By Jonathan Kinnard:

Yet another Harlaxton day started by most with a warm cup of tea and a hearty breakfast. This morning’s class started with presentations as usual. As the sunlight breached through the garden windows in the Long Gallery, I started by giving a brief presentation on Nottingham Castle and its history. This was followed by interesting discussions from Mia Weaver on Robin Hood and Amber Carroll on Lord Byron’s love-life. Without missing a beat, Dr. Rutledge then launched into our quiz on D.H. Lawrence and his literary works. Next was an unorthodox lecture that ended with each of us feeling each other’s faces to demonstrate how awkward it must have been for Bertie in D.H. Lawrence’s The Blind Man.

Next was lunch. Then we dispersed to all corners of Harlaxton and Grantham, England. Woodland walks seemed to be popular ventures today as the many nooks and crannies of the trails behind the manor were explored. Other students took biking trips to Grantham to shop, eat, and go to church. I was surprised to find that the bike ride to Grantham is not all cement and sidewalk either. Plenty of creek-side trails were used as shortcuts to get around. Thanks to Veronica Johnson’s expert trailblazing, my group made it to church safely and on time for a wonderful Sunday service. The Bistro (Harlaxton Manor’s basement) is certainly becoming a favorite spot thanks to the plethora of movies, darts, and cards available. I walked around the manor around 9:00 pm and noticed four different movies playing at once. Without a doubt, it’s been a relaxing day here with a beautiful sunset to put the cherry on the cake.

By: Jonathan Kinnard

Today we took a morning pause from the busy streets of London to explore the calmer city of Bath. Leaving bright and early (8:00am) with our bagged breakfasts and lunches, we departed via metro to then catch a train to Bath. The train was the epitome of European rail, with shiny smooth sides and a magnificent station to house it. Half of the cars were facing forward, and the other half backward, meaning half of our group (including me) had an interesting way of seeing the countryside. Once we arrived, Dr. Rutledge began by taking us to Royal Victoria Park where we had lunch. Then it was sight after sight of Jane Austen history leading to the Roman Baths. I think the whole group was stunned by the amazing history, view, and feel of the Roman Baths. I was shocked that anyone would wade into the algae filled pool until learning that the original building had a massive roof that prevented light from encouraging the growth of algae. We even had to opportunity to drink water from the underground spring. Next, we split up. My group went to the Leather Chairs of Bath shop and then Clandar Fine British Clothing to by our mothers scarves. We then left Bath via the train and had some free time in London. Dinner was on everyone’s mind, and Speedy’s Cafe was among the popular choices. With another full day planned tomorrow, many chose to go to bed early and study for tomorrow’s quiz. Another day in England well spent.