My class went to Versailles Friday and we had a tour of the Chateau de Versailles. The initial view of the palace is shocking. I have seen a ton of pictures and drawings, but nothing prepares someone for seeing this massive building in person. I have mixed emotions about it because the building is so beautiful, but at the same time it is such an obscene display of wealth that the king didn't really have at his disposal. Many people suffered for the luxury of that palace. But despite my mixed emotions, it cannot be denied that the palace is a work of art. Literally. The rooms contain several paintings, whether they be on the ceiling or the wall. notion of leaving something blank must have been ridiculous to the wealthy. But it wasn't just paintings, there was amazing molding and the marble work as well. Of course there were a ton of monograms for "Louis", the names of the four kings who resided in Versailles. My favorite room was the hall of mirrors. I loved the hall of mirrors because it was like a dream. There were (obviously) mirrors along the walls, making the statues and chandeliers look even more plentiful. But aside from the hall of mirrors, it was really amazing to see where the kings and queens resided, and to be in rooms where such rich and fantastic history took place.
However, there were three things that I was disappointed about on this trip. The first was that there was Japanese art work by Takashi Murakami throughout the palace. This artwork was cartoonish and contrasted sharply with the grace and elegance of Versailles. The reason that people gave for Murakami's allowance in the palace was that Versailles was a place for innovation, so the artwork fit in with the theme of the palace. While that may have credence, the art work blocked some paintings, and detracted from the rooms. I don't want to be walking through the hall of mirrors and have to look at these modern, and in my view, horrid works of art. The second thing I was disappointed about was that we didn't get to see the gardens. This is in combination with the third thing that disappointed me, our time constraint. We were only allowed to be there for over an hour and a half, which is an injustice. Thus, because of our short time allotted, we weren't able to view the magnificent gardens. So, I am taking Ashlee there for a day when she comes.
That night we went out to an absinthe bar. It was a cool bar that had a grunge or rock feel to it. I had a Van Gogh drink. I only know that absinthe was in it, I couldn't tell you anything else about it. It was good, but it was too strong so I didn't have a shot of absinthe. Jessen, Deepa and I were the only ones who liked it so we will have to go back sometime so I can do the shot. Jessen did one, and it was this intense, complicated process that looked fun. After that bar, we went to this Irish pub, which was tiny and overcrowded, making for a very fun time. I had an Irish Car Bomb, which was delicious. We hung out there for a while and then we went for (of course) crepes and french fries. We found this place in the Bastille area where they make the crepes fresh at the stand and then inside they have really good fries. We all got one or the other (I got a crepe), and then after that some people went back out and some people headed back. I went out to the other bar with people. But after that bar I headed back because I was exhausted, and I had to get up early the next day for...MONET'S GARDEN!
Monet's garden was breathtaking. I went with Lauren, Grace, and Dasha. We had a short train ride to Vernon, and then in Vernon we had to take a bus to Giverny. It was a dream come true to see the place where such amazing works were compiled and composed. The gardens were mostly dead because it's autumn, but they were still nice to look at. His house was fantastic. We weren't supposed to take pictures, but they weren't really enforcing that rule so I have pictures of his living room and bedroom. In his living room there are copies of his paintings, so me and some people are going to go this week to the Monet exhibit to see his works. After walking through the living room, we went to his bedroom. There was a window open in his room, that overlooked the gardens. I could imagine Monet sitting at this window in the spring looking at his gardens in full bloom and just being overcome with the desire to paint. My favorite room was the kitchen. It was covered in blue and white tiles, which copper pots and pans. I felt like I was in Greece. Throughout his house there were Japanese pictures. I understand that the Japanese had an influence with impressionism, but it was still shocking to me to see them in such abundance in Monet's house.
After the house we went to the water lily pond. Again, breathtaking. We stood on the iconic Japanese bridge, and walked around the pond. The four of us sat on a bench for a little while and just took it all in. If I owned this land I would rarely leave it. Being surrounded by countryside, this little oasis takes you away to another realm. Its beauty is organic. After taking about fifty pictures, we went to the impressionism museum. It was a nice, quaint museum. When we were done there we walked the town of Giverny. We saw Monet's tomb, and the few restaurants and coffee shops. I understand that the season is ending soon, but I really liked that we didn't feel like tourists. I think all there is to do in Giverny is Monet's garden, but there weren't little tourist shops lining the streets. Rather, the town had retained its historic charm. I also really liked having the contrast to Paris. One does a 360 turn and all they see are trees and hills. Additionally, it is so silent and tranquil. For a day, it was nice to be in this environment and realize that there really is more to France than Paris.
When we got back, Jessen joined us and we went to Chinatown for dinner. The restaurant we went to can safely be described as a Chinese discotech. There were cases of fine alcohol and giant bottles of champagne, not to mention the waterfall that led to a tank filled with lobsters. It was nice to have some Chinese food after our day of sparse food. I didn't go out last night because honestly, that day of walking and travel wore me out. Instead I came back, climbed into bed and just relaxed. In less than an hour we will be leaving for the Catacomb's and the Pere Lachaise cemetery, and tonight we are going out for halloween. I hope everyone has a great day!
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
"Paris is always a good idea" - Sabrina
Ahh...Paris. How I love it here. The past couple of days have been quite Parisien and perfect. Yesterday Jake and I went on our usual Tuesday adventure. We went to this museum in the Tuileries. It was a museum filled of photographs, and there were some photographs I really liked, but on the whole this wasn't my favorite museum. I am not the biggest fan of photographs, because I figure if you give someone five-hundred shots then one is bound to turn out to be acceptable. Also, I am not a fan of portraits because I feel like they are too fake. Rather, I like photography that captures a moment in time that is revealing and truthful. There was this one photo at the museum where soldiers were piled into a train, and they were waving. It was touching and powerful. Another photo was of these women walking down the street. Such beautiful simplicity, it was very soothing to look at it. I like photography like this. I don't like the ones with chimneys or of fruit. I mean I can like it, but it doesn't have the same effect as a painting. Painting is my one true love for art.
After the museum we wander over to get falafel. And always, it was delicious. Jake and I decided that we are going to make it sometime back in Chicago. I am sure that it won't be as good, but hopefully it will be a close runner up. We didn't sit down, we just got it from the window and decided to walk around. We saw the Hotel de Ville, which is really cool. I have seen it before, but I got to actually look at the statues and see the details of the architecture. After we were done with falafel we came across this amazing gelato place, so of course we had to go in for a little scoop. I mixed things up and got some coffee gelato and Jake got peppermint.
Today Jake and I went out to lunch at a Japanese restaurant because we both have been craving sushi. It made me miss home. My mom and dad make excellent sushi, and so to have it today made me want to sit in my kitchen with my family. Since we are students we got a deal on our meal. We had soup, salad, and a salmon and california roll for only 7 euro. I was super impressed with Jake because we are both in the same French class, but he was able to get us seated and order all in French. I just cannot get this language the way I got spanish. These people speak so incredibly fast, their pronunciation of letters defies logic for me, and don't even get me started on their spelling. I can order things fine, but I am sad to report I will most likely not become fluent in my time here. I do want to keep up with it though, because when I come back here it would be a lot easier to know how to hold a legitimate conversation. So Sophie and Emilia be prepared for some conversations in the winter. I apologize in advance for my horrid accent.
After French me and Dasha met Jessen, Grace, Deepa and Jennifer at the Louvre. It was great to walk through the Louvre for a second time. I saw home African Art, paintings and statues that I hadn't seen before. But I still haven't seen all of the museum because it is so giant. But it was fun to walk around with Dasha. There was some Russian art that she translated for me, and she has actually met one of the artists whose works are on display. When we were done at the Louvre we went to Angelina, where we met up with Lauren and Alex, and had the best hot chocolate in the world. It wasn't really hot chocolate, it was more just melted chocolate with some whipped cream. The hot chocolate came in its own separate pitcher, and you poured it into the cup so I had two cups of this amazingness. I also had an African dessert, which was of course chocolate and also one of the best things I have ever eaten. The next I go, I am going to get the meringue dessert. But the hot chocolate and pastries weren't just delicious, but the building itself was gorgeous. It was like stepping into a 1920's salon. I felt out of place in my jeans and plaid shirt.
Tomorrow I am seeing the Social Network with my French conversation group and then VERSAILLES FRIDAY! Have a great night!
After the museum we wander over to get falafel. And always, it was delicious. Jake and I decided that we are going to make it sometime back in Chicago. I am sure that it won't be as good, but hopefully it will be a close runner up. We didn't sit down, we just got it from the window and decided to walk around. We saw the Hotel de Ville, which is really cool. I have seen it before, but I got to actually look at the statues and see the details of the architecture. After we were done with falafel we came across this amazing gelato place, so of course we had to go in for a little scoop. I mixed things up and got some coffee gelato and Jake got peppermint.
Today Jake and I went out to lunch at a Japanese restaurant because we both have been craving sushi. It made me miss home. My mom and dad make excellent sushi, and so to have it today made me want to sit in my kitchen with my family. Since we are students we got a deal on our meal. We had soup, salad, and a salmon and california roll for only 7 euro. I was super impressed with Jake because we are both in the same French class, but he was able to get us seated and order all in French. I just cannot get this language the way I got spanish. These people speak so incredibly fast, their pronunciation of letters defies logic for me, and don't even get me started on their spelling. I can order things fine, but I am sad to report I will most likely not become fluent in my time here. I do want to keep up with it though, because when I come back here it would be a lot easier to know how to hold a legitimate conversation. So Sophie and Emilia be prepared for some conversations in the winter. I apologize in advance for my horrid accent.
After French me and Dasha met Jessen, Grace, Deepa and Jennifer at the Louvre. It was great to walk through the Louvre for a second time. I saw home African Art, paintings and statues that I hadn't seen before. But I still haven't seen all of the museum because it is so giant. But it was fun to walk around with Dasha. There was some Russian art that she translated for me, and she has actually met one of the artists whose works are on display. When we were done at the Louvre we went to Angelina, where we met up with Lauren and Alex, and had the best hot chocolate in the world. It wasn't really hot chocolate, it was more just melted chocolate with some whipped cream. The hot chocolate came in its own separate pitcher, and you poured it into the cup so I had two cups of this amazingness. I also had an African dessert, which was of course chocolate and also one of the best things I have ever eaten. The next I go, I am going to get the meringue dessert. But the hot chocolate and pastries weren't just delicious, but the building itself was gorgeous. It was like stepping into a 1920's salon. I felt out of place in my jeans and plaid shirt.
Tomorrow I am seeing the Social Network with my French conversation group and then VERSAILLES FRIDAY! Have a great night!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Merci Paris
It's so funny. I read some facebook notes I did when I was a freshman in college, and I am so different today than I was then. My first year in college I was this girl in love, who was just trying to get through the days. My life was a countdown to when I would see him next and I was not happy at UChicago. My classes were too hard, I disliked the basketball team (not the girls, the coaching staff), and I didn't have the same vigor or drive for success that possessed me in high school. Now I am in Paris, happier than ever, and I am flourishing. When Megan and I were discussing studying abroad we both said that we needed this experience, we needed the break. And you know what? I did need this. I needed to come here and be reminded of what I have to look forward to. I needed to be reminded of life. Pascal writes that people are stuck in the past and looking for the future, but that they rarely focus on the present. Paris has brought me to the present. I live in the moment here, because I know that soon it will be over. I do what I want. Any worries that come after this program are irrelevant, because right now I am being Parisien. I am fulfilling a dream. I am eating escargot and reading at the Eiffel Tower. I am speaking French and ordering crepes at stands on the street. I am going to bars and taking trips with friends. I am living.
From my Paris dorm I read the words of 18 and 19 year old me. I don't dwell on what was, but rather I smile because of the growth and progress I have made as a person. Sure, there are things I wish I could change in my past, but experience creates and structures the person and having regrets does no one no good. All I can do is keep living the moment and enjoying my too short time here. Well, again time for bed and remember, carpe diem baby.
From my Paris dorm I read the words of 18 and 19 year old me. I don't dwell on what was, but rather I smile because of the growth and progress I have made as a person. Sure, there are things I wish I could change in my past, but experience creates and structures the person and having regrets does no one no good. All I can do is keep living the moment and enjoying my too short time here. Well, again time for bed and remember, carpe diem baby.
Thoughts and Observations. Nothing exciting.
Just going to write about some random Paris things that I haven't written about before and I was thinking about today. I think it is a law in Paris that people need to own a small dog. Everyday I see a ton of small, adorable puppies (even if they are dogs I refer to them as puppies) with their owners walking down the street. People bring their dogs onto the trains, buses, into stores, everywhere. It always melts my heart and makes me miss my Samson. I cannot wait to see him when I get home. However, there are sad situations where I see dogs. A lot of homeless people have dogs, trying to evoke empathy from people and get money. The other day I bought some dog treats and gave them to the person. That poor dog shouldn't starve, and I understand that the homeless person doesn't have to either. But there are homeless shelters for humans, there aren't homeless shelters for dogs.
Something else I have decided is that French children are the cutest little people in the entire world. When we were at the metro stop waiting for Sacre Coeur there was a little French boy who was blowing kisses to the trains and saying "Au Revoir". It was the most adorable thing I have ever seen in the entire world and his voice was so precious. Also, those children are dressed to the T. They wear jeans tucked into boots with sweaters. There are no sweatpants or leggings with matching shirts on these children. So it is decided then. To get my little French child I will be moving here one day.
I love the little neighborhoods in Paris. In the Marais area restaurants and bars are basically in alleys. The roads are so small to walk through, and the sidewalks are entirely too narrow. Everything is so close together and convenient. There are the disgusting smells of trash and urine in certain areas, but in other areas the aroma of pastries, crepes, frites, or seasoned meat encase the air. There are way too many people trying to make their way down the sidewalks, and there are annoying men standing outside of restaurants that try to get you to come in and have a meal. Everything is moving and working like a unit. It's all in sync and so incredibly charming.
A part of the charm I could do without is the horrible service. Since people don't have to tip in Paris the waiters are atrocious. I understand that meals are supposed to last a long time, but at the same time it should not take almost an hour to get an order taken or to get a check. That is one thing I will not miss about Paris. As a server, I appreciate someone who works hard to be efficient, timely and produce quality product. Not so much the case here.
Totally random tangent, but I have a crush on my professor. Move over Mr. Rose, you have been replaced. Sorry for going 70's on everyone, but he is like so dreamy. He is the epitome of what a French man should be. He has the perfect French accent, and a dazzling smile. If only he were a little younger...
It's funny but I wake up and I don't really even think I am in Paris. I mean I know I am here, but this place is starting to feel like home. I know the metro system, I have my places where I go to eat or hang out, and my breath is still taken away every time I see a monument. I know I could wake up every morning here and be happy. I know this to be true, and maybe one day it will be a reality. But for now, I'll just be so incredibly grateful that my parents supported this endeavor, and continue to fall in love with my Paris. Because honestly, I feel a sense ownership with this city now.
Tomorrow is my adventure with Jake, and Wednesday is the Louvre so my next blog post should actually have some real substance. Night everyone.
Something else I have decided is that French children are the cutest little people in the entire world. When we were at the metro stop waiting for Sacre Coeur there was a little French boy who was blowing kisses to the trains and saying "Au Revoir". It was the most adorable thing I have ever seen in the entire world and his voice was so precious. Also, those children are dressed to the T. They wear jeans tucked into boots with sweaters. There are no sweatpants or leggings with matching shirts on these children. So it is decided then. To get my little French child I will be moving here one day.
I love the little neighborhoods in Paris. In the Marais area restaurants and bars are basically in alleys. The roads are so small to walk through, and the sidewalks are entirely too narrow. Everything is so close together and convenient. There are the disgusting smells of trash and urine in certain areas, but in other areas the aroma of pastries, crepes, frites, or seasoned meat encase the air. There are way too many people trying to make their way down the sidewalks, and there are annoying men standing outside of restaurants that try to get you to come in and have a meal. Everything is moving and working like a unit. It's all in sync and so incredibly charming.
A part of the charm I could do without is the horrible service. Since people don't have to tip in Paris the waiters are atrocious. I understand that meals are supposed to last a long time, but at the same time it should not take almost an hour to get an order taken or to get a check. That is one thing I will not miss about Paris. As a server, I appreciate someone who works hard to be efficient, timely and produce quality product. Not so much the case here.
Totally random tangent, but I have a crush on my professor. Move over Mr. Rose, you have been replaced. Sorry for going 70's on everyone, but he is like so dreamy. He is the epitome of what a French man should be. He has the perfect French accent, and a dazzling smile. If only he were a little younger...
It's funny but I wake up and I don't really even think I am in Paris. I mean I know I am here, but this place is starting to feel like home. I know the metro system, I have my places where I go to eat or hang out, and my breath is still taken away every time I see a monument. I know I could wake up every morning here and be happy. I know this to be true, and maybe one day it will be a reality. But for now, I'll just be so incredibly grateful that my parents supported this endeavor, and continue to fall in love with my Paris. Because honestly, I feel a sense ownership with this city now.
Tomorrow is my adventure with Jake, and Wednesday is the Louvre so my next blog post should actually have some real substance. Night everyone.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Have I mentioned I love Paris?
I had another great couple of days in Paris. Yesterday me, Aswini and Sophia braved the weather and went to Sacre Coeur, which is an amazingly gorgeous basilica. But before we went there we stopped at a brasserie where I had the best baguette in the world. The bread was so warm and soft. Emilia was right. She told me that when I was in Paris one slice of bread could change my life. That baguette changed my life. I am going to have to import my bread when I get back to the states. Aswini had this delicious apricot, raisin, and chocolate croissant that again was like heaven. I am going to go back this week to Sacre Coeur so I can read and enjoy more bread!
After the brasserie we went Sacre Coeur where we took the tram up the hill to it. When we got to the top the first thing that took my breath away was the view. You can see the entire city of Paris from that hill. I need to go back there on a day when it is not raining and cloudy. But even with the less than ideal weather, the view was fantastic. I love looking out and seeing a city that isn't filled with skyscrapers.
In addition to the view the basilica itself is awe inspiring. It doesn't really feel like it should be in Paris though. It should be in some Arabian location with Aladdin flying on his carpet with Jasmine. The basilica didn't allow pictures otherwise I would have taken a bunch of them. I did donate 2 euro, light a candle and said a little prayer. No I am not a religious person, but the act of it all is so therapeutic and calming. And there is no harm in it, since according to Luther I am going to hell anyways. After we had walked through the basilica, we decided to head back because of the atrocious weather. It cleared up some in the afternoon and I was able to go running. I had my butt kicked by my run, but it was the good kind. I liked it so much that I went running today, and I am going to take more initiative with it. Also, I love running the different directions and exploring the neighborhood around me.
Last night me, Lauren, Grace and Alex went to the Moose Bar. It is a Canadian bar, and we got to watch some Big Ten football. I missed football, so it was really nice to be able to watch it. I had a pint of cider and a half pint of this amazing beer. That bar is having a halloween party next weekend, so that is where we are going halloween night! When we were done with our drinks we got a crepe and walked around for a while. I was really exhausted so I headed back early, and was able to sleep in today. I am really excited for next weekend when we go to the Catacombe's, Jim Morrison's grave, possibly the sewer museum, and of course the halloween party. I am going to be Pam the vampire from True Blood. Also, this week sometime we are going to go to some more museums. Well, I should be off to finish my reading. Until next time.
After the brasserie we went Sacre Coeur where we took the tram up the hill to it. When we got to the top the first thing that took my breath away was the view. You can see the entire city of Paris from that hill. I need to go back there on a day when it is not raining and cloudy. But even with the less than ideal weather, the view was fantastic. I love looking out and seeing a city that isn't filled with skyscrapers.
In addition to the view the basilica itself is awe inspiring. It doesn't really feel like it should be in Paris though. It should be in some Arabian location with Aladdin flying on his carpet with Jasmine. The basilica didn't allow pictures otherwise I would have taken a bunch of them. I did donate 2 euro, light a candle and said a little prayer. No I am not a religious person, but the act of it all is so therapeutic and calming. And there is no harm in it, since according to Luther I am going to hell anyways. After we had walked through the basilica, we decided to head back because of the atrocious weather. It cleared up some in the afternoon and I was able to go running. I had my butt kicked by my run, but it was the good kind. I liked it so much that I went running today, and I am going to take more initiative with it. Also, I love running the different directions and exploring the neighborhood around me.
Last night me, Lauren, Grace and Alex went to the Moose Bar. It is a Canadian bar, and we got to watch some Big Ten football. I missed football, so it was really nice to be able to watch it. I had a pint of cider and a half pint of this amazing beer. That bar is having a halloween party next weekend, so that is where we are going halloween night! When we were done with our drinks we got a crepe and walked around for a while. I was really exhausted so I headed back early, and was able to sleep in today. I am really excited for next weekend when we go to the Catacombe's, Jim Morrison's grave, possibly the sewer museum, and of course the halloween party. I am going to be Pam the vampire from True Blood. Also, this week sometime we are going to go to some more museums. Well, I should be off to finish my reading. Until next time.
Friday, October 22, 2010
My Parisien Weekend.
Hello everyone. So I didn't go to Barcelona this weekend, didn't want to take the chance with the strike. So instead I switched the credit and now have my Rome tickets for December. I ended up wasting some money, but oh well. My mom reminded me that I can come back to Europe for a long weekend whenever I want, and I think I am going to go to Barcelona and Berlin for spring break! So instead of Barcelona, we are having a Paris weekend, which I am really happy about since in November I am gone for three of the four weekends.
Yesterday we had a final, which was something I am iffy on. I studied really hard for it, and the questions were kind of vague and didn't really cover a whole lot of what we discussed in class. But it is out of my hands now, so I can just hope for the best. After the final me, Grace, Jessen and Lauren went to Musse d'Orangie. At first it was a little disappointing because a lot of pieces weren't actually in the museum, but then I saw Monet's waterlilies and all my disappointment went away. I sat on a bench and stared at the paintings for like ten minutes. The use of color was impeccable. It's amazing how one person can look at a blank canvas and then through paint create a masterpiece that will one day take the breath away from millions of people. After the museum we walked through the Tuilerie gardens, which are so beautiful. I walked through them with my mom on my second day in Paris, and to walk through them again was just as enjoyable.
That night we went out bar hopping, which we have determined is the fun weekend activity to do because if you go during happy hour it makes for a pretty cheap night. So we went to Route 66 first where I got a mojito, which I ordered because my mom and brother make fake mojitos at home and so I though I would have a real one so I can understand what the fuss is all about. It was quite delicious. After that bar we went to this other bar where I had the drink called "After sex". Now for my family members that are reading this (mainly grandma), it is just a name of a drink. It is not a big deal. The bartender at this bar had a crush on my friend Jessen because he came over and started to give her a shoulder massage, which was a tad creepy. Ok, it was a lot creepy. But at this point in time it was almost Grace's 21st birthday so we left and went to a crepe stand where I had a chocolate beignet and everyone else had a crepe. We sang Grace happy birthday and then walked around a bit before heading back home.
I finally got to sleep in, which was amazing. I hadn't got a lot of sleep because of studying for finals, so to get ten hours of sleep was fantastic. Me, Grace, and Lauren went to the modern art museum today. I am totally taking Ashlee there when she visits. There are two floors we can get into with our student cards, and each floor was like its own museum. We spent almost two hours on the top floor, which I loved. I got to see a Salvador Dali painting, which convinced me that I am totally going to go to his museum in Spain. His painting looked like a printed poster. The colors were so pure, strokes so smooth, and it just looked so life-like. He brought the dream world into the realm of reality. There were a lot of Picasso's, which was quite awesome and then were other pieces that were random and spectacular. We took a break after we were done with that floor and got some lunch. I had a brie sandwich, which is my new favorite thing to get at brasseries. I love brie. We sat on a bench and enjoyed our food before we headed back into the museum to tackle the fourth floor. This was the feminist floor, and I must say the entire time I was there I thought of Megan. Megan would have LOVED this exhibit. Some of it was a bit much, but i know that this art is meant to induce shock and awe. What really got me was a video of a woman hula hooping with a barbed-wire hula hoop. She was naked and so you could see the scratches and bits of blood. It was shocking, but it moved me. And really isn't that what art is supposed to do? It is supposed to make one think and question what they know, along with presenting something new and different. Granted, I don't understand self-mutilation to make a point, but just because it is something I don't get doesn't mean it is wrong or that others cannot/should not do it. But there was this one painting, I don't remember the name of it, but it captured me. If my internet didn't suck I would post a picture in this post. There were the faces of two women, which looked photograph like, and there were words written around them. I will post the pictures at school Monday, because seriously this painting was gorgeous. It took us about an hour and a half to finish this floor, and by the time we were done we realized we had spent our entire afternoon at this museum. Isn't that what Paris is about though? Spending a day at a museum, eating at a brasserie, and being with friends? I think so.
But since it was Grace's birthday, of course we had to go out! We went to get falafel and I had some gelato, which was the best gelato I have ever had in my entire life. Then we went to some bars. We had shots at one place, a birthday shot for Grace. I had a No Way!! shot, which was lit on fire so I had to drink it through a straw. It was really cool. Then went to another bar where I had some Scottish beer called Mc Ewans. After that bar, we went to a jazz club where we did some swing dancing and enjoyed a live band. There weren't a lot of young people there, but I danced with my friend Sophia and this old guy who was really nice. He understood that I had really no idea what type of dancing I was doing, and so he just kept spinning me around. It was a lot of fun. When we were done, we went to a crepe stand where I shared a crepe with Sophia and then we headed back.
I like how they do it in Paris. People go out at like 7 or 8 o'clock and get back around 2 am. It is a lot of fun, because you are then able to get up early in the morning and enjoy your day, which is exactly what I am doing tomorrow. I am going to Sacre Coeur and Angelina's tomorrow with friends and this to the Moosehead bar tomorrow night for Cider and to watch some baseball. I am so excited to see the basilica and Angelina's apparently had the best hot chocolate known to man. Thus, it should be another great day in Paris. Well, I am off to bed. Night.
Yesterday we had a final, which was something I am iffy on. I studied really hard for it, and the questions were kind of vague and didn't really cover a whole lot of what we discussed in class. But it is out of my hands now, so I can just hope for the best. After the final me, Grace, Jessen and Lauren went to Musse d'Orangie. At first it was a little disappointing because a lot of pieces weren't actually in the museum, but then I saw Monet's waterlilies and all my disappointment went away. I sat on a bench and stared at the paintings for like ten minutes. The use of color was impeccable. It's amazing how one person can look at a blank canvas and then through paint create a masterpiece that will one day take the breath away from millions of people. After the museum we walked through the Tuilerie gardens, which are so beautiful. I walked through them with my mom on my second day in Paris, and to walk through them again was just as enjoyable.
That night we went out bar hopping, which we have determined is the fun weekend activity to do because if you go during happy hour it makes for a pretty cheap night. So we went to Route 66 first where I got a mojito, which I ordered because my mom and brother make fake mojitos at home and so I though I would have a real one so I can understand what the fuss is all about. It was quite delicious. After that bar we went to this other bar where I had the drink called "After sex". Now for my family members that are reading this (mainly grandma), it is just a name of a drink. It is not a big deal. The bartender at this bar had a crush on my friend Jessen because he came over and started to give her a shoulder massage, which was a tad creepy. Ok, it was a lot creepy. But at this point in time it was almost Grace's 21st birthday so we left and went to a crepe stand where I had a chocolate beignet and everyone else had a crepe. We sang Grace happy birthday and then walked around a bit before heading back home.
I finally got to sleep in, which was amazing. I hadn't got a lot of sleep because of studying for finals, so to get ten hours of sleep was fantastic. Me, Grace, and Lauren went to the modern art museum today. I am totally taking Ashlee there when she visits. There are two floors we can get into with our student cards, and each floor was like its own museum. We spent almost two hours on the top floor, which I loved. I got to see a Salvador Dali painting, which convinced me that I am totally going to go to his museum in Spain. His painting looked like a printed poster. The colors were so pure, strokes so smooth, and it just looked so life-like. He brought the dream world into the realm of reality. There were a lot of Picasso's, which was quite awesome and then were other pieces that were random and spectacular. We took a break after we were done with that floor and got some lunch. I had a brie sandwich, which is my new favorite thing to get at brasseries. I love brie. We sat on a bench and enjoyed our food before we headed back into the museum to tackle the fourth floor. This was the feminist floor, and I must say the entire time I was there I thought of Megan. Megan would have LOVED this exhibit. Some of it was a bit much, but i know that this art is meant to induce shock and awe. What really got me was a video of a woman hula hooping with a barbed-wire hula hoop. She was naked and so you could see the scratches and bits of blood. It was shocking, but it moved me. And really isn't that what art is supposed to do? It is supposed to make one think and question what they know, along with presenting something new and different. Granted, I don't understand self-mutilation to make a point, but just because it is something I don't get doesn't mean it is wrong or that others cannot/should not do it. But there was this one painting, I don't remember the name of it, but it captured me. If my internet didn't suck I would post a picture in this post. There were the faces of two women, which looked photograph like, and there were words written around them. I will post the pictures at school Monday, because seriously this painting was gorgeous. It took us about an hour and a half to finish this floor, and by the time we were done we realized we had spent our entire afternoon at this museum. Isn't that what Paris is about though? Spending a day at a museum, eating at a brasserie, and being with friends? I think so.
But since it was Grace's birthday, of course we had to go out! We went to get falafel and I had some gelato, which was the best gelato I have ever had in my entire life. Then we went to some bars. We had shots at one place, a birthday shot for Grace. I had a No Way!! shot, which was lit on fire so I had to drink it through a straw. It was really cool. Then went to another bar where I had some Scottish beer called Mc Ewans. After that bar, we went to a jazz club where we did some swing dancing and enjoyed a live band. There weren't a lot of young people there, but I danced with my friend Sophia and this old guy who was really nice. He understood that I had really no idea what type of dancing I was doing, and so he just kept spinning me around. It was a lot of fun. When we were done, we went to a crepe stand where I shared a crepe with Sophia and then we headed back.
I like how they do it in Paris. People go out at like 7 or 8 o'clock and get back around 2 am. It is a lot of fun, because you are then able to get up early in the morning and enjoy your day, which is exactly what I am doing tomorrow. I am going to Sacre Coeur and Angelina's tomorrow with friends and this to the Moosehead bar tomorrow night for Cider and to watch some baseball. I am so excited to see the basilica and Angelina's apparently had the best hot chocolate known to man. Thus, it should be another great day in Paris. Well, I am off to bed. Night.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Not much of an exciting post. Sorry.
It's all finalized. I have my planes booked for Dublin, Edinburgh, and London. I am going to Barcelona this weekend with Deepa and my trip for Bordeaux is is all booked. All that is left to do is book the hostels for fall break and then my travel plans for the rest of my study abroad will be complete. Even as I type this, I cannot comprehend that this is my life. I am truly living in a fairy tale right now.
My French class went to the ballet tonight. That was an odd experience. It was not a classical ballet, but rather it was this abstract, performance art. There were parts of it that I found enjoyable, but for the most part I did not really like it. I am more the type who likes Swan Lake or Nutcracker, not random bits of dance that do not fit together. At the end there were live sheep brought on stage, to give you a little bit of an idea of what I had to sit through.
The redeeming quality for the ballet was the view of the Eiffel Tower. I still cannot believe that I can be on public transportation, look outside the window and see that amazing landmark.
I have been preparing for my final Thursday, but honestly it is hard to study. I keep forgetting I have school because I spend my weekends going places and my week nights exploring Paris. Don't get the wrong impression, I have done all of the reading except for King Henry IV (I couldn't for the life of my get through that text), so I should be fine. It is just the idea of a final that makes me nervous. However, after my final it is Barcelona time, so that should take my mind off of anything that I didn't like about the final.
On a good monetary note, I now know I can survive on like 12 euro a week for food. So I am going to start doing that more because of all the trips I am taking. Well, there isn't anything that new to say, I just wanted to get one more post in before I leave. I hope everyone has a great weekend!
My French class went to the ballet tonight. That was an odd experience. It was not a classical ballet, but rather it was this abstract, performance art. There were parts of it that I found enjoyable, but for the most part I did not really like it. I am more the type who likes Swan Lake or Nutcracker, not random bits of dance that do not fit together. At the end there were live sheep brought on stage, to give you a little bit of an idea of what I had to sit through.
The redeeming quality for the ballet was the view of the Eiffel Tower. I still cannot believe that I can be on public transportation, look outside the window and see that amazing landmark.
I have been preparing for my final Thursday, but honestly it is hard to study. I keep forgetting I have school because I spend my weekends going places and my week nights exploring Paris. Don't get the wrong impression, I have done all of the reading except for King Henry IV (I couldn't for the life of my get through that text), so I should be fine. It is just the idea of a final that makes me nervous. However, after my final it is Barcelona time, so that should take my mind off of anything that I didn't like about the final.
On a good monetary note, I now know I can survive on like 12 euro a week for food. So I am going to start doing that more because of all the trips I am taking. Well, there isn't anything that new to say, I just wanted to get one more post in before I leave. I hope everyone has a great weekend!
Monday, October 18, 2010
I amSTERDAM
Wow, there is so much to write, I hope I don't forget it all. Alright. Let's begin.
So we got up at the absurd hour of 4:15 am to get ready so that we could get on the earliest tram to Gare du Nord. As I had slept very little the night before, this was not a pleasurable experience. But I was happy because this was my first train ride ever! It was quite comfortable, and on the platform I felt like I should have been in a Harry Potter movie or something.
When we got to Amsterdam we checked into our hostel, which was no four-star motel, but it was not that bad either. We immediately left the hostel and got bagels which were delicious. It had been too long since I'd enjoyed a bagel and cream cheese. After the amazing bagel we went to the Van Gogh museum. Sadly, the museum didn't allow pictures to be taken, otherwise I literally would have taken a photo of every one of Van Gogh's works. The man saw the world in a way that no one else could, and his painting technique is truly something that is moving. What I was most shocked about was the variety with which he painted with. Sure, I saw the infamous "Sunflower" painting, but I found a deeper appreciation for his more lesser known pieces. Honestly, I could have spent all day in that museum, but between the people all over and my general tiredness, I didn't get to spend as much time as I wanted to.
After the Van Gogh museum we went to the "I amsterdam" sign, where the "I am" is written in red. We took the typical tourist pictures and then went to the Diamond Museum. It was nothing special but pretty cool to look at. Then, we went out for lunch. We ate at a Thai place that was delicious, but when we were looking for somewhere to eat I learned something funny - Amsterdam has no cuisine. They have way too many Asian and Argentinian places, and a slew of American restaurants. But I loved it. Seriously, if I studied there I would gain a ton of weight. I guess the only "cuisine" I could say they had was waffles. I had two chocolate covered waffles in my short time in Amsterdam, and they were absolutely delicious.
Of course their other cuisine is weed. In Amsterdam, there are "coffeeshops" where people are permitted to smoke, drink, eat, and just chill. They are pretty cool places. If I understand the laws correctly, people are not supposed to smoke outside, but of course some people do. However, they are not in large groups being obnoxious about it. Rather, it is just like people who smoke cigarettes. Sure it is more noticeable because of the smell, but really smoking itself is not a big deal. People's perception that Amsterdam is a place where everyone is high is not true.
Something about Amsterdam that is true is their love of biking. It appeared that everyone was riding a bike. The stops lights don't have the walk symbol with a person, but rather have a symbol of a bicycle. It was an interesting sight, because instead of seeing cars parked everywhere there were bicycles. I really wanted to rent a bike and ride around. Seriously, Amsterdam is gorgeous. The canals and architecture are picturesque. Combine this with the trees that are the color of autumn, and it was breathtaking. Tiffany told me that Venice is quite similar to this, and if that is the case then I want to go!
Another observation of Amsterdam is that it is not that touristy. Sure, there are tourist shops, but when we were walking there weren't street vendors trying to get us to buy some trinket and there really weren't that many tourist shops where we were staying. That shocked me because Amsterdam is obviously a tourist location, but I didn't feel like a tourist there.
We did a pub crawl at night, which was an experience. We got t-shirts and went to different bars. After the pub crawl, we went to the Red Light District. It was what I expected. Women behind glass doors, dressed in barely nothing, many with fake breasts, standing provocatively. This culture fascinates me, because it embraces the two things that American culture deems so evil - prostitution and drugs. The perception in America is that drugs and prostitution lead to chaos, or immorality. But really, what is so different from watching some of the HBO shows and going to Amsterdam and watching a sex show? I felt safe my entire time in Amsterdam and I would have wandered around at night by myself if I had to. I am not saying that I embrace prostitution and drugs, but I am saying that just because a society allows it doesn't mean they are immoral or bad people. It is just a different way of life.
Our next day we went to the Anne Frank House, another thing I can cross off my bucket list. It was surreal to be standing in the place where eight people hid and then were captured. The rooms were so small, that I can only imagine how maddening it was to be caged in those rooms. They were rooms that maintained their freedom, but at the same time was their jail. It kept them safe from the Nazi's, concentrations camps, etc. but it also kept them from fresh air. What really impacted me the most was seeing Anne Frank's room. Some of the magazine pictures she had put on her wall were still there, and it really just humanizes everything. Yes, this girl is infamous, but she was a girl. She liked movie stars and boys, and this horrible thing happened to her and her family.
One thing I have to say is that I am spending money at an alarmingly fast rate. But at the same time, when else can I travel to these places? So, I have made a budget so that I should be ok. Sacrifices need to be made so that I can do all the traveling I want to do. But it is happily done. Until next time.
So we got up at the absurd hour of 4:15 am to get ready so that we could get on the earliest tram to Gare du Nord. As I had slept very little the night before, this was not a pleasurable experience. But I was happy because this was my first train ride ever! It was quite comfortable, and on the platform I felt like I should have been in a Harry Potter movie or something.
After the Van Gogh museum we went to the "I amsterdam" sign, where the "I am" is written in red. We took the typical tourist pictures and then went to the Diamond Museum. It was nothing special but pretty cool to look at. Then, we went out for lunch. We ate at a Thai place that was delicious, but when we were looking for somewhere to eat I learned something funny - Amsterdam has no cuisine. They have way too many Asian and Argentinian places, and a slew of American restaurants. But I loved it. Seriously, if I studied there I would gain a ton of weight. I guess the only "cuisine" I could say they had was waffles. I had two chocolate covered waffles in my short time in Amsterdam, and they were absolutely delicious.
Of course their other cuisine is weed. In Amsterdam, there are "coffeeshops" where people are permitted to smoke, drink, eat, and just chill. They are pretty cool places. If I understand the laws correctly, people are not supposed to smoke outside, but of course some people do. However, they are not in large groups being obnoxious about it. Rather, it is just like people who smoke cigarettes. Sure it is more noticeable because of the smell, but really smoking itself is not a big deal. People's perception that Amsterdam is a place where everyone is high is not true.
Something about Amsterdam that is true is their love of biking. It appeared that everyone was riding a bike. The stops lights don't have the walk symbol with a person, but rather have a symbol of a bicycle. It was an interesting sight, because instead of seeing cars parked everywhere there were bicycles. I really wanted to rent a bike and ride around. Seriously, Amsterdam is gorgeous. The canals and architecture are picturesque. Combine this with the trees that are the color of autumn, and it was breathtaking. Tiffany told me that Venice is quite similar to this, and if that is the case then I want to go!
Another observation of Amsterdam is that it is not that touristy. Sure, there are tourist shops, but when we were walking there weren't street vendors trying to get us to buy some trinket and there really weren't that many tourist shops where we were staying. That shocked me because Amsterdam is obviously a tourist location, but I didn't feel like a tourist there.
We did a pub crawl at night, which was an experience. We got t-shirts and went to different bars. After the pub crawl, we went to the Red Light District. It was what I expected. Women behind glass doors, dressed in barely nothing, many with fake breasts, standing provocatively. This culture fascinates me, because it embraces the two things that American culture deems so evil - prostitution and drugs. The perception in America is that drugs and prostitution lead to chaos, or immorality. But really, what is so different from watching some of the HBO shows and going to Amsterdam and watching a sex show? I felt safe my entire time in Amsterdam and I would have wandered around at night by myself if I had to. I am not saying that I embrace prostitution and drugs, but I am saying that just because a society allows it doesn't mean they are immoral or bad people. It is just a different way of life.
One thing I have to say is that I am spending money at an alarmingly fast rate. But at the same time, when else can I travel to these places? So, I have made a budget so that I should be ok. Sacrifices need to be made so that I can do all the traveling I want to do. But it is happily done. Until next time.
Friday, October 15, 2010
“Carpe diem! Rejoice while you are alive; enjoy the day; live life to the fullest; make the most of what you have. It is later than you think.” - Horace
Hello all! I have had a great last couple of days in Paris. I booked my flight to Dublin, and we are planning exactly what we are going to do during 7th week break. So far it is five girls who are going on the trip, which is a perfect number. I can hardly wait! We are going to Dublin, Edinburgh and then London. I know this sounds American, but I am excited to go to countries where they speak English. I know, I know, that is a horrible thing to say. But I'm sorry, I miss the security of walking into an establishment and knowing that there is no possible language barrier. But we are probably going to go to Bath for a day trip. I love that when that trip was mentioned we all immediately thought of Jane Austen characters. Ahh, it is nice to be among University of Chicago students.
Yesterday, we had our French conversation groups. The problem with this is that we have learned minimal French, so it really wasn't so much a conversation as it was just us ordering crepes and talking with our conversation leader. I really wish we were learning verbs and vocabulary words because it would make life a lot easier, but oh well. Later last night we went to the Mix dance club again, which was tons of fun! We got there before there was a super long line, so we didn't have to stand in the cold. I really love dancing, especially with these girls. It is nice to let loose and have some fun.
Today I woke up extremely excited because I got to see Megan. It had been too long since I have since this incredibly important and amazing individual. We met at the Louvre and when I saw her I sprinted into her arms. People were probably looking at me thinking "That crazy American", but I didn't care. I met Ryan, Elizabeth, and Sarah, the people Megan traveled with to Paris. They were extremely nice. We wandered in the Louvre for a few hours. We saw Hamurabi's Code, The Mona Lisa, and a plethora of other pieces. The place is so enormous that I will need to go again to cover it all. One thing that did bother me about the museum was that there was a room where you could see how they store some of the artifacts, and I know I am no expert, but it didn't look like they were being properly stored. Also, I had to yell at an Asian man because he was taking pictures with a flash and the signs posted frequently throughout the museum said that was not allowed. So of course when he took a picture of a painting with the flash I informed him that this was not permitted because it causes harm to the paintings. I hate people's non-existent appreciation for history. True, I was not informed on a lot of the paintings and so my appreciation level for them is not the same as someone who has studied them, but I comprehend that damage can be done and so out of respect I don't use a flash with my camera. Wow that was a long rant.
After the Louvre we went to this brasserie by Notre Dame and I had a Monsieur Croque. It was absolutely delicious. When we were done with our meal I had to say goodbye to Megan. This was truly difficult to do. I loved talking to her and hearing about her trips and adventures. I could have spent the entire day with her and not covered everything I had to say or hear everything she had to say. I cannot wait until I see her again so we can complain about not being in Europe. Both of us love it so much here. I wouldn't mind finding a nice little place and living with Megan. We'd live it up! But alas, such dreams need to be put on the back burner and the reality of the situation must be remembered.
Tonight we went out to this American bar for my friend, Daria's, birthday celebration. This bar had happy hour with 4.50 Euro cocktails, which is SUPER cheap here. I enjoyed a daquiri and frozen B52. It was so much fun to go out and enjoy drinks with friends. After drinks, we had crepes and french fries. I love the crepes from the street vendors. They make them right there, and they are SO good.
And now I await the time for when I need to catch my train for AMSTERDAM! Cannot wait to blog about that experience. Bon weekend!
Yesterday, we had our French conversation groups. The problem with this is that we have learned minimal French, so it really wasn't so much a conversation as it was just us ordering crepes and talking with our conversation leader. I really wish we were learning verbs and vocabulary words because it would make life a lot easier, but oh well. Later last night we went to the Mix dance club again, which was tons of fun! We got there before there was a super long line, so we didn't have to stand in the cold. I really love dancing, especially with these girls. It is nice to let loose and have some fun.
Today I woke up extremely excited because I got to see Megan. It had been too long since I have since this incredibly important and amazing individual. We met at the Louvre and when I saw her I sprinted into her arms. People were probably looking at me thinking "That crazy American", but I didn't care. I met Ryan, Elizabeth, and Sarah, the people Megan traveled with to Paris. They were extremely nice. We wandered in the Louvre for a few hours. We saw Hamurabi's Code, The Mona Lisa, and a plethora of other pieces. The place is so enormous that I will need to go again to cover it all. One thing that did bother me about the museum was that there was a room where you could see how they store some of the artifacts, and I know I am no expert, but it didn't look like they were being properly stored. Also, I had to yell at an Asian man because he was taking pictures with a flash and the signs posted frequently throughout the museum said that was not allowed. So of course when he took a picture of a painting with the flash I informed him that this was not permitted because it causes harm to the paintings. I hate people's non-existent appreciation for history. True, I was not informed on a lot of the paintings and so my appreciation level for them is not the same as someone who has studied them, but I comprehend that damage can be done and so out of respect I don't use a flash with my camera. Wow that was a long rant.
After the Louvre we went to this brasserie by Notre Dame and I had a Monsieur Croque. It was absolutely delicious. When we were done with our meal I had to say goodbye to Megan. This was truly difficult to do. I loved talking to her and hearing about her trips and adventures. I could have spent the entire day with her and not covered everything I had to say or hear everything she had to say. I cannot wait until I see her again so we can complain about not being in Europe. Both of us love it so much here. I wouldn't mind finding a nice little place and living with Megan. We'd live it up! But alas, such dreams need to be put on the back burner and the reality of the situation must be remembered.
Tonight we went out to this American bar for my friend, Daria's, birthday celebration. This bar had happy hour with 4.50 Euro cocktails, which is SUPER cheap here. I enjoyed a daquiri and frozen B52. It was so much fun to go out and enjoy drinks with friends. After drinks, we had crepes and french fries. I love the crepes from the street vendors. They make them right there, and they are SO good.
One thing about today that made me sad was when Megan and I both expressed strong emotions for not leaving Europe. I remember receiving my email from UChicago saying I was accepted into the Paris program. It was during reading period of winter quarter. I screamed, jumped on the bed, texted a bazillion people, and ran throughout my dorm shouting excitedly. I blew off studying for exams so I could take virtual tours of various Paris locations. For the first time in weeks, I was truly happy. I needed that acceptance. I needed something to infuse me with life. And now I am here, living it and loving it even more. It is difficult to imagine going back to the US. In France there are no negative memories or string, but rather I am creating amazing memories that I will cherish with me forever. I know it is early in my program to be writing such things, but after being with friends and having such fun, I don't want it to end. I want to be able to take the Metro to Notre Dame or the Louvre. I want to get a simple sandwich or coffee. I want to continually be surrounded by the beauty of this city.
And now I await the time for when I need to catch my train for AMSTERDAM! Cannot wait to blog about that experience. Bon weekend!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Some pictures
Here are some pictures from my trip for those family members who do not have facebook.
Mom and I in first class
Eiffel Tower!
Notre Dame
Louvre
Clare in front of Chambord
Protest at the Bastille
Falafel!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
“There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest.” - Elie Wiesel
Today was an eventful day. I woke up early so that I could get to Kayser and work on my group project. I had to take the tram because there is a strike by the public-sector workers, and so the RER is closed down. For those of you who know me really well, you know that I have no sense of direction whatsoever. So even though I got mapquest walking direction from the tram to the center, I found myself lost in Paris at 7 am this morning and the credit on my phone had run out. It wasn't until 8:30 am that I reached my destination, scared and frustrated. I treated myself to a lemon tarte for my stressful morning, and vowed to myself that from now on I will reload my phone as soon as it gets low on texts or minutes. I mean I was the very definition of lost. I had no phone, don't know French, and I don't know the general area. But by some miracle I found my way, and at least now I know how to get from the tram to school.
I had my first presentation today in class with a group. We presented on Montaigne, which was difficult to do because he is a stream of conscious writer who contradicts himself every other page. Also, my professor, Philippe Desan, is one of the leading scholars of Montaigne, so there was no way to make up stuff or pretend like I knew what I was doing - I HAD to know what I was talking about. Fortunately the presentation went really well, but I must say that Montaigne's and my professors view that history does not have a lot of credence in our lives is something that I will always disagree with. Without history we would have nothing. History is what we build upon, and without the past, one would keep repeating the same mistakes. Granted there are some mistakes that man will always repeat, but we wouldn't be in the same position today if the knowledge of yesterday was not there.
I want to get back to the strike though. They are striking because there was a raise in the retirement age. This strike was not that new of news to us. We were informed last week that we would have to take a different mode of transportation starting today, and that it was an indefinite strike. I applaud the attitude of strikes here. In Minnesota, there was the nurse's strike and it was a lot of people's opinions that the nurses were wrong. This effected their lives, and so they didn't like it. That is not the case here. In fact, Jake and I went down to the Bastille area today and protested with the strikers and sympathizers. There were no people on the sides of the streets yelling at them and no signs telling them to stop. All we experienced were supportive people. There were children singing songs, concerts on the Bastille, and stickers of all sorts everywhere. And then when we were on public transportation today, we were packed in closer than sardines, but no one was complaining. This is how it should be. In the US the corporations are too big and powerful, which makes it hard for unions to strike because the companies will just bring in temporary workers. It diminishes the power of the union, which is dangerous because corporations already hold a lot of power and often the people who make the decisions that effect the union workers, are so distant from the situation that they do not care who they are impacting. Strikes are a direct and powerful way to voice opinions, but I feel like in the US they have lost some of their lustor.
As for the rest of my day, Jake and I wandered around the Bastille area, saw where VICTOR HUGO lived and ate a falafel that was absolutely delicious. It was fun to just walk around a part of Paris without having time constraints or being in a big group. Well I am off to plan my itinerary for my trips to Edinburgh, Dublin, and London!
Until next time.
I had my first presentation today in class with a group. We presented on Montaigne, which was difficult to do because he is a stream of conscious writer who contradicts himself every other page. Also, my professor, Philippe Desan, is one of the leading scholars of Montaigne, so there was no way to make up stuff or pretend like I knew what I was doing - I HAD to know what I was talking about. Fortunately the presentation went really well, but I must say that Montaigne's and my professors view that history does not have a lot of credence in our lives is something that I will always disagree with. Without history we would have nothing. History is what we build upon, and without the past, one would keep repeating the same mistakes. Granted there are some mistakes that man will always repeat, but we wouldn't be in the same position today if the knowledge of yesterday was not there.
I want to get back to the strike though. They are striking because there was a raise in the retirement age. This strike was not that new of news to us. We were informed last week that we would have to take a different mode of transportation starting today, and that it was an indefinite strike. I applaud the attitude of strikes here. In Minnesota, there was the nurse's strike and it was a lot of people's opinions that the nurses were wrong. This effected their lives, and so they didn't like it. That is not the case here. In fact, Jake and I went down to the Bastille area today and protested with the strikers and sympathizers. There were no people on the sides of the streets yelling at them and no signs telling them to stop. All we experienced were supportive people. There were children singing songs, concerts on the Bastille, and stickers of all sorts everywhere. And then when we were on public transportation today, we were packed in closer than sardines, but no one was complaining. This is how it should be. In the US the corporations are too big and powerful, which makes it hard for unions to strike because the companies will just bring in temporary workers. It diminishes the power of the union, which is dangerous because corporations already hold a lot of power and often the people who make the decisions that effect the union workers, are so distant from the situation that they do not care who they are impacting. Strikes are a direct and powerful way to voice opinions, but I feel like in the US they have lost some of their lustor.
As for the rest of my day, Jake and I wandered around the Bastille area, saw where VICTOR HUGO lived and ate a falafel that was absolutely delicious. It was fun to just walk around a part of Paris without having time constraints or being in a big group. Well I am off to plan my itinerary for my trips to Edinburgh, Dublin, and London!
Until next time.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Observations of Paris
I am sitting here at my desk with the window open and you know what I hear? Nothing. There is silence. It's absolutely wonderful. And in the morning when I get up to go to Kayser bakery for my cafe and perhaps a chocolate croissant, there will also be silence. I love this. I love that in this city, there isn't perpetual noise, but rather the city does sleep.
Another thing about Paris I absolutely adore is its lack of love for technology. When I am on the RER or tram I hardly see people engrossed with their phones. Yes, some people listen to their ipods, but they aren't continuously texting, bbming, and what have you. Rather, they are reading, talking to others or just sitting in a personal meditation. Personally I enjoy looking out the windows. For me, I am overwhelmed with the city and its architecture. There are no skyscrapers or other monstrous buildings. In fact, I have no seen a single home. People don't compete for the nicest, biggest house or the most kept lawn. Rather people live in apartments where they can open their windows, step on a ledge and enjoy a smoke while watching the life of the city. And the architecture is so simple and gorgeous. Even though a lot of the buildings are designed the same, they are done in such an elegant way that it doesn't have the monotony of the suburban homes in the USA. These buildings have character and charm that allows one to forgive theirself for spending abhorrent amounts of money to live there.
But I guess people don't need a lot of living space, since it seems like most people are always walking their dogs, at cafes or walking around. Today me and four girls went to the Saint Michel area and walked around, and then did some reading at a coffee shop. And even though most things are closed on Sundays, the area was bustling with people.
One thing I do need to do is make a budget. I am amazed at how quickly money is being spent. Granted, I am only going to be here for a short while, and how often do these opportunities come? But at the same time, I do need to be responsible and not go through my money like water. So me and some girls discussed making dinner together a couple times a week, which should cut down on some costs.
I am getting excited for Amsterdam this weekend. Mariel and I discussed some of the things we are going to do, and for sure we are going to the Van Gogh museum and Anne Frank's House. Since I am such a self-proclaimed history nerd, be prepared for sappy posts after my trip about the amazing history of it all and how some more of my dreams are coming true. But there is a change of plans for me. Instead of going to Italy for a week, I will be going to London, Dublin, and somewhere in Scotland with Grace and Lauren. And then after my program is done I want to do to Italy for a week with my dad (Please say yes dad!) I am excited for Dublin because that means I will probably get to see Sean! Another piece of good news I received today was that Ashlee is coming to Paris! I am so excited for her to come. I am going to plan an amazing weekend for her.
I also talked to Veasna today which was awesome. I admit I do miss Chicago and all my friends back home, but at the same time I find it hard to think of leaving this city that has captured my heart. I honestly believe I was meant to be born here.
Well all time for bed. Pleasant dreams and until next time.
Another thing about Paris I absolutely adore is its lack of love for technology. When I am on the RER or tram I hardly see people engrossed with their phones. Yes, some people listen to their ipods, but they aren't continuously texting, bbming, and what have you. Rather, they are reading, talking to others or just sitting in a personal meditation. Personally I enjoy looking out the windows. For me, I am overwhelmed with the city and its architecture. There are no skyscrapers or other monstrous buildings. In fact, I have no seen a single home. People don't compete for the nicest, biggest house or the most kept lawn. Rather people live in apartments where they can open their windows, step on a ledge and enjoy a smoke while watching the life of the city. And the architecture is so simple and gorgeous. Even though a lot of the buildings are designed the same, they are done in such an elegant way that it doesn't have the monotony of the suburban homes in the USA. These buildings have character and charm that allows one to forgive theirself for spending abhorrent amounts of money to live there.
But I guess people don't need a lot of living space, since it seems like most people are always walking their dogs, at cafes or walking around. Today me and four girls went to the Saint Michel area and walked around, and then did some reading at a coffee shop. And even though most things are closed on Sundays, the area was bustling with people.
One thing I do need to do is make a budget. I am amazed at how quickly money is being spent. Granted, I am only going to be here for a short while, and how often do these opportunities come? But at the same time, I do need to be responsible and not go through my money like water. So me and some girls discussed making dinner together a couple times a week, which should cut down on some costs.
I am getting excited for Amsterdam this weekend. Mariel and I discussed some of the things we are going to do, and for sure we are going to the Van Gogh museum and Anne Frank's House. Since I am such a self-proclaimed history nerd, be prepared for sappy posts after my trip about the amazing history of it all and how some more of my dreams are coming true. But there is a change of plans for me. Instead of going to Italy for a week, I will be going to London, Dublin, and somewhere in Scotland with Grace and Lauren. And then after my program is done I want to do to Italy for a week with my dad (Please say yes dad!) I am excited for Dublin because that means I will probably get to see Sean! Another piece of good news I received today was that Ashlee is coming to Paris! I am so excited for her to come. I am going to plan an amazing weekend for her.
I also talked to Veasna today which was awesome. I admit I do miss Chicago and all my friends back home, but at the same time I find it hard to think of leaving this city that has captured my heart. I honestly believe I was meant to be born here.
Well all time for bed. Pleasant dreams and until next time.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Overdue - my apologies
Sorry for not posting for a while, but I have been quite busy!
On Wednesday we had a wine tasting at school. We were taught the proper way to observe, smell, swirl, and taste the wine. I learned that I prefer white to red wine. We also learned the proper cheeses to eat with the different wines. It's like the French center their meals around wine, and they truly enjoy it, rather than binge drink or drink it just to drink it. It's truly an art form.
Thursday I went out to this club with a bunch of people from the program. It was a lot of fun. It was international night so there people there from various programs. I met a really great guy, and we talked for an hour or so. Although he was French, he looked German. It was nice to have a conversation with someone, rather than being hit on or thinking that there was an ulterior motive for him talking to me. It is nice to hear that you're beautiful, but when someone says it up front you know they are not looking for anything. I hope I meet more people like him, because he made my night.
On Friday we had an excursion day where we went to Chateau de Chambord and the Royal Chateau de Blois. There are literally no words in the English language that can express my wonderment, amazement, joy, etc. for seeing these buildings. At the Chateau de Chambord I literally ran my hands a long the walls, wondering what they have seen. I know this sounds creepy or cheesy - your pick - but I could just feel the history. These places contain so much that it just overwhelms you. It makes you feel insignificant and worthless, but in the best possible way. Seeing something so grand just puts it all into perspective, and just lets you know that your life is so temporary.
Today I went to the Musee d'Orsay which was amazing. Again, I stared in awe as I was looking at some of van Gogh's works. Too bad I wasn't allowed to take pictures. Later, I went out with Jake and we went into Paris for dinner and drinks. I had escargot today for the first time, and it was surprisingly delicious. Then we walked around and had some drinks. It was a lot of fun.
Well it is late, and so my typing abilities are quite poor right now. Goodnight.
On Wednesday we had a wine tasting at school. We were taught the proper way to observe, smell, swirl, and taste the wine. I learned that I prefer white to red wine. We also learned the proper cheeses to eat with the different wines. It's like the French center their meals around wine, and they truly enjoy it, rather than binge drink or drink it just to drink it. It's truly an art form.
Thursday I went out to this club with a bunch of people from the program. It was a lot of fun. It was international night so there people there from various programs. I met a really great guy, and we talked for an hour or so. Although he was French, he looked German. It was nice to have a conversation with someone, rather than being hit on or thinking that there was an ulterior motive for him talking to me. It is nice to hear that you're beautiful, but when someone says it up front you know they are not looking for anything. I hope I meet more people like him, because he made my night.
On Friday we had an excursion day where we went to Chateau de Chambord and the Royal Chateau de Blois. There are literally no words in the English language that can express my wonderment, amazement, joy, etc. for seeing these buildings. At the Chateau de Chambord I literally ran my hands a long the walls, wondering what they have seen. I know this sounds creepy or cheesy - your pick - but I could just feel the history. These places contain so much that it just overwhelms you. It makes you feel insignificant and worthless, but in the best possible way. Seeing something so grand just puts it all into perspective, and just lets you know that your life is so temporary.
Today I went to the Musee d'Orsay which was amazing. Again, I stared in awe as I was looking at some of van Gogh's works. Too bad I wasn't allowed to take pictures. Later, I went out with Jake and we went into Paris for dinner and drinks. I had escargot today for the first time, and it was surprisingly delicious. Then we walked around and had some drinks. It was a lot of fun.
Well it is late, and so my typing abilities are quite poor right now. Goodnight.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Insomnia Post
I cannot sleep. There must be something wrong with me because I have seriously not been getting enough sleep. Oh well, it presents a good opportunity to blog.
Today was my first day of class, and it went really well. My Civilization professor is going to be great. He has the attitude where the students make their education what they want it to be and it is not his job to force us to do anything. I really prefer professors like that because they don't waste time trying to make students be interested in the class. We went over general information about the class and I am excited to dive into the reading that is for tomorrow. We are discussing usury, which is when you give something to someone but expect more back in return. Funny that was considered a cardinal sin when now it is life. My French class was also great. I wish that I was in the class with all of my other English Civ peers, but at least Casey is in it. I am excited to actually learn French and hopefully one day I can become proficient at it so that I can have semi-coherent conversations with people.
For lunch we went to Kayser's where they sell a sandwich and drink for only 3.5 Euro. So I know where I am going to be eating for the next 10 weeks! One would think it would make more sense to grocery shop, but when you divide the prices up, it isn't really cheaper. Crazy how expensive everything is, but at the same time I feel like people are smarter with their money. They don't let material possessions define them in the way that Americans do. Sure there are bricolage stores that have junk, but usually when you walk into a store the things that they are selling are things that people need, rather than the dollar section like at Target. It is refreshing to be in a culture that doesn't just accumulate crap, but rather gets what they need and is done with it.
After class me and two people went shopping. It was great to look at French fashion and I bought two tops that are adorable. French woman are so classy. They wear clothing that actually fits them, and they do not flaunt their bodies in the ways that so many women do in the US. I am guilty of wearing outfits that are too short or too low cut, but I much prefer to wear a comfortable, flattering top and jeans. I cannot wait to go shopping more in Paris.
Something that I have to mention is that there was a State Department warning given out that a group of jihadists are part of an Al-Qaeda plan to launch terrorist attacks in European cities. I understand the fear that some people may have with this, but at the same time I am tired. I am tired of going to CNN or other news stations and reading about this attack, this bombing, this murder, this threat. I am tired of being told I should be scared or that I need to take these precautions. Before I left and even still while I am here people have been telling me to "be safe". The fact of the matter is, if someone is going to bomb something I have no control over that. If someone is going to walk up to me and demand my money, I have no control over that. I cannot stop my life because of a "what if". What I do have control over is what I do, and I choose to live in Paris the way I always wanted to. I am going to visit all the sites I wanted to. I am going to walk around and experience the city.
Well it is 2:39 am here and I have to be up at 7:30 am. I guess I should try to go to sleep. Bonne nuit everyone.
Today was my first day of class, and it went really well. My Civilization professor is going to be great. He has the attitude where the students make their education what they want it to be and it is not his job to force us to do anything. I really prefer professors like that because they don't waste time trying to make students be interested in the class. We went over general information about the class and I am excited to dive into the reading that is for tomorrow. We are discussing usury, which is when you give something to someone but expect more back in return. Funny that was considered a cardinal sin when now it is life. My French class was also great. I wish that I was in the class with all of my other English Civ peers, but at least Casey is in it. I am excited to actually learn French and hopefully one day I can become proficient at it so that I can have semi-coherent conversations with people.
For lunch we went to Kayser's where they sell a sandwich and drink for only 3.5 Euro. So I know where I am going to be eating for the next 10 weeks! One would think it would make more sense to grocery shop, but when you divide the prices up, it isn't really cheaper. Crazy how expensive everything is, but at the same time I feel like people are smarter with their money. They don't let material possessions define them in the way that Americans do. Sure there are bricolage stores that have junk, but usually when you walk into a store the things that they are selling are things that people need, rather than the dollar section like at Target. It is refreshing to be in a culture that doesn't just accumulate crap, but rather gets what they need and is done with it.
After class me and two people went shopping. It was great to look at French fashion and I bought two tops that are adorable. French woman are so classy. They wear clothing that actually fits them, and they do not flaunt their bodies in the ways that so many women do in the US. I am guilty of wearing outfits that are too short or too low cut, but I much prefer to wear a comfortable, flattering top and jeans. I cannot wait to go shopping more in Paris.
Something that I have to mention is that there was a State Department warning given out that a group of jihadists are part of an Al-Qaeda plan to launch terrorist attacks in European cities. I understand the fear that some people may have with this, but at the same time I am tired. I am tired of going to CNN or other news stations and reading about this attack, this bombing, this murder, this threat. I am tired of being told I should be scared or that I need to take these precautions. Before I left and even still while I am here people have been telling me to "be safe". The fact of the matter is, if someone is going to bomb something I have no control over that. If someone is going to walk up to me and demand my money, I have no control over that. I cannot stop my life because of a "what if". What I do have control over is what I do, and I choose to live in Paris the way I always wanted to. I am going to visit all the sites I wanted to. I am going to walk around and experience the city.
Well it is 2:39 am here and I have to be up at 7:30 am. I guess I should try to go to sleep. Bonne nuit everyone.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Let open the windows and experience la Vie en Rose
These past two days have been amazing. I moved into my dorm Friday and decorated my room. I have pictures lining my shelves and on my wall of my friends and family. I love waking up in the morning and seeing my friends. It is so comforting to know that I have people to come home to. I was going to have a lazy day when I ran into some people from the program. They invited me to go on a late night run to the Eiffel Tower with them, and of course I couldn't turn that down. The Eiffel Tower is so incredibly gorgeous at night when it is lit up, and then when it sparkles. We walked around the area and enjoyed some champagne as we took in the spectacular view. Also, we experience the Eiffel Tower in an Audrey Hepburn circa Sabrina fashion. When Sabrina is telling Linus all about Paris she says "This is what you do on your very first day in Paris. You get yourself, not a drizzle,but some honest-to-goodness rain". We did get some rain, and following more of Audrey's advice i didn't bring an umbrella. I just enjoyed some French rain. After the Eiffel Tower we went to Planet Food, which has American cuisine. I had a cheeseburger and fries. It is this dingy hole in the wall that is really tiny but the people who work there were really nice. The man asked me "Ca va?" and I didn't know what that meant at first, so he told me to say "ca va" or "bien".
The next day we were with the programs all day. We went to the center where we met the professors and had a tour of it. Then some of us went to Starbucks, and even though I didn't want to do anything too American in France, it was nice to have a non-fat vanilla latte. There are some comforts that I want to have every now and again. Some of us also went to Kayser's which is a place I have a feeling I will be frequenting since there is a 2 hour break between my civilization and French class. After that our group went to the History of Paris museum. The museum is the former Hotel Carnavelet which was built in 1548. Our guide said "Every step is drenched in history". I loved that line. Everywhere I go in Paris, amazing history surrounds me and I need/want to always be conscious of that fact. Inside the museum we were given a mini-explanation of the French Revolution, and then after we went for crepes and drinks. I had a crepe chocolat maison and a cafe creme. They were delicious, but I ran for an hour today to work off all those calories. The program also took us out to dinner, where we had this salmon dish (Yes mom and dad I tried salmon), chicken and mashed potatoes, and then some creme brulee and coffee. It was a delicious dinner.
Later that night we went out to Nuit Blanche, which is just a night in Paris when things are open late and there are a ton of people on the streets. Me and three people from the program went to a bar where we enjoyed some wine and then we went to a different bar where we met three Frenchmen. They were nice to talk to, but I think they were disappointed when we didn't invite them back to our place. I am not going to be the stereotypical American girl in France. I am not here to meet someone. If it happens, great, but if not then I can't be disappointed because I am in Paris! They were fun to talk to though and it is nice to be complimented all the time. French men are great for the self-esteem. I am glad that I have met some people who I can hang out with and be myself. One of the hardest things about Uchicago is that I had a hard time meeting people who were more like me, so the fact that this program has more "normal" people and less quintessential "UChicago" people is comforting.
I start classes tomorrow. I am excited and nervous about this. I always get nervous with new professors and new classes, but I am more looking forward to class because we are studying Europe and France. I don't have to do any science or math, thank god. Also, the workload is considerably less than my thousand pages a week I am used to.
Until next time. Cheers.
The next day we were with the programs all day. We went to the center where we met the professors and had a tour of it. Then some of us went to Starbucks, and even though I didn't want to do anything too American in France, it was nice to have a non-fat vanilla latte. There are some comforts that I want to have every now and again. Some of us also went to Kayser's which is a place I have a feeling I will be frequenting since there is a 2 hour break between my civilization and French class. After that our group went to the History of Paris museum. The museum is the former Hotel Carnavelet which was built in 1548. Our guide said "Every step is drenched in history". I loved that line. Everywhere I go in Paris, amazing history surrounds me and I need/want to always be conscious of that fact. Inside the museum we were given a mini-explanation of the French Revolution, and then after we went for crepes and drinks. I had a crepe chocolat maison and a cafe creme. They were delicious, but I ran for an hour today to work off all those calories. The program also took us out to dinner, where we had this salmon dish (Yes mom and dad I tried salmon), chicken and mashed potatoes, and then some creme brulee and coffee. It was a delicious dinner.
Later that night we went out to Nuit Blanche, which is just a night in Paris when things are open late and there are a ton of people on the streets. Me and three people from the program went to a bar where we enjoyed some wine and then we went to a different bar where we met three Frenchmen. They were nice to talk to, but I think they were disappointed when we didn't invite them back to our place. I am not going to be the stereotypical American girl in France. I am not here to meet someone. If it happens, great, but if not then I can't be disappointed because I am in Paris! They were fun to talk to though and it is nice to be complimented all the time. French men are great for the self-esteem. I am glad that I have met some people who I can hang out with and be myself. One of the hardest things about Uchicago is that I had a hard time meeting people who were more like me, so the fact that this program has more "normal" people and less quintessential "UChicago" people is comforting.
I start classes tomorrow. I am excited and nervous about this. I always get nervous with new professors and new classes, but I am more looking forward to class because we are studying Europe and France. I don't have to do any science or math, thank god. Also, the workload is considerably less than my thousand pages a week I am used to.
Until next time. Cheers.
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