The eagle has landed, I repeat the eagle has landed.

Hi all! I'm updating this from the Starbucks in Stratford. Terribly lame choice of place for a first coffee and update, but I can't find any other decent Wi-Fi places and I supposed this will do until I find one that is free (aka the theatre).

My flight left at 7:20pm on Friday night. I, of course, got flagged for extra security at Logan so I got a full search, pat down, and explosives swipes on my belongings. The people at the security were actually really nice and funny, and I made light of the situation with them and it was all very fast and painless. They even said they wish they had more folks like me come through!

The plane was the largest I've ever flown on, and the view across the wing was insane. I still don't understand how planes are possible, especially ones of that size and weight! Haha. The flight was fairly smooth with minimal turbulence in the middle. While on the plane, I jotted down this 'post':

I'm 'blogging' from 36000 ft! Well...at least I'm writing this all down to upload later. The flight thus far has been grand. I've got not only a little entertainment system in my seat back, but also TWO seats, TWO pillows, and TWO blankets. The man sitting next to me for take-off abadoned his seat soon after for another one in the back because his video screen was broken. So, luxury for me! SWEET. I watched "Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day", which I enjoyed a good deal, and then I slept until I woke to find a tray placed next to me with breakfast. I was confused, because it was near midnight in eastern standard time, and only 4:50am in UK time) but the croissant they gave me was incredible. Actually, dinner that was served after take-off was surprisingly good too (chicken and potatoes). I think airline food has actually improved! (GASP!)

Back on the ground in London (a very smooth landing!), I made my way through a long line at immigration and had a brief moment of panic when the man asked if I had any papers proving my volunteer position at RSC, but he let me though and all was well. My bag was waiting in a "Priority Bags" section when I got to the claim area, which was a nice surprise! Heathrow is really well laid out and has clear signs. I found my way to the Tube and checked the instructions I'd printed out before I left, but soon discovered a cheaper and better way to go, so I lugged my stuff onto the Piccadilly line, transferred at Piccadilly Circus up to the Bakerloo line and arrived at the train terminal where I wasted 2.5 hours waiting for my train.

The trip up to Stratford wasn't bad. Lots of lovely views of the countryside and of LOTS of sheep. The lady I'm staying with was there when I arrived and she is very nice. She drove me around the area a bit to point out things before helping me settle into my room. She showed me how to use her shower (you have to turn on the hot water heater) and the water pressure is abismilally low, but I'll manage. It's a very cute house. I promise I'll take pictures later.

So, now I'm downtown for the rest of the afternoon/evening to explore a bit until I am too worn out to manage any more! Hehe :)

Also, I should mention that Starbucks here is lovely. They give you your drink in a mug if you choose to dine in the cafe. And they have much better looking treats. Also they have some different drinks...like hazelnut hot cocoa and blended blackcurrant and raspberry juice. YUM. I'll try some place more authentic later ;)

Love you all! Leave me notes and emails.

Cheers!
-Nat