A few weeks ago luck shot down upon me from the heavens – a.k.a. a bird pooped on my head. In all of my awkward ladylike glory, I took off my scarf and started spitting on it. I then proceeded to rub my hair profusely. I was uncharacteristically running late, so I probably looked majestic running down the street while taking pictures of my head with my iPhone and wiping my hair with a spit-laden scarf.

Wintertime in Budapest has been relatively mild. We have snow flurries from time to time, but as of late we have had – wait for it – SUN. As much as I love this country, perpetual grey skies make me question my loyalty. I go into town quite often, but rarely bring my DSLR. I decided to lug it around while creeping the streets with my new friend, Dani.

“To the memory of the victims shot into the Danube by Arrow Cross militiamen in 1944–45.”

Dani is an incredible jumper.

Lángos.

After leisurely strolling about, we decided to hike to the top of Gellért Hill (Gellért-hegy). If my memory serves me right, it has been a year since I last huffed and puffed my way up. I am not used to inclines of any type – I grew up in Southern Georgia and now live in flat Pest. I love the view, just loathe the climb.

Last Saturday my school had its annual charity ball. I spent all day washing, drying, and curling my naturally curly hair. After painting my face and inhaling food at Matt and Kendahl’s flat, we jetted off to my school for a night of fun. Each year at the charity ball prizes are given out. I purchased only one raffle ticket and it paid off – after three years I finally won something! A sports bag was bestowed upon me, to which my boss sadly stated: “You are leaving, so we are giving you a bag.” I do not know if I have mentioned it yet, but this is my last year in Hungary. I do not know where I will be next year, but I would prefer to be somewhere in Asia. Hopefully the bird poop will grace me in that regard.

Kendahl, me, and Catherine.

On Sunday I met up with Dani, Matt, and Paul at the Mangalica Fesztivál, located at Szabadság tér. This Hungarian breed of pig is covered in curly hair, which resembles that of a sheep. Hailed as the “Kobe beef of the pork world,” this breed of pig almost became extinct in the late 20^th century. After consuming food in a hurry due to brutal winter winds, we made our way to a Bestsellers, an English bookstore. I have always been an avid reader, so being surrounded by books is a beautiful experience. Dani is one of the few people who has read most of the books I did as a child. I purchased only one book, but am currently unable to locate it in my messy flat.

This Sunday I am taking 20 7^th and 8^th graders to Mohács for Busójárás. As far as I know, only one of my students (out of 132) has been to this festival before. Trying to organize this trip has been a little more complicated/expensive than anticipated, but I have high hopes for it.

As for spring break plans, I am finally backpacking through [part of] the Balkans! I do not have much money, but the time is now. I have been putting off this trip for the past few years and am tired of just dreaming of the day that I finally go. My friends Carlyn, Dani, and Jolan will be accompanying me to Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Montenegro. I have only read horror stories of the overnight train to Belgrade, so send good vibes our way. I am putting all of my faith in Jolan’s second degree black belt.

A Lesson From Miss Jennifer: Always wear a scarf in winter.