Alive and Kicking- just dirty

HI!

I am in London and I am quite proud of myself for several reasons:

1. I am alive. I am on my own right now, so I know that many of you were worried.This may be a simple victory, but without it all others would not matter.

2. I arranged for my lost luggage to meet me at Nial and Maeve's tomorrow evening. Last night we had to switch planes due to brake issues. The delay was about 3 hours, but I am was able to watch a good chick flick during the wait. However, my suitcase apparently missed the memo about the change in planes and did not wheel over to the new plane. Air Canada was helpful in sorting through the confusion and my bag will be deliver tomorrow. Until then I have gotten mini bits to tied me over. I can assure you I will be happy to wear a different outfit after 3 days in this one.

3. I navigated the Underground/tube on my own and I did not have to back track. I still manage to mess up the Blacksburg Transit, so I thought I would be doomed. The maps are helpful and Lonely Planet is incredible. So I conquered the Tube on several times. For people like my family, Christy Bell and Jason who have seen me get incredibly lost, you will understand my immense sense of victory.

4. I have set up a pay as you go cell phone (after discovering it was less than paying for phone cards). This morning after sorting through the bag troubles I sought out a place to sit and figure out the day's needs. I was greatly pleased to step off the train and find a familiar sight- Starbucks. On my way in I noticed an Orange store (cell phone service that is also available in the Dominican Republic). I ordered a mug of coffee, pulled out my Lonely Planet and reviewed the maps. After establishing a sense of where I was and the location of the hostel. I decided I should consider communication as well. After some math and then double checking I discovered that a pay-as-you-go-phone was the best option. The man in the Orange store was helpful and I felt a bit more empowered with a phone at hand.

5. I made it to the hostel which was again navigating on my own. My choice in hostel was made using my right hand man, Mr. Lonely Planet. I chose to stay at Arran House based on good reviews, budget and proximity to the British museums. It, however, it a bit of the hike from Hethrow. Using my maps I fairly easily found the hostel and was please to find that there was room in the inn. I was able to leave my carry-on belongings in the room and head out to explore.

All and all it has been a successful day. The baggage is slightly inconvenient, but I won't have to worry about transporting it to Nial and Maeve's house. Plus, being able to handle a slight hiccup just was affirmation that I am capable of exploring the world.

Hope all is well with each of you. Cheers!

Cameron