Compass

I have to be frank and tell you that I not only planned on streeettchiinnggg you slowly over these next couple months, but I essentially wanted to see how close I could get to killing you off. This might come as a shock to you and don’t get me wrong, I adore your comfort, but the whole zonal thing just has to go. However, I am terribly sorry for blowing straight through you in this first week. I had no idea that “stretching” was not an option; I either stay within your parameters or I cut loose of them. Now, you are layered so I still have plenty more barriers to break through, but I wanted to take the time to formally apologize because, believe me, you weren’t the only one caught by surprise!

Within your safe zone I sleep more, keep a steady blood pressure, and avoid all situations that could possibly lead to a moment of awkwardness. Outside of your walls my nerves spike, my pores seep with spontaneity, and I live for the risk of stepping out into the unknown. Week one saw a number of firsts: first time in a pub, first random roommate, first time using public transportation on my own, first time having dinner with a stranger, first full blown/muscle aching sprint through the airport, first time eating jacket potatoes, and first time owning rain boots.

This week I ignored my pillow, traveled to over 10 boroughs, went into 5 free museums, became the art, and sat in moments that could never be captured. One of my favorites being the time I departed with one friend, found another, and made one more as we watched the third play his guitar through with buzz on the Thames River; dusk hit, bubbles floated according to their imagination, the city lights began to turn on and I stood still as every sense sat content and 100% present.

Best of luck to you,

Riley Makenna

london tower ft. becca

indian food

borough market

thames river

westminster abbey church

skyline

buckingham

try 3

first roomie photo

the london eye

ate lunch here

big ben ft. amelia (roommate) & her friend jelly

i wanted to hear all the bells so we all stared at the clock for ten minutes without talking. silence can say so much.

the park i walk through to get to class

view from my school

trying to ft. berlin wall at the imperial museum

i havent bought an umbrella yet because i want a clear one

attempt 2

soho

sweet scene that i experienced when i ran out of our indian dinner to feel the snowflakes

caught in a rainstorm ft. snow

london bridge ft. fergie

try 4

tenth floor of tate modern

i’m a wizard, that doesn’t mean i know how to look at the camera

rupert the musician on thames