Packing SUCKS. It sucks even more when you know there's a weight allowance and if the bags are overweight, you either say good-bye to precious goods or pay and arm a leg and part of your spine to take you goods with you.
It's weird. I'm moving out of my dorm today. It's official, the domino's are falling and soon I'll be home. It really just feels weird.
I leave my Amiens home in 5 hours...for good. Paris for one more wonderful week and then home.
Home to all the things I've missed and all the things I haven't.
Home to deal with the culture shock, happiness, depression, longing to leave and travel some more yet wanting to stay and be responsible once more.
Packing really really SUCKS.
-R
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
I Ate LOTS of Cake over the past two days!
Not really but, I had my cake and ate it too.
First.
Update.
So I told the Morrocan about my blog regarding "us." I told him I didn't use his name but called him "The Morrocan." He got upset and said "No! I'm not Morrocan, not when I'm in France!" I said, "oh, so you're French when you're in France and Morrocan in Morroco?" "Yes!" he said.hmmm.
Well, his mother is French, his father Morrocan so...Tu chez. whatever. he was amused that I'd even write about him...I think it stroked his ego. Whatever.
MONT ST. MICHEL
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mont_Saint-Michel
I went yesterday! I got to drive the rental car all the way there! It was so fun! What a beautiful area. It was about 4 hours each way and then I think we spend about 4 hours checkin' out the sites and eating some yummy fresh seafood.
LILLE
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lille
Today we went to Lille! Yes, LILLE! The town I am thinking about studying in next. I'm so happy I made it there for a visit before I left. It's soo beautiful! I got to visit the campus and check out the office for foreign students, totally successful trip!
This city is MUCH MUCH bigger than Amiens, yet still smaller than Paris. It has a subway system, many many more people, much more to do...definately more my pace. I'm really a city girl a heart, small towns just don't do it for me.
So my hopeful plan is to finish my senior year at my home University, graduate, and then spend a year of my graduate years in Lille.
Funny Story
Just as I'm getting ready to journey off, I'm finally getting really good and comfortable speaking French. I didn't even notice it. My friend, Denae did. I had to talk to this woman in the Office for exchange students and Denae told me that I gave a very impressive introduction and Ididn't even realize it until the conversation was over!!! I have to tell you, that made me feel so good! Like for real? Am I actually picking up this language? YAyeeee!!!
Well, got to my room. Gonna relax. Got lots to do tomorrow, cleaning, more packing, meeting with the International Affairs Dept. you know, that kinda stuff. So, you're favorite exchange student is off!
I have lots of kool photos from the past few days, promise to post asap!
BIZ,
R
First.
Update.
So I told the Morrocan about my blog regarding "us." I told him I didn't use his name but called him "The Morrocan." He got upset and said "No! I'm not Morrocan, not when I'm in France!" I said, "oh, so you're French when you're in France and Morrocan in Morroco?" "Yes!" he said.hmmm.
Well, his mother is French, his father Morrocan so...Tu chez. whatever. he was amused that I'd even write about him...I think it stroked his ego. Whatever.
MONT ST. MICHEL
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mont_Saint-Michel
I went yesterday! I got to drive the rental car all the way there! It was so fun! What a beautiful area. It was about 4 hours each way and then I think we spend about 4 hours checkin' out the sites and eating some yummy fresh seafood.
LILLE
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lille
Today we went to Lille! Yes, LILLE! The town I am thinking about studying in next. I'm so happy I made it there for a visit before I left. It's soo beautiful! I got to visit the campus and check out the office for foreign students, totally successful trip!
This city is MUCH MUCH bigger than Amiens, yet still smaller than Paris. It has a subway system, many many more people, much more to do...definately more my pace. I'm really a city girl a heart, small towns just don't do it for me.
So my hopeful plan is to finish my senior year at my home University, graduate, and then spend a year of my graduate years in Lille.
Funny Story
Just as I'm getting ready to journey off, I'm finally getting really good and comfortable speaking French. I didn't even notice it. My friend, Denae did. I had to talk to this woman in the Office for exchange students and Denae told me that I gave a very impressive introduction and Ididn't even realize it until the conversation was over!!! I have to tell you, that made me feel so good! Like for real? Am I actually picking up this language? YAyeeee!!!
Well, got to my room. Gonna relax. Got lots to do tomorrow, cleaning, more packing, meeting with the International Affairs Dept. you know, that kinda stuff. So, you're favorite exchange student is off!
I have lots of kool photos from the past few days, promise to post asap!
BIZ,
R
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Can't Believe I'll be HOME soon!
THE DREAM:
I had this dream last night that I came back to the States and was super depressed about it. I thought I would be happy but once I arrived, all I wanted to do was get on a plane and return to France. I went out with two of my best g-friends (Amy and Joscelyn) and just had a miserable time. In the dream I was so confused as to why I was miserable when I wanted so terribly to come home. All I wanted was someone to speak French with, little bakeries (patisseries), small cars, French signs, baguettes, small dogs, being hit on 20 times a day, you know...French things.
My dreams always amaze me because most of the time they are such a true reflection of the emotions that I may currently be feeling. I do have terribly mixed feelings about leaving one of my favorite places on Earth and I'm so frightened of the culture shock and depression that are sure to hit me upon re-entry into my home country.
A POSSIBLE PLAN:
As I'm approaching my final days (5 to be exact) in Amiens, I have a friend who's mother is here. They are renting a car today to do some travelling between now (May 26th) and May 30th. That's only 3 or 4 days. They'd like to hit Mont St. Michel, which is supposed to be this amazingly beautiful town, Paris, and...my beloved - Marseille. I would like nothing more than to go with them but the timing just stinks. Marseille is the reason that I fell in LOVE with France and it's right along the Mediteranean Sea, of COURSE, I want to go but it just seems like it would be too rushed and hectic and expensive. I have lots of packing to do, things to return and cancel, an event here on the 28th that I could go to, and more tutoring (more money and time with my favorite French children).
-So....What should I do? Save these travels for another time? We all know I will be here again...Cramm in as much as possible and risk being stressed out?
and finally...
THE MORROCAN
I'm sure you've been wondering....So here is the story.
I met him in a supermarket. He was checkin' me out in the check out line. My friend noticed it before I did and made sure to tell me so I looked over and saw him. We made eye contact and couldn't take our eyes off of each other. He mouthed the words "I'll wait outside for you" and I said "OK." After I purchased my things, there he was..He cleverly introduced himself and we exchanged numbers. I left with my friends and not even hours later he sent me text telling me I have the most beautiful smile and he'd like to see me later if I will make time for him. He called several times but I didn't answer...you know, playing hard to get...
But I didn't play too hard. I saw him that same nite, met his friends and then left for Paris the next day. Over weeks, I got to know an amazing, brilliant, intelligent, sensitive, attractive, funny, stylish young man. Fluent in 4 languages, already beginning a very lucrative career as an engineer at the age of 23, and very, very mature.
AND THEN......after 2 months he tells me about the arranged marriage. My heart sank. I was in disbelief. WHAT??? HOW??? In this day and age? He told me that he told the girl about me and that his father knew as well but because of the family business and his father's plans for it, he HAS to marry this girl. He doesn't want to. He's not in love with her. It's business. Like in the old days. He apologized to me for being irresponsible with me and my feelings. I was beside myself. I've developed feelings for this man that I will never be with. Uggghhhhh....
So.
The last 2 months have been quite interesting. We're trying to be friends and it's just too difficult for me. He is able to turn his emotions on and off like a switch...It's the business side of him. I, on the other hand, live and breathe my emotions, probably to a fault.
He has been there for me more than anyone else here. He's helped me with my French, with papers and homework, he's listened to me when I'm sad, sends me funny texts when I'm far away and made me feel like maybe I could really trust a man. He made me feel safe.
I don't know what will happen when I leave. It doesn't seem appropriate for me to stay in contact with a man who will be engaged this summer and married soon after. And I have to dispose of these feelings...
He says he will always be there for me, whatever I need. He has an apartment in Lille and will be going to school there next semester to become a doctor. He said he will help me when I come there to go to school.
I'm not sure I will. And, I think it will be only more difficult for me to see him. I must move on.
So. There you have it. Questions? Comments? Call....just kidding. I'd love to hear what you think. Thanks for reading.
Bisous,
Rene
I had this dream last night that I came back to the States and was super depressed about it. I thought I would be happy but once I arrived, all I wanted to do was get on a plane and return to France. I went out with two of my best g-friends (Amy and Joscelyn) and just had a miserable time. In the dream I was so confused as to why I was miserable when I wanted so terribly to come home. All I wanted was someone to speak French with, little bakeries (patisseries), small cars, French signs, baguettes, small dogs, being hit on 20 times a day, you know...French things.
My dreams always amaze me because most of the time they are such a true reflection of the emotions that I may currently be feeling. I do have terribly mixed feelings about leaving one of my favorite places on Earth and I'm so frightened of the culture shock and depression that are sure to hit me upon re-entry into my home country.
A POSSIBLE PLAN:
As I'm approaching my final days (5 to be exact) in Amiens, I have a friend who's mother is here. They are renting a car today to do some travelling between now (May 26th) and May 30th. That's only 3 or 4 days. They'd like to hit Mont St. Michel, which is supposed to be this amazingly beautiful town, Paris, and...my beloved - Marseille. I would like nothing more than to go with them but the timing just stinks. Marseille is the reason that I fell in LOVE with France and it's right along the Mediteranean Sea, of COURSE, I want to go but it just seems like it would be too rushed and hectic and expensive. I have lots of packing to do, things to return and cancel, an event here on the 28th that I could go to, and more tutoring (more money and time with my favorite French children).
-So....What should I do? Save these travels for another time? We all know I will be here again...Cramm in as much as possible and risk being stressed out?
and finally...
THE MORROCAN
I'm sure you've been wondering....So here is the story.
I met him in a supermarket. He was checkin' me out in the check out line. My friend noticed it before I did and made sure to tell me so I looked over and saw him. We made eye contact and couldn't take our eyes off of each other. He mouthed the words "I'll wait outside for you" and I said "OK." After I purchased my things, there he was..He cleverly introduced himself and we exchanged numbers. I left with my friends and not even hours later he sent me text telling me I have the most beautiful smile and he'd like to see me later if I will make time for him. He called several times but I didn't answer...you know, playing hard to get...
But I didn't play too hard. I saw him that same nite, met his friends and then left for Paris the next day. Over weeks, I got to know an amazing, brilliant, intelligent, sensitive, attractive, funny, stylish young man. Fluent in 4 languages, already beginning a very lucrative career as an engineer at the age of 23, and very, very mature.
AND THEN......after 2 months he tells me about the arranged marriage. My heart sank. I was in disbelief. WHAT??? HOW??? In this day and age? He told me that he told the girl about me and that his father knew as well but because of the family business and his father's plans for it, he HAS to marry this girl. He doesn't want to. He's not in love with her. It's business. Like in the old days. He apologized to me for being irresponsible with me and my feelings. I was beside myself. I've developed feelings for this man that I will never be with. Uggghhhhh....
So.
The last 2 months have been quite interesting. We're trying to be friends and it's just too difficult for me. He is able to turn his emotions on and off like a switch...It's the business side of him. I, on the other hand, live and breathe my emotions, probably to a fault.
He has been there for me more than anyone else here. He's helped me with my French, with papers and homework, he's listened to me when I'm sad, sends me funny texts when I'm far away and made me feel like maybe I could really trust a man. He made me feel safe.
I don't know what will happen when I leave. It doesn't seem appropriate for me to stay in contact with a man who will be engaged this summer and married soon after. And I have to dispose of these feelings...
He says he will always be there for me, whatever I need. He has an apartment in Lille and will be going to school there next semester to become a doctor. He said he will help me when I come there to go to school.
I'm not sure I will. And, I think it will be only more difficult for me to see him. I must move on.
So. There you have it. Questions? Comments? Call....just kidding. I'd love to hear what you think. Thanks for reading.
Bisous,
Rene
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Today!
First off, I just wanna thank Nicnak and Rasmo for being dedicated readers and comment leavers!
today was wonderful and it's not over. I woke up this morning and rode my bike to go tutor my favorite little frenchies. Have I told you how wonderful these children are? If only I could have come here and been their au pair they would have learned more English and I, French. I spent the first 3 hours giving them lessons, then we went and played ball in the yard. After, they're parents called and invited me to stay for pizza they were bringing home, so I did.
had some pizza and beers with the family, laid around in the yard with the youngest, who is so sweet, she always wants to play games and show me her favorite teddy bear, who didn't have a name until today!
We discussed them coming for a visit which I would totally love and I'm sending the middle child a copy of Charlotte's Web. These children are the sweetest and I will totally miss this family when I'm gone. :(
I'm glad to say they have been a super positive part of my experience here and promise to remain in contact with them.
Now, I'm chillin'. I've had this neck/headache going on 2 days so I'm gonna watch True Blood and vegge out for awhile before I start and finish my final paper.
It's good. It's all good.
Biz,
Rene
today was wonderful and it's not over. I woke up this morning and rode my bike to go tutor my favorite little frenchies. Have I told you how wonderful these children are? If only I could have come here and been their au pair they would have learned more English and I, French. I spent the first 3 hours giving them lessons, then we went and played ball in the yard. After, they're parents called and invited me to stay for pizza they were bringing home, so I did.
had some pizza and beers with the family, laid around in the yard with the youngest, who is so sweet, she always wants to play games and show me her favorite teddy bear, who didn't have a name until today!
We discussed them coming for a visit which I would totally love and I'm sending the middle child a copy of Charlotte's Web. These children are the sweetest and I will totally miss this family when I'm gone. :(
I'm glad to say they have been a super positive part of my experience here and promise to remain in contact with them.
Now, I'm chillin'. I've had this neck/headache going on 2 days so I'm gonna watch True Blood and vegge out for awhile before I start and finish my final paper.
It's good. It's all good.
Biz,
Rene
Thursday, May 21, 2009
2.5 weeks and counting
This countdown feels the same as when I was preparing to leave to come to France.
Not too much to write about. Just getting ready to head to Paris for my last 8 days in France. I leave the small town of Amiens for Paris on May 31st. I'm really excited to go to Le Louvre, back to Le Jardin de Tuilleries (sp), and maybe take a boat ride on La Seine.
I'll, of course, keep you updated.
getting ready for bed.
Be good to yourselves.
Biz,
Rene
Not too much to write about. Just getting ready to head to Paris for my last 8 days in France. I leave the small town of Amiens for Paris on May 31st. I'm really excited to go to Le Louvre, back to Le Jardin de Tuilleries (sp), and maybe take a boat ride on La Seine.
I'll, of course, keep you updated.
getting ready for bed.
Be good to yourselves.
Biz,
Rene
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Choko (Quick story)
So, I get a text yesterday from my Papa saying he heard Choko going insane so he went out to see what the barking was all about. She was having a face-off with a fox! Now remember, Choko is maybe 11 pounds, half Chihuahua half rat terrier...all love, so this fox is more than likely bigger and way more ferocious (sp?) Papa had to get the gun, was able to shoot the fox but then it ran off and he couldn't find it :(
Choko's ok, thank God. I thought to myself...3 more weeks and I'll see her, nothing can happen to her, PLEASE!!
Poor boo boo, thinks she's so tough but I don't know how she'd square off with a fox. She is a city dog, you know but she does have some amazing killer instincts.
I love my pup! Can't wait to see her running and digging and barking and growling!!
ok.
Biz,
R
Choko's ok, thank God. I thought to myself...3 more weeks and I'll see her, nothing can happen to her, PLEASE!!
Poor boo boo, thinks she's so tough but I don't know how she'd square off with a fox. She is a city dog, you know but she does have some amazing killer instincts.
I love my pup! Can't wait to see her running and digging and barking and growling!!
ok.
Biz,
R
17 Mai 2009 - SUNDAY in Amiens
Ok, after watching those videos, I really need to see my stylist when I get back to the States for a new hairdo. I haven't had my haircut since November and have wanted one since Feb. but I only allow one person to cut these lovely curls and that is Kat down at Urbane (shameless plug..go see her, she's great!)
It's Sunday. Woke up at 10:48am feeling like a million bucks. Three days in bed really paid off! No more sickies! But I think I've caught up on my soap opera, watched too many Quentin Tarantino movies, the 2nd season of Janice Dickson Modeling agency, and... have managed to give myself a serious stiff neck! But all in the name of feeling better!
Last night I had a twinge of weird feelings as I thought how quickly my last few weeks here will be passing by. Wow, this has been such a rollercoaster of events. So many amazing experiences and highs that no drug could ever provide all the way to suffering some heart-break, disappointment with University policies (or lack thereof), going totally broke for 2 weeks, feeling too old, too Black, too fat, not developed enough w/ my French language, unintelligent (due to my American upbringing), intelligent, smart, funny, lovely...All of the above on any given day...
But the thing that keeps going through my head is that I fulfilled a dream. One of my dreams came true. I've always wanted to live in France and I did it. Maybe not the way I thought I would, but I did it. And, I'll probably do it again. Another thought was this...When I really want something, I go after it and I get it! And, when I say I'm gonna do something, I do it.
All these things make me feel so proud and more importantly blessed by God. Sometimes I think God isn't listening or maybe He didn't hear this specific prayer...but I have to remember it's all in His time, not mine. Which, for someone who can be rather impatient, is difficult to understand.
Sorry, this is kinda long. Guess I just have lots to say today.
TODAY: My Belgium friend, Steven and I are going to cook a grand feast for some close friends for Steven's going away dinner. He leaves for home on Wednesday. He's cooking his famous lasagna and I'm making my famous eggplant parm! Yum! Wine, bread, olive oil, the works!
I'll miss him but he's gonna make a guest appearance in Omaha in August, YIPEEE!! So you'll have to meet him when he comes by!
I'm gonna go listen to a sermon, do some yoga, a short workout, clean my room and then prepare for the dinner!
Thanks for reading, would love to hear your thoughts. It means a lot to me that you've been loyal readers!
Much love to you!
Bisous,
Rene
It's Sunday. Woke up at 10:48am feeling like a million bucks. Three days in bed really paid off! No more sickies! But I think I've caught up on my soap opera, watched too many Quentin Tarantino movies, the 2nd season of Janice Dickson Modeling agency, and... have managed to give myself a serious stiff neck! But all in the name of feeling better!
Last night I had a twinge of weird feelings as I thought how quickly my last few weeks here will be passing by. Wow, this has been such a rollercoaster of events. So many amazing experiences and highs that no drug could ever provide all the way to suffering some heart-break, disappointment with University policies (or lack thereof), going totally broke for 2 weeks, feeling too old, too Black, too fat, not developed enough w/ my French language, unintelligent (due to my American upbringing), intelligent, smart, funny, lovely...All of the above on any given day...
But the thing that keeps going through my head is that I fulfilled a dream. One of my dreams came true. I've always wanted to live in France and I did it. Maybe not the way I thought I would, but I did it. And, I'll probably do it again. Another thought was this...When I really want something, I go after it and I get it! And, when I say I'm gonna do something, I do it.
All these things make me feel so proud and more importantly blessed by God. Sometimes I think God isn't listening or maybe He didn't hear this specific prayer...but I have to remember it's all in His time, not mine. Which, for someone who can be rather impatient, is difficult to understand.
Sorry, this is kinda long. Guess I just have lots to say today.
TODAY: My Belgium friend, Steven and I are going to cook a grand feast for some close friends for Steven's going away dinner. He leaves for home on Wednesday. He's cooking his famous lasagna and I'm making my famous eggplant parm! Yum! Wine, bread, olive oil, the works!
I'll miss him but he's gonna make a guest appearance in Omaha in August, YIPEEE!! So you'll have to meet him when he comes by!
I'm gonna go listen to a sermon, do some yoga, a short workout, clean my room and then prepare for the dinner!
Thanks for reading, would love to hear your thoughts. It means a lot to me that you've been loyal readers!
Much love to you!
Bisous,
Rene
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Uggghh
So, I'm here un my room.
Ansy.
Sick.
I had a really long day yesterday and I could feel it coming on but I ignored it, thinking it would go away.
I tutored for 2 hours in the morning, then went and had my translation final (1.5 hours), came back to my dorm for a nap, then 2 more hours of tutoring. By the time I got home I was wiped.
Made some dinner and started watching this show called "In Treatment"
Lots of my friends went out but my bad feeling was getting worse.
I woke up this morning with a bad sore throat and some weird upper respiratory thing...Just really tired. I seriously have been sleeping for most of today.
I'm soooo ansy to get out but this slight fever I have is preventing me from even moving to the kitchen to make some soup.
I had to miss a class today, the last class for foreign students. Oh, well. I just hope I didn't get my tutored kids sick.
So, that's my day today.
It's still gloomy here in Amiens. rainy, overcast, a bit muggy but not hot. Probably about 10-12 C. I don't really know since I haven't left my room.
Uggh.
Hopefully better tomorrow.
R
Ansy.
Sick.
I had a really long day yesterday and I could feel it coming on but I ignored it, thinking it would go away.
I tutored for 2 hours in the morning, then went and had my translation final (1.5 hours), came back to my dorm for a nap, then 2 more hours of tutoring. By the time I got home I was wiped.
Made some dinner and started watching this show called "In Treatment"
Lots of my friends went out but my bad feeling was getting worse.
I woke up this morning with a bad sore throat and some weird upper respiratory thing...Just really tired. I seriously have been sleeping for most of today.
I'm soooo ansy to get out but this slight fever I have is preventing me from even moving to the kitchen to make some soup.
I had to miss a class today, the last class for foreign students. Oh, well. I just hope I didn't get my tutored kids sick.
So, that's my day today.
It's still gloomy here in Amiens. rainy, overcast, a bit muggy but not hot. Probably about 10-12 C. I don't really know since I haven't left my room.
Uggh.
Hopefully better tomorrow.
R
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
You think you know...But do you ever REALLY know?
I came to France feeling I had life figured out. I knew what I wanted, where I was headed and how I was gonna get there. Now, it's a complete turn around. I feel like such a child, a baby in this life...I'm an old soul having a totally new experience.
If there's one thing I've learned it's that one may never totally have life figured out, maybe for a few moments but roads get blocked, new ones are built, some bridges are burned and some rebuilt...Life is a new experience everyday, this is nothing you don't know. But I have to remind myself of this fairly regularly.
I think sometimes the BEST decision is to be still and wait for God. I know I gave a friend that same advice once upon a time and now I give the same advice to myself. Be Still and wait.
It's rainy in Amiens today. All of the American students had to meet today with our host ISEP coordinator to discuss getting our notes despite the situation with the strikes and the University block. I think it should be all good.
Our biggest frustration is that we paid BEAUCOUP bucks to be here to be TAUGHT not to have an independent study experience. Many of us would very much like to be compensated for a portion of what we paid because technically the contract wasn't completely fulfilled.
I have learned so much here, about the culture, the language and most importantly, about myself.
I understand why we pay so much to get a good education in the States and that is because we actually get one. We are given every opportunity to succeed. Here it is much more difficult. French students are pretty much on their own for much of the time. They don't get the array of advisors that we (Americans) do. You can expect that an American university will have state-of-the-art learning materials, computer labs, learning labs, the works...Here, this is not the case.
Anyway. I'm thankful. I'm thankful for all that I have and thankful for this experience.
I'm going to rest for a bit and then study for a translation final that I have tomorrow.
Got some video coming your way so stay tuned...
Be Well,
R
If there's one thing I've learned it's that one may never totally have life figured out, maybe for a few moments but roads get blocked, new ones are built, some bridges are burned and some rebuilt...Life is a new experience everyday, this is nothing you don't know. But I have to remind myself of this fairly regularly.
I think sometimes the BEST decision is to be still and wait for God. I know I gave a friend that same advice once upon a time and now I give the same advice to myself. Be Still and wait.
It's rainy in Amiens today. All of the American students had to meet today with our host ISEP coordinator to discuss getting our notes despite the situation with the strikes and the University block. I think it should be all good.
Our biggest frustration is that we paid BEAUCOUP bucks to be here to be TAUGHT not to have an independent study experience. Many of us would very much like to be compensated for a portion of what we paid because technically the contract wasn't completely fulfilled.
I have learned so much here, about the culture, the language and most importantly, about myself.
I understand why we pay so much to get a good education in the States and that is because we actually get one. We are given every opportunity to succeed. Here it is much more difficult. French students are pretty much on their own for much of the time. They don't get the array of advisors that we (Americans) do. You can expect that an American university will have state-of-the-art learning materials, computer labs, learning labs, the works...Here, this is not the case.
Anyway. I'm thankful. I'm thankful for all that I have and thankful for this experience.
I'm going to rest for a bit and then study for a translation final that I have tomorrow.
Got some video coming your way so stay tuned...
Be Well,
R
Thursday, May 7, 2009
7th May 2009 (Thursday)
Alas, Finally finished one of my papers, just before the deadline!
My booty hurts from sitting so much today but I got a lot of work done and had a "class."
Tomorrow is a bank holiday here so everything will be closed. Thinking I've got some seriously overdue laundry and 2 more papers to write (in French!)
Got a BBQ birthday party to go to on Sunday, I'm pretty excited! This girl LOVES BBQ!
Can't believe that TODAY, I have exactly one month left in France...3 weeks in Amiens and one final week in Paris! It's crazy and I know it will go by so fast.
Well, really not too much today.
Oh
Classroom etiquette here, Americans get such a bad rap but we are seriously the most respectful, on-time students out of all the exchange and frenchies (in my opinion).
Most of the classes I've been in, all the other students constantly hold very audible conversations with each other while the professor talks and while other fellow students are trying to give reports (in French-which can be very difficult even without the talking). also, I would say that 95% of the time almost all the American students are on-time if not a bit early to class while the other students will stroll in 10 to 15 minutes late.
The Prof never says anything to the talkers but it drives me nuts. If I were in a U.S. classroom, I would be shsh-ing somebody, seriously! I paid to learn darn it! Not to hear you babble in the back of the class!
so, that's all for today.
Bisous,
R
My booty hurts from sitting so much today but I got a lot of work done and had a "class."
Tomorrow is a bank holiday here so everything will be closed. Thinking I've got some seriously overdue laundry and 2 more papers to write (in French!)
Got a BBQ birthday party to go to on Sunday, I'm pretty excited! This girl LOVES BBQ!
Can't believe that TODAY, I have exactly one month left in France...3 weeks in Amiens and one final week in Paris! It's crazy and I know it will go by so fast.
Well, really not too much today.
Oh
Classroom etiquette here, Americans get such a bad rap but we are seriously the most respectful, on-time students out of all the exchange and frenchies (in my opinion).
Most of the classes I've been in, all the other students constantly hold very audible conversations with each other while the professor talks and while other fellow students are trying to give reports (in French-which can be very difficult even without the talking). also, I would say that 95% of the time almost all the American students are on-time if not a bit early to class while the other students will stroll in 10 to 15 minutes late.
The Prof never says anything to the talkers but it drives me nuts. If I were in a U.S. classroom, I would be shsh-ing somebody, seriously! I paid to learn darn it! Not to hear you babble in the back of the class!
so, that's all for today.
Bisous,
R
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Moody..and the Mood is good! :)
Oh la la!
I'm drinking wine and working on a paper. well, not really since I'm blogging.
I'm in a fabulous mood right now for no particular reason. well, I did just get off the phone with Morrocan. Can't really shake him, don't know why.
This paper I'm writing is due on Friday and I have the intro done. Good thing the minimum is 3 pages but I'm never one to just do the minimum...not usually.
Ansy, wanna go out. Do the paper or go out? Feel like getting dressed up. I'm not Hispanic but maybe someone is channeling some of that Cinco de Mayo energy.
BTW, I gave up mayo. replaced it with mustard. much more healthy.
tried to get more money from my bank, then from the financial aid dept. at my University. No Dice... It's okay. The tutoring is helping but I'd like to be able to bring some goodies back for my friends.
Wow, I get so moody sometimes. I've really been in a raunchy mood for what feels like a couple months and at this very moment I feel so happy. I swear I'm not manic but I'm feeling a little manic at the moment.
I want to be in love and I want it to be reciprocated. I'm putting it out there. I'm cute, I'm smart, I have a sense of humor and a wild side...what's not to like? HAHA
I swear I've only had a glass of wine.
Oh, I love France. This experience has been so bittersweet with all the striking but being in one of my favorite places on Earth all at the same time.
Oh Mon Dieu!
C'est tout.
R
I'm drinking wine and working on a paper. well, not really since I'm blogging.
I'm in a fabulous mood right now for no particular reason. well, I did just get off the phone with Morrocan. Can't really shake him, don't know why.
This paper I'm writing is due on Friday and I have the intro done. Good thing the minimum is 3 pages but I'm never one to just do the minimum...not usually.
Ansy, wanna go out. Do the paper or go out? Feel like getting dressed up. I'm not Hispanic but maybe someone is channeling some of that Cinco de Mayo energy.
BTW, I gave up mayo. replaced it with mustard. much more healthy.
tried to get more money from my bank, then from the financial aid dept. at my University. No Dice... It's okay. The tutoring is helping but I'd like to be able to bring some goodies back for my friends.
Wow, I get so moody sometimes. I've really been in a raunchy mood for what feels like a couple months and at this very moment I feel so happy. I swear I'm not manic but I'm feeling a little manic at the moment.
I want to be in love and I want it to be reciprocated. I'm putting it out there. I'm cute, I'm smart, I have a sense of humor and a wild side...what's not to like? HAHA
I swear I've only had a glass of wine.
Oh, I love France. This experience has been so bittersweet with all the striking but being in one of my favorite places on Earth all at the same time.
Oh Mon Dieu!
C'est tout.
R
Monday, May 4, 2009
It's a NEW day and God is good.
My sleep schedule has been totally lame and weird. yesterday I woke up at 10:30am. did some reading around 6pm, fell asleep at 7pm and woke up at 9pm only to be wide awake until 4am. Went to sleep then and woke up at 6:47am, fell asleep, got a phone call at 7:30am letting me know that I have been elected as the new President of my Organization, went back to sleep and woke up at 10:30am..
I have a weird feeling about today now that i've had such weird sleep.
I spent time with Morrocan last night. I think that we will be good friends and that's all.
My to-do list is long today:
faxing my Fin. Aid info to my home University
lots of laundry
job apps
scholarship report
class for 4 hours!!
writing papers
Better get going...
Oh, I had another weird dream. I got pregnant by Morrocan but the baby actually belonged to an ex that I havent seen in one year...there was more to it but I'm gonna leave you with that.
Be Well,
R
I have a weird feeling about today now that i've had such weird sleep.
I spent time with Morrocan last night. I think that we will be good friends and that's all.
My to-do list is long today:
faxing my Fin. Aid info to my home University
lots of laundry
job apps
scholarship report
class for 4 hours!!
writing papers
Better get going...
Oh, I had another weird dream. I got pregnant by Morrocan but the baby actually belonged to an ex that I havent seen in one year...there was more to it but I'm gonna leave you with that.
Be Well,
R
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Sunday Amiens 3rd May
well, plans for today...
Gonna go climb the Cathedral since it's free today. got a paper or two to write.
Ya know, I don't mind blogging but it would be nice to get a few more comments or something just to know people are actually reading. I put some time and effort into doing this is all...
I thank rasmocentral for remaining a vocal participant and a few others as well...
It's just easier with encouragement, ya know.
Maybe it's not interesting enough for you?
Maybe you want juicier tidbits since, if you know me well, you know the juicys exist. I'm just trying to keep it koolio.
It's another gloomy, rainy day here. I wanna come home.
That's all.
R
Gonna go climb the Cathedral since it's free today. got a paper or two to write.
Ya know, I don't mind blogging but it would be nice to get a few more comments or something just to know people are actually reading. I put some time and effort into doing this is all...
I thank rasmocentral for remaining a vocal participant and a few others as well...
It's just easier with encouragement, ya know.
Maybe it's not interesting enough for you?
Maybe you want juicier tidbits since, if you know me well, you know the juicys exist. I'm just trying to keep it koolio.
It's another gloomy, rainy day here. I wanna come home.
That's all.
R
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Sat. 2 May 2009
Today's is my mom's birthday! I forgot I needed to send her card 2 weeks ago. I'm sure a phone call will suffice.
I'm ready to come home. I dream of my Choko every night. Every night I dream of different friends and the things I really like about them. I want to garden in my yard. Go to my church, sleep in my bed, cook in my kitchen, walk down my street, make dinner for my friends...oh, the things you miss when you're far far away.
Today is gloomy, overcast. Not much on my agenda. Have some job apps to fill out. Papers to write. Gonna go tutor for an hour around 6pm and maybe make dinner with some friends.
It's been 4 months and I have one month to go. It still seems a bit premature to begin planning events for my return, but I can't help but think about it.
I've been going back and forth about Lille. I really have two completely different roads I could take. I weigh my options everyday and pray for guidance.
Miss you and thinking of you.
R
I'm ready to come home. I dream of my Choko every night. Every night I dream of different friends and the things I really like about them. I want to garden in my yard. Go to my church, sleep in my bed, cook in my kitchen, walk down my street, make dinner for my friends...oh, the things you miss when you're far far away.
Today is gloomy, overcast. Not much on my agenda. Have some job apps to fill out. Papers to write. Gonna go tutor for an hour around 6pm and maybe make dinner with some friends.
It's been 4 months and I have one month to go. It still seems a bit premature to begin planning events for my return, but I can't help but think about it.
I've been going back and forth about Lille. I really have two completely different roads I could take. I weigh my options everyday and pray for guidance.
Miss you and thinking of you.
R
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