Birthday

So it's been a week and a half since I turned 21! I had been meaning to post sooner, alas, my Berlin post was still looming. Putting off things I (kind of) enjoy = procrastination at its finest. I had a lovely day—and I hadn't been expecting much. The weather was surprisingly pleasant (as the entire time I've been back from Spring break—aside from the first two days—has been November cold). I went to brunch with my ladies Miranda and Hannah, at my favorite diner here (Andrew's!). 

Flowers from Hannah

I spent the afternoon running a few errands, walking around, and sipping coffee. 

For dinner, we went to an organic restaurant called The Duke of Cambridge which also has an adjoined pub area.   

Miranda and I walking to the restaurant

Hannah and I outside the restaurant

The food was delish, I wish I could afford to frequent the place! Hopefully I'll go there at least once more before I leave. Leila joined us after dinner for a bit, and eventually Miranda, Hannah and I returned for cupcakes!

Birthday cupcake!

Overall, my birthday was a good reminder of what I have gained from this year abroad. Most importantly, it has brought me close to some wonderful people I would have never met otherwise, and I am very thankful for all their efforts on my bday!

This past week I went to a She & Him show, as well as a Jose Gonzalez show! Both were really great. 

Zooey Deschanel of She & Him

My friend Sean from Tulane is also staying with me for a while. Here we are before an unsuccessful night out. Damn you London nightlife.

Miranda and I outside at Cargo (bar/club/venue)

I should note that I have been done with finals since May 12th! It's such a relief to have them over with, and I'm pretty sure I did alright on both. I am a little bit stunned by the fact that I have so little time left in London (three weeks and two days), and for about half of that time I will be entertaining guests. I am already feeling nostalgia for London. It's going to be really weird parting with it. 

For the rest of the time I am in London I will also be volunteering at Coram's Fields (a children's park/center) doing some minor gardening. I don't have a set schedule or anything, so I am hoping I will have the willpower to go at least a few times a week. 

I am actually in Brussels right now, heading back to London tomorrow, so expect a post on that soon!