A Nerd Blog Finale

"Leave your land when you are young. Returning, you will love it deeply."
-Herman Voaden

Well, dear readers, my nerd blog posts have slowed to a halt. I suppose life became too sweet to keep writing. I felt the posts lacking the energy and happiness I was feeling in Berlin, and I couldn't explain how much I was loving the city and my time there. Sooooo I disappeared from the nerd blog world like a thief in the night.

I often miss the nerd blog, especially when great things happen, like the following:
-The visit from Doctor, Tal, Rob and Alan in Berlin was the best hosting experience I have had
-St. Nicolas left my boot full of chocolate outside my bedroom door in Bonn
-I reunited with a friend from Lesotho after 7.5 years
-Steve and I have seen the biggest and oldest Christmas markets in Germany, and have thus become gluhwein (hot wine) snobs and will host such a party at 99 K this holiday season (okay, Lo and C?)
etc.

Today, we leave Bonn and head back to St Poelton, Austria, for a few nights. We'll do a trip to Bratislava and Budapest on the side, before ending up in Munich on Sunday. There, we'll stay with friends of Marie from my WWOOFing experience in Portugal. I've never met them, but they speak French, and I love random experiences.

On Tuesday, we begin the long journey home.

The month in Berlin was the best month of the 16 months I have been away. I already miss it hard. Perhaps I loved it so much because of how much it reminded me of my city, Toronto. Or perhaps it was because I was with a best friend from home. Very likely, though, it was because I was unemployed and chilling to the maximum. Still, it made me excited to return to TO.

I have loved writing this nerd blog. I am grateful to anyone who popped in to read once in awhile, and I am deeply flattered by all who were regular readers. Thank you. The winner of the DQ Blizzard for Best Nerd Blog Fan will be announced at the Gluhwein Party. Be ready.

Signing off, with love,
Emily Hyland Hincks.

Chapter 136: Lions and Tigers and Doctor

nerd blog post #166

Well, life is good. On Saturday, we went to one of our fave markts and looked around. Then we came home and got all dressed up for dindins at Massai, the African restaurant close by. I wore a party dress and Steve wore a tie. The food was really good and the atmosphere was nice. I also remembered how good plantains are! What a treat. In the evening, a friend of Michael Murphy's came over. He's a playwright and had one of his plays translated into German and it's being premiered in Berlin later this month. His name is Daniel and he's a nice guy. We had some wine here and then went to a little bar in the hood.

On Sunday, we saw another friend. A gal from Queen's named Wendy. With her, we went to another markt, and then checked out a part of the Wall we had yet to see. It had cut a cemetery in half, and abandoned a church. Now, they have built a new church dedicated to those who lost their lives trying to flee. There was also a look out that we climbed to see a replica of the death strip down below.

Yesterday was a clear day, so Steve and I headed to the Reichstag. After waiting in line for 20 minutes or so, we went up the elevator to the dome on top. It's all free and provides an excellent history of the building, as well as a terrific view. We were both happy we had waited to do this as we now know the city quite well. And so, from the top, we could identify the buildings, churches, parks and monuments we've explored from the ground over the past couple of weeks. It was really neat, and well worth the visit. From their, we headed to the Guggenheim Museum, which is free on Mondays. It housed a small exhibit, but a goodie.

Today is a special day because I got to go to the zoo! I like looking at animals, and hadn't been to a good zoo in years and years. The Berlin zoo has a ton of animals, and you can get quite close. Also, being off-peak season (and a rainy day), we had the place to ourselves. The hippos and lions (my fave animals) and seals were a hit!

And tonight, Doctor arrives. I really can't wait. I have made a sign that's on the wall and Steve and I have been planning some things to do and eat and everything. I have missed Doctor this month, and it will be so good to see him. I leave in ten minutes to pick him up from the airport.

Und that's all. Hope this finds you well.

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 135: Isabella

nerd blog post #156

So I have a weirdo question for you all:
Do you ever have an impulse to say something else right after something is said? For example, if someone says 'spooky,' I want to say 'Halloween.' Or if someone says 'marco,' maybe you feel like saying 'polo.' Well ALSO, when I write or think or say '135,' I then have to say 'Isabella,' because that's my old addy. Soooo that's what I wanted to explain.

I would also like to announce that I have bought a ticket back to Canada for mid-December and will be living in my parents basement for awhile. You are all invited to party there anytime. My dad does the best kegstand in the land. I will be settling in Toronto for a little while at least and am looking forward to returning to the city I love so much.

Buuuut meanwhile, Berlin is awesome. Actually, Berlin tends to remind me of Toronto more than any other city I've ever known. There are areas so culturally diverse and with such wide streets lined with trees and interesting stores that I can easily forget that I'm in a new city. Steve and I continually remark how much the city feels like Toronto. And I love that. Part of that feeling comes from the people. I remember how different strangers in Toronto felt to those of Paris, and that familiar helpful feeling is among the Berliners as well. Though this is a very large city, it feels safe and friendly and warm. And that is how I describe Toronto to people I have met over this year and a bit. "Toronto is a big city that feels like a small town." And I now believe that about Berlin, too.

On Wednesday, Steve and I went over to family friend's from Lesotho. They are an interesting couple who have lived and traveled all over the world. It had been fifteen years since I had seen them, and even longer since they were living in Lesotho. They had nice memories of my family, and I of theirs. We spent a long time talking about Lesotho. Their eldest daughter and her daughter and partner came over as well. She is quite older than me, so we weren't friends when we were young, but this time exchanged info and will hang sometime this month. It was a lovely visit and we hope we can connect with them again before the end of the month.

Steve and I have fallen into a comfortable routine here. We have favourite markets that we frequent on specific days, we plan our meals, drink good wine, get up and go to bed at roughly the same times, and walk for hours and hours every afternoon. We are eating incredibly well. I get pumped about cooking new things, and we have both been experimenting in the kitchen. It's bah-ring for you to read about, but definitely exciting over here. So the day-to-day nerd blog updates are maybe less fun for you than for us. We are living here, and loving it. And that's about it. As Bronco said, "Sooo what's up over there? Sounds like you two stroll a lot...." Yes, Bronwyn, yes we do.

We have some fun week-end plans lined up with a friend of Michael Murphy's from Toronto. And we are going to an East African restaurant for dindins tomorrow, which should be great. I'ma eat antelope.

Hope this finds you well!

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 134: From Canada, For Freedom

nerd blog post #146

Monday marked the twentieth anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. (Yes, we knew this before booking berlinpad.com. It was part of it.) Steve and I wondered what this would be like, and checked online and on posters to see what we should get up to that day. It seemed, though, that nothing really started until the evening, so we spent the day the usual way. We avoided the touristy parts, knowing they would be busy, and instead went to Kreuzberg, the hood we love. We looked at Turkish treats in windows.

After dindins, we headed to the action. We took a bottle of champagne and some dark chocolate treats in our gepack and took the metro to Brandenberg Gate. Once there, we were diverted on a death march through a large forest to get to the entrance to where the speeches, dominoes and fireworks would be. We went through a lame security check (bottle of champagne in my pants) and then joined the crowd. We made it to about 6 rows from the dominoes and were right in front of the B-Gate. It was amazing how close we got, and we figured it was because of the forest diversion and the cold rain. But we were happy. We met some nice Germans who were pleased we were there to help celebrate Freiheit.

1000 dominoes (which looked like painted theatre flats) were lined up along a stretch of the wall, and when they fell, everyone cheered. There were also speeches. But mostly, there was an attitude of life and friendship. I remarked to Steve that it was the nicest crowd I had ever been apart of. No one pushing or angry, but there to celebrate peace and freedom. It was an incredible feeling. When the last domino fell, the crowd erupted, and the fireworks began. It was pretty magical, and I hope I never forget the feeling of unity that was in that crowd.

Afterward, Steve and I wandered through the Christmas Markt at Potsdamer Platz, purchasing a delicious hot wine spiked with ron. We looked at the food there and I met some French L'Archies (a real treat) and then we eventually headed back to our neighbourhood where we met up with Nicole and Matt for a little bit before calling it a night.

It was an unforgettable evening. At one point, a radio station came up to us and asked us what we thought of it all. I used my amazing German to say that it was good. Steve used his better German to introduce us, and share that we had come from Canada, and that we had come for freedom.

In other exciting news, we made a really good pork roast the other night. And we love the Turkey Markt and bought a ton of veg there yesterday. And today we are meeting up with friends of my parents from Lesotho. Life is good.

Much love,
Hincks.

Chapter 133: Markts

nerd blog post #155

Well, it has been just over a week in Berlin, and I already know I will be sad to leave. It's a city that feels right. The people are super nice and helpful, there's so much to see and do, and it's affordable. Every single day has been a good one, and Steve has heard a few times that this was actually the best day in Berlin so far.

I appreciate all of the suggestions for things to see, and I also promise that we'll get to them all! It's nice having the whole month to explore. We have lists of things we want to see, do and eat. The lists are forever expanding, but everything still seems doable.

We spent the week-end at various markts. I didn't know Steve liked markets, but turns out, he loves them as much as I do. This is great news as I could go to a market every day. So for three days, we did. And saw five markets in those days. They were all different. My personal fave was maybe the Turk Market in Kreuzberg that sold veg and fruit for cheap and had a gritty and busy feel. We also saw some chic biomarkts and hippie flea markts. We bought a ton of cheap veggies from one of the markets, and otherwise mostly window shopped. We saw delicious treats that we added to the treats list. And Steve acquired a new sweater and a compass. Treasures for all!

In the evenings, we always enjoy a good dindins and then see what happens. We have gone out in our neighbourhood a couple of times, and also went out with Matt one night near him. Other nights, we sip wine or read or chat or go for a walk.

The weath has been as we expected. Mostly overcast and some rain. But also some sun! And when bundled up, it doesn't really matter.

Today is the 20th anniversary of the fall of the wall. We're not sure exactly what we'll do to participate, but we'll be there. There are fireworks at night, so that will be a for sure.

Hope this finds you all well.

Much love,
Hincks.

Chapter 132: Berlin Beginnings

nerd blog post #145

Ahhh Berlin. It's hard to begin nerd blogging about this city. We have seen so much and it is such a cool city. Soooooo yes. We arrived to berlinpad.com on Sunday and met Jorg (a friend of the owner) and he gave us the keys and left us here. The pad.com is WAY bigger than we thought it would be, and is perfectly equipped. There are cleaning products and tons of pots and pans and towels and an iron and even spices. So I was happy. It has a nice balcony overlooking a park, but as it's chilly, it's doubling as a beer fridge.

On Monday, we spent the morning grocery shopping and eating a breakie feast. Steve and I both like to cook (I'm still a beginner) so we were stoked to have this month with a kitchen and eat what we both like. So far we have taken turns with cooking delicious meals for dindins. We eat them with red wine and candles and it has become my fave part of the day. Breakies are also good. Mealtime is great in general. I would nerd blog about menu items, but there are other things I should talk about....

You may recall Clown Nicole and her bf Matt from earlier nerd blog posts in Paris. Well, CN isn't back at Clown School this year, but has instead moved to Berlin with bfM. So on Monday afternoon, they came over for a few hours and showed us (on a map) some cool walking routes of neighbourhoods to check out. We had a good visit and Steve and I were excited to have some friends in the city to hang with. They left early evening, and we went for a long stroll in the area, and stopping at a local bar for a beer.

Steve and I decided that what we both want this month is to discover the city on foot. So we have taken the metro to an area of town every day, and then walked for hours and hours. So far, the weather has been cloudy and chilly, but hasn't stopped our epic walks. In the three days we have been exploring, we have covered around 20 kms and seen some main things. Some highlights for me include:
-anything to do with the wall. It's fascinating. And with the 20th anniversary of the fall coming up on the 9th, it's easy to think about. We walked along the longest stretch of preserved wall (The Eastside Gallery) which has been re-painted by various artists for the anniversary.
-Kreuzberg is a really cool neighbourhood that changes from block to block, but has some really cool markts and stores and a large Turkish population.
-The memorial dedicated to the murdered Jews of WWII. Completely overwhelming and massive, and unbloggable in its power.
-the abandoned airport. Spooky Halloween.

Basically, everything has been pretty cool so far. I have realized, though, that I prefer to discover the neighbourhoods, to look into neat antique stores and to look at the people who live in their hood, than to walk by big churches and government buildings and be surrounded by snap-happy tourists. I think that the neighbourhoods and the people within are really what make a city interesting and unique.

There's so much more I could write about, but don't want to get too bah-ring. Things are great here. I am loving Berlin.

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 131: Dubbelglas

nerd blog post #134

After Innsbruck, Steve and I took a long train ride into Germany, to visit friends of his grandparents in Heidelberg. Heidelberg is a small town with a large university population, a huge castle atop a mountain, and a very romantic feel. It's a big tourist destie in the Summer, though at this time of year was fairly quiet.

We stayed with Maria and Verner, an elderly couple with a lot of charisma and champagne. They were excited to meet us and we had a wonderful visit for 4 nights with them. As all of our hosts had done, M&V rolled out the red carpet for us. Arriving at 1030pm, we were expecting to just go to bed, but Maria had prepped a salmon dindins for us and a champagne toast. It was lovely. Steve and I had the upstairs apartment to ourselves, and it felt like a fancy hotely.

The next morning, we had a good breakie and then headed into Heidelberg with M&V. We walked down the long pedestrian street and ate lunch at a brewery restaurant. Verner is really into glassware, and it was here that we received our first presie - a big beer mug from the brewery. We then visited the castle and it's museum. It was cloudy that day, but the view was still pretty.

The next day, we headed into an area called Vels (or something) with M&V that is soooort of like the Niagara region. It had tons of fields of grapes and is a main wine region of Germany. We hiked up another mountain to another castle and had a great lunch up there. I have eaten some of the best meals of my life in the past few weeks. Sauerkraut is delish. We ended the day at a sort of beer garden of sturm, that amazing wine cider drink. At this land, there were tons of picnic tables all in a row, and people show up with their own food and then drink sturm and chat with everyone. It's basically perfect.

It was on this trip that Verner excitedly introduced us to what must be his fave glassware. It's called the dubbelglas, and is a pint-sized glass with dimples in it. He bought us two, and they have been a hit ever since. Das ist ein dubbelglas! I will take them back to Canada and you can try them and enjoy.

And on our last day in Heidelberg, Steve and I headed into the city alone and climbed up the mountain again. This time we didn't go into the castle, but walked around the enormous gardens and saw Heidelberg from up high. We had a nice last evening with our hosts and packed up our things, very excited to unpack for good here in Berlin.

Before signing off, I would like to wish a most wonderful birthday to Bronwyn M. Sorbie, and award her 400 points for not being mad that I'm absent yet again! Love you, boo.

Signing off,
Hincks.

INFO

If you are interested in sending us presies us while here in Berlin, here is our info:

Hincks/Schadinger
c/o Sven Spieker
Schliemannstrasse 42
10437 Berlin
Germany

Chapter 130: Climbed Every Mountain

nerd blog post #145

It has been awhile, dear readers, and I apologize. But now, settled in berlinpad.com, the nerd blogging should be back on track! Steve and I arrived here two days ago after a great time in both Austria and Germany, and are now very happy in our little pad. But more about that latron.....

After Vienner, we headed to Innsbruck, and stayed with the daughter of Tante Gerthe. Lore is a lovely lady who teaches high school English and was pleased to be able to speak English to native speakers for the visit. Her husband, Lothar, has pretty good English, but is a French teacher at the same school, so I was happy to talk to him in French whenever we were alone. They have two teen kids, who were fun and outgoing and confident in practicing their English. We stayed with them for four nights, and it was a little sad saying goodbye in the end - they are a wonderful family.

We arrived on a Saturday, and had a delicious dindins with great wine and chatted into the night. The next day, Lore took the kids and Steve and I to a World Cup downhill skiing match in Soeldon. As an Ontarian, I haven't seen big mountains since Lesotho days, and the alps were breathtaking. So huge and so beautiful. We drove through them, winding up and up until we had to take a bus the rest of the way. At the top, we were amongst hundreds of ski hooligans, all pumped for the races. The kids went snowboarding and Lore, Steve and I set off to climb the mountain the length of the ski run. It was hard, but after awhile I started enjoying myself. It's no secret that I hate Winter and snow and all sports associated with. So I was a ski day skeptic, and when the others wanted to scale the snowy mountain, I almost stayed behind with the German morning-drinkers. But once at the top, I had no regrets. For one thing, Lore had chocolate. But for another, it was beautiful. We had a great view of the race (which was cool to see) and the scenery was unlike anything I can remember. The way down was too steep to walk, so I sat on my bum and slid down, which was super fun.

The next day, Lore and Lothar took us into Innsbruck and showed us the downtown core a little bit. It's a cute little city, set in the middle of the alps. So anywhere you look is pretty. We then took a tram half way up the mountain and went for a hike. Austrians love hiking in the mountains, but they also love beer, so there are all sorts of little beer gardens and restaurants (called alms) that you can stop at and have a beer. We did that, keeping with tradition, of course. It was a nice day.

Steve and I went into Innsbruck alone the next day, and went up the same tram in the mountains. Deciding we wanted to search out an alm kind of high up, we started hiking. Steve is a biiiit sportier than I, and I was panting like an animal as we climbed higher and higher. It was a death march, and in the end, we couldn't find the alm as the signage was not so good. But instead, we found some beautiful spots - waterfalls and avalanche clearings and beautiful views of the city below. It turned out to be one of my favourite days.

The evenings in Innsbruck were really fun, and maybe my favourite part of the visit. Lore loves games, and is great at rallying the troupes to play. She is also fiercely competitive, which is great. So we played the train game (which my fam has in TO), poker, and taught them Euchre. It was always a fun way to end the evenings.

On Wednesday, Steve and I left Innsbruck and took a train to Heidelberg, in Germany, for the last four nights of visiting, before coming to Berlin. But that's for another day...

Hope this finds you all well!

Much love,
Hincks.

Chapter 129: Viennerschnitzel

nerd blog post #145

Steve and I met smoothly on Monday afternoon. He had been waiting in the Vienna airport for a couple of hours before I rolled in from London. Everything about Monday went seamlessly, which was nice. We took a bus to the train station in Vienna and then a train to St. Pölten, which is a town 60 kms away, and home to Steve´s great Tante Gerthe. Steve has a big family so tracing his family tree would take too long, but I met a lot of his extended family during our five nights in St. P.

Bah. So much has happened I don´t know where to start! Well, Tante Gerthe is a wonderful lady with a lot of wartime stories and even more spunk. Though she never managed to remember my name (but did think I looked Italian), she was one of the loveliest hostesses I have had. Steve and I stayed in our own apartment, right above hers, and enjoyed our mornings with her, eating breakie and looking at old photos and maps and hearing bits of her life. She is an interesting woman. She also took us on a tour of St.P our first evening and, though small, it´s a beautiful town. She knows the whole history, and we saw how most of it had been destroyed during the war.

Throughout our time in St.P, we had a few family members stop by to meet us, the first being TG´s daughter-in-law who insisted we call her sons to hang with them in Vienna. This is what my family calls a forced friendship, and I was worried her sons may have their own lives and not want to give up their day to us. But everything about every Austrian I have met so far is hospitable, and before we called the sons, they called us. And so, on Tuesday, we met Günther and Martin (TG´s grown-up grandsons) in Vienna and they showed us around a very nice section of the city we would have otherwise missed. They also took us on a ferris wheel, which was a lot of fun, and from up there they showed us the best spots to go! So after saying goodbye, Steve and I walked to the centre and saw the beautiful cathedral and parliament buildings, national library, townhall, etc. It´s a really nice city, walkable, clean and the peeps are very friendly.

We went back to Vienna the next day, this time to visit friends of Steve´s parents who live in the suburbs. They welcomed us warmly with apfelstrüdel and cafe and we had a great afternoon visit. They lived in Canada for five years in the late seventies, and it was at a house party of theirs that Steve´s parents first met. Neat. They also have a natural swimming pool-pond that I fell in love with and will build one day (with your help, dad and Ion, thunks). They made some good suggestions about what other places to see in Vienna, and so when we headed back downtown, we went to the Twelve Apostles Keller, which is a wine cellar and is my new fave thing. Weinkellers are these awesome little underground joints that have a great atmosphere, good wine, authentic cuisine, and sometimes live music! We had a great time. I also tried a most delicious drink called Sturm, which is basically grape cider: wine before it´s quite wine but after it´s juice. So it´s very sweet and delicious. Sturm4life.

We headed to Vienna a third time on Thursday, this time with no commitments to meet other people, so really with our own agenda, which was nice. We went to the Modern Art Museum, which was interesting, and then walked to another nice church, and then to a different weinkeller, and then another, and walked and walked... Vienna is a great place.

The next day, TG's son and d-i-l came over and took the four of us to Melk, a little town not too far from St.P that has a famous monastery. It was built in the Baroque era and is covered in gold! It houses the most ornate church I have ever entered and a library that looked too beautiful to be real. We took a German tour (I forgot to say that there was a loooot of German going on in St.P) but TG bought Steve and I an English guidebook, so that helped. Then we went to a restaurant for dindins, and the whoooooole family was there. Four generations of peeps, children running around, babies being passed around the table, and lot´s of delicious food.

Which brings me to an important announcement:

Do not order wiennerschniztel with saurkraut.

I was the laughing stock of the dinner because of this kooky kombination. And I still don´t know why.

We went to the family´s factory after dindins and had a neato tour, and then tea and dessert at a second cousin´s, and then went home. It was a great, though tiring, day!

We travelled to Innsbruck on Satruday, which is where I am now. I had a fabulous time in Vienna, and hope I see those people again. Steve and I are already talking about ending the trip in Austria, though we´ll see how things pan out. It is wonderful having him here. I can´t explain it any better that that.

With love,
Hincks.

Chapter 128: Special Rainbow Jelly

nerd blog post#136

The last night in Birmingham was a goodie. UD and AS took me out for a delicious Indian dindins. B-Ham is famous for their Indian food, and it was very tasty! Later, AS and I had a hot date to see the new Ricky Jervais film. He is a funny man. I had one last sleep in that extremely comfy bed and left the next morning for Londontown. I'm not sure if I'll be back in England again this time, so it felt like a different goodbye than other times. I so appreciated their constant and warm hospitality.

Talia met met me at the train station on Friday and we walked the few short blocks to her house. She lives with four others in a sweet house with a huge common area and some nice guys. We went out around 4pm to the grad student pub (Tal's doing a Master's at LSE) and had pints there with her classmates. It felt a lot like Canada in there. I think because it really had the student pub vibe and I haven't been in a student pub since I was a student, sooo that's why.... We stayed there for a few hours. Her classmates are really nice and its an international crew, which is fun. Later in the evening. we went to a cheap pub to get some food. There, Rob Macnamera met us and it was awesome seeing him after 14 months of virtual correspondence. After that pub, the three of us took a walk along the Thames and across the Jubilee Bridge by the London Eye. The city and the water looked beautiful, and I had one of those surreal moments when I realize just where I am and who I'm with and how great everything is. The Guiness helps the positivity, too.

The cool (and by cool, I mean nerdy) thing about hanging with Talia and Rob is that we were all managers at the P&CC (the student union's copy shop at Queen's) and we all LOVE talking about ANY aspect of that job, and can do so for hours.

Talia and I slept in hard on Saturday, and by the time we'd had a coffee, breakie and a chat, it was 4pm. So I left her to do some work and I went for a long walk in the area, stopping in Middle Eastern stores and at a cool market and on a search to replace my boots that are worn out completely. No luck with that, but it was a nice outing. Upon my return, Talia's roomie had made KFC pizza and I tried it and it was delicious.

In the evening, we met Rob in Little Hanoi in the East End and went to one of the busy Vietnamese restaurants in the area. They were all cheap, packed, and offering the BYOB service with a tiny corking fee. We ate well there and stayed for awhile with the OB that we Bed and even tried a dessert called Special Rainbow Jelly, which wasn't so special after all. After dindins, we went to a small club called On the Rocks that played really fun and funky music of a trendy genre for a hipster crowd. We danced and danced and it was very fun. Then the place closed and Talia and Rob wanted food so we went to a kebab place and they ate and I had a beer and OPF. We took two night buses home and were very much looking forward to bed!

Today we are meeting up with Rob and Danny Mahoney, another friend from Queen's, and either going to a market or to the zoo in Regent's Park. I fly out tomorrow to meet Steve. It is his bday today, so he gets some points. I am having a fantastic time in London and it feels great to catch up with good friends and, of course, to dance.

With love,

Hincks.

Chapter 127: Thunksgiving

nerd blog post #134

It has been a great vacay in the Queen's England so far. I was in much need of peeps from home, and this is the right place to come for that! I miss the Portugal sun and the eternal Summer it was giving me, but the warmth from Doc and my family in Birmingham is worth more than that.

The visit with Doctor was great, but passed all too quickly, as it always does. We had a great 4 days together. We spent most of the time talking, sitting in the park, relaxing in his pad, and eating great food.

We had two thanksgiving dinners, of sorts. One was on the Saturday when we cooked up a delicious turkey (well, part of one) with veggies and red wine. We then watched a good flick called Notes on a Scandal, in which a lady falls in love with a teen. Natch. On Sunday, we went out to a pub and had dinner there. It was amazing. For 12 pounds, we had a roast dinner, burger and fries, and two pints of guinness. What a deal! Because we saved so much money, we decided to have a few more guinnesses, and chatted the night away. It was a definite highlight of the visit. As Doctor wasn't planning for my visit, we also did some homework. I read my book, Doc wrote his dissertation. We had a micmic, of course, and also amazing Indian food that we bought at the grocery store.

It was sad saying goodbye once again, and I look forward to the day when we live in the same city, let alone country. We have been lucky enough to see each other about once a month here in Europe, but it just isn't the same as every day, as it was in Canada. Luckily, Doc has already bought tickets to visit Steve and I in Berlin, so that's something to look forward to!

On Tuesday, I came to Birmingham. I love being here. It almost feels like being at 99 K. There's always food and treats and the bed is super comfy. I like the time when UD and AS get home from work and we all sit in the living room and drink hot drinks and chat and watch tv and checky e-mee. It's nice. I went into town today and looked in shops and am also working on applications for schools. It's relaxing here, and feels like home. I will miss these wee visits when I'm back in the homeland.

On Friday I leave for London and I'm very much looking forward to that visit. This time, I know quite a few peeps in that city and will see some good friends from Queen's. I'm staying with Talia, who I worked with at the P&CC and spent a week with in Cuba. I'm pumped. I'll also see Rob Macnamera, a good friend who has been a great correspondent since I left. All good peeps, all good fun!

England never disappoints. Hope you're enjoying the short week that comes with my fave holiday, Thunksgiving!

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 126: Farewell to fArms

nerd blog post #133

I ain't gonna work on Maggie's farm no more.
No, I ain't gonna work on Maggie's farm no more.
Well, I try my best
To be just like I am,
But everybody wants you
To be just like them.
They say sing while you slave and I just get bored.
I ain't gonna work on Maggie's farm no more.

-Bob Dylan

Steve pointed out this song to me. Gemma=Maggie, obv. So on Friday, I left the farm. The last couple of days were fine. I worked and hung out with Latoya. A new girl came on Wednesday from Australia and so my last work day was longer than normal, showing her how to do everything. I also took some photos and packed and all of that. On Thursday afternoon, the three of us were dropped off at the beach where I lay in the sun one more time. I already miss the heat and the beauty of Portugal. I said goodbyes to Lukas, my library friend, and the owners of the cafe I always went to. In the evening, Gemma joined us for dinner and we went to a great little restaurant where I had the best meal of the whole 3.5 weeks. Delicious fish.

On Friday, I headed to the airport by bus with Latoya. We had a few hours to kill there, and she bought me lunch (her parents did, actually, which was nice) and chatted and drank coffee. Then we said a little goodbye. She was very excited to go home, and I was a bit envious that she'd have family and friends and a boyfriend on the other end to greet her! Travelling alone can become tiring and lonely, at times. And those airport pick-ups really look nice! I am glad I met her and I hope her horsie life is a good one.

I eventually got on my flight to Liverpool. The reason I didn't nerd blog about leaving early is because Friday was Doctor's bday and I wanted to surprise him. So I secretly arrived in England and had exactly one hour and fifteen minutes to get from the landed plane onto the last train to Leamington Spa. This is not a long time, considering I had to go through customs (always the longest in England), get my suitcase, get to the train station, buy a ticket, and then finally board. So I sat at the front of the airplane and was the first one out, running to customs to beat the others. My flip flops broke so I ended up carrying them, and arrived to the customs desk looking like a train wreck. As usual, they questioned me for an annoyingly long time, and this time I was worried I might not make it in, but did manage to get through and finally get my bag. With the clock ticking in a serious way, I opted for a cab to the train station and when I finally got my ticket I had to get them to hold the train as I bolted down the stairs with my 22kg suitcase and my 10kg carryon. I made it. I also vowed to cut the weight of my bags in half, once in Birmingham.

I was finally in Leamington close to 11pm and made my way over to Doctor's. I called him to sing Happy Birthday from outside. He started telling me about the party the night before, which is when I started banging and shouting on his window outside. He nearly had a heart attack! I have never seen him so shocked.

And so, I am back in The Royal Leamington Spa, and we are having a great time. More nerd blogging latron. For now, though, Happy Thunksgiving. This was my fave holiday back in Canada. I don't know if it's a good thing or not, but I have gotten used to missing out on holidays back home, and today doesn't feel much different. Still, Canada is always on my mind. Enjoy the turkey and the family and the fall colours!

With love,

Hincks.

Chapter 125: My Little Pony

nerd blog psot #130

The other day, my pal Lukas took me outside of the beachside retaurant and pointed to the one cloud in the sky. Though a series of Portuguese explanations and full-body sign language, I got the feeling he was telling me rain was to come. Rain, here? In paradise!? Never....

But Lukas was right. It started raining yesterday and hasn't stopped. Warm, fat raindrops everywhere. It's actually kind of nice, but I do miss that hot sun. Last night was wonderful. I lay in the caravan and listened to the rain beating down on the roof and it reminded me of the rainy nights in Lesotho when a similar sound was heard on the tin roof above us. It's a beautiful thing.

Despite the rain, the work continues. Piri-piri's couch was finished today, and sheet lane is also finished. I have learned a great deal here, mostly about horses. I have seen a foal separated from her mother and then trained in the ring. Another mare is being broken now, and today wore a saddle for the first time. She reared up, her front legs much higher than Latoya's head, and my job was to stand by the fence so she didn't run out. I definitely don't have the experience to train a horse like that, but have learned how to launch two of the horses, and it's an added (and exciting) duty of my work day. I take the stallion out, groom him and clean his hooves, and then attach a long rope to him. I stand in the middle of the sandy ring with a whip and make him walk, trot, gallop and do a crossy-leggy trick. It's a really amazing feeling. The stallions are trained to be able to understand a multiple of commands. When I'm on the ground, they know what to do by the position of the whip, as well as by oral commands (in Dutch). While on the saddle, they know what to do by the position of my body on the saddle, as well as by my voice. It's neat.

Still, the stallions can be unpredictable, and there have been some scary moments. Jacto reared up once when I was riding him because he saw his gf, and another of the stallions, X-Otico, bit my shoulder once, I don't know why. There was a round bruise there for a week. I have also had them step on my feet, which kills as they're over 600 kgs. X-Otico once head butted me, sending me flying into a fence, a cm of barbed wire lodging into my hand. But all in all, they have been patient with me, and I like them all very much. In fact, I am considering stealing Piri-piri, as Ion suggested.

And that's all for now.

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 124: Rabbit Stew

nerd blog post #135 Isabella

I have wanted to write about the cork trees for awhile. This may be a bit bah-ring, but I think it's really cool. Portugal is the lead producer of cork, and right next to the farm is a huuuuge cork tree farm. They take off the bark and then the tree is red and then they paint the last number of the year on the tree. As the years go, the bark regrows and the number fades. So you can see all shades of brown and red on the trunks of trees, with the number of when it was trimmed. Every ten years, the cycle is repeated. And that's all about cork.

Next. When I was a teenager, I was seldom left home alone. And the first time I was ever left alone over night was when I was 19 and had already left home. My parents thought I would throw a party in their absence. Me?? A party!? Ahhhhh, how wise they were. I would have thrown the biggest jam Malvern had ever seen. Unfortunately, Gemma does not know me as well, and on Saturday she left me all alone at the farm from 5am until 10pm.

The morning went well. I realized how much I have learned in such a short time. I did all of the horsie things alone, and with confidence. I worked on Piri-piri's couch and raked sheet lane and pulled weeds and cleaned houses and washed clothes. And theeeen I wanted a bit of adventure.

On the week-ends I always hear gunshots in the fields behind our farm. It's the sound of men hunting wild pigs, quails (or some sort of small, fat bird), and rabbits. I have wanted to try my Mallorca gun skillz out, so decided I would join them. I couldn't get to the field any normal way because of how the property is built, so had to shimmy out of the bathroom window and over a fence and into their field. I wore bright colours so they wouldn't shoot me by accident. The men were very nice and spoke no English, but with universal sign language, they told me what they were shooting and that I could try. All of a sudden, a rabbit popped his ears out of a hole and the man gave me his big gun and explained I could try three times to get the rabbit. So when the rabbit came out of his hole, I had my first try at real life shooting. I missed, unfortunately, learning that a moving target is far harder than one pinned to the wall. Still, it was great fun and I thanked them and then watched for a bit and then returned to the farm to read my book. I think I'd like to learn the skill of the huntress one day.

Yesterday, Latoya and I came to Alcochete in the evening and had a really good time. We decided to go out for dindins, and chose a nice restaurant in the main square. There, we shared a big fish dish, their house specialty. It had cod and shrimp and was really tasty. The waiter seemed to like us, and gave us a free litre of wine, dessert, some Spanish liqueur, and his diggies. Latoya and I are getting along really well, which is good since we spend so much time together. She makes me laugh a lot. She says the most absurd things and is such a teenager and I love it.

I have two friends in Alcochete. One is the woman who works at the library and whose name is Louisa. She has adult braces but is really nice and trendy. I discovered that she spoke French, and then that she's half French and born in Lyon, so the other week we got to talking. And last Wednesday on my day off we went for lunch during her break. She's nice. The other is Lukas, who works at the beach-side restaurant. Lukas serves me cafe and is about sixteen. He speaks no English, so our friendship consists of me standing at the bar and pointing to things and him telling me their name in Portuguese. It's really, really deep. Straw. Napkin. Tray. Yeah, Lukas and I are tight.

That's all I have time for today. Hope this finds you well!

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 123: Red Bull

nerd blog post #134

Well at least the farm isn't bah-ring! So much happens every day that it's hard to even think of what to write about.

After Marie's departure, I moved into the caravan. I love it in there. My old bed was a high one, about 3 feet from the ceiling. A foot above my head was the mosquito net, which meant I couldn't even roll over without being suffocated in the smelly thing. So I was happy to move into my own place, where I could sort of unpack (there was no space in the old place, my suitcase was on my bed with me) and have some more privacy. I have decided that I would like to live in a caravan one day, at least for awhile. It rules.

As I mentioned in the last post, Gemma likes company, and last Saturday night (Marie was still here), she announced that that night, we would go to the discotheque. Huh!? Okay! So we all got ready on our own. The three others were near strangers to me. It had been under two weeks since my arrival, so was a weird thing to be doing. Plus, the age range is 31 years. Strange. Still, I put on my clubby clothes and heels and exited my room. I was met with the other three, and we were quite the funny group. Latoya was dressed to impress, with loads of make up, thigh-high leather boots, a small shirt. Marie wore her usual runners and baggyish jeans and a t-shirt. And Gemma had her white Michael Jackson pants, the outside seam unbuttoned. I laughed out loud several times in the evening thinking of the absurdity of it all, and wishing I had a friend to be there and witness the awkward hilarity of the evening. We went to a club in Montijo, a nearby town, and hung out in the Spanish music room. There, sexy cops taught us routine dances and we drank various bevies. We danced our faces off until 5am. It was great fun. We all danced with the Portuguese men, even Gemma. She also let her waist-length hair out of it's tight-knit braidbun. It was one of the funniest nights of the year.

Last night, Latoya and Gemma and I went to Lisbon for a bullfight. I debated going. I dig animals and not animal cruelty. But it's a wishy-washy area. It's a cultural event that dates back 250 years and is mainly to showcase Lusitano horses, and brave men. There is also a lot of myth that surrounds how the bulls are treated. I did some research before agreeing to go, and then decided that it was a once in a lifetime type of thing, and that I should go and then decide how I feel about it.

There were protestors outside of the arena, and I was glad to see them. It shows that while it is a national pasttime, it's also controversial, and people should be thinking about it in a critical way. Still, I didn't join them, but handed my ticket to the man and went to my seat.

We had great seats. They were the cheapest ones and near the top, but we had a railing right in front of us and were directly opposite of where the bull is released (like being across from home plate). Last night was a speshy gala night, so there was a huge processional parade beforehand, where everyone was introdued with their horses and in traditional outfits etc etc. And then there were six "rounds" or whatever. Basically, a man on a horse comes out with two helpers (who wave the sheet thing) and then the bull is released from behind doors. The bull has been annoyed, so comes out disoriented and angry. Then the man puts spears in the bull's back and it bleeds a lot. Then the man switches horses. Rinse and repeat a few times. Then a line of men come out and all try and tackle the bull. They sometimes try several times. Then they send out a herd of cattle who try and get the bull back into its area. Then a new man and a new bull and new everything, but the same.

The poor bull!! Kind of, but actually I didn't feel so badly for it. The bulls are four or five years old and have spent their lives in a large field with their buddies. If they're right for the fight (weighing over 600 kgs, perfect horns, etc), they are taken that day to the bullring, annoyed behind the doors, spend 20 minutes angry and getting stabbed, and then are taken to the meat factory. The alternative is not making it to the bullring, and going to the meat factory. So really, it's a different fate of one day. If the bull is really good, he has the chance to be stitched up and used for breeding. Also, the area of the back that is stabbed is really fleshy, so bleeds easily, and has less nerves that the rest of their bodies. While watching the bull, it was as if he was stung by a mosquito, not stabbed with a spear. They didn't get weaker or even seem to tire really. So I don't think there's much pain. And they can only be released into the ring once, otherwise they'd know what to expect. So whatevs.

Really what was astounding was how macho it all was. I'm supposed to cheer for a man on a horse who has been doing this professionally for years? A man who is smarter than any bull, knows what to expect, and is riding a horse that will always be faster and has done this countless times? Um, no thunks. The bull is totally confused, having been uprooted from his green pasture hours ago only to be thrust into mayhem, and I'm supposed to be happy for the man who's attacking him? It's absurd.

I enjoyed seeing the bullfight. It was an event, it was highly theatrical, and it was a night out (that went from 10pm until 3am!) in Lisbon. So no regrets going. But I definitely had my full of bullfighting and I think it's a weirdo and unnecessary "sport."

Otherwise, life is continuing just fine. My time is running out, so I should go. Hope this finds you all well!

Much love,
Hincks.

Chapter 122: Sheet Lane and Piri-piri's Couch

nerd blog post #130

So Marie left on Sunday and it was a bummer to see her go. She was a real friend to me and I already miss our chats. So now the only volunteers are Latoya and I. Latoya and I get along just fine. She drove Marie mad, but I understand her a bit better, I think, because her attitude is a little like mine was some years ago. Latoya has a big group of friends in Amsterdam that she text messages morning to night, and a boyfriend that she talks about incessantly. This is the longest time she's been away from her family and the longest she hasn't seen friends. If she's alone for five seconds, she's bored. No lie. I remember what I was like as a teenager. I would spend all my time with my friends, and if I was at home, I was on the phone with them. If my parents grounded me (a frequent event), I would be bored within minutes, unable to entertain myself whatsoever. My dad suggested finding a hobby, but I HAD a hobby, and it was hanging with my friends. Duh. This is what Latoya is like, and this is why I can empathize with her boredom. I actually think she's quite brave coming this far on her own for her school placement, and she has a confidence with the horses that I envy. I learn a lot from her and enjoy working with her.

I had hoped that by now I would be able to say that I was wrong about Gemma, that really she's a sweetheart and we have become close friends. Unfortunately, though, Gemma's type is one I have not often encountered. In fact, I can think of only one person who reminds me of Gemma. She came in the form of an eight year old girl, and I babysat her about ten years ago. Her name was Lindsay and I was sure she had a red, pointed tail underneath her pristine, pink, party dress.

Luckily, I have been able to predict when the storm begins to brew, and have mostly stayed out of the way of Gemma's wrath. We have had three small disagreements, but have managed to exist together at the farm in an okay way. I guess the way I see it is that I'm a volunteer, an adult, and someone happy to work and work hard. But WWOOFing is an exchange, and there is a certain mandate that comes with it, and when I'm really upset with how I have been treated or when I think the work demanded of me is not of my responsability, I will put my foot down. Gemma doesn't like this, but I am not a slave. I don't want to get into it too much, because there is a lot that I like about being here. And I know that if I were to write it all out I'd have a small army at the farm ready to pick me up, with torches and spears like in Beauty and the Beast. I'm obvi Beauty.

One great thing about the work is that Gemma has assigned to me two projects that I enjoy very much. The first was announced about a week ago, and that it was that I was to "build a sheet lane," which I eventually discovered was to construct a road out of the manure of the horses that I clean after. The road will be about 500 metres, but first I had to weed it and turn the soil, a big project in itself. Everyday Sheet Lane is growing longer, and when it's finished, I'll lay down a second layer. It looks good and it's nice to have something to be proud of.

The second project announced was harder to decipher, and ended in Gemma yelling in frustration. She instructed me to, "paint ze couch." Which couch? "Ze couch in stock room!" I returned from the enormous stock room to tell her that I had searched everywhere and could not find the couch. She stormed off to the stock room and I followed, and she pointed furiously to a small carriage/cart, "Here! Paint zis! Paint Piri-piri's COUCH!" Oooohhhhhhh COACH. And so my second project began, first scraping and sanding, and now the first coats of the couch that Piri-piri will be trained to pull. I enjoy this job as well, because I do it on my own and, like Sheet Lane, can see the progress daily.

The other chores continue as well, which means my day has been stretched to about 3:30 on most days, and usually later. I have eight horsie stalls to clean, the barn to sweep, I ride Jacto, clean the outside paddocks, clean the houses, do laundry, clean the vehicules, oil the leather of the horse equipment, feed the horses, and do any other job I am given. Latoya mostly works with training the horses, which leaves the dirty work for me, but I like it so don't mind. Gemma sits on a chair in the shade and drinks coffee and gives orders. I take my first break at 11am, which is when I change from my jeans and t-shirt into my afternoon wear. I keep my half boot on, of course, but then wear a bikini. Latoya has taken to doing the same, and it keeps us cooler and works the tan. Gemma doesn't care what we wear, so it works out well. I also have Queen's-style coveralls when I work on Piri-piri's couch. I am notorious for painting myself more than the thing to be painted.

Since I arrived over two weeks ago, there have only been four afternoons where I have stayed on the farm. This is where Gemma shines. She likes the company, and so invites us to wherever she is going in the afternoon. Often it's to Alcochete where we split up. Latoya and I go on the internet, or to the beach, or have a coffee. I have also visited four or five nearby towns. We return around 8pm, when Latoya and I feed the horses, relax a bit, and wait for the late dinner. I try and go to bed between 10 and 10:30.

We have had two special outings, and have another one tomorrow night, but I will nerd blog about them latron. Today is my day off and decided to spend it in Alcochete. I had business at the post office, am now in the library, and then will head to the beach. Gemma drove me to town on the way to a meeting, but I'll find my own way home. She charges 10 Euros for pick up if they're not on her way, and she'd have to make a special trip for me. For financial reasons, and mostly out of principal (10 E is far more than it costs, and it's my only day off in a week, do a favour!), so I will walk the 12 kms back to the farm. But I am very happy for a day off to enjoy this little town!

I am healthy and happy and enjoying my time here. I love this country and the farm is beautiful and it's nice to be without electricity and living simply. I will be happy and ready to meet Steve in Vienna on the 19th of October!

Hope this finds you all well.

Much love,
Hincks.

Chapter 121: Lisboa4Life

nerd blog post #130

4Life, or at least 4aDay. It was my day off yesterday, and was much needed! I awoke at the same time as usual, as my room is also the kitchen/bathroom/dining room, but I was happy to be up then as I always wanted to walk down the road and see the sun rise over Lisbon. A few hours later, I was off to Lisbon for the day. I take a bus from a round-about that Gemma drops us off at, to a train station in Lisbon where I can catch the metro. It only has three lines so is very easy to navigate. I had a wonderful day. It was nice to be on my own and able to walk around. I found, though, that after seven straight days of physical labour, my muscles were pretty tired... Still, I hiked up to a castle atop a small mountain and had a spectacular view. I ate my micmic lunch up there before making my way down. Then, I roamed the streets, walking up and down the cobblestone and staying out of the historic centre which is full of tourists. Finally, my love of postcards got the better of me and I entered the centre, which is very beautiful, and had a coffee while writing. I also saw the port, some famous statue, and enjoyed my micmic dindins while watching boats near the harbour. I was there about eight hours, and it was great. It was, however, the hottest day we have had here so far, reaching almost 40º! Today is also hot at 36º and the week will continue like this. I love it.

Other notable points:
-Gemma has three little kittens that she is planning on breeding. They are super cute and very small and playful. The other day, I went into my room because there were meows coming from within. I entered to find the smallest of the three, Latina, all wrapped up in a fly strip! It was pretty hilarious, but impossible to get off of her. Now, days later, she is still sticky all over her fur... We tried washing her and even cutting some of her fur, but she is a sticky mess.

-There was a mother and foal in the field and the mother was really skinny and needed to come to the farm to eat more and not walk around so much so she can gain weight. It's amazing how the behaviour of the stallions has changed since she arrived. When she walks past, she doesn't give them a second glance, but they go absolutely crazy. They neigh, stomp their feet and even go up on their hind legs. And Malagetta just walks on by..... Piri-piri, who doesn't even reach my waist (a mini-Shetland) is the most in love, though he could never stand a chance. He thinks he's the biggest stallion of all - what a complex.

-Marie leaves on Sunday and I will be very sad to see her go. We have become very close and talk a lot, and her being here balances out the three of us nicely. I will certainly miss her and hope we stay in touch. I will also miss the French. I miss Paris quite a bit while I'm here... The beauty of the city and how good I felt there, but speaking French with Marie brought me a little closer to it, so it's a shame I'll lose that.

-On Tuesday we went on a boat ride on the River Tejo. it was an hour and half and took us from the port in Alcochete to right near Lisbon. It was a beautiful, Portuguese-style sail boat and it was filled with locals from Alcochete. They played nice music on it and I enjoyed the trip very much.

That's it for today! Hope this finds you all well.

Much love,
Hincks.

Chapter 120: Introoooduuuucing......

nerd blog post #125

So I'm here in Portugal, and would like to introduce you to a few special things... And so, INTROOODUUCING.....

...The Farm
Which is located 30 kms from Lisbon. The closest town is only 12 kms away, but 8 of them are on a dirt road. From outside of the farm, I can see the River Tejo, and across from it, Lisbon. The view is spectacular from everywhere. At night, I lay on a lawn chair and watch for shooting stars. The sky is so clear and the milky way is brighter than I can ever remember seeing it. It's beautiful. The houses are Portuguese style and I stay in the worker's kitchen/bathroom/living room area, on a raised bed. I sleep under a mosquito net. At the farm are 4 stallions and 3 mares. The other mares are 2 kms down the road in a large field and we walk there every day to feed the mother. It really is picturesque. There is no electricity, which is fairly easy to get used to as long as you remember where your pjs and morning clothes are! We have wind up lanterns and candles which help. We wash our clothes by hand have no fridge and the hot water is scarce so we can only shower for 3 minutes ... every 3 days. No joke. It's gross. Luckily I have never been one for showering so I don't mind so much.

...The Critters
Flies and mosquitos are everywhere, which is super annoying. I have also seen snakes and large beetles and massive spiders and little lizards. More interesting are wild rabbits and hares, foxes, storks (in big nests!) and, my favourite, hundreds and hundreds of pink flamingoes. In the early evening, they fly across the pink sunset, which is quite the sight.

...Latoya
From Amsterdam, she is the twenty year old epitome of a horsie girl. Her daddy bought her one (which she named Pacific Ocean) a few years ago. She is here with a placement through her horsie school. She knows a lot about horses and has been my teacher in the classical riding seat. I ride every day and she's a good teacher. She has a tongue ring, wears a lot of pink, has a heart and star tattoo, and loves the beach and boys. I like her - she is a constant source of entertainment.

...Marie
The typical WOOFer. She is also younger, studies agriculture in university in her hometown of Brussels, speaks 4 languages and has spent a year volunteering in Central America. We get along really well. She is down to earth and interesting. We speak in French, which is great for me, and we have become quite close very quickly. I'm very glad she's there with me. She makes it a lot more fun.

...Gemma
Is Dutch but fell in love with Lusitano horses years ago and has no plans to return to the Netherlands. She is a strong woman and I admire her independence and determination. She is also, unfortunately, very difficult to work for and be around. I am still trying to figure out how to be there and feel peace with her, but it's become a little bit hard. Nonetheless, I am enjoying the work.

...The Work
Is great. I do a lot of different things and have learned a great deal. We work from 7am-2pm which is a very healthy schedule. It's above 30º by 11am or so, so starting early is ideal. I muck out stalls, feed the horses, groom them and do cleaning. We also clean the insides of the houses and do yard work and are painting some things this week. Part of the work is also riding the horses to train them. I enjoy this part a lot! I used to think that the question as to whether or not I know how to ride a horse translated to whether or not I was afraid of riding, or whether or not I would fall off. So I would say that yes, I could ride. Turns out, there's a whole sport to it, and I am learning from square one. I love it, though. It's a full body work out and it makes me more comfortable with the horses.

...The Play
On our free time, we usually get into bikinis right away and lie in the sun. I read and write and chat with the girls. Sometimes we have outings to the beach or the shopping centre. Tomorrow we have a boat ride! On Wednesday is my day off and I'll go to Lisbon.

And that's all I have time for today! Hope you're all well.

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 119: Doctor's Orders

nerd blog post #130



I wish I had all the time in the world to nerd blog about the trip to Leamington and Birmingham, but I am on a library compy and will have to be brief...



The Royal Leamington Spa is a wonderful little town and Doctor proved to be, once again, the perfect host. I was there for four nights and could have stayed forever... We ate well (piri-piri and roly polys and micmics - all faves!) and drank well and saw the highlights of the town. We also went to the park twice and enjoyed the last of Britain's summer. Doctor has a nice set of friends from his program there and we saw them quite a bit. We went to a part at Bec's, to a local pub, and to a club that was having a silent disco. I had never been to one before, but you get a set of headphones at the door and have a choice between two channels of fun songs. Very fun. You can also control the volume level or turn them off if you want to talk to your friend. I had one of the best nights in a long time that night and danced my face off. Another fun thing we did was visit Doctor's gym, which is like a night club. Fancy lighting, smooth music and great deco, this place makes you feel more like you're hanging with celebs than exercising. I loved it. But, as always, the highlight was being with my pal. We talk and talk and never tire of each other. I was in need of good company and Doc is the best at being a friend. So I was grateful for such a nice visit. To read more deets, head to his blog: doctorwithoutborders.blogspot.com. He has a better synopsis of our time!



On Sunday, we headed to Birmingham together. USheila and UDoug met us at the train station and we checked out an arts festival downtown before heading to their place for a most delicious lamb dindins! Doc had a sleepy ovary there and we had a leisurely morning eating breakie and drinking cafe before going to the city centre to buy half boot. It was sad saying goodbye to Doctor. I was nervous about leaving for Portugal and this time apart will be longer than usual, so it was sad.



It was so nice being with US and UD again. They remind me of my parents, so it's nice spending time with them. I am always grateful for their hospitality, and for Claire's comfy bed!



Yesterday, I had a very long travel day, including 4 buses, 1 metro, 1 train and a flight. Twelve hours in total before I was on the farm. There is a lot to report, but my time is running out, so I'll just make a list of some key things:



1. There is a horse named Piri-piri. He's a mini-Shetland stallion, so comes up to my waist. He's SO funny and small!

2. There are three other stallions, all Lusitano. And six mares and a foal.

3. There are two other woofers, Gemma (g pronounced like gum) and myself. All girls, all nice. Gemma is actually Dutch and speaks to me in Dutch. One of the other girls is Dutch too and the third is from Belgian. She speaks Dutch as well but her mother tongue is French so we speak in French. Quite the mix!

4. We work from 7am-2pm and then have the day off until feeding at 8pm.

5. No electricity! No fridge, no bathroom light, spooky halloween nighttime!

6. Today I brushed the horses and cleaned their hooves and cleaned their poop and prepped some wood for painting. And some other things I forget.

7. At 2pm I put on my bikini and read in the sun. This will be a daily activity, I am sure of that!



That's all for now... I think I'll enjoy the month. There's a lot I can learn and the work felt good and the people are nice. I'll learn to ride properly, which is cool. I hope this finds you all well!



Much love,

Hincks.



PS - I don't know how often I'll be online, but I am guessing about twice a week or so. Sorry if I am slower than normal to write back, but Piri-piri is counting on me. In case of emergency, call my cellie. It's off mostly (because I can't charge it at the farm) but I will turn it on at least once a day. The number is the same: 33 6 32 01 23 16.

Chapter 118: Dedicated to RtC

nerd blog post #130

I am in the Royal Leamington Spa! It is wonderful to be in such a nice apartment, enjoying time with Doctor. But this nerd blog post is about London, so I'll discuss the Spa latron....

I returned to London on Saturday night and took the metro to meet Raffi and his uncle at a pub near the Globe. We had a pint and it was nice to see U. Greg again. When he left, Raff and I headed to another pub and then home.

He had Sunday off and it was nice to spend the whole day together in London. We had planned to visit a couple of markets and then Rose Bakery London-stylez, but all were closed by the time we got there late afternoon! So instead, we walked and walked. We spent time in Green Park where Raffi practiced his clown juggling and we also went to Tower Bridge and that area. For dinner, we went to the same Chinese place from a few nights prior where a delicious and massive meal is under 6 pounds.

Monday was the day of his show and while he rehearsed in the morning, I met Doc at London Bridge and our first stop was to pick up his big suitcase which was being stored at church. His friend is the rector there and it was in the vestry. We got the special, secret code so he could get it later instead of lugging it around. So then we went for coffee and sat there chatting so long that lunchtime crept up and we ate there.

At 130pm, we met Talia and Alex at the Globe and got our free tickets to the show. We stood in the pit thing, right up by the stage and under the sky. It was magical being there. Not only is the space beautiful, but it's also so historic. And to see Raffi on stage gave me such pride. The whole show was really great. They had music and singing and the monologues were top-notch. Raffi's stage presence is captivating and his movement training at clown school shone through. I am so glad I saw it and it was great to have friends there to share the experience with. After the show, we ate delicious cake and drank cafe in the Globe's fancy restaurant. Then we all attended to business and so split up for a few hours. When we reconnected (just Tal, Alex, Doc and I), we went for Chinese (yup, same place!) and then met Raffi and the other actors at a pub. It was an amazing day and evening - one of the most memorable in a long time.

Tuesday was also a wonderful day. Raffi and I spent the afternoon at Camden Market, which no one told me about before! It is a jewel in the city and maybe the world. I looooved it. Stalls upon stalls of amazing and affordable cool things. I can't really explain how much I loved this neighbourhood, but I will never visit London again without paying a visit to this place. We had lunch there and then walked along the river for a long time, accompanied by a very nice swan that we named and talked to. We also visited Regent's Park but the zoo was closed and I didn't spot any animals from the fence.. Instead, we walked until the sun went down and then had a really nice fancy dindins at a buffet Thai veggie restaurant. It was nice.

The hours to follow, and the next morning, were very hard. I had debated not nerd blogging about this, but it feels strange to not include that Raffi and I decided to say a final goodbye on Wednesday, as he headed off to LA and then back to Paris, and I continued my travels. It's a more complex and personal story than I can write about right now. I do hope that he has a wonderful visit with his family and a successful year 2 of clown school. Writing of our adventures in The Hinckster will be missed, and I award 503 points to the man who made my time in France as beautiful as it was, and made Paris the city that I fell in love with over and over again. His companionship was one of a kind, and cherished deeply.

After the goodbye, I made my way to the train station and came as quickly as possible to a most supportive Doctor. I knew he'd have the right prescription! He met me with a bouquet of flowers (the first in years!) and we came back to his apartment, chatting and laughing the whole way.

More on this land soon... I hope this finds you all well!

Much love,

Hincks.

Chapter 117: Treats and Suites

nerd blog post #128

After an uncomplicated voyage from France, I arrived in England. I must say that this time, the travelling was much easier. I moved four times in France, so not only do I travel relatively lightly, but I have mastered the art of packing and carrying luggage. This being said, I have also decided that charity is necessary so I don't get too worn out. And so, when at the bottom of a large metro staircase, I wait until Prince/Princess Charming offers a hand. I just stand there, suitcases on the ground, looking up, and wait. It usually takes less than 30 seconds. The philanthropist stops, offers a hand, I act slightly surprised and accept, giving the heavier of the suitcases if the helper seems strong, and the lighter one if it's a woman or a wimpy man. And like that, I make it to my destination without any stress, pain or frustration.

I spent two nights in London, which was great. Because one of the fellows from the Globe was denied entry into the UK, there was an extra room in the hotel. Raffi spoke to the people in charge and they switched the name for me! So I had my own room with free soap and coffee and a special card to have buffet breakies! What a treat.

Another treat I had were Marmite crisps. I saw them in the store and bought them, the first bag of chips I have bought in a long, long time. But the combo of Marmite and chips seemed too delicious to ignore. They were delicious. I smelled like Marmite for the rest of the day, but didn't care because the treat was so good.

The biggest treat, though, was probably seeing Sister Act in the West End. Raffi did his undergrad training with the woman who played the lead, and she got us great tickets. We sat in the Royal Circle, front and centre! The best seats in the house. His friend, Patina, is the first to play Whoopi's character in this new musical that just opened in June. So she is famous now, her poster on buses and buildings, and it was cool to meet her after and have seen her in the show. It was a fun time. Musicals aren't my fave genre, but I love this movie and it was quite the spectacle to see!

On Thursday, I took an incredibly comfy coach bus to Birminghamandcheese to see Uncle Doug and Aunt Sheila. It has been a great visit. I love coming here - it's relaxing and we can talk about Canada and there are always treats around. Yesterday, I met AS downtown for lunch and then we window shopped in a few stores and then checked out a really neat market. We bought some fruits and veg and then browsed a bookstore before meeting UD and coming home. We had delicious take-away fish and chips for dindins and then AS's sister and family (from Feckinham Palace) came for a visit. It was nice to see them, though it feels as though it was just last week I was at their place in the country! The time has flown, and it continues to surprise me... Today, UD and I are going to the main street to look for half boot and something he needs, and then AS and I are going to a Garden Show to see the biggest carrots in the land! I head back to London tonight.

My vacay has started off well. I miss Paris, but it's nice to be with people here who know me and to relax a little bit. It's rainy and cool here, but I don't mind being inside before I head to the farm, where the temperatures are soaring in the 30s these days! Hope this finds you well.

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 116: Farewell to France

nerd blog post #125

It has been exactly one year since I arrived in France, and I leave tonight. I can't believe it's gone by so quickly and that I'm actually leaving. I have no idea when I'll be back or if I'll ever spend so long here again, and it's a sad goodbye I'm saying to a place I really love.

The last few days here were hectic, but very good. I worked a lot at Rose Bakery and the pub, and enjoyed the busy lifestyle of hopping from one to the other, utterly exhausted but happy for the work.

My last shift at the pub was Saturday night, and I was so surprised that most of the staff came by to wish me well. They bought me shots and Taylor gave me a big bag of baked goods - cookies, brownies, banana bread.. I didn't know what to even do with it all so I've been sharing! It was amazing to have them all there, and it wasn't really until then that I felt as though I had made a wee mark at that place and was appreciated. The owner also came down and thanked me for my time and gave me a small cash bonus. He said there will always be a job for me there. It was nice to hear. So the last shift was a bit of a sad one.

Sunday I worked the last shift at Rose Bakery. As I'd only been there for six shifts, there was obviously no party for me. But it was still good, and I got Gel a job there so she worked her first shift. It was fun working with her.

On Sunday night I went out with Gel and her roomies. They are such nice French peeps and it has been a pleasure getting to spend time with them this Summer. One of them is moving to Montreal in January and will come and visit Toronto in February, which is great. We went to a mojito bar in Montmartre and I had the best mojitos I've ever had! The couple who owns the place are super nice and from Madagascar, and I wish I'd been there before. I said a sad goodbye to the roommates at the end of the night.

Yesterday, I went to the Musee d'Orsay since I hadn't yet been. I also did some packing and cleaning and getting ready. I felt pretty bummed out all day. I will miss this city a lot. It's different than when I left Toronto because there was no doubt in my mind that I'd be there again, and live there again. But I might never live in Paris again, and it will never be like it was for me this year.

I went to the pub around 9pm to meet Gel. When I arrived, there was a whole slew of friends there to surprise me on my last night. I was shocked! I had chicken wings and beer and a really great time. I will miss more than just the clowns. I have a great group of people at the pub and beyond that were so great to me this Summer, and were ready to send me off with all of their best wishes. I said goodbyes and rode bikes home with Gel.

Today, I move out of my room and then will have the afternoon to do last minute things. I'll also meet Gel and Taylor for a coffee and say goodbye to them. A friend of Raffi and Viktor's who works at the bakery offered to help me with my bags. Remembering the struggles of a year ago, and knowing Raffi can't meet me in London, I accepted. So I'll leave the same way I came, from the Paris Gare du Nord station to London St Pancras.

What a year it has been! I don't really have the perspective to write anything thoughtful. All I know is that I'm very sorry to leave and will miss so much about this land.

With love,
Hincks.

Three Hundred and Sixty Five Days

That is how long I have been away. Yes, it was one year ago today that I had a whirlwind of a day, filled with more emotions than a high school theatre production. I have been thinking of this anniversary as it has crept up. It's a strange feeling. I had guesses as to where I'd be now and what I'd be up to, but life has a wonderful way of being full of surprises, and none of my assumptions were right!

I'm not quite sure what to write in this nerd blog non-chapter. I feel as though a year holds significance, but I'm not sure in what ways it can be explained or how I feel about it. I have certainly learned a lot in a year. I have learned about a culture, a language, travelling, love, teaching, being alone. And that last one is important because so much of what I do and have to figure out is by myself. I remember that when I left Quebec, the most important thing I had learned was how to be by myself, and be okay with that. Here in France, I experienced that again - starting anew, making friends, feeling far from the familiar.

Some things don't get easier with time. I still get homesick and miss people and am sad when correspondence dwindles. I've made France my home, but it isn't where I'm from and I won't stay here, so people forgetting is very hard. But I have gotten used to being far from what's most important, and being comfortable with that distance. I have gotten used to it to the point that I could live away for many more years, and I finally understand how my parents were able to live away from Canada for so long. It just becomes normal.

Through the lonelier moments and seemingly impossible predicaments, I never had regrets about coming. I have seen some incredible things and met people who have changed my life and how I see the world.

The highlights that stand out were the visitors who came from Canada, Cynthia and Merrill in Rennes, Raffi and Viktor in Paris, and the steadfast Doctor who has been a rock through it all.

So here's to a year, and a promise to return before the next anniversary!

With love,
Hincks.

Chapter 115: The Rose Bakery Master of Disaster

nerd blog post #136

I ended up working a monster shift on Sunday. I was asked to stay until close, which was 3am, so worked a whopping eleven hours. While at L'Arche, my days were longer, but it was such a different atmosphere than a bar. At the bar, I get to sit for my fifteen minute meal, which is rarely that long, and otherwise am on my feet, running around, carrying trays, and usually quite busy. Luckily, the owner is very chill and so are the people I work with. We get coffee and juices and pop for free while on shift, as well as a meal. In 11 hours, one meal is burned off very quickly, so I rely on the juice to keep my energy up! We also can drink on shift, and I sometimes have an iced espresso with Baileys when I start feeling sleepy around 11pm. We are not supposed to refuse shots from patrons who want to buy them for us. Usually, these are men at the bar who are lonely and don't want to drink alone... I don't mind doing one, but have found tricks so as not to do too many. Coke looks like Jagermeister and apple juice looks like whiskey and water looks like anything else. It works like a charm and keeps everyone happy.

While working Sunday night, I had one of the best tables I've ever had. Parisian customers are notorious for being kind of rude, but these four were an exception. They were so nice and friendly and warm. We chatted a lot throughout the evening and made plans to hang out next Sunday night. I gave one of the girls my phone number in case they want to hang before then, and heard yesterday that they're going out on Thursday and would like me to join. That was great news for me! It made me wish I was staying longer to develop more friendships, but Gemma is waiting!

Yesterday, I met Gel in the afternoon for a coffee. We sat and chatted for a long time and then it began to thunderstorm. Hungry, we stopped at the grocery store and then she came over and I made piri-piri chicken and cous-cous with zucchini. It was a good dindins and was accompanied by red wine. We then went to the Amelie Poulin bar in Montmartre and met her roomies and their friends who were visiting. They are a nice group of French people and very welcoming. We stayed there for a bit and then walked to the wine bar. I came home at around midnight as I started working at Rose Bakery today and didn't want to be too tired.

And so today I started working at Rose Bakery. I have written about this place a lot - it's the place Raffi and Viktor work. It's kind of a bakery, but more of a restaurant. It's owned by Rose (British) and her French husband, Jean-Charles. I was hired by the manager, Honza, who is just a bit older than I. Anyways, it sells organic, veggie type food at high prices. While the staff is mostly English speaking (and very international), the clientele is mostly French. The day started out as a disaster. Honza was working at the other location, so Jean-Charles was in charge. I arrived punctually and waited until JC had a second, and said, "Hi! I'm Emily! I'm here to work today!" JC is kind of a mean man, and he said, "So work." I found the aprons and asked one of the servers where I should start. Without any explanations at all, she said I was on drinks. I had to make two teas and a complicated juice (with a juice press I had never seen and didn't know how to use). I did the tea wrong (but didn't know it) and then proceded to the juice maker. I tried my best to figure it out, smashing the carrots and ginger into the container. But when I put the apples in, something went wrong. The machine kind of exploded and smelt like burning! Jumping back, I knocked over a glass that shattered ALL over the floor, and under a table full of customers. I let out a yelp. I then heard stomping and swearing in French and JC yelled at me for "breaking" the machine (it was fine) and the glass (it was not so fine). I was promptly taken off drinks duty and told to set tables and take orders and deliver food. So I'm a server? Yeah, thanks. That's what I was hired for because that's what I know how to do. Soooo the first five minutes were an utter disaster. The restaurant was packed and with a line up for tables, so I moved quickly and did well for the rest of the day. Near the end, JC sat me down and offered me a coffee and we chatted a bit. He really likes Raffi, and asked after him, and said it was nice to have me. He also apologized for yelling and said it wasn't my fault, that I shouldn't have been put on drinks when I didn't know how to make them. Duh. But now JC and I are pals, I think. At the end of the shift, I got to sit down and enjoy as much of that ultra-healthy and delicious food as I wanted. It was well-worth it and I look forward to tomorrow. It's also nice knowing most of the staff from visiting the boys, and not having to learn new names as well as everything else. After all, I'm only working there for a week.

I have a busy week. As well as moving in one week and preparing for that, I'm working 30 hours at the bakery and 20 or so at the bar. Feels like the busy life I had in Toronto, and craved all year! So I'm happy.

Hope this finds you all well!

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 114: Lazy Sunday

nerd blog post # 125

Gel through a dinner party on Friday night. It was really fun. Her roomie had three friends there and they were all lively and nice and it made me think of the Rennes parties at Merrill's. We had a delicious feasts - lots of appys of cheese and breads, duck for dindins, and plenty of wine. It was a really nice evening. I ended up having a sleepy ovary with Gel.

On Saturday, Gel and I went to an antique market in our neighbourhood that's just here for the week-end. My fave part about these markets are the postcards they sell from early last century. The stamps are still on there and you can read the message, and the front is not too different from the postcards I send from Paris now. Pretty cool. Then we found a really neat cafe and had one. I really like this neighbourhood - I keep finding new nooks and things to do. I think I would be happy in this hood for a long time. It's central, but not touristy.

I worked last night and it was a long one. I didn't get home until after 5am. It's strange now that I only have four shifts left there. I leave Paris in nine days and it feels pretty sad and very weird. I start at Rose Bakery on Tuesday and work five shifts before leaving. Paris feels like home now, so it will be tough to move on.

The relationship between my roomie and I seems to be improving, which is positive. I hadn't written about it, but he didn't really talk to me. It was strange. I've never lived with someone who had no interest in any kind of a relationship at all before this guy. He wouldn't come out of his room until my bedroom door was shut and when we were in the same room, he wouldn't talk. I only saw him every few days, by chance, if we were leaving or coming at the same time. It was very strange... But yesterday we were both in the kitchen and I offered to make him a breakie feast and he accepted and sat in the kitchen while I cooked and we chatted. I was really happy about that. I think he'd like the piri-piri chicken so maybe we can have a dinner before I go.

Today isn't really a lazy Sunday, I just slept until noon after the late night. I was asked to work today and train a new girl and my shift was extended so I'm working from 3pm to midnight. I'm very happy to be working.

And that's the bews of the day! Hope this finds you all well.

Signing off,
Hincks.

Chapter 113: London and Eye

nerd blog post #123

I got back to Paris last night after a great little vacay to London. It was relaxing and fun and I'm glad I went.

I arrived Sunday morning and Raffi met me at the train station with a sign (I love signs. They help you get where you need to go and also welcome you to new places.) and we headed to his place on the South bank to drop off my stuff. Then, we went to Surrey County to a little townette called Chesney or something to his uncle's house. His uncle is from Lebanon as well but has lived in England for 30 years. He's a very nice old man and threw a deluxe BBQ. There were chips and lots of meat and ice-cream and all the things I like most! His partner was there, as well as his son (Raffi's cousin), his wife and their two little kids. The baby was only seven months and I got to hold her for hours.. It was great. There was also a dog named Blue and I liked the dog a lot. So basically, beer, BBQ, treats, baby, dog and sun. It was a wonderful afternoon and evening.

The next day, I walked around a lot. I went to St Paul's Cathedral and walked up and down Fleet Street and had a coffee and read my book. (Side note: I have read many good books this Summer. Right now it's a recommendation from Marni called What is the What by Dave Eggers. A memoir about a Sudanese refugee living in the States. Excellent.) Raffi and I had a picnic lunch on his break at the Globe. I got to wear a Visitor name tag and had a great tour of the Globe, its green room, the offices... It's a really cool theatre and must be an incredibly nice place to work. In the afternoon, I went to the Tate Museum. I liked its content better than the Pompidou and the way it's arranged is really accessible. My fave London museum to date. Also a bonus that it's free! In the evening, Raffi and I went to a local pub for beer. We were joined later by one of the fellows from Australia - a really nice guy.

Actually, I met everyone in the fellowship and a few of the people who work there and they are all really nice. There are nine in his program who have been invited from all areas - one from South Africa, two from Australia, two from New Zealand, two from the States and two from Canada. The Canadians were sent from Soulpepper and both were pleased to know I'm friends with Murph! Shout out SoulPeppz!

On Tuesday, I met Doctor at his train station in the morning. It was great to see him and spend a day together in London - the first time! We walked down Baker Street and Oxford Street doing some window shopping in the fancy and less fancy stores. Then we went to a park and ate a micmic and lay in the sun for awhile. Eventually, we continued wandering and ended up near the Globe where we sat on a patio and enjoyed a couple of pints as the sun set behind the buildings. As always, the day went by far too quickly... We talked about our friends back home, life in Europe, and tentative plans for the future. I was glad I'll be seeing him in two weeks, otherwise one day would have been too short! At 7pm, we met Raffi and the three of us went out for a really nice Indian dinner in the neighbourhood. It was fun and delicious. Raff and I said goodbye to Doctor and then went on a long walk. We saw the London Eye (and also saw that we couldn't afford a ride...) and crossed the bridge to see the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. I must have walked 10kms that day and was utterly exhausted by the time it was over!

So yesterday I slept most of the morning, had a micmic lunch with Raffiki, and read a whole book. Doctor lent me one called Less Than Zero, which is by the American Psycho guy, and I spent the afternoon at the river reading. It was a good book. A bit depressing, but impossible to put down. At 7pm, I caught the train back to Paris. Pulling in, I put my sweater on, but quickly realized it was hotter at midnight here than it has been at any peak daytime. We're in a heat wave and it is sizzling hot!

This afternoon, I'm going to a carnival with Gel and Taylor and then I work tonight. Soon I'll be very busy as I've taken another job for these last couple of weeks at Rose Bakery as a waitress! Should be fun, and an extra bit of cash before I have no more money rolling in starting September. Rose Bakery work should start on Saturday.

I hope you're all doing well! I'm thinking of home a lot these days as the entire Hincks family is together in Toronto.

Much love,
Hincks.

Chapter 112: Nachos

nerd blog post #121

I work with an Argentine valley girl who is always full of questions. The other day she asked me what I think is the best thing about life. This may seem like a crazy, unanswerable question that is to vague to even deserve a response. But as someone who loves asking questions, I always answer them. And my answer is easy. Community. People are the most important thing to me, and if I'm not surrounded by them, I'm not happy. Her answer was nachos and she admitted she hadn't put a lot of thought into it. I think nachos are one of the best things, but for me, sharing a plate of nachos will always taste better than devouring one alone. So I stuck to my answer.

There is a point. And the point is that the early part of the week was pretty lonely without my clowns and with only a couple of friends in the city (who have their own lives and aren't always free when I want to hang). Paris is a beautiful city and I will always enjoy it, but roaming around alone just isn't the same...

Luckily, on Wednesday, everything turned around. I have had the best half week and I am so glad things are looking way up. It started with a surprise visit from Marni on Wednesday. Marni is a good friend from Queen's who I did a lot of acting with and she is part of the sketch comedy group I was in before I left. She arrived in the morning and we spent the whole day together, talking and walking around. We had a pint on the patio of my pub in the afternoon, made dinner together, went to the wine bar and had a sleepy ovary. I was so glad for the company and it was nice to catch up. I have always really loved Marni, but we weren't in close touch this year, so it was awesome to have her for one on one time for so many hours.

The next evening, I had plans with Gel. She invited me over for some wine and her French roomie, Vincent, joined us. Gel's French is still weak, but she's taking courses and trying to learn. Because of this, the conversation was very mixed in the two languages, with Gel speaking English, Vincent speaking English to her, Vincent and I speaking French to each other and a lot of translations going on throughout. I really like that kind of scene. I like translating and switching back and forth between languages. It means I don't miss out on the convo! We headed out to the wine bar eventually and ate one of their delicious cheese platters. They live only a ten minute walk away so it's easy to get home, even if the metro's closed. Though I prefer not to walk alone at night (obv), this neighbourhood is a safe and lively one, and I like that there are always a lot of people out and about.

I woke up with a fat bottom lip. It was more than twice the size and made my upper lip entirely invisible in comparison. I must have been bitten in the night. I looked crazy, but after icing it with frozen spinach (the only thing I could find), it eventually went down. It was weirdo, though.

Yesterday afternoon, Gel and I met in the early afternoon and headed down to Paris Plages. This is a long section of road next to the Seine that the city converts into beaches every Summer. There are many genres of "beach" including the wooden "beach" and the grass "beach." There is also some sand, lots of mist sprays, a work-out centre, children's play areas and much more. It's always packed with tourists and locals and a fun place to hang. After that, I took her to the Canadian bookstore and introduced her to Brian. We each bought a book and will switch when we've finished.

I also bought a German dictionary. Steve is coming back to Europe this fall and we'll be living in Berlin for the month of November. I have started looking into apartments and contacting the people I know there for advice. We'll be there for the 20th anniversary of the fall of the wall, which I'm sure will be a cool experience. I am looking forward to practicing my German and letting people know that I do, in fact, have freckles.

I worked last night and when I arrived, I was scheduled to close. This was a change from before, and I figured they probably wanted to train me on closing duties. This is very nice, but I'm leaving in just under three weeks, so I thought it was time to put in my notice so they didn't train me unnecessarily. I hate confrontation. Things like quitting make me very nervous and I usually delay until the last minute. But the owner walked in and it was the perfect time. I explained my VISA situation and told him I'd only be here until the end of the month. He said he was disappointed, but understood. They were looking to make me a senior staff with both opening and closing responsibilities and five to six shifts a week starting in September. Sorries, but I have Gemma and some horsies awaiting me and must go! Still, I was trained for closing so I can have the extra hours for the rest of the month. It went well and I'm glad that's out of the way.

The shift was great. I was working with Taylor and her and I are becoming better friends. We worked until 4am and then some girls we had met that night wanted to go out. So we did. I was pretty tired, but happy for a party, so stayed out until one of the first metros of the morning and got home as the sun was rising out of my window. It felt more like Toronto/Kingston times than ever. I loved it.

I have plans to meet Taylor this afternoon for a walk in the sun. I bought a watermelon to share. I work tonight again with both Gel and Taylor, which will be fun.

I found cheap tickets the other day to London and leave in the morning for three nights. It will be good to see Raffi and what he's up to there. And Doctor will make a day trip to London to hang! I'm very excited to see those boys.

But thankfully, I'll also be happy to come back. I feel as though I finally have my own group of friends here who want to hang out and enjoy the city. It will make leaving at the end of the month a little sad, but that's always the best way to leave a place. I wish I could renew my VISA and stay at the pub, but I know deep down that that's not the way I want to chart my path right now, and that I need to continue into the arms of Gemma and her stallions.

I hope you all have a good week-end!

Much love,
Hincks.