sniff, cough, HI

I apologize for the gap in Blogs. Generally this means I have been busy or travelling. Sadly, this gap is due only to one nasty flu virus that has settled into my life. Today is day 5 of the illness and I am beginning to go SUPER stir crazy as I haven't left the house, or even my PJs, since Saturday. On a brighter note, I am feeling better and am hoping that today is my gift day (meaning my gift to myself) on last day to relax so that flu doesn't come back again in a day or two. I am desperate to get life going again and to remember what it feels like to breath outta my nose!

Before I knew that I would be cooped up in bed for a few days, I went to see a pretty good film. I love the cinema, the big screen, the smell (and lets be honest, the greasy buttery taste) of theater popcorn that no matter what, you can't achieve at home. After the walk down, the burning in my chest finally wore off by the end of the previews, and I felt like I would fall asleep. Determined to get my £3.50 worth, I struggled to stay awake. We went to see 'The Pursuit of Happiness' with Will Smith. I think it has come and gone in cinemas there, probably with little praise. My roommate said she was disappointed in it, and while there were times where it was slow, overall I am grateful that I saw it. The film is based on the true story of a man who is faced with poverty. It shows the struggles and small triumphs as he goes from his own home to a line around the block each night for a bed at a shelter. As I watched, I thought of my friend Emma in Tanzania telling me that her friends there don't believe that there are poor people in America. This film gives one a face, a name, and a story. And I liked that.

Alison just told me there is talk of a blizzard. Now, I am sure a blizzard these days in Belfast means an inch or two, but it has been the coldest week since we have been here (Luckily, I haven't been outside since Saturday...) But it would be nice to see some snow!

As for being sick, I have had so many offers to bring me anything I could ever need, from tons of people including a woman I was to meet with about a new volunteer placement whom I have never met. I have been so grateful and so wonderfully surprised by how nice everyone has been. So momma, don't worry I am in good hands...

Now, for some more sad news. Today, is one of my most favorite days in the world. One of two each winter. A day that I am very sad to say that I no longer live in North Carolina. Today is Carolina Dook match-up #1 of the season. I am still filled with that nervous/excited feeling, despite being forever miles away and the game doesn't come on til 2am here. (Maybe its just flu symptoms?!?) Even though it doesn't need to be said... GOOO HEELS.

alright, really I don't have much to say after hangin out sick for the past few days. so I will leave you be.