I think that this is a picture of me at the top of the Arch D'Triumph overlooking the Eiffel Tower..But all I can see in the post area are web numbers.
I am so very sorry about the irregular posting. I am trying to figure the least complicated way to upload pictures for you all to see. Right now that web link in the previous entry seems to be the best bet. But I am certain that there is a better way.
Things here are very good. I hosted a dinner party on Friday evening and almost 40 people showed up. It was an ingredient party where everyone brings something and we see what we end up with. Our dishes were awesome; Eggplant and pesto over angelhair, Pineapple(here it is called Anana)Chicken, and grilled mushrooms and corgettes with crab meat and rice mixed with a cucumber sauce as well as 2 quiches. Those were our main dishes. I guess maybe I forgot just how much I love to cook.
Classes have begun and I have decided to only take three classes here. They are Theories of EU Integration, Comparitive Legal Traditions and Contemporary Indian Society. My French class continues throughout the semester. I am also taking two graduate courses back at home so my work is definately cut out for me. Even though I only have class on Monday Tuesday and Thursday.
The University has paired me up with a French Buddy..although mine is actually from Russia. Her name is Elena and she is quite sweet. She is studying international buisness.
Do not fret though I am managing a few trips. Last weekend I spent a few days in Paris. I cannot tell you the last time I was so cold. In two weeks we are planning a large trip during our first vacation. I will be going to Geneva, Budapest, Prague and Berlin. That should be one wild adventure. In April I plan to go to Germany for a week to meet Sigi and Renata.
It is really so hard to believe that I have been here for a month. At times I miss certain things about home so much that I could cry. Slowly though I am finding things here to do that are equally as wonderful. Today I sat on my patio for a few hours and just chatted. I also have taken to cooking for several people in the building. Which is another thing that I love. It is a great way to get to know new people. I also love that here in France I have to slow down. It can be fustrating at times but in the end I rather like that I can sit in a Cafe and have an espresso and stay for 2 hours. And the dinners here are an event. At least 4 courses and all so wonderful. I have even tried escargo (snails). They were wonderful.While I have been fortunate to meet new people I desprately miss my old friends and my girls. I spoke to them the other day and it really was the highlight of my week. I have also missed hanging out with Garrett and my weekly dinners with Amy not to mention my four day political/religious talks with Joe and being the third wheel in the Collin/Nicole marriage. But there is a british guy named Dan who reminds me so much of Garrett and Stephanie and I have our gossipy lunches/dinners. I know that it is not the same I dont know its so hard to explain. I have this amazing opportunity and it is working out so well. The truth of the matter is that I could not have made it here if it were not for the help and support of all of you. OK enough sappyness.
Tonight we are going to Hotel De Ville (City center) and having dinner at a resteraunt that claims to be tex-mex :) I will reserve judgment until after dinner.
I do have one favor to ask those of you who read this. Some of you already know that I collect postcards from all over the world. I wanted to know if maybe in your free time you could send some from the different places that you are. It would be an interesting addition to my collection not only to have postmarks from all of your homes but also since they will be coming to France. Thank you so much. If you do not have my address it is 42 Rue Des Herideaux Lyon, France 69008.
I hope that you all have a wonderful evening :)
I am slowly but surely gettting my apartment in order. As many of you can tell the theme is Orange :) only the best color ever. But look at all the empty room for wonderful postcards :) I kind of like the way it is starting to look. And yes girls I actually make my bed every single day and you should too. :)
A few weeks ago it snowed here in France and I was able to take this neat picture from my balcony. I have a bit of a decent view which is quite nice. The snow however was just simply quite cold. Too cold.
