I am fortunate to be living my dream. My colleague, Stephanie Boeninger, and I have been selected as the inaugural team to teach a colloquium in Providence College’s CIV-in-London program. It’s been delayed and complicated by the global pandemic, but my husband Bernard and I arrived safely yesterday. Stephanie and her family arrived two days ago.
Our first day was somewhat nightmarish, as inexplicably, our cell phone company suspended our service moments after we arrived in the UK. We had arranged for a driver to pick us (and our luggage) up at Heathrow, but he couldn’t text or call me. After an anxious hour, we finally connected.
In addition to being able to communicate via phone, email, and text, I rely on my cell phone to organize my life. So yesterday, when we had no data, my phone and tablet only worked while on WIFI, we had to find a phone store and our navigation didn’t work once we left the flat. The technician at the phone store couldn’t find anything wrong with the settings on our phones. We got back to the flat feeling both jet-lagged and defeated. At least on the WiFi I could message the cell phone company to trouble shoot our phones….that’s when we found out they had mistakenly stopped our phone service. So everything works, but it’s chastening to realize how dependent I have become on technology.
On our way to the phone store, we passed Liverpool Street Station. It is stunning, and I loved the juxtaposition of the old and the new. It opened in 1874 and has been beautifully renovated and maintained. Filled with light, travelers can find all kinds of services and places to eat within.
So, we are exploring our neighborhood and dealing with the jet lag. More to follow. Thanks for tuning in!
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