Things have been beyond crazy this past week. I have so much to tell, but hardly any time to write the story! So I apologize for the delay in posts. But this time, I have a legitimate reason. Basically, I am not with Karine's family anymore and I am finding another one. I will share the details later. Be patient! I hope to continue blogging soon!
P.S. To all who want to FaceTime me, I am sorry but I can't at the moment. My laptop can't hook up to the internet at Juliette's house so you are all just going to have to wait and put up with email. Sorry.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Rien Ne Sert De Courir, Il Faut Partir À Point
This morning, the girls had troubles waking up. I had to wake them up earlier because we had to take the bus, instead of either Karine or Bertrand driving them to school. It is funny how I can see myself in the girls, especially Sarah. I was always the one that my mom or dad had to wake up 20 different times. I could sleep through lights, music, and even a good shaking. Even though waking the girls up was difficult, we still got out the door, and to the bus stop with several minutes to spare.
I decided to start being more productive. Sitting around when I am home alone gives me way too much time to think about home and how I miss everything there. So I got ready, caught up on my blog, cleaned, studied, and put away a small stack of clean clothes. I decided it was best to leave earlier to pick up the girls. There was no way that I was going to miss that bus again just because I was five minutes early instead of six minutes. I was 20 minutes early. I didn't like having to stand and wait that long for the bus to arrive (it was a few minutes late today), and when I arrived at the school, I realized that Véronique was picking the girls up. She picks up Marion and Sarah every Tuesday. So instead of taking the bus back home, I got to ride in the car.
Since I had finished all my little tasks, I started to write today's post. After, I sat with my French family just to keep them company. Plus I was determined to show them I care about them and that I was very sorry for being late to get the girls the day before. I had to show them I was serious.
I decided to start being more productive. Sitting around when I am home alone gives me way too much time to think about home and how I miss everything there. So I got ready, caught up on my blog, cleaned, studied, and put away a small stack of clean clothes. I decided it was best to leave earlier to pick up the girls. There was no way that I was going to miss that bus again just because I was five minutes early instead of six minutes. I was 20 minutes early. I didn't like having to stand and wait that long for the bus to arrive (it was a few minutes late today), and when I arrived at the school, I realized that Véronique was picking the girls up. She picks up Marion and Sarah every Tuesday. So instead of taking the bus back home, I got to ride in the car.
Since I had finished all my little tasks, I started to write today's post. After, I sat with my French family just to keep them company. Plus I was determined to show them I care about them and that I was very sorry for being late to get the girls the day before. I had to show them I was serious.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Une Mauvaise Journée
This morning was just like any other normal school day. Woke up the girls, ate breakfast, went back upstairs to sleep for an hour, got ready for class, and then eventually went to class. A little bit after lunch, I started to feel sick. I am really getting tired of getting sick. Obviously it is something I am eating, but I am not positive on what my allergy is, or how to completely avoid it. I have narrowed the suspects down to goat products and strong tasting yogurts. I wish there was a way to find out the culprit with 100% surety!
So here is where the inspiration for the title came from. Une Mauvaise Journée means a poor day. I was walking to the bus stop to pick up the girls from school, and I saw my bus drive past the stop. The bus was six minutes early! I started to panic because the next bus was in 20 minutes and I would be 20 minutes late to get the girls! So I started speed walking and eventually ran. At one point, I thought I was taking a shortcut, but it just got me lost. Oh and I forgot to mention that it started raining. So I finally get to the school 15 minutes late to get the girls. And we missed our bus back so we had to walk home in the rain.
The girls didn't seem too flustered, but when I talked to Karine on the phone after the girls, she said they were about to cry. Okay I already felt terrible, and that just brought my mood down 10 notches. Obviously Karine was not happy, no one was, but all I could really say to her was I understand and I am sorry. She told me to stay with the girls and get them relaxed. I offered to make hot chocolate, get them a treat, but they said no to everything. So I unloaded the dishwasher and then told them time to do homework with Gypsia and some music. Well, I tried saying that. They looked confused, but eventually caught one. By the time homework was finished, I think the girls were in a better mood. I'm convinced they don't like me, especially Sarah, but hopefully I will be able to think of ways to win them over.
I felt very awkward when Karine got home, but eventually got over it. When dinner started, I wasn't that hungry, plus I felt sick, but I ate anyway. I thought that eating in silence was better than hiding in my room from conflict. Dinner was very good! And the mood wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be.
Karine drove by the bank to inquire about my debit card that we setup my second day in France. Yeah, it definitely should have arrived by now. Turns out, that they did put on order on the actual card yet. So hopefully I will get that in the mail soon. So now if I want money, I just have to go to my bank and give them my name and info and I can make my withdrawal.
As time went by, I kept feeling more sick and bloated. If this happens to anyone with an allergy, please let me know this is normal. I always thought allergies were hives and closed-up throats, but every time I bloat and throw up. Anyhow, I tried going to bed early, but instead I had to run to the bathroom. Although I hate throwing up, I always feel so much better after. So after swishing with water, mouthwash, and brushing my teeth again, I slept like a baby.
So here is where the inspiration for the title came from. Une Mauvaise Journée means a poor day. I was walking to the bus stop to pick up the girls from school, and I saw my bus drive past the stop. The bus was six minutes early! I started to panic because the next bus was in 20 minutes and I would be 20 minutes late to get the girls! So I started speed walking and eventually ran. At one point, I thought I was taking a shortcut, but it just got me lost. Oh and I forgot to mention that it started raining. So I finally get to the school 15 minutes late to get the girls. And we missed our bus back so we had to walk home in the rain.
The girls didn't seem too flustered, but when I talked to Karine on the phone after the girls, she said they were about to cry. Okay I already felt terrible, and that just brought my mood down 10 notches. Obviously Karine was not happy, no one was, but all I could really say to her was I understand and I am sorry. She told me to stay with the girls and get them relaxed. I offered to make hot chocolate, get them a treat, but they said no to everything. So I unloaded the dishwasher and then told them time to do homework with Gypsia and some music. Well, I tried saying that. They looked confused, but eventually caught one. By the time homework was finished, I think the girls were in a better mood. I'm convinced they don't like me, especially Sarah, but hopefully I will be able to think of ways to win them over.
I felt very awkward when Karine got home, but eventually got over it. When dinner started, I wasn't that hungry, plus I felt sick, but I ate anyway. I thought that eating in silence was better than hiding in my room from conflict. Dinner was very good! And the mood wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be.
Karine drove by the bank to inquire about my debit card that we setup my second day in France. Yeah, it definitely should have arrived by now. Turns out, that they did put on order on the actual card yet. So hopefully I will get that in the mail soon. So now if I want money, I just have to go to my bank and give them my name and info and I can make my withdrawal.
As time went by, I kept feeling more sick and bloated. If this happens to anyone with an allergy, please let me know this is normal. I always thought allergies were hives and closed-up throats, but every time I bloat and throw up. Anyhow, I tried going to bed early, but instead I had to run to the bathroom. Although I hate throwing up, I always feel so much better after. So after swishing with water, mouthwash, and brushing my teeth again, I slept like a baby.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Typical Sunday
First of all, I feel like my English is getting worse and worse here. Each time I sit down to write a new post for my blog, I notice that writing gets harder. Each time I have to think harder about how to say things right and how it is supposed to sound. So I am apologizing again for any grammatical errors you have seen or will see. Okay.
This morning Brooke and I woke up on time, and it wasn't raining outside! We took the metro to the main bus stop (last week we didn't realize you could use the same ticket for buses and the metro, so we ran to the bus in the rain). Even though it wasn't raining, it was very chilly. For all you people in Arizona, or people who have lived there, it felt like an Arizonan cold winter morning. The sun is coming up, but the air feels a little icy. In any case, to me, it felt like a winter morning, and it still summer... I know I say this all the time, but I am going to turn into an ice cube in the winter if I am freezing in the summer.
Just like last week, someone from the ward (this week it happened to be Bernadette, she has been a member in this ward for the longest). Once again, church was good. This week Brooke, Jennifer, and I went to class with one of the missionaries and a visitor. So I got to hear a lesson in English! But we went back to French for sacrament meeting. I might've fallen asleep a couple times...
The missionaries, Brooke and I took the bus and the metro together since we were all heading in the same direction. I wore my tallest heels to church (bad idea, I am already tall compared to most French people, so I was a giant, but I love my heels so I wore them anyway), but brought sandals to change into for the walk to and from church. There is no way that I could walk on cobblestone in five-inch spike heels.
When we got home, we planned to change, rest and then head out to see the parliament building because it was having a free tour. Unfortunately, I was tired and I am capable of sleeping for hours, so my nap that I intended to be 45 minutes turned into a few hours. I have given Brooke permission to wake me up from naps, especially if we are planning on going somewhere, but she is too nice. So we missed out on the parliament building. I felt really bad. A) Because I really wanted to go. B) Brooke really wanted to go! Darn my ability to sleep...
This morning Brooke and I woke up on time, and it wasn't raining outside! We took the metro to the main bus stop (last week we didn't realize you could use the same ticket for buses and the metro, so we ran to the bus in the rain). Even though it wasn't raining, it was very chilly. For all you people in Arizona, or people who have lived there, it felt like an Arizonan cold winter morning. The sun is coming up, but the air feels a little icy. In any case, to me, it felt like a winter morning, and it still summer... I know I say this all the time, but I am going to turn into an ice cube in the winter if I am freezing in the summer.
Just like last week, someone from the ward (this week it happened to be Bernadette, she has been a member in this ward for the longest). Once again, church was good. This week Brooke, Jennifer, and I went to class with one of the missionaries and a visitor. So I got to hear a lesson in English! But we went back to French for sacrament meeting. I might've fallen asleep a couple times...
The missionaries, Brooke and I took the bus and the metro together since we were all heading in the same direction. I wore my tallest heels to church (bad idea, I am already tall compared to most French people, so I was a giant, but I love my heels so I wore them anyway), but brought sandals to change into for the walk to and from church. There is no way that I could walk on cobblestone in five-inch spike heels.
When we got home, we planned to change, rest and then head out to see the parliament building because it was having a free tour. Unfortunately, I was tired and I am capable of sleeping for hours, so my nap that I intended to be 45 minutes turned into a few hours. I have given Brooke permission to wake me up from naps, especially if we are planning on going somewhere, but she is too nice. So we missed out on the parliament building. I felt really bad. A) Because I really wanted to go. B) Brooke really wanted to go! Darn my ability to sleep...
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Back To The 60's
Saturday I slept in. Brooke stumbled upon a tutoring job teaching English to some French kids. Lucky girl. I know I could sure use some extra cash money... Anyway, so I slept in for a while and eventually got ready for the day. Brooke came back by the time I was finished, so we ate some lunch (cereal) and ventured out in the city of Rennes.
First we went to this ginormous flea market. There was so much junk. People sold old dish ware, clothes, shoes, movies, books, and the list goes on. I swear some people went to a junk yard and tried to sell rusty old school bikes and TVs. People even tried to sell creepy old dolls that had no hair, or the eyes were gone. I don't know who in their right mind would buy that junk. Out of all the stands, Brooke and I only bought some nail polish. I forgot to bring mine from Arizona, and my nail polish was about gone. Besides, each nail polish was one euro.
Today, we also played with the kids. I was so happy that Marie-Faustine was playing with me! She joined Aymeric and Guillaume and they all started jumping, tackling, trying to tickle me. I still hate being tickled. Marie-Faustine doesn't know English and she is 3 years old. She is adorable. Every time we say something to her in English, she will laugh because she doesn't understand. After the jump-on-Annie session, Brooke, Maelle-Marie, Aymeric, Guillaume, and I went to play Don't Eat Pete. I haven't played that game since preschool!
After that, we planned to go to the museum. Unfortunately, Brooke and I left were the museum was, to a place where we thought the museum was located. We ended up between the library and the movie theater. Brooke and I decided to see a movie instead. We intended to see La Guerre Des Boutons, which we did see, but it was different. I think the one we wanted to see was a part II. Anyway, the movie looked cute, but we were totally lost with what was going on. Later we were told that it was hard for people that were fluent in French to understand. Oh, well good thing we tried watching it! It's okay, I really love the theater chairs.
After the movie we went to a little restaurant called Back to the 60's. It is supposed to be like an American style diner in the 60's. Brooke and I really wanted a burger. Back to the 60's is more expensive than the other restaurants in the area, but they sold root beer and cheeseburgers so we needed no more persuasion. To be honest, we were both a little disappointed. The missionaries said it was delicious, so I was expecting a burger as good as my brother Robert can make. Our first mistake was ordering medium-well burgers. We forgot that here in France you really have to tell them to cook it or else it will come back cold. Anyone who is coming to France, remember that! So I'm sure the burgers would have been better with a warm burger, and if I got a special burger instead of just cheese and lettuce. I must say, it was very strange to eat a burger with a fork and knife. The whole time I was tempted to just pick it up with my hands. Same with the french fries (which were delicious by the way). Next time, I will be sure to ask for a well-done, almost black burger.
First we went to this ginormous flea market. There was so much junk. People sold old dish ware, clothes, shoes, movies, books, and the list goes on. I swear some people went to a junk yard and tried to sell rusty old school bikes and TVs. People even tried to sell creepy old dolls that had no hair, or the eyes were gone. I don't know who in their right mind would buy that junk. Out of all the stands, Brooke and I only bought some nail polish. I forgot to bring mine from Arizona, and my nail polish was about gone. Besides, each nail polish was one euro.
Today, we also played with the kids. I was so happy that Marie-Faustine was playing with me! She joined Aymeric and Guillaume and they all started jumping, tackling, trying to tickle me. I still hate being tickled. Marie-Faustine doesn't know English and she is 3 years old. She is adorable. Every time we say something to her in English, she will laugh because she doesn't understand. After the jump-on-Annie session, Brooke, Maelle-Marie, Aymeric, Guillaume, and I went to play Don't Eat Pete. I haven't played that game since preschool!
After that, we planned to go to the museum. Unfortunately, Brooke and I left were the museum was, to a place where we thought the museum was located. We ended up between the library and the movie theater. Brooke and I decided to see a movie instead. We intended to see La Guerre Des Boutons, which we did see, but it was different. I think the one we wanted to see was a part II. Anyway, the movie looked cute, but we were totally lost with what was going on. Later we were told that it was hard for people that were fluent in French to understand. Oh, well good thing we tried watching it! It's okay, I really love the theater chairs.
After the movie we went to a little restaurant called Back to the 60's. It is supposed to be like an American style diner in the 60's. Brooke and I really wanted a burger. Back to the 60's is more expensive than the other restaurants in the area, but they sold root beer and cheeseburgers so we needed no more persuasion. To be honest, we were both a little disappointed. The missionaries said it was delicious, so I was expecting a burger as good as my brother Robert can make. Our first mistake was ordering medium-well burgers. We forgot that here in France you really have to tell them to cook it or else it will come back cold. Anyone who is coming to France, remember that! So I'm sure the burgers would have been better with a warm burger, and if I got a special burger instead of just cheese and lettuce. I must say, it was very strange to eat a burger with a fork and knife. The whole time I was tempted to just pick it up with my hands. Same with the french fries (which were delicious by the way). Next time, I will be sure to ask for a well-done, almost black burger.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Sea Breeze
I don't have a post for Thursday because it was pretty much the same story as Wednesday. It took a very long time to get the girls to do their homework. But eventually they did it. I was going to go to the beach, but I just sat outside instead.
Friday after breakfast, I went back to sleep for a while because my class was starting at 14h (2:00) instead of 11h (11:00). We use military time here, I'm still trying to get used to it. Around 10h, I got up, got ready, and headed for the train station. Instead of just buying a one-way ticket like I have the past two times, I got a round trip. That way I didn't have to remember about my ticket on Saturday, and have to run to the SNCF store at the last minute.
I took the bus to my class because if I went home first, I would be late. When I got off the bus at the Châteaubriand stop, I could smell the salty ocean in the breeze. So instead of sitting outside of my class for 45 minutes, I sat by the sea. It is amazing how nature can boost your mood. The way the waves sound, the salty smelling breeze, even the seagulls squawking. Nevertheless, the ocean did something to lift my spirit. Plus, I finished my homework that was due on Monday.
Later Friday night, Brooke and I went to our JA activity. Remember JA = YA (young adult). We took the metro to the bus station, and then we took the bus as close to the church as we could, and had to walk the last distance for about 10 minutes. It was dark, and we kept talking about scary things... We just about peed our pants in fright when a house close to the sidewalk started to close its shutters. I really wish we could see a playback of these moments. I'm sure it would be hilarious to see me jump and cling onto Brooke.
Anyway, we made it to our activity late. They were playing pictionary. They had to pick something out of a hat to draw on a chalkboard, and the drawer was also given a rule they had to do while drawing. Some people had to run around the chalkboard, jump, or balance pool balls on a tray while drawing. Then the drawer's team had to guess what was being draw. I lucked out on not going, but Brooke didn't. Brooke had to run around the chalkboard while drawing. She seriously only drew a guy stick figure. It was supposed to be Leonardo DiCaprio. I'm not sure how we were supposed to guess that...
Friday after breakfast, I went back to sleep for a while because my class was starting at 14h (2:00) instead of 11h (11:00). We use military time here, I'm still trying to get used to it. Around 10h, I got up, got ready, and headed for the train station. Instead of just buying a one-way ticket like I have the past two times, I got a round trip. That way I didn't have to remember about my ticket on Saturday, and have to run to the SNCF store at the last minute.
I took the bus to my class because if I went home first, I would be late. When I got off the bus at the Châteaubriand stop, I could smell the salty ocean in the breeze. So instead of sitting outside of my class for 45 minutes, I sat by the sea. It is amazing how nature can boost your mood. The way the waves sound, the salty smelling breeze, even the seagulls squawking. Nevertheless, the ocean did something to lift my spirit. Plus, I finished my homework that was due on Monday.
Anyway, we made it to our activity late. They were playing pictionary. They had to pick something out of a hat to draw on a chalkboard, and the drawer was also given a rule they had to do while drawing. Some people had to run around the chalkboard, jump, or balance pool balls on a tray while drawing. Then the drawer's team had to guess what was being draw. I lucked out on not going, but Brooke didn't. Brooke had to run around the chalkboard while drawing. She seriously only drew a guy stick figure. It was supposed to be Leonardo DiCaprio. I'm not sure how we were supposed to guess that...
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Nothing Exciting
Today was a bad day for me, and a day off, so I have almost nothing to talk about. I woke up feeling super homesick so it was really hard to get out of bed. I skipped breakfast. Sat in bed till 1 in the afternoon. It was a beautiful day today, so I wish I went to the beach, but I just couldn't get motivated to do anything. I started reading Pride and Prejudice, but couldn't concentrate on it anymore. Then I watched Rio, but I got sick of watching it. Really, I just wanted to listen to the songs. When it was over, I fell asleep for a little bit. I felt bad that I was sitting in my room all day, so I got up and started cleaning my room. Véronique was here today so she took the girls to their lessons and such. I didn't really see anyone until dinnertime. I hung out for a bit, then went back upstairs to do my homework and organize my room some more. I found out my church is having a youth activity on Friday night, so I am hoping that I will be able to make it to Rennes on Friday. Sorry for the boring post! I hope I have better, more exciting news for you all tomorrow.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Locked Out
While I was getting ready this morning, I noticed two things. 1) I couldn't find my shampoo or body wash anywhere. 2) I was also missing deodorant. My guess is that one of the girls hid them. Hopefully just for fun, but who knows, it could also be because they were mad at me... Anyway so because I was searching through the entire house for some deodorant (which I couldn't find so I went without), I missed the 10:24 and the 10:34 buses to my class. There is a 10:44 bus, but I never took it because I was afraid it would make me just a little late to class. But today, I had no choice. So I get off the bus, and start walking the small distance to the class and realize I passed it. It was already a little past 11:00, but I didn't want to run. I was really trying not to sweat because I didn't have deodorant and I didn't want to smell bad! Luckily when I got to class, my classmates were still waiting outside the door.
On my way home, I stopped by the supermarket to buy more shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, and deodorant. Deodorant here is weird. They don't have the normal stick stuff, its all spray or liquid roller, which I don't like. But I just had to settle.
When I got home, I called Elo to see if the little soirée was still taking place tonight. She was still waiting on news from another girl, but she said if other people can't come, we should just go to dinner. Later she called to say that the soirée was on! I was so excited to get to know my classmates better, especially since they all know English. It is funny how when I meet people who know English, I automatically stick to them like glue. I think it has something to do with me being able to communicate with them. Anyway so I planned to take the bus as close to her house as I could and walk the rest of the way. To get home, I already had a ride figured out. I told Elo that my bus was at 7:12 and she said she would look out for me.
First problem I ran into, I looked at 17:12 not 19:12. So the next bus was really at 19:31. I had to wait in the wind and cold for quite some time. Second problem, I wasn't exactly positive of where Elo's house was. I kinda just walked in a general direction that I remember from google maps. I remember her telling me that she lived in an apartment that was new, and there was construction outside that you could see from her balcony. So I had clues on where she lived, and I could definitely see new buildings (it is very easy to tell which buildings are new and 'modern' and which ones are old), I just didn't know exactly how to get to them. Finally I got to a street that led to new houses and walked down that road. And when I was walking by the apartments looking for Elo, she found me first! She was so happy I found her apartment because she was so worried! I didn't have a phone she could call to find me. But I made it.
It was nice being independent from my family. I really like my family and enjoy being around them, but it annoys me how dependent on them I am. So this little soirée was very nice. There were only four of us; Oswaldo, Elo, Thamine, and I. We spent the time talking about each other. It was funny because they are all 28 and I'm 18. They all have a significant other, wife, husband, boyfriend, that are French, but here I am single and not so experienced in the relationship department. So I just listened. At some moments I thought how neat it was to be hanging out with people of other cultures. We had an Estonian, Mexican, Brazilian, and an American (me). Obviously, I didn't feel like the exotic addition to the party. I don't believe there is anything exotic about being American.
Anyway, we talked for a long time about the French language, grammar, the frustrations of not being able to speak, and the culture. I was glad to know that I wasn't the only one that is still not sure on how the cheek kissing works. All I know is that it takes a long time to say hello and goodbye because you have to go to everyone and give two kisses. It will probably take a while for me to get used to people getting close to my face. Although I like the cheek kissing, it still makes me feel a little uneasy. I believe that I will miss good 'ole hugs. So if any of you come to visit, give me a hug!
Thamine and her husband gave me a ride home, which I was thankful for. I had my keys and everything to be able to get inside the house, but the door wouldn't open. The door has three locks. One for the handle, and two dead bolt sort of things. My key doesn't work for the dead bolts. I didn't want to ring the doorbell because I didn't know who was asleep, and I couldn't go to a window to find someone because all the shutters were down. So using one of my keychains items (a scoubidou that my friend Leah made me), I pushed open a little opening on the door that is used as a peephole. I could see a light was on in the living room; someone had to be awake. So I stood outside the house for 45 minutes knocking and talking in the little people hole door. Finally, Sarah had walked downstairs (she must have been asleep and I woke her... oops, but thank goodness) and caught Bertrand's attention. I finally got inside, and went straight to bed.
On my way home, I stopped by the supermarket to buy more shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, and deodorant. Deodorant here is weird. They don't have the normal stick stuff, its all spray or liquid roller, which I don't like. But I just had to settle.
When I got home, I called Elo to see if the little soirée was still taking place tonight. She was still waiting on news from another girl, but she said if other people can't come, we should just go to dinner. Later she called to say that the soirée was on! I was so excited to get to know my classmates better, especially since they all know English. It is funny how when I meet people who know English, I automatically stick to them like glue. I think it has something to do with me being able to communicate with them. Anyway so I planned to take the bus as close to her house as I could and walk the rest of the way. To get home, I already had a ride figured out. I told Elo that my bus was at 7:12 and she said she would look out for me.
First problem I ran into, I looked at 17:12 not 19:12. So the next bus was really at 19:31. I had to wait in the wind and cold for quite some time. Second problem, I wasn't exactly positive of where Elo's house was. I kinda just walked in a general direction that I remember from google maps. I remember her telling me that she lived in an apartment that was new, and there was construction outside that you could see from her balcony. So I had clues on where she lived, and I could definitely see new buildings (it is very easy to tell which buildings are new and 'modern' and which ones are old), I just didn't know exactly how to get to them. Finally I got to a street that led to new houses and walked down that road. And when I was walking by the apartments looking for Elo, she found me first! She was so happy I found her apartment because she was so worried! I didn't have a phone she could call to find me. But I made it.
It was nice being independent from my family. I really like my family and enjoy being around them, but it annoys me how dependent on them I am. So this little soirée was very nice. There were only four of us; Oswaldo, Elo, Thamine, and I. We spent the time talking about each other. It was funny because they are all 28 and I'm 18. They all have a significant other, wife, husband, boyfriend, that are French, but here I am single and not so experienced in the relationship department. So I just listened. At some moments I thought how neat it was to be hanging out with people of other cultures. We had an Estonian, Mexican, Brazilian, and an American (me). Obviously, I didn't feel like the exotic addition to the party. I don't believe there is anything exotic about being American.
Anyway, we talked for a long time about the French language, grammar, the frustrations of not being able to speak, and the culture. I was glad to know that I wasn't the only one that is still not sure on how the cheek kissing works. All I know is that it takes a long time to say hello and goodbye because you have to go to everyone and give two kisses. It will probably take a while for me to get used to people getting close to my face. Although I like the cheek kissing, it still makes me feel a little uneasy. I believe that I will miss good 'ole hugs. So if any of you come to visit, give me a hug!
Thamine and her husband gave me a ride home, which I was thankful for. I had my keys and everything to be able to get inside the house, but the door wouldn't open. The door has three locks. One for the handle, and two dead bolt sort of things. My key doesn't work for the dead bolts. I didn't want to ring the doorbell because I didn't know who was asleep, and I couldn't go to a window to find someone because all the shutters were down. So using one of my keychains items (a scoubidou that my friend Leah made me), I pushed open a little opening on the door that is used as a peephole. I could see a light was on in the living room; someone had to be awake. So I stood outside the house for 45 minutes knocking and talking in the little people hole door. Finally, Sarah had walked downstairs (she must have been asleep and I woke her... oops, but thank goodness) and caught Bertrand's attention. I finally got inside, and went straight to bed.
Monday, September 12, 2011
I Have Friends!
Today is a very short post, because nothing super special happened today.
This morning I didn't even need to wake up the girls. Gypsia was mewing and the girls were so excited that they got up as soon as they heard her to play with her.
There was a new student in class today. His name is Oswaldo and he was born in Mexico, lived in New York for five years, and now lives in France. So now there are three girls, one boy, and me. Elo decided to throw a little party for us so we can get to know each other better. I look forward to going so I can get some friends in St Malo!
After I picked up the girls from school, they went straight to Gypsia. Trying to get the girls to do their homework, practice their music, and shower was extremely difficult. I sat with Marion while she did hers, which was nice. I'm sure I will learn some vocabulary while doing homework with Marion.
This morning I didn't even need to wake up the girls. Gypsia was mewing and the girls were so excited that they got up as soon as they heard her to play with her.
There was a new student in class today. His name is Oswaldo and he was born in Mexico, lived in New York for five years, and now lives in France. So now there are three girls, one boy, and me. Elo decided to throw a little party for us so we can get to know each other better. I look forward to going so I can get some friends in St Malo!
After I picked up the girls from school, they went straight to Gypsia. Trying to get the girls to do their homework, practice their music, and shower was extremely difficult. I sat with Marion while she did hers, which was nice. I'm sure I will learn some vocabulary while doing homework with Marion.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Gypsia
First of all, it is 9/11. It is so weird being in another country on such a day of remembrance. Normally, I would hear about it all day on the radio, television, and there would even be something about it in church. But here, no one ever mentioned. I only realized the significance of today when I wrote the date on a paper. I want to thank all those who are out serving our country and protecting our freedom. You are all strong, amazing people. Come home safely.
This morning, Brooke and I woke up late. Originally we planned to wake up earlier so we would have plenty of time to walk to the bus that took us to church. But because of our tardiness, we had to skip a lot of steps to getting ready for church, and walk fast to the bus. When we got outside, it was sprinkling and we didn't have time to get an umbrella. I am so happy I decided to bring sandals for church this week instead of heels (poor Brooke wore heeled boots) because we walked very fast over cobblestone and ran part of the way too. It was a good thing we decided to run because the bus was already at the stop when we got there. Brooke and I barely made it on! So after a 20 minute speed walk/run in the rain and a 10 minute bus ride, we still had to get off and walk to church. Lucky for us, some people from our ward pulled over and gave us a ride the rest of the way. We showed up to church quite damp. People told us that we should always have an umbrella handy because in Bretagne (Brittany) rain can come out of nowhere. Good to know...
Once again, I was lost in every class. The lessons were on chastity, but since I couldn't understand what they were saying, it was the only time that the chastity topic didn't seem awkward. Since it is the second Sunday this month, our church had a big lunch for all those who could stay. There were so many options I did not know where to start! I wanted to try everything on the tables, but I didn't have enough room on my plate, or in my stomach. Everything I put on my plate tasted delicious! My favorites were a type of pasta salad with cheese and meat, and some other type of mixture with tuna, corn, tomatoes, and something else. And when I went back for dessert, I had the same problem. So many choices, but not enough room for everything. Brooke and I were so happy to see that our cookies were eaten until the box was empty! And a pastry chef even commented on how good they were! Aw yeah! It was definitely a proud moment.
I have realized a sad thought. Going to church is going to be an expensive ordeal. I have to buy my train tickets to and from Rennes which would be 21 euros at the most for one weekend, and then I have to ride buses and a metro on Sunday to get to church which is around 3 euros. I could buy a bus pass so I don't have to pay Sunday, but that is around 100 euros. So all you people in America that live around the corner from a church, be grateful. Because I have to spend around 40% of my paycheck on travel just to get to church.
When I got back from Rennes, Karine told me they got a cat! I'm a dog person, but I don't mind cats. And when I got home I saw the cutest, tiny black kitten. The reason why they got a cat was because they found this poor little kitten in a random area all by itself mewing. They named her Gypsia and she is about three weeks old. She is stinking cute.
This morning, Brooke and I woke up late. Originally we planned to wake up earlier so we would have plenty of time to walk to the bus that took us to church. But because of our tardiness, we had to skip a lot of steps to getting ready for church, and walk fast to the bus. When we got outside, it was sprinkling and we didn't have time to get an umbrella. I am so happy I decided to bring sandals for church this week instead of heels (poor Brooke wore heeled boots) because we walked very fast over cobblestone and ran part of the way too. It was a good thing we decided to run because the bus was already at the stop when we got there. Brooke and I barely made it on! So after a 20 minute speed walk/run in the rain and a 10 minute bus ride, we still had to get off and walk to church. Lucky for us, some people from our ward pulled over and gave us a ride the rest of the way. We showed up to church quite damp. People told us that we should always have an umbrella handy because in Bretagne (Brittany) rain can come out of nowhere. Good to know...
Once again, I was lost in every class. The lessons were on chastity, but since I couldn't understand what they were saying, it was the only time that the chastity topic didn't seem awkward. Since it is the second Sunday this month, our church had a big lunch for all those who could stay. There were so many options I did not know where to start! I wanted to try everything on the tables, but I didn't have enough room on my plate, or in my stomach. Everything I put on my plate tasted delicious! My favorites were a type of pasta salad with cheese and meat, and some other type of mixture with tuna, corn, tomatoes, and something else. And when I went back for dessert, I had the same problem. So many choices, but not enough room for everything. Brooke and I were so happy to see that our cookies were eaten until the box was empty! And a pastry chef even commented on how good they were! Aw yeah! It was definitely a proud moment.
I have realized a sad thought. Going to church is going to be an expensive ordeal. I have to buy my train tickets to and from Rennes which would be 21 euros at the most for one weekend, and then I have to ride buses and a metro on Sunday to get to church which is around 3 euros. I could buy a bus pass so I don't have to pay Sunday, but that is around 100 euros. So all you people in America that live around the corner from a church, be grateful. Because I have to spend around 40% of my paycheck on travel just to get to church.
When I got back from Rennes, Karine told me they got a cat! I'm a dog person, but I don't mind cats. And when I got home I saw the cutest, tiny black kitten. The reason why they got a cat was because they found this poor little kitten in a random area all by itself mewing. They named her Gypsia and she is about three weeks old. She is stinking cute.
Sarah, Marion, and Gypsia
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Captain America
This morning, I almost missed my train to Rennes. I had stayed up too late the night before Skyping a friend and because of that, I had a really hard time getting up in the morning. I packed so fast, that I forgot some things, like my toothbrush. But it was okay! I made it to my train and arrived in Rennes an hour later.
Brooke and I went out to lunch and then went to find ingredients to make cookies. We decided to make a treat for our church's lunch party on Sunday. At first, we planned on making homemade oreos (if you haven't had them yet, you need to make them) but we couldn't find pre made frosting in a can. So instead of homemade oreos, we decided to make nutella cookies. It was very hard to find ingredients. We had no idea where to find baking soda or baking powder (if someone can tell me the difference between these two items, please let me know), but the Troadecs had baking powder (baking soda can be found at pharmacies in France).
When we finally got home with the ingredients we needed, we started making the cookies. It was so hard. I never knew that baking could ever be so complicated. If we had the measuring cups and teaspoons that we usually use, I'm sure it would've only took about 15 minutes tops to make the cookie dough. It took us forever to try and figure out the conversions from cups to grams or ounces. Also, some ingredients here are a bit stronger than in America. Like cocoa, for example. So the cookies were veryyy chocolatey.
After cooking, I crashed. I felt bad because I know Brooke wanted to go to a museum, but instead I pretty much passed out on the couch. Too late now. But we definitely plan on seeing some sick châteaus and that museum too.
Later that night, we went to see a movie. It took a while to walk there, but we still arrived for a movie very early (we were the first ones in our theatre). It was a good thing though. Brooke and I wanted to get this card (it's free) that allows us to get discounted tickets, but we had no idea where to find them, or where to buy our movie tickets... So we copied the people around us and bought them at little electronic booths. After we had bought our tickets for Captain America (plus one euro for the 3D glasses) we found out how to get the discount cards. Oh well. It felt like it was my first time in a theater. We had no idea where to go or where to buy things. We didn't know where the theaters were or how to find them. But we made it into the movie with snacks.
Before the movie started, a man tried asking Brooke something. We just laughed and said we don't speak French. Later we thought about that little incident. The guy probably thought we were very weird to see a movie in French when we didn't know French. I have no idea what they said in the movie, but I understood what was happening because I could see! Watching Captain America reminded me why I love super hero movies. The guys are always so hot.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Vouloir, C'est Pouvoir
The title for today is another favorite saying of mine. Vouloir, c'est pouvoir is the French way of saying, "where there's a will, there's a way." Meaning, I am going to learn this language. When I study, I just want to go ahead and finish my whole study book in one day! But then I have to remind myself that doing that would be pointless. There is no way that I could go through a 400 page book and remember every small detail about it. I just have to be patient. Good things come to those who are patient; is that the saying?
Anyway, I went to my class again this afternoon. Since it is Friday, my favorite teacher was in charge of today's class. I can already tell that I am going to prefer Tuesdays and Fridays because... A) Elo and I are the only students these days. B) The teacher speaks slower and makes sure I understand what she is saying. C) The material is easy cheesy basic information. I am sad that I only get two hours of learning in there.
After class, I decided to head on over to the train station to buy my ticket to Rennes. So I took the bus (I really am becoming a pro bus-taker) and got off at the station. Since I don't have my debit card yet, I couldn't buy my ticket at one of the electronic booths (at the booths I could easily 'cheat' my way through buying a ticket because they have English, German, French, Spanish, etc. text options), so I waited in line to talk to an actual person. I noticed that my line had an English option, but when I got up I told the lady I wanted to try and use my French. Once again, I was successful with buying a ticket using French! I was so proud. It really is the best feeling when I have a successful purchase, order, conversation, or whatever while using French only.
Unfortunately, I had to wait for the next bus for 30 minutes. However, since I was starving, I went to get lunch. I was so happy to see a family food place! Subway! So once again, I started my order with, "Je parle un petit peu français." The man answered in a thick French accent, "I speak a little English." While I was beginning my order about the bread, meat, and cheese, a big lady next to me was translating for me and speaking very loudly. My first thoughts were... 1) I can see the food items that he is pointing to. 2) I don't really remember wanting help. 3) Just because I'm American doesn't mean that I'm retarded. 4) Yes, I know what cheese is. When the man was asking if I wanted cheese, the woman kept saying cheese really loud and slow. I understand that she was trying to be nice, and help me, I could see that by the way she smiled and giggled, but it just made me feel annoyed and dumb.
Patricia, the house cleaner, was still at home when I arrived, but since she was vacuuming, she didn't notice me walk in. I wanted to stay out of her way, so I went upstairs in my room to eat my sub (I frightened her when she walked past my room later). Oh man, Subway here is 10x better! The bread choices here are different than in America, unless parmesan and oregano is a choice in the USA too. And the vegetables tasted fresher than they usually do when I eat at Subway. And even though they don't have mustard, well normal, American mustard that you put on hot dogs, the South Western sauce was delish! I don't know, maybe it just tasted amazing because I was missing American food and I was starving. After all, hunger is the best spice.
Remember how I spent eight hours in the sun not too long ago? Yeah well because of that sunburn, I am peeling now. It is gross, but I can't help but pick at the peeling skin. One of my friend's said I was like a snake, and it is totally true. I have never been able to peel so much at one time. Sorry if this is grossing you out. I will stop...
P.S. When the girls and I got back from their school, I went to study and they went to play. They came in my room in the strangest outfits I have ever seen!
Anyway, I went to my class again this afternoon. Since it is Friday, my favorite teacher was in charge of today's class. I can already tell that I am going to prefer Tuesdays and Fridays because... A) Elo and I are the only students these days. B) The teacher speaks slower and makes sure I understand what she is saying. C) The material is easy cheesy basic information. I am sad that I only get two hours of learning in there.
After class, I decided to head on over to the train station to buy my ticket to Rennes. So I took the bus (I really am becoming a pro bus-taker) and got off at the station. Since I don't have my debit card yet, I couldn't buy my ticket at one of the electronic booths (at the booths I could easily 'cheat' my way through buying a ticket because they have English, German, French, Spanish, etc. text options), so I waited in line to talk to an actual person. I noticed that my line had an English option, but when I got up I told the lady I wanted to try and use my French. Once again, I was successful with buying a ticket using French! I was so proud. It really is the best feeling when I have a successful purchase, order, conversation, or whatever while using French only.
Unfortunately, I had to wait for the next bus for 30 minutes. However, since I was starving, I went to get lunch. I was so happy to see a family food place! Subway! So once again, I started my order with, "Je parle un petit peu français." The man answered in a thick French accent, "I speak a little English." While I was beginning my order about the bread, meat, and cheese, a big lady next to me was translating for me and speaking very loudly. My first thoughts were... 1) I can see the food items that he is pointing to. 2) I don't really remember wanting help. 3) Just because I'm American doesn't mean that I'm retarded. 4) Yes, I know what cheese is. When the man was asking if I wanted cheese, the woman kept saying cheese really loud and slow. I understand that she was trying to be nice, and help me, I could see that by the way she smiled and giggled, but it just made me feel annoyed and dumb.
Patricia, the house cleaner, was still at home when I arrived, but since she was vacuuming, she didn't notice me walk in. I wanted to stay out of her way, so I went upstairs in my room to eat my sub (I frightened her when she walked past my room later). Oh man, Subway here is 10x better! The bread choices here are different than in America, unless parmesan and oregano is a choice in the USA too. And the vegetables tasted fresher than they usually do when I eat at Subway. And even though they don't have mustard, well normal, American mustard that you put on hot dogs, the South Western sauce was delish! I don't know, maybe it just tasted amazing because I was missing American food and I was starving. After all, hunger is the best spice.
Remember how I spent eight hours in the sun not too long ago? Yeah well because of that sunburn, I am peeling now. It is gross, but I can't help but pick at the peeling skin. One of my friend's said I was like a snake, and it is totally true. I have never been able to peel so much at one time. Sorry if this is grossing you out. I will stop...
P.S. When the girls and I got back from their school, I went to study and they went to play. They came in my room in the strangest outfits I have ever seen!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
I Have Discovered My Allergy
I think the meal that the girls made last night contained goat cheese. Once again I woke up this morning feeling sick. My stomach felt like it was tied in knots! I asked Sarah what exactly was in their sauce, and she said goat cheese. One of the reasons why my host family eats goat cheese is because Bertrand and Marion are allergic to normal dairy products from cows. And it turns out (at least I am pretty positive) I'm allergic to their substitute, goat products. I think it is pretty funny, but I am sure it'll turn out to be annoying when I am trying to make something that needs dairy. Good thing they have soy milk here. I've gone all through life without being allergic to anything, until now, and it is lame. I really like goat cheese! But now I can't have it, unless I want to wake up sick.
Anyway so I woke up this morning feeling terrible, but both Karine and Bertrand are out of town so I was responsible for bringing the girls to school. I skipped breakfast. Instead, I sat close to the bathroom, you know, just in case. I was nervous I was going to puke on the bus, so I brought a gallon sized zip-lock bag. Thankfully, I made the trip to and from their school, and even the whole day, without throwing up. I felt better after taking a nap.
Later, I went to my class. Today I had a different teacher. I don't remember either of my teachers' names, but the younger lady (she speaks slower so I can barely understand) teaches on Tuesdays and Fridays. The older lady (who speaks a lot faster and with words I have never heard) teaches Mondays and Thursdays. Class is going to be very hard for a while. Luckily, Elo knows English, so I can ask her questions after class if I need to!
When I got back from class, I watched a movie. Don't ask me what it was about because I don't know. Well I think I have an idea. It was an action movie, similar to Mission Impossible, about a man trying to figure out who assassinated his adoptive father. No one knew about this secret adoption. His father happened to be the owner of a massive, wealthy company, so because of this man's new inheritance, people were attempting to assassinate him as well. Parts of it were in English, French, and sometimes German, I'm guessing. Even without the dialogue being in English the whole film, I understood it was very intense! But I don't quite understand the ending.
I have discovered how to get the girls to do what I want. Candy. After they do their homework, shower, etc. I reward them with a caramel or their choice. It is a beautiful thing. Until I run out...
Tonight for dinner, we were supposed to have left overs from last night. Karine had mixed their sauce into the extra rice and then Sarah and I chopped up some tomatoes to add. Since I figured out goat products were in the sauce, I had to make something else for me. Well, I just heated up some leftovers from another dinner. Just so you know, we don't have a microwave here. I don't know why. Maybe their old one broke, or they just didn't feel like using a microwave. Anyway, I am learning how to live without the convenience of a microwave.
Anyway so I woke up this morning feeling terrible, but both Karine and Bertrand are out of town so I was responsible for bringing the girls to school. I skipped breakfast. Instead, I sat close to the bathroom, you know, just in case. I was nervous I was going to puke on the bus, so I brought a gallon sized zip-lock bag. Thankfully, I made the trip to and from their school, and even the whole day, without throwing up. I felt better after taking a nap.
Later, I went to my class. Today I had a different teacher. I don't remember either of my teachers' names, but the younger lady (she speaks slower so I can barely understand) teaches on Tuesdays and Fridays. The older lady (who speaks a lot faster and with words I have never heard) teaches Mondays and Thursdays. Class is going to be very hard for a while. Luckily, Elo knows English, so I can ask her questions after class if I need to!
When I got back from class, I watched a movie. Don't ask me what it was about because I don't know. Well I think I have an idea. It was an action movie, similar to Mission Impossible, about a man trying to figure out who assassinated his adoptive father. No one knew about this secret adoption. His father happened to be the owner of a massive, wealthy company, so because of this man's new inheritance, people were attempting to assassinate him as well. Parts of it were in English, French, and sometimes German, I'm guessing. Even without the dialogue being in English the whole film, I understood it was very intense! But I don't quite understand the ending.
I have discovered how to get the girls to do what I want. Candy. After they do their homework, shower, etc. I reward them with a caramel or their choice. It is a beautiful thing. Until I run out...
Tonight for dinner, we were supposed to have left overs from last night. Karine had mixed their sauce into the extra rice and then Sarah and I chopped up some tomatoes to add. Since I figured out goat products were in the sauce, I had to make something else for me. Well, I just heated up some leftovers from another dinner. Just so you know, we don't have a microwave here. I don't know why. Maybe their old one broke, or they just didn't feel like using a microwave. Anyway, I am learning how to live without the convenience of a microwave.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Bon Appétit
Today, the girls did not have school. France has school Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. They do have longer school days though. Instead of going 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM, they do 8:20 AM to 4:50 PM. Anyway, so the girls had a day off. We slept in, had breakfast late (9:00 AM), and sat around. I was in my room studying most of the morning, and the girls read or made little art projects. Karine was going to bring McDonald's for lunch around 1:00, so I prepared a salad a little before then. McDonald's here is good! Brooke believes it is because of the bread, and I totally agree! I worried that I will get back to America and everything will be ruined for me.
After lunch, I wanted to do something with the girls. I asked the girls if they would like to make bracelets, which they agreed to, so we needed to find the materials. We weren't exactly sure where we could find the materials, but we went out to find them anyway. Unfortunately, the materials were not at the big store, but they did have a ton of candy! I bought chocolates and caramels instead of material for bracelets. I didn't want our trip to the store to be pointless... Besides, I was really craving some chocolate.
We waiting for the bus while chewing on some delicious sweets, and shortly after boarding, we realized we were going to wrong way! Well, Sarah realized. Marion and I were too distracted with the delectable candies in my tote. So we got off at the next stop and started speed walking to another bus stop. I had no idea where Sarah was leading us, but felt like we should run. We started running until finally we saw the bus stop! I really hoped that we hadn't missed the bus, because I really didn't want to run anymore in sandals and carrying a massive tote. Luckily, while checking the schedule, our bus pulled up! We boarded, panting and hot. Unfortunately for us, the bus was extremely humid and smelly. I don't know why the driver didn't prop a window open...
Sarah really wanted to make dinner, and if Sarah wanted to, then Marion wanted to also. So I studied some more, and the girls started making dinner. I kept hearing loud noises, some fighting, and some blending. Every time I got worried, I would go check on them. Each time I peaked inside, the kitchen got messier and messier. I don't know if it was a total experiment, or if they tried to duplicate one of Karine's dishes. They were putting some mixture on peeled layers of chives and then wrapping it like a burrito. I was worried that the onions weren't going to be enough to eat, so I made some rice, and it's a good thing I did! The girls set the nice table in the living room, and pretended like Karine and I were guests at a fancy restaurant. They brought in the plates, and they looked awesome! I didn't know 10 and 8 year olds were capable of fancy presentation on dishes. And the dinner was pretty good! For dessert, the girls served blended strawberries frozen in a bowl, with yogurt and whipped cream on top. All in all, their dinner was a success.
After lunch, I wanted to do something with the girls. I asked the girls if they would like to make bracelets, which they agreed to, so we needed to find the materials. We weren't exactly sure where we could find the materials, but we went out to find them anyway. Unfortunately, the materials were not at the big store, but they did have a ton of candy! I bought chocolates and caramels instead of material for bracelets. I didn't want our trip to the store to be pointless... Besides, I was really craving some chocolate.
We waiting for the bus while chewing on some delicious sweets, and shortly after boarding, we realized we were going to wrong way! Well, Sarah realized. Marion and I were too distracted with the delectable candies in my tote. So we got off at the next stop and started speed walking to another bus stop. I had no idea where Sarah was leading us, but felt like we should run. We started running until finally we saw the bus stop! I really hoped that we hadn't missed the bus, because I really didn't want to run anymore in sandals and carrying a massive tote. Luckily, while checking the schedule, our bus pulled up! We boarded, panting and hot. Unfortunately for us, the bus was extremely humid and smelly. I don't know why the driver didn't prop a window open...
Sarah really wanted to make dinner, and if Sarah wanted to, then Marion wanted to also. So I studied some more, and the girls started making dinner. I kept hearing loud noises, some fighting, and some blending. Every time I got worried, I would go check on them. Each time I peaked inside, the kitchen got messier and messier. I don't know if it was a total experiment, or if they tried to duplicate one of Karine's dishes. They were putting some mixture on peeled layers of chives and then wrapping it like a burrito. I was worried that the onions weren't going to be enough to eat, so I made some rice, and it's a good thing I did! The girls set the nice table in the living room, and pretended like Karine and I were guests at a fancy restaurant. They brought in the plates, and they looked awesome! I didn't know 10 and 8 year olds were capable of fancy presentation on dishes. And the dinner was pretty good! For dessert, the girls served blended strawberries frozen in a bowl, with yogurt and whipped cream on top. All in all, their dinner was a success.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
My First Day
After I woke up the girls this morning and went downstairs for breakfast, Karine informed that I was to start my French class today! I felt both nervous and very excited! I was excited to start learning the language and possibly make friends, but I was nervous I wouldn't be able to find my class and that my teacher would only speak French. It is hard to learn when stuff is being explained in a language you don't know. So after everyone left for work and school, I got ready for my class. The bus went faster and stopped closer to my school than I thought it would. So I arrived super early. Today is very windy and cold, so I stood in the small hallway outside of my classroom. Eventually the small class before me (mornings are for people that pretty much speak French, and the afternoons are for beginners, like me) ended and I entered! Today, there was only one other student. Her name Elo and she is 28 and comes from Estonia. She is living with her boyfriend in St Malo. The teacher was hard to understand just because she was speaking French the whole time, but luckily the class lesson was very basic information.
I came home to find my laundry clean and neatly folded. Patricia, the cleaning lady, is a pro clothes folder. And everything looks ironed. I wish she knew that she really doesn't have to give my clothes special treatment. But now I feel like I will keep my drawers more neat so I don't mess up Patricia's pro folding. It is nice not having to do my own laundry...
I have run into a problem. When I try to tell the girls to do something that they don't want, I don't know how to get them to actually do it. I spent 20 minutes today trying to get Sarah to practice the piano. Which is funny because I remember hating playing the piano when I was little. Maybe it's karma... Eventually I gave up and figured Karine could take care of it and I could ask her how to handle it better. I didn't want to do something like take the book from her or drag her downstairs because I didn't know if that was crossing the line. Plus the only things I knew how to say were yes and please. But I have permission from Karine to be more firm.
For dinner tonight, we had this yummy potato salad! It had smoked fish in it. I don't know if they were scales, but the shiny silver outside of the fish was still on the meat. I really liked the flavor of the salad, but my mind was having a hard time eating the fish with the scales still on. Funny how something can taste so good, but because your mind wants to think it is gross, you have a hard time swallowing. For the third night in a row, we had this delicious apple crumble for dessert! For all those who make a crumble for pies or other treats, try adding some oatmeal to the mix. It is fantastic!
P.S. Thank you all who read my blog! I have hit over 1,000 views! Woo! I hope to continue to keep my readers happy.
I came home to find my laundry clean and neatly folded. Patricia, the cleaning lady, is a pro clothes folder. And everything looks ironed. I wish she knew that she really doesn't have to give my clothes special treatment. But now I feel like I will keep my drawers more neat so I don't mess up Patricia's pro folding. It is nice not having to do my own laundry...
I have run into a problem. When I try to tell the girls to do something that they don't want, I don't know how to get them to actually do it. I spent 20 minutes today trying to get Sarah to practice the piano. Which is funny because I remember hating playing the piano when I was little. Maybe it's karma... Eventually I gave up and figured Karine could take care of it and I could ask her how to handle it better. I didn't want to do something like take the book from her or drag her downstairs because I didn't know if that was crossing the line. Plus the only things I knew how to say were yes and please. But I have permission from Karine to be more firm.
For dinner tonight, we had this yummy potato salad! It had smoked fish in it. I don't know if they were scales, but the shiny silver outside of the fish was still on the meat. I really liked the flavor of the salad, but my mind was having a hard time eating the fish with the scales still on. Funny how something can taste so good, but because your mind wants to think it is gross, you have a hard time swallowing. For the third night in a row, we had this delicious apple crumble for dessert! For all those who make a crumble for pies or other treats, try adding some oatmeal to the mix. It is fantastic!
P.S. Thank you all who read my blog! I have hit over 1,000 views! Woo! I hope to continue to keep my readers happy.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Girls' First Day
Today was Sarah and Marion's first day of school. I woke them up this morning; opened the shutters and a window, turned on some music, and threw their clothes at them. After they got dressed and ready for school, we ate breakfast. France is going to turn me into a big breakfast person. Instead of needing a lot of preparation and cooking, breakfast here just requires bread, cereal, fruit, and jam. Only in France would there be a cereal that has chocolate in it. Why does America not have this cereal?! Nothing is better than starting the day with some delicious dark chocolate in my cereal.
When Bertrand or Karine are here, they will take the girls to school. This morning, I went with Karine to see where to pick them up and what route the bus will take before stopping. We also stopped by the music school for the girls. Sarah plays the piano, and Marion plays the trombone. Then Karine dropped me back off at home and went to work. I didn't know what to do all day. It was so quiet and I was alone. I took a nap, sat outside, worked on my blog to catch up, started some emails, and spent a lot of time on Stumbleupon. For those who don't know, Stumbleupon is a site where you can check your interests, and random things that apply will show up. Today I read a lot of psychology articles, craft ideas, saw some really cool pictures, and learned some random facts. For example, George Washington grew marijuana in his garden... Strange.
I was nervous for the bus. I wasn't positive about where the bus stop was or what time the bus came. To make matters worse, I have never used a public bus before. I was ten minutes early for the bus, but that gave me time to write down important times for that stop. When I was on the bus, I realized we weren't stopped at all the bus stops. I had no idea how to let the driver know which place I needed to stop at! I noticed a light would go on that said stop needed, but I didn't know how to make that light go on. Fortunately, the place that I needed to stop at had people that wanted to board. On the way back with the girls, they showed me the button I need to push when I want to stop. So from now on, I will be a pro at riding on the bus.
When Bertrand or Karine are here, they will take the girls to school. This morning, I went with Karine to see where to pick them up and what route the bus will take before stopping. We also stopped by the music school for the girls. Sarah plays the piano, and Marion plays the trombone. Then Karine dropped me back off at home and went to work. I didn't know what to do all day. It was so quiet and I was alone. I took a nap, sat outside, worked on my blog to catch up, started some emails, and spent a lot of time on Stumbleupon. For those who don't know, Stumbleupon is a site where you can check your interests, and random things that apply will show up. Today I read a lot of psychology articles, craft ideas, saw some really cool pictures, and learned some random facts. For example, George Washington grew marijuana in his garden... Strange.
I was nervous for the bus. I wasn't positive about where the bus stop was or what time the bus came. To make matters worse, I have never used a public bus before. I was ten minutes early for the bus, but that gave me time to write down important times for that stop. When I was on the bus, I realized we weren't stopped at all the bus stops. I had no idea how to let the driver know which place I needed to stop at! I noticed a light would go on that said stop needed, but I didn't know how to make that light go on. Fortunately, the place that I needed to stop at had people that wanted to board. On the way back with the girls, they showed me the button I need to push when I want to stop. So from now on, I will be a pro at riding on the bus.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Sunday Train
Today, Brooke and I went to church. It was so weird to me that my church is in another town one hour away, plus it is about 15 minutes away from Brooke's house in a car (we will usually take the bus). I have grown up with a church three minutes away from my house. And Mesa has LDS churches everywhere. I was surprised to see the building looked pretty much like church buildings back home, except the building in Rennes is tiny. Church starts at 9:00 AM even though there are quite a few people that have to travel from other cities, like me. Not sure who decided nine o'clock was the best time. Anyway, church was different. For starters, the songs were in French, not English, and we had no idea what people were saying. Luckily, there are people that know English, so they translated for Brooke and I. The couple missionaries in my ward are from Mesa, AZ! People at church are very friendly, and I am excited to feel like I have friends now! I'm happy that I have something here in France that is familiar, and, apart from the language difference, similar to home.
After church and a little nap, Brooke, her host family, and I went to a manmade canal system. I forget what they are called, but I think it is similar to how the Panama canal works. Besides the dirt paths, everything was so green! But do I really have to keep saying that France is green? I think you all get the idea by now, but growing up in a desert, green places amaze me. There were some really cute houses at the gates. Their are people that are paid to live there and push a button for the gates to let boats come through. Sign me up!
Sadly, we had to leave because I had to catch the train at 6:30 PM to head back to St Malo. The train pick up/drop off is seriously right around the corner from Brooke's house. Apparently we had to tell the conducted that we got on at the Pontchalliou stop instead of the main train station. I don't know why it matters, but they can fine you for it! Lucky for me (it seems like I have a lot of luck in France), a lady knew English and was boarding with me so she informed the conductor about both of us. The train was pretty full, so Corinne and I sat by each other. She also lives in St Malo, and is a teacher. She loves traveling and has been through most of the US. Her English was good because she lived in New York for a year. At our stop in St Malo, she gave me her contact information incase I wanted anything from her. Or needed help with something.
I forgot to check my email before I left to see if Karine knew I was coming back. Because the busses don't run on Sundays, I needed Karine to pick me up. So there I was at the train station, no phone, no internet, no way to make sure I was getting home without walking. Corinne noticed I still looked very lost and offered a ride, but I didn't feel comfortable going with someone I met on a train, even if she helped me so much and gave me advice on the train. Ten minutes after getting off the train, Karine pulled up. Rennes was amazing and fun, but it was nice to be home. Well, home in France.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Rennes
Before I talk about Rennes, I want to mention something else first. Since I try and use English with the girls, even though they have no idea what it means, they have picked up on a few things. When they want my attention they will say, "Annalise, come on please." They will say it until they have my attention. Since Annalise and please rhyme, they love starting with my name and ending with please.
Today Brooke and I ventured around Rennes, and I loved it! We spent all day Saturday just walking around the main part of the city. We started at the marché, AKA farmers' market. It was very crowded, busy, and totally awesome! Unfortunately I only have pictures from just a small corner of the flower section, but I guess it will give you a small glimpse of the marché. One great thing about the marché were the street performers! There were a few guys who played the accordion and it made the air sound like France. I wanted to say I bought something from the marché so I ended up buying one peach. The guy was trying to see if I wanted anything else because people don't usually buy only one peach. I had no idea what he said. So I just gave him a confused look and said uhhhhhh.
After the marché, we continued to walk around the shops and stores. I wanted to go inside every shoe store, but luckily, I was able to resist. I did buy a watch, hat, and some other things. One of my purchases was my ticket back to St Malo. We happened to walk buy a train ticket store, and walked in. At first we didn't know if it was actually for buying tickets or if we would be able to buy a ticket using what little French we knew. But we walked up to one of the desks and tried asking if they spoke English. Either the man knew no English, or he just wanted to see how crappy our French was, but he made us use French. I was very surprised and proud to use only French to buy my ticket. I could barely understand his questions and I remembered vocabulary I learned in high school about tickets. Brooke and I walked away giggling with satisfaction at our successful purchase.
Later, we went to a big green, flowery, beautiful park. On the way, we past a breathtaking church! I don't know if I will ever stop being amazed at the beautiful architecture in Europe. And I don't understand why America didn't think about making buildings as beautiful as in Europe. Also, I wish we had more churches with stained glass like the cathedrals here. I could sit all day staring at the all the colors in the windows. Anyway so at this park, we stopped at a little ice cream stand. We did know how to pronounce the items on the menu, but luckily there were pictures we could point at while saying, "I would like that." Behind us, there were two French guys that started to laugh and mimic us. Of course we started laughing because we knew we sounded silly with our bad pronunciation and accents (it's weird to think that I have an accent). We tried talking to them for about five minutes, but it eventually got to a point where we didn't understand each other so we just walked away. The park was massive and we didn't really know where to go, so we ended up wandering aimlessly down the paths, eating our ice cream. In time, we got tired of walking and decided to sit down on the grass.
Brooke and I really wanted to eat lunch and dinner at restaurants. The closer it go to lunch time, the more nervous I got. We tried studying my French phrase book from the food section, but there were so many things to remember... And we didn't know if we were supposed to seat ourselves or wait for someone to seat us. I guess we are supposed to seat ourselves and they waiter/waitress will come to us. Anyway, we were totally lost. The menus were in French of course and we only knew what a few of the items were. We had a dictionary, but honestly, I did not want to be 'those' people who were totally ignorant. Even though we kinda were... Lucky for us, we happened to be sitting next to two Americans from New York! They explained the menu and how to ask for food and such. Our next problem was pronunciation. Of course we ordered a crepe that had a billion ingredients in the title. Brooke ended up pointing and saying what translated to I would like here. Our waitress understood and since Brooke ordered first, and we were ordering the same thing, I only had to say, "la même chose," meaning, the same thing. For dinner, Brooke wanted to go to a crêperie she went to with her host family because they had English menus. When we got there, we weren't exactly sure if it was open or not, we saw people sitting down, but they looked like customers not owners. We asked if they knew English and sure enough, one of them did! We still had to ask if they worked there, if they were open, and if we were supposed to seat ourselves. All of which he answered yes. Oh I just love how out of the loop we are. It is quite comical, but mostly frustrating. I loved this crêperie. I ordered a dinner crêpe that had smoked salmon, chives, and crème fraîche. It was superb. But the absolute best part of dinner was the dessert. I got something that had a ball of vanilla ice cream coated in finely chopped almonds and toffee with a small meringue center. Then it was drizzled in the most magnificent salty caramel I have ever tasted. If I can't have that stuff in heaven, then I don't want to go. Ha kidding. But really I wish I could buy the caramel in a jar and sit in my room all day eating it by the spoonful. Brooke laughed at me because I was eating slowly (I'm a fast eater. In a big family, you had to eat fast if you wanted to have seconds.) and on my first bite I could stop my mmm mmm good sound of satisfaction. After she tried the caramel, she couldn't blame me. I definitely have to go back to that crêperie each time I go to Rennes...
Friday, September 2, 2011
Coup De Soleil
Today was a beautiful day! The sun was out and shining, no clouds in sight, and the sea was sparkling. Unfortunately, I decided to wear jeans and a jacket to the sailing lessons... I don't know why I did such a crazy thing on such a marvelous day. I ended up sleeping while the kids were at their lesson, and when I woke up, I was sweating. At that point, I really regretted my outfit for the day. I only wore jeans because I didn't feel like shaving this morning, but I wished I wore shorts anyway. Lucky for me, Karine came to tell me that she was going to bring lunch and, if I wanted, a swimsuit! Of course I wanted my suit. I was jealous of the kids running and playing in the blue water! So when Karine came back, I changed and headed out to the water. I knew the water was going to be freezing, but it was a hot day (80 degrees for the high) and I wanted to go for a swim. Just so you know, I am one of those people that has to jump into the water or else I won't get in. If I try to ease myself into cold water, I chicken out and go some place warm. Today, I had no place to jump in the water so I had to force myself into cold water (60 degrees for the high this time of year). It was freezing. Eventually my legs just went numb so they weren't a problem. Maelle-Marie told me I just have to start swimming, but I wouldn't do that. I didn't want to go further, but I didn't want to chicken out either. So I splashed myself until I thought my skin could handle the shock. The water still chilled me, but I was swimming! And eventually I put my head under.
I forgot to mention earlier that I rarely swim in the ocean. I am deathly afraid of sharks and because of that fear, I don't go in water that I can't see whats going on AKA California beaches. I know the chances are very small to have a shark encounter, but what if I am the 1 in a million. They are fascinating creatures and I love watching things and learning more about them, but don't joke around about sharks if I'm trying to go in the ocean. Anyway, so while Maelle-Marie and I were venturing out into deeper water, I made the mistake of mentioning my fear of sharks. I believe that sharks won't be in cold water and as far North as St-Malo, but Maelle-Marie saying the 's' word gave me massive anxiety. She finally stopped when I turned around to walk back.
We were at the beach from 9:15 AM to 5:00 PM, plus a 15 minute walk home. Since I kept falling asleep while laying out, trying to get a tan, I forgot to put on sunscreen... I'm not lobster red, well not yet, but I am still sun burnt (which is where the inspiration for the title came from, coup de soleil = sunburn). So while I am typing this, I feel like I am radiating heat. Too bad it's not a cold night. But the places that didn't get burnt are getting darker. I am determined to get tan, and slowly but surely, it is happening. Hopefully I won't peel from this sunburn later...
Since Maelle-Marie, Aymeric, and I needed transportation to Rennes this weekend, Brooke and her host family came to St-Malo for dinner (plus we had a lot of crab and bucket of shellfish the kids caught to eat). It was a lot of fun! First of all, I got to meet Guilhem and Marie-Faustine, the younger kids Brooke takes care of. Guilhem, 7, is just as crazy and loud as Aymeric and they could almost be twins. And Marie-Faustine is a chatty and adorable 3 year old. We had dinner at the beach and played some volleyball. After dinner, we started a long-jump competition. Eventually we went back home for dessert and left for Rennes.
Brooke and I are very excited to have some time to ourselves, not that we don't like being with the kids. We plan to go to a restaurant, the farmers market, and church. I am looking forward to seeing the city. Unfortunately it is hot and humid, so I hear. And Rennes doesn't have a constant breeze like St-Malo. But no matter the weather, I'm sure I will have a good time.
I forgot to mention earlier that I rarely swim in the ocean. I am deathly afraid of sharks and because of that fear, I don't go in water that I can't see whats going on AKA California beaches. I know the chances are very small to have a shark encounter, but what if I am the 1 in a million. They are fascinating creatures and I love watching things and learning more about them, but don't joke around about sharks if I'm trying to go in the ocean. Anyway, so while Maelle-Marie and I were venturing out into deeper water, I made the mistake of mentioning my fear of sharks. I believe that sharks won't be in cold water and as far North as St-Malo, but Maelle-Marie saying the 's' word gave me massive anxiety. She finally stopped when I turned around to walk back.
We were at the beach from 9:15 AM to 5:00 PM, plus a 15 minute walk home. Since I kept falling asleep while laying out, trying to get a tan, I forgot to put on sunscreen... I'm not lobster red, well not yet, but I am still sun burnt (which is where the inspiration for the title came from, coup de soleil = sunburn). So while I am typing this, I feel like I am radiating heat. Too bad it's not a cold night. But the places that didn't get burnt are getting darker. I am determined to get tan, and slowly but surely, it is happening. Hopefully I won't peel from this sunburn later...
Since Maelle-Marie, Aymeric, and I needed transportation to Rennes this weekend, Brooke and her host family came to St-Malo for dinner (plus we had a lot of crab and bucket of shellfish the kids caught to eat). It was a lot of fun! First of all, I got to meet Guilhem and Marie-Faustine, the younger kids Brooke takes care of. Guilhem, 7, is just as crazy and loud as Aymeric and they could almost be twins. And Marie-Faustine is a chatty and adorable 3 year old. We had dinner at the beach and played some volleyball. After dinner, we started a long-jump competition. Eventually we went back home for dessert and left for Rennes.
Brooke and I are very excited to have some time to ourselves, not that we don't like being with the kids. We plan to go to a restaurant, the farmers market, and church. I am looking forward to seeing the city. Unfortunately it is hot and humid, so I hear. And Rennes doesn't have a constant breeze like St-Malo. But no matter the weather, I'm sure I will have a good time.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Crab Hunting
I really wish I knew more French. The old lady that swims everyday came back and sat by me. We were able to ask each how we were doing, but that was as far as the conversation went. I think I am going to write some phrases on my hand to say to her... Anyway so today at the sailing lessons while lying on my towel soaking up some rays (it was sunny and warm today, about 75 degrees for the high), I noticed the waves were getting closer to me. I thought I was crazy so I just sat there for maybe five minutes and realized that the tide was coming in fast. So I had to move to a small sunny spot in between boats. Luckily the water never got close to me again. Once again, another old Saint-Malo native (the majority of the people here are old/older) tried to make some conversation with me. I tried to say I didn't speak French, but I don't think he heard... I don't know if it is me, or if it is just these peoples' elderly ears. So I just nodded and smiled until he was done speaking. Good thing he didn't ask me any questions... I decided to lie down and pretend to sleep while listening to my iPod. That would prevent anyone else from trying to talk to me!
When we got back to the house, Bertrand's mother, Veronique, was home making lunch. We had rice mixed with some red cabbage, onion, artichoke, pickles, and some type of crustacean meat. I don't know what it is with pickles here, but they use it in a lot of salad type of things. I don't know if I particularly like the addition of pickles, but I'll eat it anyway. Veronique made an apple dessert. I don't know what it was called or how it was made, but I will try my best to describe it. The bottom crust tasted like an egg white, but it had a sort of bready type of texture. On top of the egg bread was tiny chunks of apple and cinnamon and sugar to top. Basically, it was like an apple pie but with no crust on top and a thicker eggy bottom crust. It was absolutely yummy!
This next piece of info is for my dad. I haven't really cooked anything new. And I really haven't cooked all that much this week. I remember cooking vegetables. The dish had broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, carrots, potatoes, and left over rotisserie chicken. I remember watching Karine make a similar dish so I copied something she did. I cracked one egg and added some soy milk (Marion and Bertrand can only have soy or things from goats) and mixed them together. Once the vegetables were hot and the butter was melted, I added the egg and milk mixture. It tasted similar to Karine's vegetable dish so I think it was a successful copy. Other than that, I haven't really had to cook much. But I'm sure this next week I will have more things to share with you all.
After lunch, we went crab hunting again. There was no way that we could have a meal with only four crabs. At first, our hunt was pretty pitiful. We could only find teeny tiny baby crabs that were the size of a dime and fish (one fish jumped out of the bucket at my face so I through it back in water; I was not going to deal with fish jumping at me). Eventually the kids asked an older man for help. He was glad to help. So the next two hours, he lifted huge rocks to help the kids find crabs. We were very grateful for his help because when he joined our crab hunting crew, it was nonstop crab catching! Eventually I got tired of picking up all the pails and shovels the kids ditched and following them, so I just parked myself in the middle of the area they were searching. The buckets were filling fast! So my job turned into the crab watcher. The only buckets we had were little pails for making sand castles, so the sneaky crabs would try and crawl out. My job was to poke them back into the pail (I had gloves on) and settle any fights between the stacked crabs. The pails were too full for any more crabs so Maelle-Marie and Marion ran to empty a trash bag I had and started putting crabs in there. The old man helped the kids all that time and with all that crab. When he was finally parting ways with us, I thanked him and understood what he said back! I can't remember how exactly it was said and with all the words, but it would translate to, you're welcome, it was fun for me. Funny how the day before we spent two hours hunting and only caught five crabs, and today we spent a little over two hours and caught a grand total of 39 crabs!
Later that night, we had crab for dinner. And I'm sure we will be eating crab tomorrow as well.
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When we got back to the house, Bertrand's mother, Veronique, was home making lunch. We had rice mixed with some red cabbage, onion, artichoke, pickles, and some type of crustacean meat. I don't know what it is with pickles here, but they use it in a lot of salad type of things. I don't know if I particularly like the addition of pickles, but I'll eat it anyway. Veronique made an apple dessert. I don't know what it was called or how it was made, but I will try my best to describe it. The bottom crust tasted like an egg white, but it had a sort of bready type of texture. On top of the egg bread was tiny chunks of apple and cinnamon and sugar to top. Basically, it was like an apple pie but with no crust on top and a thicker eggy bottom crust. It was absolutely yummy!
This next piece of info is for my dad. I haven't really cooked anything new. And I really haven't cooked all that much this week. I remember cooking vegetables. The dish had broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, carrots, potatoes, and left over rotisserie chicken. I remember watching Karine make a similar dish so I copied something she did. I cracked one egg and added some soy milk (Marion and Bertrand can only have soy or things from goats) and mixed them together. Once the vegetables were hot and the butter was melted, I added the egg and milk mixture. It tasted similar to Karine's vegetable dish so I think it was a successful copy. Other than that, I haven't really had to cook much. But I'm sure this next week I will have more things to share with you all.
After lunch, we went crab hunting again. There was no way that we could have a meal with only four crabs. At first, our hunt was pretty pitiful. We could only find teeny tiny baby crabs that were the size of a dime and fish (one fish jumped out of the bucket at my face so I through it back in water; I was not going to deal with fish jumping at me). Eventually the kids asked an older man for help. He was glad to help. So the next two hours, he lifted huge rocks to help the kids find crabs. We were very grateful for his help because when he joined our crab hunting crew, it was nonstop crab catching! Eventually I got tired of picking up all the pails and shovels the kids ditched and following them, so I just parked myself in the middle of the area they were searching. The buckets were filling fast! So my job turned into the crab watcher. The only buckets we had were little pails for making sand castles, so the sneaky crabs would try and crawl out. My job was to poke them back into the pail (I had gloves on) and settle any fights between the stacked crabs. The pails were too full for any more crabs so Maelle-Marie and Marion ran to empty a trash bag I had and started putting crabs in there. The old man helped the kids all that time and with all that crab. When he was finally parting ways with us, I thanked him and understood what he said back! I can't remember how exactly it was said and with all the words, but it would translate to, you're welcome, it was fun for me. Funny how the day before we spent two hours hunting and only caught five crabs, and today we spent a little over two hours and caught a grand total of 39 crabs!
Later that night, we had crab for dinner. And I'm sure we will be eating crab tomorrow as well.
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