Back from Berkeley (posted by Sarah)

Well, it seems Justin may have made a broken promise. We didn't take any pictures! But, to make up for it, I've included a very well-lit picture of our new apartment building that was taken from a very flattering angle. Yes, we found an apartment!!!

Thursday, we spent the day driving and walking around Berkeley, marking off a map with a big area that we considered "safe zone" for an apartment. We knew we had one apartment appointment at 6pm, but really...what are the chances of looking at one place and deciding it was the place for us? Well, it happened, so the safe zone map went to a very lucky wife of one of the newly admitted students. Well, okay, let's say we're not 100% in yet, because they still have to check our credit scores and call our landlord references. Unless the credit bureau or a former landlord is out to get one of us, we should be all set. We'll let you know when it's official.

The place is great. It is a two bedroom on University Avenue. You can check out the details by clicking ME! The apartment is kind of small, but everything is brand new, there is plenty of storage space, it is in a great neighborhood, there is a grocery store right across the street, and the BART stop is three blocks away. A special note to my mom: the building is constructed with seismic reinforcement, the latest in earthquake safe architectural innovation. So, we'll be safe if there's an earthquake...as long as we happen to be in our apartment :)

Friday I spent the day with the other admitted students. We saw panels of current students, alumni, professors, etc. Sounds exciting, huh? The best part...I was forced, against everything I believe in, to participate in karaoke. It was a scene unmatched by any other. I have spent the past three days thanking my lucky stars that no one had a video camera. Did I mention I sang the Backstreet Boys?

Friday night we met back up with Allison and Brian. Brian works at a pretty famous comedy club, and we were treated VIP style to a free comedy show, drinks and dinner. Very funny stuff...most of which I would feel dirty repeating.

Saturday we took it easy. We spent the afternoon with Allison and Brian and then went out to dinner with June and Bill. They treated us to a wonderful French dinner, and we had a great time. Justin wimped out and got the boar. I was daring and went with the chicken. That Justin never tries anything new!

Anyway, we will keep you all in the loop as new updates emerge! Thanks for listening...