In Which I Succumb to Freshers Flu

Ok, more of a cold than the full-out flu, but my throat feels scratchy enough. Everyone here has warned us newbies about "Freshers Flu", a diabolical virus that strikes down 1st year university students during their first month or so of school. Even speaking to my dear British friend Beth back at IUP, she remarked "*Shudder* I hate freshers - they bring the flu". It really isn't fair, considering I'm in my third year and I haven't even taken place in the marathon clubbing and drinking that makes up Freshers Week. *Sigh*

Although I am now dependent on my Kleenex box and mug of tea, this past week has been fairly enjoyable. Last Friday my flatmates Ces, Laura, and I went to see The Lion King, as our student discount got as 53 pound tickets for 20. The show was really great, especially the costumes that the musical won so many awards for. It was also nice go out and experience a bit of the theater culture of London. I think our next target will be to see Wicked, and (if I have my way) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

On Saturday my flatmate Ces and I spent the early afternoon at the British Museum, exploring the Egyptians, Assyrians, and various other cultures that liked to morph animals with humans. After expanding our cultural horizons we spent three hours on Oxford street expanding our fashion horizons. Shopping on Oxford street is akin to going to battle: one must be outfitted in the proper armor (fashionable, but comfortable - this is serious shopping here folks), portray an aggressive stance (it's either run people over or be run over yourself), and display an impressive amount of stamina and endurance (of the silent and stoic variety especially - lines for dressing rooms can be soooo long). In the end, our purpose for shopping (find me an outfit for the Ministry of Sound party), was satisfied after 5 minutes in Ces's closet back at the apartment. After we discovered we're the same size in both cloths and shoes I believe she exclaimed "Oh good, now I have a doll to dress up!" As her wardrobe is much more fashionable than mine, I won't complain :D

Monday night was the Ministry of Sound (a club in London famous for its DJs and music) Freshers Party. A good time was had by all, even if it was a little on the crowded side. Nightlife here in London is considered by some to be the best in the world, but you have to be willing to pay for it as well. For those of us on a stricter budget, I think we'll just head to the pub this weekend...

As for this week, well, I've been holed up with this cold. London has decided to turn rainy on us, so motivation to go out and explore has been very little. This weekend the sun is due out again, with a high of 70! Until then, I will continue on conquering my reading lists (or at least finish one book).