I'm hungry.

Food. Now, anyone who knows me knows that I love to cook. I guess you can say that's the Ukrainian in me. And the French (the Finnish in me just wants to have someone bring me a reindeer to my cabin doorstep and throw it on a spit over the fire while I sit in the sauna drinking vodka). So one thing that I'm quite sad about leaving behind is Jamie. Yes, Jamie Oliver.
Now while it is quite true that I wholeheartedly plan on doing some Jamie stalking cough, erm, restaurant reconaissance while I'm in the UK, I'm sad about having to leave all of my books behind. You see, my Jamie books are what I go to for cooking inspiration. Whenever I'm stuck on what to make for myself, I crack open one of my Jamie books and find something that inspires me. It doesn't have to be a recipe itself. It can be a picture, an ingredient, a cooking technique. I find whenever I am in a pinch, Jamie is there to help me get it done. Which is why I am so sad about leaving the books behind.
Living on my own is going to be an exciting transition. I really enjoyed last summer in Russia when I had a taste of independence. Especially cooking for myself. Given Fiona and I usually cooked meals together, but being in the kitchen is something I have always enjoyed. I primarily see cooking as a survival skill, and secondly as a means of a fun hobby that brings family and friends together. Also as a de-stressor, an artist's canvas, a heritage exploration and a cultural travel experience.
I'm looking forward to new cuisines. Even if everyone says most British food is crap.