Arrival in Oxford, May 27, 2012

I arrived in the beautiful city of Oxford today!  I rode a coach (bus) from London to Oxford.  Although it was only 60 miles, it was a 2 hour ride with pick up stops.  I got off the bus and began to ask bystanders if they knew where Wadham College was.  It was too far to roll my 2 heavy bags (I overpacked again!) so I took a taxi.  He let me out right in front of Wadham College at the Porter's Lodge.  I was standing in front of those hugh, elaborate doors that go into the college with my luggage, bags, etc and felt like Maria in the Sound of Music!  It was magical. I was finally here!  Wadham College is where I am residing for the first 3 weeks.  I had to find my own accommodation.  At the end of 3 weeks, I move over to Jesus College.  Close to 40 colleges and halls make up Oxford University.  Today was sunny and warm.  People were out in droves enjoying the sunshine in the parks and all over the city.

My 2nd paragraph has erased itself 2 times, so I will try again!  I was telling about checking in with the Porter at the Porter's Lodge to get my key, etc.  This school is over 400 years old!  I was fortunate to get a dorm room that has been recently restored.  I think I am the first one to use the room!  I had to recruit a young man to help carry my 50 lb. suitcase up the steps for me.  He was from New Jersey visiting a friend at Wadham!

I walked into the town to get something to eat.  What an ancient, indescribable place!  Lots of choices to pick from as far as food is concerned.  Anything you would ever want!  It was fun to eat and watch the people walk by.  I had a front row seat!  I decided to do a "test" walk to the location of my class in the a.m. from my dorm.  It took 25 minutes.  I will allow 30 so I will be on time!

Tonight back at the dorm, I heard music so I followed it into the school's old chapel.  I was invited in for the evening Evensong service.  The school choral group sang and there was a short sermon.  It was very Anglican!  I enjoyed it.  When I got out, it was still light, so I walked to the grocery store for some basics.  Hardly anything was left on the shelves.  The students were big shoppers!

This is it for this day, my first in Oxford!  I can't wait to see who the other 11 are going to be in the class tomorrow morning!  I will fill you in soon on all the details!