miss independent.

Yesterday, I had my first day of class!

 {Or as the British would say, I had my first "module"}

Tuesdays, I don't have class. {Trade off: I have class Fridays}

Before I go on, here is a photo of the entrance of my school! 

I have to swipe my student i.d. to pass through those metal things...whatever they're called. But it's like Disneyland! 

Anyways, with yesterday being the first day of class, it was also the first day I rode the tube alone--the first day I was out and about in London alone.

My family and friends know that I don't like being alone. I always like having someone go with me to the store, to walk to class, to have lunch with, or just someone sit and watch TV.

However, I love being on my own in this city.

ISA friends if you're reading this: you're great, and I truly love hanging out with you all! I promise. You guys are the best!

I have spent the last week in London constantly with people. I am making new friends here, and I love it. We talk about home, make plans for the semester, and are always excited as we discover

 and explore London together, as a group.

But there is something about independently discovering a new city--specifically London, that is magical.

The last two days, I have been on my own. 

I have been getting lost, finding my way, and discovering shortcuts. Walking around by myself with nobody to talk to, gives me time to think, pray, and take it all in. It makes me feel more appreciative, blessed, thankful, confident, and successful. I take in the quirks and beauty of my surroundings.

Let me tell you: figuring out my way throughout this city all on my own is one of the most rewarding tasks I have ever accomplished. 

Today, I went to Hyde Park to read The Scarlet Letter for my American Literature class. 

Talk about a nice study spot!

It was beautiful, but super windy, so I relocated to Starbucks. I sat and read for almost two hours, then walked to the ISA office. On my way, I stopped into "Boots" and bought some toiletries. After leaving Boots and continuing on towards the ISA office, I found three friends spending their day independently exploring London, as I was. {Although I love exploring on my own, it was extremely comforting to see a few familiar faces!} I then got lost trying to find the bank, but eventually found what I was looking for. While making my way back to my dorm, I felt proud. 

I now know what people are talking about when they say how rewarding it is to learn a new city while living/studying abroad for an extended period of time.

I no longer feel like a tourist. I am learning London, and making it my {second*} city. 

*It may appear that I am having a love affair with California. Don't worry, California forever has my whole heart.