Settling In

  Today marks my first full day back at Lincoln College, Oxford.  I'm still a bit jet lagged so will write more eloquently about returning to Oxford in a few days.  However, it has been a wonderful journey back to one of my favorite places and I am feeling a renewed sense of inspiration as I settle into my life here.  Today we registered for our library cards at the Bodleian (more to come on this later) and met with the Director of Bread Loaf Oxford before topping the night off with High Table Dinner.  Tomorrow I'll have my first class on Shakespeare's First Folio with Emma Smith.  Feeling excited and ready to go!
  Until I'm able to sit down and write about my first few days, I'll post a few pictures:


                                                    The Streets and Spires of Oxford

                                                        Christ Church, Oxford

                                                    Taking the Oath at the Bodleian Library

                                                              High Table Dinner

Brits and Americans

The American take on being British: sport a fascinator and a well-dressed butler.

The British take on being American: sport denim, carry a baseball, and wave the American flag.

The gargoyle from my window. . .

This lil guy has been giving me an ugly look all summer. Maybe Dad was right when he said, "your face will freeze that way."

The Accidental - Time & Space

My anthem for the summer....

August 1st

"I wonder anyone does anything at Oxford but dream and remember, the place is so beautiful. One almost expects the people to sing instead of speaking." - William Butler Yeats

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim from afar

Inner Blenheim Palace

The Water Terraces

Italian Gardens

Our picnic overlooking the Palace

A few days ago, my dad and I spent the day at Blenheim Palace. Blenheim is located in Woodstock, just a short bus ride away from Oxford. The home of the 11th Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim is a privately owned palace. It was originally a gift from Queen Anne to John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough. And yes, this is also where Winston Churchill was born. It's quite a place!

Blenheim Palace has many spectacular grounds and gardens, and we spent the day exploring them. My favorite was the Rose Garden, as it smelled absolutely heavenly. However, due to the extent and size of this estate there are so many areas we had to leave unexplored. I hope to return soon!

Recent shots around Oxford

Woodstock (and my Dad who's visiting!) I ask myself this question all the time.

Christ Church, Oxford

Oxford

Bridge of Sighs, Oxford