Anglophiling

Ever since I was a kid, I loved all things English (P.G. Wodehouse, T. Rex, my 'Hylas and the Nymphs' poster), and now I live in England so it's kind of like a dream come true. But even while living here, I enjoy being transported to other times if no longer places... I just finished reading The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory, based on the life of Mary Boleyn, sister to Anne Boleyn, second wife to King Henry VIII.

Before leaving for the UK, I had some check-ups done and my dermatologist, upon hearing of my love adventure to a new land, suggested I read this novel. For one reason or another I just recently got into it. Now I hear a movie version is about to be released so I need wait only a couple weeks to see this fun and fascinating book played out on the big screen! Popcorn anyone?

Speak no errs

Soon after I arrived here in Wigan, I joined a local speakers' club, the Standish with Wigan Speakers Club, a part of the Association of Speakers Clubs. Back in New York, I was a member of a local Toastmasters International club. Both organizations provide a place for colleagues to meet, in a comfortable and nurturing setting, to practice and improve their public speaking skills.

Moving to a brand new place, I thought joining would be a good way to meet new people and be in a somewhat familiar environment. I'm definitely glad I did; the members are great and it's always an enjoyable evening of fun and learning. Well last week I made my first speech (first with this club anyway) and the subject was... me and my blog! So, in addition to providing a link to my peeps back in the U.S., my blog is also a source for speech-making material. Not exactly awe-inspiring stuff, but it'll do.