Posted by Maggie
First things first. I just wanted to say that I had a fabulous time at the Graduation Ball a couple weeks ago. The weather was on our side, thank God. It was a beautiful and warm evening. Excitement was definitely palpable on the school ground pre-soiree. Everybody, and I mean everybody, looked absolutely stunning that night! The students huddled in groups, checking out others' outfits and giggling like mad.
When the 188 bus came, everyone boarded and we were on our way to the Greenwich Pier (which I recently discovered was in fact called Cutty Sark Gardens). There were a few latecomers but all was well and at 8.15 (or so), we left the dock for what proved to be a wonderful night, filled with equally wonderful memories. A glass of bubbly is, without a doubt, mandatory once we were on the boat. As we clinked our glasses and proposed silly toasts, I realized I've been in London for nine months. Time is a very strange concept. Lately, I feel as though time and I were playing this game called "Catch-me-if-you-can". Only time is winning. That's why I've decided to live my life to the fullest, as if it's the last day. No regrets. Just living in the moment. And make it worth it.
Alright! Enough of my neurosis now, back to the party. The party was incredible. There were a few amazing performances, commenced by Yusuke and Eleanor's rendition of a song... whose title I couldn't quite remember. All I could remember was the intensity of Yusuke's solo - it was off-the-hook. You could almost feel this electrifying vibe radiating from him and his violin. Eleanor provided a steady beat and melody on the keyboard that complemented Yusuke's part. Everybody loved it. The applause went on for what seemed like milleniums! Afterwards, we witnessed the moves of the year, only better when our beloved Bellerbys students showed them off! The Russian ladies strutted their thangs and flipped their hair back while the boys did their own thing. It was like a hip-hop comeback and the dance was so hot that some people requested for an encore! Unbelievable, I know.
Some prizes were given out - like the Best Dressed for the Lady and the Gent which went to Ting Ting, who wore a subtle and elegant kimono get-up and Ian, who pulled off this luxe tuxe look, accessorized with a quirky tie with Elvis' face splattered across it. They were awarded a bottle of Cava each - which I took advantage of. Then there was the King and Queen. Melina - a very very pretty and smart girl from A5 took the crown and a Nigerian boy whose name I couldn't remember became King (and I assure you, he sure is handsome).
The night was in full swing. The bar was packed with people, the casino was packed with people, the dance floor was packed with people. Everywhere you go - there was somebody. And don't forget, the flashing lights!!! I believe the photos taken that night exceed the Oscars red carpet pictures. Loads of us went outside when we were crossing Tower Bridge - only underneath it. We were screaming and laughing our heads off, waving at confused-looking tourists.

The boat stopped over at Westminster and some people left and continued partying in Central London. I stayed on (though I did go partying after we got back to Greenwich) and tore the dance floor apart with my girls and boys! Then, I went down to the casino and won quite a bit of chips at the Blackjack table! Too bad they're not real money. Anyhow, it was good fun. Just like the night. It was packed with glam and that's how we like it.
We also had a prize-giving ceremony recently, which was held at the Greenwich University. The staff body was hilarious, as usual, and gave different awards to the deserving students from different groups like the ELPP, Foundation and lastly, A Level. I got a little present as well, for being one of the student ambassadors. I had a tiny dilemma with my belt that day. It kept coming off! When I walked to the stage, all I could think of was, "Snap snap snap, what if my belt just bursts apart?!" I would be the laughing stock of the school. Thank God it didn't fall off.Phew.
After a whole week of grueling exams, suddenly, reality dawned on me. I sit on my desk now, blogging at 2am to tell you how stoked and psyched I am for the summer of 2009! There are several loose ends left for me to sort out, then I'm off! I just can't believe it's already been a year since I first arrived in London. Well, not a year yet but close enough.
I'm no longer the girl who gets lost while trying to find her way to IKEA in Wembley. I'm the girl who takes my friends and Mother around in London, as if I've lived here for my whole life. London has integrated into every single crumb of my soul. I'm definitely going to miss London this summer. Most of all, I'm going to miss all the awesome people I've met in Bellerbys and my closest friends from the college. You know who you are. My dearest flat-mates, I know that next year, we won't live together but remember, flat 5 is probably the most amazing flat that has ever existed on this planet. You girls were amazing. You put up with my constant loud music and late-night disturbances, begging for food. And anyone who feeds me good stuff, well, it goes without saying that I'll love you for the rest of my life. Also, I promise, when I return in September, I'll have heaps of tales to share for everybody!
Until then, I wish you all a splendid and marvelous summer and see you when we all get back!
With love,
Maggie.