Sigma Nu

So I'm bored, which always leads to Wikipedia - somehow I decided to look up notable alumni of Nayan's frat. They're pretty cool...
Bob Barker
Joe Buck
Harrison Ford
James Dean
Paul Rudd
Mr. Feeney on Boy Meets World
Tom Johnson - president of CNN, ex-president and CEO of the L.A. Times
The producer of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Paul from The Wonder Years
Boyd Tinsley - violinist in DMB
Eli Manning
Head coach for the L.A. Lakers, New York Knicks and now the Miami Heat
Bill Yoast - the character portrayed as the coach on Remember the Titans
CEO of AFLAC
Founder/Owner of Bass Pro

I love Wikipedia...let's see what other useless information I can learn.

Recent Articles

Prescott's Confession: I had Bulimia
The Magic Wan
Fashion Queens of the Court
Twice as Nice

I'm gonna glow in the dark with Kanye!

Thanks to Chelsea's Kanye West obsession, we are going to Chicago on May 24 to see his Glow In The Dark Tour featuring none other than Rihanna, Lupe Fiasco, and N.E.R.D.

Our VIP tickets put us in the first 20 rows...I cannot wait...Chels and I have a pretty good concert record: Spoon, Elton John, and Kanye West.

Check out what Perez had to say!

My 4 Hour Journalism Class

It wouldn't be such an enormous deal if I hadn't been at work from 9:30 - 6....and then sat in class listening to other people's presentations even though in the interest of time, I didn't present mine.

I think it's safe to say that I'm thoroughly infuriated and have actually decided not to speak to anyone until tomorrow. Oh, to top it off, I slept for 3 hours last night.

Then there's the fact that I have to pack...

I'm going to eat dinner, yes at 10pm, and then if buttered pasta can put me in a better mood (which I'm having doubts about) I will return for another non-ranting post.

Otherwise, deal with it.

New features

I just upgraded my blog -- my play list, current state, and approved sites have all been updated. Check it out!

Expect a lot of posts this week as I will need to appear busy while I pretend to pack.

Things I'll miss about London

Besides the obvious - friends and family - here are some things that I will genuinely miss about Londres.

Passion fruit all year round
Green grass all year round
The tube
Having my own place
Being in the center of the world
Incredible shopping, which has unfortunately only been done through windows
McDonald's McFlurrys with Crunchie in it
Trifle
Fish and Chips that don't quite compare to anywhere else in the world
Black cabs
Culture in general
Knowing I'm in a real city (sorry STL)
Annabel's
Getting dressed up to go out
Walking places
People watching
THE INCREDIBLE FOOD
Nando's chicken - a Portugese chicken restaurant where we go on Fridays
Indian food on every street
Double decker buses
Having a mobile, not a cell

I'll add more later.

April 26 = The Best Day of Your Life

I'M COMING HOME ON SATURDAY, APRIL 26!!!!! I WILL BE IN ST. LOUIS AT 3:05PM!!!!

THAT'S 10 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I don't think Chelsea would approve of this...

Check out the new Starbucks BS...thoughts?



Update: Erica just informed me that this cup will only exist until the middle of May because Starbucks is trying to get back to their roots...? I don't know if I'll be able to boycott the cup for that long!!

I <3 STL

Things I cannot wait to do/experience when I get home, in the order I think of them:

Haircut
Mani/Pedi with my Mom (and/or Chelsea)
See my new apartment!
See my "new" room at home
Enjoy nice weather
Wear rainbows
Have my dad's famous burgers
Eat beef
PANCAKES
Work out for the first time since December
Cardinal's games
Go on a "my favourite restaurants" tour of St. Louis
Seeing fat people again (it's been a while...don't judge me)
DRIVE
Flip through all the catalogs Mom has undoubtedly been saving for me
Watch TV
Proper Starbucks
Buttered popcorn at the cinema
St. Louis Bread Co
Turkey (they don't really have it here...)
Bear City
Watching movies on something bigger than my computer screen
Magazines with people who I know on the covers
Gabbie, my Wii Mii
LIVING WITHOUT MICE
Looking at my Elton John pictures on my old camera!
Have a bath
Mom this may shock you -- clean because I'll finally have a place to put things...


Ok, I think I should stop now otherwise I'll be booking a ticket home in the next five minutes.



Oh, that's my facebook graffiti rendition of Gabbie which someone doesn't seem to care for.

xx ab

Procrastination Nation

At least we know I'm good at something.

I came to Sangeeta Bhua's last night in hopes of being productive for my end of the year journalism project, but 24 hours later, I only have 62 words written...slightly embarrassing. Granted, I did start The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho this morning and am halfway through.

Our field trip today was to the Globe, which was pretty interesting to see. I think I might go see King Lear on the season's opening night.

If anyone wants to get me a housewarming present for my new place in Columbia, I am currently obsessed with Guitar Hero. I'll need a Wii as well. Juuust kidding, I'll get it myself :)

So, my journalism project. It's due on Monday, I made my project proposal well over 3 weeks ago, but somehow I'm just starting. I've set up a blog and am going to basically make a guide to the celebrity world of London. Apparently that's journalism? I talked to my professor yesterday and she said "well, you don't want it to just be writing, like make it into a website."

Um...okay...I don't know how to do that and don't think I'm going to be able to learn by Monday night, but great.

For now, I think I'm going to just stick to the blog idea, turn that in, and then for my class presentation maybe make a PowerPoint presentation so it's "not all writing."

I'm currently wishing that it was April 27 and a) Mom was here b) I was on a beach somewhere or c) I was in St. Louis. If you see a lamp with a genie in it, send it to London!!

Oh, and my ear hurts? I'm not sure what that means but it can't be good.

Now, back to The Alchemist.

xx
ab

How to look good naked

Today, MSN's Life & Style editor Nicole O'Neil and I went to the filming of the season finale of Gok Wan's How To Look Good Naked. We trekked about an hour outside London to be guests at the event.

The purpose of How To Look Good Naked is to help women realize their beauty through confidence etc. It totally belongs on the WE channel. Gok Wan is the fabulously gay oriental man who hosts the show. Like, on the runway he was wearing a rose pink suit, navy patent shoes, and made out with a guy.

There were five normal-human-being-sized models strutting their stuff on the catwalk, basically to pump up Jenny, the poor woman who felt her body didn't deserve to be looked at by anyone. P.S. She's rail thin. You could count her vertebrae.

It was hilarious when they all modeled lingerie, and of course Jenny had to as well. She came out in a little red number and then stripped naked in front of the cameras and audience. She only showed us her bum.

Anyway, the show premieres in May on Channel 4 in London and Nic and I will be in the episode! Once I get the link for the online stream of the show, I'll put it up.

I Love Penguins

Update: I had to change the title because Penguin Love is out of commission.

Today after our trip to the V&A, I decided to stop in the Natural History Museum since it wouldn't be overridden with kids. The museum is actually one of my most vivid memories of London - I remember being at the gift shop picking out a rainbow-striped eraser. Sweet life, I know. I actually checked to see if they still had one...I saw a lot of amazing stuff (I'm going to go back with my camera for the Dinosaur exhibit) but the highlight was the Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2007 exhibit. I've been wanting to see it since I got here. Here are some of my favourite photos from the exhibit.

Verdict: Grace and Chelsea are equally creepy

This is a little conversation I had over the past day or so.

Chelsea makes a Madeline reference.
Ambika: Oh my god, I made a Madeline reference today too!
Chels: In what context?
Ambika: I was telling Grace Clarke that her blog reminds me of Madeleine.
Chels: I LOVE her blog. I creepily read it all the time. Will you tell her that?
Ambika: Um, ok...

|Part 2|

Ambika: You know Chelsea Lee right?
Grace: Well, only through Facebook and pilates.
Ambika: She wants me to tell you that she's obsessed with your blog.
Grace: OH MY GOD I LOVE HERS! Chelsea approves, right?
Ambika: Did you see it because it's linked to my blog?
Grace: Yeah!

|END SCENE|

I miss our computerized washing machine

I ventured out tonight to do my laundry. First time here (no I'm not dirty, it's just that I did it all in St. Louis and since then have been taking it to my aunt's house). Anyway, so, laundromats are useless. Let me paint you a picture.

I picked up kebabs from my Indian place, and then went to the laundromat next door. After 40 minutes (even though my roommates promised me it would only take 15 minutes), I took my clothes out of the washer and they were soaking wet. Like, I had to wring out the water and my hands are still numb.

I then put in 3 pounds for 30 minutes in the dryer. My clothes are still wet.

Moral of the story? I miss our washing machine at home. There's a little button that says Ambika (thanks Mom) and I just push it and voila - clean clothes.

xx ab.

Two more reasons to <3 Emily Jolynn Brooker

So I was just messing around on Facebook today when I thought, let's see if Jolynn's actually been on the book recently. I was more than pleasantly surprised to see my debut in her profile picture. This is from her 21st birthday: Then I checked her about me section which has basically bothered me since freshman year. All it says is "I can't stand Cardinal fans." But take a look at the new amendment!!
Here's to you, Jolynn.

(Calm down Chelsea, you'll get a blog post too)

Anyway, I just got out of the shower and have to pack and get ready for Dublin!

xx ab

It's Alright, Tonight...

I had an extremely productive/busy day today and am quite impressed with myself. Everyone in our flat overslept and woke up for our 9am class at half 8. Somehow, we all made it on time. After class I went to work and finished the research for an article I'm doing on 30 Fun Facts and Trivia on Dallas. April 2nd is the show's 30 year anniversary. Afterwards, I met up with my BLC group at the Inns of Court where we took a tour for an hour and a half. It was kind of cool going to the Royal Courts of Justice. I popped into King's College just to see where Papa and Mamu went to school, and then I headed over to the National Portrait Gallery for the Vanity Fair exhibit. It was a display of Vanity Fair covers from 1918 to 2008. I especially liked this one of Jennifer Aniston.
All of my favorites ended up being by Liebowitz and Testino. They're absolutely incredible. I'm thinking about getting the Vanity Fair portrait book for my new coffee table with Chelsea.

After that, I came home and then took Shivam to see National Treasure and out for dinner. We had a great time, considering.

Really exhausted, will find the patience to put up my Paris pics soon. Until then...
xx ab

Anger Management

I wrote an article on Anger Management today in a state of emergency at MSN. A press release came out today about how anger is terrible for our health etc. and of course the BBC played it for three quarters of an hour, every hour. This screen shot is just to show you that it's on the first slide of the MSN homepage. I've had stuff here before, but this is legit.

Also, if you click on the picture to zoom in, you'll see a story called The spice is right on the carousel. That's me too. You can read it here.

Ich bin ein Berliner - JFK

We got back from Paris yesterday and I still haven't made my way back to my flat. I'm at Sangeeta Bhua's for another night - I can't seem to tear myself away. So, in the mean time, I thought I would catch up on some blogging.
Pictures from Berlin
Berlin was interesting - I had a good time with Laura, Kristin and Sarah, however, I'm done with Germany. Is that bad? I don't know....but I just find Germany to be a very creepy place (for obvious reasons) and after two trips there, I don't really have any major desire to go back...I feel like there are too many other places in the world I still need to visit.


We got there on Saturday morning and jumped into things right away. I kind of did my own thing because the other girls were going to be there for longer than me. I did quite a bit in two days and am quite proud of myself for one thing in particular: I never allowed myself to even feel tired which was the first time in my life I feel like I've been able to go a whole day doing so much without letting being tired get in the way. That might not be a good thing...

Things I did:
Brandenburg Gate
Kennedy Museum (so up my alley)
Hotel Adlon (where Michael Jackson dangled his baby over the balcony)
Berlin Wall
Checkpoint Charlie
Reichstag
Holocaust Memorial
Hamburger Banhof Museum (Warhol, Lichtenstein)
U-Bahn

I'm sure there's more but I'd need my notebook to remember and I don't feel like moving.


The Kennedy museum was so cool, I saw the black crocodile Hermes briefcase JFK had with him in Dallas when he was shot. It was basically the story of a dynasty told in pictures. At one point I was standing there and I was just like, everyone in these pictures is dead...kind of creepy.

I didn't do any of the Holocaust museums because I feel like I did them all when I went to Dachau etc.

We stayed in a very decent hostel. I was the first person to our room for six which we thought would have rando girls in it, however when I went up, there was a grown man in the bottom of my bunk. Needless to say, I put my stuff down and ran out. I waited in the lobby for the other girls where we decided we needed to move rooms. Since they were going to stay for longer, Laura Kristin and Sarah got a 3-man and I got a double as a single. Which was the size of my room in London for 4.

Dinner's here. xx.

Your help just hurts

Current mood: dismal, overwhelmed

To Do List: Pack for Paris, Dinner with Sunaina and Jinesh, find a way to think about something else than the confusion of bear city, decide what non-obvious things I want to do in Paris, get in a better mood, get some sleep.

Time left do to all of this: approx. 3hrs, not including the sleeping bit.

Time car is coming to get us for Paris: 4.30 a.m.

Enough said.

And if I make it through today, will tomorrow be the same?

In honour of Paris Hilton and Benji Madden's newfound love, I've chosen a Good Charlotte lyric for today's title.

Obviously I haven't written in ages, sorry to those of you who need my blog posts to get through your day. Nayan's in town so I've been terribly busy. Seriously, I haven't napped since last week. I'm very busy at work today, will explain more later, but I just wanted to let you know that a) I'm still alive and b) the joy my blog brings each of you will return quite shortly.

Hasta Luego,
Ambika

Infuriation City

Preface: I HATE FACEBOOK, SHUTTERFLY, FLICKR, AND BLOGGER.

So, I went to Berlin over a week ago right? Right. I arrived in London over 2 months ago right? Right. Yet, I only have one Facebook album up portraying my fabulous time abroad. Why, you ask? Because there is NO EFFICIENT WAY WHATSOEVER to upload photos. I can't show people annnnything. Nothing. Nada. I have no evidence of being abroad whatsoever. I can't even show you the buddy bears I found in Berlin.

Why am I so angry? Oh, well, because it's only taken 4 days for me to find out that no, it is not possible to upload any album to Facebook. After a 2 hour waiting period tonight, only 1 Berlin photo made it online, so when I went to delete this album (because let's face it, people expect more from me) I saw that there were 5 other albums with question marks - signifying they were lost, confused, and empty - a sad symbol of my useless efforts at showing everyone what I'm doing.

To add to the mix? I bought iLife 08 at Mizzou when I was there just for iPhoto 08. The grrreat news is that Facebook is not compatible with iPhoto 08. WHAT DOES THAT EVEN MEAN?

At least I have something to show for my day.

I'm going to go scream out of frustration and try and fall asleep,
ab.

Maybe Tomorrow

Let me run you through my day. This is why I will not be posting anything legit tonight.

I just got home from work and class...as in, I left for work at 9 this morning and now it is 10:15.

Update: My clock went an hour ahead because it still thinks it's in the U.S. It's only 9:15 yay!

Miserable weather all day.

International Issues Reporting Class featuring the Fox News Bureau Chief - Scott Norvell...who basically told us that journalism degrees are of moot point and you are better off getting a degree in something else. Coming after my epiphany last night that maybe I don't want to be a poor journalist when I grow up. (I now want to be the queen of my own country, if you know anyone in the business..)

Then I had to talk to my teacher about a project proposal.

Then, when I responded "That's not true" to a girl who said "People who wear Chanel will never set foot in an H&M" (same girl who said the upper class is only made up of the nouveau riche), she shooed me away. As in, like, shooing a dog away. It was weird.

Then I hit my head on a taxi door.

Good night and good luck.
AB

Sicky

Haven't been feeling well all day - K and I have been holed up in our room for most of the day. Work was fine, Thursdays are MSN Money, but I left a bit early so I'll have to finish an article tomorrow.

Dad and I went to Scott's -- one of my favourite (London spelling!) restaurants in London. This is the same place I went to last summer when that man spilled a bottle of wine on my Kooba bag. Yes, its so good I went back for more.

Tomorrow we're either going to San Lorenzo or Crazy Bear, can't decide yet.

I'm wishing I wasn't going to Edinburgh this weekend because I would desperately love to sleep in. Great planning on my part.

Ahh great news! Chelsea found some amazing apartments!

xx Ambika.

Daddy Daughter Fest

Hey okay, so I'm trying this getting to bed early thing,(I don't think it's going to help because we all know my issue is the morning bit) which is unfortunate for you because this blog post is going to be short.

Dad's in town, if you couldn't tell, and we're having fun with what little time we have. Basically just dinners, but great company + great food = a night to remember.

I'll do a Berlin post as soon as I can figure out where I put my camera cord, and why iLife '08 is SO INCREDIBLY ANNOYING.

Kristin and Sarah come back tonight :)

I wrote an article on Monday that I'm really proud of -- sorry to those of you who I've already harassed into telling me it's good tee hee.

Oh, and grrreat news -- at the moment I'm only enrolled for 2 classes.

xx Ambika

Blasts From the Past

The last few days have been very unexpected...it's funny how when one thing happens, everything seems to follow suit. In every sense of the meaning. I've had some pretty powerful re-connections in the last few days, I'm still starry-eyed.



I haven't seen my grandmother (read, Papa's mom) since my grandfather's funeral in Nairobi nearly 5 years ago. She was in town this last week, unfortunately for another funeral, but I got to spend some time with her which was just unbelievable. At first it was a little awkward, just because so much has changed since I last saw her, but on the second day it was perfect. I went to Hounslow on Wednesday afternoon and had lunch at her sister's house. They have a cook from India living with them and it was soo incredible to have home-cooked food! (I can't wait till Sangeeta Bhua gets back!!) I decided that no matter how uncomfortable it might have been, I was going to spend the night there on Thursday. I mean, it's the least I could do, and I hope it meant a lot to her. It certainly did for me. She lit up when I asked her to make me sugar prontas (can't spell in Hindi) and I was just watching her, thinking, what a grandmotherly thing. So anyway, I slept there last night and then this morning, the cook walked me to the tube station and I went straight to work. Hounslow's really far, for the record. Like, we're talking zone 6.

I've also been wanting to get in touch with Lindsay basically since we graduated, and I finally got the courage to do so. I pinged her a message and gave her my email address, to which she sent me such a nice letter. After this much time, it's hard to remember why we fell out -- I can only remember good things. Well mostly :/

On Wednesday I met up with Jamie Corley and Jono Cohen, also from high school. We went to the LSE student pub and it was a lot of fun. I just wish someone would have taken my phone away from me!

I'm going to Berlin tomorrow which I'm really excited about. I was having second thoughts yesterday because I kind of would love a weekend alone here, but I think that was just part of buyer's remorse or something.

Work was okay today -- was kind of struggling but oh well. Had two articles this week which I'm really proud of. I'm working on another two for next week. I'll be the only intern in next week as it's the mid-term break for the rest of the program. (I went home, remember?) We had Nando's Chicken Friday which was everything I could have hoped for. I also went out with everyone for drinks at a pub near the Westminster Cathedral because the Tech & Gadgets Editor had his last day today. I'm glad I went, I got to talk to a bunch of different people. I'm also going to test drive cars with the Cars Editor...no big deal. Like, amazing ones.

I'm semi-jealous everyone's in STL for Nidhi's baby shower this weekend, but Dad will be here on Monday and I cannot wait for that!!

Also, could people start voting on my poll? Grrreat, thanks.

Ambika xx

I am Scrabulous

I just want everyone to know about perhaps the most amazing scrabulous game EVER. I don't know if I'll be able to finish it because I don't think Ryan wants to be beaten by a girl. The score is currently 281-153. Here are my best words with their points. It's no big deal but his highest word was worth 17. What an amateur. Juuuuust kidding!

Quieter: 48
Bin: 21
Thief: 28
Ghost: 39
Fair: 21

That's all.

London Fashion WeekEND

LFW was amaaazing. Kristin and I went around 1:30 yesterday and were given passes and escorted into the tents outside the Natural History Museum. We first went to the Ana Mika booth -- that's the company who gave me the passes. There was a champagne bar, a Campari bar, a nail salon, a hair salon, two restaurants, and an espresso bar. We started on the first floor in accessories and finished off the second floor about 3+ hours later. I can't decide if it was more interesting to see next season's fashion or people watching, every kind of person imaginable was there. We got asked if we worked there because of our badges which was funny. The prices were pretty amazing, but all the American lines just ended up at the price they would be at home. I got a Little Miss Curious Junk Food t-shirt and THE most precious dress. Get this: Black angora wool. Hand made. Strapless. Full Skirt. Cream buttons down the bust. Cream belt. Tuxedo style fold over at the top. It's by this company called Lowie and since everything is handmade, there are only a few of each piece. There was this hummingbird jewelry I really wanted to buy, I don't even know how to explain it...but then I decided against it. I'm sure trendy stuff like that will filter into Forever 21 etc. at some point.

Steal of the day I didn't take: Grey, sequined chiffon dress by Roberto Cavalli for 99 quid.

Anyway, I have so much stuff to do - I need to have an article ready for Nicole tomorrow...among other things. Hopefully I'll get a chance to post again tonight about this weekend's festivities. Sarah's roommates from home came to visit her FOR JUST A WEEKEND (hint hint to anyone who wants to come visit) and a bunch of us went out last night. I better go before I spoil the good stuff!

xx.ab

I'm running out of lyric titles...

Last week was amazing -- I had so much fun at home. I just can't get over the fact that I spent 12 hours in O'Hare Airport. Kristin picked up my shoes for me last week, from the shoe cobbler, and they are unbelievable. Just like brand new. I don't know how they do it, but I'm regretting not bringing all of my shoes back from St. Louis that need a little rejuvenation. It was nice to be back at work today...although I could use a holiday again. Just kidding...kind of. Today is Kristin's 21st - we went over to Suzi's for drinks and presents, and Kristin went out to dinner (at Signor Sassi's...sigh) with her sister and her friends. Well make it up to her tomorrow night I'm sure.
I got hit on by a waiter at the Indian restaurant across the street. His first sentence? "You must be from Pakistan." Grrrrreat. What a shame as I really liked the food there. Oh well, I'm sure the one on this side of the street is decent as well.
Went to Dover and Canterbury yesterday -- pretty uneventful. Although, I did light a candle and write a prayer at the cathedral in Canterbury, which was actually pretty amazing. I wonder if I'm even allowed to do that...oh well.
I'm working on getting tickets to the London Fashion Week sample sales for Saturday, so hopefully that will go through.
Also, I was approached by Matt, the head honcho at work, about writing for MSN Money once a week, so now I will spend two dadys with the Entertainment Channel and one day each with Life & Style and MSN Money.
I'm getting tired so I think this is it for now.

I'm getting really frustrated that on Safari I can't really upload pictures. Will figure something out this weekend.

ab.

Sleeping to Dream

Too tired to concentrate -- going to get into bed and fall asleep to friends. Will update when I can keep my eyes open.
AB

Sarahfest 08

Since there were 21 candles on Sarah's imaginary birthday cake today, Kristin, Sarah, and I went to celebrate in Brighton. It was incredible! We left this morning around 10:15 and took the train from Victoria into Brighton -- whenever I go to Victoria, which is everyday for work, I always think about Mom because that's how she got to London from boarding school. Anyway, Brighton was so cute and it was absolutely perfect today - no clouds, all sun. Aside from our intellectual conversation, it kind of felt like we were on The Hills or something. We had incredible fish & chips and mussels over a bottle of wine at a restaurant overlooking the ocean. We sat outside and it was so warm in the sun that we even got to take our coats off!! Brighton is apparently the gay capital of the UK, which explains the penis-shaped chocolate bars everywhere. Brighton kind of felt like 20% Santa Monica Pier and 80% Atlantic City. But maybe not, as I've never been to Atlantic City.

Last night we went to Brick Lane. There's only one word to describe Brick Lane: earthy. We had a really great time, all the boys came out for Sarah's birthday which was great because that meant we'd be safe on the tube home. We went to their flat afterwards and then came back here. Want to hear something incredible? Our entire flat for 6 girls is the same size as two of the boys' bedrooms. If not smaller. In their 4 person room, they have 2 CLOSETS. WE HAVE ONE. THEY HAVE TWO BATHROOMS. WE HAVE ONE. THEY HAVE TWO FRIDGES. WE HAVE ONE. THEY HAVE A PATIO. WE HAVE A MOUSE. I got really irked when I noticed that they had extra space in their closet. Once it gets warmer I think I'll send my winter clothes down there. It just doesn't make any sense. I mean, sure, they're in the basement and our whole building has to keep our trash in front of their door until it's trash day...but two bathrooms? And toiletree storage? Ridiculous.

I have an article up. Once you get to that page, click on the arrows on the feature pop-up thing until you get to "The Dairy Debate." That's me. Those directions will only work for a week, I'll post another link later because my internet is sucking right now.

Yesterday I had lunch with Sangeeta Bhua, Sanjit Uncle, and Ambika at the Cipriani, and then Kristin met up with us for tea at George. On the way back to our flat, we ran into the most stupid people ever on the tube, they squeezed 10 people into a space where 3 people would have been uncomfortably, and they kept bashing me and pulling Kristin's hair. It was really weird. I guess it was 5:00 somewhere.

Anyway, I'm so tired...I think I'm going to get some stuff done and then go to sleep. Soon. Oh, we got mousetraps. Marvin's being shy, but I'm sure he'll get curious soon.

ab.

Handprint on my Heart

So I always said that if I went to college in New York or somewhere equally fabulous, I would do culture-ful things on my own. Well, I'm in college, er...uni, in London, so I decided to prove it. I was leaving work today and knew I'd have the night to myself as all my roommates were busy with other stuff, and I thought, I could either sit at home and be mopey, or, I could go see a show. I stopped by the Victoria Apollo on the way back to see if there were any tickets left for Wicked...and I got a front row seat for 25pounds! I am SOOO glad I went, it was UNbelievable. I've never seen a show like it - it was just phenomenal, I'm probably going to be obsessed. And yes, the next book on my list is now Wicked.

The actresses who played Glinda and Elfaba (sp?) were just unbelievable...there was a standing ovation and everything - that didn't even happen at The Sound of Music!

Yesterday I went to Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon, which I'll write about this weekend.
Ambika.

Passive v. Aggressive

I would go into detail about this title, but then that would be exhibiting passive/aggressive behavior, no? So, all I'll say is that as much as I love awkward situations, I'm not a fan of the one I was in all day.

UPDATE: problem solved.

I just got home from work a bit ago and I'm dreading going to class. Okay, maybe not dreading...but I'd rather be napping.

It's interesting to experience the Superbowl as an outsider. At home it's always such a big deal about where you're going and who you're watching it with, but in all reality, no one really cares here. I wonder if it was televised at a different time, maybe the rest of the world would be interested. I think it ended at something like 3 this morning. I contemplated going to a bar to watch the beginning last night, but then I realized I could just watch all the commercials online and let's face it, that's the best part of the Superbowl. Anyway, mazoltov to the Giants.

Happy Crepe Day

I don't even know where to begin...

Work
Friday was dreadful to get through for some reason - just really tired I think. I did a fashion quiz for the life & style page which was really fun because I came up with all 18 questions, found the pictures, formatted it etc. Here is the link: http://style.uk.msn.com/ If you scroll down, there is a picture of a Union Jack Chanel bag that says "The Big Fashion Quiz" or something. That's all me. It kind of sucks because author names don't go on quizzes. Oh well, I swear I did it. I had a lovely lunch from Nando's, and then I was supposed to go to a pub nearby with everyone from work but had to bolt on the way because my dinner plans got moved up, and then canceled.

Saturday
Yesterday I had lunch at Sangeeta Bhua's house -- to meet the other Ambika Behal. I was hoping we wouldn't get along so then at least I'd feel justified in being bitter about the name thing, but she was incredibly lovely. She's so accomplished and poised. I'm sure I'll be seeing more of her.
Last night I went out with Sarah and Erica, then came home and met up with Kristin at 1 (I know, so not me) and had an amazing time.

Sunday
Kristin and I somehow managed to make it to our crepe date this afternoon...I had to call the other Ambika for directions, but we made it...and it was so worth it. The restaurant was about the size of our flat, and you could see them making the crepes in the pseudo-kitchen. We then went to this amazing cupcake place called Hummingbird. I think they're getting into L.A.'s cupcake thing here. We went to Knightsbridge and stopped in Harvey Nick's, where I accidentally tried on Louboutins, and Harrod's. Thai for dinner with Kristin and Sarah...now I'm ready for bed...

Bragging Rights

I decided that perhaps I should be modest but if I'm not going to toot my own horn, then who is? My Celebri-Tee Gallery was the second most clicked on page for the entire month of January with nearly 600,000 page views!!

The Tate Britain was great, but I need to go back because I didn't really see anything that I was hoping to see - William Blake and JMW Turner. I might try to do that this weekend, and then go to the Tate Modern by ferry afterwards.

Erica's birthday was low-key, I think she enjoyed herself. Kristin and I snuck out to Selfridge's and bought these amazing birthday cupcakes and a birthday petit four...they were so good we didn't even share with Marvin....or one of our roommates. But as she was on a psuedo-date, we felt she had other things to look forward to than a scrumptious carb nightmare.

I overslept this morning and ended up having a miserable day at work....just one of those days. How I semi-got out of that mood: hunting for cupcakes on Earl's Court Road with Kristin until we found chocolate souffle cakes, Indian food, finished The Sound of Music, watched a couple of episodes of friends....GETTING TO BED EARLY.

highlight of the day: email from jolynn, listening to "closer to you" by the wallflowers on the tube. on repeat.

So, I'm gonna need a second opinion...

I finally gave in and went to the dentist today - the verdict? I need to have 3 wisdom teeth removed as soon as possible and then 1 later on. He scheduled me for surgery on Thursday even though I said no...but don't worry I'm cancelling. Gonna tough it out till March - can't be worse than kidney stones...right?

I had three more things published on MSN today, but I should let you know that though my name is on them, I did not actually interview the people or write anything other than the questions. Those are general interviews they send out to media outlets for PR. I also found out that I am no longer "allowed" to work for the Life & Style channel, except on Fridays, because Shannon and I are on the entertainment team. Kinda sucks since I really love working with that editor.

Tomorrow we're going to the Tate Britain which I'm really excited about...van Gogh, Gaugin, JMW Turner, William Blake...people I've actually studied! I'm going to meet up with Jamie for a coffee (read, hot chocolate) afterwards.

Tomorrow is also Erica's 21st, don't forget to say happy bday. We'll see what happens with that!!

Penguin Love

Too exhausted to write. New link up at msn - gallery on SAG winners. msn.co.uk then entertainment, then movies, then it should be linked up from there. Another gallery up tomorrow, fashion at the SAG awards. And an article on U.S. vs. London style.

Mouth is killing me, nothing works, may go to the dentist on wednesday.

Thinking about going to Barcelona, any thoughts?

Hasta Manana,
ab.

And then there were two...

Friday was a disaster. We tried to go to the V&A to have drinks and look at some exhibits (don't worry I caught a glimpse of a Giambologna) but it took everyone too long to get ready so by the time we got there, they were wrapping things up. But I'm definitely going next month. Afterwards we went to a few different places, but I think everyone was in the mood to be disagreeable. Kristin and I got carded at this RESTAURANT and I didn't have anything on me so of course the manager was like you can't drink which was fine. 5 minutes later he came up and shouted "Didn't I ask you to leave?" and I said no...you said I couldn't drink and I'm not? I love getting yelled at in public it's my favorite. I got yelled at at McDonald's the other day too. It was weird.

Yesterday Kristin and I had a Kristin and Ambika day again, which was just what we needed I think. We just walked around Kensington High Street...tried not to give into our vices of shoes and sunglasses, respectively. Although I did find a pair of stilettos similar to the shoes I've been trying to replace. They're a little less camel and little more cream, but they're darling. We had lunch at this amazing Thai restaurant I think called the Papaya Tree...it was done in all white and had orchids and things. (Chelsea they even have #9 from Bangkok!!) We're going to go there for Valentine's Day, don't be jealous. Then we had tea at muffin man...well, Kristin had tea, and I had milk and chocolate cake....

Nanima and Papaji called yesterday which was incredible. Last night I met up with Sangeeta Bhua, Sanjit Uncle, his grandma, and Shivam at Harry's Bar. We had a lot of fun and it was so interesting to talk to Nanni (sp?). She was a huge journalist in India - she started the first women's and men's magazines in India and interviewed all these incredible people. Mind you, she had lunch yesterday with the Sheikh of Abu Dhabi, who's name is ironically enough Nayan.

Afterwards they headed home and we went to Annabel's. Wasn't in the mood but ended up having fun. I was eavesdropping on the dinner conversation of the Princess of Ghana.

Maya cooked lovely Indian food for lunch and now I'm back at my flat. Have to do some research for some articles and homework...

ttfn (that's for you gautam, and probably chels)
ambika

Get Excited!!

Hi!! Ok well here's what I've been doing all week - check it out and let me know what you think. And be nice, it's only my first week :)

Only complaint - for the "spot the difference" gallery, I wish the pictures were larger so you could see all my photoshop work in detail. This week was the first one, and they've decided to make it a weekly feature!

http://entertainment.uk.msn.com/celebrity/PhotoGalleries/gallery.aspx?cp-documentid=7349099

http://style.uk.msn.com/fashionandbeauty/celebritychic/gallery.aspx?cp-documentid=7355946

stay tuned

I know, it's been a bit since I've written, but I will remedy that tomorrow. Missing everyone!

xo. ambika

Marvin the Mouse

Quote of the Day
Me: "How do we know Marvin's a boy?"
Kristin: "Because we can't fit any more b****es in this apartment."
So true Kristin, so true.

We have a mouse. He is probably pooping on my clothes because as there is no room for all of our things, I had to fold my juicy hoodies and sweaters and place them on the floor under a desk. On the bright side, at least it's not a rat. Mice seem friendlier, except for Ratatouille.

Today was my first day of work ~ and I am now realizing that I can't say anything because my editors have my blog address. I will say that everyone is really nice and I'm getting my feet wet with some projects, but I was having some computer difficulties today. At one point, I had three computers on my desk.

I'm really, really bummed out right now for various other reasons, some of which I can't even put a finger on. The icing on today's cake was that one of my roommates can't afford the perfect house we want to live in next semester, and I just found out today that someone else has signed for it. Awwwesome.

I have to go write a paper for tomorrow night's class which should be interesting as I still don't know what I want to write about.

Whatever, (like from Wedding Crashers)
Beaks.

99...98..

I tried Kristin's sure-to-get-you-to-sleep method of counting backwards from 99. Well, that was 2 hours ago. Wish I could sleep -- messing around in Photoshop etc. I wonder if there's an easier way to upload all these pics without having to change their sizes in photoshop. Suggestions?

We are so journalism - Erica, Sarah and I are all in our beds on our apples.

I have a paper due on Tuesday night that I'm not looking forward to - I didn't really enjoy the museum we went to, and I tried to take notes but now they make no sense. I guess that's what I'll do tomorrow night when I can't sleep.

Sunday Blues

Kristin and I spent the afternoon at a little cafe down the street and got quite a bit of work done...I dragged her with me to Picadilly Circus to get the Sound of Music which will only play on my computer, not an American dvd player, but it will be worth it I'm sure. Hopefully it will get me out of this weird funk I've been in since M & D left. We all start working tomorrow - Shan and I are planning on leaving at 9. I'm realizing that I won't be able to eat as much, and as well, as I'm used to -- everything's so expensive and I'm trying to spend wisely. Shannon just found ramen noodles for 40p - feels like mizzou.


On the brighter side of things, Chelsea found us an incredible house and I think we'll be signing this week.

Flatmate Fest Numero Uno

First thing's first - internship update: Shannon and I will be working for the entertainment channel at msn.co.uk -- usual start time isn't until 10am. Thank god someone understands that mornings just aren't doable for me.

After a lot of indecisiveness last night, all six of us actually managed to go out together which is actually quite an accomplishment. We took the tube to Picadilly Circus and went to a club on Haymarket called Electric Birdcage which was sooo much fun. Arriving just shy of 10, we beat the 20 pound cover charge which was a blessing once I coughed up 10 pounds, or $20, for a drink. With nowhere to sit, I asked one of the hostesses how we could get a table, and after just a few minutes, she had the manager kick a group of people out of their seats so we could sit down. I'm not quite sure how that happened, but we got a table without having to pay the standard 500 pounds for it! I'm pretty impressed, I'm not gonna lie. We danced for at least 3 hours in front of a DJ stuck in a birdcage - totally serious.

I woke up today with my usual super sloppy Saturday craving of pizza. I spent the afternoon figuring that out and exploring our neighborhood a little bit. When I got back, Shannon and I got super motivated and reorganized our living room. It opened up the room quite nicely, but it would probably help if we could all figure out how to pick up after ourselves.

Abbey Road

So...I was informed that my interview went really well with MSN and that I will be interning with them for the semester! Yesterday Mom and I went shopping on Oxford and then met Dad and Sangeeta Bhua at China Tang at the Dorchester for a quick lunch. She was going straight to the hospital from there which made me sick because she doesn't deserve any of this. Then the three of us went to Harrod's which was of course a zoo. The sales are incredible...but the fact of the matter is that you'll still be spending an exorbitant amount of money regardless of how much you "save." Case in point - I'm sure everybody reading this knows about my camel colored steve madden's that I've had since...10th grade - the one's that make my mom cringe because they're ripped and the heels are split? Well, after looking for a similar pair for ages, I found them at Harrod's. Slight problem though as they are Jimmy Choo's on sale for 200 pounds (read, $400). I made the mistake of trying them on and of course now I can't stop thinking about them. Last night we went to this incredible Indian restaurant in Wembley with Harish Uncle, Geeta Auntie, and Janki. It's called Blue Room and the food was delicious. I think I'll be craving the spicy, crispy prawns for a long time. And the fresh passion fruit juice...mmm. I spent the night at the Dorchester with Mom and Dad. I was thinking about staying here but then I realized I shouldn't let a hotel room twice the size of my entire flat go to waste. I slept in this morning after they left and then went to visit Sangeeta Bhua at the hospital. We're having a flatmate fest tonight - details to follow!

How do you solve a problem like Maria?

We saw The Sound of Music at the London Palladium Theatre in the West End and it was just absolutely unbelievable! All day Kristin has been serenading me (somewhat creepily) with music from the show, and I completely understand why. To everyone's dismay, I had never even seen the movie. The six year old girl who played Gretl was sooo sweet. They were all amazing -- I'm so glad we got to see it. Our BLC trip today was to the Museum of London which was quite a let down. It was basically targeted to fifth graders...but I guess I learned a little bit. I'm more interested in going to the V&A, Tate Britain, Tate Modern, stuff like that. Tomorrow I'm spending the whole day shopping with my mom and eventually my dad, so...hasta manana.

tears and rain

i didn't realize how much i missed anything until i just talked to nayan...i was in tears the whole time...hopefully he didn't detect, i'm a pretty great actress.

Four Square

Ahhh what a perfect evening. Class was interesting, we had BLC but tonight's lecture wasn't so much British History as it was American perception of Britainand British perception of America. I enjoyed it and actually took a few notes because I would really like to learn about where I'm living. It would be so interesting to take an American history class here, just to see the angle they take, what they focus on. Afterwards, Kristin and I went to Sainsbury and got some dinner - their chicken tikka samosa was definitely eatable... Our flat was pretty jampacked when we got back..everyone cooking etc. I opened a bottle of chardonnay and then Erica, Kristin, Sarah and I went to Prince of Teck, a pub nearby and had some wine till close which was really fun. We just talked about really interesting topics and got to know each other a little better. We came back to our flat and it was just the 6 of us which was so great, we have such a great dynamic. More wine, more laughter, music, facebook, videos, stories....we got real. Mom and Dad get back from Milan tomorrow, then I'm going on a tour of the Museum of London, which may very well be the British Museum, at 2, and then the three of us are going to see the Sound of Music. I might go to Paris this weekend with a girl from downstairs (Kirsten) or I'm thinking about visiting Janki in Portsmouth. On another note, I'm so stoked about msn.co.uk....I hope they think I'm a good fit! Also, Nayan, if you would email me back that would be grrrreat. Chelsea did some research on what sounds like 1.5 great houses in Columbia, so I'm pretty excited to hear more about that. My friends think Nayan is cute lol but it's okay since he is. P.s. It's impossible to find Reisling here. Any tips?

xo, beaksy

What a feeling

I am really pleased with my interview this morning. I met with three different editors for msn.co.uk and really liked all of them. If I really hope I get the position - we talked quite a bit about event and celebrity coverage, fashion blogs, and entertainment. Also, I would be able to experiment with different mediums to enhance a story which will be a great learning experience. The offices are located in basically a glass pyramid, and there were xbox 360's in the waiting area of the lobby. I was told that the building would be hard to find, so I took a cab this morning, which was probably harder to find than the building. I walked up Cromwell for about 20 minutes before one taxi lit up just as it was approaching me.

I rewarded myself with a cup of Starbucks and a pastry as I made my way back to my flat - all this walking will surely negate one tall hot chocolate, don't you think?

Ok I have to get ready for class...6-9, get excited!

So I shouldn't have assumed - we all know what that does

I found out this morning about where I will be interning for the semester...drumroll...msn.co.uk! At first I was focusing on wanting to be placed at a magazine since I know that's what I want to do, but I'll still be writing (and hopefully editing) in more of a features style than I ever have before, so I'm thoroughly stoked. I have my interview tomorrow with Matt Ball, the editor-in-chief and I'm really excited. As far as I know, I will be working for the lifestyle and entertainment sections of the website which will be really interesting and brilliant. I'll be working with Shannon and Stephanie which I couldn't be happier about. Oh, we had our first class tonight...no comment. Three of my roommates are out probably having a fantastic time at some pub, but I figured it would be more responsible to prepare for my interview. I talked to Chelsea today which was a great pick me up...now if I could just get her and Jolynn out here. I'm gonna go narrow down what I'm going to wear as I have to get up at 7 - with our pressureless shower I'm giving myself all the time in the world to get ready.

Seriously? I wonder what it would be like if I was asleep...

Have you ever laid in bed wondering why you can't sleep when that's all you want to do? I'm pretty sure i'm nocturnal...I wonder who I should talk to about that. I had a very interesting weekend - Friday's orientations only corroborated my theory that this program is either not legit or run by half-brained twits, but I'm pretty sure it's a little too late to back out now. On Friday night we went to Harry's Bar, a fancy-schmancy private dining club, with Sangeeta bhua. We took a cab two blocks to Annabel's to see and be seen over coffee. I think my dad's pretty impressed with London, and really intrigued by this whole private night club thing. I actually read an article in Vanity Fair today, thanks to Erica, about Mark Birley - the man who introduced private clubs to London, which was rather interesting. Yesterday I ventured out on my own to Oxford Street and dropped into Selfridges. I wanted to have sushi at Yo! Sushi, but it was really intense and i got scared, probably because it wouldn't be the same as Wasabi. Last night was the Mittal party which was really interesting. I wore a black, gold, and pink Missoni-esque dress from bebe and actually stood out from the crowd of 15-18 year old girls stumbling around in black dresses, Christian Louboutins (sigh), and Chanel bags. It was so interesting to meet the Mittal moguls...I couldn't get over how ordinary they are. I can officially say I've met billionaires. All the girls in the family were so sweet to me. The open bar was a great hit, and when this woman with an albino python (pictures to come) walked in, I avoided her like the plague. I think I'm going to flip through my LSAT books until I fall asleep. XO.

soggy socks suck. so do naps with the door open. dad's in town!! I'll get to see him after another orientation at Imperial, and then we're going to Harry's Bar tonight...getting excited.

Have you ever seen the rain?

I just got back to my flat from the Dorchester (thanks mom) and it's still dark outside. What? We have to meet up at 8 for an orientation at Imperial College in the pouring rain...not the end of the world, as long as I can find my umbrella.

...i'll think of something to put here...

quote of the day: "i think that's creepy but it suits you" ~kn

That was in response to seeing if "Gimme More" (as in Britney's song) was an appropriate title for today's entry - which I think it is considering I want more of London...but whatever.

So not going to bed on Monday night was a grrrreat idea, I was ready to pass out about halfway to Chicago. We met up with Kristin, and it wasn't long before we discovered we have enough episodes of Sex and the City and Friends to hold us over. The flight to London went over pretty smoothly -- minus the guy three rows behind us who had a pillow case on his head...while he was watching his iPod touch. Maybe it wouldn't be that weird if it was an ordinary pillow case, but it was the pillow case off the airline pillow, so it stood straight up. I sincerely tried not to laugh in his face.

We spent the night at the Regency and then packed up to meet the rest of the group at the residences. It was pretty intense -- Kristin and I lugged 5 suitcases up 5 flights of stairs, and then some because each flat is really up the stairs from the front door. Our flat is across the street from a hospital that Papa was in for a while, which is kind of depressing...but at least I know I'm tracing his footsteps. Mom left after she helped me unpack...the contents of half a suitcase are taking over the living room which is actually making me feel right at home. So then we had to wait for half an hour for the people in charge or whatever and we went to the Kensington-Chelsea library, peeked into Hyde Park, and then had a disastrous lunch at a pub on Gloucester Road. So I THINK what happened is that the pub that was booked for like 90 people forgot that we were coming and didn't prepare, so we had to wait 3 hours for our fish and chips, which were full of bones. However the conversation may have made up for it - 5 sorority girls talking about politics, aids, morals and values? You be the judge. These two girls got plaaaastered at the next table, i think they each had 9 vodka sprites with black currant (?). Coincidentally enough, they got lost on the way to our next stop and rumor has it slaps on the wrists ensued. After lunch we went to Imperial College to talk about safety and rules etc., and then my flatmates and a lovely girl from downstairs, Carson, decided to wing it back to our flats on our own. We made a pit stop at Marks and Spencers (at my suggestion) to pick up some food etc. I went straight for the trifles, green apple juice, and chocolate rolls (big surprise there).

All in all, it's been a long but bearable day and I'm so looking forward to the rest of this semester.

Wave Goodbye, Say Hello

if saying goodbye to everyone is anything like tonight, tomorrow's going to be one hell of a shit show.

so this seemed like a better use of time than packing or cleaning my room (sorry mom). i'm a lot excited, a little nervous for this chapter, but that's quite a change from the past few days. i think that now that it's here, i'm realizing i'm going to have a blast in perhaps the best - and probably the most expensive - city in the world. that's probably enough soul searching for now...