Paris. Week 1. More of a tourist than an etudiante.

I’m a little hesitant to be managing a blog since, being somewhat of a perfectionist, I will probably spend way more time on each entry than necessary knowing that at least someONE will be reading it. But alas, I have given in to the blog-pressure and here we are (we being my blog and me). Je veux écrire en français parce qu’il fait 3 jours que j’ai parlé anglais, but I won’t, because that would be cruel. So, in English, here’s a little taste of week 1 in Paris…

(Well first I should mention that the flight over was great. I lucked out and got on business class with premium service, a steady flow of food, a chair that gives massages and turns into a bed, and an insightful neighbor who, for better or for worse, loved extensive conversation. I should also mention that flying business was truly an aberration, I’m usually stuck in 47B.)

- The proud French. From stereotypes I knew that the French were proud people, but little did I know how true this was until seeing it firsthand. NOTHING here is American! Well, almost. In two days and walking around all of Paris I came across one Starbucks, one Claire’s and only ONE McDonalds (Paris almost deserves a metal for the latter). Most else is unique to France- architecture, shops, food, even dress.

- Fitting in. Day 1 and I’ve already mastered how to come off local. After having two people ask me for directions I’ve reflected on what it is I’ve been doing consciously or subconsciously to seem like I know where I am and what I’m doing. My conclusion- walk with purpose and a baguette.

- Tacky tourist (ironic that this is after “Fitting in”). Before I get sucked into school work I’ve designated this week to being a tourist and photographing all the Parisian hot spots. I’m pooped. And lonely? This never happens to me! I guess the city of love really is meant to be shared with others. Seen the Eiffel Tower, l’arc de triomphe, Notre Dame, Luxembourg garden, le cimetière du Père Lachaise (resting place of V.Hugo, J.Morrison, and O.Wilde to name a few), eaten a baguette (or 2…or 3), walked the Camps Elysée, blah blah blah. All that’s left is some rowdiness at the Moulin Rouge and a Mickey-hug at Disneyland.

- My [humble?] abode. Way back when I was choosing what school to attend the idea of Le Catho was overwhelming for several reasons. To be going to a seminary was one thing, but when I saw the ‘institution’ today it seemed more like a Catholic prison than anything, with dark cement walls and a tall surrounding gate. I’m expecting to be frisked upon entrance.

- My other abode. I’m so fortunate to not only be spending 8 months in Paris but to be spending it in a beautiful home with a beautiful couple. For anyone who is familiar with the geographical structure of Paris, I live in the 17^th arrondissement, down the street from Parc Monceau and a 15-minute walk from the triumphant arch. The 4-bedroom apartment is being shared with (in addition to the Vilgrains) 2 other students, one of whom is studying at the music conservatory for harp. Yes, that’s right, the sounds of her harp waft through the apartment more often than not.

- Food. 2 quick things about food. 1) I’ve learned that I’m no good at buying groceries. Because I’m on such a tight budget and have to buy my own food, I spent a good 2 hours at the Supermarché yesterday trying to figure out what cheap foods would provide me with the most nourishment. An all-around stressful experience at which I hope to improve. 2) French food is good.

I will end here before I have to add a Table of Contents.

Happy Epiphany to one and all! (well it was when I started this)