this journey that I am now living. It has presented me with so many oppotunities to grow and develop (as I've said before). So to me, it's more than the mere beauty of this country and all fo it's breathtaking islands. It's more than the anient ruins, the history, the souvalki and pita, etc. etc. It is the context in which I have had the opportunity to cultivate and encourage some discoverey. Knowledge wise, personally, and spiritually. On that note, yesterday Ithaca presented me with the opportunity to break a little phobia of mine. Drowning when you're 3 years old does not erase itself easily from a person's memory Up until yesterday it's scarred me with a phobia of deep water. And yes, I can swim, but of course I never did in anything where my foot could not touch the bottom. But the water was pristine, and one would be foolish to not jump in. So, I figure at some point I've got to break this fear... Why not in Greece? So I get off the boat and plnuge myself into the beautiful water - my feet far from the ground. Then I realized what I've missed out on all this time. As I let the ocean carry me, it was a rush of freedom and peace all together, that I had never expireienced iin water until now. And for Greece, I am thankful.<br /><br />So, the growth here... I've never appreciated God's work in nature so much in my life. I guess I was pretty ignorant to it. I never cared, and now I realize, through everything I've seen in Greece, that nature is one way that God expresses His love for us. Sorrounding us in beauty that has an innate ability to awe us and inspire us. To escape from the destruction that we ourselves have created in this world, and really look at the natural beauty of it - it can speak wonders to our lives. If only we let it.<br /><br />Until the next time.<br />With love from Sami, Kefalonia,<br /><br />Carla<br /></span>Carlahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10587933590051840789noreply@blogger.com2