Mind the Gap: London Lies.

Word-a-coaster on Oxford St. Each ball contains a fortune.

From pub crawls in Camden to my first fish and chips, so much has happened since my last post. I started classes, which, so far, have all been amazing. Unlike my previous courses, all the ones I am taking here are very specialized, which means I finally get to take classes that truly pertain to my Neuroscience major. My favorites so far are Human Neuroanatomy, which also goes into a subsection of neurodegenerative diseases and is taught by the most adorable old man, and 19th and 20th century Art History, which takes us to various art galleries throughout London to study pieces from each era. Our first era is Romanticism, for which we started at the Tate Britain to view a special exhibition by John Martin on apocalyptic art. Though many pieces were a bit terrifying, all were beautiful; I really like how the concept behind romanticism is about personal reaction to nature rather than literal interpretation.

The Portico at the entrance to UCL.

Making like the Beatles in the four-level M&M store.

One thing I love about the British museums, or I guess London in general compared to LA, is how much more history there is. On every corner there seems to be another piece of history -- a duke's house here, a writer's office there -- it is a wonderful feeling to be surrounded by a city so rich with culture and an important past.

As far as sightseeing goes, this week we explored the Tower of London. This was the royal place of residence up until the Tudor family reign, as well a prison and place of execution (including those of King Henry VIII's wives). It is also home to the crown jewels and the royal armory.We also crossed the Tower Bridge (after taking about a gazillion pictures) and had a quick glimpse of the Monument (for the Great Fire) and the London Bridge, which was sadly not quite as picturesque or ornate as the Tower Bridge.


Tower of London. The statues are tributes to the real lions who used to guard the Tower.


The Tower Green. Home to executions of many, including Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard.


The original Tower of London.

Our Beefeater tour guide.

The Tower grounds.

Though I'm not quite a master yet, I am slowly becoming proficient at navigating myself through the London tube system. New year's resolution to be able to read a map: almost check!

The London Bridge tube station.

Tomorrow I am headed to the London Science museum, which is super exciting because, as a large child, I am fascinated by interactive exhibits and simulated rides.

I also found out recently that Shelley Tucker, the matron of the lovely Tucker family, has finally been released from the hospital and allowed to recover at home. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers for a safe and speedy healing!