Cultural Observation Blog Post # 5

I believe I have come to adapt very well at Harlaxton. I have learned my way to the my room, shower room, classroom, computer lab, refractory and (after a few more attempts) Professor Benanders room! My Post- England daily ritual included a tight knit routine of waking (waking children), laying out clothes, guiding the children through their routine, eating quickly (oatmeal or two boiled eggs) and finally showering and dressing myself. This has been my life for the last six years and to be honest, I was comfortable with the way interactions between my children and myself transpired. Now, I am living the life of a "traditional college student" (I stay up late, laugh all night and I even went to a bar!!!!!!). I have no worries!
Now as far as the eating and washing habits are concerned I am just not "up to par" with these activities. Let me explain why...In the first place the Showers are located through two doors and at the very end of the hallway. I have only used this facility once since arrival (I know, I'M Nasty)but I'm very conservative and the fact that someone walked in while I was drying my body embarrassed me so much that I have resolved to waking up in the middle of the night and showering when everyone is sleep. If I was to be at home, I typically would shower twice a day and even on a hot day I would possibly fit in a third!
Eating is another challenge (I must overcome)because it I have lost my control. We have to eat at set times and if you miss that set time than you have you can order out or eat snacks. T he food options are limited (I don't eat pork or beef) so I have been eating a salad and vegetables allot. You might think think that I'm actually eating healthy but reader you are mistaken because yesterday I was introduced to the best biscuit (cookie) my mouth has ever had the privilege to devour. So when I miss a meal I load up on "Digestives".
These changes to my bathing and eating have not improved or complicated my life because I am have to accept I am not in control and just get over "The Community Shower".
I can admit I am used to my girls barging in the bath room when I'm showering but I cannot get over the fear that some one will see me naked. I am used to my body and bathing but only in the context of my own apartment. I have to get over this because soon all of my new friends will be forced to shun me for my lack of personal hygiene. I am also so used to eating when ever I want and preparing my own meals that fit in into my funny diet restrictions. On the bright side, I am happy that I don't have to cook everyday. I knew that Harlaxton was to provide us meals but I didn't really think about this concept very much until I arrived to eat out first snack which, included shredded cheese sandwiches and skim milk (lol). I knew then that my version of a snack and theirs was not in sync (although the sandwiches did satisfy my hunger pains).
Overall, I believe that I have adapted well to the rules set forth by the college and actively participated in classroom discussions and assignments but my daily habits are still in a "reorganizing state" which for me will take a little more time to adjust than everyone else. I believe I stand a better chance of bating more often, due to the fact that many students have returned home and I have a better chance of getting in their and out with out much notice.
My entertainment has been getting to know and laugh with all of the young women in my small group. They are all so different but "variety" makes life more interesting! I enjoy hearing them all tell stories about their life's miss-adventures because they are real experiences which are ultimately, more captivating then sitting in front of a television expecting a (t.v.)box to entertain me.