2012 is most definitely a year to remember for Great Britain, not only does it mark the end of the Aztec Calendar but also the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympic Games.
If you had told me five months ago, as I counted down the chimes of Big Ben to the start of the new year, that the following twelve months were set to contain days that I would remember and cherish for the rest of my life - I probably wouldn't have believed you. Yes, I knew that the Olympics would be great for the country and yes I was looking forward to the extra bank holiday we would all receive to celebrate sixty years of HRH Elizabeth II on the throne. But what I was not prepared for was the great sense of pride I have felt for my country over the last month.
As a student at the University of Exeter, I have been lucky enough to take part in celebrations for both of these national events. Earlier this month the Queen paid a visit to the University as part of her tour of the country and to open The Forum - a new and versatile building at the heart of the Streatham campus.
It wasn't until the night before the 'big day' that I realised I was actually quite excited about the arrival of the Queen, but when the day arrived I found myself eagerly waiting for an hour and a half on campus to try and catch a glimpse of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Unfortunately, at a respectable 5'2" - I am not a tall person. So, when the car drove down towards the forum I was just able to see the royal flag waving from the roof of the car.
As the crowds began to disperse I felt incredibly disappointed, which caught me by surprise - it wasn't until this point that I was aware of quite how patriotic I was: I had loved seeing a sea of Union Jacks waving to welcome the royal pair and the loud cheers that followed the car as it drove around campus brought a huge smile to my face.
However, my disappointment was short lived. As I began to walk across campus towards the Student bar, my house mate, who was acting as a steward for the day told me to wait where I was because the Queen would be arriving at that spot in the following ten minutes - well you know what they say, it's not what you know; it's who you know! So I took this advice, and sure enough ten minutes later the royal car drove by.
I wasn't prepared for the awe I felt as her majesty drove past the few of us stood on the pavement and waved to each of us. Queen Elizabeth is a figure I have always been aware of - I see her face on a daily basis when paying for food and clothes, and often see her appear on the evening news. However, seeing her in person was such a different experience. I suddenly became incredibly happy and had the biggest smile on my face. Although only one lady, the excitement and joy that her presence sparked on campus that day was incredible - even the weather paid it's respects by becoming incredibly hot and sunny only moments before she arrived!
The day continued to only get better. I was able to enjoy the hot sun whilst listening to University Choirs sing and perform and was able to watch the Queen leave the University.
Following the visit it was on into the Forum and again, I was amazed. I had heard a great deal about the project through numerous emails and word of mouth, but despite this I was still not expecting to be quite so impressed. To sweeten the deal even further, we were provided with free cup cakes and ice cream - and anyone that knows me is well aware that when supplied with free food I am a very happy girl!
The royal visit really was a great day and lifted everyone's spirits, a much needed boost for many during exam season! I have always thought that countries such as America are far more patriotic of their country than Great Britain is, and this is something I have often envied. But today - as I walked about Exeter with one of my best friends whilst sharing an ice cream and enjoying the celebrations that had been put on for the Olympic torch - I looked around me and saw a real community. Everyone was smiling, laughing and having fun: Union Jacks were being waved left, right and centre and faces painted red white and blue proved to be a popular choice.
I guess that's what it means to be patriotic - to love your country and the place in which you live. Well this month, I can say I could not have enjoyed my stay in Exeter more and as the country continues to celebrate its great events over the coming months I will cherish every moment so that I can one day tell my grand children of the many wonderful events our country put on, just as my Grandparents tell me of the 'golden days' when they were young.
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