Just Touched Down in London Town

My Home For the Week Here in London

I've begun my adventure!!! I had a wonderful last weekend in Normal, with a going away party on Friday, times w/Kim and Patty, a night with my roomie w/Chinese and Conan O'Brien, Easter w/my family, and a packing party w/close friends and a bottle of champagne. I was touched, too, by my family and best friends who came to the bus station to send me off. I have been overwhelmed these last few days with how much love everyone has shown me. It's amazing to jump out and live a dream, but I can't deny I have my fears. But, this last weekend I felt so much love and support that I feel strong to begin this new chapter of life!

So, you can see here in these pictures what my London life is like right now! I'm so thankful to have a friend take care of me here in her 'flat.' Today I had a great time grocery shopping here in Streatham, West London - it was a great opportunity to see this beautiful part of the city, with all of its greenery and brick structures. I spent the afternoon practicing but every 5 minutes I would find myself dozing off on the couch and then saying to myself, "wait, how did I get here? Get up Raylene!" For four hours I kept up this battle, me against my 20 pound eyelids, as I ran through the competition rep. But I feel focused and inspired here - it's exactly what I need as I go into Bucharest. But right now, I'm just excited to go to sleep!!!!

The View Out of My Window

A Look Through the Skylight in My Room

Jet Lag + 4 Hours of Practicing = This Face