Anyways, I really do love to fly! For those of you who know that I can't handle most child amusement park rides would be surprised to know that I love take off and landing. I flew from MSP straight to Amsterdam, which was an 8 hour flight. During which, I watched Thor, Snow White and the Huntsmen, half of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and half of Pride and Prejudice. So, I was feeling very accomplished and time flew by. I must say that the AMS airport is HUGE. (*Kari make sure to have PLENTY of layover time, it can be quite overwhelming to switch flights) Seeings we arrived at 7am, I didn't see much of the Netherlands, only the lights of the night. However, as we took off on our next flight to Newcastle, England, I watched the most gorgeous sunrise as we pulled through the clouds which hid the sunshine from the city below. That flight only lasted an hour. Then, once at the airport, I got my first of many passport stamps, and off we were to load onto a bus for an hour long drive north up to Alnwick, England. The scenery was breathtaking. There are many similarities between our Minnesota landscape and England's, but there are many differences as well. Everything is so green, the trees didn't have leaves but they were coated with moist moss or ivy. I love green! The dynamic rolling hills is gorgeous as well as all the old greenish stone buildings in the countryside.Well, overall, its pretty difficult for me to explain, maybe you should just come see it for yourselves:)
My first glimpse of the castle is indescribable. This won't come close, but picture a breathtaking valley filled with meadows, pastures, and forests with a small river slowly winding through the hillside. Nestled in the rolling landscape stands an ancient majestic castle branding a weathered look which could only be achieved by defying the elements of the earth for over 900 years. Gargoyles are poised on of the walls surrounding it, forming a protective perimeter around the castles borders. A soft rain seems to hang in the air enhancing the ethereal mood. Even the best photographers or painters could never do it justice. Its incredible.
A little bit on the family who lives in the Alnwick Castle. They are the Duke and Duchess of Northumbria. They manage their extensive estate and castle which was inherited down through the Percy family for 700 years. They live in the inner keep of the castle during the winter and early spring months when the castle is closed to the public. For the rest of the six months of the year, some 300,000 Harry Potter crazed tourist raid the grounds. It is a very unique, and honoring experience to be living in such close proximity of such important people with their royal guests. Next week, I believe they are holding a large hunt with other important nobles on a special 8 by 8 mile plot of land. (During the time that the castle goes public and His Grace, the Duke and his family move out, my classmates and I will be able to explore that special 8 by 8 mile parcel of land, which is a privilege. Especially since Alnwick locals aren't even allowed in. Also, we will have access to more of the castle and grounds.)
Alrighty, my turn. I live in Lion's tower. I have a lovely view of scaffolding out my window, because of repair work, but that is okay the view beyond the metal contraption is quite lovely. Apparently this place is haunted, I wasn't surprised, most everything this old is. Anyways, back to the main subject, I don't even need to walk out doors because the classes I am taking are in the castle as well! But, we can't roll out of bed and go to class, cause no slippers or sweats are allowed at all. The Brits dress up a lot more than we do on a day to day bases This doesn't bother me at all. Breakfast is served at 8 in a old dining hall with beautiful stone vaulted ceilings. We are served at the castle restaurant for dinner and supper. It is a gorgeous place to dine and the staff are most friendly. (Quite themed as well, the rafters have swords barred to the ceilings and there is a large knights of armor in one of the corners.) We sit at a single long row of wooden tables. So far the food has been delicious. And coffee and tea are served with every meal:) Loving that! Of course, we don't get to dine there when the Duke and his friends are using it, but that isn't too often. St. Cloud State leases quite a large area of the castle, which the Duke so graciously allows. So, we have plenty of rooms to roam.
Much of this weekend will be orientation on the rules, there are many more than normal because the Duke and his family are home at the moment, so we really have to be careful to respect their space. But, I am looking forward to starting my classes and meeting my homestay family next week. Well, that's probably enough, I am quite tired and in great need of a good shower. Good night!
WOW!! Everything sounds soo amazing!!! I can just imagine how much you are enjoying it all! Can't wait to come see the castle for myself! :) -Kari
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