Olympic torch and Birmingham (July 2, 3)

I haven’t taken the time yet to thank the people that have made this whole trip possible. First, I have to thank my parents, Bob and Darnell Langley, for all of the love and support they have given my siblings and I growing up. I also have to thank my grandmother, Linda Shull, for helping make this trip possible. This is by far the best graduation present I could have asked for! Lastly, I have to thank the instructors for putting the trip together: Dan Wickman, Mary O’Mahoney, Brent Seebohm, and Jim McLean. Thank you all very much, it has been a great trip so far and I know there are so many more wonderful things to come!!

Yesterday was the most laid back day of the trip so far. It did however start at 6am, when group of us met in the lobby to go see the Olympic torch go through Coventry. After waiting outside for a bit, we finally saw the torch run by. It was another great experience, and I am glad I actually rolled out of bed for it. It reminded me of seeing the torch go through Aspen on its way to the Salt Lake Olympics in 2002

We got back to the hotel then I got a quick breakfast and went back to bed, while the rest of the students went to class. Not going to lie, it is nice not having to go to class. After waking up, a couple of the graduated seniors and myself went around to explore what Coventry had to offer. I learned that it was hit hard by World War II, and has been recovering every since. Later in the night a group of us went to a pub to enjoy a few drinks and each other’s company.

Today, a few of the graduated seniors and myself took a train to Birmingham for the day. It was nice getting out of Coventry for a bit, and having the freedom to make a day trip like this. Birmingham is the second most populated city in England, behind London of course. It is well known as a large international commerce center. We walked around the city center and did some window-shopping. We also went to another pub where they had great steak and beer combo deals. After eating, we walked around the markets and looked at all the produce they had. It was great to see a farmer’s market environment in a different country. We then caught the 20-minute train ride back to Coventry.

Back at the hotel now, may go see the Amazing Spider Man tonight, but not sure. I am going to head to an Italian restaurant around the corner later with some friends for dinner. Tomorrow the plan is to go to London for the next few days. I will make sure to give an update on it when we return to Coventry. Cheers!!