Settled in.

Where to begin?
Well, so much has happened since my last post. I apologize to my family for not updating frequently enough... I just became tired of trying to type on my iPod. But, thanks to Mom, I have my laptop now (along with winter coat and Canadian junk food goodies which I have gorged myself on for the past few hours... I don't even care if my tummy hurts a little- so worth it.)!
I'll start back at the end of October.
I went with Fiona to her grandparent's place in Dunoon. In short, my week was unbelievably wonderful. Her family spoiled us to no end. We ate like royalty and had hot showers, which is something I have dearly come to appreciate after staying in hostels. I lost ten lbs. before going to Dunoon... I gained at least half of that back in a week from eating so much (luckily, I lost it thanks to a nasty flu bug a week later). Fiona's parents came to Dunoon as well, and I met more of her extended family. They must be the nicest and most hospitable people in the world. I got to do a lot of cool things during my stay as well; Inverary Prison Museum, walking in Argyll Forest, a steam boat ride (during which we sailed past a base where the US houses some of its nuclear weapons) and driving past Inverary Castle- home of the Duke of Argyll and cheif of Clan Campbell who happens to be the heir of Cadbury chocolate. I was sad to leave her grandparent's place after such a lovely week, and was very touched when they invited me back whenever I pleased.
Back to Edinburgh.
I checked into Edinburgh Backpackers and got a position to work for accomodation while I looked for my own place. I was really sick that week, but I luckily found a place within a week! I moved into my flat on November 1st. My flatmates are both lovely people; a twenty-seven year old Australian girl and a twenty-two year old Irish girl. Ameen and Emma came over to celebrate a couple weeks later with three bottles of red wine and I made some pretty good quesadillas, if I may say so.
On November 5th, I started my job as a salesgirl at a souvenir shop on the Royal Mile. It's not a bad job, and I'm learning a lot. I wouldn't mind something with a few more hours, and I miss working in a pub... but it's cool for now. I'm very pleased to have a job! Can't complain.
The Christmas markets are set up in the Princes Street Gardens now... They are, in a nutshell, magical. An ice rink, ferris wheel, rides, wooden German market stalls alight with sparkling tree-lights, hot chocolate, mulled wine, mulled cider, German beer, sausages, chocolates... I could go on and on.. It's so wonderful. I've been twice now, just to walk around. I'm hoping to go back soon to explore more and maybe sample some Christmas delights.
I can't believe it's December already...the time has certainly flown by. I've been gone almost three months! It's a little mind blowing, but I'm happy, safe and sound.
Much love, and more regular updates to come.