One month later

I can't believe I've been here an entire month so far.  In some respects it seems like I just got here, but then in others, it feels like I've been here forever...
I have to say, I've really surprised myself with how well I feel like I've been adjusting to life so far away from home.  It was certainly nervewracking to prepare, and pack, and get here on my own... but once I got here, it was like I sort of fell into a groove. 
As my schedule became more set, things really just kept feeling "right."  I've gotten used to cooking for myself (and thus having to think early on in the day about what I'll be eating that night), I've found the grocery stores I like for different products (which has the best meat, produce, vegetables, and such), I call Gloucester Road "my" tube stop, and I feel comfortable and familiar with the main streets in my area.  I've fallen in love with my marketing class, and have been completely awakened to a whole new world of advertising here in the U.K.

I'm lucky to have made great friends in my two roommates.  The trips we've taken together so far have been great experiences, and we're already planning for more this semester (look out for those posts!)  We get along so well, and we're always laughing and having a good time, no matter what we're doing.

That all being said, don't get me wrong-- I still miss home and my family and friends!  Emails from my mom, pictures of my friends having fun at college, Skype chats with my dad and sisters, and even just the thought of New York pizza make my heart ache!  I think what's helped is that I'm not letting myself dwell on it.  Everytime I get a pang of homesickness, I just try to think "Okay, yes I know I'm missing [insert N.Y. person/place/food item here] right now.  But it'll still be there in two months when I'm home!"  A semester seems like a long time, but in reality, it's going to fly by unbelievably fast.  And I think I've really focused on making sure I embrace and enjoy this entire experience while I can.

Don't worry, Long Island/New York-- you still have my heart!  But we can make room in it for London too, right?  I think it's big enough. :)

I'm sending my thoughts home to all my family and friends in the States!  You're all in my heart, today and everyday.