Month: January 2016

To My Parents

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Unexpected visits often become the most welcome. In exactly one month, my father will be heading up to St Andrews for a short vacation before heading to London on business. At the start of the term, I never even dreamed that this would occur, and now that he is so close to calling, I am so happy.

My excitement for his impending stay spurred some late night reflections. Uncharacteristic of my age, I actually enjoy spending time with my parents. Sometimes I prefer their company to my friends, whether it be watching a period film with my mother or going for a drive in the country with my father. Though I adore my friends, these are the memories that truly resonate with me, and the ones I keep closest to my heart.

Coming to university has greatly increased my appreciation for my parents and all they do for me. Yet going beyond their support of my passions, their financial assistance, and willingness to let me roam wild, I think I am most thankful for the fact that they accept me for me. While I try my hardest to be wholeheartedly Maggie while meeting new people, my social anxieties at times take over, and either crippling shyness or off-putting eccentricity bubbles to the surface. While I have grown a lot as a person since my teenage years, I am nowhere near figuring out exactly who, or what, I am. Adding this to the task of meeting new people in a foreign country, and I begin to feel overwhelmed.

Perhaps this is the reason why I cherish spending time with my parents. Pretenses melt away and whomever I feel like being for the day is not only accepted, but loved. While I try my best to be outgoing and friendly, I am an introverted person: I like to be quiet and to think. A lot of my friends are not used to this side of me, and assume something is wrong if I am not the chipper and smiling Maggie they befriended. Yet around my parents, they simply exist in the contemplative silence with me, which I find refreshing.

My parents also love me for my unusual side, which I am so incredibly thankful for. After almost two decades of people consistently bullying me and being cruel to me for my fanciful nature, it is nice to be reminded that my quirks are a crucial part of who I am, and to never suppress them. My mother and father indulge my belief in magic, listen to my outlandish stories, and encourage me to find joy in the simplest of things. While one may think that these nudges of approval are not monumental, they mean so much to me, since I sometimes question if I am in fact wrong for being my odd little self.

So I eagerly await my fellow Hobbit’s arrival into the Shire, for the adventures we will embark on will be splendid. It will be refreshing to dismantle a few of my barriers and allow myself to be truly uninhibited, simply with my father’s encouraging presence. I do not doubt that I will look back on his wee visit, which we are planning with culinary conquests, pub-going, and frolicking in the magnificent scenery, with the warmest regard.

Originally written 19 March 2013

Simplicity

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“I brake for birds. I rock a lot of polka dots. I have touched glitter in the last 24 hours. I spend my entire day talking to children … but that doesn’t mean I’m not smart and tough and strong.”

 Jess Day, New Girl

Recently, this quote has inspired me as I face a challenge of entering the adult world. Often I find myself at a loss when adults, and even some of my peers, do not respect me because I choose to indulge my imagination. I find this quite saddening.

Particularly in today’s society, those with immense imaginations and who remain true to themselves should command the most respect. In an age of efficiency, fact, and structure, we tend to lose sight of what makes us human: the capacity of contemplating and giving meaning to the beauties of life. Any who are willing to believe in fantasy, romance, and idealism despite this ever-chilling world view should be applauded, for they are able to see what many no longer can, and that is a rare gift.

So often in my life I have encountered opposition to my fanciful nature, which is altogether disheartening because it is really the only thing I fancy about who I am. However, it has grown into more of a plight as I age. Many tend to write me off as a “dumb blonde” or a simpleton for the sole reason that I find wonderment in the everyday. Yet is not such idealism what inspired some of the greatest art, music, and poetry, an exposé on the everyday in order to enhance human existence?

Indeed, I will vehemently defend the existence of dragons. All of my clothes are floral or polka dot dresses. Flying a kite sounds like time well spent. It is my goal to stop and pet every puppy I see on the street. However, I also work very hard to achieve my goals. I am capable of an insightful discussion on literary works. My independence is something I pride myself on. One must never forget that there are two sides to every coin. I simply choose to laugh easily and be awed by life’s simple pleasures because it makes me happy. Happiness is a virtue, yet somehow it has been debased and warped by the cynicism of today, which casts an immense rain cloud on the human parade.

So here is my advice to you: applaud the romantics, the dreamers, and the idealists. Stop to have a conversation with them and listen to what they have to say. You may find yourself with a new perspective on life that you were previously missing in your haste. Personally, the individual who is content to watch the clouds and make up fanciful stories about what they see seems a very worthwhile companion. Go, surprise yourself, and live a bit simply.

Originally written 8 March 2013

Sharing the Adventure in Edinburgh

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Today, my friend and I went on a jaunt around Edinburgh. Though I have journeyed here several times now, I actually discovered some new and exciting destinations. What made the experience more enriching, though, was the opportunity to see it through the eyes of a longtime friend from home, as if I were seeing the entire city itself anew.

St. Margaret’s Chapel within the castle was open after a year of refurbishment, and it was so interesting to set foot in a building so ancient. Built in the 12th Century, the chapel is the oldest building within Edinburgh Castle. It made me wish I was from the medieval times.

My next new adventures was the Edinburgh Writer’s Museum, with dedications to Robert Louis Stevenson, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Burns. As I am studying Robert Burns in English next week, I found it quite helpful to gain a bit of insight into his life and works.

Finally, my favorite stop was in Bacchus Antiques, located in a wee ramshackle building on Victoria Street. Though it looks decrepit and ancient on the outside, within is a pristine haven of antiquities. The master of the shop is most likely a wizard who opened his little pride and joy in 1142 AD, and he gave us an insightful little tour into his collection. I acquired a nice antique compass to wear around my neck. I have decided I want to visit him more often.

Originally written 27 February 2013

Cairngorms National park

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This weekend, whilst one of my school friends is visiting, we decided to take a trip northwards to Cairngorms National Park. To say it was beautiful is a severe understatement. A dream to set foot in the Scottish Highlands was realized, and my heart soars.

We spent Saturday hiking all around Braemar, the village we stayed in. There were excellent walking paths all around the hills and valleys. While we did not trek all of them, the ones we were fortunate enough to find offered stunning views of the surrounding woodlands and hills. I think my favorite part, though, was when we reached a particular valley at the end of our path. The world was completely still as we kept company with some old, wispy trees. Never before have I heard silence such as this, but it was the most harmonious and peaceful I have ever felt.

On Sunday, we went for an extended pony trek in the village of Aboyne. As an avid horsewoman, traversing the Scottish wilderness on horseback allowed me to realize a long-held dream. I miss my horses so much, so the chance to get back in the saddle is beyond words.

Originally written 24 February 2013

A Winter Wander Part III: Edinburgh

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My journey concluded with a stop to the Christmas Market in Edinburgh. Though I have visited the city before, it was nice to return and see if I remember all of my favorite places. The market also added a festive atmosphere that made me all the more excited to return home.

My top priority was the oft-discussed food of the Christmas market. I kicked off my treats with a cinnamon-sugar crepe, which tasted festive in and of itself. It reminded me of the cinnamon-sugar toast my mother used to make me as a child, which offered me comfort in my anticipation to return home. My second ambition was to try mead. It was even served in a finely crafted, artisanal mug to keep. Feeling rather Viking-like with mead and handmade mugs pleased me.

I also had the chance to visit the Scottish National Gallery, an art museum in the heart of the city. My family and I ran out of time during our visit, thus, we could not see it. This time, though, I was determined to tour its halls and experience my first true glimpse into fine art. The marble statues were a particular favorite, as they looked as if they would come alive right before my eyes. No photos were allowed in the gallery, yet I stealthily swiped this shot of the stairwell, in which dozens of marble busts adorned the walls. Imposing, yet intriguing.

Originally written 19 December 2012

A Winter Wander Part II: Durham

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Instead of heading to Alnwick Castle, the tour was shifted to Durham, a beautiful city just outside Newcastle. I recall seeing it from the train on my journey to St Andrews and commenting on how lovely it looked, so I was thrilled to get the chance to explore it.

Anyone that knows me well can understand how excited I became at sighting this pub. I attempted to go in, however, it is a very local establishment filled with swarthy old men, so I decided to leave. However, it was a very intriguing little pub with amazing history. The building itself was constructed in 1109 A.D.

Next we visited the Durham Cathedral, which was one of the most gorgeous buildings I had ever seen. I have never really visited a proper cathedral before, so I essentially wandered about with my mouth agape. Above is a finely crafted door knocker on the entrance to the cathedral.

Here is a nice vista of Durham seen from the cathedral tower. I climbed 325 steps up a narrow, winding enclosure to get to the top. It was fascinating to think of how many feet traversed those steps, and it put into perspective just how antiquated these places in the United Kingdom are. The view from the tower was breathtaking, and well worth the effort. The view itself was enough of a Christmas gift for me.

Perhaps my favorite part of the cathedral, though, was the cloisters. Everything was so peaceful in this courtyard, it was such a nice experience to see this place of sanctuary. Also, I was told that a few scenes from the Harry Potter movies were filmed in these cloisters. As a film enthusiast, I always appreciate visiting locations used for filming.

The day concluded with chicken pâté, prosciutto-wrapped cod, and a tipple of white wine at The Cellar Door, a lovely and quaint restaurant on the way to the cathedral. The atmosphere was wonderful: soft lighting, fresh flowers on the table, good food, and a home-like feel. If anyone ever travels to Durham, this is the restaurant I highly recommend.

Originally written 19 December 2012

A Winter Wander Part I: Newcastle-upon-Tyne

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On Monday, I journeyed down to Newcastle-upon-Tyne to begin a three- day tour of England and Scotland before I head home for Christmas. I thought it would be nice to use some of my down time to explore some of the surrounding area. So, I packed my rucksack for the first adventure: visiting the homeland of my mother’s family.

Newcastle is such a delightful city. Pictured above is a beautiful church near the town center. It was intriguing to see the place my grandmother, aunt, and so many others speak about so fondly. Though I am not acquainted with any of the distant relatives that live here, it was exciting to feel connected to the city somehow, in the sense that somewhere, my blood was roaming the streets just as I was.

I also visited the Castle Keep, the architecture of which was breathtaking. Unlike Edinburgh Castle, most of the keep was open to the public. There were so many wee corridors and secret chambers to lose myself in. I do not believe I will ever grow tired of visiting old castles, since I let my imagination run free and place myself in the time of their glory.

Newcastle was an amazing place, and I am so lucky that I had the chance to explore somewhere so important to my family. It was such a lovely trip that I’m excited to share with everyone when I return home for the Christmas holiday.

Originally written 19 December 2012

First Semester Reflections

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In six days I will be homeward bound. I almost cannot even fathom that an entire semester has passed since I last laid eyes on my home, Bear, and all that was familiar to me. I can honestly say that these past few months have simultaneously been some of the most challenging yet rewarding of my life.

Some days, when I am feeling rather lonely, I remember the fact that this time last year, attending St Andrews might have been a fantasy. The emotions and frustration that time conjures makes me appreciate every breath of Scottish air I draw. I am thankful that I have the opportunity to explore such a beautiful place while attaining a world-class education. After so many years of being dissatisfied with my high school education, St Andrews, at times, still feels like a fantasy. The students, the locals, the architecture, the classes, and the sea all blend in a glorious harmony that I get to call my life. It is almost as if I am living one of my stories, and I cannot believe it.

Though I have faced some challenges, such as initial homesickness, anonymity, loneliness, and challenging coursework, I could not have asked for a better first semester. Yet unfathomably, everyone asserts that your university experience gets better as the years pass. As ineffably happy as I am today, I do not know if my heart can accommodate any more wonderful experiences.

So I eagerly await what is to come. Yet unlike my high school self, I do not wish for today to end. Instead, I revel in each and every sunrise, smiling gleefully to myself that I am here. I could not have asked for a more rewarding and lovely experience as a St. Andrews student, and I am already ravenous for more.

To quote my favorite hobbit, “The road goes ever on and on…”

Originally written 16 December 2012

Raisin Weekend: A St Andrews tradition

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St Andrews is an historic university noted for its varied traditions. Raisin Weekend is one specifically targeted toward the newest class of students attending the university, intending to welcome the first year cohort to the university and encourage them to feel at home in the wider academic community.

Historically, an upper-class student, typically in their third year, would be partnered with one or two first year students as a sort of mentor. The upper-class student would tour the university and the town with the first year, answering questions and acting as a support system for the younger student. To thank the older student, the first year would present him or her with a bag of raisins, hence the reference to the dried snack.

As notions of propriety have evolved over time, so too have the festivities for this mentorship tradition. Today, an upper-class student will “adopt” one or several first year students (including older students who are studying abroad at St Andrews for a semester or a year). At times, friend will partner together to create an academic “family”, complete with any combination of “parental” figures, extended “family” groups, and so on. Raisin festivities begin with the academic “mother” hosting her “children” for a breakfast at her home, followed by a scavenger hunt for the first year students to better acquaint themselves with the town and its traditions. The first years will then move on to their academic “father”, being taken to various homes for different house parties for the opportunity to meet more students and socialize. The following day, the first years are brought again to their “mother’s” home for breakfast. Later, they are dressed in costumes to be taken to a large shaving foam fight held in St Salvatore’s Quad. Along the way, the “children” must pick up an object, known as a “Raisin Receipt”, from their academic “father” to present as a means of entry into the quad.

For my Raisin Weekend, my academic mother dressed my siblings and I as Arthur’s knights of the round table and Merlin, carrying the Holy Grail to Arthur who lay injured in Sallie’s Quad. Raisin Weekend was quite a bit of fun, and I feel as though I should begin planning something just as memorable for my own academic children two years from now.

Originally written 19 November 2012

Cross Country Running in Scotland

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Yesterday, a few of the cross country team members and I packed off to Glasgow to participate in the SSS XC Championships. In the three races I have participated in this season, this was by far the most challenging; not due to hills, not due to distance, but because of mud. There was also a really difficult back section to the course, into the wind, and through a marshy bog. Though it appeared as a straightforward piece of terrain, one’s feet only sunk deep into soggy, squishy grass. How tiring!

These races, though, are what I look forward to on my weekends. I enjoy the opportunity to spend time with some kindred spirits, being outdoors, and competing once again. I also take pleasure in observing how each adventure unfolds in a very similar way. We all start out a little quiet and shy on the ride there, but as the day progresses, we end up bonding and having a great time.

Joining the cross country team here has been one of the best decisions I have ever made since I arrived at St Andrews. Though I am still competitive at heart, the fact that these races are for fun, without the pressure of points, varsity places, and school records is very liberating. Everyone is simply in for the fun of it, and the chance to make some new friends.

Originally written 18 November 2012