An Embarrassment of Riches

For the past two days I've walked to the mile to the British Library from my hotel, enjoying the hustle and bustle of London mornings. I watch the locals scurry around the slow-moving tourists and I listen to the buses screech at each stop. I've been incredibly productive here, which is a wonderful feeling since I've been quite the opposite since I moved to Seattle. I'm comfortable in the British Library, which is saying a lot right now. I get there before it opens (9:30am), down a quick espresso, and stand in line to have my bag searched. My manuscripts are waiting for me in the Reading Room and I open my computer and get to work.

Last summer was an embarrassment of riches; there were so many manuscripts to look at I didn't know where to turn. I was so wonderfully overwhelmed that the logical part of my brain turned off and I just basked in how lucky I was. Honestly, I think it was the right move -- part of last summer was about filling life-long dreams for me. Now I'm back with more of a logical eye and I'm transcribing, taking notes, and quickly moving through the tasks that I need to accomplish. It feels good.

I've been seeing lots of friends from the Library, which is lovely to say the least; The Boot, my favorite pub, welcomed me with open arms -- to say nothing of the pint of Guinness and my dinner of a traditional Irish Bacon and Cabbage. I also gotten to catch up with Dr. Virago over Bangladeshi food last night, which was super yummy.

I woke up an hour earlier than usual so I could talk with K. a little longer. I should probably head off for my last full day of research before tonight's orientation with the kiddies.