"Is the word 'bible' the same in every language? You know, like 'toilet.'"

Oh, my friend Julie. :)

Well, the last few days have been fabulous. :) Utrecht is a nice city. One day we had high tea and went to the park because the weather has been amazing. We have also gone shopping. Today, I went to the University library and tried to do work. I am getting some stuff done, but not as much as I would like. Oh well.

I am at a stage where I am homesick, but at the same time, not. It's so weird. That is, I miss being around people I love and who know me well. But I also love all the people here--they are so awesome. Julie is a bit reserved, but crazy and guillible when you get to know her. Karen just recently came out as a lesbian at home and is so excited about that. But there's much more to her than that. She is also one of the nicest people I have ever met. Mercedes is kinda crazy as well, but also amazingly nice and sensitive to not only boundaries within the group but cultural boundaries as well. Lexi grew up going to boarder schools and stuff, so she is smart and always has something interesting to add to the conversation, as well as being a nice person. Bobbie is a bit intimidating when you first get to know her--she definitely tries to bend gender boundaries. But, when I got to know her, she is one of the most sensitive, intelligent people I know now. Shalimar is always loud and very opinionated but is also a faithful friend and very funny. Kara is quiet (sometimes) but quirky and a political science major, so she also adds a different dynamic. Emily H. is sensitive to what's going on her around her and is very intelligent. Laura always add something to the conversation about the way gender is perceived and is also very humorous. Emily A. is funny and smart. Rachel is also very opiniated, but there is more to her than meets the eye (as with most people). Jackie seems really sweet and innocent--and is, but only to a degree. Jasmine comes from the Northwest and definitely has an exotic feel about her--but is also so nice. Aran is quiet at times but has a lot to say about sexuality. Anat is kinda of quiet, too but sweet and intelligent. Kelly, our program assistant, is a great mediator and a philosopher, which is a nice addition. Iveta . . . eh, how can describe Iveta? She's . . . smart, crazy, sometimes a little too blunt. So everyone is amazing . . . it's just a different dynamics, you know? I want to be here and at home at the same time . . .

But being here is still amazing. I can't believe I have been given this amazing oppurtunity.

I should get off the computer. There are people waiting. :) Good night all.

Jennifer

OH! Happy belated Halloween.