Brasenose College

I am now in my dorm room, relaxing after a sight-seeing tour of the Oxford campus. Let me just say, Oxford is amazing! There is so much beauty, architecture, culture, and history. Everywhere I turn I feel as if I am surrounded by greatness.
When we first arrived in Oxford we took some time to freshen up and then headed to a real English pub for lunch. Founded in the 17th century, the pub we dined in has been a favorite for generations of Oxford graduates. Just walking into the pub was awesome…I felt as if I were sitting beside all my favorite characters from a fantasy novel. There was Frodo Baggins in the corner sipping ale and guarding the ring, Eragon listening to Brom tell a tale of the old Dragon Riders, and Harry Potter having a pint at The Three Broomsticks with Ron and Hermione. Besides feeling like a fantasy novel, I also felt overwhelmed with a sense of history. Who knows what famous Oxford graduate might have sat by the very same window? I was eating on some pretty ancient territory.

My group decided to order traditional British foods. I enjoyed a vegetable pasty—Redwall fans, you know exactly what I’m talking about. It was delicious—baked in a flaky shell and filled with yummy veggies, it was kind of like a personal potpie. My friend Shannon had fish and chips. I’d list all the orders, but I’m sure I will write plenty about food in the near future, so I will try to contain myself. I just have to say that I think pasties might be my new favorite thing…and I am delighted to see that there is an entire shop dedicated to pasty baking and selling right in downtown Oxford. :)

My dorm room is quite elegant, for a dorm room. It is spacious and has a window that looks out into a courtyard. Some of the group members got super-lucky and received a room with special features such as a piano or a tile fireplace. I don’t mind though, I like my room’s simplicity. :)

More to come soon, but I am too tired right now!