May 17th

Two weeks in England isn't much considering i spend two years a time away from it. Apart from family who i spent most of my time with, friends met in various pubs and houses, and families visited - i managed to squeeze some culture in as well.

As for nottingham...

I trapsed around the city with Jake, probably one of my oldest friends. Caught sight of the castle, the streets,  and tasted the tea.

I spent an afternoon at the Forest Stadium watching my youngest cousin James play in a tournament, and learning that Nottingham holds more history than i thought when it comes to football clubs.

I got to spend a night out on the town with my cousins. This was a first for me as I've never been of age when i've been home before. Nottingham night life is a vibrant pub and bar scene.

I took a day trip to York. I went with my grandma for the day, and felt as if i was back in the center of Europe. I walked the city walls looking down on the city locked within, I saw the excessive cathedral, wandered through the Shambles - a row of traditional houses that throw you back into the past, and spent a while in the york castle museum.

I went to Alton Towers for the day with Chris, my eldest cousin. We rode in the front seat of every ride. Stuffed our faces with jacket potatoes, and had an overall great day.

I took another day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, this time alone. I'd never been here before so it was interesting to see Shakespeare's life unfold througout the city. It was full of thatched roofs and had plenty to explore.

It's funny how much i haven't seen in a place i living in for 11 years. But the pub culture, the love of the game, the friendly community - that'll always be the same, & i'm glad.


Come on, England!