Saturday, September 5, 2009

Oh, the Internet.

I have realized that one problem with not just making a video on YouTube saying "Alex broke up with me and that's why I am sad in London and miss things like Poptarts and home," is that a lot of people (naturally) don't know what's going on.
When I made my video about missing my comfort foods from home, I got a lot of really bitchy comments from people who thought I just was some closed-minded American who doesn't like all the new things I am experiencing over here telling me to "go back to America if I hate it so much".

I don't really know what to do about these comments. I hate when people assume they understand a situation when they are so far off base, and I know there is nothing I can really do to fix it, given the nature of the situation and my life and the Internet.

Especially because in actuality, I LOVE England. I adore so much about the UK; I fell in love with Edinburgh, I'm coming around to a lot of the food here, I've met so many great and amazing people, I'm really impressed with the tube system - most of my "complaining" is just because I had my heart broken for the very first time here, in a foreign place, and had nothing familiar to me at all to distract or comfort me. I missed things like Jamba Juice and Poptarts and, you know, my mom, because I wanted to feel comfortable - and nothing about this country felt comfortable because it was all equated to the one person who was making me upset.
So, yes. I am tired of seeing red buses because I remember riding on them with him. I am tired of walking past Big Ben because my mind flashes back to the picture I had on my desktop for 4 months of us in front of it. It's unfair to equate these emotions to an entire city, but right now that's just the way it is for me.

Okay. So some people don't think I deserve to win a trip to Antarctica. That's fine. I never said anyone HAD to vote for me. By all means, vote for whoever you think deserves to win.
But don't tell me I shouldn't even apply because "maybe the guy who is currently winning will not have any other chance to travel" or something stupid. It's a CONTEST.

And maybe I don't write as well as Hayley. But while the Quark Expedition is a contest, blogging is not. I write to express myself. I write to record the things I do and see and experience. And especially lately, I write because I am dealing with a lot of things, and this blog is one of the only things that feels familiar. I don't write to be the best at it.



I'm staying with my friend Claire tonight, who is currently making us dinner, and tomorrow I leave for Rome. Never a dull moment over here.

Edit: I've just been informed on twitter that I am in 8th place out of 566 applicants. IN ONE DAY. Clearly a whole lot more of you think I should go than the few who don't. :D

Days until I leave: 19
Times I've had Indian Food: 12

131 comments:

Anonymous said...

I love you. Think of the beach.

genevieve said...

I think it's ridiculous for anyone to assume that you're being close-minded about England. I'd like to see THEM enjoy being in a foreign city under circumstnaces like yours! JUST IGNORE IT, Kristina. I don't blame you one bit...you shouldn't have to explain yourself...
and also, you totally deserve to go to Antarctica as much as any other blogger! I mean, jeez, its just a blogger contest not the Pulitzer Prize or something! I'm voting for you :)

Wyatthaplo said...

Youtube has haters who will latch onto any reason to hate. The people who know you are the only ones whos opinions matter really. I would just reply with some witty comments and laugh it off. Im sure you and Claire can think of some great comebacks. :) Enjoy dinner and the rest of your trip. <3

iola_whitten said...

Have fun in rome :)

Maggie FTW said...

I can't even imagine how hard it is for you to be in London and to have to go through a breakup. I was getting homesick and I only went for 3 weeks over the summer and I stayed with my sister. You have the right to want some sort of comfort, and it is YOUR blog and YOUR youtube channel, so write and vlog about it as you will.

And I read your blog entry for Antarctica, and then read your blog, because I hadn't before. You definitely deserve to win. You are very loyal to your readers and you are good at blogging. I voted for you, and good luck!

Anonymous said...

there will always be people that will find someone who has had a modicum of success in something and take every chance they get to be mean and spiteful.

don't let the haters get you down. just remember that no one can make you feel inferior without your permission, and you're amazing. :)

i'm voting for you, too! best of luck xx

Julia said...

I voted for you because I think you are a good writer and you would tell truthfully what it would be like to be in Antarctica. Your writing makes me feel like I am experiencing these things with you.
I want to read about how it is in Antarctica, but really experience it!
Good luck! Enjoy the rest of the trip, Rome is amazing!

TicTacKitCat said...

a) you deserve to go to antarctica as much as the next person, plus I really enjoy your style of blogging so it would be great to here your opinions of of it

b) I can see how London right now could bring back sad memories. when you see a hater comment just think of a random inside joke (like the Indian food one) and how your blog followers are here for you

c)Have fun in Rome <3

Anonymous said...

Wow, I can't believe youtube people take things so seriously!

Well, I guess like you said, they really have no idea whats going on.

Good luck on the contest, and I twitter-replied to you the other day just to say I voted for you and I think you deserve to win.

:-D

globalgamble said...

You don't deserve to win because you have no passion for the prize. Besides, you whine .. a lot! The person that deserves to win is the person that has a passion for the environment, science, and the spirit the explorers that blow in those 120 mph gales. You don't even seem to be a serious adventurer.

Your traveling woes are not unique and your blog is at best a second rate novella.

ThePeterIs said...

"I don't really know what to do about these comments."

IGNORE THEM

The only opinions of you that matter are the ones that you choose to let matter.

blab said...

oh gosh people annoy me sometimes, the people that say "gosh your such a close minded tourist!" when their the ones being close minded by thinking they know everything thats going on when they don't!

electronic hugs for everyone who gets stupid hater youtube comments!

Hayley Hoover said...

Sweetie, you are a FANTASTIC writer, and anyone who says otherwise can suck my dick.

Hamza said...

hey kristina,

i love your blog. it's as good as harry potter, but with harry potter, we couldn't read it everyday (!) I swear you are the next JKRowling, you are a tremendous writer with amazing talent. Don't let these idiots put you down, as you are an inspiration to a lot of people out there ! XXXX

P.S You really do deserve to go on the Antartica trip, as you worked your ass off writing blogs, and for you to go to Antarctica will not only be an experience for you, but for your blog readers as we will enjoy EVERY word you write whilst in the freezinf cold climate

much love,
voter 98,
hamza
x

Haley said...

I think that there has been just as much happy on this blog (and youtube and wherever else) as sad. You seem so passionate...when you're happy, you're REALLY happy, and when you're sad, life kind of really sucks. I mean, just LOOK at the way you gesticulate wildly with your hands in your videos, hmm? It's one of the reasons why I follow your blog and subscribe to you...because you are always living life to the fullest extent that it can be lived and feeling it so intensely all the while.

Louise Morgan said...

Just so you know, for every hater comment, there's a billion other people who don't comment but who love your videos, your music and your blogs. :] <3

Sarah said...

Don't worry about the haters, they have nothing better to do! Why are people even comparing your blog with Hayley's? You guys are both great at it in your own seperate ways.

Hayley's right, they can all suck on it.

Ashleigh said...

Kristina,
Forget the haters, they think they know everything, when in reality they no nothing. The people who you need to listen to are your family and friends, but most importantly you.
If you feel it worthy of your blog, or you want to write about something that is personal to you, or something you have done, then do it. forget the world. Those that love you will always love you, those that dont never will. Remember that.


I really hope you win because you deserve it!

Lots of love and luck,

Ashleigh xx

Ravenclaw2313 said...

@globalgamble It's nice to see people joining blogger just to put Kristina down. Really we appreciate that you would take the time to set up an account just so you could be a hater. Being an environmentalist is not part of the requirements. Wanting to take pictures of penguins is listed too, and who doesn't want to do that?

Kristina if you want to travel to Antarctica a) I think you're crazy. Soooo soooo sooo cold. b) then do it. I already voted and obviously this is something that you would like to do so why shouldn't we be supportive?

Also I have realized that the benefit to being unknown on youtube is that ALL my comments are friends says "that was great".

Enjoy the rest of your trip Little Cushion.

Stefan said...

I know I'm not going to Antarctica anytime soon so who better to send then you? I know you'd be good at reporting back!

Thomas said...

I really hope that the one insensitive comment doesn't make you doubt the amount people are willing to support you. Your writing is honest, passionate and warm. It feels like it's written from a friend, not some distant person. I think the fact that the commenter used Hayley as an example shows their ignorance, especially as Hayley will always be the first to support you.

will said...

I don't want to criticize writing styles and say one person is better than another or anything like that.

I agree. Neither life nor blogging have to be a competition. We can love two people equally, even if they are different or seemingly incomparable.

I don't know if you write as well as Hayley. Honestly, I didn't get here because of months of loyalty to the 5AG (regrettably). I am here because you make youtube videos with tangible feelings. When you are happy it makes me feel happy. When you say that you're going to get Indian food, it makes me want to get Indian food. You live life in a very real way and convey your perspective so fluidly. That's why I like you. It doesn't mean I don't like some other blogger or vlogger or tweeter or something. It just means that's why I like you.

Thanks for being so fun.

Me said...

What exactly are Pop Tarts? I've never had them. :|

Congratulations on 8th place so far! :) I am definitely going to see if I can vote again tomorrow, as I am really hoping you win this competition.

Good luck with the journey to Rome. Start brushing up on your Italian! I want to hear all about it; I've never been to Italy. :)

DFTBA

Sophie said...

YOU GO KRISTINA!

Also, I feel that you are a lovely writer and totally deserve to go to Antarctica.
Have fun in Rome!

seurat2 said...

I just wrote a long reasonable response but it really just says what everyone else here is saying but not as well. So, two things, I voted for you without a moment of hesitation and I've never even met you. And two, what Eia wrote is perfect. Just listen to her.

erin meagan said...

I love you.

Ceci said...

People suck; you're ace. Arrivederci!

Ana said...

You know what it's like, Kristina, people LIKE and WANT to be mean on the Internet. They're unable to get inside their heads that your life isn't just YouTube and you don't expose your whole life on it. Some people are just... ahhhh.

Have an AWESOME time in Rome :D <3

Sarah said...

It makes me sad that, through no fault of your own, you have all these bad memories associated with London; it's such a diverse and cultural place and I couldn't imagine living anywhere else. I really hope you can come back here one day and replace those bad memories with good ones ;)
I think your blogging style is very honest and real, and I for one feel you deserve a nice holiday!

Ida said...

I adore you and your blog/vlog because you're honest and not trying to be something your not. I don't get people who can't read blogs unless they're written by... a bestselling author or that quality (Stephenie Meyer and Dan Brown of course not included on the quality part). Come on.

And I hope you have a fucking awesome time in Antarctica, because you're gonna win, and bring me a penguin if you're stopping by Sweden on your way home.

Hannah said...

KRISTINA! (I hope I don't sound too stalker-ish here). I love you, your blogs, and your videos. It's so unfair that you've had to go through so much in a trip that should be filled with happier things. Try and ignore the haters, I doubt that they have any inkling about what you've been through this past month. They think they know everything! But they don't - and that's the important thing here! I hope you can put the haters to the back of your mind and try to enjoy the rest of your trip, the UK is a pretty great place (there aren't many Brits who would actually admit to liking it here though).
Good luck with everything, and enjoy the rest of your trip!

Hannah xx

Faith said...

I personally think that after everything you've been through, you need to win a contest and have fun!

So, have fun in the UK!

Brianna said...

Wow, people are really lame. Hating on you like that. I'm so sorry kristina. None of those people realize all the crap you have had to go through I guess. It's hard, and you have a right to complain.

I voted last night and I really hope you win it because you deserve it. Seriously.

And I love reading your blog just so you know. :)

Brandy said...

Personally I think everyone deserves a trip to Antarctica. It's such an amazing opportunity and I personally would love to read of your adventures there.

Anyone who has something bad to say about missing the comforts of home is just plain nutso. Even if you utterly LOVE where you are a part of you will always find a comfort in home that you can't get anywhere else.

I hope this trip continues to get better for you and that you win your contest.

Lizzie said...

Just smile, hun! :D

People who slag off strangers on the internet just do so because in real life no one cares about what they have to say but people care about what you have to say. You have 25,162 subscribers for goodness sake!

It was nice to see you smiling on your video :D

Semalicous said...

If you make it to Antartica, I want a video of you attempting to get into a giant huddle of penguins and attempt that move where they all slide down the glacier and into the ocean... get to know the locals, I'm sure an emperor is far nicer than your average brit XD

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry people are being ridiculous... but you have to remember this IS the internet. not everyone who sees something you write or a video you make knows who you are or your situation. They are taking that particular video or blog out of context. they don't see the whole picture, and don't know what's going on. They don't know how awesome you are! so don't let it get to you, anyone who knows you knows you're not being whiny or childish, you're simply living life. to tell the truth, if this had happened to me... I would be fairing way worse. You're doing great... know that you have people irl who love you, and lots on the internet too! I'm glad you're feeling slightly better though :)

iamajedii said...

Aww. I'm so sorry to hear that. Don't listen to those idiots. You're a wonderful person. Feel better!!! <3

Anonymous said...

Hey you know waht no worries! Things can be really really crappy for a while but they always pick up! Just think of the fun/good things in life HP, Vlogbrothers, Indian food, and Jamba Juice... good luck on the contest!

Emily said...

After following your blog pretty regular for almost a year now, I voted for you. I think you deserve to go and that you make the most out of every situation. Everyone has more than one chance to travel, sometimes you just have to work for it. It is a contest, so it's not like you have an unfair advantage by having people vote for you.

Tracy said...

I virtually never leave comments on anything (I'm one those "I-don't-mean-to-be-creepy-but-mostly-I-just-watch-you-and-stay-invisible-because-I'm-scared" sorts of folks), and I haven't even been following your b/vlogs all that closely.

But, even though I don't have anything especially profound to say, I just wanted you to know that someone cares. I've read your last month or so of posts and I can tell how much it hurts. I want to give you big hug and say that everything will be fine, but everyone knows that's mostly useless... The truth is that the end of a relationship is just ridiculously painful and confusing and disorienting. And that's without being in a foreign country and having thousands of people follow you on the internet. I can't even imagine how much more impossible it must be for you, so I admire you intensely for facing it the best that you can. Keep on doing whatever you need to do and your friends will be here to support you.

Kaitlyn w/ a K said...

I'm really, really sorry that you're sad. I hate that your England adventure is being ruined by life circumstances. I do think you'll have an amazing time in Rome, though. It's my favorite city in the world. It's magical and makes you feel like time can't touch you.

I hope you get to go to Antarctica so that I can hear/read all about it! :-)

Phyllis said...

who are these awful people say these mean things about blogging!? don't listen to them at all. you say your blog makes you feel better? well it makes us feel great too. i love reading your blog. i wouldn't person go to Antartica, but if you want to bring us there... well jeez, I wish I could vote 10 times.

Nicole said...

I voted for you and I think you deserve to win. I love reading your blog. Just try to ignore the hater comments. Like someone said above, to every hater there are loads of people who enjoy your videos and your blog and like you! Hope you have fun in Rome. Eat lots of pizza and ice-cream :P

Unknown said...

Yeah, I hate the internet sometimes.

And by hate the internet, I mean I'm pretty much addicted to it and everything about it, but it pisses me off when people are assholes in any capacity.

None of these pissants will be able to get to you when you're chilling (literally) with the penguins because of the thousands of people who loved you and your videos AND your blogs enough to send you to Antarctica.

Anonymous said...

Don't worry about the few haters out there. They wish they had your life.

You deserve to go to Antarctica as much as anyone else. The contest isn't designed for the person who has traveled the least to win. As for complaining about England, I'm sure anyone would feel the same way if they were in your situation. Have fun in Rome :)

Anonymous said...

I voted for you because I love reading your entries. When you are really happy, I feel happy, when you are excited, I get excited for you, it feels genuine. I would love to see this trip from your perspective. And you are also a lovely person :)

And don't listen to them. If you feel like you are doing the right thing, if it is what you want, then you shouldn't have to explain yourself. There will always be at least one person that will say a negative thing, it's the way it is. But know that a lot of people support you and feel like you deserve it. And you know what? even if you didn't have this support, if you are sure and want this then that is all you need.

I hope you win! :)

Sarah said...

People can be really stupid sometimes...missing things like pop tarts doesn't mean you're ungrateful and should go back to America. They don't need to know that you and Alex broke up, you are allowed to miss things about home even when you are having fun traveling. Just ignore the dumb people and only take in the good comments you get because that's all you deserve.

And I hope you win the Antarctica trip for multiple reasons. A) I believe you are one of the most deserving people to win because you appreciate everything that comes your way, B) if you win, it's as if thousands of other people are also winning since you're sure to talk about it on your blog, personal youtube channel, and/or 5AGs meaning we all get to here how awesome it was as well, and C) I like you and just plain want you to be happy and win the trip. So for all those reasons, I hope you win =] I voted and I put the link up on my facebook and will be forcing my friends to vote for you as well haha.

imagryffindork said...

*hugs kristina*
i love how if you read what its tagged as its like a itle extra bit of the blog. :)

Aylish said...

I think maybe it can seem like you are being a bit dramatic about the situation, but then I remember that it probably feels that dramatic for you because I remember feeling like that and I got to curl up in bed and watch Bridget Jones, eat tons of biscuits and gulp down a million cups of tea. So I think you have every right to moan a bit about the situation, and it's not like you aren't blogging/tweeting about good stuff too, so some people are just being ridiculous if they are saying things like you don't deserve to go to Antartica. I think you deserve to go, I voted :) number 99 to vote as well. I love how truthful you are in your blog.

Anonymous said...

Kristina, honestly just ignore the comments about that you should go back to America. They hardly know anything about your life, but assume that they can judge you because you are "famous". You (probably) don't know anything about their lives either, so in the context of your life they don't matter all that much. You are entitled to miss things from home or from where you felt safe. Many people everyday miss their childhood or an item in their past that they want to feel safe and to me saying "go back to America" is as rational as "go back to your childhood".

In regards to you not writing as well as Hayley, I don't agree. You can both write brilliantly, (and better than me) but I enjoy yours more. In fact, your blog is my second favourite blog to read, the first is an acquaintance of mine in real life that I don't talk to that often and I love her style of writing. I honestly would prefer to read your blog than to read John Green's - I'm not saying that to me a suck up or anything, or to make you like me or whatever weird people lie for. If your blog was in the middle of my favourite blogs
to read I would tell you so. I just want to make it clear that I'm telling the truth.

Just keep telling yourself that your life could be worse, that and when viewed as a whole there are only a few or so problems (or maybe more; I'm not you).

To me, you are an inspiration, you haven't given up and gone back to America despite the problems that did happen, you are an extremely talented musician, singer, writer and video maker - I just wish that I could do those things half as well as you. On top of it all, you make it look so easy. I admit I am a little bit jealous even though I still only 17, I continue to feel as if I may not be the success I want to be or that my peers & family expect of me.

I think we can both agree that August 2009 sucked a lot, but had its amazing parts too.

maddy said...

Kristina-
I love your blog. Don't listen to all of those haters. You are a wonderful person (and a wonderful writer/blogger). Have fun in Rome, and I hope that things start looking up soon :)

Crystal said...

"Use what talents you possess; the woods would be very silent if no birds sang except those that sang best." -Henry Van Dyke

John said...

Ignore anyone who says you don't deserve to win the contest and I would love you to have the opertunity!

I just wish you all the best atm as I don't know what your going through all I can do is empathise and just hope you win the contest.

Indigo said...

Just ignore all the haters, they don't mean a thing.

And I think you are a great writer, by the way.

Anonymous said...

Voted for you. Count stands at 754 vs less than 100 for everyone else. 8)

bassrocks9 said...

Kristina, it may be true that Hayley's blog can turn an 18-year-old's day to day activities into long eloquent paragraphs that lead her readers to feel inferior to her in every way, but your style of blogging is so relatable and personal and fun. I do have fun reading your blog. And I have really high hopes for the contest because in the few hours that got the most popular entrant about 10 votes, you got almost 100. Plus, you're pretty. :)

Anonymous said...

Kristina, it's YOUTUBE. Don't let the commenters bring you down. People like to make assumptions.

Besides, anyone who has nothing better to do than go through random videos just to diss the people in them clearly have no room to talk.

SkittleStar said...

Oh honey, people can be so thick sometimes. Of course you're going to be feeling homesick, you'd be feeling that under normal circumstances - let alone going through a break up at the same time.
I'm going through something similar myself, only I was strung along for the last three months, and even after everything I'm still in love with the bastard.
No one but you really knows what you're going through but you, but you're friends are there to offer love and support, which you really need at the moment <3 having someone you love break up with you is one of the worst pains anyone can ever experience, especially if you still love them or have feelings for them.
I'd say just try to take your mind of it as much as possible, if you can't be with others read or..dance just whatever makes you feel good =]

Olivia said...

I love your blog and your writing.

Some people are mean and critical and delight in offering their opinion on things they know nothing about. I try to ignore these people and hope they go away.

Good luck!

Unknown said...

Kristina, I think you are a wonderful writer. I love reading your blog and it's always a nice surprise to see you've posted something new. Ha, sometimes if I'm procrastinating on doing my homework or something by messing around on the internet and then I see you've posted a new blog, I get off the internet without reading it so I can read it after I finish my homework so I have to motivate me to finish. Hell, you are gonna be a published author soon, right? Don't let the haters let you down, everyone else loves you and your blog, and I can't wait to read your blogs about Antarctica.

LolaLuves said...

You're amazing.
That's all I have to say.

Anonymous said...

Aww, Kristina. =[

I don't normally comment on your blog, but I read it religiously. I went on vacation without internet for 3 weeks in July and one of the only things I made an effort to catch up on was your blog. I even only use blogger to read your blog and Hayley's. (I've ranted like a madwoman twice on this blog and that's all the use I've gotten out of it. I really just come to this site to read.)

So anyway, today wasn't probably the best day to comment, as you have loads of them already, but I wanted to say that we're all here for you and that you lead one of the most amazing lives I can even imagine. I know you're having a tough time, but it'll get better, I promise.
People can be really awful, but like Hayley's comment said, they can suck her dick.
And if you and what's-his-name were to have had a custody battle over your mutual subscribers, my friends and I all agreed, we'd have stuck by you.

Anonymous said...

I really hope you get to go to Antarctica. That would be so awesome to read your blog posts and see you make videos while you're on what looks like an incredible trip. I looked at the whole package--it looks insane, and as you said, a life-changing experience.
I also hope you win because the other people just don't seem like they would blog about it in such a fun and entertaining way as you would. I've told a few friends about it, and since you still have three weeks or so, I think you've got it in the bag! You should make a video about it. You might get some negative comments, but I'm sure SO many of your yt subscribers would vote for you. Good luck!

agioacchini said...

I hope you get to go to Antarctica. I'd love reading your blog entries from that trip. =]

Dee said...

People who criticize you about things you miss are the close-minded ones. I'm sure most people that have experienced being in a different place (not even country), alone, can be very stressful and sometimes depressing. When I'm feeling sad, I think of things I would take for granted before, just because they're familiar and an anchor to sanity. Some person in the comments says you whine (a lot), but I say: First of all, it's your personal blog. It's not about fashion, or literature, or fracking politics. It's about your own life experiences. Second of all, if you don't like what a person writes about, if you don't like a person, why do you bother reading a blog and actually commenting on it? Those people are a waste of space.

James said...

As for the American plugs in hotels, (from your Dublin blog, I just felt you would be more likely to read these comments lol) I went to Ireland earlier in August (I'm from NY) and every hotel I went to were happy to give me a UK - US converter thingy for my plugs. Dont be afraid to ask the front desk! ^_^

Emily said...

It's totally okay for you to feel sad because of memories you associate with things in London, and anyone who says otherwise is just an idiot. And stupid. :]

I voted for you to go to Antarctica! I hope you win, that would be incredible!

Anonymous said...

I think you're so brave for even having the courage to go to Europe for so long and experience as much as you have! I'm sorry you're going through so much so far from home<3 I can't even imagine how tough it must be. I had a dream with you in it one night after watching one or your Fiesta mission videos before bed. I told you that I watched your videos. You were sitting with some people making crafts :P Hi. I'm Julie. Please don't think I'm a creep!

Kristen said...

I just voted. For you. Have a great time in the frozen south! Oh, yeah, and that Rome is awesome for you : ) (though all it does for me is get that B-52s song stuck in my head.)

Anonymous said...

I hope you get the chance to blog while in Antarctica and vlog! =)

Good luck with the rest of your stay in the UK. I wish you the best.

Anonymous said...

Haters are going to hate, you just got to learn to ignore them. They're all just jealous of you.

They also don't know what's going on in your life, so who are they to judge?

You're an incredible writer, don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

You also deserve to go to Antarctica as much as the other contestants. Also, congratulations on 8th place! How badass are you?!

And as for that blog reader: If you don't think Kristina's a good writer, don't read her blog! There's an issue you can solve.

Anyways, HAVE FUN IN ROME KRISTINA!

Stay strong <3

♥nerdhugger said...

I voted for you, Kristina, and I'm sorry to hear about how much trouble you're having lately. Don't listen to the people who have bad things to say. We all care about you, and I hope that you can enjoy your time there, regardless.

Christopher said...

Let me know if want a guide around Rome. I know the city pretty well. Plus I know where all the Indian restuarants are. ;)

Raquel said...

i know exactly how you feel. last summer i spent three weeks in brazil (i don't speak portuguese) with family that i hadn't seen in nearly four years. i felt lonely and discombobulated, even if brazil was interesting and different from any place i had ever been to.

whenever anyone claims that you are just a close-minded American just remind yourself that you did have the courage to spend a long period of time living in a foreign country, you are going to be traveling across europe.

have fun in rome (i'm so jealous)!

Salsaya said...

You have every right to be feeling the way you do. I know you know that, but I have to say it anyway :)
I got ridiculously homesick when I went back to school after Christmas because of something that happened with my family. Leaving my family and close friends to go live with people I had only known for 10 weeks was incredibly hard. Now I'm dreading going back, but I'm doing it and I'm going to try and make the most of it and have the best year of college so far. You're part of my inspiration for this because no matter how bad things get in Europe for you, you keep persevering. It's incredibly awesome that you still want to travel to Antarctica and right when I'm done posting this I'm going to go vote for you.
<3

Goober said...

Ahh i had to look back at last posts comments to see and KarenKaren totally took the words right out of my mouth.

HAYLEY WRITES SO MUCH BETTER THAN YOU and deserves this so much more. i wish she found it first.

noms said...

You're sixth now, Kristina. SIXTH! You are so going to own this thing.

PS. word verification: swallop (where is the cod?)

ginger jones said...

I voted for you! Don't worry about the people who hate on you on youtube. They probably lay awake at night waiting for Edward Cullen to climb through their windows and watch them sleep.

Alex Day said...

Yo, Rubeena. And anyone else who has a problem.

If you don't like it, don't read it.

Hayley's not entering this contest. Kristina is. This isn't a playhouse where you can get your favourite characters to do whatever you want. There's a girl behind this blog trying to live her life, dealing with much bigger things than how you feel about her writing style, so be supportive or go the hell away.

It is now my personal mission to get you to Antarctica, love.

b said...

Hi Kristina.
I just wanted to tell you how much I really enjoy everything you do. I have been watching you on youtube and reading your blog for along time. I know you have over a million reader and I am not sure what the chances are that you will really read this. Its kinda funny. When I have a bad day I can come home and watch some of your videos. You make me laugh all the time. I enjoy being able to live small adventures through you. I understand being home sick... but just keep your head up. There are millions of pop-tarts here when you get back :)

Jena said...

I voted for you :)

Mustikoita said...

I love reading your blog, so don't listen to those jealous ones who don't. I hope your trip gets better, and I'm sure they have poptarts in Tesco. <3

Chloeism said...

I'm sorry to hear about your break up with Alex. I can only imagine how much it would suck to be in a foreign country and going through that. I hope you get as much out of your stay as you can though :)


Good luck with the Antarctica blog competition thing :)

Liam Dryden said...

Aww, I'm sorry that the idiots have finally found you here :(

It's not American Idol! Like you said, it's a contest based on votes, not the biggest sob-story; hopefully the guilt-trippers can realise that. <3

Ben Cracknell said...

Hey Kristina.
I just read all the comment on your Latest video, and GOD, PEOPLE CAN BE SO RUDE!
I had no idea people would make a freaking up-rising about "charity," and "people dying in the world" and "you being hot is the only reason I sent the package,"
I'm sorry if I've created even more crap for you!
It was ment to make you feel better, not make people be so RUDE!
Once again, I'm sorry. ):

Aless not Alice said...

Boo to bitchy comments!! Some people (especially people on the internet) can't help but be mean. Youtube haters are especially full of hate.

I voted for you to go to Antarctica. Although I can't imagine EVER wanted to go somewhere so cold!!! If there is ever a competition to go to a tropical island I hope you vote for meee :)

x

RhianonLives said...

Some people are just ridiculous. When people see someone like you_ someone who's had great opportuinities but who is also smart, nice, good looking_ they tend to want to downgrade them so they don't have to face the fact that, uhm, there's people out there who are just awesome and deserve to have awesome things happen to them.
I voted for you! And I'm telling my friends to vote for you too =) HAVE FUN AND TAKE PICTURES IN ROME!

kkxlovesxyou said...

I'm so sad that in the 3 months I haven't had internet, I missed so much. I hope you feel better and I hope you win this contest thing. I'm going to go watch all the videos I missed and all the blogs I havent been able to read. You are amazing girl, so smile and have a wonderful time.

The Whomping Willows said...

As soon as I found out about the Antarctica thing, I wanted to apply. I know that I could get a lot of votes. I know that my intense traveling experience over the past two years and my writing credentials qualify me for the job. I know that I "deserve" the chance to do it. And I've been secretly obsessing over Antarctica for like two years now. But honestly, I'm not going to apply because if there's any chance I would take a vote away from you, I don't want to do it. It's not about who "deserves" it the most, it's about my knowing that my friend Kristina would make the most of this opportunity. You're young, you're still figuring yourself out, and you're pursuing your talents in amazing ways. I hope you win. :)

Love,
Matt

Jacklyn said...

I'm sorry that you have to have a disclaimer for all you do on the interwebs.

have a great day today. make it awesome.

kaitlin said...

Just ignore those other comments and read these instead. :)
It's ironic that those people think you're being close minded when in actuality, it's their ignorance that brought them to say those things. I think it's really tough of you to stay in England (and even pretty Gryffindor, though that's not exactly a compliment in your Slytherin case ;) ), even if you want to come home.
I voted for you to win the trip, but I don't think I can picture you there. I'm not sure why (but there's certainly no poptarts). It would be really cool if you won though, cause it would make your blog even more awesome. And if you do, will you start and HPA chapter? Then they'll have on on every continent.

Marie said...

Gahhh people are such jerks! 1) you are entitled to miss things that remind you of home and 2) the contest has nothing to do with comparing your and Hayley's writing styles.

You know what? Forget those idiots and just focus on having an awesome time in Rome! They're not worth even thinking about. And as for Antarctica, I voted for you because I truly believe you deserve to go. We all support you, so ignore the haters- or maybe you could just laugh at their pathetic lives, with nothing better to do than hate.

katiezell said...

I just got on to the blog for the first time today and I practically read every blog about the trip for the past hour... I really should eat lunch soon. Anyways, I had no idea and I'm sorry. I have never had a boyfriend so I don't have much advice, but whenever I'm sad or depressed I find something to distract yourself and you have this amazing trip. I hope you feel better and I hope you're having a wonderful time. We all love you!!!

Rachael said...

I don't think you are closed minded at all and I think people who assume that are people who probably don't read your blog or watch all your videos because they don't realise how lovely you are and that you aren't one for lots of complaining. I didn't have any problem with the video that you put up about comfort food, although it did confuse me a bit because we do have pop tarts available here that aren't expensive cybercandy prices :) I have them in my local supermarket anyway :) I guess I can perhaps understand why some people might have taken slight offense at your video because they saw it as a list of why America is better then the UK or something, but whilst I can slightly understand I do not agree with their opinion. Don't worry too much about what other people say, because at the end of the day you are entitled to an opinion and if these people followed your blog then they would realise there are a lot of things you love about England too!!!

Best wishes,

Rachael :)

The Blog Author said...

Make your trip to Rome a memorable experience, and I know it's beyond difficult to do this, but attempt not to dwell on things but I know that's probably impossible. Just remember of people who love you and make sure to have a positive outlook on things. All of that may seem hard to do, I'm aware of that, but I hope you do make the best of your trip.

Katyisgoing said...

Screw Haters! You are great!
Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Anonymous said...

tbh, if they were true 'fans' or even vaguely interested, then they could easily find ur blog and find the truth. These ppl are just trolls and out to get a reaction, so keep ur head up :)

PS. I'm sure we sell poptarts here! It's sad that you haven't found them easily :( Look out for Golden crisp and Milka chocolate, not the same at all, but yummy. x

comelygrace said...

Yowza, people suck. But at least you have more than a few of us avid loyal, loving, caring, protective, supportive, and awesome blog followers/video watchers on your side. Just imagine: if there were ever an army of Anti-Kristinas vs. Pro-Kristinas...we'd totally outnumber them and probably kick some bitchy whiny butts! I might also add, I'm a ninja.

You got my vote! Cheers. :)

Draven Cullen said...

Kristina you are the coolest person I wish I knew! Hope you have fun in Rome!

Mego said...

Hey Kristina! I voted for you! I think it would be awesome for you to go to Antarctica. One of my friends has gone there, and he said it is absolutely amazing! I really enjoy reading your blog, and I really hope that the rest of your trip makes up for the beginning! <3

Baxter said...

You are in sixth place at the moment for Antarctica. I have spent a lot of time in London and my mother is from England, so I have the experience to say that English cuisine is not that great.

Ariel said...

Hi Kristina! I was away from the computer for the better part of five days, and am only just catching myself up. I missed reading your stuff. A lot.

ANYWAY.

I just voted for you to go to Antartica. I hope you win. It sounds like an amazing opportunity, and I' much rather hear about it from you, who I've been watching and reading about for so long. Plus, you'll be able to compare it to the other places you've been, and you've been a lot of place.

And haters are not worth your time. I know they can be a bit upsetting, and frustrating, and several other unpleasant emotions, but they really don't deserve your time. No one can say what you should do or how you should feel. If they're that bothered, they can go find someone whose blog they want to read. It's your life, and why wouldn't you want to make the most of it in a way that you see fit.

SaraShana said...

Kristina, you know what you need to do?
You need to put on a top hat and sing "Lady Marmalade" at the top of your lungs. The new version, not the original.
I PROMISE you'll feel better.
I'm gonna go vote for you XD
Feel better! Haters have nothing on you.

Becca said...

Nobody can accurately say that anybody's writing is better than anyone else's, because talent is not a quantifiable thing. You can't put "talent" in a measuring cup and determine exactly who has more or less. All people can accurately say is whose writing they prefer and all that is is a matter of opinion. Honestly everything you're writing about here just sounds like straight-up bullying to me... "You don't deserve this, you don't appreciate that, you're not as good as you think you are." It grosses me out. I don't know who exactly this quote is meant to be attributed to (I've heard Eleanor Roosevelt, so let's go with that), but "nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent." Good luck in the contest!

Taylor said...

I don't think you should listen to those people who are telling you to just go back to America. So many people get homesick and it doesn't mean you are being disrespectful to where you are. You don't have to explain yourself to anyone, but clearly these people don't know what you're going through. Don't worry about it, everybody that reads thinks you're really great:)

Jackieh :] said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Jackieh :] said...

Please, Kristina don't let haters bother you. Haters are idiots who sit at home and hate on people because in all honesty, they want to be them. The people who say you should go back to America and not go to Antartica want that because they know they will NEVER get to do anything as awesome as the things you are doing right now. As I've been reading through your blog, I feel like I've gotten to know you, and you seem like one of the sweetest people around. So what if your not J.K Rowling and the words don't flow eloquently from your mouth? They don't HAVE to. You are a real person, living your life in ways we all dream of doing. So say Arrivederci(did I spell that right?) to those haters, you're in a much better place than them.
We love you Kristina<3

Madeline said...

Kristina,

My grandparents visited Antarctica in the '80s just because it was the one continent they'd never visited and they thought it would be a cool experience. I wish everyone who just liked adventures and traveling had the opportunity to visit there. I voted for you because I'd like to get your advice someday in the future when I visit Antarctica too!! Good luck!! :)

ellearch said...

Ignore youtube comments, alot of people write rude comments for no reason what so ever.

the internet has become a virtual breeding ground for users to say whatever insults they like to others, just because they know they wouldn't get a slap back because they are protected by computer screen. I'm 100% if they saw you in real life, THEY WOULDN'T DARE says stuff like that in person!

Didn't know you missed having poptarts! they sell them in cyber candy in Covent Garden, not sure if you knew that?

I only ever went to Edinburgh once in my life and I fell in love with it too! I'm hoping to do post graduate degree there. I read in one of your old blogs, you felt abit cheated about going to Greenwich University compared to your friend who did her exchange in Edinburgh. Greenwich University is known to have a poor reputation and ranking in the UK. Plus the area is soo far out for central London which is a bummer.

Oh enjoy rome!! I went there last summer and loved it. I definitely recommend doing the pub crawl in the city centre, definitely fun. :)

Unknown said...

heyy, getting your heart broken is always hard. And there isnt anything you can do about that. But oneday, prob in the distant future, you can look back on things and say i wouldnt change anything. Dont worrie about people moaning, its what us english people do. And enjoy it here in england. =]

Tim said...

I don't get it. You had a choice or Sidcup or Rome, and you chose Rome? Good luck with the contest, I really hope you win it.
Hope Rome isn't too dull after Sidcup.

dizzylizziee said...

dont worry most of us understand , one thing u will have learned about English people by the end of your trip is we are the best at complaining out of anyone else, i mean seriously !!! so dont worry about it, and good luck with the Antarctica competition :)

Unknown said...

I don't know if you still need cheering up, but apparently Mika is going to have a free all ages concert this week in London, so if you are still in London, you might be interested, his music can be way fun ^__^ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1NhLrTu0BY

Hilary said...

Did people seriously say that? Because that's kind of ridiculous. It's not even fair at that point. People suck. Do what you want, say what you say, screw the YouTube commenters.
And I think you should go out for the contest to hang with the penguins and such. It would be awesome.

Have a fantastic time in Rome!!

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Martin said...

You know for a fact that people just get a kick of putting others down on the internet. You deserve to win that competition as much as anyone else. Go for it.
<3

Anonymous said...

*hug* I can only imagine how tough this is, and I think you're doing very well considering the circumstances!!

A said...

Personally, I think you should win the trip to Antarctica. That would mean that I don't have to go and fight the cold and snow; and at the same time I would be able to enjoy the trip through you!! Love your blogs and vlogs!

Bel G. said...

People can get VERY invasive on the internet once you expose yourself in your channel like you do, but that's entirely their problem! They are the ones who have absolutely nothing to do and swirl their lives around you, as if criticising you were the most important thing in the world.

Don't listen to what they say, I totally understand how you feel! Being abroad when you're heartbroken makes you miss the tiniest, stupidest things... I'm brazilian and lived in Israel for a year - believe me, it's no piece of pie.

I'm also voting for you on the Artarctica contest too - it's a contest, for crying out loud... Go Kristina!

Feel better
: )

Alex Dahlberry said...

Good luck on the Antarctica competition! I just voted for you.

And I think it's silly for whoever thinks you are being unreasonable about your experiences in England. Personally, I think you are being extremely positive for someone in your situation.
And I guess for your youtube subscribers, its not really their fault that they dont get it. neither you nor Alex have spoken about it on youtube.
Maybe you should just mention it in a video, just at the end or something so that people stop being obnoxious in their ignorance? I dont know, its your choice.

-alex dahlberg

Anonymous said...

Aw Kristina i'm so sorry about what happend. It's not easy getting your heart broken let alone in a foreign country :(. i will eat a pop tart for you tomorrow morning at breakfast :), i hope things get better!

abbs866 said...

PEOPLE ARE DUMB.
Except... most of us. Because we love you.

Lowie said...

OH my goodness I know how you feel. I just moved to London from San Diego, and it yes, can be extremely hard to adjust and cope...esp. when everything around you is polar from what you're used to and especially when you have additional problems to deal with. Please do your best to ignore those hateful people. Only you are entitled to your emotions. So quite frankly, how you feel is none of their business. There are just some people that like to try and pull down whoever they can with them. If their words aren't trying to help, then they really shouldn't even be acknowledged cause it's worth anything to you ya know? Well anyways, I'll be ending this novel now. Hang in there hun, you'll come out of this a-ok I promise! Peace :-)

Anonymous said...

I <3 you. honest to god i would hate british food no matter what. i've tried it and it's just pretty bland. no offense to anyone... i'm a really picky eater. BUT to be fair to you, i would effing miss pop tarts too and stuff. i'm sorry people are jumping to conclusions. don't worry we know the full story and we totally understand!

x0brittx0 said...

i haven't wanted to comment about anything because i'm going through a rough break up too and the last thing you probably want or need to hear is the same depressing stuff from across the world but here's the thing : when you leave london, you leave alex and MOST of his reminders there. i live in the same town and go to the same church as my ex. i don't get to leave here. i kinda wish all of this stuff was just stuff i had to deal with on vacation. i KNOW it must be so hard to be in a completely new environment away from all of your normal everyday life things and be reminded of him everywhere you go but when you get home, all of those reminders will be gone. and you'll be able to be kristina and heal in a healthy way. :) it'll get much easier when you get home. in the mean time, enjoy what you can and forget about what you can't enjoy.

i hope it all gets better for you <3

Anonymous said...

Go you. Don't let anyone get you down.

emma andromacy said...

Whoa. WHOA. Boys suck. Stick to girls. Seriously. I can't believe him, you're beautiful and smart and funny. If you were gay and I didn't have a girlfriend... ;)

Elayne said...

You are an amazing writer and a very amazing person, and anyone who can't see either of those things should just GTFO.

-Elayne

Unknown said...

<3

Anonymous said...

Oh, hey Kristina. :)

I was randomly re-reading your blog today, and it just makes me happy that you're happy again now, with Luke.

It gives me hope, you know? Your life and how you persevered -- even when you WERE weak, like you mentioned -- gives me hope.

<3