Karoline vs. Aberdeen

An anti-climax

2009-10-22T14:38:00.002+01:00

I haven't updated my blog in months, and I wouldn't hold my breath for the next post either. I just figured today is worth a few sentences.

It has been just over a year since I came here to Aberdeen, without really knowing what I was getting myself into. It's been a year with laugther and tears; there's been times I've breezed through it and times where I've been close to breaking down and quitting. I've pulled through though, and yesterday at 3pm it was finally clear:

I'm a MASTER.

"MSc Forensic Science" is from this day on my new title.

It's a great feeling (well, to be honest, I've felt better. Last nights celebrations took off. Ha Ha), but at the same time it's such an anti-climax. Here we are, after working so hard for the last year, and all we get is our names printed on a list. Is that all? Well, as Greg just said to me "just wait until you get your first paycheck. THEN you'll know you passed your master's".

Which brings me on to the next matter:S As of today, I'm not really a student anymore..... I'm JUST UNEMPLOYED........................ *cryyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy*

oh well... doesn't matter.

I'm still A MASTER ;D

A "cliché-feeling" about the future

2009-05-24T18:43:00.005+01:00

I take a bite of my crispy bread and look out the window. When ever I've heard the term "ghost town" I've always imagined one of those old western cowboy-towns with a saloon. Where there are bars covering the windows, shadows luring in every creek and corner and the only sound that can be heard is the wind playing with an open door. Today I realise that Woolmanhill is all that. It's like everyone has dropped what ever they were doing and just left.

As I take a look around me, I remember that I am one of those also. Most of my things are in bags and boxes, and the room looks not so different from what it did that late evening 9 months ago when I first saw it. The flat is quiet, as if it is tired from keeping an eye out for us. I'm not sad, nor am I exited. Just numb in a way. Full of acceptance of the fact that things never last, yet with a child-like whish that we could all go back to what it was like just a few months ago.

It's weird how much an impact other people can make in your life. How used you can get to having someone around. And even though we know we'll always keep in touch, saying good bye is hard. Maybe it's because we suddenly are to carry on with our seperate lifes, knowing that we've all shared everything and given each other so much, despite different cultures, religions, languages and origins. Suddenly you're on your own, scared that you won't be remembered in a way.

But this is not the end. It doesn't stop here, not for me anyway. As I move all my stuff down 5 floors and back up a different 4, I intend on doing it all over again. The new flat seems quiet just like the old one, but with a feeling of expectations this time, almost as if it knows something new is about to start.

It'll work out, you know. We are not alone on this road. Somewhere someone is waiting for us to make a difference in their life, to create new and good memories together. One day you will cherish them as I do. Life is only what we make it, so keep unlocking new doors. You never know what you'll find...

Thieves in the night!

2009-04-14T09:17:00.003+01:00

I woke up last night from loud laughther, guys talking, doors opening/closing (our kitchen door desperately needs some oil...) and not to mention a lot of weird sounds. I then realised that daylight was sieving down from behind my curtain, and when I looked at my watch it turned out to be 6.40am!!! Just as I was about to get out of bed to see what Matt (yes, I heard you:p) and at least one of his mates (I have a feeling it might be Denis..) the sounds stopped and our flat was dead silent once more. I quickly fell asleep again, as my alarm was to go off in little more then 1 hour.

This morning when I entered the kitchen to get some breakfast, I stopped in the door and looked around. Something was different. VERY different.

For those of you who might still not have coped on.. there's normally TWO of those sofas...

Due to the night's events, I quickly got a strong feeling that room 18B was a good place to start my little detective work, and I therefore felt it unecessary to carry out any fingerprinting:p Matts door happened to be unlocked, and I just couldn't help myself as to have a peak inside with my camera...

And wasn't I right:p Can't really see WHO's sleeping there, but I'll find out and let you know;)

In the meantime... Operation Missing Sofa COMPLETE!

Have a good day everyone xx

A Photo Collection!

2009-04-05T23:02:00.002+01:00

So... this must be the longest post ever, consisting mainly of photos. The thing is, they're in a reversed order! So what you should actually do, is start at the bottom and go up. You've been informed:p

Found my keys!

...and the back.

The final result (front)...

My new look?

Oh, I can see a curl;)

I recently bought a hair-curler... So Betty got to have her way with my hair:S It was SO painful, but worth it!

Haha... well... no comment.

Hm... that photo doesn't want to stand upstraight. But you can turn your head to the left, right? Anyway... Betty, Matt and I had a nice dinner one day. With a salmon dish.. and chocolate-trifle for desert.

Cute wannabe-indians? ;)

I look a bit scared...must be the photographer:p

Can't remember exactly what was going on here, but Alessio is obviously present........

DJ Betty and .. toiletpaper-holder Alessio?

Strike a pose.... (not too pretty, let's blame it on the pancakes..)

Martijn and Remi

Martijn brought his own nutella..

Another photo that should be turned around..

Alessio had a private moment with his pancake;D

Alessio's Nutella with pancake!!

Betty the pancake-master!!

Greg in a ray of light!

Hazel just before our Court-hearing on the 20th. Waiting can be as bad as torture!

Hmm.. no comment. Let's just say this shouldn't be done in real investigations:p

Hazel and I spent a weekend putting together our casefile. There is a system in it all, I promise!

Curly-perly;)

Our garden outside my window, with rhododendron!

Our kitchen garden.. (IN the kitchen)

Shit happens!!!!!!!!!

Denis! (our 2nd musketeer, and member of Les Garçons)

Hm... I suddenly realised that it couldn't have been me who took this photo:/

Haha.. my view from my room one day while studying.

Betty "studying" on my bed...

Not everyone has handsome guys walking around in black suits;D

Oh my... This photo was taken the morning of my exam (which started at 2pm). I think there was a system somewhere.

Rob always keeps his shirts tidy!

Matt cooking.

Betty posing in her new "indian trousers".

Amriiiit<3

Well... I added a small caption on each photo, but if there's anything I left out you'll just have to ask!

Now if you'll excuse me, I have a project-plan to write for tomorrow:S

Touchè...

2009-03-29T19:46:00.003+01:00

After a longer discussion at the cinema regarding WHY my cup had a more fancy writing than Benjamin's, I tried ending the conversation with a diplomatic and satifying answer; saying that fortunately, our drinks tasted the same no matter the design of the cup.

To which the 10'year old by my side took a few seconds to think and then replied: "Ehm, how? 'Cause you have Sprite and I have Fanta!!!"

xD

PIZZA di PEPE

2009-03-28T18:32:00.003Z

"Gourment Organic Pizzas: What on earth"

"GM Crops. For a while, we were thinking what's a big motor company doing growing vegetables? Then Alfonso, our farmer friend from Italy enlightened us. As we don't want to see three billed ducks waddling around, we use ingredients that are 100% GM free and as organic as possible. That said... If a certain motor company wanted to invest in a little pizza company and organic veggies, our number is 0207 7204410."

"To cook, get rid of all the packaging and place in your pre-heated oven at 200*C for between 8-12 minutes, that's 8-12 minutes to ponder important things, get the salad ready, feed the cat or hunt for the remote control."

Enjoy:D
www.whatonearth.co.uk

Alessio vs. Rihanna

2009-03-25T16:45:00.003Z

I am proud (...) to present to you: Alessio Domenico Panzica.

Remember me when you get famous, Alessio. After all, it all started..in my bed...?:p (i know what you're all thinking.. but i ment literarly. Check out the video!!)

Then again... maybe don't mention me too much afterall:s No Offence........

Why, what and where?

2009-03-22T15:06:00.002Z

As serious students we often have interesting, academic and political correct discussions when drinking tea. Two of the questions we keep coming back to (at least our irish does..) are these:

1. Have you ever seen a baby pigeon? No you haven't. Tell me where the babies are!! Are they like those £1 gloves at Primark : 1 size only? But how does an adult sized baby fit inside the egg... They simply don't exist. If you've ever seen a smaller sized pigeon, you either need glasses or it was a dwarf-pigeon. WHERE ARE THE F* BABY PIGEONS???

2. Where do all the birds go to die??? Seriously... you might have seen a couple hit by cars or taken by other animals... But think about it. There are a LOT of birds. Aberdeen has got 5 seaguls per human, or something like that... WHERE DO THEY ALL GO TO DIE? Is there some sort of bird-retirehome we don't know about? With a private bird-cemetary? Or do they just fall into the sea. And if they do, how do they know when to be above the sea since they are about to die? Is that a death-instinct or are they suicidal? or even kamikaaze-birds?

(hey, I did not create the questions....)

You have no idea about the extent these discussions of ours can reach. There are always new points of view to consider, and always new questions to be answered. And there is always, ALWAYS an excuse to have a good cup'a tea;)

Internal Quality Control

2009-03-19T01:02:00.004Z

Haha, check out this one.. I stole it from one of the labs in Norway where I used to work, and translated it into english.

Nite xx

Happy St. Patrick's day!

2009-03-18T13:58:00.004Z

Yesterday was Patty's day, the Irish "national day". Everyone was wearing green, funny hats and clovers are accepted, and the phrase "my lepricorn told me to do it" was spotted on a certain irish guys clover-filled t-shirt.

Even funnier was it that all the pubs and clubs were playing irish music and for once the amerature riverdance that most of us only try in private just had to be tried in public.

As most others, I spent the evening in an irish pub (after mailing craig my witness-report, only 5 hours late..) and attending brass-rehearsal in Westhill) with my mates. And even though I normally don't drink beer, it's kind of mandatory on such a day. So there I was.. a norwegian girl in Scotland, serounded by crowds of wanna-be irishs, wearing my silly hat and drinking Guinnes (at least I had some sips of it..), singing along on the riverdance songs. Good fun, good fun.

Matt aka. The Clover:)

Matt and Denis had a great night;)

Hazel, my partner in crime:D

Luca.. WHAT are you doing?

Haha, and then you have me, "pretending" to like the Guiness... I failed.

Now, while most of us only had that ONE beer, and went home at midnight, the true irishs started the real celebrations. Nae celebration tis mornin tho, eh Rob?? ;);)

Spot the BLUNDER 2!!

2009-03-17T02:09:00.002Z

It's getting late, and I'm still working on my witness report for tomorrow. And as most students would know, something to eat while studying is never a bad thing. I had just finished my 3rd chocolate filled bun, when I happened to glimse at the packaging. After working with our casefile for the last weeks, I have developed an eye for dates.. so, what can I say... Can you spot the blunder?

Spot the BLUNDER;)

2009-03-09T01:29:00.002Z

Haha, this is another one of those "too good to let go"-moments.

Rob came home one day, all exited cause their Gaelic Footballteam had finally gotten their sportgear. There was only ONE problem.
Can you tell what it is???

(I'll give you a hint... Rob is Irish.. and plays Irish Gaelic Football.....)

What's on my camera?

2009-03-09T00:47:00.009Z

At the end of each month, I normally empty out my memorycard, and try to go through the photos. February didn't have too many, but here are a handful for you to see.

When Betty is sick of studyin in her own room, I let her use mine!

Miss Norway 2009?

During one of our study-sessions, I happened to glance over at Betty... and saw this. Just had to be caught on tape! <3

One evening when we were sitting in the kitchen, Matt came strolling in, acting like normal. Thankfully, I had my camera near by! Priceless!!! (let me reassure you, he was going to a "dress however you like"-party... this is not his everyday-wear...)

After Matt twisted his ancle, Rob and I had some fun with his crotches... As a fysiotherapist-student, Rob showed me the "correct technique", even with the "white-sock-effect". Haha!

Roomparties in 18F are not unusual...

Opening bottles of wine is not always as easy as it looks. Could this be an irish thing?

Big'Dave in a happy mood!

Last weekend I had Alessio over for Sunday-dinner. My chicken-stu was quickly approved by the all-eating Italian;)

Unfortunately, I don't have any photos of Alessio laying on the sofa "helping" out with the cooking, but at least he finished his Cranberry juice. (Later, he told me he's allergic to cranberries, but that he would live. Uhm, better late than sorry?)

Strike a pose:)

Friday we had a charity-arrangement with the BrassBand. We did horse-racing, and my horse Krazy Karoline came 3rd (out of 5..). Spinning the barrel that pulled the wooden horses wasn't the easiest thing I've done. As the photo shows, I fought hard!

Not as hard as others though, who actually had to shed some blod:O

Almighty had fun playing with my camera....

...but wasn't too thrilled to have his own photo taken.

Sorry to say I don't have any photos of us doing the race:(

Right, that's most of February and a sneak-preview of March. The rest of my life mainly consists of studying, which really isn't all that exiting. So I'll spare you for any photos of that:D

Cute, Cuter, Cutest

2009-03-08T00:12:00.003Z

I don't care if you're a 8-year old girl with pink butterflies in your hair, or if you're a strong, macho man who carries a gun. These photos will make you smile anyway!

"Me?"

Look at these two last ones... I'm speachless! Me want:)

The Norwegian Goverment's Seamen Service

2009-02-22T21:10:00.008Z

As most Sundays, I spend my evening at the "sailor's office" as I've started calling it, also known as Velferden. Today has been an extreamly busy day, with 21 people stopping by. And for the first time since I started working here, the coffee-can has been emptied!

Last Sunday no one were in, so I took the chance to take some photos for you to see.

The office, where I spend much of the time surfing the web...

The rest of the time I spend laying on the sofa watching tv...

Or, just maybe, I'll play some pool. By myself. And somehow I still loose...?

At the back you can see all the magazines and newspapers from all over Norway.

Anyone can borrow books from our "library" onto the boats.

We also have a small kitchen, with the most important thing of all. NORSK KAFFITRAKTER<3

Welcome!

Random pictures from Aberdeen...

2009-02-17T23:23:00.018Z

William, my little sweeeetie... And he smiles everytime I pick up the camera!

Starbucks; where we often go to drink coffee, chill out or study. Here with Amrit.

I know you've probably seen this one before, but I'm still showing it again. KIND'A COOL, huh?

We had a plant. During christmas most of it died:(

Me and the irish at Big'Dave's valentines/birthday-flatparty (see videos at the end...)

Me and Bettyyyyy

Betty, some guy, and littl'Dave. Now, I know this is a staged photo, but are you even old enough to HOLD that bottle of wine, Dave?

Greg the multi-task-man. Not everyone can drink beer, hug a girl AND tie his shoe at the same time. Almost impressed!

Ben KICKING MY A**E in Risk - The World Conquerer

Betty and Greg. Bestfriends for life:)

Hazel preparing for Forensic Examination. Even bleeching tables requires some skill!!

Me after fingerprinting all day... Clean as always! Oh, and did I mention that i wore a mask while dusting??

My two suitcases are never far off... So be aware;)

Amrit having a footbath;)

Sexy Betty at Amrits Valentine's-party!!

Another photo of me and Betty. Aren't we cute?

And another one of me and Rob, trying to put his thumb in my mouth? (I might need backing up on this one!! ;)

Suicide-bunny and Pinky-Cash at the nightstand.

Half of the Dutch-mafia...

Mickey Mascot:D

Well, well... Those were a few glimpses into our thrilling (...) life here in Aberdeen. To finish off this post, I'd like to show you two videos I just "happened" to get a hold of;) Enjoy!

Big'Dave dancing Riverdance.... those irish, what can I say? (Unfortunately, I had the IQ to turn this clip 90'degrees around... :)

OBS! Some in-appropriate language in this next one!

And Big'Dave anouncing all the Februar-birthdays in the room (my apologies for him not being 100% sober), INCLUDIG Betty's, who we ended up singing to. Me and Betty (and Rob?) found it extreamly funny, as Betty's real birthday happens to be 5th of October...

So, Happy Birthday to ALL OF YOU!!!

Hairy Dreams of Horror!

2009-02-11T10:00:00.003Z

I had a bad dream last night. Not a nightmare (which I rarely have), but more like those dreams where you wake up with a sick feeling and it takes a while to realise that it was nothing more than a dream.

Because of my Hyperthyroidism (Grave's Disease) I could loose a lot of hair, and last night I dreamt that when brushing my hair a big CHUNCK came of, leaving a bold area. When I had a closer look, I had lots of those small areas, and lots of small black and red spots all over my scalp. Not a beautiful sight I'll tell you. Crying, I ran in to my doctor, who was shocked on my behalf and started giving me a headmassage to help ease the pain (which I don't think I had...). I didn't stop him, though! I might have had bald patches all over my head, but my doctor was still no other than George Clooney....

Babysitting

2009-02-09T00:57:00.005Z

I've been babysitting all weekend (48-hours job), and was planning to write a few sentences about it. BUT, it's late and I have to wake up early... so until then, here's a little videoclip for you to enjoy... (May I say, only the first 30seconds are worth watching, as the rest is too boring. But because it's a MPEG-4 file, I couldn't open it to edit/shorten it. I'll get in done soon, though.

Nite xxx

Chaos in the snow

2009-02-06T15:24:00.005Z

I had just started analysing the suspect's jumper when I was told to pack up, and evacuate the building asap. Turns out they decided to close the university at 3pm, to make sure everyone gets home before nightfall. I looked from my teacher and out the window, where I could see a couple of snowflakes falling. Why? i asked...

You see, WINTERTYRES is an unknown fenonema. So is CHAINS... Put a thin (5cm) layer of snow everywhere, and cars, buses, trains and flights stops. It's chaos. Pathetic:p

Don't look at the snowflakes, they look bigger on the picture. Instead, look at the AMOUNT of snow. Woooow.. HOW MUCH! Not.. :p

For those of you who wants to see some more... check this out:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/7872853.stm

p.s. notice how the text underneath the video says "Heavy snow..."

Kake-rusk

2009-02-05T14:50:00.002Z

I don't really know what to say...
Other than "Sorry Amrit, but this is TOO funny to let go!!. Your indian cakes are SOO delicious though, but you can't blame me for being skeptical at first..."
LoL xD

Let it snow, let it snow

2009-02-04T13:28:00.004Z

I know it's a bit early to start thinking about Christmas once again. We still felt a bit "christmassy" though, when we walked to the shop singing "let it snow, let it snow". I'm telling you, a couple of wet snowflakes can turn anyone into a child...

A Lonely Heartbeat

2009-02-02T17:49:00.005Z

Mondays are usually spent in the Forensic Laboratories, where Hazel and I work on our case. Since there is only two of us doing the MSc, we're often put in with the 3rd and 4th years of BSc (a rather noisy class..). None of us really mind, but it's still nice when you sometimes happen to be in the lab all alone and can think and focus in silence. Which is just what happened today....

I was in the photography lab, taking photos of two ESLA-shoeprints we recovered from the Crime Scene. No one else was using the lab, which suited me just fine since the ESLA-photos need to be taken with the lights off. Only two small lamps lit up the prints, and I LOVED it. All alone, totally focused, getting to work on my own, eager to find some characteristic pattern in the prints that could tie us to the suspects shoes. In the middle of all the strict evidence-paperwork and safety, I completely forgot that it was all a game. That there hadn't actually been a murder. To me it was real. To me the murderer was still out there, dreading that I would find that little clue left behind that would have him convicted. With the murder-weapon safely packed away, and all fingerprints scanned onto our database, I felt closer than ever.

That's when I heard it.
A weak sound.

thumTHUM ... thumTHUM ... thumTHUM ... thumTHUM ...

Continously, in a steady beat. A heartbeat. From somewhere inside that room where I had been alone for the last hour. I had no idea how long it had been going on, or what made me aware of it. Not until then could I feel someone watching me. Waiting. For a moment I checked my own pulse, to see if it was playing tricks on me. But it came from further down the room. From the shadow. I managed to resist running back to the mainlab, leaving all evidence behind, and struggled with the lamp-remotecontrol. The light made me brave, and instead I walked towards the sound, listening. Sensing.

Now, those of you who know me well, know that I'm not too fond of hearts and heartbeats. And even as steady as this one sounded, I kept expecting it to stop any moment. I'm not sure if "relieved" is the best word to describe it, but at least I could relax a bit when I discovered that the beat came from inside the big Infrared Detector connected to one of the microscopes. Phew... At least there wasn't any run-away psyko lurking in the corners. Funny what a lively imagination can do to you:)

Back here in the flat I can't help wonder though, if that machine is ment to have a heartbeat. I guess I'll never know what I'd found if I'd had a look inside.......

A Birthday Wish

2009-01-30T23:30:00.005Z

Yea, yea, I know it's still 9 months till my birthday... But, just to be kind and let you know well in advance.. When the time comes; THIS IS WHAT I WANT:

Cleansing Newsflash...

2009-01-26T21:42:00.002Z

Here's a newsflash for you..
You know you've successfully fixed the hoover when your carpet suddenly changes colour!!
Mine turned out to be red, not grey :O

*Illustasjonsfoto*

Bad timing on Facebook

2009-01-25T00:25:00.002Z

Facebook pretty much rules my life. Not in a bad way, though, I like to think I'm in control of my own life... It is however a magnificent place to keep in touch with friends and family, and maybe even start a few new ones;) Anyway, let's not get carried away here.

What I wanted to share with you guys is Facebook's interpretation of time as we know it. We live in "the now", we finished "the past" and we wait for "the future". It is therefor NOT possible to do something in the future now. Once it is done, it has moved on to the past. Confused?

I realised this when I just a while ago wrote something on someones wall. As all users of Facebook know, when your comment has been posted there first is a "Date," and then a sentence saying i.e. "Karoline wrote at 12.33am". Only problem is, it said "Tomorrow: Karoline wrote at 12.33am".

1. WHAT? How do you know what I will do tomorrow? It's not like Facebook can predict fate?

2. Back to what I said earlier about past and future. After posting it, I had already written it. As far as I know, today is today and not tomorrow. It almost felt like traveling back in time... (at least that's what I think it must feel like)

I know, I know.. chances are you lost me halfway through the second paragraph. Unless you study psycology or watch "Big Bang Theory" every night, you probably think I need professional help. But hey, don't blame me, blame Facebook. It needs a lesson on time!

P.S.
After writing this, I went back into Facebook just to double check. Somewhere in between it must have heard me thinking, cause "Tomorrow" had been changed til "Today". Phew. At least Facebook and I have that in common: better late than never;)

Nite xx

C.S.I.

2009-01-23T14:17:00.004Z

I promised you an update... and here it is:

We arrived at the crime scene at 09.30am, where there had been a drug-related murder. That means stabbed body on the floor. Surprisingly little blood on the floor after bleeding to death though, even though the knife was ENORMOUS! Had to ask for the biggest evidence box.. and even that didn't fit!
We swetted, we stressed, we fingerprinted and photographed, we bagged and we filled in forms, and I even had to chase of two intruders who suddenly stood in the middle of the room and wanted to know what was happening (let me just say, my dear lab-teachers John and Kirsten are NOT my favourites any more:( that was mean!! but they were questioned and photographed and wandered happily away after a while.) When we took down the "Do-not-cross"-corden, we knew there were so much more we should have gotten done, but what else can you do when your Chief Inspecter commands you to shut down cause he wants to go for lunch...

Conclusion: we had a blast, and considering it was the very first time we have investigated a crime scene, racing against the clock as well, I think we did good. But BOY do those fibers that we had to leave behind enoy me...

Oh yeah, one more advice... When wearing an investigation suit.. wear as little as possible underneath. I almost turned into a pond in there... Gasping for air behind that icky mask:p

P.S. I Love You

2009-01-21T22:16:00.010Z

I have finally managed to sit down and watch this beautiful film all the way through; this film that touches me so deeply that I have only seen bits and pieces earlier.

It makes me smile, it makes me cry, it makes me laugh and it makes me hurt inside. No, not only because of Gerard Butler, and the fact that I might be a little jealous of Hilary Swank (okey, fine.. VERY jealous), but because it (also) shows how fragile we are and how little we know of tomorrow. Even though memories and contemplation are necessary, we still need to gather our inner strength to keep life going.

Recomended!
(so is bringing a tissue...)

And I Quote...

2009-01-20T22:38:00.003Z

My list of Quotes (somewhere on the right) has been updated with not only one, but TWO quotes. They belong to Isabell and easyJet airlines. Check it out!!

Goodbye oh, gruesome semester ...

2009-01-16T17:42:00.017Z

Laughter. Wild, with a bit of sarcasm in it. It has been surpressed for so long it's almost hard to let go. With it goes all the frustration and dispare that has been building up for the last weeks. No, the last months. That constant ache and pressure in my head feels weaker somehow. Almost as if "it" is exhausted as well; feeling sympathic for my tired, yet faithful eyes. In a while some time will be needed to sort all these thoughts out. Seperate reality from imagination. Chromatography from Spectroscopy. Different types of lenses and microscopes. Reagents and calculations. Precision, accuracy and quality controls. Those small functions in a dataprogram that makes everything so much easier. It's all to be processed, categoriesed and stored for a later occasion, so that my head won't feel as crowded. In a while, though. Soon. Not yet. First I need some time to let it all sink in. Accept the fact that I don't have to feel guilty anymore. For watching a film. For talking to friends. For sleeping. Accept the fact that I survived this first semester. Accept my choices and decisions. My past and future. Laughter. Blessed this time. Ready to start anew.

Separation Coursework: FORENSICS

2009-01-12T00:13:00.004Z

The estimation of chronological age in cadavers, human remains and in living human beings can be established using chromatographic techniques. These methods are based on the age dependent non-enzymatic changes of L-form aminoacids to D-form aminoacids, mainly aspartic acid, and are among the most reliable and accurate methods to date.

You have been provided with a published paper "Racemization of aspartic acid from human dentin in the estimation of chronological age".

Imagine you are going to use this paper as the basis for similar work which may be carried out in your laboratory on approximately 500 human remains recovered many months after a natural disaster.

Three laboratories, including yours, have been given the opportunity of obtaining a grant to do this. In an effort to convince the financing board that your laboratory should be the one awarded the grand you should provide a technical report which:

provides a detailed summary of the chromatographic technique that has been used
stipulates how many and which teeth are required

states the approximate cost of the equipment, standards and running materials

indicates the cost, skill and number of personnel required

describes and critically evaluates the procedures you would follow to achieve the most accurate and precise data.

Please bear in mind that you are trying to convince a financing board that you know what you are doing and that you will be able to carry out the work fullly withing the budget that you ask for.

GOOD LUCK TO ME!!!! :S:S:S:S:S

Happy New Year:D

2009-01-10T01:56:00.003Z

It's been a while since I last wrote something... Some exams have passed, and some are still to come. I've been a trip down to London to see Danny and Sevda, and I've been at home in Norway for Christmas. I'll tell you all about it, and even include som photos, just let me finish this next week:S

So before going to bed, I just want to share a ... story/joke (in norwegian) with you.. A conversation between God and Eva that has been confidential, until recently;)

Eva henvendte seg til Gud og sa: Jeg har et problem!
Gud ser på henne og spør hva det gjelder.
"Kjære Gud, jeg vet at du har gitt meg alt jeg har bruk for. Denne vidunderlige hagen, fylt med vakre dyr, selv den komiske slangen. Men jeg er fremdeles ikke helt fornøyd, det er som om noe mangler. Jeg føler meg ensom, og dessuten er jeg drittlei av å spise epler hele tiden..."
Gud ser på Eva og sier "Greit, jeg har en løsning på problemet dit. Jeg skaper en mann til deg!"
"En mann, hva er det?" spør Eva.
"En ufullkommen skapning, med mange feil og dårlige vaner. Han kommer til å lyve for deg, overdrive og skryte. Han vil være tåpelig og oppføre seg som et barn. Han vil være større enn deg og han elsker å sloss, jage og slå ihjel! Han kommer ikke til å være særlig klok, så han vil få bruk for dine råd, for å kunne gjøre ting riktig. Han vil komme til å ha en meget begrenset følelsemessig grense og han vil trenge å bli trent opp. Dessuten vil han se dum ut når han våkner om morgenen. Men siden du nå først har klaget, så skal jeg skape han på en slik måte at han kan tilfredsstille dine fysiske behov, og du vil nok aldri mer kjede deg igjen;)"
"Det høres jo fint ut" svarte Eva.
"Men der er en liten ting til, fortsetter Gud, Du kan kun få ham på EN betingelse" "Og hva er så det?" spør Eva.
"Jo, han kommer til å være arrogant og selvglad, så du blir nok nødt til å la ham tro at jeg skapte ham først!!! Og så kan det være min og din lille hemmelighet....du vet.. oss kvinner imellom:D"

Nite xxx

Våkenatt

2008-12-11T01:19:00.006Z

It's late... a large amount of coffee, water and whatever i can find in our cupboards are helping me stay awake. Turns out, I really need to do some revising... I have an exam tomorrow from 2-5pm, and let's just say I thought I knew it all.. HAH.. think again!

But I'm getting there, and at least I won't panic quite as much tomorrow:p It's actually quiet everywhere and that's RARE here at Woolmanhill. Probably won't last for long.. never does.

Nite xxx

Two tomatoes....

2008-12-10T20:55:00.002Z

You know that joke about the tomatoes? In norwegian it goes like this:
"To tomater gikk over en vei, å så ble den ene overkjørt. Den andre snudde seg og sa, kom igjen ketchup!" HAHA... did you get it? sqeezed tomato? --> ketchup? yeah yeah... it's funny when you're 10.

BUT!! here's the thing. You didn't get it! I didn't either, until resently. Cause the main point gets lost in the translation... you need to LISTEN to the pronounciation...

"Two tomatoes crossed a road, when one on them was hit by a car. The other one turned around and said, Come on.. Catch up!"

LoL...

If you ever owned a cat...

2008-12-09T18:09:00.002Z

I spent most of the day in the Silent Studyhall at St.Andrews, and as i got more and more aware of how much I actually have left on my coursework, i got more and more depressed. It turned into one of those days when you just want to go "screw this, I quit". Being homesick and ready for christmas didn't help.

Then, my very fondly appriciated and beloved friend Vidar came online. Gave me cheerful hugs and prayers, and showed me this.... what can i say? He made my day..

Ofcourse... I spent 10min giggeling in the SILENT studyhall, but at least I'm still a student:D

THAAAAAAANK YOU <3

MOJO

2008-12-08T00:56:00.002Z

(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)(A)

Share my pain!

2008-12-06T13:53:00.005Z

Woke up this morning looking like this:

I won't tell you the whole story behind it all, but it's got something to do with high heals and getting out of cars.. haha. .

Let's just say that I've been officially BRUISED... (A)

Dressed in white...

2008-12-04T18:34:00.004Z

If you know me, then you know that white and I don't go very well together. Somehow, I never manage to stay clean for very long... So I suppose it's a bit ironic that I've chosen a profession where white seems to be "in".

In 4 years, I've gone from wearing this:

To this:

I've even tried these to:

(okey, I haven't had a stetoscope around my neck, but I have worn the green clothes in surgery)

And now, just when you think that things can't get much more whiter, I LOOK LIKE THIS:

Bright n' white, if I may say so myself.

Christmas Tree

2008-12-02T09:54:00.002Z

This Sunday, being the first Sunday in Advent, the lights on the Norwegian Tree was lit at Castle Gate. Starting with a small service, we heard christmas readings from the Bible in Norwegian, Scottish and Gaælic! The Salvation Army played, we sang charols and after the lights were lit (may I say TWICE..) marsipan-pigs were handed out. Put me in the right mood for sure....

So, only one thing to say i suppose... MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Adapting Quality Assurance

2008-11-29T00:51:00.006Z

It's almost 1am, and I'm actually studying... No, it's true! I really am... Been babysitting since about 6.30pm, and figured I could just as well benefit from staying awake and being bored.

We're (amongst loads of other things) doing a coursework in QA, where we are to convince the laboratory management in a lab to grant £1000 to adapt Quality Assurance. Easy peasy... Until you sit with your finger on the keyboard and think "soo, where do I start".. Been at that stage for more than a week now, hopefully it'll loosen up soon. All I know is that ISO 17025 is my fav. standard.

So, if you want to learn more about quality systems and standard manuals, why don't you study this one for a while......

Chocolate chip cookies

2008-11-27T18:17:00.003Z

200g romtemperert smoer
250g brunt sukker
200g vanlig sukker
4 egg
2ts vaniljesukker
300g havremel
4 ss hvetemel
3ts natron
800g hakket sjokolade
250g grovhakkede hasselnoetter

Slik gjoer du:
Roer sammen smoer og sukker og bland inn eggene ett og ett. Bland inn de toerre ingridiensene (ogsaa sjokolade og hasselnoetter).
Bruk en isskje eller en stor spiseskje til aa forme jevnstor boller. Sett bollenemed god avstand paa bakepapir, kjeksene vil flyte ut under steking. StStek i ca. 10/12 minutter, ved 180*C. Avkjoel paa brettet, og flytt saa over paa rist. Oppbevares toert og kjoelig.

Enjoy Issa <3

Funny Gadgets I might.... need?

2008-11-27T17:15:00.002Z

Just thought I'd inform you about my new list of "needable" gadgets... You'll find it further down on the right side:)

Forensic Wednesday

2008-11-26T16:14:00.006Z

Case:
Suspected rape

Casenumber:
006ASL27/8

Reported:
Early Saturday morning, 06:22

Location:

At victims house

MO:
Suspect brought wine to celebrate birthday. Possibly spiked, as victim got "overly" drunk after having one glass. Can only remember having hands tied together.

Investigation:
Suspect confronten and iterrogated. House searched for evidence.

Productions:
-Clothings ciesed from laundry: Black cord trousers, dark navy underwear, white/blue shirt. Match victims descriptions.
-Blue, synthetic rope found hidden in kitchen. Looks dirty, could have been used to tie hands.
-Unmarked 32ml glass containing 12 tablets also found. Ciesed for comparison with bloodsamples, possibly used to spike wine?

Item nr. KV001 - Black cord trousers.

Item nr. KV002 - Blue/white shirt.

Item nr. KV003 - navy blue underwear.

Item nr. KV004 - Blue rope.

Item nr. 005 - Unknown tablets in glass.

Item nr. KV006 - Saliva sample for DNA collected from suspect.

Packaging:
Item nr. KV001 (Trousers): Packed in brown paper evidence-bag, sent to lab for fiber analysis.
Item nr. KV002 (Shirt): Packed in brown paper evidence-bag, sent to lab for fiber analysis.
Item nr. KV003 (Underwear): Packed in brown paper evidence-bag, sent to lab for fiber analysis.
Item nr. KV004 (Rope): Packed in brown paper evidene-bag, to avvoid decomposition of biological evidence. To be frozen within 2 hours. Sent to lab for DNA analysis.
Item nr. KV005 (Glass with unknown tablets): Packed in plastic evidence-bag. Sent to toxicology lab for drug screening.
Item nr. KV006 (Saliva sapmle): Sample collected from suspect with swab. Packed in sealed container, sent in plastic evidence-bag to lab for DNA analysis.

Collection swab used for saliva/DNA.

Plastic/Polythen evidence bag. For non-biological material.

Brown paper evidence bag. For biological material, fabrics etc.

All evidence-bags to be sealed according to protocol, initials on tapeboarders to prevent liftings. Lists of productions created and signed.

No actual crime happened in this exersize. All names, adresses, times/dates were fictional. Suspects photograph from anonymous volunteer, synthetic saliva used for sampling.

Malin Aurora 15 <3

2008-11-25T17:12:00.004Z

Happy Birthday to one of the sweetest girls I know!!!
I can't believe you're actually 15... I feel like an old aunt:( BUT, I'm not, I'm the best, right? .. Right??

So, many happy thoughts and best wishes on your day, even though I did phone you up just after midnight.

Søta <3

Comment, please....

2008-11-23T12:31:00.002Z

Okey, here's the new rule.
If you enter this blog, you're entitled to leave a comment. Doesn't have to be much... A simple Hello, or your opinion about the post would be great!
That way I know that you excist:)

So.. GO ON!! Leave a comment.. You know you want to;p

<3

Snowday

2008-11-21T18:26:00.004Z

Early in the morning, on the 21st of November, the first snowflake fell in Aberdeen.

What started as a dark sky with a ray of light, was soon turned into a swirl of snow. But the temperature's not low enough. Most of the flakes never even hit the ground. From time to time throughout the day a thin layer of white could be seen on the roads, but wind and rain made it all less pleasant.

At 6pm the snow was just deep enough to make snowballs, and with cristmas lights up everywhere that old Yuletide feeling is just around the corner:)

Almost feels like home....

I wouldn't mind...

2008-11-20T20:48:00.007Z

So, what do you get if you combine Scotland with acting? Something pretty close to gorgeous Gerard Butler, known from Phantom of the Opera, Laura Croft: Tomb Raider, 300 and Rock'nRolla.

How handsome can you possibly be?? And that accent makes me drooool. Wouldn't take me very long to say "I DO".

Enjoy...

Scottish Open Brass Band

2008-11-19T16:21:00.006Z

On the 29th of November we're going to Perth to take part in the Scottish Open contest!!

The Bon-Accord Silver B-Brass Band has worked hard, with up to 3 rehersals every week the last month, and as the date gets closer, conductor Bruce gets even more frustrated...

Not even Bruce Almighty can sort us out! But we try our best, and I'm guessing it'll turn out pretty decent at the end.

So, since I've never been to Perth, I thought I'd do a quick Google just for the sake of it. It didn't take me very long to realise that something was way off with my geography... I had ended up in Perth, Australia:

So this is where we're NOT going...

This however..

..seems a bit more Scottish.

And apperantly this..

..is the Perth Concert Hall where the Scottish Open will be held.

Which again means that we'll be performing on THIS stage:

Not able to come along? Your loss... :D

Tea & Chocolate

2008-11-19T01:10:00.009Z

Time to go to bed...

Rob and I have had tea and Norwegian chocolate (kindly brought to me by Tommy), and even though it's getting colder outside, nothing warms up like radiators, candles and a little "early" christmas music.

Made for the occasion;)

Nighty night xxx

Award <3

2008-11-18T14:44:00.004Z

Yey... my dear, sweet and appriciated *loved one, part 1/2* gave me this award. How nice that you like my blog, still, the *yey* was ment to sound sarcastic. This is like those chain-letters that went around the world every so often when we were younger...

But, hey... I'll take the challange.. though I've shorten it to nominating 3 others. Besides, I won't bother giving it to anyone who's already recieved it. Wouldn't be fair..

And the Rrrrulez are:
1. The nominated upload the picture in his/hers blog.
2. Link to the person you recieved it from.
3. Nominate 3 other bloggers.
4. Link them as well...
5. Leave a msg on the nominees blog.

And the nominees are........... (Drumroles please):
Andrea, Bente and Randi.

Enjoy<3

Quote of the Day!

2008-11-06T12:52:00.002Z

Notice my newly added Gadget, further down at the right.
Say something memorable, and I'll put it there!!

911...How may we help you?

2008-10-26T22:48:00.014Z

Okey okey.. I know the emergency number in Britain isn't 911, and we didn't actually call the police it self, BUT there sure is plenty of action in Aberdeen!!!

"Story so far....

Saturday evening I finished babysitting at around 11.30pm.
Mathias (4) and Kristian (6) are two adorable boys, who, as most bilingual children, often put english words in norwegian sentencens. "For då expload'a heile huse...."
We ate spagetti, played with Lego and watched Mr.Bean on Holiday while digging into a massive bowl of candy:p (Oh yes, babysitting can be quite hard!).
The night was a success, and they both went to sleep at 9.30, after reading a few chapters in their new Scooby Doo book.
When parents Sissel and Torleif came home, I jumped into their taxi to get home. Little did I know......

The taxidriver was VERY scottish, so we didn't do much talking. Mostly because i could barely understand every fourth word he said:) So when we stopped at a trafficlight, we both sat in silence, watching the cars driving by one the crossing road. And THEN, a yellow Sudan came speeding through, almost sideways, on two wheels (uhm.. might be exadurating a little here...). But, no, seriously, it drove fast.
Before I got the chance to finish my "what an idiot"-thought, the car had stopped, the driver had gotten out, crossed the road, and stood arguing with some guy. And then, he HIT him. I don't mean "smack on the cheek"-hit, no I seriously mean punched him, straight in the face. I could hear the knock-sound!! The poor guy dropped dead on the ground, lying unconcious, while the driver ran back to his car and took off.

And thaaaaat's when my dear taxidriver decided to take up the chase. He cut through the roadcrossing and started sending out messages on their intern-radio. He finally got hold of the station and started about the incident, streetnames, nearby shops etc. While he told ME to take down the Sudan's reg.nr. All I could do was hold on, do as I was told and pretend to be in a Hollywood movie. After dodging a few oncoming cars, cutting corners and breaking the speedlimit more than once, we had all the info we wanted. We let the sudan get away, and turned around to check on the poor guy still laying on the ground. By that time two other men had approached him, and I could see that he was moving his hand. Which at least ment he was alive!!!

While I waited in the taxi, my driver got out to check how everything was going. And after talking to the police, a second taxi came to take me home. At last!!! May I say, not only did I get my portion of action that night, I also got a free taxiride;)

I stumbled up the 5 floors of stairs, and had just kicked off my shoes when Rob and his mate Dave came home. Nothing felt better than having two strong guys to keep me safe for a while. So after Rob had made us each a cup of tea, we snuggled up on his bed and watched tv. " THE END!

....I had the weirdest dream last night... Nothing scary or anything, but I can vaguely remember that all the cars were yellow..... hmm.

Academics...

2008-10-23T18:49:00.018+01:00

I just realized that throughout (all?) my posts, I have not once told you about school!!! Soooory.

Let me start with listing my modules.

Quality Assurance:

Chemometrics (wich is statistics, and how to use excel for this):

Spectroscopy:

Chromatograpy:

Electrochemestry:

Microscopy (inkl. Optics):

Bio-LAB:

Forensic-LAB:

All of these, exept the Forensic-LAb, are subjects that I've learned about earlier. But this time we go into more details, and... did I mention.. it's in ENGLISH... doooh.

At the time we have a coursework in Spectroscopy, and a Bio-Lab raport thats due in two weeks:S I must confess, it's preeeeeeetty hard!!!

The Forensic Lab is with out a doubt my favourite!!! It's more like a flashback to the arts&crafts lessons in primary school:D:D So far we have stepped in soil and taken our shoeprints, and we have painted litterarly our entire hands and done our fingerprints!!! It's just so much fun!! Next week we'll be bagging evidence! Of course, just like on CSI and Bones, there's tons of paperwork along with it all.

So, until further notice... I can be seen running around St.Andrews in my lab-coat and safetly goggles, with an calibrated automatic pipette in one hand, and my fingerprint set in the other!

(Or I might be located at the library, where I spend about 40% of my time;)

WATCH OUT;)

Pinch Me;)

2008-10-19T23:14:00.005+01:00

This piece is dedicated to my one and only "pincher";)

Hehe.. you are just SO sweet:)

*kisskiss*

P.C. Crap

2008-10-09T12:51:00.005+01:00

BAH!! I hate this computer!

Or... okey, no I don't. I just get so annoyed when it's doesn't do as it's told...!!!!
I've had problems with the internet, with my virusprogramme AVG (it wouldn't update), I've had problems with blogging... and now, everything seems to open i different windows. Besides, I can't even comment on my own blog! Or anyone elses, for that matter. I get some sort of error.

Bah.

If you'll excuse me, I have to get back to my Advanced Atomic Mass Spectroscopy... oh joy.

Oh, and by the way! I added some new pictures to and old post: Granite and Flatmates
So have a look, by scrolling back down or pressing the link above!

Weeee;)

2008-10-08T00:33:00.009+01:00

...to me...

My Daily Horoscope!

2008-10-06T22:31:00.009+01:00

Today I was inspired by Malin, who wrote about her horoscope. So I figured that I might as well do that too. Here goes; my daily horoscope..

"You can choose if you want to take the lead and thereby also take the responsibility, or if you just want to follow."

So... for some of you, that might mean something;) For others it won't.

And when that is said, tonight I've learned to write my name in Persian AND Arabic. I don't know how to show you here, but I do know this:

شب بخیر . فردا می‌بینمت
نمی‌توانم خوب انگلیسی حرف بزنم, ببخشید
چطورید, سلام

Nighty night;D

See you around!

2008-10-04T17:40:00.004+01:00

Kat's out:(

She's now officially over in flat 86, which is in the other end of the house... And guess what, Kat's got a LOT off stuff... So for the last hour, Rob and I have been volenteering to help carry boxes. Down 5 floors, and back up 4. Aching arms, I tell you!

Anyway, hope you'll get sorted soon Kat. Don't forget us....

Kat & Rob

2008-09-29T22:13:00.003+01:00

Something's way off about the "add-pictures-function"...
Luckily, Picasa makes blogging simple.. Or something like that.
So, since I can't seem to be able to add a photo to a former post, I'll just have to make a new one.

Here you go, for the world to see: 2 of my flatmates. Kat & Rob... Weeeeee:D

Call me!!

2008-09-29T17:19:00.001+01:00

Yeah! It's been two weeks since I got here (seriously?), and I've finally managed to get myself a british phonenr. Got pen and paper?

(+44)/(0)7532 069812

Call me, text me, jump up and down on one foot, I really don't mind, cause it woun't cost me a thing;)

Now all I have to do, is memorise it myself:S

Speechless Night...

2008-09-25T00:10:00.000+01:00

Aberdeen Beach

2008-09-22T10:57:00.000+01:00

What a beautiful day! Sun's shining from a blue sky. And since today's a Public Holiday, lets do something special. Aberdeen has a beautiful beach. I wouldn't go for swim at the time, but what about brining a book, finding a bench with a view, buy some coffee... So, since I don't have a photocamera any more (and since I haven't acctually left yet) I'll just give you a few sneakpeaks that I found on Google.

Looking good? I'll let you know:)

Chicken, cheese and doner.

2008-09-21T02:42:00.000+01:00

Just got back in. It's 02.45am and Kat went off to some mates flat (no.83). On our way home from Liquid we stopped and got some foood. Never before has Chips with cheese and Doner tasted this good. I'm going to enjoy it whilst watching the newest Bones episode and then crawl into bed. And, NO ROB, I woun't drop it;)

Granite and Flatmates!

2008-09-19T22:41:00.002+01:00

Aberdeen is after all the worlds granite city. That makes it very grey. You don't find red houses in Aberdeen. Do you? (uhm, yes you do. red.anm.)
But guess what? I kind of like it. The city is just big enough, and very cosy. And I haven't even been out to the beach yet!

I still haven't been inside St.Andrews campus at this point (which is where School of Life Sciences is located), but it looks alright from the outside.

Woolmanhill is... well.. student flats. Good enough, even though we're on the 4th floor (tilsvara 5.etasje) and lifts are yet to be discovered:p

And then you have the co-students.
There's 6 of us living here in flat 18. I've only met 3. No wait, that's not intierly true! I saw the 2 others yesterday when we all had to go outside, because Betty set the FIREALARM!! Oh yes;) Never straighten your hair when the windows are shot. Gets warm. Obviously;p
Betty isn't a fresher, no idea what she studies, but she is Dutch and very sweet!! Was sprechts du?
We also have Kat, my new older sister who always has her door open:) "Please come in, derlin', Please?". She was in fact born here, and has now returned to shake Aberdeen up a little;)
And then there's Rob. Or Reb as he says it:p Irish that guy. Very. And NO, he does not own a kilt. What part of Irish didn't you get? Have a feeling we'll spend a lot more evenings on his bed, watching stand-ups and strange films in the year to come.

SO... now what?
That's a good question. I have enroled, got my ID-card, not joined any societies or clubs yet, and school doesn't start til Tuesday (because Monday is an Aberdeen-holiday. Not in England, nor Scotland. Just in Aberdeen...?!). Suppose I could try to get in at St.Andrew, just to have a look around. Missed my induction session last tuesday (beeing on my way from London), so I've no idea about anything inside the building.
I'll survive though. I always do!

Enroled :D

2008-09-19T14:02:00.000+01:00

All good things come in threes... so they say!
And it acctually took me 3 days to get enroled. You see, I had to attend to International Orientation first. Easier said than done...

I was convinced that Wednesdays orientation-session was at 10am. It was not. It was at 9am. Shoot.
Thursday I was out early, going for the 08.10 bus, which was packed. So was the 08.20 bus. I finally got on the 08.30 bus, and ended up at Garthdee at 09.05. TOO LATE!! Schools stict policy says that late students will have to come back the next day. I tried to smile my way in, but no can do.
So, today I was reaaaally early. This time I acctually got on the 08.10 bus, which ment that I spent over an hour waiting at Garthdee seeing as todays session was not until 10am. I have never loved Costa Coffee more.

Anyway... International Orientation was finally attended, giving me good information that I mostly already knew:) Then it was off to financial advicing, on line enrolment and photographing. So now I'm officially an RGU student, with my very own ID-card;)

*i'll try to get a picture of it*

Just another weekend in London...

2008-09-17T17:37:00.000+01:00

Home, sweet home?
Well, not exactly. But it acctually feels like it at times.
I don't mind having my "own room" in New Cross. Ofcourse, seeing Sevda and Daniel again was wonderful too;p

Friday 12th sept:
My flight arrived at Gatwick around 8.35 pm, after beeing close to 45mins. delayed (orginal time of arrival was meant to be 8.10pm - you do the math...). You know the routine: get of the airoplane, walk, walk some more, wait in que, show your passport, exchange some money (at least I always do), and then wait for your luggage. And I had A LOT of luggage. One computerbag, one trumpetbag, one rather large suitcase and an even larger one:p
Luckily I found the lifts down to the trainplatforms. The lady who sold me the ticket to London, told me platform no.4. So when I got down there, and a train was just getting ready to leave, I jumped on it just as the doors were closing (well: jumped and jumped....crawled with bloodtaste in my mouth and only whites in my eyes, half dragging - half pushing my nearly 17 bags and belongings, is probably more like it...), About 5 seconds later I realised I was on the southbound train. Meaning away from London. GREAT. With some luck, the next station would be 25 mins. away. Surprisingly, it only took about 4 mins, until I could get off, and get on the northbound train going back up. So, about 45mins. and lots and lots of dragging, pushing, strange situations and worries later, I could fill Daniels car with my stuff. I felt really sorry for the car, but it got us home alright. Never before has a purring cat on a curled up lap in the sofa, whilst being served Sevdas food again felt better. Yup; home, sweet home.
Saturday 13th sept:
Daniel went to play at a football cup, whilst Sevda and I had time to eat a proper Sevda-breakfast before going out. The sun was shining, and even though we weren't allowed to have a look around inside the old London Library as planned, we wandered remote streets and found a cosy coffee-bar with a backgarden next to an old church. After enjoying our Espresso con panna and Iced Tea with lemon, we stumbled upon a small market where we both agreed that we would have wanted to take home one of the fairytale-puppets AND the old lady who told the stories whilst playing with them. After a quick journey on the underground again, we got lost in narrow streets in Temple, and acctually FOUND the Temple Church filmed in "the Da Vinci Code". We crossed the bridge on Blackfriars Bridge, watched the River Thems Festival and boating races, and ended up at Ev, a turkish restaurant in Southwark, where we had the Deniz Menu. We practiacally rolled home. So did Daniel whom, after having lost all of their matches, could barely walk for a few days;)
Later that evening we drove to Blackheath for a drink (meaning: Daniel drove, Sevda commented, and I enjoyed the views, trying not to mind the cars coming towards me on the wrong side of the road).
Sunday 14th sept:
Daniel drove us to Dulwich Village, where we spent most of the day in the park. After drinking coffee outside the little diner, we decided to rent a tandembike. Daniel, still suffering from a great amount of pain after playing football, gladly volunteered to carry our handbags whilst Sevda and I went for a ride. Interesting ride, I'll tell you! But we got the hang of it, and even pursuaded Daniel to have a go.
After a few hours of resting out at home, we drove to Surrey Quays were we ate pizza at Pizza Hut and then watched The Duchess at the pictures. (Sevda, Cecilie and I acctually walked through one of the sceneries from this film, at The Royal Naval University in Greenwich last October.)
Monday 15th sept:
Daniel, poor thing, had to go off early for work. Sevda and I did not! We ate some toast and an apple (presicely! I ate toast and Sevda ate the apple), and then went off to Londons Kings Cross Railwaystation to pick up my tickets for the next day. We then met with Dan at Liverpool Street Station, and had lunch at Burger King..:/
Sevda and I walked down Goodge Street, where we windowshopped at BangBang, drank hot chocholate at Starbucks, and "skimmed" through TopShop when we finally reached Regent and Oxford Street. I say "skimmed", because you would need about 3 days to look thoroughly through it all. We also stopped by Zara and House of Frasier, before we exhausted went home. After stopping by Sainsburys and the videostore, we made homemade Köfte and mashed potatoes and watched August Rush. It was commonly agreed that Jonathan Rhys Meyrs isn't exactly ugly to look at;)
Tuesday 16th sept:
It was time to move on. Literarly. Poor Sevda wasn't feeling well, so she stayed in bed that morning. Daniel and I left her behind, and travelled towards Kings Cross. I'm afraid he'll face pain for a few more days, as he carried my enormous suitcase down and up the stairs at New Cross Station. Isn't he just adorable!! Luckily for us both, the rest of the journey offered escalators or lifts. I "chased" him off to work at Aldgate, only two stops before Kings Cross, with a promise to be back in not too long (hopefully without 29kg suitcases..). When I got there the only thing to do was wait. 50 mins. later (9am) I was on my way to Edinburgh, and from there on to Aberdeen. Exited? You could say so. But not as exited as the two senior american women who wrote down practically everything they saw on the way. How sweet.

Happy birthday:D

2008-09-17T15:14:00.004+01:00

Okey, first of all... let me just say that I should have written this days ago. Well, I didn't. But hey, better late than never, right?

As you already know, Friday12th of September was an important date. But not only was it the date of my departure; it was also one of my best friends Isabells 20th birthday!!!

WEHEY, what a birthday gift, right? Leaving her behind... (A)
So, we had to do SOMETHING to keep up the tradition.

Yvonne (my other bestfriend) and I planned yet another (...) surprise gathering. And so, thursday night all 3 of us hang out. What Isabell didn't know, was that when we went for a drive, she was in fact kidnapped. We stopped in the middle of nowhere, and gave Isabell a homemade Rebus to solve. The answer led us to one location, where she was given a new one. The last one led straight (...) to the gigantic tent, which Yvonne and I had stuffet with cusions, blankets and lots of snacks and a birthdaycake, in my backgarden.

Candles were blown, sangs were sung, games were played, rumors were spread, and in the weeee hours of september the 12th 2008, we all fell a sleep in our alkoves. Some more royal than others...

For more pictures from the event, please see
Yvonnes blog: Living like life's going out of style!

On the move...

2008-09-12T11:42:00.000+01:00

Today's the day. THE day. At 6.45pm my flight goes from Vigra to London. And I don't even have a return ticket... Wæææææ!
But it doesn't stop there. OH NO... Cause I attend to go further. All the way up to Aberdeen. Not until tuesday, though. By train this time. Still.....Wææææææ.

What's going on, you ask?
I've been accepted. At MSc Instrumental Analytical Science at the Robert Gordon University.

Good Luck to me.

ps... that's why I decided to do it in english this time. I need the practice. Besides, you'd be surprised to find out how few who speaks norwegian out there!