Here we are, the last blog post. Technically my last assignment ever (at least that I know of). Stratford-upon-Avon is such a peaceful little town. When I heard that the town was often called a sleepy town, this is not necessarily what I was expecting. There are way more stores and restaurants than I would have expected for a sleepy town. But, last night, when me and my roommates went on a little walk into town after 7 pm, I realized that sleepy town is the perfect description for this sweet little town. It was essentially a ghost town after 6 pm because all the stores closed and with the additional gloomy weather, it felt more like London than London itself did.
This city compared to London, to me, was basically the exact opposite in terms of vibes and I love both. This city has a much more comfy, cozy, sleepy vibe. I feel like this vibe is kind of a surprise but it also weirdly fits the life of Shakespeare. My favorite part about being in Stratford would have to be the idea of walking in my Grannie’s footsteps throughout the town. She was here about 63 years ago and took a picture with a statue that I decided to recreate!!!
Okay now on to the sappy culmination of the entire trip. As I’m writing this in the airport (oops it’s late, sorry 🙂 ), I keep reminiscing on how much I have changed throughout this entire experience. This trip has quite literally changed my life for the better. It has been the most amazing and inspiring experience of my life. Seeing London has been a lifelong dream of mine. Visiting Scotland and following my Grannie’s footsteps has also been a lifelong dream of mine! Seeing and learning all about Shakespeare is a more recent dream but watching Midsummer at the Globe was one of the best times I’ve ever had.
Obviously a lot of great moments happened on this trip, and the exploring was amazing, don’t get me wrong. But, the best part, in my opinion, was the people (I’m gonna be sappy deal with it, friends). It’s sad but I think before this trip I had forgotten what it felt like to be around nice and caring people. This entire group was so welcoming and caring to everyone, even a random English major senior like myself. I have met some of my best friends on this trip, and I hope these friendships will last me a lifetime, if I’m lucky!
Susan and Tim and Shawn and Courtney, I cannot thank you guys enough for being so welcoming and caring. You guys are what made this trip so special to me! I’m sad to be graduating and leaving all of these new friends, but I hope to keep in touch, and maybe we can all get tea sometime!
For one last time, cheers mate! I love you all!
- Jill Qualls
Theatre in London U of A 