Wow, look at the buns on that one!

That's what I think people are going to be saying about me in a few weeks. Let me tell you that my legs and butt have been getting a workout since we moved here. No car, no bike, just this fine set of legs and a bus pass.

On Monday, in order to save money, I walked from our flat down to the examinations room. To give you an idea on how far that is see below:

Okay, so it wasn't a 3.4 mile walk like the map says (I didn't have to follow the one-way streets), but it was probably a good 2.5-3 mile walk. I was dead when I got there and don't think I'll be doing that again. I definitely haven't walked this much since my mission and I'm pretty sure Janie hasn't walked this much ever, but it is good for you and forces me to exercise. My classes will only be about a 25 minute walk but I do plan on getting a bike soon. Janie will be getting her TV tomorrow, but only a 21" one...but who's counting.

A few observations from the past week and a half-

It is not easy opening a bank account in another country. I have been trying for a week now with no success. Armed with a letter of introduction from my college, I'm hoping it happens tomorrow. I have to get my student loan money somehow. Or maybe I'll just create a PayPal account to accept anonymous donations from wealthy philanthropists....

I just can't come to say "Cheerio" Nothing against the saying or anything but it just can't roll off my tongue. Cheers I will get used to but Cheerio? I don't know. We'll see if I change.

Living in a foreign country with a spouse is a lot different than doing it on your own. When we were preparing to leave, I didn't think about kitchen supplies and I laughed at Janie for wanting to bring her steak knives and potato peeler. In my mind, I was like all we need are a couple of plates, cups, and a frying pan. Evidently (and $200 later) I was wrong. We need pots, soup bowls, cutting boards, three pots, two frying pans, etc.) If I have to do it again, I'd ship a box of kitchen stuff....

It can be really confusing when you say you would like a pound of potatoes when pound can mean the weight or the dollar amount. When I said it the lady was like "You want a pound of potatoes or 4 pounds of potatoes for a pound?" I thought four pounds for the equivalent of $1.70 wasn't bad, but now Janie and I have to eat them (not to mention the 14 bananas I got for a pound, and the strawberries, and the oranges). The markets are definitely the best place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. El Cheapo Tip #1

I have a feeling it isn't going to be easy finding Janie a job in Oxford. We have applied (actually I have done all the paperwork...it's like she isn't in a rush) to four or five places with no response. I'm thinking retail is her best bet...but hopefully something easy. I just don't want to have to dip into our savings or take out more loans.....I know I know, it will be worth it for the experience....I'm not convinced...yet.

Overall Oxford is very nice...smaller than I imagined with less shops than I imagined outside of the city centre (notice the British spell check of the work Centre, just getting ready for my thesis). I do think we will enjoy it and know time is going to fly. On the 17th I get to do my Harry Potter impression....we will be taking pictures that can be autographed for a small fee.