Rain drops of roof tops.....

Having an apartment and not living in the lab….makes such a huge difference to my mental state here. I know my way around, my French is ok and the people here make it very enjoyable.

Last night it started to rain and I could hear wonderful rain drops outside of my room on the terrace roof. I was sooo peaceful.

I enjoy my time here….I think taking time out of my Cambridge lab and well Cambridge in general is good for me. It makes one feel nomad-ish but really it makes you become alert and to appreciate your new surroundings and maybe reflect on the surroundings you have left behind. I am lucky that I have a great memory and make lots of mental notes so I amaze the people in my lab as I wander around as if I have worked here forever. I am used to just being put in the middle of a place and finding my way around by myself …it is really heartwarming to be here where people want to give me maps and draw out things for me like I am a little girl.

My parents believe in being prepared when you can be …as life shows you that there are plenty of times that jolt you out of your comfort zone. They always would do “a dry run” …so the day before we would drive to make sure we could find the place or even just check it out. …..I remember for my first interview (involving a proper science job)….My mom and dad said, “Why don’t we go and find where you are suppose to go.” This always gave such comfort and calmed any nerves. I never understand how more people don’t do this.

M is great at this…..he visited me in Cambridge right before I left to come here. He had an interview before and after his trip. He had left one of his suits at my house and was planning on leaving it further for his graduation in December. The night before he was leaving he said, “You know what, I am NOT going to leave that suit but wear it on the plane and pack my other one, that way if my luggage is lost then I will still be ok for my interview the next morning.” I said that sounds like a great idea…….and sure enough that is what happened. M’s bag was misplaced and so he just went and bought a new shirt and tie…as M is a big man, finding a suit is not an easy task….. This is Brilliant and he rocks in my book. Cleverness and planning to me are sooo sexy!

A year ago….yesterday was when he and I first met…… I know this as I was the rowing team captain and he was showing up for his first outing…...and I have a bizarre memory……