And after all this, won’t you give me a smile?

Things I will miss about the USA (cont.):

• Free grocery carts
  

Today, Karee and I both slept until about 13:00, because we both had quite rough nights, thanks to jet lag. After going to bed around 22:00, I woke up, bright-eyed and bushy tailed, at 1:30 am. I attempted to fall asleep back asleep with the help of music, but I had way too much turning in my brain. I caved and got on Facebook, and also watched an episode of the Tutors. Around 3:15, I saw Karee's status, saying that she was awake. And then around 4, I tried the iPod trick again. After 15 minutes, my sleep timer had shut the device off, so I just shut my eyes and forced myself into sleep, which didn't come until sometime close to 5 am. Needless to say, I hope tonight goes better than last night!

Upon waking, I couldn't wait to take a shower. But, unfortunately, that did not happen, because the hot water was not working. I thought maybe it would warm up after I got in the shower (not sure where my logic was in that decision), and ended up standing in the tiled cubicle shivering, before I heard a knock at the door. I got out, put on a towel, and was thrilled to see Anne, the angel! She asked me if I was having trouble getting hot water, and then showed me a switch in the cabinet that would make all the difference. However, the water still was not getting hot, because I think it needed to warm up. Needless to say, I did not get a shower and am hoping to do that as soon as I complete this post.

After making myself look somewhat presentable, Karee and I set out for shops…without a map, or any idea where we were going. We managed to get to Surbiton with the helpful directions from Anne, as well as the frequent advice from locals, who were so kind and patient. We made our way to the T-mobile and Carphone Wearhouse stores, where we were told something shocking: in order to purchase a phone contract for any length of time, you must have a UK bank account. One would think that they could merely use your American account to check your credit, which is all they really want the UK one for, but nope. So, Karee and I are still phoneless in London.

After the disappointing trip to the mobile phone stores, we went to the 99p store (like our dollar stores) to see what groceries we could find for cheap. There wasn't a whole lot in the food department, but we did get shampoos and the like. Then we went to Sainsbury's for the rest of our groceries, which was quite an experience! You have to pay for the grocery carts, but, thank goodness, can get baskets for free. Everything is in smaller containers, lasts for much less time, and is more expensive (or at least it seems to be). But, today, I spent a grand total of £17, and got quite a lot for my buck, I think.

I am going to work on my budget soon to figure out how much I should expect and plan to spend each week. I have a feeling that transportation, groceries, and phone bills are going to get pricey…

Karee and I are going to watch some Harry Potter tonight after we eat some supper. Seems like the right thing to do in London.

Love,
lvp