Washer, and papers, and spring, oh my!

There is too much, let me sum up.

(I know that is a mash up of the Wizard of Oz and the Princess Bride, but it may help explain how I feel today)

Some of my family will arrive in little less than a day.
My washer quit working and I need clean clothes.
My many assignments are submitted.
I will now hold my breath until grades come out.
It is SPRING!!!

I keep saying the grades do not matter but I am worried, I I hope that my work proves I actually learned what they intended.
The weather is beautiful and I would love to spend every moment outside or at least have a window to open.
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I think, get used to disappointment might fit in here....but I don't want to dwell on the things I cannot change, I will just keep looking for those ruby slippers I've misplaced.

Before I elaborate on a few things, enjoy these pics from this week. I love walking along the banks of the Thames and how different it looks every time especially as everything springs back to life.

Spring is such an amazing time of year. It is a rebirth and a renewal and that it coincides with Easter is not by chance. It is so amazing that within a week or two the whole world changes. Also reminiscent of how quickly the Lord can change us, our hearts, and the things around us. So many beautiful similitudes and lessons with the change of each season. I am so happy spring is here!

As I have mentioned, writing is not one of my strengths although it is very satisfying when completed. Everything I have submitted in the last few weeks is a culmination of the past 7 months and four different modules. The final assignments included, 5 papers (totaling approx. 18,000 words), 2 group assignments, a materials Notebook, a sketchbook, and a condition and analysis report. The sketchbook was my go to for creative inspiration mingled in with all the left brained portions. Now that everything is submitted I worry that everything was done correctly and that it all sufficiently conveys that I learned what I was supposed to learn. No matter the subject, this is where I tend to hold my breath until grades come out. Traveling and enjoying some time in France and Scotland with my family will be the perfect break before I begin the next four moths of a full dive into my dissertation and project.

The washer.....heavens....it was not draining so I let the landlord know and it took 2 weeks for someone to come fix it. After the repairman left I ran a load but the problem was not fixed. Nevertheless, laundry needed to be done so I improvised. All my years of living on my own and being self sufficient have also made me quite resourceful. I had to watch each load closely and drain the water manually so the cycle would keep going. The dryer was struggling so each load had to be hung up to dry. Gratefully, with some help, the spin cycle worked so everything was free of as much water as possible. It is a good thing that I only do a load or two a week.

I am very excited for a few of my family members to come for a visit. My mom, sister Kelli and niece Lindsey (Lou) arrive tomorrow and we have some fun things planned. I hope they love this part of the world as much as I do. I will of course share our adventures here!

Cheers!