Let yer colours burst cuz baby yer a fire werk

It's down to just a couple of days and the best distraction I can think of from packing is typing this, right here. The last weekish has been amazing. I don't think I have mentioned it yet but I had an "Off to London" shindig at the KBE (Kalamazoo Beer Exchange...my favorite). I had friends new and old come out and it was great to see so many people. I must admit I was really nervous before going and my BFF Katlin can vouch for that! I just don't like having all the focus on me honestly. For instance, when it comes to opening presents, I over think everything and worry about what my reaction will be or what I should say or do and everyone is looking right at you. I hate that. I don't know why either; I always like what people give me and everyone that came out to the KBE obviously was there because they wanted to be. But nonetheless I get nervous and anxious...and I know, I'm weird. Anyway, it was a great night and I'm so glad that everyone came out! (Sorry Liz! By the time you arrived I wasn't thinking about pictures anymore =( So I'm giving you a personal shout out instead! <3 )

Rachelle, Katlin, Ashley, Erinna, Me, and Kelsey

Brandon, zombie killer

Niki, Me, and Adam

Katie and ME

I worked my last real shift Sunday and I'm very excited to not have to think about work again until August! Monday I went out with Niki and Derrick for "Monday at Harvey's". It was spur of the moment and I'm so glad we went. I just adore Niki! Anyway, yesterday I picked up a shift at another store but it was surprisingly enjoyable, even though I was regretting that leading up to it. It was great because I got to eat tacos and joke around and drink coffee! Living the dream as James says. Plus, I worked with Andy for a little bit! Then after work my dear friend Lydia called and invited me out to dinner. She wasn't able to come to the outing at the KBE because she had to work so we met up to get some grub. Funny enough we actually ended up at the KBE...it was just meant to be =) Their nachos are so amazing. EAT THEM. Afterwards I went out with Adam and we walked to Olde Peninsula and Harvey's. A completely fantastic day! 

Today I have been out and about with mi madre and sister. We ended up in Barnes and Noble, which always gets me into so much trouble. BUT I found this killer zombie book in the bargain section (pun only partially intended) and then a book of photographs. Then I had this book about 80's toys in my hands so my sister and I sat down on the floor and looked through the entire book for probably 15 minutes. At some point I had five books in my hands and I was still finding more books so I had to talk myself down and put everything back (except my zombies and photograph ones naturally) and remember that I am going to London in TWO days. TWO DAYS! So now my mom is reading a book about the American Revolution to my sister (it's a long one...going on 40 minutes lol) and I'm procrastinating while drinking an Oberon that my mom is "forcing" me to (the bottle is needed for fireworks later and I did not put up a fight). Later we are going out to eat at Olive Garden and I know I am getting an Italian Margarita, Cheese Ravioli, and Zeppoli for dessert. Then we will see the Portage fireworks and sit outside my work like we did last year, I'm sure.

Happy 4th, everyone!!! And thank you to everyone that has been treating me on these occasions =)

I feel like this picture visualizes how I feel right now. Overwhelmed.

P.S. I realize a couple of things now. 1) I have had many alcohols in my pre-departure celebrations and 2) I have probably written too many posts for my pre-departure...at least probably more than a normal person. So sorry about it all! Fair warning...there will probably be another one tomorrow =) Also it should be noted that I have accomplished setting up Skype and have successfully used it with my dad and Sabi!