Have I participated in a genocide or the operations of Nazi Germany? That's what they wanted to know when I filled out my visa application... Well, I've arranged an interview, the first available time is in mid-July, so I honestly don't think I'm too early with this one... Well, anyway, that one's on its way and actually I think I've taken care of all the major issues now!! (Oops. Except I haven't registered for the courses yet - will have to do that today!)

Apart from practical matters, I'm suffering from severe "traveling fever" :) I totally can't wait. I'm reading all kinds of books and Internet articles about New York (where we will be heading first), the Pacific Northwest and lately also California (we're planning a little trip there with my parents after the semester). I'm already dreaming about Au Bon Pain in New York. Our flight will land at Newark at around 1pm. so the only thing I probably manage to do that day is go and have a raisin&cinnamon bagle there, and get adjusted to the time difference. This time round I want to explore more the area around Central Park and also head out to Brooklyn etc. (Last time we went to New York we only had a few days so we concentrated on the "must-see tourist attractions mostly Midtown and Downtown.) I really, honestly feel the time should be going a bit faster. 54 more days ;)