This past Friday was the wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton took place. This event not only brought a reason for celebration for the UK, but a day of break for students. While I'd like to say I watched the wedding, I never had a chance to see even a minute of it. I went straight to work and only saw a few minutes of the USA's version of their meeting. As misleading as it is, it provided entertainment for a late night poker game.
Before I talk about Saturday night, a bit of St. Andrews lore. Some few hundred years ago a man was out at East Sands (one of the three beaches) when he saw five distressed sailors out at sea. Realizing their trouble, he swam out to them and brought them to shore. In honor of said man it has become a student tradition that on the first day of May students, at dawn, run into the sea. People now believe that the event, known as May Dip, has cleansing powers.
This Saturday night to Sunday morning I participated in May Dip along with thousands of others students. People gathered early on to start bon fires and play music. By 3a.m., when we arrived, groups were present in clothing, swimsuits, and lack of clothing all preparing to run into the sea. Around 4a.m. as the sun was beginning to rise and it was light in the eastern sky group by group we all ran in. Some once, some twice. Thousands ran in and out. I plan to participate my next three years.
The next day, Sunday, began a long day of work at the cafe. A school society was hosting a breakfast for its members. Unfortunately for us at the cafe, this breakfast involved crate upon crate of champagne. Instead of serving or cleaning for this shift, I was told to act bouncer and make sure no alcohol left the building. About ten tried, but even drunks will listen to reason when it comes down to it.
Some culture for you guys :).
