Checking in from Hanoi!

I love everything about this city. Except the pollution, which is really everywhere just more apparent here, and the barganing, which is also everywhere except Can Tho. I've been in shell shock the past few days trying to get use to city life. It's a little bit ridiculous, but I have had some anxiety getting use to things. A lot of foreigners, a lot of English flying around. I'm officially done living by myself in the Delta and it has been hitting me hard. Luckily I'm staying with Kristen so I'm not going through the transition on my own. She has a lot of friends here and it is overwhelming to meet everyone, but once the anxiety settles I remember that that is what I love about Hanoi, and why last time I came to visit I wanted to move here. I still have that feeling.

I rented a bike, which is terrifying and definitely not something everyone could do, but since I have experience riding already I went for it, and it was a good idea because it is saving me a ton of money. Once I got past the initial "Wow, this is NOT the same as riding in Can Tho," it's actually not that bad. It's a great way to get to see the city. And staying with Kristen is nice because I am basically pretending that I live here, and I like it. (Mom & Dad- don't worry, I know what you're thinking, and I'm still coming home.) But they have a lot of non-profits here, so who knows.. maybe one day.

I've spent a lot of time catching up on sleep. I didn't even realize how much sleep I wasn't getting, but I certainly have needed a few days to get myself together. It's hot here, but not as hot as in the Delta yet, and Kristen's room is cool and there is a comfortor on the bed... I can sleep with a blanket again! And no mosquito net! It really is the little things in life...

So I'll be spending the next week here until Geoff comes to visit. Tomorrow I think we'll find a pool and just relax, and I've been doing a lot of reading. Finished Bill Bryson, which I've already raved about. Just read The Last Lecture (in about one day). If you like Mitch Albom, I'd highly recommend it. It's prety similar to Tuesday's with Morrie. I'm now reading A Return to Love, which I'd recommend if you like analyzing your life, thinking about spirituality, God, or looking for a change. It's a lot of ideas I'm already familiar with, but it has a little bit of a twist that I find intriguing. So far, so good.

Congrats to NU Class of '09! ...which is pretty much all of my friends in Boston. I just spent the last hour looking at all of your pictures, and I'm so proud! I wish I could have been there. It was weird only graduating with a few friends, Marg and I didn't go to ANY senior week events haha. Anyway, Congrats! I can't believe it's already May. I'll be home THIS MONTH. I'm not ready to leave. I know I say something different each time I mention that. Feel bad for the people (Geoff) that will be around me my last few days here. It's been a rollarcoaster of emotions.. but at least I'm consistant about that being true! I hope you are doing well, where ever you are reading this from! xoxo