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I suddenly started feeling extremely guilty about the length of time I've left this unattended for so I though I'd catch you up on the relative insanity I call my life.

Half term is swiftly approaching (something I have no complaints about) which means I am well and truly a college student now. As nerdy as it makes me sound, I have to admit I am enjoying it, not least because I finally escaped science. Well, mostly. I started Psychology which although it is based in science, I am finding strangely enjoyable. The other three subjects are all essay based so it is really  rather refreshing.

What else is new?

I finally found myself a job, much to my bank account's relief. It's in the loveliest little gift shop in Cockerton called Happy Days and I love it. There have been no complaints from my parents either, though that may be because the responsibility of card and present buying has now fallen to me. So, if you're ever in the area (unlikely as it is for my American readers) please pop in and say hello.

The travelling has died down somewhat since the summer although I am going to Scotland at the end of the month to visit a much missed friend. Although we will actually be staying in  Dunfermline, we will be spending a day in Edinburgh first. I cannot deny that I'm ridiculously excited even if it is likely to rain the whole time!

My next update will probably be then and with any luck, I should have some more news on the new blog setup. At the moment, it has been put on the backburner until I can find someone with more technical expertise to figure it all out. Who knew it could be so confusing?!

Until then,
Kelly

Home sweet home

Wow.

Life has gotten pretty crazy since I got back to England less than a week ago and I have suddenly found myself thrust back into the hectic lifestyle I call my own. However, after the relative peace and quiet of life in America, I am feeling strangely relaxed. Why strangely? Well, for starters Florida was anything but quiet. There were meals out, day trips to be made and a whole lot of shopping to be done. The less time I had left, the busier I seemed to get.

Some of you may know that I received my GCSE results on the day I flew home. For those of you who didn’t, don’t worry. I got up at 5.30 in the morning after a very late night stressing and then spent the next hour obsessively refreshing my email. It was not a pretty sight. I am, however, extremely pleased about the grades I got which were obtained with a mix of caffeine and adrenaline.

As soon as I had done that, I had to get ready to go home. Although I was organised and ready to go, I can’t say the same for the airline. After promising that very morning that my grandparents could have gate passes, they later claimed that they didn’t do it. Yep, that makes sense. Which is why there will be a letter sent out (particularly since the same thing happened on my way over), suggesting that maybe they need to review the training their staff receive as it is clearly not consistent.

The flight itself was okay, if a little turbulent. The food, as per, was borderline. The woman sat in front of me, however, decided it would be okay to put her seat as far back as possible and then asked me why exactly my knees were digging into the back of her. I’ll give you a clue: I’m 6ft. Cue one very restless, very cramped flight that I got a grand total of two hours sleep during. Fun. Especially since it resulted in the worst jet lag I have ever experienced!

Seeing as how seven to eight hours sleep over a 48 hour period results in an extremely tired teenager, I put off seeing my friends until the next day, which was Saturday. Since then, I don’t think a day has gone by when I haven’t seen at least one of them. It’s nice to know some habits are a lot easier to slip back into than others.

Of course, the days until I start 6th form are slipping away. Preparing for it has taken up a lot more time than I originally thought it would. The worst part is that since I missed Results Day, I haven’t been in touch with the school so in my typical style, I am a little stressed.

The good news is that I may be extending/ collaborating my existing blogs in order to make it easier to find them. Even I have managed to confuse myself when trying to navigate them. I am also working on getting a second writer on board who I have to say, is extremely talented and has a lot to offer. With any luck (and probably a lot of pleading, blackmailing and mild threatening), she should be joining us soon.

At the moment, however, I have several pieces of writing to catch up on and post so for now, this is goodbye.

Until next time,

Kelly

You can take the girl out of England....

I love the beach.

There is something about the feeling of sand beneath your bare feet, the way the water las at your toes. To me, it doesn't matter if its barely above freezing and I'm buried beneath layers of hats, scarves and woolly jumpers. It is one of my favourite places and I never tire of it.

Over here, it's completely different; it's not a bad thing, just different. The beach is crowded with people desperately soaking up the rays. Not only is it acceptable to walk around in swimwear, it's expected. Of course, in Florida the chances of needing a coat on the beach are slim to none.

Yesterday, we drove to the beach for the day and I loved it. I even managed to move from vampire to pale on the tanning scale, something I was beginning to think was impossible. We had a great meal at a Spanish restaurant where I think I may have scared my grandparents with my obsession for tapas. Like I said, I personally had a great day even if I couldn't help missing fish and chips and a good old fashioned 99.

How much?!

Have you ever laughed because something was unbelievably cheesy? This was exactly what I found myself doing last night while at a dinner show in Orlando.

Although the night was a good one, there was definitely room for improvement. The humour, for onecould be seen as a little too juvenile but I have to admit I did find myself laughing at some of the more ridiculous jokes that were cracked.

The other main issue I had was the prices of entry, souvenirs and drinks at the event. Personally I thought the tickets were slightly too expensive for what you get but others may disagree depending on how much they enjoyed the night. However, I'm sure everyone can agree that the cost of drinks within the attraction was too high. When we bought our drinks it was revealed that ONE glass of beer cost more than a crate at the supermarket. I honestly don't know how they get away with it.

On a slightly lighter note, I recently started a writing challenge. For thirty days, I have to write for at least ten minutes everyday based on that day's prompt. I'm currently on the second day and have to say that it is very interesting ( and a little frustrating). If you would like to take a look at my attempts check out http://thirtydaysofmadness.blogspot.com/.

Things have been busy here recently - this last week has been particularly hectic. To begin with, last weekend we went to Seaworld, where we met up with my cousin, her husband and their two year old daughter, who I have to say is unbelievably cute.

Although there are rides available, we decided against them in favour of some of the shows, which all feature some of the sea animals kept on sight. We saw three - 'Blue Horizons', a theatrical masterpiece which stars acrobatic dolphins and exotic birds; 'Clyde and Seamore take Pirate Island' which has a more comedic approach, sealions, an otter and even a charming walrus named Sir Winston and finally, 'One Ocean' starring the world famous whale, Shamu. My only regret was that we didn't get to sit in the splash zone!

Yesterday, I decided to show the office what Afternoon Tea was, much to their confusion, and (I hope) enjoyment. My nana and I prepared scones, with jam and cream, and a good old fashioned pot of tea. Sometimes, the simple things are the best.

I have also been preparing for tonight's 'Zumbathon', two hours of fast paced dancing in order to raise funds for a very good cause. Exercise is not normally something I enjoy but I have to admit the classes are so fun I can't help but smile, despite the fool I must look doing my best to keep up! I'm planning on taking my cameras with me so hopefully there will be plenty of photos for you to see and laugh at.

Until then,

Kelly x

Considering the fact that I have been visiting Florida regularly since my grandparents moved here twelve years ago, it is not often that I don't know what to expect from a park. I have been to most of the local theme park since my first visit all those years ago.

I was not entirely sure what to expect from Epcot, however, since I can't remember the last time I visited. Epcot isn't like the rest of the parks in Florida. The focus is not on adrenaline inducing rides but a more relaxed experience. The main attraction is the "World Showcase", a series of themed zones based on various global attractions such as St Mark's Square in Italy and Versailles. Of course there are rides within these sections they just don't dominate your day; they are paired with fantastic exhibitions, shops and restaurants. Most notably is the beautiful Japanese sector where you can buy real kimonos which I have to say, are stunning.

Unusually, nestled next to the "Circle of Life" attraction is the Disney lab where scientists do their best to solve global food shortages and related problems. I have to admit I was quite shocked. Disney and science is not something you normally put together - who would've thought it?!

Personally, the best bit of the day had to be meeting the characters, namely Alice in Wonderland who proceeded to ask my nana if her hat had been made by a turtle. I don't think I have ever seen her so shocked. Her face was priceless.

The next Picasso?

For those of you who know me, you will be well aware of my 'interesting' art skills. For those of you who don't, count yourself lucky. Art and I have never quite got on. There are so many unacknowledged rules and requirements that I get stressed and abandon it. I do not have the patience to sit for hours on end and not see any change at all. This is not the case for my Nana. For her, it is relaxing. She loves to snatch a few hours with a canvas and watch the painting unfold. And it is good - she seems to have a real talent for it. If you ever get the chance to see one of her paintings, take it.

You can imagine my reluctance when I headed to Orlando to try Painting with a Twist; I did not want to embarrass myself. Luckily, this was not the case. This was a low pressure class where the focus was not on getting it right but having fun. There was a bar on site and as part of their grand opening, drinks were complimentary. There was wines and beers, or sodas for those who didn't want to drink .

Although I admit I was originally quite nervous about it , I did enjoy myself. I still wouldn't class it as relaxing ( I'm too fussy for that) but it was fun. I have to say I am quite proud of my first painting, even if it wasn't the best one of the night! Who knows, maybe this is the start of a new hobby. Watch this space...

Celebrations

I think this has to be a new record for shortest time between blogs but I couldn't wait to tell you why I am not leaving this amazing place. Ever. It all comes down to one thing - celebration. America does not do half- hearted and reluctant. Oh no. They think of the biggest fanfare they can and then do their best to make it even better.

I got my first taste of this on Saturday when we went to Ruth's Chris Steak House to celebrate my nana's birthday. The restaurant had managed to do what many others could not: it was filled with a sophisticated grandeur but retained a friendly atmosphere. Normally, when I go to other 'posh' places, I always feel out of place, like I'm playing pretend. I am glad to say that this was not the case. When they brought out our meals on the silver platter (ok slight exaggeration), they smiled and sprinkled confetti on our table. They even brought us out a birthday cake. Admittedly it was served with truffles but I'm not complaining about that. They even cleaned the car while we ate. I've had my taste of the high life and I do not want to let go.

Last night, I had my first ever experience of Independence Day. It was amazing. The fireworks, the food, the fun. There were craft stalls and bouncy castles and live music and food....the list could go on. Anything you could want, they had, including, rather oddly, a bath fitter. Yeah I don't get it either.

For those of you who know nothing about it, let me fill you in. The Fourth of July is a chance for all Americans from all walks of life to come together and just be happy. They celebrate the independence and freedom they have been given and thank and commemorate those that had to make sacrifices in order for them to get where they are today. For that one day, nobody cares about political or cultural differences, everybody is joined by a sense of patriotism and community.

This was the first time I had experienced these feelings on this scale and I could not help but be overwhelmed by it. It is something we could all learn from. No matter who we are, where we come from or what we believe, there is always an indestructible link to be found. Have you ever noticed that when Christmas comes around we are that little bit nicer to our neighbours? Celebrations are more than just festivities and fireworks, they bring us together and for that one blissful moment we forget our prejudices and hatreds.

I have arrived. I'm back in Florida. The weird thing is that even though I only arrived yesterday it already feels like I've spent days if not weeks here. Prom, which was only three days ago, seems like it happened ages ago. That is not to say it was mediocre or even tedious; personally, I really enjoyed myself and thought it was a lovely way to finish off the year. The only thing I have a complaint about is the food! Although it tasted great, I'm still not sure how the teachers expected us to consume a three course meal in prom dresses - some of which were corseted. Not sure it was the best idea they have ever had. I have to admit that, as per, I spent most of my night dragging people to the dance floor and nattering away but what's new there?

Despite the drama that occurred in Manchester airport - I think the staff were scared into compliance by my mother - the flight itself was great. Sat in one of the new, swanky planes, I spent most of the flight watching all the latest and greatest films on, wait for it, my touch screen television. I was rather impressed. I even managed to eat half of the dinner they brought me, which is a first.

I found myself sat next to the stereotypical English 'mommy's boy'. Although he was lovely and harmless, he seemed to have come straight from a 90's sitcom - he was the type of man who still played on pocket game consoles and got excited by other new technologies. In his forties at the least, he seemed unnaturally excited at the prospect of visiting the "Star Tours" and Harry Potter sections of the local theme parks. He even planned to take a day off work in order to watch all seven of the HP films. The clincher had to be when he told me the first thing he would do when he got off the plane was call his mum, despite having called her before we left to tell her how 'amazing' the airport was.

Seeing as I've only been here a day, I'm going to keep this short but thought I would catch you up while I still had the time. I'm sure the next post will be up soon as I hear tonight's agenda is centered around a meal at a rather fancy restaurant :)

I'm back!

Things have been rather quite on the blog front for a while now I know but it is time to prepare yourself for more misadventures of this jetsetting teen. School is finished and I finally have the time to restart the blog so here goes:

Life in Darlington can be pretty boring with the moments worth writing about occurring all at once when things are at the most hectic. Instead of boring you with all the mundane details, I'll condense it as much as I can.

April meant only one thing: my birthday! After coping with most of my pestering and impatience, my parents revealed that I was lucky enough to spend my 16th in Manchester. Swanky hotels, shopping sprees and gun wielding tram riders ( yes, you read that right!) - it was definitely a weekend I won't be quick to forget. Sounds pretty sweet, right? Well I'm glad to say it got even better. You've probably heard me ramble and occassionally moan about the ramshackle group I call my friends but this time they really outdid themselves. Not only did we complete THE LIST - a series of 16 challenges that had to be completed before the youngest, which is me, turned 16 -but they stressed themselves to the point of insanity organising a super (secret) sweet 16! I would post pictures if it wasn't for the fact that I have been told my surprised face wasn't particularly flattering, although apart from that I can find no fault in it.

I have to admit that May was a pretty boring month filled with revision and the ever dreaded GCSE's. Luckily, I seem to have the blocked the stress fuelled time from my mind, which is probably for the best,

For all May's repetitive boredom, June has been (and still is) a month of goodbyes. My last exam, and subsequent day in school was the tenth and my locker was cleared not long after that. The oh-so-flattering uniform has been removed from my wardrobe and replaced with a leavers hoodie. my days have crammed with cups of tea and a good old fashioned natter in preparation for the 'summer of seperation' as I have so lovingly dubbed it.We get a last goodbye - which I'm refusing to make - towards the end of the month. It is that occasion when girls desperately try to out do each other and guys are forced into the suit that was stuffed out of sight years ago. I am of course talking about prom. Essentially, it is our last night altogether, but I'm looking forward to the cheesy dancing only a proper English disco can bring. Even so, I'm pretty sure there may be a few tears. After all, we're all grown up and heading in different directions. For some, it is simply a different school while others are heading as far afield as Scotland - its a whole different country you know! Though my college is a mere ten minutes away, I'm heading somewhere far more exotic for my holidays.

For those of you who are reading this from America, it is time to book your vacation for I am on my way! that's right, I'm heading back to Florida. Unfortunately, this year it will not be all sunshine and shopping as I've got myself my first job. I'll spend my summer as an office junior- how mature?! I'm honing my business face this very second.

It feels good to be dusting off my 'jetsetting' gear even if this year's preparation will be a little rushed. After all, I have induction days and prom to get through first. Luckily for me, Virgin Atlantic has been nothing but helpful. Since they learned this would be my first time flying solo, they have gone out of their way to make it as easy as possible. They've organised gate passes for my parents and even called to remind me that I needed to sort out my passport and Esta, whatever that is!

The countdown has begun. With any luck, I might even tan!

It's been a pretty stressful time here recently. There's been colleges to pick, coursework to redraft and, of course, the ever present dramas of being a teenager. Perhaps then, that is why it was such a relief to simply pack up and go this half term.

Before you get excited (or jealous), I wasn't exactly headed anywhere exotic. After four hours on a train, I arrived in the glamorous Luton. For those of you that don't know, Luton is more famous for its airport, which featured in a TV show detailing the daily problems facing airport staff, than white sandy beaches and celebrities. It is, however, home to my grandparents.

Although my friends seemed surprised to hear it, I did manage to make it to London by myself without getting lost or as my- so -called - best friend suggested, finding myself in Glasgow.

It was, as they say, a flying visit. For three days, I found myself 'forgetting' all about the essay that needed redrafting, and watching the finest daytime television had to offer. In between episodes of Loose Women, I did manage a visit to Broadstairs and Canterbury. Broadstairs, a picturesque beach town that Charles Dickens' chose as his workplace,provided ample photo opportunity and the chance for what had to be the unhealthiest and consequently most delicious hot chocolate I had ever had.

It wasn't until we reached Canterbury that I seriously considered staying down south for the foreseeable future however.It is home to the curious mix of historical architecture and the modern businesses only a university town can offer. Add a selection of my favourite high street shops into the equation and I will happily move there tomorrow.

All too soon, I was forced to return to the world of Macbeth, equations and ridiculously complicated chemistry homework. At least, there was a little less stress ( and a new handbag) in my life after my exotic holiday.