Just me...

Moving

2009-12-03T18:41:00.005-05:00

Dear readers.

In answer to your unspoken questions. Yes I am still alive and yes I plan on continuing to blog. BUT... [smile] I feel the need for a new star. It is with a degree of sadness that I have come to this decision. I've loved blogging on "Just Me" over the last two years. I've met some great blogging friends, enjoyed sharing my life with the world, and loved the process of self-exploration. This experiment has also reminded me that writing is something that can be fun, exciting, relaxing. (Four years of undergrad tended to leave me a little jaded when it came to expressing my thoughts in the written word. [smile]) However, to continue to feel the same way about writing I feel I need a bit of a change... a new volume in which I can continue my journey. And with that I would like to announce that I'm moving to a new webpage. The website will continue in a similar blogging format though I'll have a few more subject specific pages (books, movies, etc.). I'll also be launching a cooking section, as I've taken on the role of chef since I returned home. Keep your eyes peeled for a Julie/Julia type challenge that I plan to embark on in the new year.

This space is filled with great memories that I will always cherish and I'm sure my new site will be as well. Join me if you would like, though please forgive as it is still very much a work in progress. HTTP://MARGARETBAGWELL.WORDPRESS.COM/

Now for a final time I'll sign off as Just, Margaret

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T10:33:00.002-04:00

Today we're watching Fear Fest on AMC, cooking chili, carving a pumpkin, handing out treats... all in all a pretty perfect Halloween and a nice Saturday. Hope you enjoy your day as much as I plan too.

And before I forget a very happy birthday to my bff, Jane Marie.

Just, Margaret

October Book Review

2009-10-31T08:48:00.003-04:00

Excitedly most of the books on the list this month were bought at Shakespeare and Company in Paris though I'm sure you could find any of them in your local bookstore.

MY SISTER'S KEEPER by JODI PICOULT

I actually finished this book in September but traveling prevented a review until now. First to say I enjoyed this book doesn't feel right at all. How can one enjoy a story this depressing! I did find the ethical dilemmas of genetic engineering and organ donation intriguing. When I finally reached the ending- a task that at times felt like a journey toward inevitability- I found the author's conclusion predictable and lamentably tidy for an otherwise challenging/frustrating text. Read one if you want to know what all the fuss is about, but don't expect to find a classic wrapped in a summer read. [read]

THE READER by BERNHARD SCHLICK

I devoured this book in little over 24 hours. Remarkably easy to read for an English translation of a foreign text. The story is excellent and made me really appreciate the movie's interpretation. Still make sure to read the book because brilliant passages need to be verbally consumed. Next time I pick it up I plan to read it aloud. [read, re-read, recommend]

THE WOMAN IN BLACK by SUSAN HILL

A well written, short ghost story. This is definitely a classic read for October when if you are at all like me you enjoy thinking of ghost and ghouls. Not overly frightening, it reads like a conclusion to a night of ghost stories around a fire as it is intended. [read, re-read]

MOSTLY HARMLESS by DOUGLAS ADAMS

The final installment to THE HITCHHIKER'S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY diverts little from the trajectory set forth by the four books previous. Still humorous, the story plays with the idea of linear time measurements which made the timeline of the first few chapter more than a bit complicated. Overall a great conclusion to a very fun series. [read, re-read, recommend]

Just, Margaret

Rediscovering a beloved classic

2009-10-13T15:18:00.001-04:00

I loved the Anne books when I was a child. I wept as I finished the final chapter Rilla of Ingleside simply because I felt like I was saying goodbye to a friend. I decided just before I left the UK that I would re-read these favorite books of my childhood. I'm kinda hoping to rediscover what it is that attracted me to the books and what about Anne I so admired... probably that after all her silliness and flights of independence she ended up with Gilbert [smile]. He was my first literary love.

Just, Margaret

Art in Paris

2009-10-13T11:01:00.000-04:00

Okay just one more post about Paris. While walking through the city I encountered street art, galleries displaying their wares, and even full blown art exhibits.

Too cool... and begs the question "Why wouldn't something like that work in the United States?" Quick answer, we don't walk anywhere, but I don't really want to get started on that. Too early in my new life in the US to complain about some of the ways we could learn from the rest of the world. Just something to think about.

Just, Margaret

Paris

2009-10-12T10:31:00.005-04:00

Just a few pictures from the almost 200 that I took over three days in Paris. The fall palate made taking photos like a tourist too hard to resist. I had so much fun despite the rain. Really felt like a birthday present to myself. And I have to say that it never occurred to me when I was younger that this kinda of trip might coincide with my 26th birthday. I used a day-by-day guide to the city and crammed my days with the sights I missed on my first visit to Paris... La Marais, Montmartra and Sacra Coeur, Musee d'Orsay, Notre Dame, Shakespeare and Company, and a boat tour down the Seine. I feel like I've now experienced the city in full... at least until the next time I find myself passing through. If anyone was wondering my high school French was barely passable. Could read some signs, but not speak a word. So apart from breakfast in the hostel, most of my day was spent in silence. [smile]

Just, Margaret

Today's my birthday.

2009-10-11T19:48:00.002-04:00

Not sure what else to say other than I've enjoyed celebrating with the family. Hope you've had a good day too.

Just, Margaret

I'm home

2009-10-10T06:46:00.003-04:00

Arrived safely on US soil Thursday afternoon. It feels so great! Really I practically knocked over my dad hugging him at the airport. I've already checked three things off my "American foods I'm craving" list. Thin Mint Blizzard on the way home from the airport, Waffle House breakfast yesterday morning, and for dinner last night... can you say PIZZA from Mellow Mushroom! I've also started working on sorting out my life here. Already picked up a new cell phone and reactivated my old number. Text or phone if you have the number... as I'm trying to update my old contact info. Picked up a few applications for some part time work and will start looking for a car next week.

But this weekend, I'm celebrating. Tonight several of my best friends are headed my way for dinner. Tomorrow grandparents, uncle, and a sister or two will make the journey for church and lunch afterward. In the midst of it all I'm still trying to get on the right schedule. Going to bed at what is an appropriate EST time 10 to 10:30 both nights, but waking up so so early. Yesterday exactly at 6AM and this morning at 5:30. At least I have a sweet dog, Tootie, who is cool with keeping me company until my parents who can sleep to a decent hour are up.

Lots of updates to come... of my time at Taize and in Paris. Stay tuned.

Just, Margaret

D-Day

2009-10-08T03:35:00.000-04:00

Got on a plane early this morning bound for the United States. Sad to say goodbye to Bristol, but so excited to be going home. I'll give you an update in a few days when I've had a chance to recover from jet lag and celebrate a little.

Just, Margaret

Retreat in the French Countryside

2009-09-26T21:41:00.000-04:00

After 10 lovely days traveling around Great Britain, I'm off to France for a retreat at Taize. Please be in prayer for my experience there... first that I make it to the center safely and without incident and second that this time will spiritually prepare me for my return to the states. I'm also praying for the continued revelation of what I am being called to pursue next.

Before I return to the UK to board a plane I've scheduled a few days in Paris to rediscover the city I first met when I was 19, though this time without my great aunt and uncle who were such gracious hosts. Hope my high school French will see me through.

Just, Margaret

Happy 85th!

2009-09-15T10:25:00.003-04:00

My Granddaddy is 85 today. Contrary to how it may seem from this photograph (which is my favorite photo of him by the way), at 85 he is as sharp as ever... though he does enjoy acting goofy every once and a while. As much as I enjoy laughing with him, I also enjoy philosophizing and praying with him. He is a man of great faith and great love for my grandmother, his children and grandchildren, and the small community in which he lives. And we all love him so much in return. Happy Birthday, Granddaddy!

Just, Margaret

Course work completed!

2009-09-15T03:45:00.004-04:00

Can't believe that I'm finished with my Masters degree. Just seems to awesomely brilliant for words. So a photo instead...

Yes that is my 56 page, 14988 word dissertation in the box. What else would you suspect from a girl who insisted her dad take her photo when she voted for President for the first time in November 2004? Got to document all of life's crazy milestones.

Now off to pack... and anticipate the arrival of my parents in about 48 hours!

Just, Margaret

Happy Birthday, Sarah and Rachel!

2009-09-12T05:15:00.002-04:00

My beautiful and brilliant little sisters turn 21 today. I only have the faintest memories of their birth 21 years ago, mostly revolving around the "Big Sister" presents that I received at the time. [smile] I do remember the many years that have brought them to this point to celebrate such a milestone. Their existence has so enriched my life, allowing me to explore my identity as an older sister (sometimes to their ill favor... but what older siblings don't play tricks on their younger brothers and sisters [smile]). Beyond this though I have always felt so proud and blessed to watch them grow.

Sarah- You have become such an amazing artist. Your creations, which I love seeing displayed around our home, illustrate your passions and spiritual awareness. I admire you so much for your commitment to issues of justice... I did drop meat from my diet at your insistence [smile]. I look forward to seeing how your creative spirit will change our world.

Rachel- As you work diligently toward your goal of becoming a nurse, I am awestruck by your deepening compassion for others. You have always been a peacemaker... stepping in on those occasion when Sarah and I were at odds (usually arguing over whose turn it was in the bathroom [smile])... and I know your peace and deep joy in life will serve your future patients and co-workers so well.

Three cheers for my little sisters on their big day! With love.
Just, Margaret

*By the way, Rachel is on the left and Sarah on the right in the photo above.

So dark.

2009-09-09T15:14:00.002-04:00

The days are getting shorter already. It seems like just yesterday it was light until 10PM. I love experiencing the changing of the seasons in England.

Just, Margaret

Goodbyes.

2009-09-07T18:13:00.004-04:00

Tonight I attended the last 20s and 30s Bible Study scheduled before I say goodbye to Bristol. I consider myself very lucky to have formed several different groups of friends while I've been in Bristol... "The HistArchs", the other arch students-especially the North American contingent, my housemates, the Dean's Court flat group, MethSoc, and "20s & 30s". With the "20s & 30s" group I've found friends with whom I could laugh and share. I remember the first time I attended 20s & 30s I was quite nervous as I didn't really know who or what I might encounter, but before the night was through I realized it would be a fun group to be a part of. Tonight I said goodbye... for now, hopefully not forever. Thinking about leaving isn't terribly easy, but it helps to know they will continue to meet on the 1st Monday and 3rd Wednesday to think, grow, and pray together. Best wishes and hope to see you in February.

Just, Margaret

Act, Love, Walk

2009-09-06T16:01:00.002-04:00

When I think about what I'm looking forward to returning to in the United States, I think superficially of foods and amenities (free laundry, my own bathroom and queen sized pillow top mattress [smile]). And of course people are on my list... I'll have not seen most of my family for 10 months when I finally arrive home. But I am just as excited about joining in again in the life of my church community.

The sermon this morning used the passage from Micah 6- "What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God." The passage felt relevant not only with the thoughts I've been giving particularly to discerning my future, but also my prayers that God might reveal ways in which I might serve within my home church community while I am in transition. While the priest focused mostly on the explication of the virtues mentioned in the passage, he also spent a few minutes to emphasize the verbs- something that felt new to me. I realized anew that God calls me to action within the church, not just passive attendance. Its exciting to think of the possibilities and I pray I will be connected with others who share this call to action.

Just, Margaret

On the verge of tears

2009-09-04T10:42:00.003-04:00

I feel overwhelmed by emotions today... a not so unusual feeling these days. I write this not really to complain or seek companions with whom to commiserate. In fact, I actually feel blessed by the opportunity and capacity to feel and experience emotion. And when my eyes do begin to tear its more a catharsis than annoyance. I'm not sure I can articulate why I am so capable of weeping these days... stress from my tight deadline looming, joy at completing another year of study, excitement at the possibility of being home in Georgia in a month and four days, anticipation of my parents arrival in Bristol in just two weeks, uncertainty of where my journey will next take me, rapture at the natural changing of seasons, sadness at having to say goodbye to the place that has become my home and to friends.

So many seasons of my life are converging these days and I weep, but in a good way.

Just, Margaret

Smells like September...

2009-09-01T15:02:00.002-04:00

I emerged from my writing cocoon for a quick afternoon jaunt around the neighborhood to pick up a few fresh ingredients for my dinner (tomato, pesto, and mozzarella sandwich and baked breaded zucchini sticks... in case you were wondering). And I was overwhelmed by the feeling of September. Sounds odd, I guess. Buts it like how something can taste or smell pink. The day with its late afternoon sunshine and slight breeze just felt September. But what really took me off guard was it wasn't a feeling of just British September, but of Georgia September too. The day reminded me of those first few days of each college year when the anticipation of the opportunities that might present themselves are somehow tangible or the excitement of the first high school football game of the season and I could almost smell the gloriously fried delights of the state fair.

Its autumn!

Just, Margaret

The Story of Stuff

2009-09-01T03:25:00.002-04:00

I woke up this morning with a message in my inbox from my Daddy. He was sending me a link to this video- The Story of Stuff. Instead of trying to explain it myself I've included the explanation from their website, but better yet why not take 20 minutes to watch it yourself.

The Story of Stuff is a 20-minute, fast-paced, fact-filled look at the underside of our production and consumption patterns. The Story of Stuff exposes the connections between a huge number of environmental and social issues, and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world. It'll teach you something, it'll make you laugh, and it just may change the way you look at all the stuff in your life forever.

It is really well done and quite insightful. Most of what its saying I've read about previously in a book called Cradle to Cradle, but still very nice to see it all put together in a compact way. Follow up the video with "10 Recommendations for Another Way."

*In regards to Recommendation #10: It takes courage, I think, not to buy in (pun intended) to the "Golden Arrow of Production." Luckily its easier if we choose make our communities into places that value something different. Join me there.*

Just, Margaret

August Book Review

2009-08-31T08:48:00.002-04:00

I’m reading so many books these days that I can hardly keep track. So I thought I would add a book review post to my regular movie review at the end of each month. Though instead of using the handy star rating system, I’ve devised a different scale of my own. (Skip, read, re-read, recommend.) Hope you enjoy.

Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons
Very funny novel following the adventures/exploits of Flora Poste, a busybody with the goal of making the world “tidy”, as she visits her distant relations on a farm in Sussex. Such a delightful book sustained by enduring wit and humor! (read, re-read, and recommend)

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood
I've read one other of Atwood's books, The Handmaid's Tale, and neither it nor this one were disappointing. Both were well written, uniquely conceived tales of womanhood throughout the ages. This was particularly singular in form of style and structure... both modeled in ways from Greek mythology, literature, and drama. I enjoyed it, but I find reading Atwood requires at least for me a desire to immerse myself in feminist language, plot, attitude and sensibility not something that I'm always in the mood for in recreation reading. (read)

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

This popular fiction read is not my normal fare, but the movie trailers spiked my interest. I wasn't terribly disappointed. It was well written and the story was truly unique. A quite long book (500 odd pages if I remember correctly) and so becoming attached to the characters was really inevitable. Of course I was in tears by the end of the book, even though I had a feeling I knew how it would end. I guess the most interesting part of the book is the timeline. Each chapter is subtitled with a date and the ages of the characters involved... it all has to do with the issue of time traveling. Though I did find myself looking back once or twice for clarification of which version of each character was speaking (the book is also written in a split narrative of the husband and wife's perspectives), Niffenegger accomplished the feat of transporting the reader along with Henry, the time traveler of the title, on the backwards and forwards progression of his life. Definitely perfect for a book club, as it would bring up an interesting discussions: time, relationships, trust, absence, ect. (read and recommend)

Just, Margaret

August Movie Review

2009-08-31T06:09:00.001-04:00

THE PROPOSAL
Just okay. I’ve seen better romantic comedies and better Sandra Bullock movies. Good for a few laughs, but I would definitely wait to rent it on DVD or better yet wait to watch it on TNT or USA as it will inevitably end up being one of their “new classics” in a year or two. Most bizarre was that the female lead’s name was Margaret... completely threw me for a loop. I don’t plan to watch this one again. (1 of 5)

THE UGLY TRUTH

I hesitate to even admit that I paid money to see this awful film. Misogynistic to the nth degree, predictable, and not really funny. I am a fan of Katherine Heigl (I like her portrayal of Izzie Stevens on Grey's), but after reading about her criticism of Knocked Up as sexist I assumed she would be more discriminating of other scripts. After seeing The Ugly Truth, I'm assured she is not. (0 of 5)

THE TIME TRAVELERS WIFE
Another not so great rom com, especially when compared to the book. I guess I should have expected that last part. Films are rarely as good as their literary counterparts. Somehow the real thrust and emotion of the book was lost in translation. (1 of 5)

Just, Margaret

"Zabardust"

2009-08-29T18:29:00.003-04:00

Apparently this is the Pakistani word for really great, cool. I learned it at that international covered dish meal I mentioned I was going to and that I baked the Key Lime Pies for. It was so fun! Really. Zabardust (pronounced za-bar-dusth)!

I feel very blessed to have been able to meet the people I have this year. My international education has been as defined by my interaction with them as any of the lectures in which I have sat. Success this year isn't defined by my ability to trowel out the perfect trench (though I do think I've come a long way on that front [smile]) or to be able to explain stratigraphy for various audiences, but by the relationships I've formed. I'm not sure how many people I'll be able to keep in touch with as we scatter to all corners of the world, literally. (I hope it is more rather than few.) The season to part has come, as I reminded by someone this evening. It is not something that can be changed any more than I can change having met these wonderful people in the first place. God has ordained my life to include this rich experience and I am thankful. What my journey will include next I can only attempt to imagine!

Just, Margaret

Southern Classic

2009-08-28T14:59:00.003-04:00

Some of the soon to be ex-residents of MIH are having a covered dish, aka potluck dinner, tomorrow night. Blog surfing through the posts of friends of friends I ran across a recipe for Key Lime Pie and decided that was one I had to bring. What says "Southern Summer" better? I had to adapt it a bit with my English ingredients, but I'm fairly certain I got it right. Most exciting of all is that I've never baked one from scratch before, which made it all very adventurous and fun.

Just, Margaret

Its here!

2009-08-24T17:02:00.005-04:00

My backpack was the "large parcel" referred to in the previous post. And yes I totally just took several pictures of myself with the pack to post here because I was so excited. Ignore the crazy hair (I just took a shower) and the "farmer's tan" (a result of the dig). France here I come... or should I say "la France voici moi!"

**Pardon my French. Seriously that's the best I could come up with from my high school training and my hand-me-down phrase book. I probably should brush up on a few phrases. Or at least get very friendly with "Je parle tres peu le francais."**

Just, Margaret

MAIL!!

2009-08-24T15:56:00.002-04:00

This note was waiting for me when I arrived back to my flat today.

Dear Margaret, There's an extremely large parcel for you in the office. Regards, Warden Team

I think it must be my new backpack!!! If it isn't then its a big surprise. Either way I'm excited because I have mail. Oh, I love receiving mail. It has to be one of the simplest of joys. I hope I never grow to old or cynical to not appreciate snail mail. A full email box (like the one I had waiting me this evening as well) is great, but there is something about the old school postal system that just can't be beat.

Just, Margaret

Voila!

2009-08-23T14:31:00.004-04:00

De-turfed, mattocked, scooped out, and troweled TP 19 all by myself. Also finished all the paperwork to make it official. I will say that deturfing and trowelling are two of my favorite things to do on a dig, simply because they produce results. Its like instant gratification to see a perfect 1x1 meter square of earth exposed and then to trowel down to a flat level, square box. Well there is just nothing like it. Hope I can remember that feeling when I start work again tomorrow morning.

Just, Margaret

Tyntesfield

2009-08-20T10:31:00.007-04:00

Today due to foul weather and for the sanity of the archaeologists on site (me included) we toured the Victorian Mansion on the estate and the real reason we're able to explore our field with National Trust blessing. Beautiful is not exactly the right word for the house. It is ornate and exquisite, but mostly its just quirky. The house is filled with all the everyday things accumulated by the family over the last 150 odd years and they are all just waiting to be catalogued as part of the collection. Already National Trust has catalogued 30000 artifacts. The quirkiness is perhaps intensified by the detachment of the house from the surrounding gardens by the massive scaffolding. (The house is undergoing an extensive repair... roof, rewiring, central heating, then clean up and restoration.) Still it was quite fascinating to poke around a piece of property in the process of becoming a proper national museum. Sorry about the poor quality photos. I couldn't use my flash and my camera never focuses properly with out it.

Our special name badges also meant greater access... into the cellar and up on the scaffolding to examine the repairs to the roof. And can I just say being on the Victorian roof checks of my wish to have a "Mary Poppins" experience before I head home. [smile]

By the way the first link goes to a 360 degree panorama of the estate and some of the rooms and the second goes to the news clip regarding the extensive collection.

Just, Margaret

This week's daily schedule:

2009-08-19T08:44:00.000-04:00

I've been going to bed extra early this week, between 9 and 9:30. Here's why:

Get up 7ish... dress (put on dirty dig outfit from day before and pull hair up), eat breakfast, pack lunch and kit

Picked up at 8:10... drive 20 minutes to site, unload kit/tools

8:45-10ish... dig, trowel, mattock and get at least one new scrape or bruise, uncover one new layer of stone, silt, sand, or clay

Tea Break (how very British right... though as the American on site I do feel it is imperative that I drink coffee [smile])

10:30-1ish... more digging, troweling, mattocking

LUNCH (PB, honey, banana sandwich, insert fruit of the day, Jaffa Cakes-for sugar boost)

2ish-4ish... hopefully measuring and recording, but probably more digging, troweling, mattocking

Clean up, ride home

Pick up lunch supplies for next day and an afternoon snack (usually ice cream)

Veg on couch in TV room

Shower, remind myself each new bruise is a symbol of living my childhood dream

Cook dinner, eat, bed

Just, Margaret

BBC Points West

2009-08-18T13:12:00.001-04:00

Our dig was covered on TV today. Still haven't figured out if I made the final cut. I'll try to post a video soon. It tide you over, click here for an online article.

Just, Margaret

Big purchase

2009-08-16T15:11:00.003-04:00

I bought a backpack for my trip to France in October! I don't usually spend this much money on myself apart from travel arrangements... at least at one time. I have to say it feels a bit like Christmas and as I clicked "submit order" at REI.com I had this rush of all the exciting places I plan to go with my backpack over the next year... Taize and Paris, journey back to the UK in February for graduation, D.C. in the Spring, and I hope road trips to Tennessee, Nebraska, South Carolina, and definitely back to Louisiana to visit friends and family. Perhaps I could even convince my sisters to go camping with me somewhere, since we'll all be in the same state for a change. I can't wait for it to arrive. [smile]

Just, Margaret

Dig it!

2009-08-14T08:49:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is the start of a two week excavation. For real, not just ice cream. [smile] I'm away for about 8 hours each day, 11 days total. The exciting bit is I do get to return to my own bed and hot shower each evening. No camping in a cold tent. Yahoo! I'll try to bring a few updates throughout the weeks... though don't expect too much as I'm sure I'll be exhausted. Pray for nice weather. Wouldn't it be awesome to have a tan at the end of the 2 weeks as opposed to a cold from rainy England? I think I might be a bit too optimistic on that front.

If anyone is interested, we'll be excavating a Second World War site occupied at some stage by US GIs. Its located just out of Bristol city limits... at Tyntesfield- a national trust estate. Overall there is very little information about the site... all shrouded in a mystery for some reason. I'm not sure you can expect me to be very enlightening at the end of the two weeks. We'll just be digging 30 odd test pits and trying to shed light on what areas and how deep actual trenches should be for next year's continuation of the project. Still I'm hoping the extra practice will help me hone my digging techniques and recording skills while inspiring me to finish my dissertation. Perhaps we'll find some indication of a significant homefront interaction (a stockpile of nylons, a big gum ball, etc. [smile]).

Just, Margaret

Phish Food Excavation

2009-08-13T10:37:00.005-04:00

Maybe I'm just going a bit insane with all the stress of dissertation writing, but last night as I happened upon what has to be the perfect ice cream for archaeologists. Ben and Jerry's Phish Food. Think about it... It has an easily discernible stratigraphy: marshmallow gooeyness, slightly hardened caramel, and chocolate ice cream! And the chocolate fish: artifacts! Am I right or am I right?

Just, Margaret

Nightly Rituals

2009-08-09T17:02:00.003-04:00

Okay so I'm kinda obsessed with using facial mud masks... you know to exfoliate and such. Its a de-stresser for me and it also seems to help my skin, so I do it about twice a week. Usually later at night, just before bed or in the morning before I shower... though I'm never really worried about seeing anyone with it on cause I'm in my room and if I see my housemates is usually running into them in the hall or kitchen. Sure you can see where this is going. I decided to prepare for bed early cause I'm waiting on a Skype call from my parents and grandparents and I also wanted to read and it is a Sunday and so what if I get ready for bed before 10 sometimes (my teacher friends go to bed by 9). I'm also tired from a busy weekend (JM and I walked at least 5 miles yesterday and mostly uphill) and I didn't allow myself to take an afternoon nap. So I put on the mask (which is a pale lavender that when dried I'm sure makes me look like one of the walking dead... ghostly pallor and all) and start reading and forget its there until... "Knock, knock". Yep go to the door and its Ibrahim and Hiro, nice guys but guys none the less. And so I yell out the door as I'm opening it because its inevitable now that I've already asked "who is it?" that "my face is purple and I'm sorry. What do they need?" [oy] That was one of the longest 3 minutes in my life because I and they are acutely aware of my abnormally colored face. Conversation over and I close the door and all I can think is "of course this would have to happen to me."

Just, Margaret

Balloons over Bristol!

2009-08-09T10:09:00.009-04:00

Did I mention earlier this week Jane Marie was scheduled to visit this weekend? She finagled her boyfriend, "Himself", into organizing a bike ride in Wales then a visit with his University friend who now lives in the city so that we could have a day to hang out. Perfect day! We enjoyed the delights of a sterotypical "Girls Day Out"... shopping, eating, gossiping, etc. The evening we spent in classic Bristol summer fashion, picnicing on the Downs overlooking the Bridge and watching the mass launch of Bristol's Famous Balloon Fiesta and attended the Night Glow on Ashton Court Estates. So fun! Photos are above and below... the first is courtesy of Josephine who joined us for the picnic and the video is to give you an idea of what the Night Glow was like and how silly JM and I are when we're together. [smile] Yay for experiencing the real Bristol and for a fun weekend with a friend!

Just, Margaret

Bang, boom, boom

2009-08-06T17:13:00.002-04:00

Tonight I can hear the fireworks for the Bristol Balloon Fiesta. Its all happening just across the bridge (so about a mile away) and it feels like they are in the aiming right into my open window. [smile] Tonight is the first night of the festival. I'm planning on attending Saturday with Jane Marie who'll be visiting. I can imagine that it will all be quite exciting. For the next three days, mass balloon launches will occur twice a day (6AM and 6PM), then Saturday evening another "Night Glow" (balloons inflated on the ground... kinda like giant lanterns) and more fireworks. If the wind is right in the morning, they should pass by my window. I'll post some photos this weekend.

Just, Margaret

A theology of hope

2009-08-05T16:36:00.002-04:00

I attended a evening church meeting tonight... tackling the topic of "free" will and predestination. I thought for sure I knew what I was in for, namely conservative theology. And while that did come up in the time for questions, I was pleasantly surprised by the openness and inclusivity of the speaker's perspective. He did not try to explain away the questions the idea of "free" will or what it might mean to be "predestined", rather he embraced a theology of hope and the idea of fellowship within suffering. What I really wanted to share out of all of this though was the quote he ended the discussion with.

Hope has two beautiful daughters, their names are Anger and Courage- anger at the way thing are and courage to see that they do not remain the way they are.

The words of Augustine rang out in truth for me at least... the profundity of connecting my personal capacity for hope with my passion for justice ministries.

Just, Margaret

Sick Day

2009-08-05T03:00:00.002-04:00

Yesterday morning after waking up fine I began to feel not well. Still not exactly sure why or what happened. Maybe it was something I ate, maybe it was stress. I will be so glad to be on the other side of this dissertation. Today thankfully I'm feeling better and hope/plan to get a good bit of work done.

Just, Margaret

July Movie Review

2009-07-31T16:05:00.006-04:00

THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK
This is of course a re-watch. I love Star Wars, but my least favorite scene/line in the original 3 movies occurs in this film. See video clip below.

The sheer arrogance of Solo is so frustrating I always have to yell at the screen. Note to any male readers out there: "I know" is not the correct response to "I love you." (5 out of 5)

PS I LOVE YOU
Good movie if what you're looking for is a reason to weep. That's what I did throughout. Really sad, sickly sweet at points, totally a Hollywood romance. Wish I could say I thought a man like Gerry actually existed, but I'm afraid I've learned I shouldn't hold my breath. I'll make sure to rent this again when I have that monthly hormonal urge to cry. (2 of 5)

THE READER
A different caliber of movie all together from the others I've watched recently. Really a masterpiece in every sense of the word. Kate Winslet is phenomenal. Though at times difficult to watch, definitely one not to be missed. (5 of 5)

DANNY DECKCHAIR
"Will you join me on my journey? What about you?" I loved this movie. It was an iTunes rental... something that just caught my eye. It was so funny, a change from most of the romcoms I've seen lately. I don't really have anything bad to say about it. Just a very cute movie, perfect for the whole family. One I would have no qualms recommending to my grandparents and I'm sure my 20 something friends would love it too. Rent it tonight. (5 of 5 stars)

PRICELESS

A French film with Audrey Tautou. Really could you ask for more? Absolutely sweet movie. The best description I can think of is to describe it as a reversal of Pretty Woman... if you can imagine what that might be like. I giggled throughout at the silly scenarios that follow this couple on their road to love. I am a bit puzzled by the the R rating... no nudity or "coarse" language, must be the "gold digger" plot. If you're okay with subtitles definitely something to see. (4 of 5)

HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE

I will own up to being a total HP fan. Read all the books... even pre-ordered the 7th book. Now that that's out there I'll say this was my favorite of the movies and also my favorite of the books. The adaptation was great... or as good as an adaptation of a 600+ page book can be expected to go. Plus, for the first time one of the films captured the humor of the books in addition to the suspense. Definitely worth seeing in the theater... twice (which is what I did). [smile] (5 of 5)

SPIRITED AWAY

Not sure exactly how to review this as it is the first Japanese anime film I've ever seen. I enjoyed it, but also found it quite confusing. It did help to have a Japanese friend watching along to explain some of it. I do think I should (and will) watch it again because I'm fairly certain there's an ecological lesson to be gleaned. (3 of 5)

Just, Margaret

Writing

2009-07-31T09:04:00.003-04:00

Its hard not to be distracted by the beautiful day beyond my desk. If its still nice this evening I'll take a walk or go for a jog... assuming my legs don't fail me.

Just, Margaret

The Nun on the London Tube

2009-07-30T13:21:00.004-04:00

So have you heard the one about the nun on the London Tube? No, well, me neither. It just occurred to me when I was giving a title to this post that it sounded like a joke. [smile] Last time I was in London, I happened to be sitting in a train next to a nun... completely habit wearing, kind older woman stereotypical nun. The nun's not really the odd part of the story. The oddity is the crazy urge I had to ask this woman who I don't know from Adam (or should I say Eve) why she chose to be a nun and how she knew it was the right thing for her. I should have said something I guess, I mean, wearing a habit is sort of a visible signal that she wouldn't think I was absolutely ridiculous. The problem or issue is that I keep having this same desire. There's this person I know through a friend who is my age and who is basically serving currently as a full-time, career missionary and I keep thinking if I can just ask them why maybe I'll be able to find some answers myself. Then last night at an event at a community church I've attended several times while in Bristol I happened to be sitting next to a couple who I learned had been missionaries in Pakistan for 12 years... about 16 years ago, when they were around my age. And all I could ask was if they enjoyed their time in mission... to which they replied yes of course.

But that's still not asking the question that I'm really after... WHY? I know at issue is my own contemplation of what's next for me, but it takes great courage to ask the right questions and patience to wait for the right time.

Just, Margaret

Another fun Rotary field trip

2009-07-29T04:09:00.005-04:00

This time I visited the Bristol Council House with Alderman Withers, a member of the Bristol Rotary Club- my sponsors. It was so fun! Really the building is beautiful... with two great painted ceilings. If you live in Bristol you should stop by and ask the security guards if you can check them out. The one in the actual council room is sort of an interpretive mural of the city's history (with landmarks around the edge and in the center the types of boats and aircraft built in the city).

Just, Margaret

I feel like I might throw up.

2009-07-28T08:11:00.002-04:00

Sorry to be so blunt and crude, its just that I went jogging for the first time in a long time just now and now I'm trying to catch my breath. I walk all the time around the city and love it! Really and I'm not sure what made me decide to start jogging today, but I felt like it might be nice... I mean the weather is cool and its not raining. I was thinking this will be a piece of cake. I might have slightly over-estimated or under-estimated something here. At least I found a nice route. If I go out again tomorrow, perhaps I can slowly ease this sick feeling into something resembling a runner's high. [smile]

Just, Margaret

Final Post of the Day

2009-07-27T16:38:00.003-04:00

Another day has gone by and I don't feel I've accomplished much, but I'm told that's typical of dissertation writing. I've set some goals and I'm hoping to start afresh tomorrow working toward achieving them. I'll make sure to post toward the end of the week how I do.

Before I say goodnight I do have a silly story to tell. Last night while drifting off to sleep I happened to glance at the wall beside my bed where I saw a big spider... and I don't mean big by my over active, almost asleep, arachnophobic brain. It was really quite large about an inch and a half in diameter spread out on the wall. For those of you who know me... especially those who have lived with me... I'm sure you're wondering who I found late last night to help me capture the spider. I will admit my first instinct was to scream, then I though how silly that would make me look. Waking up the whole household because of probably harmless spider. So somehow I captured it using a plastic bottle I had in my room which I then, at the suggestion of my mother whom I called to freak out on the phone to after the whole episode, placed outside my door so I wouldn't have to think of it actually being in my room. It all feels like a blur today, but I have to admit I am a bit weary of getting ready for bed tonight in fear last night might be repeated. Where there was one there might be many... think Aragog in Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone. Still makes me shiver to think about it. Just in case you were wondering the spider was released this morning into our garden by the warden.

Just, Margaret

Words in my head...

2009-07-27T09:53:00.000-04:00

I can't even place where or begin to fathom why these words have been in my thoughts lately. I think it must have something to do with confronting the uncertainty of the future, but wanting to do so with great hope. I do remember that the words Maya Angelo shared at President Clinton's first inauguration were imprinted on my brain by Encarta, the computer encyclopedia on our first family computer. As it opened the last line of the poem were read aloud- a recording of Angelo's performance I'm sure. I remember the words were said with such deliberate promise and I always feel a bit of a shiver of anticipation when I re-read them (I've highlighted some of my favorite words). Count me among the people standing up for hope today.

A Rock, A River, A Tree
Hosts to species long since departed,
Marked the mastodon.
The dinosaur, who left dry tokens
Of their sojourn here
On our planet floor,
Any broad alarm of their hastening doom
Is lost in the gloom of dust and ages.

But today, the Rock cries out to us, clearly, forcefully,
Come, you may stand upon my
Back and face your distant destiny,
But seek no haven in my shadow.

I will give you no more hiding place down here.

You, created only a little lower than
The angels, have crouched too long in
The bruising darkness,
Have lain too long
Face down in ignorance.

Your mouths spilling words
Armed for slaughter.

The Rock cries out today, you may stand on me,
But do not hide your face.

Across the wall of the world,
A River sings a beautiful song,
Come rest here by my side.

Each of you a bordered country,
Delicate and strangely made proud,
Yet thrusting perpetually under siege.

Your armed struggles for profit
Have left collars of waste upon
My shore, currents of debris upon my breast.

Yet, today I call you to my riverside,
If you will study war no more. Come,

Clad in peace and I will sing the songs
The Creator gave to me when I and the
Tree and the stone were one.

Before cynicism was a bloody sear across your
Brow and when you yet knew you still
Knew nothing.

The River sings and sings on.

There is a true yearning to respond to
The singing River and the wise Rock.

So say the Asian, the Hispanic, the Jew
The African and Native American, the Sioux,
The Catholic, the Muslim, the French, the Greek
The Irish, the Rabbi, the Priest, the Sheikh,
The Gay, the Straight, the Preacher,
The privileged, the homeless, the Teacher.
They hear. They all hear
The speaking of the Tree.

Today, the first and last of every Tree
Speaks to humankind. Come to me, here beside the River.

Plant yourself beside me, here beside the River.

Each of you, descendant of some passed
On traveller, has been paid for.

You, who gave me my first name, you
Pawnee, Apache and Seneca, you
Cherokee Nation, who rested with me, then
Forced on bloody feet, left me to the employment of
Other seekers--desperate for gain,
Starving for gold.

You, the Turk, the Swede, the German, the Scot ...
You the Ashanti, the Yoruba, the Kru, bought
Sold, stolen, arriving on a nightmare
Praying for a dream.

Here, root yourselves beside me.

I am the Tree planted by the River,
Which will not be moved.

I, the Rock, I the River, I the Tree
I am yours--your Passages have been paid.

Lift up your faces, you have a piercing need
For this bright morning dawning for you.

History, despite its wrenching pain,
Cannot be unlived, and if faced
With courage, need not be lived again.

Lift up your eyes upon
The day breaking for you.

Give birth again
To the dream.

Women, children, men,
Take it into the palms of your hands.

Mold it into the shape of your most
Private need. Sculpt it into
The image of your most public self.
Lift up your hearts
Each new hour holds new chances
For new beginnings.

Do not be wedded forever
To fear, yoked eternally
To brutishness.

The horizon leans forward,
Offering you space to place new steps of change.
Here, on the pulse of this fine day
You may have the courage
To look up and out upon me, the
Rock, the River, the Tree, your country.

No less to Midas than the mendicant.

No less to you now than the mastodon then.

Here on the pulse of this new day
You may have the grace to look up and out
And into your sister's eyes, into
Your brother's face, your country
And say simply
Very simply
With hope
Good morning.

Just, Margaret

Just finished.

2009-07-27T07:53:00.002-04:00

Just closed the cover on the first final istallment of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Trilogy of Four. If that makes sense you've probably read the books, if not I'm not sure I can help you. Though the question evoking the meaning of life the universe and everything (which is 42) was never revealed I still thoroughly enjoyed the series. I even found a passage that I might use in my dissertation. Hope my tutor likes the books. [smile] It was a perfect summer read... entertaining enough to keep me interested, but not so entertaining that I couldn't put it aside for a few hours and get some other work done. Best of all, the books are total nonsense so there was no danger of feeling like I had to understand a word of it.

Just, Margaret

Expect a few posts today!

2009-07-27T06:39:00.004-04:00

Like I mentioned on Thursday I've had a good bit of stuff on my mind lately. At the top of the list has been trying to figure out what to do with my life. "Not that again." Yep, sorry to say but despite a year loving and learning all about archaeology I'm not entirely convinced I want to be what I thought I wanted to be at 8 years old. Part of me thinks thats a little sad, but the other part feels like its a very smart thing to recognize. Despite all that I do feel there are many so great things that have come out of this year of following my childhood dreams and I wouldn't begin to change it.

That's all just to say that I'm in a process of discerning. Where to go next? What to do next? Amidst all the thoughts of the future are some other random incidents and feelings I hope to post about throughout the day. So check back later... no telling what you'll find.

Just, Margaret

You've seen this right?

2009-07-27T00:06:00.000-04:00

How could you have missed it? All over the morning news programs and entertainment news serials in the US, posted on all the blogs you read. I know I'm a little behind the times in posting this and I wasn't even going to, but I saw the Saturday edition of NBC Nightly News was still questioning why this video (a family recording of a wedding) had gone viral. To offer my own analysis I have to say that its the joy and the love, but it also exudes hope. Hope that Jill and Kevin's future will be filled with laughter and excitement. They're off to a good start, don't you think? Makes me want to join the dance with them. I love it.

Just, Margaret

On the agenda:

2009-07-23T06:14:00.002-04:00

Pick up relevant books for research from Borders
Spend a couple of hours visiting pubs in Bedminster
Lunch with Josephine
Write

Wish I could say that I had more fun-filled plans for our one really sunny day this week (and really sunny day in weeks... the sun and warm weather left with my cousins). Though I guess research in pubs over the course of the afternoon might provide some entertainment. [smile] Sorry to be so brief, but I've been so busy lately. Perhaps I'll update some this weekend... certainly have many things on my mind that I could share. Mainly just wanted to reassure all of you that I'm alive. Until later.

Just, Margaret

Blast from the Past

2009-07-18T14:38:00.002-04:00

So last night I found my favorite favorite childhood movie on YouTube... the whole thing. WILD HEARTS CAN'T BE BROKEN!!!!!! I was in heaven or maybe just "Atlantic City: Where all you're dreams come true." Not sure if anyone else out there will remember this film, but I think I watched it ten bazillion times. I know for a while it was the only movie my sisters and I would want to rent from the video store. It got so bad that my parents just refused to rent it (or at least that's what I remember)... Grammy on the other hand would always let us rent it when we were visiting. Watching it all over again reminded me how much I loved it. I was a little wary at first... wondered if my honed movie tastes might gag on the syrupy sweetness of the "dream big and it will happen/you'll also meet the man of your dreams" plot, but they so didn't. I think I loved it just as much as I did when I was a kid. I also remembered how much I thought the actor who played Al (Michael Schoeffling, aka "Jake Ryan") was "the bomb" with his perfect 90s bowl haircut and serious, yet charming voice and the whole protector/supporter role. I think he was my first real crush. Wonder what he's doing now? There are so many reasons why I love this movie, but the best one I can think to share is that my sisters and I all loved it. And with five years separating our ages it was kinda a rare thing. Other than that I think I've always been one for movies with a female lead who lives her dreams. I couldn't embed the video, but click here if you want to see one of my favorite scenes in the movie... Sonora's first critical dive in Atlantic city and the proposal.

Just, Margaret

Disclaimer: I do realize this is such a silly post, but sometimes reliving the old days is exactly the thing you need. By the way I am loving the Hitchhiker's Guide Series... just about to finish book 2 of the 5 part trilogy. [smile]

[tear]

2009-07-15T10:22:00.004-04:00

I was originally supposed to fly home tomorrow... that is when I booked my flight (roundtrip) last summer. I did book the flight with the thought that I might have to change it later. Still because of the screwed up policies of an airline that shall remain nameless today as I'm canceling my flight for tomorrow I can't help but feel slightly homesick and ready to go home. Really, it would be so nice to have a quick visit... I've got too much left to do to leave for good. Gotta keep telling myself that's not a possibility at least not yet. October 8th, my D-Day, will come and I can head home to my family, our sweet dog, my purple room and the porch in Broxton, and my WELCOME HOME PARTY (see flyer above)! If you might be able to attend, shoot me an email to let me know you're interested in more details. Should be fun, especially since I've not had a real birthday party in years. Until then its something to look forward too at least.

Just, Margaret

See "Worth Your While"

2009-07-12T15:22:00.002-04:00

Today (and last night) I'm with my BFF Jane Marie... exploring her English home, meeting her English boy for the first time, who I will say is pretty great, though I don't plan to tell him quite yet. [smile] Having so much fun. Loving the comfort of being with someone who knows me so well. Tomorrow off to research in London, but to tide you over until then check out this post by said best friend at her blog Worth Your While... might be helpful in putting our friendship in perspective. I will add that for as much as we are different we do share several loves, which I've listed below:

CHOCOLATE (today was a 5 truffle day for us both)
ADVENTURE (hey we are both ex-pats)
GRITS (you can take the girl out of the south, but not the south out of the girl)

... there are more but as these are the most relevant for today's events that's all I've got for you now. More later.

Just, Margaret

Archaeological Pub Crawl

2009-07-10T03:53:00.004-04:00

Sounds crazy I know, but I really do have to visit several pubs for my research... pubs frequented by US servicemen in the 1940s. Today I'm printing out my map and making a plan to visit them sometime next week. I don't expect to find these establishments under the same proprietors, but its just possible some trace of the story will still exist. If I'm lucky I'll find the "Holy Grail," period graffiti in a booth or maybe a few relics (buttons or badges) collected by the bartender and passed down. Oh I know I shouldn't get my hopes up, but this could really be the BIG break I've been waiting for. [smile and sigh] Now the only problem that I see arising from this research scenario is that in order for people to talk to me I'm going to have to order something... multiply that by lets say five establishments that I've confirmed are still in business and I'm in trouble. [smile] I'll probably just limit myself to lemonade or ginger ale with the excuse that I'm on the job. If there are any Bristol friends out there who would like to tag along and lend me some legitimacy in that arena let me know.

Just, Margaret

House of Lords

2009-07-09T08:05:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I visited the House of Lords as a guest of Lord Peter Brooke of Sutton Mandeville (quite a mouthful right... he actually introduced himself as Peter Brooke [smile]). I find it a bit hard to describe the experience because of the sheer surreality of it all. First sitting in the security/cloak room of the Houses of Parliament waiting to be escorted by Lord Brooke and having my Rotary counselor, Pat (who made the visit happen) point out various Lords who were passing in and out, then sitting on the floor of the House of Lords watching question time, finally my personal tour of the building by Lord Brooke including tea and cucumber sandwiches in the swanky tea room for members of Parliament and their guests. Lord Brooke was so kind and so knowledgeable and I could tell really passionate about his role in the government. He actually asked a question in the House which made it all the more exciting to watch. A quick aside about the beauty of the building: which I can attest totally extends into the interior... a beautiful Victorian interpretation of Gothic. Oh and I also saw a copy of the Magna Carta, c. 1215 and displayed completely anonymously in a corner of a chamber. Another amazing, once in a lifetime experience! I feel so blessed!

Just, Margaret

Song of the Week

2009-07-07T01:12:00.000-04:00

Can't stop listening to this song. I even used the genius option on iTunes to create a custom playlist which is just awesome! Hope you enjoy.

Just, Margaret

Misplaced my towel.

2009-07-05T18:28:00.003-04:00

Those of you who've read Hitchhiker's Guide will understand the title of this post to mean that I'm a bit confused these days. So many thoughts are bouncing around in my head... what still needs to be researched for my dissertation, booking my ticket home in October, finalizing my travel plans for my trip to France, and deciding what to do with my life. Read in preparation for Bible study tonight something that felt relevant. Maybe it just felt profound to me because of my current state of mind, but I still want to share. The closing statement to the lesson was: "The risk in playing it safe is the risk that we never grow into the person we are called to be." So I added another question to my list: Who am I called to be? I feel like I'm on the cusp of a big change in my life, leading to what I'm not sure and I guess that's kind of the point of this post. I'm entering a period of discernment and maybe reading a book that humorously attempts to provide a survival guide to the vast universe of which we are only a small part is the perfect place to start... "Don't Panic."

Just, Margaret

Escape of or should I say from "The Scapegoat"

2009-07-04T08:59:00.002-04:00

With great intentions today of finishing du Maurier's tragic and somewhat depressing novel, The Scapegoat, I strolled over to the Oxfam Bookstore where I volunteer this morning with the book in tow. Sadly or happily (I haven't quite decided yet which) after cashing out our first customer of the day and settling at the till with my cup of coffee, I realized my book had disappeared. I looked around for it, beside the register and in the drawer where I normally lay the book I'm reading while helping a customer, then realized I must have haphazardly dropped it along with the books he purchased in our first customer's bag. Oops. And people look at me funny when I talk of renaming my blog "The Misadventures of Margaret." [smile]

Part of me found misplacing the book I was so close to finishing slightly dissettling. I looked briefly to see if we had a copy in the store I could borrow to finish, but sadly no. Then I began to think about how the story had taken a slightly depressing turn in the last few chapters. The life of the protagonist was unravelling... a missing daughter, a pregnant wife who fell from the chateau's second story window, finding out he was responsible for the death of his sister's fiance. Maybe losing the book was actually a good thing. Sure I won't know how the story ends originally, but I don't think it will end happily and I would like to think that the problems were worked out in the end and a new, happier, guileless character emerged.

The other exciting avenue of imagining is what the man will think when he finds the stowaway among his parcels. I think if the situation were reversed I'd feel particularly drawn to the book that seemed to have chosen me. Perhaps he'll find it an interesting read. I hope he won't try to return it... sort of would ruin my fantasy of the book's travels.

Think I'm silly for spouting on and on about this if you must, but I do have one other detail to add. Not an hour later, a woman came by to donate some books. On top of the pile she handed me was The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. Why is this significant? Well, when I was choosing the book that escaped, The Hitchhiker's Guide was among the books I was choosing from. It kinda feels like that's the book I should have been reading all along. I'll let you know what I think when I've finished.

Just, Margaret

Rocky Road Ice Cream

2009-07-03T13:37:00.002-04:00

I didn't know until I stumbled upon it today that Bristol actually has a Baskin Robins. I've eaten ice cream from BR since I was really little. My first memories of eating ice cream are of having some at BR. So its a special place to me and when I saw the logo in Bristol's Galleries Mall today I did a double take and then walked toward the case not breathing in what felt like slow motion movie style wishing that Rocky Road was a standard flavor in this country too. And it is! I must have seemed absolutely insane to the girl behind the counter, muttering something about how I couldn't believe they had Rocky Road ice cream, how I must have a scoop in a cup, and thanking her profusely for a stocking my favorite flavor of ice cream on the planet though I know she had no control over it. I went on to explain that I hadn't enjoyed any Rocky Road ice cream since I had last been home in December. Turned out she likes Rocky Road too and felt it was a pleasure to sell their last scoop to someone who enjoyed it as much as her (I'm not making that up she actually said that). [smile]

It tasted just as I remembered it and I had to fight back tears as I enjoyed the first few bites. I guess I've been feeling a bit homesick... now that the visits from Blair and Adam and Janell and Emily are over. Today the Rocky Road was my gift of home.

Just, Margaret

Happy July 3rd!

2009-07-03T06:07:00.005-04:00

May I just briefly suggest to my fellow U.S. citizens that today on the eve of our July 4th celebrations as we prepare the fireworks displays, the classic jello fruit salad in the shape of our flag, and clean the grill for the ritual BBQ, we also take time to consider the wonder of all the other countries and people that populate our world. If July 4th is deemed the celebration of our own nation, perhaps July 3rd should be set aside to remember that the United States does not exist singularly or centrally on this planet we call home. Seek global awareness and understanding. For the majority of the world's population, tomorrow July 4th is just another Saturday. Something to think about.

Just, Margaret

June Movie Review

2009-06-30T15:25:00.003-04:00

Haven't had the chance to see many movies this month with all the traveling I've been doing. Actually I just have 3 to review.

SUNSHINE CLEANING

I loved LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE so I was really excited to see that the director teamed up with my favorite actress Amy Adams for this new film. Another dark comedy, tackling issues of self-esteem, death, vocation, measuring life's success- just to name a few. I loved the movie. Funny, sad, and sometimes absolutely disgusting. Beware the first scene, its the most violent, but happily the violence doesn't follow that level of intensity the rest of the way through. (5 out of 5 stars)

HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU

I hate this film... I love this film... I hate it... I love it. I've never felt so confused about a movie. I hated the movie because it highlights a bit too realistically the complexities of the female mind. I loved it for the same reason. I hated the wishy washy female characters and the jerky men. I will say the ending for all its faults (meaning it actually negates the movie's premise) had a couple of great one-liners. "You're my exception." Still a fun, albeit predictable chick flick/rom com if that's what you're looking for. (2 of 5 stars)

BEDTIME STORIES

Put simply this is a fun kid's movie. One dimensional characters, transparent story line, and predictable ending, but still a good rental. (3 of 5 stars)

Just, Margaret

Planning a research trip to London

2009-06-30T12:04:00.002-04:00

Places to visit:

The Imperial War Museum

The British Library

The British Museum (possibly)

Legitimate research time in actual museum archives: Priceless

How dorky/geeky am I? I'll leave that to you to decide.

Just, Margaret

Cousin Vaca: Random shots

2009-06-27T15:40:00.024-04:00

A sampling of random shots from the two weeks together. Stories to accompany these I think just might have to remain inside jokes mostly because I don't think they'll make sense otherwise. [smile]

"The coconut shot of the day":

Here are just a few of Emily's coconut pics for her friends in the Bahamas. Part of the fun of each day was finding the perfect location for the required "British-Bahamian" photo.

What were we thinking:

No better description for these photos. I love that in the first one Emily is channeling her inner monk.

Devotion to Mr. Darcy:

Enough said! Well I will add that it was my idea to take these, which is a BIG surprise to you I'm sure.

Yummy food:

We ate well and often.

"The Sights":

Last photo album post, I promise. All good things must come to an end... so tomorrow back to work. Please pray that research goes well. I'm beginning to feel the pressure.

Just, Margaret

Cousin Vaca: Group photos

2009-06-27T14:54:00.008-04:00

1st group photo at the Tower of London and 2nd in front of Tower Bridge:

Buckingham Palace is behind us, we promise!

Movie night in Derby (pronounced Darby):

In York ("The Shambles" and pub night):

In Durham in front of the Cathedral:

Facials and hotel terry cloth robes at the Marriott:

Edinburgh for the Day!

Our last day in Durham in the Castle courtyard.

Laundry Day in Bristol: (The concerned faces worn by Janell and me are because we weren't sure we had put the soap in the correct compartment.)

In Bath leaning on the Abbey and in the Jane Austen Tea Room.

Loads of photos, but aren't we beautiful in all of them? I'm sure our Mom and Pop at least will think so. A second album of a few silly photos to follow.

Just, Margaret

Pictures!

2009-06-27T08:19:00.002-04:00

Added a few photos of the dig to my post earlier this week. Check it out! Next up is a post of all the trio photos that we took over the last two weeks... especially dedicated to Mom and Pop and the three pairs of parents back in Georgia.

Just, Margaret

Whirlwind week in Bristol

2009-06-26T19:32:00.003-04:00

This was the last full day with all the cousins together and I think it would be safe to say were are all so exhausted... good exhausted mind you, but exhausted none the less. I thought showing them around Bristol only would mean a little less activity, a slower pace and I guess that has been slightly true, but we have still managed to have some really late nights. I think my favorite part of this visit has definitely been the time we've spent communicating and sharing about our lives. We've grown up under similar circumstances, but our journeys in early adulthood have been so different and that just makes for exciting things to share. We're all Georgia girls at heart, but no one's really lived in Georgia for years (Janell's in NC and Em's been in the Bahamas, though she is now moving to D.C.). Despite our varied journey's there are places where our lives have moved similarly. Listening to other stories I think is so helpful in understanding your own. I'm sure all this sounds cryptic and I apologize for not having a better account ready for you of all we've done and seen, but it is late and as I said in the beginning I'm exhausted. Pray for us as we begin to say goodbye tomorrow. It will be tough to adjust to life where I'm not a part of this trio daily.

Just, Margaret

Team Awesome and the Trench of the Trench That Wasn't

2009-06-22T20:41:00.010-04:00

Sounds like this should be the title of a young adult read right or at least of an installment of Encyclopedia Brown. (Does anyone else remember that kid detective?) Well though the length of this post might suggest otherwise, this is just an update of my exciting, fun first archaeological dig. So here goes... stream of consciousness from my head to my journal and now to my blog.

My first dig.

Location: Salisbury Plain, UK

Focus: WWI practice trenches on the MOD Estates

Not sure why I felt the need to list everything so matter of factly. I can't imagine how I might actually forget my first archaeological dig. It was not the most professional operation I am told by other more experienced participants, but it was certainly fun! I write this retrospectively several days later and my first thoughts bring so many smiles. I think whatever the manner of dig I would have found it fun, but the relaxed nature was great in that after the first few days I began to feel confidant that my lack of experience couldn't really ruin our finds. The purpose was to begin to recognize the value/importance training played in the Australian victory at the Battle of Messines. Second year the dig had taken place and though we found so much more than last year I think it would be a stretch to say they actually could draw significant conclusions yet.

Exciting though was the process. De-turfing- which I was not so

great at, digging- I have to say I didn't realize that there was so much digging involved in an archaeological dig [smile]. Then came the fun part- well the fun part for me. We began to find stuff! Not earthworks which were actually what we were looking for (hence "the trench that wasn't"), but lots of artifacts. Puzzle pieces to enlighten us toward what might have been going on at our site. very soon I was dubbed the "Finds Genii". Entranced by dirty potshards circa 1915-1920, bits of glass mostly window glass, but sometimes fragments from a bottle, charcoal and rusty metal. Thats just me, what can I say. Everyone saw a piece of plate or cup, but I already had a back story formulating in my mind of a mother offering a piece of everyday china to her departing son. Material traces of the human story. It was very possible that hands that touched these never returned home. I like to think my puzzling brain and penchant for embracing human stories make me a great archaeologist, though it probably also makes me flawed- seeing stories before the "facts" are disclosed doesn't make me particularly objective. I can't be perfect. [smile]

As the week progressed my trench team- Nick, my tutor, Esther (mentioned here by request), Niamh, and Joff- became increasingly aware that the practice trench we sought to find would not be materializing. We'd found a rubbish tip instead. Still a puzzling feature to Nick and the dig directors Richard and Martin. Late Wednesday through recording Friday- one or all of the them would periodically stand above our hole peering quizzically waiting for an answer to reveal itself. The only thing they ever decided was that there was some sort of layered infill of a probable crater. It was hard for me to get discouraged when we didn't find out everything- I still got to put potsherd puzzles together and use my trowel! Our biggest finds included a rusty bicycle seat, Camp Coffee bottle, HP sauce bottle, and screw post for barbed wire (see photo below of its excavation).

I did feel a twinge of regret on Friday while we backfilled the trench- our hole we had spent so much time making was now just to become a lump in the Bustard field on the MOD Estates. Mostly though I felt tired. It was a long week. My beat up knees, stinging nettles scared bum -yes I sat on a patch near our trench, and scuffed up hands, and my back longing for my mattress. Did I forget to mention we were camping all week? No, well, not only was I dusty and dirty and muddy from digging I couldn't get really really clean for a week. The campsite did have a shower block, but I ask you how clean can you get I ask when the shower spurts water only in 30 second (I counted) bursts and only about 10 seconds of that water that might be called hot. I'm okay with being dirty, outdoorsy, but mostly because it makes me so appreciate being clean. [smile] Sad day when we set up our tents because I learned this was a no-fire campsite. Please someone enlighten me on the fun of camping without s'mores and smelling of camp fire smoke. We did manage to enjoy camp evenings with that honest talk that comes from being together 24/7 and a few pints and the local pub. The first night we even began reading DRACULA together- Gunnar as read because his German accent was the closest we had to Translyvanian. Other nights spent talking of families, childhoods, ghosts ("No, but I expect to."- ask what this means if you like, though I'm afraid it might not be as funny if you weren't there. [smile]) It was fun to get to know my classmates in a new way. Finally I'll briefly mention the cold- because though it was June the nights were freezing! Literally. Josephine and I almost froze to death the first night, but as the week went on it got better. Nick was camping with us. And I can attest to the fact that even professors with PhDs wake up groggily after a night in a tent. [smile]

Overall such a fun week! Sorry for rambling on so long hope you'll forgive or that you at least found it somewhat interesting. I'll add photos tomorrow.

Just, Margaret

Still alive!

2009-06-22T07:52:00.003-04:00

Just letting you all know that I survived my dig and my first backpacking week with Em and Janell. I've already written a long blog about the dig that I'm hoping to post later today with photos. The photo above is of me with Emily and Janell in Edinburgh- a surprise stop (I'll explain later)! Much more on all the fun we've been having to come... I might even try to arrange some guests posts. All in all I'm having fun, enjoying life... hope you all are too.

Just, Margaret

Ch-ch-changes a la David Bowie

2009-06-05T14:41:00.007-04:00

Kinda a crazy song, but feels like my week. Changes a midst the busyness that is life. A quick update...

Still reeling over the fact that my BFF JM is living here now. And since now has her mobile we've been texting and iming on Skype all week. So nice to have somebody from my old life in the same time zone again... someone who understands the misery of trying to sleep-in when the sun is fully up by 6AM.
Again to mention the long days (sunrise a little before 6AM and sunset after 9PM)... makes for an interesting life with a little less sleep. Plus the weather has really felt like home (sunny and 80 degrees).
Sad to say though I missed a bit of the good weather on Tuesday with a horrible sore throat and summer cold. Not fun, but luckily didn't last long.
Wednesday I began to feel back to normal and gave a Rotary talk that morning and then went out to Wells with Pat for the weekly village market. Such a lovely town with a beautiful cathedral and really lovely 13th c. church to boot. Check out the photo below of the ceiling in the older church. Also where I saw my first real moat.
Yesterday I finalized all the plans for the first week my cousins are visiting. We're heading for a whirlwind tour of the East. I've mostly seen West Country since I've been here so to say I'm looking forward to it is an understatement. Plus it will just be fun to hang out with Emily and Janell. I can't remember when we've last all been together .
While I was in the travel planning mood I also began to arrange my trip to France at the end of September. My retreat to Taize is scheduled- a once in a lifetime experience (seriously since I can't imagine being able to get back before I turn 30). I've decided on one of the two dates I'll fly back to the states. Just waiting on confirmation from the parents that someone will be able to pick me up in Atlanta... I don't want to not have anyone in the airport when I arrive. I did that at Christmas and it was just too sad.
Also yesterday I decided to highlight my hair. Kinda an impulse decision... thought about it Wednesday night, went in the salon the next morning and 3 hours later my hair that had never been colored before was slightly lighter than before. Okay I know you probably can't tell much of a difference and I will admit if I were in Georgia this is probably just a little lighter than it would have become naturally over the course of the summer, but it feels very different to me. Why do it then? Well, I felt the need to be pampered and a little girly before next week when I go on my first dig!
After the salon, shopping with Jos for the dig. We both felt pretty silly buying clothes to get dirty in. Really an insane premise, but most of the t-shirts I would wear didn't make the packing cut when I moved here.
In other news, MY TROWEL arrived in the mail this morning. It feels like a trophy of some sort. Surviving the course and making it to my first dig is an accomplishment. I won't post a photo because Jos already did on her blog and mine looks exactly the same. And she is totally right it is like Harry getting his wand.
Finally I almost forgot to add that Wednesday I had tea with Bristol's Lord Mayor. It was at an open day at the Mayoral residence, but still rubbing elbows with Bristol's elite.

So overall a very busy week, especially when I list it all like that. [smile] Won't have my laptop on the dig, but I will have my camera. Hope to be able to update next Friday before I'm off to London to celebrate the Queen's birthday and meet my cousins.

Just, Margaret

Rush Sunday

2009-06-01T03:34:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I attended Pentecost services with Pat, my Rotary counselor, at St. Mary Redcliff- a church in Bristol once visited by Elizabeth I and declared by Queen Victoria to be the most beautiful church in all of Christendom. So yeah a pretty special place. The added bonus is that the service I attended included the annual visit of the church by the Lord Mayor of Bristol, a tradition dating back 515 years. Its adjusted slightly in our modern age from multiple sermons to just one and I'm fairly certain they would not have had video feed at the first service, but the pomp and circumstance of the event remains. The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress arrived in their police escorted carriage drawn by 3 black stallions, all the civic officials plus all the clergy were decked out in their official regalia. Rushes (straw/hay) was laid down the center aisle as it would have been in the 15th century. The civic leaders were supplied with herb and flower posies, a tradition that harkens back to the need to keep the stench of the masses from the elite's nostrils. The choir, which I'm fairly certain was all male, sang translations of Latin verse. The sunny day was perfect, illuminating the vaulted ceilings and brilliant stained glass. The smells, sounds, sights created such an overwhelming sensorial experience. The event has taken on an exclusive status in modern times... tickets being issued to secure available seating so it was I was lucky to be able to attend. The photos are from the arrival of the Lord Mayor and then the wine reception that followed the service in the garden. Sorry no photos from the inside of the church... that just didn't feel appropriate.

An additional note about the sermon. The words lived up to the occasion. The ginger haired ponytail bearing priest spoke of the need to recognize the value of differences within our ideas of community. Using the traditional lectionary (OT: Tower of Babel and NT: Pentecost event), he remarked that by valuing the stranger we become better able to be ourselves and embrace our own uniqueness. He considered the idea that Pentecost was the NT companion to the story of the Tower of Babel, but that it also was not the complete reversal of God's actions. Instead of restoring a common language, God created unity by embracing the differences that had been created. So a good civic and Christian message.

Just, Margaret

P.S. Spent some time looking over my June schedule this morning and realized I am really busy. Out of Bristol for a week with a dig, another week away with cousins, then a week back in Bristol showing them around the West Country, plus two Rotary Club meetings to attend. I'm sure it will be a fun/exciting month, but I'm also sure I won't have a chance to post often... maybe just once a week. I just thought you all deserved fair warning. Hope your Junes are as exciting.

May Film Review

2009-05-31T11:38:00.004-04:00

You know the drill.

SEX AND THE CITY, SEASON 4

Not sure if this should really be added to the list for this month, but I did spend a lovely evening with some girlfriends at MIH watching all six episodes on the first disc so I think it should count for something. Of course the episodes were funny and romantic, but what I always like best about SEX AND THE CITY is how much they remind me of sitting around a table with my best friends. When "The Nine" (my Carries, Charlottes, Mirandas, and yes even Samanthas) are together we speak our own language and picking up conversations right where we left off. They know me and its always nice to be reminded of that bond. (5 out of 5)

SHAUN OF THE DEAD

"A romantic comedy with zombies..." need I say more. Absolutely hilarious. If you have not seen it go rent it now. The whole concept sounds ridiculous, but that's the brillance of it... it actually is ridiculous. Aside from the romantic comedy framework and the goofy best friend, I think what I liked most about the movie was the use of plot and cinematic mirroring. So funny how the scene with Shaun walking to the corner shop on a normal day and a zombie day were so similar. So funny that Yvonne's team of zombie slayers is a mirror image of Shaun's. But the last scene of zombie-Ed playing video games in the garden shed was priceless. Like I said rent it tonight. (5 out of 5)

ANGELS AND DEMONS

This film was a lot like THE DA VINCI CODE- a criticism I also had of the book. Very talky, highly scripted, quite complicated plot. Still I did have fun with the historical mystery and glimpsing Vatican archives, even if just a fictional version was so cool, but that's just the nerd in me. [smile] (3 out of 5)

SNAKES ON A PLANE!

I first saw this super silly film when it first came out on video. I watched it again because it was on TV. When I watch a film like this I can't think about it or rate it in terms of a classic film, but if you think about the disaster movie genre, i.e. The Poseidon Adventure, Airplane, and Twister, then SOAP is a fantastic. It's perfect for a good laugh. "Spork?" "Time is tissue." [smile] (2 out of 5)

These next few don't seem to really fit into my review scheme... they're movies I've seen before actually many times (I own them), but happened to re-watch this month. So no stars, just a few thoughts about why I keep watching these movies.

MY FAIR LADY: Simply a classic. The costumes, especially the scene at Ascot, are marvelous, music great, casting superb. One thing that I always find difficult to understand is why Eliza settles upon Prof. Higgins as the man she loves. With every re-watch I almost expect the ending to be different, either she strikes out on her own with her new independence or she gives in to Freddie's devotion. Correct me if I'm wrong, but the play does end differently right?

COLD MOUNTAIN: "It's her. She's the place I'm heading and I hardly know her. I hardly know her. And I just can't seem to get back to her." An epic romance set in the beauty of the North Carolina mountains. I love the thought of Iman being spurred on toward home in response to Ada's call, "Come back to me." To be so loved... well I'm sure it only happens in fiction and film, still its nice to think that it could happen.

Just, Margaret

Bath Spa Station

2009-05-30T19:22:00.002-04:00

Another lovely day out with Blair and her Vandy compatriots. This time no rain, instead beautiful sun and just the slightest breeze. Bath was beautiful and we hit all the sites. The day ended with tears at the train station. It was hard to say goodbye knowing it will be a while before we see each other again.

Just, Margaret

Exchange by John Davis

2009-05-29T11:09:00.002-04:00

That's the name of the book I've been reading this morning for my dissertation. I had high hopes that this book would provide some theoretical context to understand the exchanges of hospitality during the friendly occupation period. Oddly enough I think it would work better-specifically the concluding chapter, "Symbols and cooked breakfasts"- as a thesis on dating. Words, materiality, and gestures associated with dating as with other forms of exchange are complex in meaning. The meanings vary by nation or tribe, community, family or individual. And don't forget the ever important role gender plays in the interpretation of these signals. For this language there is no dictionary... trail and error or perhaps anthropological study might provide insight. Obvious right but sometimes it takes reading it in an academic text to really sink in.

"People load their exchanges with meaning, and exchanges are symbols: they have consequences not only for life itself, but for the meaning of life as well... The studies of symbols are apparently less precise than the realities of birth, death. You can tell fairly easily whether a person is dead or alive; it is more difficult to know what someone means when they offer you bread or a stone."

Conclusion: Text not so helpful for my dissertation, but maybe my social life so worth it I guess. [smile]

Just, Margaret

Just in case you were wondering

2009-05-28T12:46:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was awesome!!!! I'm just a bit happy about it all. First I have to say the weather didn't cooperate totally... it was fairly raining when JM and Blair arrived, but most of the day we just experienced a cool breeze and that funny mixture of misty fog that I've grown to know and love (not really, but I'm being positive). [smile] Still it was like the old cliché... "nothing was going to rain on our parade." I do think I need to apologize for walking them all over the city and up crazy steep hills. I didn't realize how much work it is to walk around the city of Bristol or how many hills we have until I had guests. (I'll try to be more gentle on Janell and Emily- my cousins- when they come next month.) Apart from walking up and down hills in the rain, we talked, ate, just were. The joy of having friends like Blair and JM (and the rest of The Nine) is that conversations just pick-up right where we left off. Blair's Vandy friends were also really fun to meet and call me geeky or nerdy, but I totally loved the tour of Bristol Methodism I received as a tag-a-long. I will say it was my 4th or 5th tour of the city, so I feel fairly confident in my ability to now act as an ambassador. [smile]

After a great dinner at Wagamama's, we put Blair on the train back to Salisbury- they actually close the gates where she is staying and we didn't want her to be locked out- and then up to the pub with JM and to meet some of the HistArchs and a MALA. So fun though Blair was missed. JM decided to leave the next day so she camped out on my floor and I think we stayed up an extra hour just talking about really random things, but that's old roommates for you. Today we had what can only be called a "girly day"- shed a few tears watching the Grey's wedding episode (she hadn't seen it), had rose and vanilla cupcakes and lattes for breakfast. Then window shopping in and out of local shops including the OxFam bookstore where I volunteer and The Mews-the wedding dress boutique mentioned in an earlier post (I repeat, just window shopping-thought JM's himself, aka boyfriend, might like clarification). [smile] We did spend just a little money at a bead shop, but I am getting 2 custom made pairs of earrings out of the deal thanks to my crafty friend. Then more talking and window shopping and lunch. Finally around 3PM I put her on the train home, with promises that we'll get together again soon and promises that next time I get to meet Himself in person, which I'm totally going to hold her too even though I hear he has weird tastes in socks. (I do hope you know I'm only kidding Ian. [smile])

So a good two days, which have actually left me recharged and ready to do some research. Especially when I know Saturday will mean that I get to see Blair again in Bath. BTW thanks for all the comments yesterday... it means I'm totally winning in "The Great Blog Popularity Contest" going on between me and JM. [smile]

Just, Margaret

Reunited

2009-05-27T04:37:00.000-04:00

Two of my best friends in Bristol... priceless. To say I've been anticipating today is an understatement. Showing them around, eating out in some of my favorite places, sharing my ex-pat life with home. I'm mostly looking forward the opportunity to just to be the me I am with my best friends. Not that I don't feel like I can be myself when in Bristol, but there is just something about being with people who really know you that makes it so much easier, you know. Today is a gift and I plan to enjoy it to the fullest.

Just, Margaret

"A heart strangely warmed..."

2009-05-24T17:47:00.004-04:00

I was reminded this evening that tonight is a very special night in Methodist history. I think I'll mostly leave this post with the words of John Wesley the founder of Methodism, who like my good friend I am also quite partial to.

24 May 1738
In the evening I went very unwillingly to a society in Aldersgate Street, where one was reading Luther's preface to the Epistle to the Romans.

About a quarter before nine, while he was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed.

I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone for salvation; and an assurance was given me that he had taken away my sins, even mine and saved me from the law of sin and death.

In MethSoc worship this evening that began around five to nine, in the country of Wesley's birth and much of his ministry, as silly as it sounds I too felt a singular heart warming as these thoughts were read aloud to the small group gathered at the chaplaincy. Mine was a feeling of gratitude for the experience of this man 271 years earlier that has so shaped my life. Wesley's warmed heart was a part of the plan God had for my family. My parents met at youth camp retreat at Epworth by the Sea (in Georgia) essentially because of this event in 1738. I may not be a direct descendant of Wesley, but I do consider him an ancestor. The words also serve as a reminder to me of the need to keep open my heart to receive God and to remain aware of these significant "epiphany"/"Pentecost" moments. I'm not one of our family's pastors so I'm not going to try to preach any further, but I will close with a short verse of scripture I read this morning while at Quaker Meeting (another Wesley connection, but I won't go into all that now) that I think reinforces Wesley's thoughts.

Acts 2:25-28 (emphasis my own)
   I saw the Lord always before me,
   Because he is at my right hand,
   I will not be shaken.
Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
   my body also will live in hope.
because you will not abandon me to the grave,
   nor will you let your Holy One see decay.
You have mad know to me the paths of life;
   You will fill me with joy in your presence.

Just, Margaret

One minute I was walking down the sidewalk...

2009-05-21T13:41:00.004-04:00

and the next I was (how can I put this politely) sprayed from above by a shower of bird droppings. [pausing for laughter] You finished laughing yet. I know its funny. My first thoughts oscillated between whether to laugh or cry. Then I got caught up in the reality of having guano in my hair. Now after an extra hot, extra long shower when I used up the last of my favorite smelling shampoo that I brought from the US by washing my hair three times I still feel a little nauseous thinking about the whole episode. Further my body is as pink as my robe from being completely scrubbed to death. Doesn't matter that I only found the droppings on my wrists (in an odd mirror like position... the bird must have had good aim), there was no way I was emerging from that shower with any bird cooties. Still I have this weird feeling that somehow despite the triple dose of shampoo it is still in my hair. [uhhhhh]

In the shower I did have some time to reflect on why this might have happen and how I can go on with my life now that I have been used as a bird's loo. [smile] And these are some of the things I came up with.

Ironically, just yesterday I skimmed an newspaper article about birds, from THE DAILY MAIL I think. It was about how some scientists have proven that birds can remember people. The context was a bit different (pet birds instead of your average pigeon), but I can't help but wonder what I did to this bird to get him/her to react in such a way. Sure its been a while since I've "fed the birds", but I don't go around kicking pigeons. I actually used to think they were sweet.
What I never realized about being showered by bird droppings is that its a whole sensorial experience. Before the smell or sight hits you, there is the sound. SPLATT! I heard the sound, felt something akin to a brief shower of rain, looked around for the source, then reached up to touch my head and horror of horrors my fingers came back with a bit of brown stuff. [uhhhh] Finally the smell. So the answer to the age-old question is that "yes you do hear the sound of bird droppings fall before you smell them."
Now about the shirt I was wearing when the incident occurred. My blue oxford button-up from Gap is one of my favorite go-to pieces of clothing, when I can't decide what else to wear. Now its sitting in my sink with stain treatment that I hope will get out all the physical residue of "the event". Problem is even Shout! with Oxy-clean can't erase the memory. I'm afraid it will forever be ingrained in my mind as "the shirt that I was wearing when...". [smile] I might have to relegate it to the "to be worn on digs pile", especially if the stains of which I counted about eight (apparently the bird was really angry with me) refuse to come out.
Finally a bit of philosophy, it occurs to me that there is nothing better to teach one humility than to be defecated on by a bird. Let me explain... living in a pedestrian culture I have learned that some days you walk and some days you strut. The sidewalks can either just remain sidewalks or they can be your personal catwalk. Today, spent mostly behind my computer or in a cafe reading was more of a just walking day (though I did think my hair looked particularly good), but it occurs to me that I could have as easily been showered with bird droppings on a strutting day. You might say that guano from the sky is the great equalizer. It can happen to anyone and is a really good reminder that we are all just human.

One last thing, if you happen to get into a similar situation do not spend time looking up how best to clean it off clothes. Not because there aren't any sites offering advice, but because you will also be barraged with CDC warnings to avoid bird droppings because they are rife with disease. Just to say I was already feeling vulnerable enough as it is, I do not want to think about catching bird flu from this experience, too. [smile]

Just, Margaret

Summertime and the living is easy

2009-05-21T09:35:00.002-04:00

Predictions out for our bank holiday weekend weather: in the 70s and SUNNY!!! We've had several days in a row of sunny mornings and rainy (real proper rain... remind me and I'll explain later) afternoons. I do hope the predictions will hold true. Saturday I have a BBQ I'm attending and I'd rather not be soaked.

Just, Margaret

2 out of 9, soon to be 3

2009-05-20T10:09:00.002-04:00

[diabolical smile] My master plan to get all "The Nine" to become expats with me is working out just as I hoped. So maybe that's a bit of an exaggeration... some of the Nine already settled into lives in the States (homes, jobs, appendages*), but today the UK becomes the home to one of my other halfs... or ninths. [smile] Jane Marie- roommate of 4 years, best friend since freshman year- is moving here!!! And in 3 short days another "bestie" Blair will be in the country too!!! Can you tell that I'm excited? U.K.- Consider yourself warned. Beware "The Nine" invasion!

Just, Margaret

*Appendages in "The Nine"-speak equals husbands. Sounds harsh I know, but its really a term of endearment.

New music and teary eyed

2009-05-19T10:29:00.003-04:00

Another morning at the Bristol Record Office, searching the Lord Mayor's archive from the War Years. Anyway, I keep having the problem of getting teary over all the letters and accounts I’m reading. I’m writing this with the knowledge that it may make me sound very crazy. (Though I think knowing I might sound crazy probably denotes that I am not in fact insane.) The outpouring of goodwill, support (financial and otherwise) for the people of Bristol who were blitzed overwhelms my heart. Little kids in Britain and in the States were collecting shillings or pence for the people who needed help with bake sales, music performances, homemade crafts. I can’t imagine what community support like that is like. Maybe if I'm lucky someday I too will witness something like this. Amazing. So yeah, I'm teary-eyed, but with good reason don't you think?

Oh and the song above is a new favorite. Band is Dayplayer, song: "Neverending Summer." As seen on Bones season finale. I've realized lately that I really love pop music. Spoon, Tinted Windows, and now Dayplayer are my summer soundtrack. Okay, just for fun... another song by Dayplayer, completely different from the other, called "Peak."

Just, Margaret

The Optimist's Daughter

2009-05-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Part of my relaxing Sabbath included finishing reading the above mentioned book by Eudora Welty. With some books as I approach the end, my reading slows to savor the moments, others I just rush through to check them off my "have read" list. With The Optimist's Daughter, the pace speed up, but not to rush toward the conclusion, but to discover the end. The action was fairly slow. The relationships developed in this short novel were fascinating. Its the story of a woman dealing with death. Laurel the title character is both tragic and hopeful in her approach. She is essentially left completely alone. The meat of the book deals with her process of grief through the funeral and inventorying of the house. I'd never read Welty before that I remember, but I found her storytelling simplistic and profound. Below are just a few passages that caught my eye.

The guilt of outliving those you love is justly to be borne, she thought. Outliving is something we do to them. The fantasies of dying could be no stranger than the fantasies of living. Surviving is perhaps the strangest fantasy of them all.

   All of them wandered toward the rose bed... Sienna-bright leaves and thorns like spurts of match-flame had pierced through the severely cut-back trunk. If it didn't bloom this year, it would next: "That's how gardeners must learn to look at it," her mother would say.
   Memory returned like spring, Laurel thought. Memory had the character of spring. In some cases, it was the old wood that did the blooming.

   She ran her finger in a loving track across 'Eric Brighteyes' and 'Jane Eyre,' 'The Last Days of Pompeii' and 'Carry On, Jeeves.' Shoulder to shoulder, they had long sence made their own family. For every book here she had heard their voices, father's and mother's. And perhaps it didn't matter to them, not always, what they read aloud; it was the breath of life flowing between them, and the words of the moment riding on it that held them in delight. Between some two people every word is beautiful, or might as well be beautiful.

Consider picking it up and transporting yourself to Mississippi for a few hours. By the way if you needed further motivation , The Optimist's Daughter is a Pulitzer Prize winner.

Just, Margaret

Makeshift clothesline

2009-05-17T11:59:00.004-04:00

Sunday is usually laundry day for me. Let me explain a bit about my laundry situation. First you must understand that until this point I've led a charmed life, well at least in regards to washing and drying my clothes. [smile] The laundry rooms of my childhood homes (we only lived in one at a time, we just moved a lot) were my parent's, mostly my mom's, domain. We were asked to help out around the house (make our beds every day, set the table, clean our rooms, fold clothes ect.), but until I was getting ready to go to college I didn't know how to work the washer or dryer. Then at LaGrange College I continued to live my laundry fairy tale. Okay I was quickly introduced to the curse of trying to secure a free washer or dryer, but I through my entire college career I did not have to pay for one load of laundry. Yes you read that correctly. LaGrange College in addition to challenging minds and inspiring souls also treats their on campus students to free laundry facilities. I'd say waiting for an open machine was a small price to pay. Then again when I moved to North Dakota and Louisiana still no coin operated machines for me. In North Dakota I actually had a pair of machines just for me, so no waiting! It was great.

So I guess it was just a matter of time that eventually I would be introduced to the real world of coin operated laundry machines. And what better place than here. Luckily MIH does have a washing machine on site so I don't have to walk with a heavy duffle of laundry to a laundromat. Not so luckily, we don't have a dryer... a drying room yes, but no dryer. This has taken some time to get used to, but mostly it works okay. Except for this week. This is an old house and the boiler has been on the fritz, the heat of which helps keep the drying room warm. Consequently the room is full as its taking longer for things to dry and I'm left with trying to find a space for my clothes. I got about half of my laundry in the room, but the other half are back in my room "hanging out." (Sorry for the pun... it was just too perfect. [smile]) I've got them hanging in my open window, hoping our rain won't come back this afternoon. Actually I'm not sure how much good hanging them in my open window is doing, because its quite cloudy and chilly today. I'm counting on my good laundry karma. Here's hoping it works.

Just, Margaret

Eurovision 2009 and Dream Interpretation

2009-05-16T06:44:00.000-04:00

The United States is poorly served by our exclusion from the EU... not economically or diplomatically, but because it means we aren't exposed to the awesomeness that is EUROVISION! [smile] Cable networks in the U.S. are really missing an opportunity to capitalize on this oh-so-European phenom. A combo of Miss Universe traditional costuming and 80s dance music... it totally eclipses American Idol audition weeks with the addition of spectacular IT effects. Good thing we have YouTube. Search Eurovision and then tell me you think we're not missing out. [wink] Especially can't-be-missed performances include Hungary, Greece, and Albania. The above clip is the entry from Cyprus... the first song I happened to catch.

Jos, fellow histarch, author of "Researching Life," and good friend, is also into dream interpretation in her spare time. After reading my post earlier this week about the odd dream I had, she sent me these interpretative tools below. Gives a whole new dimension to my refusing to eat a hamburger. Gotta say some of it feels fairly to the point... anxiety is a pre-requisite to dissertation writing and finishing up my fifth month apart from the familiarity of home, family, and friends isn't really helping. Then again maybe I just don't like hamburgers anymore. [smile] Thanks Jos.

Eating
Food is seen as a metaphor to fulfill and gratify our hunger of love and desires
Also consider the pun, "what's eating you up?" in reference to anxiety that you may be feeling.
Food can represent love, friendship, ambition or pleasure in your life. Thus, food is seen as a metaphor to fulfill and gratify our hunger of love and desires. If you are refusing to eat, then it indicates that you want to be more independent and not rely on others so much. If you dream that you are a picky eater, than it indicates that you are holding back something.

Hamburger
To see or eat a hamburger in your dream, suggests that you are lacking some emotional, intellectual, or physical component you need in order to feel whole again. You may be feeling unsatisfied with some situation or relationship. It is also symbolic of your experiences and how you need to learn from them. Look at the big picture.

Just, Margaret

Photo on a Friday, but not "Photo Friday"

2009-05-15T09:29:00.000-04:00

I took this photo while in Wales last weekend (with a little photo shop magic). Something about the dove felt so evocative to the peace I felt that day. I waited for several minutes to capture the bird in flight, but wasn't able to get the image I was looking for. Still I think this one is pretty great.

Just, Margaret

3rd Anniversary

2009-05-15T03:44:00.002-04:00

Some of you know what tomorrow is because you share this anniversary with me, others are celebrating the event for the first time, and still others are celebrating with many more years attached. Tomorrow is LaGrange College graduation day. I remember that day really well... lots of excitement, lots of tears, lots of hugs, lots of goodbyes, then lots of packing, and more tears driving away. It was a good day. You know, though I think I almost enjoyed the day before better, well, specifically the night before, the last night in my college dorm with my best friends. Amidst all the boxes we all felt so excited. It was electric. The idea that our lives would change completely the next day I guess was in the back of our minds, but I just remember the feeling of enjoying to the fullest that last night of college. It was a special time. Congratulations on those of you joining the ranks of LC alumni tomorrow! Enjoy your last night to the fullest.

Just, Margaret

P.S. Maybe you've already read this, maybe not, but a recent post by a best friend reminded me this day needed to be celebrated. That second picture is of that special last night.

Happy Birthday, Mama!!

2009-05-14T14:43:00.006-04:00

Not sure what to write today, not because I don't have a lot to say, more like I have so much I could say. My mother is an amazing woman with a caring spirit. She lives fully into her roles of wife and mother. She is also a nurse. She's been a RN forever (at least forever in my world). She's worked in hospitals, nursing homes, teaching other nurses, an OB-GYN, and now she's working for our local hospice. And I have to say her commitment to care for others is one of the things I most admire about her. Its an outward manifestation of her beautiful spirit and faith and needless to say an inspiration for myself and my sisters. Anyway... I could go on listing more things I admire about her or reflecting upon our friendship and how blessed I feel to have a mother who chooses to be so much a part of my life... listening, talking, laughing. I think I'll stop here though, except to say: I love you, Mama, and it is a blessing to celebrate your life with you today.

Just, Margaret

Odd dream/nightmare

2009-05-13T05:37:00.002-04:00

Last night I dreamed I had to eat two McDonald's hamburgers. The weird part is that it felt more like a nightmare and when I'm thinking about it now the thought of eating the burgers makes me feel kinda sick. So I was wondering if its an indication that being a pescatarian is becoming more ingrained in my psyche. They say when you begin to dream in a foreign language it means you're really beginning to conquer the language. Then again McDonald's hamburgers might be frightening even if you are eating meat.

Just, Margaret

Its good to be exhausted.

2009-05-12T08:28:00.000-04:00

MIH Group Photo

Saturday I joined most of the other student residents of my house for the annual "Day Out." Loaded in a big coach with picnic supplies, we headed to Wales borderlands (Tintern Abbey and the Osc Valley to be exact). What a fun day we had despite the chilly wind and occasional spot of rain. We did see a bit of sun and my cheeks are rosy and have that warm summery feeling I've missed so far this spring. What follows are a few photos and a peek into my thoughts for the day... which includes some brief journaling I did while on site hence the stream of consciousness form. Something about just having a day to relax opened up my soul. The landscape, though beautiful in its uniqueness, was also reminiscent of the North

Georgia mountains. So the day was a strange combination of remembering and creating new memories. A significant day for me in ways I don't feel completely able to express yet.

It is nice to be reminded why you love something/one. Wandering around Tintern Abbey, I suddenly have this feeling of peace that I am doing what I love, that ruins still entrance me with their memory. "A lonely ruin what does it tell us about humanity." The poetry of space... It is so lovely to just wander and make up my own story. Very different feeling to my field trips with my course. Laughter with questions.

A word for the sound of water. Someone asked me if the English language had a word for the sound of the water flowing, falling. Suddenly English seems so inadequate.

When was the last time I lay down in a grassy field like this... years ago I think. [smile]

Hope you enjoyed the brief tour of my Saturday.

Just, Margaret

A painted night sky

2009-05-11T15:54:00.003-04:00

Its five to nine here in Bristol and the traces of our beautiful sunny Spring day are still visible in the sky. Its getting darker, but I can still clearly see people walking on the side walk and houses across the street. I love that we're having so much sun, but without the oppressive heat of a Georgia summer. This is exactly what I would call perfect "porch weather". It does wonders for my soul this sun. One problem: it makes it hard to think about going to sleep. And I'm so a full 8 hours girl. [smile] Anyway the whole scenario reminded me of this children's book my parents used to read to me. It was all about a young child who couldn't fall asleep in summer at her appropriate bedtime because the sun was still "awake". As a solution her parents painted a shade for her window of the night sky, with a star, sliver of a moon, and an owl (or at least that's how I remember it). I always thought it was so magical that she could just pull down the shade and it would be nighttime.

I'm so thankful for my childhood. I always felt so safe and loved. So many memories I could share... sack swings, a tree house, our little plastic kitchen, Skippy the duck, and Pumpkin the guinea pig. I should probably write these things down. I'm always telling others, namely my grandparents and other older adults I run into, that they need to preserve their memories for later generations. Guess I should follow my own advice. My life as a 25 year old is so future focused, but that I shouldn't take time to reflect about my journey so far.

I'm still sitting at my desk looking out my window and the sky is considerably darker. I think its safe to say that night has fallen on Bristol. The first stars would be visible if I didn't live in the city. Guess I'll start evening rituals, perhaps read a little, and seek rest and renewal. Sweet dreams.

Just, Margaret

All together now, we are the boys!

2009-05-11T11:55:00.002-04:00

I decided to listen to some more of the cds I hadn't considered in a while. Now I'm rediscovering Big River. There is this song at the beginning of the musical about Huck Finn and all his friends making plans for their gang. When it started to play I had this picture of my sisters and I dancing around to this song when we were little. Mostly we were content in our imagineering to remain girls, but whenever we listened to "We are the boys" I'm sure we all fought over who was going to play Huck.

Just, Margaret

Rediscovery

2009-05-11T09:22:00.002-04:00

A quick post a la "Keeping up with Katie": I've been in a music rut for the last month, just listening to my playlist of top-rated music from all the thousands of tracks I have. Today, while I'm working, I'm listening to Les Miserable from start to finish... something I don't think I've done since moving here. I love rediscovering why I've always loved this music. "The world is full of happiness I have never known."

Just, Margaret

Crying

2009-05-08T13:25:00.002-04:00

This is the week of short posts... maybe I'll get a little existential next week. Anyway the silly paragraph below will explain the title.

I just finished watching the 100th episode of Grey's Anatomy. Yes I hate to admit it but I am one of those people, a diehard Grey's fan. I can't think of an episode I've missed. I like the characters, but will admit that the last season and a half have been not so great. I think the reason I've stuck with the show is because it reminds me of my college years. Sitting around on Sunday nights, then Thursdays (though I never liked that it changed nights) in the common room with the rest of the girls were some of the most fun times. Really. When it aired on Sundays it would sometimes be the first time we'd see each other after weekends away. So that's why I like the show, back to last week's episode. I can't say that I didn't see it (the twist) coming, but that doesn't mean I could cut off the waterworks. You'd think that I had attended a real wedding. And the whole the best days of your life business, well, I'm beginning to cry again. Though my friends will attest that this is "just Margaret, being Margaret." I cry at sappy movies, Hallmark commercials, weddings, and often at the end of a good book. Happy tears and sad, they're all good. The only thing that could make the episode better would be sitting in the common room of our apartment in Candler (LCers-No way that I can ever call it Hawkins. [smile]) with my friends watching it of course.

Just, Margaret

Top Sales

2009-05-07T16:19:00.002-04:00

Today I picked up an extra shift of volunteering at our local Oxfam charity book shop. Since moving to Clifton Village, I've stopped by the bookshop at least twice a month. Most of the time trying very hard to resist buying another book. It definitely helps to have the local branch of the library right across the street. On more than one occasion I've found a book I'd like to buy then run over to the library and borrowed it. [smile] Anyway I decided a couple of weeks ago that I'd really like to volunteer a couple of hours a week at the shop to bring a little stability to my schedule and hopefully to take advantage of the opportunity to meet a few more people in my neighborhood. I've worked a couple of times so far and its been really great. Today was my first shift totally by myself and it went really well. The manager checked the afternoon sales and they were about equal to all that was sold yesterday. Perhaps this is because Thursday gets sales from people anticipating the free time for the weekend, maybe it was just a fluke. I like to think the spike in sales was because of the extra sweet smile of the Georgia "Peach" behind the counter. My mission to spread Southern hospitality wherever I go seems fairly secure.

Just, Margaret

Library days or daze

2009-05-06T06:46:00.002-04:00

Conducting some preliminary research yesterday and today at the Bristol Central Library. I've found some useful information, still waiting to hit that perfect source that will open up the whole dialogue of my dissertation. But sitting at my desk in the library now all I can focus on is my need of some caffeine either in the form of tea or coffee. I guess I underestimated my level of addiction today. I'm usually able to skip a morning or two during the week... this should not have been one of those mornings. Think I'll pop down to the library cafe and check out the fare before I take on the microfiche. [smile]

Just, Margaret

Wisdom of The Mews

2009-05-05T05:07:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite pastimes is just walking around the streets in Clifton Village, where I live. Its not a particularly large commercial area, but the shops are all quirky and you never know what you'll find. I should also clarify that Clifton is the "posh" area of Bristol so mostly I just window shop. Just a few feet from my front door is a small bridal boutique and each week they change the dress in the window. Some of the dresses I've liked, others I can't imagine ever wearing. Last week the dress in the window was perfect... simple, understated, and sweet. In saying all that I know it must sound like I'm one of those girls who when she was little planned out all that day would entail, but I promise I'm not, really. My little sisters and I used to pretend with our box of dress up clothes and baby dolls, but I can't remember a time when we imagineered a wedding, except maybe between Ken and Barbie. [smile] Despite that I must have over the years of watching movies and flipping through family photo albums arrived at some idea of what I might like because looking at the dress I just knew.

Anyway, all of that is just a way to explain why I happened to find myself in a bridal boutique last week in conversation with the manager. What was really more significant with the encounter than finding out who designed the dress and the name of the design was the advice the boutique manager imparted. With my negative response to her question of whether I was shopping with a particular date in mind, she said "just remember that you can't find the perfect man. We're not perfect so how can we expect them to be." It was as if she was saying the perfect dress may be attainable, but that's about all I can promise you for your wedding day. Anyway the whole encounter just struck me as quite unique and the woman to be particularly wise... maybe it was her years of experience with fussy brides. Like I said, you never know what you'll find while window shopping.

Just, Margaret

Skittles

2009-05-04T03:37:00.006-04:00

Last Tuesday I attended a pub night with my host Rotary Club. A little ways out from Bristol, we met at a pub that had a skittles alley. If you're not sure what I'm talking about see definition. Sounds like it should be a lot like ten pin bowling right? Well, its not really. The scale is completely different and though I'm not a great bowler, after trying both I think it really takes much more skill to play skittles. Just in case you ever find yourself in an English pub getting ready to play, I'll enlighten you to some of the "tricks," literally from the ground up. Beware the skittles alley. It's slanted... purposely and not visible to the naked eye. Arched in the middle making the task of aligning the ball with the pins decidedly more difficult. Then take the skittles, aka pins, themselves. They are shorter than bowling pins. Their shape with the bulging part in the middle make them harder to hit with the wooden ball, which is deceptively heavy and is just the right size to pass directly through the skittles formation without touching a single pin. Still its a fun game and because it takes considerable skill or great luck to play well, there's little danger of anyone taking the idea of competition too seriously.

skittle |ˈskitl|noun
1 ( skittles) [treated as sing. ] a game played, chiefly in Britain, with wooden pins, typically nine in number, set up at the end of an alley to be bowled down with a wooden ball or disk.
2 a pin used in the game of skittles.

Just, Margaret

Saturday night serenades

2009-05-03T11:29:00.004-04:00

At least once a week (usually on Saturday) I’m treated to the musical stylings of one or more Bristol “boy bands.” These accapello groups seem to gravitate toward my street in hopes, I presume, to win my affection with their vocal prowess, aka the MY FAIR LADY clip above. [smile] Okay so maybe that’s not entirely true. In fact I’m fairly sure serenading me isn’t top on their Saturday night agenda. Really its just a consequence of their primary goal- getting drunk. Nonetheless I hear them and though some may consider their loud ramblings obnoxious, I choose to consider it a reason to smile. It really is quite funny... I’ve yet to hear any group that might turn the ear of the Britain’s Got Talent judges. Some of the time I can’t even understand what they are singing. Lets just say annunciation isn’t key. I guess this is just a consequence of living in a city with an active nightlife.

Just, Margaret

April Film Review

2009-04-30T13:54:00.009-04:00

I'm trying out a new concept: the reoccurring thematic post. Over the long Easter weekend, I watched a few movies, all that I enjoyed, and wanted to recommend to others. Instead of taking up several posts I decided a better idea would be to review them all on a single day. With hope that I would see a few more films this month that I'd want to add to my review I thought I'd try lumping them all together in a post at the end of the month. As a quick preface, let me say that my tastes in films is quite eclectic. I enjoy a good romance, horror film, or drama. I'm most critical of comedies. I tend to think that very few really great comedies are made currently... the low brow humor that seems to be en vogue just really isn't my thing. I love Hitchcock classics and a new favorite includes films by Danny Boyle. I love old Hollywood actors, but I watch a lot of new films too. So on to April's watching brief:

AMERICAN SPLENDOR

I love this film. Part documentary, part graphic novel, part comedy, part romance. "Ordinary life is pretty complex stuff." Based on the graphic novel/autobiography of Harvey Pekar, it basically chronicles his process toward becoming a writer of realism comics. It is a must see if only for the ANNIE HALL-esque love story stuck in the middle. "Harvey, I think we should just skip the whole courtship thing and get married." Absolutely brilliant! (5 out of 5 stars)

LE BEAU MARIAGE (A GOOD MARRIAGE)

French film about a 25 yr. old art history masters student who decides she is ready to get married then goes about trying to seduce her best friend's cousin. Sounds like it should be funny, but it plays out more like a documentary. Lots of talking, but I found it interesting- probably because I could identify with the character (25, masters student, ect.) though I've never thought of trying to force marriage so purposefully. I found the ending as well as the crazy 80s French music and dress to be the best parts of the film. The acting felt a little flat, but that's also what I think made it feel so realistic. (3 out of 5)

28 DAYS LATER

Zombies infected with a virus that causes intense, violent rage. Enough said regarding the plot. As monster horror films go I'd say that this is a pretty great one. The concept is simple which I think is the best thing going for it. The fatal flaw in horror films is that the premise is too complex and instead of actually watching the film the audience is left trying to figure it out the whole way through. (Two great examples of the failed suspense thriller: Stephen King's THE MIST and as much as it pains me to say it because I'm a big M. Night Shyamalan fan THE HAPPENING.) However back to the film at hand, I also loved the twist in the plot. I don't want to give away completely for anyone out there who hasn't seen the film, except to say that there comes a point when zombies aren't the worst enemy. My favorite element of the film has got to be the soundtrack. Like in SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, Danny Boyle makes some unusual choices, but I think it indicates his expectation of his audience's intelligence. My only complaint I guess is that its fairly violent and I don't really like violent films. I think films can sometimes be just as scary without all of that. Overall though, a great film if you are looking for that rush of adrenaline that is characteristic of the best horror films. (4 out of 5)

SHAKESPEARE RETOLD

Not sure whether I should count this as 1 movie or 4... for sake of time and space in this post I think I'll lump them all together. These are made for TV films, but per BBC tradition they are "top notch," including up and coming British talent, great sets, good directing. The quartet includes modern (i.e. 21st c.) reinterpretations of MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, THE TAMING OF THE SHREW, MACBETH, and A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM. I think what I like most is the perspective of reinterpretation... Shakespearian quotes are littered throughout, but interwoven into the story to give just the right touch of classicism. The situations, settings, and language have been changed to fit the time. Brilliantly illustrates the storytelling mastery that is William Shakespeare. MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S was a bit disappointing, but MACBETH was frightening. By far, TAMING OF THE SHREW was my favorite... I was laughing out loud. I recommend renting them if you get a chance. (4 out of 5)

LES QUATRE CENTS COUPS (THE 400 BLOWS)

French film following the turbulent life of a French boy (about 12/13 yrs. old I think). He's labeled a juvenile delinquent by his parents who are arguably emotionally abusive and teachers. Considered to be one of the classic films of French cinema. I wasn't wholly impressed by the plot (very thin and not logical), but the cinematography was quite remarkable. In one scene the young boy and a friend attend a "Punch and Judy" show in a park. The scene is largely composed of close up shots of the very young children in the audience. Their expressions are so truthful and so beautiful. I have to wonder if the director just employed real French children to simply naturally watch the puppet show and used the camera to observe. The scene below has to be the most hilarious and I couldn't help but think if I were them I think I would be tempted to skip too. (3 out of 5)

IN THE LOOP

A fast-paced, smart, political comedy. Mocumentary style (you know like they use in The Office) that explores the ins and outs of political speak and the complex political relationship between London and D.C. I think what I like most about this movie was its focus on the aids. Neither President nor Prime Minister ever made even a cameo appearance. Overall very funny, but beware of the London offices penchant for shall we say "off color language." (3 out of 5)

Just, Margaret

P.S. If you haven't discovered yet, all the links connect with IMDB.com. Just thought it might be helpful if you read about a film you might be interested in watching.

Fast

2009-04-26T14:13:00.003-04:00

Focus has been something that has been a little hard to come by over the past few days. I blame the spring. Anyway, I need to really buckle down and get a proper proposal for my dissertation hammered out this week. So officially I'm on a blogging fast. No posts from me, expect one that I already wrote and scheduled to be post. Also, I'm going to try not to read blogs this week either. A total fast. See you next week.

Just, Margaret

A weird week

2009-04-25T05:36:00.000-04:00

A few days ago a friend at my house and I were reading our horoscopes, just for fun, from a magazine supplement that comes in with the Sunday paper. I don't really believe in all that stuff and neither does he. That being said the planets or stars or whatever certainly seemed to be converging into a crazy heap this week. Maybe its the spring weather- making everyone a bit cagey. Simply stated it was weird. I even had this whole out of body experience... at least thats the only way I can think to explain some of my actions. I don't really feel like rehashing it all here. Not something that needs to be remembered necessarily though I know myself well enough to know I will. It is over now. Things happened and next week we begin anew. In honor of the crazy week I've had and of "the Bard" who we started things off with, here's a quote from A Midsummer's Night Dream.

If we shadows have offended,

Think but this, and all is mended,

That you have but slumber'd here

While these visions did appear.

And this weak and idle theme,

No more yielding but a dream,

Gentles, do not reprehend:

if you pardon, we will mend:

And, as I am an honest Puck,

If we have unearned luck

Now to 'scape the serpent's tongue,

We will make amends ere long;

Else the Puck a liar call;

So, good night unto you all.

Give me your hands, if we be friends,

And Robin shall restore amends.

Just, Margaret

A digital scrapbook

2009-04-24T07:54:00.005-04:00

This Sunday I volunteered to represent MIH at a Methodist church service. Apparently they requested that a few students attend the service to talk about their church experiences in their home countries. What the church will be getting is an American and an Australian... not exactly the most exciting combo at least in my mind. I guess its still hard to think of myself as an international student. International students should come from exotic locales and Georgia just doesn't feel "different" enough. So the last day and a half I've been thinking about the experiences I've had in the United Methodist Church, basically since infancy though I've decided to focus on the last few years (missionary experience and such). They also asked that we bring any "artifacts"- actually their word not mine- that we may have to share. Since I do really have a whole lot of material artifacts I could share, I decided to put together a quick slideshow to loop throughout the morning. I've actually had lots of fun going through photos again. Finding ones I remember taking in Fargo and then Baldwin, remembering the different events in Georgia before I moved here. Its cathartic to reassess my life over the last few years in this way. Reminds me of the blessings, things I should remain thankful for. Not sure if the photos will make much since to people who haven't lived through the events with me... maybe they'll think their exotic. [smile]

Speaking of blessings, today is my beautiful grandmother's birthday. I don't think she would mind me telling you that she is 80. The women in our family don't tend to freak out about telling their age. I think my Grammy would say that there is no reason not to share her age because each year has added so much to the joy of her life experience. That's one of the things I love about her and hope that I can inherit. She loves people so fully and with such amazing joy and compassion. I love that I share her name. The photo above is the most perfect of the two of us together, but I love it because I think we've sat on a porch together talking or not talking, sometimes both intently reading more than any other place. Love you Grammy and Happy Birthday!

Just, Margaret

Its the little things in life.

2009-04-22T17:45:00.000-04:00

Tonight I had another Rotary event to attend (3 down and 3 to go before the end of April). I was speaking for a club out from Bristol. (Really small club and about half of the members were absent.) Anyway, one of the older men (in his 70s) who was there looked at me before I began my "talk" and out of the blue just said "you're gorgeous." He promptly asked if that was okay for him to say and I said of course. Flattery can get you anywhere with me. [smile] Plus I was having one of those days when I needed to hear something of the sort. So after my talk about Georgia was over and I convinced them all they should visit, he said the same thing again and added "I'm not sure if its because you remind me of someone or if its because you're a unique person. Lets say you're uniquely beautiful." I don't want you to get the wrong idea, the whole exchange was totally not creepy. He was just a really sweet old man... reminded me of my grandfathers.

Just, Margaret