Hi all,
Today marks the one week deadline until I'm back in the U S of A–24 hrs X 7, as I've been counting down lately. There's so many mixed feelings at this point in the semester, between the home-anxiousness, as I'll call it, the reluctance to leave a place as warm as Aix, and the stress that inevitably creeps up before finals–abroad or not, they matter. This is the last stretch in a section of my life that is as memorable & valuable as other periods of my life have been.
I'm also going through-as are many study abroaders-an uncertainty, sentimental period in figuring out how to say goodbye to a loving host family that were more meaningful than I could have imagined. Tonight, I'm feeling a bit emotional, as they've gotten back from a weekend at the hospital, as they watched Elisabeth's dad fighting for his life–he's been ill for months but only within the last week–eerily, since I met him last weekend–did his breathing get really bad, so there's been a whole roller coaster of emotions over here. I just saw Elisabeth for the first thing tonight when she got back & I couldn't help but feel admiration through my sorrow as I listened to her recount her emotions from the weekend. Today's another day where being away at home, in a place that could have seemed so distant and lonely, I'm surrounded by love, and I appreciate stronger & stronger my family, friends, and loved ones back home.
I hope this post wasn't too much of a downer, but rather a reminder to always be strong and take the time to reflect and appreciate all that you're blessed to have in life.
much love from the land of quiche,
c
xoxoxox
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
sweet, sweet success
I have a story for you all that would make Lilli, our program director, grin as wide as the Grinch does when he finally breaks down at the end of the movie and gives in to Christmas (PS-it is only NECESSARY that I watch that upon my return stateside).
Today I spent the afternoon with my second mono-à-mono session with my lovely traduction professor, Francesca. It's a funy thing. I'm not sure if it's just her, France, or AUCP that mandates that litereally every minute of class time missed, for example if a professor is running 10-15 minutes late, be made up at a separate time, by every single student. So, since I am the only 'étudiant' who goes on to Société Française after Traduction in the morning, I have had the pleasure of having 2 private tutoring sessions, if you will, with my translation professor.
So, we were sitting out in the garden, and seeing how earlier this morning was our last class, there wasn't a whole lot on the agenda to neither go over or prepare for, so, we just resorted to reading over my final project which I turned in this morning, cool. We had to translate a work we chose, so naturally I chose Confessions of a Shopaholic, 10 pages mind you, so we just started reading.
This is where it becomes Lilli's dream. Francesca and I are reading through it, unfortunately finding silly little errors, despite the fact that I'd probably read over it 10 times, and we have this magical moment where she says "Wow, you've really done well, you really did a good job translating and have improved so much since the start!" HALLELUJAH! So, although I might still get an eyesore of a grade, seeing how the French consider the equivalent of our 'C' to be a good grade, we'll see, but the point is, progress!! It's good to know that someone of authority also sees the effort and improvements I've made–not to come across as arrogant, but if I didn't have progress, there'd be a problem.
So now I'm off to finish practicing for tomorrow's presentation in another class with a motivating & warm professor. It's true what they say about small classes–those two are my smallest classes and the two in which I feel I've gained the most from–be it different learning skills or literary anaysis & presentation, it counts for something.
bisous,
c
Today I spent the afternoon with my second mono-à-mono session with my lovely traduction professor, Francesca. It's a funy thing. I'm not sure if it's just her, France, or AUCP that mandates that litereally every minute of class time missed, for example if a professor is running 10-15 minutes late, be made up at a separate time, by every single student. So, since I am the only 'étudiant' who goes on to Société Française after Traduction in the morning, I have had the pleasure of having 2 private tutoring sessions, if you will, with my translation professor.
So, we were sitting out in the garden, and seeing how earlier this morning was our last class, there wasn't a whole lot on the agenda to neither go over or prepare for, so, we just resorted to reading over my final project which I turned in this morning, cool. We had to translate a work we chose, so naturally I chose Confessions of a Shopaholic, 10 pages mind you, so we just started reading.
This is where it becomes Lilli's dream. Francesca and I are reading through it, unfortunately finding silly little errors, despite the fact that I'd probably read over it 10 times, and we have this magical moment where she says "Wow, you've really done well, you really did a good job translating and have improved so much since the start!" HALLELUJAH! So, although I might still get an eyesore of a grade, seeing how the French consider the equivalent of our 'C' to be a good grade, we'll see, but the point is, progress!! It's good to know that someone of authority also sees the effort and improvements I've made–not to come across as arrogant, but if I didn't have progress, there'd be a problem.
So now I'm off to finish practicing for tomorrow's presentation in another class with a motivating & warm professor. It's true what they say about small classes–those two are my smallest classes and the two in which I feel I've gained the most from–be it different learning skills or literary anaysis & presentation, it counts for something.
bisous,
c
Sunday, December 5, 2010
au bord de la mer
I've just gotten back from approximately 24 hours at my host family's weekend getaway: Sausset, which is a little fisherman's town just along the coast from Marseille–in fact, it's got a stellar view of Marseille during the day or, even better, at night, when Notre Dame de la Garde is lit up above the skyline. I was 'tellement heureuse' to get away for a bit, from the windy 30 minute drive there, to the peaceful hour long walk my host mom & I took into town with 'Jipeur,' her brother's friendly & energetic dog, to the cozy-watch-for-the-snow ambiance we had all afternoon there today.
The whole weekend was like a mirror image of what my family does at home: going to our house in the country is one of the nicest luxuries we know. As many fun and relaxing things there may be to do at home, going out in the country is always peaceful & brings you back to the good ole times, where you read children's books for fun and play their games, too.
As I hit the 2 week mark (or the 48 hours X 7 as I like to call it), I continually find myself straddling this rope of happiness & nostalgia for leaving. There are SO many things I can't wait to do (or not do...like catch up on sleep!) when I get home, people to see, winter traditions to partake in, the like. But at the same time, I'm getting closer & closer to my host family, and it's sad to see this chapter of my life come to a close. Even yesterday–probably the 100th time I walked through a 'marché,' and I had a sense of just wanting to photograph every little bit of it, taste each type of fresh vegetable, somehow be able to bring it all back with me to show everyone what it's like. I have to keep telling myself that I'll be back & be able to live it again. Because one thing the French know, that's how to live.
xoxoxo, c
"It's character that makes the beauty of the soul"
The whole weekend was like a mirror image of what my family does at home: going to our house in the country is one of the nicest luxuries we know. As many fun and relaxing things there may be to do at home, going out in the country is always peaceful & brings you back to the good ole times, where you read children's books for fun and play their games, too.
As I hit the 2 week mark (or the 48 hours X 7 as I like to call it), I continually find myself straddling this rope of happiness & nostalgia for leaving. There are SO many things I can't wait to do (or not do...like catch up on sleep!) when I get home, people to see, winter traditions to partake in, the like. But at the same time, I'm getting closer & closer to my host family, and it's sad to see this chapter of my life come to a close. Even yesterday–probably the 100th time I walked through a 'marché,' and I had a sense of just wanting to photograph every little bit of it, taste each type of fresh vegetable, somehow be able to bring it all back with me to show everyone what it's like. I have to keep telling myself that I'll be back & be able to live it again. Because one thing the French know, that's how to live.
xoxoxo, c
"It's character that makes the beauty of the soul"
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
skypey with billy
Quote of the night, in recounting the good and delicious at my family's Thanksgiving feast this year:
"The turkey was good, but it's not about the turkey! It's just the symbol of the Pilgrims."
AMERICA!
"The turkey was good, but it's not about the turkey! It's just the symbol of the Pilgrims."
AMERICA!
Monday, November 29, 2010
i think i ate your chocolate squirrel.
Sorry to disappoint, Liza–this post title isn't to say that we saw any chocolate squirrels–we weren't that lucky–although Lena and I did pass enough chocolate to feed a hungry gaggle of mammoths – and – we did see squirrel memorabilia. Good times, good times.
Here's the photo evidence of the awesome weekend in France's attic. I've decided Brussels is top 2 of my favorite cities visited while here in Europe–I think I'd still place Prague as #1–but I HIGHLY recommend study-abroaders and Eurotripers alike to visit!!
Lenny & I shortly after being reunited!
In front of ... well, this is the way to the Christmas market!
Genuis. This shop had some of the most beautiful (& creative) chocolates I've seen.
In front of a governmental building, waffle in hand.
The goat cheese-apple-honey sandwich I can't stop raving about!
My yellow scarf & gloves combo from Faye blends in with the 'camion' ... in case you can't tell, that's a big thumbs up for the Belgium waffle!
Beautiful...the roofline, of course..
Free samples in every corner of the store??? Len & I 'profited' and tried em all here!
Merry Christmas! Without any 'sanksgeeveeng over here, everyone's been ready for the most wonderful time of the year since they brought out their winter parkas with the first sign of cold. Brussels was no exception, Christmas lights & spirit were a plenty! Pictured with my new hat =)
Here's the photo evidence of the awesome weekend in France's attic. I've decided Brussels is top 2 of my favorite cities visited while here in Europe–I think I'd still place Prague as #1–but I HIGHLY recommend study-abroaders and Eurotripers alike to visit!!
Lenny & I shortly after being reunited!
In front of ... well, this is the way to the Christmas market!
Genuis. This shop had some of the most beautiful (& creative) chocolates I've seen.
In front of a governmental building, waffle in hand.
The goat cheese-apple-honey sandwich I can't stop raving about!
My yellow scarf & gloves combo from Faye blends in with the 'camion' ... in case you can't tell, that's a big thumbs up for the Belgium waffle!
Beautiful...the roofline, of course..
Free samples in every corner of the store??? Len & I 'profited' and tried em all here!
Merry Christmas! Without any 'sanksgeeveeng over here, everyone's been ready for the most wonderful time of the year since they brought out their winter parkas with the first sign of cold. Brussels was no exception, Christmas lights & spirit were a plenty! Pictured with my new hat =)
culturalisms
I love French culture. I JUST discovered this, you ask? Well, no. I've known it secretly all my life. The more and more I wander these zig-zagged streets of Aix-en-Provence I continually realize how glad I am to have had this experience here. As corny as it sounds, I hope this is only my beginning with French culture...who knows, hopefully I'll be lucky enough to come back and travel more in the land I currently call home :) Even on a day like today, cold to the bone–apparently that exists in the south of France, be warned, future AUCPers–I find myself smiling at my life. And this weekend–where I was lucky enough to have some quality time with my lovely roomie Lena–in Brussels, the annex of France, where I could not help but just eat it all up! Literally–it was hysterical. Down to my favorite cookie store in Aix–La Cure Gourmande–Brussels is exactly the same as France. No, it's really not (haha minimization, for those of my fellow classmates who've paid attention the past 2 Mondays in FCP...), but it was simply funny seeing all the similarities with it's southern neighbor. With every corner we turned as we wandered around Saturday–and happened to stumble upon every major governmental building, Christmas market, and chocolate plaza magically with each corner–there were more and more copies of stores & products as what I see in France. It was great!! Things I have not found in France, that obviously Brussels dominates: 1) Lena. it was so great to be reunited with my Copenhagen-obsessed roomie. And thank goodness I chose the south of France over northern Europe, she went home to a foot of snow! 2) Belgium Waffles. Much like the crêpe stands and trucks on every other corner in Aix, there was a plethora of waffle trucks. We tried one & were pleased to say the least. 3) a goat cheese, apple, honey, thyme sandwich. although i only had half along with a cup of carrot soup for lunch Saturday, I can guarantee you that it was the best sandwich I've tasted in Europe. Momma–we are definitely adding this to the repertoire upon my return! A good jar of honey, some goat cheese, and apple slices, and we're good to go. YUM.
Magically, there's less than 3 weeks left. 20 days until I leave France. 20 days until I'm home. 20 days until study abroad is over. 20 days until I kick in Kanye's Workout Plan. 20 days until I say goodbye to my cooler-than-cool host family....It's a lot to think about! I said this to my parents today–I'm beyond homesick now. I've got too much to worry about with school to get wrapped up in missing home, because before I know it, I'm there. Thanksgiving was really tough, I wanted to jump into my computer through skype just to be there. But now, I know that I don't have many more 'mistral' winds to endure on the walk to school and that soon enough it'll be the lake effect wind hitting my face. It's really a time of mixed feelings, but I'm too excited to see my family and be at home to get caught up in being too sentimental about leaving France. I'll always have France, the lovely city of Aix, and my host family loves to travel so hopefully they'll come over to my side of the pond soon. There's so much goodness in the future, I can't but help but feel thankful for all that I've been blessed with continually throughout my life. The little things..those don't matter when you have a great family & a place that you're itching to return to–from France, one of the most fantastic places in the world. Yep, I've got it good.
Happy almost December!!
xoxox, c
Magically, there's less than 3 weeks left. 20 days until I leave France. 20 days until I'm home. 20 days until study abroad is over. 20 days until I kick in Kanye's Workout Plan. 20 days until I say goodbye to my cooler-than-cool host family....It's a lot to think about! I said this to my parents today–I'm beyond homesick now. I've got too much to worry about with school to get wrapped up in missing home, because before I know it, I'm there. Thanksgiving was really tough, I wanted to jump into my computer through skype just to be there. But now, I know that I don't have many more 'mistral' winds to endure on the walk to school and that soon enough it'll be the lake effect wind hitting my face. It's really a time of mixed feelings, but I'm too excited to see my family and be at home to get caught up in being too sentimental about leaving France. I'll always have France, the lovely city of Aix, and my host family loves to travel so hopefully they'll come over to my side of the pond soon. There's so much goodness in the future, I can't but help but feel thankful for all that I've been blessed with continually throughout my life. The little things..those don't matter when you have a great family & a place that you're itching to return to–from France, one of the most fantastic places in the world. Yep, I've got it good.
Happy almost December!!
xoxox, c
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
classic MM
"so the FCC won't let me be
let me be me, so let me see
they try to shut me down on MTV
but it feels so empty without me"
"under your skin like a splinter
the center of attention, back for the winter"
"no i'm not the first king of controversy
i am the worst thing since elvis presley"
8 mile's on my list of 'movies to rewatch' once i get home, it's powerful!
let me be me, so let me see
they try to shut me down on MTV
but it feels so empty without me"
"under your skin like a splinter
the center of attention, back for the winter"
"no i'm not the first king of controversy
i am the worst thing since elvis presley"
8 mile's on my list of 'movies to rewatch' once i get home, it's powerful!
dobby
I've always known I liked the little elf. Well, tonight, my memory's been refreshed on why he's my favorite Harry Potter character.
Tonight was the premier of Harry Potter in the French land, so naturally, being literally surrounded by Harry Potter fanatics most of the time, I myself was getting really excited to see the latest installment, even though I haven't read the books (gasp!) Anyway, I absolutely loved seeing the movie tonight, from the 'rigolo' translations in the French subtitles below the screen, to the appearances of my other favorite character, Snape, and to knowing that my bestest friend was in the land of Harry Potter at the very same moment that I was seeing it all take place.
Despite the fact that I saw the movie in English, surrounding by equally-eager 20-something American fans, somehow seeing a movie in 'Renoir' here in France always seems more sophisticated than any movies I've seen back home. I guess that's the French effect, right? Depending, I might get really brave and go see the movie in French, get the real French effect. How could they possibly translate the uniqueness of Dobby's voice though?! We shall see.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone, I hope you all have the best celebration. Count your blessings and smile for all the lovely people by which you're surrounded, that's what I'll be doing. : )
XOXO, c
PS--how cute was it when he said "Dobby is a free elf ... Dobby came to save Harry Potter and his friends" !!
Tonight was the premier of Harry Potter in the French land, so naturally, being literally surrounded by Harry Potter fanatics most of the time, I myself was getting really excited to see the latest installment, even though I haven't read the books (gasp!) Anyway, I absolutely loved seeing the movie tonight, from the 'rigolo' translations in the French subtitles below the screen, to the appearances of my other favorite character, Snape, and to knowing that my bestest friend was in the land of Harry Potter at the very same moment that I was seeing it all take place.
Despite the fact that I saw the movie in English, surrounding by equally-eager 20-something American fans, somehow seeing a movie in 'Renoir' here in France always seems more sophisticated than any movies I've seen back home. I guess that's the French effect, right? Depending, I might get really brave and go see the movie in French, get the real French effect. How could they possibly translate the uniqueness of Dobby's voice though?! We shall see.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone, I hope you all have the best celebration. Count your blessings and smile for all the lovely people by which you're surrounded, that's what I'll be doing. : )
XOXO, c
PS--how cute was it when he said "Dobby is a free elf ... Dobby came to save Harry Potter and his friends" !!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
fight the feeling
Besides the post title coming from a song (Ides of March, anyone?), it's actually something I'm going through right now. Not to sound too melodramatic, but I'd have to say the biggest challenge I've had to deal with is homesickness.
I'm coming off a great, great weekend in charming, Christmas-fied Aix-en-Provence with one of the most beautiful people in the world, my Momma. I couldn't have had more fun walking around the French city I call my home-away-from-home. Being with her for four happy days made me see Aix like I was seeing it for the first time: together, we'd sit in cafés and boulangeries, noticing all the small things that I typically overlook on my fast-paced walks back and forth between home and school. When the weather was pouty and the jet-lag kicked in, we'd retreat to our clean and cozy hotel room, where we slept in twin beds 'a côté de' each other and attempt to watch 30 Rock, Glee, and Parenthood on Megavideo and Itunes. We'd go out to restaurants I usually would overlook and discover why the two Georges–Castanza and Steinbrenner on Seinfeld– loved calzones so much. Seeing the joy reflecting in her eyes as she discovered Aix gave me inspiration and more joy than I could adequately put into words.
Now that she's safe and sound back at home, probably tucked in getting ready to watch "Parenthood" tonight, I have to get back to the real world of final papers, interviews, and the like. It was a dream to get to show off my beloved Aix-en-Provence this weekend, but now I'm trying to snap myself out of the homesick feeling that started to rise about 24 hours ago as I went to bed before my mom left before the sunrise this morning. It's tough knowing that my family's going to have their first Thanksgiving celebration, "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" and all, just like normal while I'm away.
I'm so fortunate to have had the opportunity to grow and explore abroad. I've learned so many things here, love so many things here, and will miss them, too, but nonetheless, I can't wait to go home. I'm living in the moment for now (which is very French, in case you didn't know!), but my American spirit can't help but imagine the joyous scene O'Hare will be in 4 short weeks–who knew I'd ever be excited to go to ORD?!
Happy Thanksgiving friends, make sure to put extra gravy on your rice potatoes for me:)
xoxo, c
I'm coming off a great, great weekend in charming, Christmas-fied Aix-en-Provence with one of the most beautiful people in the world, my Momma. I couldn't have had more fun walking around the French city I call my home-away-from-home. Being with her for four happy days made me see Aix like I was seeing it for the first time: together, we'd sit in cafés and boulangeries, noticing all the small things that I typically overlook on my fast-paced walks back and forth between home and school. When the weather was pouty and the jet-lag kicked in, we'd retreat to our clean and cozy hotel room, where we slept in twin beds 'a côté de' each other and attempt to watch 30 Rock, Glee, and Parenthood on Megavideo and Itunes. We'd go out to restaurants I usually would overlook and discover why the two Georges–Castanza and Steinbrenner on Seinfeld– loved calzones so much. Seeing the joy reflecting in her eyes as she discovered Aix gave me inspiration and more joy than I could adequately put into words.
Now that she's safe and sound back at home, probably tucked in getting ready to watch "Parenthood" tonight, I have to get back to the real world of final papers, interviews, and the like. It was a dream to get to show off my beloved Aix-en-Provence this weekend, but now I'm trying to snap myself out of the homesick feeling that started to rise about 24 hours ago as I went to bed before my mom left before the sunrise this morning. It's tough knowing that my family's going to have their first Thanksgiving celebration, "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" and all, just like normal while I'm away.
I'm so fortunate to have had the opportunity to grow and explore abroad. I've learned so many things here, love so many things here, and will miss them, too, but nonetheless, I can't wait to go home. I'm living in the moment for now (which is very French, in case you didn't know!), but my American spirit can't help but imagine the joyous scene O'Hare will be in 4 short weeks–who knew I'd ever be excited to go to ORD?!
Happy Thanksgiving friends, make sure to put extra gravy on your rice potatoes for me:)
xoxo, c
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
What's up Prague, what's up?
Sir Mix-a-Lot reference, in case you're obsessed like my Pop and I–you're welcome.
I loved Prague. I didn't really know what to expect in going, other than knowing it's one of the worst places for pickpockets and that none of my parents had ever been. Besides that, I confusedly knew of their different currency used in the Czech Republic, which would completely mess with our brains all weekend as we tried to calculate conversion rates for this supposed "cheap" place–which was seemingly contradictory to the large numbers of bills, ect–a sandwhich is around 75 crowns, for example. The last thing that I knew is that I'm 25% Czech, which, for a girl who's more of a mutt than most dogs at the pound, is saying something. This was a close as I was going to get to Ali's "trip to the homeland" in going to her family's origins in Italia. I was pumped.
We stayed in Old Town in a lovely, penny-cheap, apartment with high ceilings and an Annie-like bedroom, where we each had comfy twin beds all in a row. We made dinner for ourselves on Saturday night–wait, that was me who cooked! Even if it was chicken noodle soup and a simple baguette & cheese "apéritif," it was pretty good, if I do say so myself.
We were in walking distance to virtually everything all weekend, including the 5 story night club, "the biggest dance club in Central Europe," where Sage and I explored the...interesting...choices in dance halls. We had the most fun observing the chillhouse on the top floor, which vaguely resembled the Bandersnatch (AH! I miss Denison!), where girls wearing flannel and baggy jeans–big contrast to the regular skanky-Saturday-night-dress code in the rest of the club–were doing this sort of freestyle meets hip hop meets interpretive dance-off; it was a great way for us to wind down after 4 other floors of bass pumping.
Besides that, the girls took down the city during both days we were there by doing lots of sightseeing, and "en fait," no shopping! Prague isn't known for their shopping, but it's quite impressed that we walked away from the city without stumbling upon the shopping district! It's fair to say that I fell in love with Old Town Market in Prague; I could have stayed their all day, just watching and learning about the history just in that little part of town. It was the first sight we saw–the tower, the Harry Potter look-alike other tower, and of course, my fascination, the little stands in the middle of the square, each boasting its own delicious scent. I could have sat there forever just taking in all that's going around me–I've never seen so many tourist groups in one place–all the while, observing the stunning architecture all around me. And manging, un peu ;)
Here's a collection of shots from the weekend. I highly recommend to anyone who studies abroad to make the effort to go there; coming from a Frenchie, it was great to get out and see Eastern Europe and how it, too, is a fairy tale land in the name!
On top of the tower (sorry! I was an ignorant tourist and don't know the name of it) overlooking the castle (again, I was only there for the weekend!), which is the largest castle in the world!
Trdelnik, or otherwise known as "that thing!" between Sage and I. We tried this on the way out of town, it's basically doughy on the inside, warm with a crunch on the outside, and dipped & rolled in sugar. Trust me, you've got to try it if you go!
Looking down on Old Town Square; this is where I'd spend afternoons pondering if I was a study-abroader in Praha.
Lunch! The pretzels were too good-looking to resist. Thank goodness Jamie loves food like I do!
The Harry Potter Castle, I could stare at it for hours!
Sage and I, Denison's finest!
A close up on the castle. With the afternoon sun hitting it just so, it was even more beautiful up-close and personal.
Now the clock's just struck midnight (Cinderella bedtime for me!), which means TOMORROW my momma will be with me!!!
peace, love, and croissants,
c
I loved Prague. I didn't really know what to expect in going, other than knowing it's one of the worst places for pickpockets and that none of my parents had ever been. Besides that, I confusedly knew of their different currency used in the Czech Republic, which would completely mess with our brains all weekend as we tried to calculate conversion rates for this supposed "cheap" place–which was seemingly contradictory to the large numbers of bills, ect–a sandwhich is around 75 crowns, for example. The last thing that I knew is that I'm 25% Czech, which, for a girl who's more of a mutt than most dogs at the pound, is saying something. This was a close as I was going to get to Ali's "trip to the homeland" in going to her family's origins in Italia. I was pumped.
We stayed in Old Town in a lovely, penny-cheap, apartment with high ceilings and an Annie-like bedroom, where we each had comfy twin beds all in a row. We made dinner for ourselves on Saturday night–wait, that was me who cooked! Even if it was chicken noodle soup and a simple baguette & cheese "apéritif," it was pretty good, if I do say so myself.
We were in walking distance to virtually everything all weekend, including the 5 story night club, "the biggest dance club in Central Europe," where Sage and I explored the...interesting...choices in dance halls. We had the most fun observing the chillhouse on the top floor, which vaguely resembled the Bandersnatch (AH! I miss Denison!), where girls wearing flannel and baggy jeans–big contrast to the regular skanky-Saturday-night-dress code in the rest of the club–were doing this sort of freestyle meets hip hop meets interpretive dance-off; it was a great way for us to wind down after 4 other floors of bass pumping.
Besides that, the girls took down the city during both days we were there by doing lots of sightseeing, and "en fait," no shopping! Prague isn't known for their shopping, but it's quite impressed that we walked away from the city without stumbling upon the shopping district! It's fair to say that I fell in love with Old Town Market in Prague; I could have stayed their all day, just watching and learning about the history just in that little part of town. It was the first sight we saw–the tower, the Harry Potter look-alike other tower, and of course, my fascination, the little stands in the middle of the square, each boasting its own delicious scent. I could have sat there forever just taking in all that's going around me–I've never seen so many tourist groups in one place–all the while, observing the stunning architecture all around me. And manging, un peu ;)
Here's a collection of shots from the weekend. I highly recommend to anyone who studies abroad to make the effort to go there; coming from a Frenchie, it was great to get out and see Eastern Europe and how it, too, is a fairy tale land in the name!
On top of the tower (sorry! I was an ignorant tourist and don't know the name of it) overlooking the castle (again, I was only there for the weekend!), which is the largest castle in the world!
Trdelnik, or otherwise known as "that thing!" between Sage and I. We tried this on the way out of town, it's basically doughy on the inside, warm with a crunch on the outside, and dipped & rolled in sugar. Trust me, you've got to try it if you go!
Looking down on Old Town Square; this is where I'd spend afternoons pondering if I was a study-abroader in Praha.
Lunch! The pretzels were too good-looking to resist. Thank goodness Jamie loves food like I do!
The Harry Potter Castle, I could stare at it for hours!
Sage and I, Denison's finest!
A close up on the castle. With the afternoon sun hitting it just so, it was even more beautiful up-close and personal.
Now the clock's just struck midnight (Cinderella bedtime for me!), which means TOMORROW my momma will be with me!!!
peace, love, and croissants,
c
A TAAAABBLE!
Literally every night at home since I've been in France, I've heard this phrase. A Table = Dinner time! So, of course it's a "phrase clé" in my book. Normally, this shout out is given by my humble host mom, as her one moment "à voix forte" per night. Then, when we're all around the table, it's my host sisters who take over with the loud voices and "blagues," or the senseless (funny) banter that goes on throughout and after the whole meal.
Tonight, it seemed like everybody got in their moment of goofiness into the meal. Before, "comme normale," Alix was wrestling with someone, and then she pressed everyone to get to the table so she could get to bed at a decent time. Morgane and Auriane were singing a fair bit and going back and forth (all in good humor), and even my host parents got in on the jokes. Axel and I laughed as we tried to see how well Elisabeth's hearing works when she's upstairs–I didn't quite get every single word he said, and wasn't about to spoil a good laugh for a direct translation, but I'm pretty sure that the idea of "selective hearing" exists in France just the same.
As I near the 30 day mark for the rest of my "séjour" here in beautiful, beautiful France, I've started to reflect more and more about everything around me, including what I'm learning about myself. At the same time as I've been fairly profoud with these thoughts, it's the "dégustation" of Aixoise foods which is most pressing for me right now. With only a month left, it's become a top priority of mine–and Kiely, who is literally my food soul mate through and through–to try nearly every croissant in town, among other bready items. Food here is such a rich, and FUN!, part of life that there's no reason not to enjoy it here, especially when I know I won't be able to eat these favorite foods of mine day by day back in the States.
Cheers to my mommy coming this weekend to see the deliciousness herself! I can't WAIT!
xoxo,
c
Tonight, it seemed like everybody got in their moment of goofiness into the meal. Before, "comme normale," Alix was wrestling with someone, and then she pressed everyone to get to the table so she could get to bed at a decent time. Morgane and Auriane were singing a fair bit and going back and forth (all in good humor), and even my host parents got in on the jokes. Axel and I laughed as we tried to see how well Elisabeth's hearing works when she's upstairs–I didn't quite get every single word he said, and wasn't about to spoil a good laugh for a direct translation, but I'm pretty sure that the idea of "selective hearing" exists in France just the same.
As I near the 30 day mark for the rest of my "séjour" here in beautiful, beautiful France, I've started to reflect more and more about everything around me, including what I'm learning about myself. At the same time as I've been fairly profoud with these thoughts, it's the "dégustation" of Aixoise foods which is most pressing for me right now. With only a month left, it's become a top priority of mine–and Kiely, who is literally my food soul mate through and through–to try nearly every croissant in town, among other bready items. Food here is such a rich, and FUN!, part of life that there's no reason not to enjoy it here, especially when I know I won't be able to eat these favorite foods of mine day by day back in the States.
Cheers to my mommy coming this weekend to see the deliciousness herself! I can't WAIT!
xoxo,
c
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
guillemets
I have three simple quotes that have struck me tonight, all from different sources. Take them for what you will, I find them to be charming and inspirational!
"I will never abandon printed media whilst recognizing it could abandon me first" -Pop
"I couldn't be any happier" - Billy
"It was a morsel of perfection." -Julia Child
And from that, I will find everything I might ever need in life: passion for print media, happiness, and wonderful, wonderful food.
Smiles and croissants,
c
"I will never abandon printed media whilst recognizing it could abandon me first" -Pop
"I couldn't be any happier" - Billy
"It was a morsel of perfection." -Julia Child
And from that, I will find everything I might ever need in life: passion for print media, happiness, and wonderful, wonderful food.
Smiles and croissants,
c
Monday, November 8, 2010
it's the most wonderful time of the year
That is, here at AUCP!
It seems like with each new day, there's another parent/boyfriend/friend visiting one of my classmates. Luck enough for me, I can say I've already seen my Pops and my Momma will soon be on her way, too! I can't wait to show off AIX, my host family, and my lovely lovely friends here when she comes. It's going to be GREAT!
Here's a list of things I've got to look forward to:
--My Momma will be here in 10 days.
--I'm going to Prague & Brussels within the next 3 weeks.
--My quest to try more and more foods in Aix is going well. Today I tried a quiche from the tighest little luncherie that ever exists. In order for us to order, we had to move in and out of the shop multiple times to allow the patrons to pass in and out, who by the way apparently all had reservations to dine in–with hardly a dozen spots in the dining area, we were gonna have to take it to go. Donc, Ali & I ate along the fountain, despite the seemingly-freezing temps. At 2.10 for arguably one of the best légume quiches I've ever had, I'll deal with the tight space inside to taste it again!
--I'm over halfway done with my Translation final paper! I think I made a good choice translating "Confessions of a Shopaholic." Only slightly a reflection of myself, it was a fun book I just finished (on my Nook!), and I'm attempting to convey its fun spirit into the French language!
--Thursday we have off because it's armistice day, so Sage, Elodie & I are planning on going to Marseille to try Bouillabaisse. Knock that off the 'to eat' list!
--Thanksgiving & Christmas are SOON! So sad I won't be at home for the annual viewing of "Planes, Trains, & Automobiles" on turkey day, nor to be missing that special, special holiday with my fam, buttttt at least I will be home for the holidays in the greatest city ever–CHICAGO! So many things to look forward to & to be thankful for, don't you agree? :)
<3s and smiles,
c
It seems like with each new day, there's another parent/boyfriend/friend visiting one of my classmates. Luck enough for me, I can say I've already seen my Pops and my Momma will soon be on her way, too! I can't wait to show off AIX, my host family, and my lovely lovely friends here when she comes. It's going to be GREAT!
Here's a list of things I've got to look forward to:
--My Momma will be here in 10 days.
--I'm going to Prague & Brussels within the next 3 weeks.
--My quest to try more and more foods in Aix is going well. Today I tried a quiche from the tighest little luncherie that ever exists. In order for us to order, we had to move in and out of the shop multiple times to allow the patrons to pass in and out, who by the way apparently all had reservations to dine in–with hardly a dozen spots in the dining area, we were gonna have to take it to go. Donc, Ali & I ate along the fountain, despite the seemingly-freezing temps. At 2.10 for arguably one of the best légume quiches I've ever had, I'll deal with the tight space inside to taste it again!
--I'm over halfway done with my Translation final paper! I think I made a good choice translating "Confessions of a Shopaholic." Only slightly a reflection of myself, it was a fun book I just finished (on my Nook!), and I'm attempting to convey its fun spirit into the French language!
--Thursday we have off because it's armistice day, so Sage, Elodie & I are planning on going to Marseille to try Bouillabaisse. Knock that off the 'to eat' list!
--Thanksgiving & Christmas are SOON! So sad I won't be at home for the annual viewing of "Planes, Trains, & Automobiles" on turkey day, nor to be missing that special, special holiday with my fam, buttttt at least I will be home for the holidays in the greatest city ever–CHICAGO! So many things to look forward to & to be thankful for, don't you agree? :)
<3s and smiles,
c
Sunday, November 7, 2010
food for thought
Since Jean Michel, the head professor, who we all seem to idolize and day dream about at the same time, loves to interject "food for thought" and other little English phrases into daily class (which seem so much cuter with a French accent, n'est-ce pas?), I thought it'd be a good title for this food post.
Word is spreading among AUCPers that I am a major foodie. It's a constant topic of conversation, and more and more of my fellow classmates agree that it's only appropriate that we continue to taste test and experiment as much as we can in our 6 weeks that rest. When in Rome, right? Waistline worries aside, we're ready to taste test bakeries for breakfast out at the end of the week with Kiely (and Abby is to join us soon!) and check out the previously-ignored petit restaurants, cafés, and "snacks" within walking distance of our American Center bubble. I myself have said I WILL find the best coffee, teas, croissants, crêpes, vegetables, navettes, bagels ect ect around! I have my opinions so far, but there's plenty more out there to try!
Here's a sample of the week's best selections:
An American breakfast prepared by Alix earlier this week, it was a great little bit of nostalgia to have eggs & toast!
My lunchs this week: salad w/ tomatoes, grapes, and baguette & cheese sandwiches. I found a really good, parmesean-like cheese at the market Tuesday morning and it made my tummy smile all week!
A crêpe tree, or something like it. Chelsea and Kayla were lovely company for a Friday afternoon post-exams celebration. Accompaning the hot crêpes were nutella, apple butter, dark chocolate spreads and banana, pear, and warmed apple inserts, and whipped cream to top off our "make your own" experience. "Mix and match-y" definitely came into play here as we experimented for the best combinations! Good choice, girls.
The Mississipp-bound to be one of my favorites!
And dessert afterwards–for weeks I've resisted the divine-looking Americana desserts at Bagel Story, but for an afternoon of studying, I think sharing the NY Original Cheesecake (so they say) with berries on top was a good choice. Two spoons rationalizes any decision, right?
Gros Bisous,
c
Word is spreading among AUCPers that I am a major foodie. It's a constant topic of conversation, and more and more of my fellow classmates agree that it's only appropriate that we continue to taste test and experiment as much as we can in our 6 weeks that rest. When in Rome, right? Waistline worries aside, we're ready to taste test bakeries for breakfast out at the end of the week with Kiely (and Abby is to join us soon!) and check out the previously-ignored petit restaurants, cafés, and "snacks" within walking distance of our American Center bubble. I myself have said I WILL find the best coffee, teas, croissants, crêpes, vegetables, navettes, bagels ect ect around! I have my opinions so far, but there's plenty more out there to try!
Here's a sample of the week's best selections:
An American breakfast prepared by Alix earlier this week, it was a great little bit of nostalgia to have eggs & toast!
My lunchs this week: salad w/ tomatoes, grapes, and baguette & cheese sandwiches. I found a really good, parmesean-like cheese at the market Tuesday morning and it made my tummy smile all week!
A crêpe tree, or something like it. Chelsea and Kayla were lovely company for a Friday afternoon post-exams celebration. Accompaning the hot crêpes were nutella, apple butter, dark chocolate spreads and banana, pear, and warmed apple inserts, and whipped cream to top off our "make your own" experience. "Mix and match-y" definitely came into play here as we experimented for the best combinations! Good choice, girls.
The Mississipp-bound to be one of my favorites!
And dessert afterwards–for weeks I've resisted the divine-looking Americana desserts at Bagel Story, but for an afternoon of studying, I think sharing the NY Original Cheesecake (so they say) with berries on top was a good choice. Two spoons rationalizes any decision, right?
Gros Bisous,
c
Thursday, November 4, 2010
it's all about the applesauce.
My running joke with my host family, last name Mott, is that they should be applesauce heirs at this point. Every night after dinner, my host mom kindly lays out a selection of yogurts (vive Activia! haha LIZA) & sauces (we have raspberry and peach varieties), but alas, Mott's doesn't exist over here. Tant pis.
Anyways, to present yall the lovely family with whom I'm lucky to be spending the semester with, I have some pictures from this weekend's 'grande fête,' which rang in my host mom's 50th birthday!
My host mom and I, isn't she pretty here on her big day?!
With my lovely oldest host sister, Morgane, and Etienne, a family friend of my host family.
Alix-the goof of the family! We have a lot of fun together.
Alix showing Auriane, my youngest host sister, some love, how cute.
And finally, my host parents, Axel and Elisabeth, up in the air, literally, as the guests lifted them both up in the air on chairs. French party tradition? Not sure, but it was cute!
I might also add, to prove my host family's awesomeness, I just spent the evening watching the Lion King, in french, with two of my host sisters, and none other than our very own 'Roi Lion,' Simba, one of my host cats. And yes, I did just call him that. Alix reenacted the bapism scene of Simba as it played on the screen, with Auriane and I singing along, in our respective languages, the words to Elton's beautiful tunes. It was quite a snuggle scene, I won't be forgetting it soon.
Hakuna Matata,
c
Anyways, to present yall the lovely family with whom I'm lucky to be spending the semester with, I have some pictures from this weekend's 'grande fête,' which rang in my host mom's 50th birthday!
My host mom and I, isn't she pretty here on her big day?!
With my lovely oldest host sister, Morgane, and Etienne, a family friend of my host family.
Alix-the goof of the family! We have a lot of fun together.
Alix showing Auriane, my youngest host sister, some love, how cute.
And finally, my host parents, Axel and Elisabeth, up in the air, literally, as the guests lifted them both up in the air on chairs. French party tradition? Not sure, but it was cute!
I might also add, to prove my host family's awesomeness, I just spent the evening watching the Lion King, in french, with two of my host sisters, and none other than our very own 'Roi Lion,' Simba, one of my host cats. And yes, I did just call him that. Alix reenacted the bapism scene of Simba as it played on the screen, with Auriane and I singing along, in our respective languages, the words to Elton's beautiful tunes. It was quite a snuggle scene, I won't be forgetting it soon.
Hakuna Matata,
c
empowering.
Hi, blog friends!
Coming off a few sun-shiny, stress-free days in Aix, I find it most appropriate to post an uplifting and energetic post. Here's my simple, happy list of things that keep my spirits high while as I continue along in my world of French-ness.
--Running. This goes along with the next thing on my list, but it's been so great having the time–and nice enough weather–that I can get out and pound the pavement. My bro' Billy is, as always, such an inspiration–wishing him & the HC XC team the best of luck at state this week!!
--Less homework. While I understand it's importance, I'm like any other student in that I'd rather have my afternoons free to tea-taste with sweet girls like Chelsea than to have to put myself in a cell to huncker down for hours of 'travail.' Gross!
--French bread. I loved Italy, don't get me wrong, but my croissant and café from Paul this morning lived up to the name–the chain 'boulangerie,' with shops all over France, even at the Louvre, is the Puryicard of bakeries (Jamie, I hope you're reading this!!)
--Translation. Since I haven't had as much work to do, I've been able to get a little ahead with my term project for 'mon cours de traduction,' in which we get to choose a work in English and translate. 10 pages, nonetheless, but I'm trying to get a headstart for now. I'm translating "Confessions of a Shopaholic," which I am about to finish reading anyways, so I'm having a good time with it.
--Watching Lion King, in French, with my host sisters, and most importantly, Le Roi Lion himself, our very own pet cat, Simba, who graced us with his precense as we watched the story of his life. Absolutely hilarious! We had quite some fun singing the songs together, me in English and the girls in French, quite the harmony, I must say!
That's all, folks! (sorry, I know I'm not Porky Pig!)
XOXOXO, c
Coming off a few sun-shiny, stress-free days in Aix, I find it most appropriate to post an uplifting and energetic post. Here's my simple, happy list of things that keep my spirits high while as I continue along in my world of French-ness.
--Running. This goes along with the next thing on my list, but it's been so great having the time–and nice enough weather–that I can get out and pound the pavement. My bro' Billy is, as always, such an inspiration–wishing him & the HC XC team the best of luck at state this week!!
--Less homework. While I understand it's importance, I'm like any other student in that I'd rather have my afternoons free to tea-taste with sweet girls like Chelsea than to have to put myself in a cell to huncker down for hours of 'travail.' Gross!
--French bread. I loved Italy, don't get me wrong, but my croissant and café from Paul this morning lived up to the name–the chain 'boulangerie,' with shops all over France, even at the Louvre, is the Puryicard of bakeries (Jamie, I hope you're reading this!!)
--Translation. Since I haven't had as much work to do, I've been able to get a little ahead with my term project for 'mon cours de traduction,' in which we get to choose a work in English and translate. 10 pages, nonetheless, but I'm trying to get a headstart for now. I'm translating "Confessions of a Shopaholic," which I am about to finish reading anyways, so I'm having a good time with it.
--Watching Lion King, in French, with my host sisters, and most importantly, Le Roi Lion himself, our very own pet cat, Simba, who graced us with his precense as we watched the story of his life. Absolutely hilarious! We had quite some fun singing the songs together, me in English and the girls in French, quite the harmony, I must say!
That's all, folks! (sorry, I know I'm not Porky Pig!)
XOXOXO, c
Friday, October 29, 2010
cars, cars, cars
Fiat: if I can't have a MINI for the rest of my life, I want you.
Milan is the capital of many, many Porsches, it made me happy. Here's a cute yellow one in the distance.
Need I explain further how adorable this car is?
MINI! As Pop said, if I need a family-sized car, the Mini hatchback would be a good option.
An old Fiat...Put Pop and I together, and we will find all the cool cars Italy has to offer!
Milan is the capital of many, many Porsches, it made me happy. Here's a cute yellow one in the distance.
Need I explain further how adorable this car is?
MINI! As Pop said, if I need a family-sized car, the Mini hatchback would be a good option.
An old Fiat...Put Pop and I together, and we will find all the cool cars Italy has to offer!
food, food, food
My favorite capp, from The Break Cafe in Milan.
And to go along with it, a tuna salad, completed with the edible bowl in which it was served.
The Oil Shoppe: a basic sandwich shoppe, but soo a master at its art. In our 4 days in Florence, we ate lunch there 3 times. Wow. Below is the basic prosciutto, cheese, and arugula panini on whole wheat bread.
Bad boy, gelato! According to our friend Judy, if gelato is overflowing the top of its container, it's been commercially-made and therefore won't be as delicious as the homemade. Not sure how perfect this theory is, though, as virtually every gelateria seemed to have overflowing rainbows of flavors.
Vegetable focaccia bread
We craved, and we craved. A waffle sandwich with cookie gelato in the middle. I thought I'd wait until Brussels for an authentic Belgium waffle, but I couldn't resist! (I couldn't eat it all, that's saying something!)
At a local restaurant recommended to us, a delicious starter cheese, pear, and honey salad, which Ali and I shared/fought over,..sooo good!
One of my best salads of my life. Three key ingredients: thinly shaved beef, balsamic, and parmesan.
Two capps and two petites tartes. Cut it in two, share half with me!
An epically delicious dessert from an epic night. Rice ice cream with berries and whip. This puts Champps' messy sundae to shame (Billy's childhood favorite...what am I kidding, it was my favorite, too!)
And to go along with it, a tuna salad, completed with the edible bowl in which it was served.
The Oil Shoppe: a basic sandwich shoppe, but soo a master at its art. In our 4 days in Florence, we ate lunch there 3 times. Wow. Below is the basic prosciutto, cheese, and arugula panini on whole wheat bread.
Bad boy, gelato! According to our friend Judy, if gelato is overflowing the top of its container, it's been commercially-made and therefore won't be as delicious as the homemade. Not sure how perfect this theory is, though, as virtually every gelateria seemed to have overflowing rainbows of flavors.
Vegetable focaccia bread
We craved, and we craved. A waffle sandwich with cookie gelato in the middle. I thought I'd wait until Brussels for an authentic Belgium waffle, but I couldn't resist! (I couldn't eat it all, that's saying something!)
At a local restaurant recommended to us, a delicious starter cheese, pear, and honey salad, which Ali and I shared/fought over,..sooo good!
One of my best salads of my life. Three key ingredients: thinly shaved beef, balsamic, and parmesan.
Two capps and two petites tartes. Cut it in two, share half with me!
An epically delicious dessert from an epic night. Rice ice cream with berries and whip. This puts Champps' messy sundae to shame (Billy's childhood favorite...what am I kidding, it was my favorite, too!)
the big food face off
Italia vs. France: Qui gagne?
As my most loyal readers know, I am a foodie in heaven over here in Europe. I am studying along the Mediterranean, in FRANCE, which is a double combination for food deliciousness. My travel buddies often noticed this week how I couldn't help but describe my meals as "beautiful," which is a natural instinct for me when I "mange" something so perfectly crafted that it should be evaluated on a scale of beauty.
I was fortunate enough to spend a week of my 10 day fall break in Milan and Florence with some of the coolest girls to ever set foot in the American Center, and even more lucky to have 28 hours with my Papa, who flew down to Florence for a short visit after doing business in London town. Not bad, eh?
Here's my full food report for the week:
Hotel Cadour in Milan has an amazing bread basket, and if you ask enough, the refill will keep getting bigger. Prime time for such dining luxuries: 10 pm on a Friday night, so you can watch the elegantly-courteous waiters start laying out the breakfast buffet for the next morning. Yay for 4 star hotels and their luxuries you can't help but love!
Cappucinos: Almost never are they bad, but in Italy they were impeccable. From the first one we had, on our shopping break Saturday in Milan, with a hand-crafted leave design in the foam, to the perfectly-creamy Sunday afternoon capp at the Break Cafe, I was not disappointed. In Aix, I've tried to stick to expressos because it's cheaper and more calorie-friendly, but there's just no way to resist an Italian coffee dream. Note: I did try a real Italian coffee but prefer the flavor of black coffee in the land of Frogs. Between the two countries, all coffee needs can be covered pretty darn well. :)
Pastries, breads, and sweets: I pick France. I was disappointed by the croissants in Italy after eating the flakiest, softest ones in the world for 2 months straight. The gelato in Italy was amazing, but I'd choose nutella crêpes over anything these days.
Dinners: Italy wins. Every meal we ate was a WOW, especially our dinner out with Poppa, where we all had our best meal of our life, without a doubt. It was so special being out with him and my new abroad friends, I literally could write an essay about the whole experience. I will, stay tuned for that soon! That meal & my time with my Pop deserves its own post. But, back to dinners overall, what I've decided is that the food in France will never disappoint, but I have not had the same WOW effect as easily (for a lower price, no less!) as I had in the multiple cities and restaurants in which we dined in Italia.
Not to pull a Switzerland on you, but honestly, I'd say it's a tie for which food country prevails. I like things about each country's cuisine, but am happy as ever to come back to the south of France to have the comfort of tomatoes and unbeatable bread products. Although, I'd be open to going back to confirm my verdict... :)
As my most loyal readers know, I am a foodie in heaven over here in Europe. I am studying along the Mediterranean, in FRANCE, which is a double combination for food deliciousness. My travel buddies often noticed this week how I couldn't help but describe my meals as "beautiful," which is a natural instinct for me when I "mange" something so perfectly crafted that it should be evaluated on a scale of beauty.
I was fortunate enough to spend a week of my 10 day fall break in Milan and Florence with some of the coolest girls to ever set foot in the American Center, and even more lucky to have 28 hours with my Papa, who flew down to Florence for a short visit after doing business in London town. Not bad, eh?
Here's my full food report for the week:
Hotel Cadour in Milan has an amazing bread basket, and if you ask enough, the refill will keep getting bigger. Prime time for such dining luxuries: 10 pm on a Friday night, so you can watch the elegantly-courteous waiters start laying out the breakfast buffet for the next morning. Yay for 4 star hotels and their luxuries you can't help but love!
Cappucinos: Almost never are they bad, but in Italy they were impeccable. From the first one we had, on our shopping break Saturday in Milan, with a hand-crafted leave design in the foam, to the perfectly-creamy Sunday afternoon capp at the Break Cafe, I was not disappointed. In Aix, I've tried to stick to expressos because it's cheaper and more calorie-friendly, but there's just no way to resist an Italian coffee dream. Note: I did try a real Italian coffee but prefer the flavor of black coffee in the land of Frogs. Between the two countries, all coffee needs can be covered pretty darn well. :)
Pastries, breads, and sweets: I pick France. I was disappointed by the croissants in Italy after eating the flakiest, softest ones in the world for 2 months straight. The gelato in Italy was amazing, but I'd choose nutella crêpes over anything these days.
Dinners: Italy wins. Every meal we ate was a WOW, especially our dinner out with Poppa, where we all had our best meal of our life, without a doubt. It was so special being out with him and my new abroad friends, I literally could write an essay about the whole experience. I will, stay tuned for that soon! That meal & my time with my Pop deserves its own post. But, back to dinners overall, what I've decided is that the food in France will never disappoint, but I have not had the same WOW effect as easily (for a lower price, no less!) as I had in the multiple cities and restaurants in which we dined in Italia.
Not to pull a Switzerland on you, but honestly, I'd say it's a tie for which food country prevails. I like things about each country's cuisine, but am happy as ever to come back to the south of France to have the comfort of tomatoes and unbeatable bread products. Although, I'd be open to going back to confirm my verdict... :)
"that's so random"
Post title is in honor of Pete, I know how much you like when we say that. Why does that not translate to French?
Anyways, for all the other noteworthy things need to be said about Italy, I have this post.
-- The fake Duomo is not that cool.
-- I found comfort in the industrial feel to Milan. Maybe a cold, modern city reminded me of home..? Not sure if that's a good thing, but either way, the "high rises" in this fashion hub had a slight resemblance to the 'scrapers in Chi city.
-- I have passed 1K photos for the semester in France. Will I hit 2K by the end? We shall see...
-- I find comfort in the happiness I felt coming back to my host family's house. Home. I may only be here for 6 more weeks or so, but I definitely feel that this is home here, which is only a testament to my warm host family, not to knock on my AMAZING family back home!
-- I am so, so close to finishing The Book. SO GOOD. If you haven't read Steig Larsson's series, you are seriously missing out on a wild ride.
-- My blackberry has been only of my most valuable items with me in Europe. When our pay-as-you-go phones from France wouldn't work in Italy, it was great knowing that Ali and I had BBM to keep us in touch, in case we might end up on the opposite side of the shopping plazas. ;)
-- Italian men are slimy. No, European men, as a whole, can be very slimy. There are hunks all over, but I did not appreciate the eager Italian eyes that we on the prowl out in bars and clubs the past week. No, thank you.
-- What's with the French? Two discoveries I made this week was that the waitstaff and salespeople in restaurants and stores were much friendlier, and, to top it off, the prices for both were more reasonable! Horray for the 7 euro plate of food, WHY don't you exist in French restaurants?!
--It's a small, small world when you study abroad. Here's a recap on the people I met this week, just out and about in Italy: a girl from JMU (where my momma went to school!) studying in London, 2 UK guys teaching in Nice, a Midwestern guy also vacationing avec parentals, about 15 people with connections to Ali, and a Hungarian/Canadian girl finishing grad studies in Aix ! I love meeting other people who are in the same boat, it's cool to hear what everyone's doing as we 20-somethings take over Europe!
Anyways, for all the other noteworthy things need to be said about Italy, I have this post.
-- The fake Duomo is not that cool.
-- I found comfort in the industrial feel to Milan. Maybe a cold, modern city reminded me of home..? Not sure if that's a good thing, but either way, the "high rises" in this fashion hub had a slight resemblance to the 'scrapers in Chi city.
-- I have passed 1K photos for the semester in France. Will I hit 2K by the end? We shall see...
-- I find comfort in the happiness I felt coming back to my host family's house. Home. I may only be here for 6 more weeks or so, but I definitely feel that this is home here, which is only a testament to my warm host family, not to knock on my AMAZING family back home!
-- I am so, so close to finishing The Book. SO GOOD. If you haven't read Steig Larsson's series, you are seriously missing out on a wild ride.
-- My blackberry has been only of my most valuable items with me in Europe. When our pay-as-you-go phones from France wouldn't work in Italy, it was great knowing that Ali and I had BBM to keep us in touch, in case we might end up on the opposite side of the shopping plazas. ;)
-- Italian men are slimy. No, European men, as a whole, can be very slimy. There are hunks all over, but I did not appreciate the eager Italian eyes that we on the prowl out in bars and clubs the past week. No, thank you.
-- What's with the French? Two discoveries I made this week was that the waitstaff and salespeople in restaurants and stores were much friendlier, and, to top it off, the prices for both were more reasonable! Horray for the 7 euro plate of food, WHY don't you exist in French restaurants?!
--It's a small, small world when you study abroad. Here's a recap on the people I met this week, just out and about in Italy: a girl from JMU (where my momma went to school!) studying in London, 2 UK guys teaching in Nice, a Midwestern guy also vacationing avec parentals, about 15 people with connections to Ali, and a Hungarian/Canadian girl finishing grad studies in Aix ! I love meeting other people who are in the same boat, it's cool to hear what everyone's doing as we 20-somethings take over Europe!
travel without the 'agent
Other thank my 36 hour trip to Paris, this was my first week-long vacation I had planned sans parental units. It was a big step to say that my girlfriends and I were able to successfully organize all the necessary details to have smooth sailing in Italy. With few hiccups and many smiles along the way, I think it's fair to say that we did a darn good job planning "Italia 2010."
To me, vacations and traveling are most profitable when you go to see the world, appreciate the culture and everyday things of another place, and when you don't forget to take care of yourself. Sleep, proper nutrition, happiness, and safety & security are the necessary components on any trip.
Traveling takes a lot of courage. You put yourself in new environments, leaving whatever comfort zone bubble to which you belong. If you're not careful, you can easily lose your balance from these 4 key categories, and that can really hamper a potentially successful trip. I'm proud of my friends and I: we managed to plan a vacation almost completely on our own, including transportation, hotels, meals, and daily activities.
It's hard to say exactly what is most beneficial about being abroad, but I'd argue that learning about yourself, in whatever many ways we each do as we journey along in a foreign space, is most beneficial. Arguably, the more you expose yourself to, whether that be different lifestyles or different cities, the more room you give yourself to grow.
Before going abroad, I expected the fall break to be a time where I'd see a dozen cities in 10 days. I know people doing that, or at least attempting to through many weekend trips and quick stops in major European cities. To me, having had the time to relax, live the Italian culture for a couple of days, and learn to take responsibility for my own well-being in a different foreign country, was a really great thing. I feel much more accomplished about myself, on a personal, you-can-do-it-girl!, sense than I had ever expected to feel after a week of "vacation from vacation," as Ali often says. Turns out our fall break was as educational as the hours I put in week in and week out. (That's not to say we don't learn from Jean Michel and his warp-speed lectures!)
Do I sound completely vain right now? I'm sorry. But if study abroad is supposed to be an experience, I can tell you that this is one of the most valuable parts of it.
To me, vacations and traveling are most profitable when you go to see the world, appreciate the culture and everyday things of another place, and when you don't forget to take care of yourself. Sleep, proper nutrition, happiness, and safety & security are the necessary components on any trip.
Traveling takes a lot of courage. You put yourself in new environments, leaving whatever comfort zone bubble to which you belong. If you're not careful, you can easily lose your balance from these 4 key categories, and that can really hamper a potentially successful trip. I'm proud of my friends and I: we managed to plan a vacation almost completely on our own, including transportation, hotels, meals, and daily activities.
It's hard to say exactly what is most beneficial about being abroad, but I'd argue that learning about yourself, in whatever many ways we each do as we journey along in a foreign space, is most beneficial. Arguably, the more you expose yourself to, whether that be different lifestyles or different cities, the more room you give yourself to grow.
Before going abroad, I expected the fall break to be a time where I'd see a dozen cities in 10 days. I know people doing that, or at least attempting to through many weekend trips and quick stops in major European cities. To me, having had the time to relax, live the Italian culture for a couple of days, and learn to take responsibility for my own well-being in a different foreign country, was a really great thing. I feel much more accomplished about myself, on a personal, you-can-do-it-girl!, sense than I had ever expected to feel after a week of "vacation from vacation," as Ali often says. Turns out our fall break was as educational as the hours I put in week in and week out. (That's not to say we don't learn from Jean Michel and his warp-speed lectures!)
Do I sound completely vain right now? I'm sorry. But if study abroad is supposed to be an experience, I can tell you that this is one of the most valuable parts of it.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
inspiration à la ITALIENNE!!
HI!
I am back from ITALIA! I had an absolute ball & can't wait to share. Be prepared for MANY blog posts to follow. Until I write sometime tomorrow, I will be doing three things: sleeping, running, and most importantly, finishing "The Girl Who Played With Fire." There's under 75 pages left in this 724 (exact page count, of course) page FANTASTIC novel and I can't WAIT to see how it ends.
Talk to you soon!!
xoxoxox, c
I am back from ITALIA! I had an absolute ball & can't wait to share. Be prepared for MANY blog posts to follow. Until I write sometime tomorrow, I will be doing three things: sleeping, running, and most importantly, finishing "The Girl Who Played With Fire." There's under 75 pages left in this 724 (exact page count, of course) page FANTASTIC novel and I can't WAIT to see how it ends.
Talk to you soon!!
xoxoxox, c
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
song lyric of the day
"Let's go shopping, maybe then we'll go to a café"
–Estelle w/ Kanye West, from "American Boy"
Props to her for defining my life in Aix:)
Also have been listening to a lot of Regina Spektor, Eagles, Pretty Lights, Country, and some Francophone pop; hit me up with anything new I should be listening to, I'm always looking for more great music!
–Estelle w/ Kanye West, from "American Boy"
Props to her for defining my life in Aix:)
Also have been listening to a lot of Regina Spektor, Eagles, Pretty Lights, Country, and some Francophone pop; hit me up with anything new I should be listening to, I'm always looking for more great music!
Ça veut dire quoi?
I could probably write a whole post of all the funny things that have happened in my life. "Ça veut dire quoi?" (what does that mean?) was the only latest funny French fumble we ran into over the weekend. Let's just say that old French men aren't up on their Lil' Jon lyrics (circa 2003 aka 8th grade) so this "mec's" furrowed brow at my friend's rapping was a simply classic moment we won't be forgetting soon. Also, anytime a sentence finishes with 'quoi,' i secretly laugh in my head. It just sounds funny! Another expression which Americans always know is 'je ne sais quoi,' which was used in some commercial back in the day & that Billy/my parents love to quote when we were little. Aw, memories!
Alix and my host mom were working together to go over her homework tonight as I got home. This girl is literally the funniest thing ever. While to a stranger it may seem like she's completely crazy and, frankly, very ungrateful to her mom helping her with homework, her random bursts of energy, to put it nicely, are just a part of her personality. And it's a good thing we all know it; it would be kind of ridiculous to believe that she actually is mad over one of the political points on her 'cahier' as she spits the correct answer back to her momma. Elizabeth is very patient & knows when to just roll her eyes because we both know how funny the girl is!
Wait, have I mentioned food yet? Oh, right, better get to that. I cracked this week. Don't worry, as Jamie says, it's a good food obsession I have. Have you guessed it yet, Liza? Yes, I got myself some Special K after nearly 2 months without it. WOW. How did I make it this long? It was soo delicious to have milk, SK (which is much more wheat-y here, different, but equally good), and yogurt (Liza, you guessed it-plain Activia, woo!) for lunch the past couple days, just to settle my craving. Otherwise, the French diet is definitely not treating me poorly–not that you would be worried. More food pictures to come later, but let's just say that I've had lots of salad, zucchini & courgettes for dinner at home, un crêpe au sucre, The Miami bagel, and lots of honey and lots of tea in the last couple days.
By the end of next week, I'll have been in Paris, Milan, Florence, and not to mention sunny Aix-en-Provence, wow. I am excited for our travels and to see some more Italian cities, but I'm even more excited to see my POPS! Let's get Firenze, people. Life is good.
xoxo, c
Alix and my host mom were working together to go over her homework tonight as I got home. This girl is literally the funniest thing ever. While to a stranger it may seem like she's completely crazy and, frankly, very ungrateful to her mom helping her with homework, her random bursts of energy, to put it nicely, are just a part of her personality. And it's a good thing we all know it; it would be kind of ridiculous to believe that she actually is mad over one of the political points on her 'cahier' as she spits the correct answer back to her momma. Elizabeth is very patient & knows when to just roll her eyes because we both know how funny the girl is!
Wait, have I mentioned food yet? Oh, right, better get to that. I cracked this week. Don't worry, as Jamie says, it's a good food obsession I have. Have you guessed it yet, Liza? Yes, I got myself some Special K after nearly 2 months without it. WOW. How did I make it this long? It was soo delicious to have milk, SK (which is much more wheat-y here, different, but equally good), and yogurt (Liza, you guessed it-plain Activia, woo!) for lunch the past couple days, just to settle my craving. Otherwise, the French diet is definitely not treating me poorly–not that you would be worried. More food pictures to come later, but let's just say that I've had lots of salad, zucchini & courgettes for dinner at home, un crêpe au sucre, The Miami bagel, and lots of honey and lots of tea in the last couple days.
By the end of next week, I'll have been in Paris, Milan, Florence, and not to mention sunny Aix-en-Provence, wow. I am excited for our travels and to see some more Italian cities, but I'm even more excited to see my POPS! Let's get Firenze, people. Life is good.
xoxo, c
Monday, October 18, 2010
PARIS
PARIS! It was great! I loved it (again!) This time, I was there for an even shorter time than when I went with my lovely family & Nana in 2007, all because of the French greves, aka unnecessary strikes that clog up the whole world. Because it's Paris, I don't see it necessary to go on to complain, so just check out the photos to see how BEAUTIFUL it was there this Saturday!
First meal in Paris: Croque Madame! I've been searching for one for a while, so when I saw it on the café menu, I had to get it!
Notre Dame, we approached from the back, but I think it was prettier that way!
Locks along 'le pont' leading us to Notre Dame.
Laura & I in front of Notre Dame.
Le Louvre! J'avais hâte de le voir! (=I was excited to see it...I love the word 'hâte' en français!)
MUSEE D'ORSAY!!! This is literally MY favorite icon of Paris. I took maybe 10 ('interdit', oops) pictures of it. I was awestruck 3 years ago seeing the former train station, but this time was equally as special. I did not get to see my favorite Renoir painting as that section of D'Orsay was under construction, but luckily I found a little notebook with "Les Deux Filles Au Piano" on the cover!
Place Vendome, I believe...This picture may look boring at first, but just check out the sky. We got so lucky Saturday because it was originally supposed to rain, but surprisingly it was not that cold & it all just made for great pictures!
Laura, Ali, & I avec La Tour Eiffel, what's not to love?
Shopping girls do as shopping girls do. Don't worry though, we only strolled down, just stopping to get a little afternoon sweet at un boulangerie, which is always necessary. We continued walking until...
L'Arche de Triomphe! With the afternoon sun flowing in, it made for beautiful pictures of the iconic & historic landmark.
Paris is one of those cool places to go where you will enjoy yourself (probably) no matter what you do, even if you've seen it already, because everything is so impressive. But no matter what, there's always something that's going to want to bring you back. What would I like to go back for? Well, first of all, I wish, wish, wish I was able to see my friend from high school, Maggie, who was in the same museum as me Sunday morning just before my friends & I had to peel off to come back to Aix.
I'd also love to spend an afternoon in Montmartre again, without a schedule, because that area of Paris really mystifies me. We went to a delicious cheese-fondue dinner Saturday night up there, but it wasn't enough! It was delicious, though (duh). I also really would love to explore the Left Bank, as sometimes I wish to be a hipster and/or think of myself as artsy, and seeing or knowing the Left Bank is definitely a notch on the artsy-street-cred scale. I'll get there someday.
I'm also itchy to see modest Paris boutiques, because anything even near Champs-Elysées is out of my range in price & in extravagance-I love my clothes, but I'll say no to Louis V any day of the week.
There also is a place that was listed in my guide book (under the family fun section, please do go ahead & laugh at me!) called "Chicago Pie Factory" or something like that. Chicago in Paris...I'm in!
Paris 2010 was a succes, and I can't wait to continue seeing Europe this fall! :)
Also, please check out my other 3 blog posts I just posted, they were written before but I finished them up tonight!
Bisous,
c
xoxoxo
First meal in Paris: Croque Madame! I've been searching for one for a while, so when I saw it on the café menu, I had to get it!
Notre Dame, we approached from the back, but I think it was prettier that way!
Locks along 'le pont' leading us to Notre Dame.
Laura & I in front of Notre Dame.
Le Louvre! J'avais hâte de le voir! (=I was excited to see it...I love the word 'hâte' en français!)
MUSEE D'ORSAY!!! This is literally MY favorite icon of Paris. I took maybe 10 ('interdit', oops) pictures of it. I was awestruck 3 years ago seeing the former train station, but this time was equally as special. I did not get to see my favorite Renoir painting as that section of D'Orsay was under construction, but luckily I found a little notebook with "Les Deux Filles Au Piano" on the cover!
Place Vendome, I believe...This picture may look boring at first, but just check out the sky. We got so lucky Saturday because it was originally supposed to rain, but surprisingly it was not that cold & it all just made for great pictures!
Laura, Ali, & I avec La Tour Eiffel, what's not to love?
Shopping girls do as shopping girls do. Don't worry though, we only strolled down, just stopping to get a little afternoon sweet at un boulangerie, which is always necessary. We continued walking until...
L'Arche de Triomphe! With the afternoon sun flowing in, it made for beautiful pictures of the iconic & historic landmark.
Paris is one of those cool places to go where you will enjoy yourself (probably) no matter what you do, even if you've seen it already, because everything is so impressive. But no matter what, there's always something that's going to want to bring you back. What would I like to go back for? Well, first of all, I wish, wish, wish I was able to see my friend from high school, Maggie, who was in the same museum as me Sunday morning just before my friends & I had to peel off to come back to Aix.
I'd also love to spend an afternoon in Montmartre again, without a schedule, because that area of Paris really mystifies me. We went to a delicious cheese-fondue dinner Saturday night up there, but it wasn't enough! It was delicious, though (duh). I also really would love to explore the Left Bank, as sometimes I wish to be a hipster and/or think of myself as artsy, and seeing or knowing the Left Bank is definitely a notch on the artsy-street-cred scale. I'll get there someday.
I'm also itchy to see modest Paris boutiques, because anything even near Champs-Elysées is out of my range in price & in extravagance-I love my clothes, but I'll say no to Louis V any day of the week.
There also is a place that was listed in my guide book (under the family fun section, please do go ahead & laugh at me!) called "Chicago Pie Factory" or something like that. Chicago in Paris...I'm in!
Paris 2010 was a succes, and I can't wait to continue seeing Europe this fall! :)
Also, please check out my other 3 blog posts I just posted, they were written before but I finished them up tonight!
Bisous,
c
xoxoxo
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