Katie la vie en Paris

The last one... in France

2011-04-07T09:38:00.000-07:00

While I am typing this out all I can think about is the daunting task of getting all of my junk into two bags and not having to pay extra luggage fees. But I can’t shake the idea that this is coming to an end. And the fact that if I am packing “junk” then why don’t I just toss it and go. But memories are attached to each item. Each piece reminds me of something special of the time I have spent in France. A time that has shaped and change the person I have become.

While there were days in the beginning I could never imagine making it alive or happy out of the place I had landed. Two years later, I can’t imagine a life any different than the way it is exactly right now. It is fun, adventurous, fulfilling, life changing, and beautiful. I have friends that I love to be with and laugh amongst. I have a job that I understand and can be competent in. I can mostly understand the language, but who needs to communicate fully anyways… I have made myself a life and home in France.

There are so many things I am going to miss about this place. I am going to miss the crazy weather that I always complain about, the long summer days, but probably not the short winter ones. I am going to miss hoping into the city and taking strolls around the city of love. Wearing scarfs daily, having lots of visitors and playing local city tour guide, the small moments where everything comes perfectly together and you know you are exactly where you are supposed to be. And knowing that not everyone gets to live in the moment that I am living right now.

I am so incredibly blessed to have so many great friends and family members who have helped love, pray, and support me through my times of “oops I did it agains” times. When I couldn’t see anything but the mess I was living in. And they helped me get to the place where I see beauty in all things French and living life overseas. I can’t imagine what life would be like, not being here.

Above all else I am going to miss the people. All those who, I spent endless amounts of time with. My roommate, doing nothing but watching tv series on Netflix, dinners at special families homes, greeting hugs and smiles in the office, the new girls who became instant best friends when they arrived in September, and my two special friends who when we met, created our own mini “sex and the city” luncheons- (me being the conservative Charlotte of course;) ). All these people helped make my life and experiences what they were, each adding their own flavor and textures to make the perfect French palate of life.

I can’t pinpoint all the ways I know that I have changed while being here. But I know that it’s true. There is a different feeling deep within me, that I am not the same naive girl who arrived two years ago. But who has been transformed by this place, and that I will forever carry with me all of the lessons and experiences I was fortunate to learn.

Merci tout le monde!

Joyeux Anniversaire!!!

2011-01-10T11:54:00.000-08:00

Today I am celebrating my two years of being a Frenchie!!!

Happy French Birthday to Me!

Bring on the Fromage and Vin! Okay, Okay, Okay... and the Pain too, who am I kidding?

Illuminating into 2011

2011-01-06T03:14:00.000-08:00

This year my roommate and I decided to leave grand ol’ Paris and go across the canal to the great land of London! We spent two days taking in the sites, eating delicious pub food, and walking around the streets.

I had such a great time and know that it was just the beginning of all the great things that are ahead for 2011! I made some observations on how what took place as we rung in 2011 is a foreshadowing of what is to come in the year ahead.

First- We were in London. And what is my favorite thing about London… THEY SPEAK ANGLAIS! English! English! English! So much English to be heard all around. This year I will be transitioning back to the United States, where they also speak English, being in London was perfect to readjust my ears to the English language and a great reminder of the change that is up ahead in the year to come.

One of the greatest things about being in a place where you are fluent in the language, is that you can speak to whoever you want to. And understand everything being said to you, Or… about you as the case maybe. On our way to Westminster a group of friends on entered the underground and while standing talking amongst one another, one of them made the comment, and ended the sentence with, “Stupid Americans.” My roommate and I laughed, and he turned and asked, “You’re American aren’t you?” We then had a five minute conversation comparing the highs and lows of Americans, Italians, the British and the French- all in good fun and humor. After some friendly banter we exited the Underground and walked away with a fun brief conversation with a complete stranger we’ll never see again. I miss having these small interactions. We had so many small insignificant conversations, over our time, but each one filled me with glee. I can’t wait to start having these interactions consistently again this year.

We decided we wanted to ring in the New Year with the firework display London puts on by the London Eye. We stood on the bridge right in front of Big Ben facing the London eye and waited for the show to begin. As we waited we made lots of friends with the people around us and danced to the music playing over the speakers. I think this year with all the changes ahead, I am most looking forward to the new people I will meet, and even more spending time with those friends so near and dear to me and all the fun we will have fun together.

At the stroke of midnight with the chimes of Big Ben ringing, the sky lit up with a 10 minute firework show sparkled the sky. As I enter to this new year- while I don’t know exactly what will all take place with year, I am sure it will be like a firework show, new and exciting, moving forward and illuminating my life with great things ahead.

I am looking forward to this year ahead and all the places that it will take me. I had a great time with my roommate in London for New Years, and I can’t wait to see all the great things that this next year has to bring!!!

The Train to No Where

2011-01-05T05:32:00.000-08:00

We all make wrong turns, get lost. But somehow, when you live in a country that doesn’t speak your same language you seem to find yourself in more of these situations… than say when you are in the town you grew up in.

Last week my family and I were headed to London for a trip of bonding, memories, and discoveries. We were planning on taking the Eurostar to get from Paris to London. This is the best way to get to London from Paris. Two hour train ride and you are dropped off right in the center of the city.

The key is, you must first get to the train station, that takes you to the train, that goes to London. On any normal day, this would probably be a simple task to accomplish. Like anytime I do anything in France, I give myself extra time to arrive at the train station. I have learned that nothing goes as smoothly as originally planned- and simple tasks quickly become more than I bargained for.
I had it set. We would wake up and catch the 7:00 am train to Gare de Nord. From there we would take the escalator up two levels and arrive at Eurostar and take the train to London at 9:00 am. Plenty of time and arrive blissfully in London at 10:00 am. I could see Big Ben already.

Our trip started out exactly as planned we boarded the train from my town and headed to the city. Forty minutes later we arrived at Chatelet les halles. When we arrived, everyone who was left on our cart, exited the train. This was very normal for this stop. It is a main stop in the center of the city, with lots of connections so it would make sense, for all the people to have exited the train. While my family sat there for a few minutes waiting for the train to depart, I briefed them that we only had one train stop left till we arrived at our stop.

The train doors closed and the train began moving once again. The only problem was the train was now going in THE WRONG DIRECTION!

The train began moving backwards ! “Stop! Stop! Stop!” I yelled as my entire family of 6 begins trying to push our luggage through the narrow seats and make it to the train doors. The train is moving faster now and is in the land of nowhere and utter darkness. It doesn’t pull up to a stop continues to go out to the middle of nowhere. “ To the place where trains go to die.”

As I begin to panic and my family is looking at me for what to do- I wonder where the heck we are going, and how the heck we are going to get back to where we need to be? I see a red box with the words “Emergency” and decide that this is my emergency and pull the switch!

The conductor comes on to the intercom and we have a conversation something like this:

Conductor: “C’est Qui?” (Who’s there?)

Moi: “ STOP! STOP! PLEASE PLEASE STOP!”

Conductor: “Quoi?!?” (What?!?)

Dad: “MONSIEUR! MONSIEUR! Stop the train! STOP THE TRAIN!!!!!!”

Conductor: “Ce n’est pas possible. Cinq minutes. (it’s not possible. 5 minutes)

Moi : “Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease stop the train. Unless you are going to London, which I highly doubt you are. We are going to miss our train to London. “

Conductor: “C’est n’est pas mon problème” (That’s not my problem)

Moi : What do we do ???

Conductor: “Cinq minutes.” (5 minutes)

We stand waiting impatiently and in wonderment on where this train is actually headed and when will it come to a stop. After probably 5 minutes, though it seemed like an eternity and that we were so far away from our train to London, we mine as well have been in Germany- the train came to a stop.

The train coming to a stop at a platform would have been too much to ask. But because our train was taken to the train grave yard- we were stuck with 6 people, 6 suitcases, train tracks and lots of snow to be trudged upon.

We finally met the fate of facing our conductor, who leads us through the land of nowhere, to another train station, stopping along the way to fill up his coffee cup, and chat with a pal or two along the way. He ensured us we have 5 minutes till the next train would come so we had time. We make it to another platform; the signs say the next train is headed to Gare de Nord. Our original destination of choice.

We make our way to Gare De Nord. This time on a train that actually went to Gare de Nord, not to the place where trains die, and began our process of customs, to be cleared to enter the British land. Customs was full of passport stamps, forms, and metal detectors. We are running for the train platform just as the train is closing its doors and pulling away.

We missed the train.

Thankfully we were put on standby and able to catch the next train leaving in an hour for London. Exhausted, I sit and wait for our next train. I couldn’t wait to get to the land where everything I saw I could read, and where every word spoken I could understand. Let’s just hope this train actually goes to the center of London- and not to the place that we no longer speak of.
All Aboard!

*this story is not my own, I took the account and wrote it on behalf of my beloved friend and her experience this past weekend.

New Year- New Changes

2011-01-05T03:33:00.000-08:00

There have been lots of people this week asking, “so, what’s your new years resolution?” New Years resolution!?!?! What? How can I possibly be expected to make a new years resolution. A choice to make something new and different with my life, like spend less money, work out more, floss, when I know that this year, I must decide the rest of my life! So many changes are on the horizon I possibly cannot fathom coming up with another conscious choice of change.

The official countdown to me leaving France has begun. Dun nun nun nuuuuu.

I will be moving back to the United States on March 31st. That’s 3 months, 12 weeks, 84 days, 11 hours, 56 minutes and 52 no 51, wait 50, okay 49 seconds.

I remember the times with I longed for my departure to be this close. And now that second by second it is getting closer and closer I am overwhelmed with the idea of leaving. When I left the states I was not really sad to be leaving, but excited for the new adventure I was about to embark upon. I knew that my friends and family- while I would missing them greatly, would be there. However, with Leaving France, I know that once I board my final flight out of Charles De Gaulle and head for San Diego, that I am not just leaving my home that will always be there, but leaving a chapter of my life.

While parting with France is heartbreaking, for I have truly fallen in love with the country, people, and my life here. I am curious to see what is around the corner and all the God has in store for me next. Will I return to the states and find a job? Love? A place to live?

My first year here in France I was given my dream job, travel, conference planning, learning French- but what will I do next? I literally have no idea. I wish I had a direction to go in next, and maybe I have some ideas, but none of them quite seem practical. How do you move forward, when you don’t know where you are to go?

Oh Paris, the land of Romance, love, where every girl who walks along the cobble stone roads falls passionately in love with the charming French men. BLAH! While the city it’s self is romantic and charming, the men are what I refer to as poodles. Much too small for liking. And while they are all persistent, in the summers they also tend to smell, unless they are the kind that take longer than me to get ready. So while I haven’t found the love of my life here in France I am hopeful to find a boy back home.

While my parents truly have won the greatest parents awards over and over and over again these last two years in being so supportive of me, I know that living in their home is not the support I will need for a life time. Moving back, I am so thankful they have offered to let me stay at their place, but I don’t want to over stay my welcome and need to find a place to live, before it expires there.

There is lots of change on the horizon in the year ahead. I am really hoping that I land on my feet, back in California. That the sunshine brings with it, the fulfillment of a great job and a great man to spend the rest of my life with. I feel that the choices and paths that I take this next year, could directly impact the rest of my life. And that reality- is both invigorating and terrifying.

12 months in one Post.

2010-12-29T12:54:00.000-08:00

While I am daily aware that I am not posting, it wasn’t until today while talking with my roommate that I realized how much I am missing by not blogging. Writing me memories down here has been so great for me in helping me process my time, a time keeper of memories, and a journey to share with everyone.

I was looking through a daily 14 year old French News paper I received called L’actu- to help my French. Today’s paper was the typical paper that comes out at the end of the year that went over all of the important events that have taken place in the last year. I became sentimental thinking of all the great things that have happened this year, and then the roomie and I decided to do a play by play through the months.

The only problem was… I couldn’t remember any of them. Ugh. And all I could think was, “if only I had fully kept my blog updated like I did the first year, I could remember much easier.” This is the fault of me alone. Literally. Because you readers have been great at reminding me to continue to post or asking for more posts.

So I am going to try to give a brief re-cap of the big moments that occurred for me this year to see what I can remember. Rather than the lessons learned on a whole that are sure to be posted sooner or later.

January- the hardest month of my existence here in France- lost my wallet, crashed a car that I couldn’t fix, and bills pilled up and no cards to get money from. Ugh.

February- Headed to Spain where I realized I was NORMAL. I met lots of 20-somethings serving around the world like me, who interacted with cultures that weren’t American and had many of the same struggles no matter where they were placed. oh and they carried small bibles, wore rainbows, and carried re-useable waterbottles. Apparently marks of our generation.

March- Trip to Lebanon and Jordan. Fell in love with the people there, and so greatful to work with such incredible people.

April- YEA! A Roommate and a 20-something in France with me. I got to laugh hard once again- and about nothing at all.

May- After a year and a half of being apart- my two Besties came to visit and a boyfriend too. (not mine, my best friends boyfriend.) So great to hangout with them and show my life to them. Realized it’s normal to get overwhelmed by foreign things as I coached them through life and driving in France. Oh and stayed in the most smelly hotel. Literally like sleeping in a porter potty. Uck.
My friends leave and world cup begins! It was a fiasco for the French but a blast for me and my friends.

June- VISITORS. The roommate had 7 people at once overlapping with a visit from my mama and her Sistas. The Sistas were crazy as ever, but the French just simply adored them and their free loving nature. We went to the south of France, stayed in a B&B, where the heat bug made lots of noise, but its okay cause they stop when it’s below 25 degrees Celsius which happens around 9:00 at night. We also got lost on many small dirt roads thanks to Lola.

July- Yea USA!!! In the middle of July I packed my bags and headed home for my first real trip back to the states since arriving in France. I first stopped in Texas, and saw a wonderful family friend, and enjoyed the “everything is bigger in Texas” way of life. After a few days of hot hot hot heat, I headed to Cali- the land of friends, family, sand, and sunshine!

August- Man what a great month this was! Meeting with Supporters, nightly fires at Kevin and Bob’s, catching up with friends, and best friend hangouts ever week. Every convenience I have ever loved, back in my life, but mostly so thankful for all the loved relationships I have there.

September- Back to my Wonderland. I headed back to Paris, unsure why, but never happier to return. Re-entry to Paris was greater than I expected and the best decision I ever made. The new Stint Team of 5 people arrived and I was busy busy busy helping them adjust. I fell in love with my new teammates and so happy that all of my crazy experiences came turned into knowledge, to help them navigate living in France.

October- Crazy month of work. A last minute trip to Orlando, where I received training that will hopefully help me throughout my life. I loved the training, and am now curious to see how it will be used from here.
Quickly followed by a Two week conference in Turkey. 3 conferences all at the same time. Chaos. But loved every second of sunshine the country was able to offer. Which was essentially only seen during meals. All in all I think I was in my apartment 2 days this month.

November- Was still in Turkey for part of this month. Returned and Thanksgiving was on the horizon.I think there were 3 thanksgivings in 3 days. In France. I don't think I have ever had that many in America in one weekend. And our Turkey's were brought in from the states- love those butterball turkeys. yum.

December- A team trip to Switzerland. Yes 7 people in a car the size of a Toyota, Corolla. With sleeping gear. You do the math. It was cramped.
Oh how I love the holidays. We made cookies for our neighbors, and I once again was given the gift of spending Christmas with the greatest French family in Bourges des Comptes. I love this family and am so blessed to share special days with them.

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

2010-10-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

I have had to take A LOT of personality tests lately. No… I am not crazy. (Well not diagnosed as crazy anyways.) Rather, for the sake of team building purposes, I have had to take a wide variety of tests, to narrow down me as a person. What are my strengths and weaknesses , what do I like, what don’t I like, what’s my ideal career, do I laugh one someone one falls, and a whole array of questions and assessments- analyzing who I am.

Well, after a final breakdown of the last flood of personality examinations I have found my ideal career. The only problem is… I retired from this career when I was 15. Can you go back in time and repeat? Or was my career between the ages of 10-15 and the rest of my life is mere survival with no opportunity to use who I am? Oh the tragedy and turmoil when I wrestle with this as being over my career prime.
What is my perfect profession that I have so mistakenly let pass me by???

CHEERLEADER!!!!!

All of the tests have said the same things over and over again. Surprise Surprise. I am after all, the same person taking the tests. But according to “Strength Finders,” my top five strengths have me perfectly built to be a Professional Cheerleading Captain to be exact.

1. Arranger- It takes one mighty skilled cheerleader to arrange the dance and cheer choreography. To perfectly match the heights and strengths of stunt partners. And more importantly on what syllable are you to stomp and shake it, or hit a “high V” rather than a fist pump. This is not something that comes naturally. Well… unless you are an arranger like me. Then you don’t get overwhelemed with having line transformations in the middle of a chant. WOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

2. Positivity: Is this not the epitome of what a “CHEERleader” is for? To pump pump pump it up! When the crowd is feeling down and blue about the score board. We shout out, “That’s okay, That’s alright, come on Team, FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT!” WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!

3. Woo: WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Spirit Fingers! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

4. Includer: The job of a cheerleader is to not just pump up the team and keep them going, we are the spirit behind the lines, to keeping the players motivated. However, it is also our responsibility to pull the crowd into the game. Getting the crowd active, in the fight to win. Chants of Offense and Defense and team names, are what get the team motivated, and in it to win it. It takes the cheerleaders invitation to get the crowds participation. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

5. Activator: If it weren’t for an activator on a cheer squad all you would have is a bunch of tight high pony tails in mini skirts, lined up in a pyramid formation, for no good reason, other than looking good. Thanks to the Cheer Captain or “activator” they ensure more happens than standing straight with fists on their hips. They shout, “READY?” for the rest of the squad to respond, “OKAY!” and thus the cheer of appropriate need will commence. WOOOOOOOOO WOOOOO!

If only I had known then, that I was in my perfect job fit, I never would have stopped. I suppose, I now know, what I will need to do when I return home. It’s time for me to start stretching and practicing my high kicks, so I am prepared to audition next spring for the Charger girls!

After all, I only want to work out of the way I was created and out of my strengths.

*Disclaimer- it is not appropriate as a cheerleader to WOOOOOOOOOO. It is rather encouraged to use words than sounds when pumping up the crowd and team

Bourse Aux Velos

2010-10-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday in Paris was a day to be remembered. It was the day I bought a pair of wheels for transportation. Now naturally you would probably be thinking I bought a car. But no. Even better. I bought a bike!

The ladies and I trekked into Paris for the annual Bourse Aux Velos, held each year in the 13th district of paris. The way it works is, those who own bikes and don’t want them, come in the morning and drop them off with a price in mind. Then in the afternoon those seeking two wheels and a pair of peddles for transportation, show up and find themselves a bike, on a first come first serve basis. Then those who turned in a bike, show up at night and either collect their cash, or their unpurchased bike.

There were all varieties of bikes to be found, from little tike bikes, to mountain bikes, city bikes, broken bikes, rusted bikes, tandem bikes, road bikes, and MY NEW BIKE.

The key to this bike sale is to get there early- so you can get the best selection. (Thus the first come first serve protocol.) We weren’t there first. But we didn’t get there last either. Once they opened the rope for us to pass through, it was like a mad dash Black Friday style to find the best bike for the cheapest price.

The Ladies are making their search for the perfect bike

The trick was in finding a bike you like and holding onto it, while exploring other options encase there was a better deal or bike to your liking. Have you ever tried holding onto one bike, while test riding another? With 40 other people vying for a bike? It makes for quite the scene.

The roomie is testing her first bike of choice

After making our dibs on bikes, getting adjustments made to ensure the seats actually do move down and aren’t permanently lifted too high. Imagine buying a bike, and then finding out it’s welded to a precise height. No more peddling for you my dear friend. And handle bars so low you could touch the floor- people would think you are in a rap video rather than riding your bike. Or maybe you are riding your bike Flo Rida style. Thankfully neither of the above situations took place for our biking crew.

Our bikes of choice right before going to purchase them.

We purchased our bikes, all one happy biking clan and headed home with six bikes for six girls.

Brugge-Stint Style

2010-10-02T02:19:00.000-07:00

This last week the 5 Newbies, the Roommie and I went to Brugge, Belgium as a way to take time together as a team and get to know one another, and figure out how in the world this next year is going to function for all of us, and all together. After all, we are:

Taking 7 strangers, who were picked to live together, work together, and have their lives blogged and photographed- STINTWORLD Paris Style!

The Team!

Our time together was spent in Brugge. A lovely quaint little town in Belgium. As my friend Amy would say, “It slaps you with cuteness.”

It is candy for the eye in every direction that you look. Literally- there are streets filled with chocolate shops. Everything is so picturesque it almost looks fake. But you know it’s real- and the way the life was meant to be in this small little town that caters to horse and carriage.

And what would a quaint town be, without floating swans.

Many believe due to the name that French fries come from… France. But they are wrong. They actually belong to the Belgium’s, and when ordering you should ask for Belgium fries not French Fries- but whatever you do, be sure you indulge in some wonderful fries.

Picture taken by Teammate Hannah

The roads of the town are built all out of cobblestone- you won’t find a paved over road in this town. And streets are narrow and mainly built on the one-way direction system. This is highly inconvenient with construction and driving. Thus it is much more efficient and fun to take your bike and ride it all around town.

When you are ready for a nice a relaxing treat find a cute café and order a coffee and Belgium waffle- also known as a waffle- and watch people as they walk by.

This trip was a great start off on the right foot. We all got along together wonderfully and got started in the right direction for a year full of fun, memories, and experiences we will all remember for a life time.

5

2010-09-21T15:20:00.001-07:00

Today I picked 5 people up from the airport. I picked up 5 people who are starting out on their own French adventure. 5 people who will get to grown and learn more about themselves, France, and life then they ever imagined.

I have known these five people would be joining my office for some time now. I have been excited for their arrival, for the most part because they are close to my age. However, today, a new excitement overcame me. One that makes me feel alive and a part of the French life. Today I was given the gift to give back all that has been given to me.

I was able to drive them around, get them settled into a temporary place to stay, walk them around like zombies when all they would want to do is sleep or cry. I was able to give direction to the directionless, and know that one day, sooner than they expect… they will be able to do this all on their own. I got to make them a meal and send them off to bed. And I got to dream, to dream about all that will come about for them in this next year.

I am excited for 5 new people. And the 5 new influences on my time here, learning, living, and loving in France.

Goodbye and Hello

2010-09-17T06:42:00.000-07:00

The day before leaving I had the most incredible day, Filled with sunshine and a nice bike ride down The Pacific with a good friend. While cruising down the strand, all I could think was that life couldn’t get any better than that moment. The sky was a bright blue, with scattered puffy blue clouds, sounds of the ocean crashing played in the back ground, while my bike bell jingled and greeted those we passed by. While wearing a fun causual summer sundress, the smell of SPF lingered on my skin leaving the perfect scent of summer. The wind was blowing in my hair and left me feeling free from everything except my cherry red beach cruiser. It was perfection.

Flashforward to the next day when I landed in Paris. All the wonderful people at home imagine me in the center of the beautiful city, the Eiffle tower sparkling bright, and who could forget Notre Dame! (I mean, of course you see these out of the window of the plane when you land 40 minutes out of the city.) So imagine to my suprise when I landed and the first thing I see out the plane window is... a down pour of rain. I suppose it's time to trade in those flip flops for my parapluie (umbrella).

Good bye summer tan- Hello frizzy hair!

Chosing Thankfulness

2010-09-09T20:27:00.000-07:00

Everyday since my return to the grand USA has been filled with overflowing Joy, love, and appreciation for my life here. And with 5 days left the reality of my leaving becomes ever present in my life.

When I was in 7th grade someone gave me a card with this quote on it

“I am convinced that life is 10% of what happens to us and 90% of how we react to it.”
– Charles Swindoll

I have quoted and recalled this line many times throughout my whole 26 years of life and really believe in what this quote represents. Whenever I catch myself not wanting to return to France, one of my first reasons is because here life is so, “easy.” It just works, I understand it, I can work the systems, and it clicks without breaking invisible boundaries I never knew could exist.

However, we have never been called to a life of Easiness… We have been called to live a life of thankfulness. After this realization, Today I decided to meditate today on the things that I am thankful for not just here in my “easy” life, but also in the place where I am continually stretched and grown into the woman I am to be.

- I am thankful for the hard times, because they have taught me how to be stronger.
- I am thankful for the lonely times, because they taught me a new level of self-confidence and worth.
- I am thankful for the places I get to visit, not because of the magnificent views and world monuments I see, but for the people I meet, and the stories I know.
- I am thankful for my first French friend I met in Dance class, who just thinking upon her brings a smile on my face and what a blessing that friendship will always be.
- I am thankful to know what a real croissant should taste like, cause the one’s here simply do not cut it any longer.
- I am thankful for the families that took me in and had me over for dinner and made me part of their family when mine was so far away.
- I am thankful for the opportunity to still be a part of the French community and for those who know who I am. My produce guy, my boulangerie woman, and my herb lady- I look forward to continuing to growing relationships with all of them.
- I am thankful for the ability to intricately know the streets of Paris and my small town, that I am not forever lost, but know the back streets- as much as I know the streets to the place I have always called home.
- I am thankful for all those who have loved me enough to let me go, and to support me through all my time away, and prayed for me throughout the journey.
- I am thankful for the ability to live an exciting life adventure and to take people on it with me.
- I am thankful I am returning to a place I know, a language I am competent enough in, and a roommate to have shared experiences with.
- I am thankful to have the ability to continue to learn French through emersion.
- I am thankful of not knowing the adventures that lay ahead, but have the firm foundation to believe whatever happens, I have been prepared thus far to handle whatever situation comes my way, and to have the confidence in knowing God never gives us anything we cannot handle.
- I am thankful to have had this time home, to restore and go back to see Paris, and do ministry well.
- I am thankful for the reminder that attitude is everything, and the opportunity to practice.
- I am thankful for every supporter who believes in what I am doing and having the summer to share with each of them.
- I am thankful for each person who reads my blog and follows my journey along the way.
- I am thankful for the life I have been given, the ability to live out my dreams, and the expectancy of what growth and greatness exists in the year ahead.

I am going to chose thankfulness and through the process of choosing to be thankful watch the fruit of easiness bloom into my life abroad.

Where's Katie?

2010-08-12T16:54:00.000-07:00

I have heard from quite a few people that they are sick of seeing my Bon Dimanche posting every time they come to my blog- disappointed that there is no new posting. I am flattered that I have regular visitors to my blog and thus thought for those who want more, the least I can do is provide a post.

In my defense of not posting, my blog is about my life in France. And well… currently I am not in France. In fact, I am as far away from France as I could possibly ever be. Okay maybe not exactly… as far physically. But I am the furthest I have been physically in the last two years, and I am mentally so check out of the French world it is insane.

It has been so absolutely wonderful being home. Home is home. I knew I loved Dorthy as a child, but I never understood her words as profoundly as I do not when she says… “There’s no place like home.”

My brain is loving up the English language. I do my best to try to think in French every once in a while and it is impossible. Absolutely impossible. My brain refuses. A friend and I watched a movie the other night and half of it was in French, and it even took me a moment to let it sink in that I was understanding the words they were speaking. I honestly believed I shouldn’t be. Because… well because I only speak English. I love the on demand “say something in French,” requests I get… and simply sputter out a “'Bonjour,' 'Merci,' 'Au Revoir'” The basic words they would already know, and await the amazed looks. (They have yet to come!) But it is impossible to explain to people the level of French I can speak- so I think they believe I really can only say hello and goodbye. Not actually accomplish anything real. But that’s alright.

In all actuality I have had a really difficult time perceiving the last two years of my life have been real. You know the part in the Wizard of Oz when Dorthy awakes from her magical world and tries to explain where she was, and points to her friends saying, “you were there, and you were there, and you were there…” but ultimately she is left in a confused state. Many times that’s what I feel like I am doing. Waking up from a dream where a few people made a cameo, but mostly everything in my natural world is different from the place I have just been and been transformed by.

Yesterday I cried for the first time about the thought of leaving California going back to France. I will truly miss leaving home once again. But I am also very excited to get back to France and my life there. This is my once chance and opportunity of something so unique and wonderful in my life. I am blessed to live in such a fabulous place, and be at a place where I am thriving in a foreign country. I am excited to see what the Frenchies are going to teach me in the year to come and excited to reunite with the friends I have there. To know that they are all real and not just some figment of a quite vivid two year dream.

I will be returning to France and blogging soon!

A Bientot!

Bon Dimanche

2010-06-27T06:08:00.000-07:00

I can’t state how much joy my Sunday market brings me. But it should be obvious to the readers because I feel like I mention it often. I want to blog about it every Sunday because every Sunday it brings me something refreshing. I am always learning something new, whether it’s about what is in season when, discovering a new food I have never seen before, or having the opportunity and time to practice my French with the Locals. I love that I have vendors who know me and greet me each Sunday- and who notice when I haven’t been around for a while, or comment that I got too much sun the day before (an impossibility here if you ask me.)

This Sunday, nothing out of the ordinary particularly happened, but I want to share my experience – to document it, so that I may never forget the joy it brings to me. Today is a beautiful sunny day. The walk down the cobble stone street that leads to the main market road was sparkled with people carrying baskets of fresh produce back to their flats. The line at the “Coeur de Pain” (Heart of bread) boulangerie was out the door with people waiting to get their baguettes to accompany their family Sunday meal. And on the corner the tabac was filled with men sipping their cafes probably discussing the events of this last week.

My first stop at the market is always the produce stand. Here there is a young French guy who typically helps me, or was the first person I interacted with and he patiently helped me get through the proper pronunciation of French produce. There is an older man with a mustache who is always smiling, and a quaint woman who always walks around to the waiting patrons and offers samples of fruit, “Fresh cantaloupe! 1 euro, Lovely Strawberries 2 euro per kilo.” My next stop is generally to the woman who sells herbs. I like her a lot. Today was the first time we talked past what I actually wanted- my typical order each week is either Basil or Coriander (Cilantro)- however today I stepped out of the box and tried something new.

I am not sure if it because it is summer- the beginning of the new season, but today I discovered many new foods I had never seen before. Not only discovering new foods was part of today’s fun, but also the delight of picturesque colors displayed on all the cherries, strawberries, peaches, and nectarines, they are like a bright floral arrangement of fruit, bursting with flavors of bright colors.

In celebration of the new goods from today, I want to highlight three of my indulgent purchases today. Two are new goodies to try and one is and oldie but a goodie- but tastes more extravagant than ever before. I am so sad I cannot put a sample on my blog for you to try, but can only tempt and tease you through the pictures and writings. Today I bought- some type of exotic Mushrooms, Nectarines, and Coco Haricots- but I have no idea what they would be called in English.

Last week there was an abundance of new mushrooms on display- I was tempted then, but resisted. However this week I went to the market in pursuit of mushrooms. When I made it to my herbs lady who had on display about 5 different types of mushrooms- I asked her what the difference was between them, and she said they were all really different, it depended on what I wanted to make. I explained that I had no idea, this was my first time, but they looked all so beautiful I wanted to try some. She pointed out the mushrooms pictured and said they would be easiest.

They also happened to be the ones I was eyeing last week. She then instructed me how to prepare them and gave me a free bunch of chives to sauté the mushrooms in. I can’t wait to try them- I love the shapes and colors of these- I am interested to see how they change form when cooked, and what aroma they will fill my apartment with.

Last week I bought a half kilo of Nectarines and regretted it all week long. Why in the world would I have deprived myself? These Nectarines are one of the best things I have ever enjoyed in my life. The color of the skin is like a perfect Californian sunset and the flesh inside is as bright as the sun on a clear day. The bursts of flavor overtake your senses and is the purest taste of a perfect summer one could enjoy.

In response to only buying a half kilo of nectarines last week- this week I bought 4 kilos (8 pounds) of nectarines. Obviously I cannot eat 8 pounds of nectarines in a week- but the plan is to chop some up and freeze them to be enjoyed all year long. Genius I know!

And finally- the most exotic award goes to my coco Haricots. I have never seen these before but was intrigued as soon as I saw them. I have no idea what they will taste like or what the texture will consist of? Will it be like a kidney bean or will it be like a snap pea? I initially thought the color of the shell was pretty the gentle wisps of purple color.

But then the guy helping me opened up the shell and inside was 5 pearls of speckled jelly bellies. My friend Andrea was talking about how much creativity God used when giving us food and when I saw this, I thought of Andrea, and am interested to see what this creation will bring to my palate once perfectly prepared. I was told to unshell the jelly belly contents into lightly boiling water for 40 minutes, what I forgot to ask was what I should make with them. But here’s to trying new things.

Overall, today’s market experience was a success. I was able to collect a plethora of goodies to be enjoyed throughout the week. I was able to have good conversations in French not only about the food but able to learn more about those who help me week after week, and reconfirming the relationship with my hosts. I am so lucky they are able to share their knowledge and nutritional treasures with me. I am excited to have something new to try to make and taste throughout the week. Hopefully I will follow their instructions properly and have successful stories to share with them next week.

Bon Dimanche! (Happy Sunday!)

She's Headed Home- and Oh So Excited

2010-06-27T04:46:00.001-07:00

In one month I will be getting ready to board a plane and headed to the land of the free and free refills! So I have decided to make a list of things I am oh so excited about! So in no particular order….
1. Free refills
2. Family!
3. Friends!
4. Fun
Okay enough F’s already
5. Mexican food!
6. Seeing friends who are pregnant or gotten married in the last year and a half and celebrating with them.
7. Runs on the beach
8. Seeing supporters and sharing with them
9. Spending time with a close family in Texas.
10. Being in my own home
11. Driving on large streets
12. Being able to read AND (wait for it… wait for it…) UNDERSTAND –E-V-E-R-Y-THING!
13. Taco Bell
14. Panikin with Alyssa
15. 24 hour fitness!
16. SUNSHINE!
17. Reading at Vinaka’s
18. Church- oh how I miss my churches
19. Having friends call me.
20. How could I get this far without mentioning my adorable nephew and playing with him! A definite must!
21. Getting a Tan- or soaking up the sun with some SPF
22. Not carrying an umbrella with me wherever I go
23. TARGET!!!!
24. Jalapenos
25. Endless hours of sitting at Barnes and Nobles and browsing through endless stacks of magazines
26. Pedicures!!!
27. The drive between my home and my best friends place.
28. Spending time with the San Diegans I have met here in France but connecting back home.
29. Movies with Nicole
30. Riding bikes on at the beach
31. Hair cuts by Kali- my head is a hot mess right now
32. My dollar being worth a dollar!
33. Not questioning what the right gas is every time I put gas in the car.
34. Not being charged every time I purchase something or withdrawal money.
35. People! I am so so so excited for all the people!
36. Being able to ask questions and really understand the answers. Not just put together pieces of words and have the answers
37. Dad’s BBQ
38. Air Conditioning
39. The smell of the ocean
40. Beach sunsets
41. Stars
42. Having someone else bag my groceries
43. KPFM
44. So You Think You Can Dance as it airs, not all fuzzy, and on a large TV.
45. Chilling with my brother
46. Hanging out at the girls apartment
47. Iced Drinks
48. Not having people question me every time, wondering how my “swipping” credit card works. Or needing to convince them that is does work.
49. California Boys- mmmm
50. Just knowing that there is no place like home, and living in every blessed moment that I am able to have. And to cherish it all while re-experiencing all that is “normal” for me, that I am so fortunate to have in my life.

Slurping Down The Funds

2010-06-22T03:10:00.000-07:00

Often it is said living in Paris is so expensive. However, in the end I am unable to give direct concrete examples of why it is so much more expensive to live here other than the typical- “to start off you have the disparity between the value of the euro and the dollar.”

Well that is all fine and well. But… unless you live with that daily disparity you might not fully grasp what this means. But alas, I have found a perfect example of one way living in France is much more expensive than living in the U.S. Or at least the value of cost and product.

The other day in the mall, my roommate had a craving for a slushy. I was convinced these didn’t even exist in France considering how hard I have to fight for a single cube of ice. But she assured me and led the way to the slushy machines.

In front of the slushy machines were the posted prices, just as you would have at your local 7/11 or AM/PM (or whatever gas station you use for your slushy fix). However, the cups were not next to the handles. You were required to first go and pay 2 euros (2.63 dollars this day) and then they handed you a cup where you could have the lady pour you, your slushy. I decided this wasn’t the day to ask her to mix the flavors.

Moi: Um… Can I have layered coke and cherry please? Thanks! That’d be great!

Their would be reaction: Ce n’est pas possible.

After paying the lady pulls out the cup and I thought it must be a joke. But instead I have a joke or riddle for you?

Q: How do you make a small car look big?

A: Put a French Slushy in front of it!

While in the U.S. for 2.50 you would be given a up about this size.

For our bargin of almost 3.00 dollars. Sarah and I were given this dainty thirst quenching size.

If only we were at yogurt land and could pay an extra 10 cents for them to “drop it” and quadruple my slushy value.

WROOOOF! WROOOF! WROOOOF!

2010-06-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

Every so often in my blog I have referenced Kujo. But I don't believe I have ever formally introduced who Kujo is. Anyone who has seen the movie Cujo movie from the 80's might guess that I am talking about a crazy wild dog- but this has never officially been stated.

Yes Kujo is a crazy wild dog. Wild as in zealous- he has a home, and he loves to protect it. Kujo is not just any crazy wild dog- he is my crazy wild dog. Okay... not mine but my corner neighbors crazy wild dog. He is big, burly, and a beast at best. Upon first meeting Kujo I was walking in front of his home and leapt 20 feet in the air when greeted by his gnarly bark. Though he is quite intimidating, I have found a friend in Kujo. I just don’t think he has found one in me yet.

Kujo defending his turf

While his bark probably petrifies most who walk by ( and honestly still does to me) it’s a familiar sound, and I have come to enjoy this massive beast. I have fun tormenting him and tossing things out my window at him, whispering Kuuuuuujoooooooo in his yard when I walk by late at night, and that he comes back hard with a vicious bark each time. Really were buds.

About a month ago I was looking out of my window and I realized I hadn’t heard Kujo’s bark in a long time and told my roommate, “I think Kujo is gone.” She shrugged not really knowing my history with Kujo, or yet to have the opportunity to bond with the villain. Upon this realization, my heart wished my bud was not really gone. But as days passed I would see my neighbor gardening with the freedom of leaving his gate open, and in the mornings when I would look out my window I would look expectantly to see my friend… only to see his empty kennel and no Kujo in the yard. I gave up hope that I would ever see my taunting amie again.

Today while doing my dance video workout I was blasting the music and had my window open to let in a cool breeze. While mid-pirouette I heard a glorious sound:

WROOOOOOOOOOOOF WROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOF WROOOOOOOOOOORF!

Feeling like I was the little boy in Homeward bound when he hears Chance bark:
Start video at 4:28 for the touching moment

I leapt from my spot, bounded to the window and yelled out

"KUUUUUUUUJOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! YOU’RE BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!
I KNEW IT! I KNEW IT! If I believed you wouldn't bite me I would run down and hug you! Just like Jaimy does with Chance. But I'm not going to take that chance."

WROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOF WROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOF

KUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUJJJOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

WROOOOOOOOOOOOOOF WROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOF!

I missed you too Kujo! I missed you too!

Wroof!

The French Revolution: World Cup Style

2010-06-21T03:07:00.000-07:00

There are riots on the streets of Paris. Okay maybe not actual riots on the streets, but the newspapers are flared up with disgrace and humiliation of the French National Teams “playing” at the world cup.

The melt down of the loyalty to the French team began after the embarrassing 0-2 loss against Mexico last week. (By the way- Mexico had TONS of spirit and fans,- but the Frenchies had stepped it up for this game too). But in the end, the French lost, Mexico won. The next day headlines read “Imposters!” and “Pathetic!” A cheek had defiantly been turned to this team.

Well if that is where the story would end with murmurs of embarrassment that would be sufficient. But when I woke up this morning I realized so much more drama has unfolded. After reading all that has happened I smiled and thought… this is so perfect and so befitting for the French World Cup experience.

A summary of what has taken place: A key French player (Nicolas Anelka) cussed out the coach (which was also a headline) (Raymond Domenech) and thus was kicked off the team and sent back to Paris. In response to losing their team member- the team decides to not practice with the training coach (Robert Duvern) on Sunday. Then the training coach yells at the team captain, which is broken up by the coach. While watching this take place the Teams Director (Jean-Louis Valentin) is furrowing his brow and decides he is fini. He throws his badge to the ground walks off the field and is on the first flight back to Paris. GASP! (Can you feel the drama)? I also imagine now Jean-Louis Valentin being seated next to Nicolas Anelka on the same flight. Buckle up folks, this might be a turbulent flight. Following the disaster unfolding on and off the field in South Africa- the most natural way to solve this problem is to have the French President step in and have his Minister of Sports talk to the team- aka knock some sense in these “Professionals.”

Why to me this is so befittingly French: Because this happens here all the time. I give you my formula in the context that has been so lovely displayed for the world.

- The Angry Catalyst (Nicolas Anelka ): Puph! (sound of the French puffing their lips) You are rude and impolite; I am going tell you exactly what I think because I am not afraid of conflict.

Warning: Though published in French Newpapers, best not to be translated

- The Instigator (Raymond Domenech): Ha! I have more power than you, I am having the higher ups get rid of you. See ya! Au Revoir!

- The Brotherhood (French Nation Team): Ce N’est pas Juste! That’s not fair.. You can’t take away our hommie- if he goes… We strike! We think you are the mole- We won’t train- You got us into this mess you traitor. I won’t kick any balls for you today!

- The guy in Charge (Jean Louis Valentin): Oh la la la la!!! If you strike- fine! You are a disgrace! I strike too and refuse to work with or for you! And I will throw my whistle as I stomp the yard.

- The Placater (The Government): OHHHHHHHHH NOOOOOOOOOOO! S’il Vous Plait Minister of Sports, this is why we have a place for you, it is our job as the government to ensure our team is alive and well down in Africa- Go and make Peace!

At the moment the French National team is in shambles. I am not sure what is going to happen between now and the game they are expected to play tomorrow night against South Africa. But have no fear- the government is on it. Hopefully the players will end their strike tomorrow. And will come together for a possibly redeeming win against South Africa.

I am curious to see how many people watch the game tomorrow- with all the upsets and embarrassments, I am not sure how many will still come out for support. But maybe if they get off the bus and start doing what they are supposed to be doing... This!

Then they might get a few fans back, and even score a goal before exiting the World Cup!

FIFA FAN FEST!

2010-06-14T01:19:00.000-07:00

Give me an event where there are thousands of cheering fans and I am one happy person. The cheerleader in me cannot resist the opportunity to scream and shout and cheer on a team with the best of them. I become an instant number one fan of any team and the louder the crowds shout, the more energy I have to thrive upon.

I have been waiting for the world cup to start for a VERY long time. Basicially… since I arrived. I have been waiting to watch the normal contained French become exuberant and wildly passionate about their sport and team of choice. The World Cup officially started on June 11th. I planned to join all the Frenchies in watching the sport and learn what the world loves about “Football,” compared to my love of American Football.

FIFA hosting the world cup has selected 6 cities to host the FIFA Fan Fest where they place a large screen in a major park to gather large crowds together to watch the game. Paris was selected as one of the host cities this year. The location couldn’t be any better. The event takes place right off of the Trocadero. The Trocadero is genereally loved by tourist for an amazing view of you with the Tour Eiffel. Having the World Cup game played for the next month with thousands of football lovers with the Eiffel tower in the back! What more of an experience can you ask for than that?!

If you are in Paris and are able to make it- I suggest arriving early. Pack a picnic come an hour or two early and enjoy the day. We arrived about an hour and a half early and it was perfect. Starting an hour before the game- there was a host who tried to pump up the crowds. Through dances, small competitions, and shoutings of “Allez les Bleus!”

Having fun while waiting for the game to start

The FIFA Fan Fast wass filled with all of the major news broadcasters (we were interviewed- luckily Sarah knows something about soccer), thousands of people, poofs of spontaneous busts of confetti, and music to keep high energy going during the pregame waiting and halftime break.

On the stage they taught an “easy dance” to get the crowd up and moving while they played “This is Africa” one of the songs for the World Cup. When they invited the crowd to join, 5 people out of the 3,000 stood up to join. I wonder if the other three people who stood were just as embarrassed, when no one else stood, and when the music played they did a completely different dance. However, I am not on a mission to learn the moves to “Wavin Flag” and be better prepared, to help set the tone of the match.

The Goal will be go from the 5 of us who stood to getting the response this crowd had.

My favorite part of watching football with the Frenchies is being with them during the singing of their National Anthem, “La Marseillaise.” I appreciate the difference between the normally loud Americans who listen respectful to the “Star Spangled Banner.” To the typically reserved French who proudly sing or chant the first verse of their National Song. We recorded a video of this on Friday. The sound is a bit off, but watch the group of guys who have their arms wrapped around each other in camaraderie. Another one to observe is the guy pumping his fist in support of his nation and team.

One other fun difference between Sports in America versus here in France was the dress code. At home when going to a game I always wear a Tee Shirt or Jersey to support the team. At a Chargers game everyone is dressed in Chargers gear. Being that we were going to a Major sports game in France, my roommate and I naturally went to the store- questioned our national loyalty if we bought France National Tee Shirts but decided, “When in France… Wear France!” We bought our shirts and wore them proudly to the game.

Notice all those surrownding us and their lack of any thing resembling team spirit in their clothes.

And we were the ONLY ones proudly wearing these shirts to the game. I thought for sure I would see several people wearing my basic shirt. But no. Everyone else was wearing their regular clothes. There were a few who wore the French flag and painted their face – as in two people. And if I would have talked to them, they might have actually been American- who also made the mistake of dressing for a major sport event the same way we would back home.

But to give the French more credit than their lack of Blue attire, they did have many waving flags in support of their team. (I wonder if they sell American Flags here?) And you can see in the video of their national anthem they wave them proudly throughout the game.

While I was one of two people (the other my roommate) wearing a shirt in support of France, I think I will keep this small part of my All Americanism while watching the World Cup this year. Hopefully we can help inspire a whole new level of support and Spirit for the French National Team.

I loved the FIFA Fan Fest, I loved watching the World Cup with the French in support of their National Team, and I love that there is a whole month of football ahead to roar up a nation, and rally people together in support of something fun.

Allez Les Bleus!

Coupe du Monde 2010

2010-06-11T04:46:00.000-07:00

Today begins the 2010 World Cup. Tonight France will be playing and I am very excited to go and watch with all the Frenchies!

Best of luck to the Frenchies (and of course the Americans!!!)

Cheese Please

2010-06-05T05:02:00.000-07:00

This week my fridge was completely barren. About half way through the week my roommate and I decided to do something about it and make a grocery list. I started the list and then handed it to her to fill in the missing list.

My list:
- Oranges
- Milk
- Eggs
- Tomatoes
- Zucchini
- Bananas
- Yogurt

When the list returned to me it looked something like this:

- Cucumber
- Apples (a few)
- Red/green pepper
- Hand soap
- Lettuce
- Cheese

Pause…

Cheese?

I hand the list back to my roommate and say,

“Iowian… do you know what country we are in?”

Iowian: “um… France?”

Me: “Yes! Exactly! Look at this list, You want me to buy Cheese? What kind of cheese lady? There are over 400 types of cheese! Do you want to buy one of every kind? Our fridge would reek.”

We shared a good laugh and then decided we wanted Brie, Camembert, Feta, and Emmental, for this weeks cheese selection. This way when we walked down the two full aisles of cheese in the super market we didn't have to pretend we were on supermarket sweep and clear all of the cheese out of the aisle- but leave a bit for the vrai frenchies to enjoy.

Free no more

2010-06-03T01:00:00.000-07:00

When I arrived in France I was greeted with the wonderful youthful, energetic, buoyant, age of 24.

And now I am the old seasoned, grape dehydrated turned raisin age of 26.

Had I been in the US of A, in the land of the Free, and the land of Free refills; during this age of transition, this thought might not be so tragic or a transition at all. But because I am in the land of the free, if you are under 26- my cost of living just went up significantly.

See there is this beautiful fact in France that pretty much everything is cheaper when you are 25 or under. Free museums, discounted metro tickets, cheaper movie passes, lower priced gym memberships (the whopping bargain of 52 euros a month), and these are just to name a few. This was especially beneficial when the friends and family come to visit and I would go play tourguide for the touristos and touristas. I greatly appreicated not having to pay full price to see the same things several times. To me it helped even it out.

But alas… the joy of freeloading off the benefits of being young in Paris have dissipated. My time of gallivanting around for free or on the cheap has come to an end. I now must join the rest of the population over 25 and do the unthinkable… but to pay the Adult price.

Ugh.

They can take away my youthful discounts, but they can never take away my yooooooouth!

Another Birthday Away

2010-06-02T02:46:00.000-07:00

On May 31st I threw myself into a mini pity party. A wallow of self-depravity that I am so capable of doing when I am tired and missing my friends. This was spurred by my 15 days of constant work and travel. And then encouraged by that fact of knowing that in a few short hours I would be turning another year older, in a foreign country another year without my friends and family around. Yes I have new friends here, but when events like my birthday arrive- I naturally pull to wanting to be stateside.

However- yesterday was an wonderful day! I never cease to be amazed at how many people take the time to wish you a happy birthday when you are away from home. And the extra effort people here make to make you feel like you are at home. I had a simple day- but filled with many facebook greetings of Happy Birthdays, a few cards from loved ones at home, and an amazing dinner with people I have come to know here.

Thank you for all who made not just my birthday special but every other day in between. That’s the greatest gift a girl could wish for.

Ruby Slippers

2010-05-31T12:17:00.001-07:00

If I could find a pair of these, and I clicked my heels three times... Would I magically wake up to have one day at home?

Bye Bye Tabs

2010-05-26T02:25:00.000-07:00

In the last few days- something quite resourceful disappeared off of my computer. When on the internet, I could click on a new tab, and my “most visited sites” would pop up and I could click, click, click away through my top sites to see if anything interesting at that moment was happening.

Within a minute I could browse through Facebook, Gmail, Blogger, NY Times, and whatever handy dandy site I decide to spend my internet life upon. But, oddly the last few days when I would click on my new tab to zip through my fave sites, the options were missing and I would (GASP!)… wait for it… wait for it…

I would have to click in the browser bar and Type (yes type!) my web address destination, All. By. Myself.

Phew! Tough I know. I don’t know how I have managed but… somehow I am making it. Unfortunately… not all are being as successful in typing up their own websites and are quite enraged by this change. I thought my computer was doing something different, but after researching how to turn it back on, I learned that google removed this feature and it is no longer an option.

After discovering this, there was then a huge long thread of lots of internet based yelling. You know the whole, all caps all bold font. It’s quite intimidating. Anyways, These bold font bulliers are livid. Yes literally livid that their Google tab bar has been removed and they are distraught on how in the world they are expected to access their favorite websites without it.

I loved this option, and really do hope that it’s reinstated. But… it is not something I will waste a day mumbling and grumbling over how ghastly it is, that it’s now gone. (Instead, I will just write a blog about those grumblers. Ha!) One person complained that now when their boss comes in looking for information they can’t just click on their tab and pull it up. They are clueless on how in the world they will function on the internet any longer. In these cases- I laugh and think, “Yah right.” Most studies show that employees are on the internet much more on non- work related items, than on work related sites. So actually… the removal of this tool, might, just might save you your job. Rather than your boss seeing you spend your time on Facebook, Twiter, and crybabies.com, you can save face and (deep breaths again) Type it in yourself. Scary I know!

I actually don’t think this is the end of the tab favorites, especially after all of the slack google is getting from this change. But seriously, we all survived before the favorites tab existed, I think we can survive now. We are just typing it back old school style before 2009. The only question that remains is, How did we ever survive before this time???

Ahhh We Meet Again

2010-05-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

After a post about how many of us Americans miss having Taco Bell while living here in France, I recieved a wonderful suprise. My mother sent me a care package with all the fixings to make Taco Bell tacos, here in France.

To celebrate, I hosted a Faux Taco night, to enjoy the fresh ground beef seasoning, shredded lettuce, and cruchy taco shells. Yum! As we were about to eat, I remembered that on my last visit to the states- while at a Taco Bell I nabbed several packets of Mild sauce. (In case of an emergency). Having those packets was the pefect compliment to the gift my mother had sent.

After preping my perfect TB approved taco I reached into the bag, and watched the Red Sauce ooze over my taco with adoration. After squeezing every last bit out of the packet I looked at the front and smiled and though, Oh how true this is...

Yes, Yes Taco Bell, We do Meet again!

Open Your Eyes, Love, and Go on...

2010-05-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

“You can shed tears that she is gone, or you can smile because she has lived. You can close your eyes and pray that she'll come back, or you can open your eyes and see all she's left. Your heart can be empty because you can't see her, or you can be full of the love you shared. You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday, or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday. You can remember her only that she is gone, or you can cherish her memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back. Or you can do what she'd want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.”~ David Harkins

Love you Grandma

Reunited Dream

2010-05-16T02:06:00.000-07:00

I just spent an amazing week with my friends. All in all it was pretty mellow – but I think I was simply calmed by having their presence around once again, and overwhelmed knowing that in a few short days it was going to all be like a perfect dream. Magical while it is taking place, but then a suddenly re-awakened into reality, and desperately trying to go back to sleep, to get back to the moments of random blissful happiness.

Initially having my BFF’s with me in a foreign land was exciting, surreal, and a time of adjustment for us all. For me it was a question of, How do I combine my foreign life abroad to my familiar life from home? I wanted to just take off right from where we left off, but while it felt like no time had passed, it was also evident to me how much I have changed, but also reinforced how much having them around- felt to right to who I am.

I was grateful to share my life with them- for them to visually be able to understand all that I try to explain inadequately on the phone, blogs, or email- and to observe them experiencing it all for themselves. I enjoyed seeing what parts they could skip on the next time around, and what parts they took pure delight in and could spend their entire week alone doing. I liked the times we were just lounging around, taking them to places I knew they would enjoy, or experiencing something new for the first time… Together.

I logically knew that taking them to the airport would be difficult but I did realize how hard it actually would be. If only I could have sabotaged their security checks without having them arrested- but elongate the time I could have them around. When it came time to send them off towards security and we hugged goodbye the tears couldn’t be held back in knowing I would be letting the best part of me leave once again. Leaving the U.S. there was so much excitement, anticipation, and promise of what is up ahead. But having my friends here, leaving me (rather than the other way around) made those realities difficult to see.

For one week I had my cake and was able to eat it too (or lots of Macaroons). I was able to enjoy the life I have here in France, with my best friends, being able to share with them a part of who I have become, and the place that has changed me for forever.

I love my friends, and I hope that our next time of being reunited, will not be far off in the distance, and will be for an even greater length in time.

Call Depan!

2010-04-30T07:06:00.000-07:00

Finders Keepers was my mom’s rule when it came to doing laundry in my house growing up. If she did the laundry and spare change (or 20’s) came out of the pockets, they were hers for the keeping. But she also ~~nagged~~ continually reminded me to take anything out of my pockets before putting them in the hamper.

This week my washing machine broke. Well not broke per say… more like, stopped working as it is supposed to. To me it was just another saga in the things that I get to learn how to fix. And that if I didn’t live in a foreign I most likely would never have to learn. (Mainly because I would have my dad come and fix it.) But alas, I pulled out my machine. Asked everyone I knew if they knew how to fix washer machines and tried to fix it myself. Of course I failed. But could probably answer any questions you have about a washing machine.

Using my problem solving skills I did narrow down that the machine itself actually works. There was simply a problem with the water draining. If I put the pipe on the ground it would drain, but as soon as I would elevate the tube- the water would not drain as it once before had, and my load of laundry would be stuck in 4 day old water. Ick. I diagnosed that the problem was

1. Either something was blocking the water pump

Or

2. My water pump was broken.

Yesterday I finally surrendered to trying to solve the problem myself and called a repair man. Expecting to be told that he will come in three weeks, have him arrive, tell me it’s broke, come back three weeks later, and then bill me for more than my machine is worth. To my great surprise the exact opposite happened. I called the repair man, and he set up an appointment for the next day. I then kept praying, “Lord- please let it be quick, easy, and cheap!”
My repair guy showed up and looked at my machine and told me as I suspected that my water pump was clogged not broken (whoo hoo #1). He then tipped my machine over, unscrewed my water pump (one thing I didn’t take apart) and then pulled out a
BOBBY PIN!!!!!!

Somewhere along the line of bobby pins I have lying all around- one ended up stuck in my water pump- thus blocking the pump from doing it’s job of pumping water through the tube and into my sink. He then placed the machine back on the ground- turned on the rinse cycle and demonstrated the beautiful flow of water (whoo hoo # 53920343) I was ecstatic! You would have thought I struck oil the cheers that burst through me as the water once again flooded my sink as intended. To me it was like watching Old Faithful burst through the ground as I “eww and ahhhed” at its splendor.

I was utterly impressed that in less than 24 hours this problem was solved. This is a first in my French experience. I will recommend him forever- and for everything! Broken washing machine? Call Depan! Broken vacuum? Call Depan! Broken stove? Call Depan! Sick Cat? Call Depan! Bad Baguette? Call Depan! I have no clue if he does anything other than washing machines- but I’ll recommend him anyways. Maybe he can extend his business. I think I will just make "Call Depan!" my new campaign.

In the end, I got exactly what I had asked for- quick, easy, and almost cheap. My .01 cent bobby pin cost me sixty Euros- but better than a whole new machine or something more expensive. And my mom will finally get what she asked for: Me cleaning out my pockets before I place them in the hamper.

Year Two Brings More Happiness

2010-04-21T23:24:00.001-07:00

If you ever have the crazy idea of living abroad. Make sure you stay two years. The first year will be filled with lots of new discoveries, insights, and frustrations. But the second year is so so so much more enjoyable.

I am still in the beginning of my second year living here in France, but so many small things about this time of this year is so much more enjoyable than it was this time last year. And I loved it all so much last year. But rather than continually learning about what is about to come, I get to enjoy it all the more thoroughly when it returns. The expectancy of knowing that soon the tulips were going to be planted, the days would grow warmer and longer, and parks would be filled with people once again.

It’s not just the spring that is bringing me the joy of appreciating the second year. I just really am smiling on the inside knowing, that I know how to take care of things better this time around. I have learned many lessons over the first year, and they are all paying off as I enjoy year two.

I am so excited to still see what is to come, and I know I am not fully in the clear of the, “ desperately helpless me” situations to come, but those too will help me for whatever it may be in the future.

Life at the moment is good. I am content, happy, and enjoying this time I have been given here in France. I hope small moment of reflection give you this perspective too!

This has been part of Mamakat's workshop. To participate go here.

Looking at what's ahead- and so EXCITED!

2010-04-20T05:38:00.001-07:00

I am so excited and filled with delight of all the goodness that is going to take place in the next six weeks of my life. There are so many great work opportunities, time spent with friends, and adjustments being made to my apartment.

Last July- I found out a new girl was going to be joining our office. Not just a girl. A young Girl! (as in, in her 20’s). I had quickly claimed her to be my roommate thinking she would be arriving in a few short weeks. But no… she has yet to arrive. However… This weekend I will finally be meeting my new roommate. I recently realized I haven’t lived with anyone for quite some time now- almost 4 years. I look forward to a new roommate and all the memories we will share while living here together in France.

Shortly after my roommate arrives another great arrival comes. My Best Friends! They will be here in 16 days! (Not that I am counting or anything) They are coming for 8 days and it’s going to be wonderful!!! I can’t wait to show them around my life, my town, Paris, and just be with them. I love technology and the ability for phone calls and emails, but NOTHING compares to just hanging out together in person doing something, or even absolutely nothing but the treasure that we are still together.

With the arrival of the new roommate and best friends has brought with it lots of long awaited to-do’s, that are actually being accomplished in my apartment. Many things that have needed to be hung since I moved in have actually been hung. When the roommie arrives we will have to redo the bedroom all before the friend’s arrivals. So there are many fun house projects ahead. I never thought living abroad I would learn to do minor electrical work, hang cabinets, and designing small living spaces like living here has required me to do. The minor changes I have made so far- makes my apartment look much homier- I am anxious to see it all up and completed.

Work is flourishing at the moment. A few weeks ago I had the busy busy busy conference in Cyprus and this next month I have two back to back conferences to administrate. I am sure at the end of May I will collapse from the Friends and then 3 major trips back to back with only 10 hours of turn around time before heading back to the airport and out of country- but I cannot pass up the opportunities to learn more than I have already been blessed with.

With all of this crazy goodness- I will do my best to keep up the blog. If I slack- I am sorry- but know that I will be back. But for my own sake as well, I hope that in the moments of all the busyness, to sit back and take it all in, because it’s all so good. It would be sad, if it all went by all too fast, and I didn’t take advantage to realize what it was, while it was happening. I must make the most of the moments I am given. As one of my friends favorite quotes would perfectly say, “Live this moment, for this moment is your life.” I hope to remember that while taking in all that is being provided for me in this next month.

Big World- Small Circles

2010-04-16T15:25:00.000-07:00

Last week in Cyprus I met this guy Matt. Matt is serving with my company in Azerbaijan.

In 2000-2002 Matt lived in San Diego. The place where I grew up and come from.

Then from Sept 2002-Fall 2005 Matt was attended my same university for the exact same time I was there. Matt also attended the same church I went to 40 minutes away from campus. After comparing class schedules we most likely had a class together at one point and time.

My university was quite small. About 5,000 people. My company is quite large and very international. So it is strange to me that on our small campus or at church I never met Matt. But while I live in France and he lives in Azerbaijan, we met one morning in Cyprus over a bowl of yougurt and a plate of eggs.

I love when your path crosses with someone you may have once before walked right beside or really have the whole time, and didn't even know it. It is a big big world, with lots of small circles that keep us all intertwined.

Riding with Strangers

2010-04-11T02:23:00.000-07:00

Every child growing up in America, has heard 8 simple words repeated, echoed, and etched into their minds from the time of consciousness and all through elementary school:

“Do not get in the car with strangers.”

I moved to Paris right as the blockbuster hit “Taken” came out – about a girl and her friend who hitch a ride with some nice guy from Charles De Gaule to their place of stay in Paris. Only later to be kidnapped, drugged, and sold into prostitution. Then came the influx of advice, “Katie- don’t take rides from strangers- especially in a foreign country!” “Are you safe? I saw this movie, ‘Taken,’ don’t get a ride from someone you don’t know.” “Be careful who you ride with, just because you think someone is nice. You can never really know, and you might be, ‘Taken.’”

After a week of sitting in conference rooms all day, on Saturday we were given a half day break- to get out of the hotel, and breathe some fresh air. A group of us decided to take the bus into town, and see what there was to offer. The bus is scheduled to run every 30 minutes. After waiting 45 minutes and having no bus come by- we decide the bus is probably not going to come- and we were wasting our precious limited free time.

As we are discussing what to do next, my friend Jeni puts out her hand, and a car pulling out of the hotel stops. She asks for a ride into town, he shakes his head yes and a group piles into the car- me being one of them. We did ensure that one boy accompanied us- but the whole time I am amazed that with ease and without questions we all jumped into this “nice guys” car. My first hitch hiking experience. I Never thought I would put that one on my list of things I have done.

Literally as our car was pulling away- the bus pulled up, loading the rest of the group whom we assumed we would bump into down town. After pulling back onto the road – our new driver puts on a Middle Eastern Techno as our loud background music- and he and the token boy begin rattling off Russian to one another. I am so out of my norm.

Stranger- Check

Driving on the opposite side of the road- Check

Car full of people speaking in Russian- Check

No cell phone- Check

No idea where I am going- Check

No Money on hand- Check

Middle Easter Techno Music- Check

Can my life become any stranger at this moment?

Nope!

While driving I turn to Jeni who is acting as if all is normal on a regular day and laugh saying,

Giddy Hitch Hiker: “I can’t believe we just did this.”

(Jeni is quite confused by my amusement of it all.)

Calm and Collected Hitch Hiker: “Why??? Because of the Loud Music???”

Giddy Hitch Hiker: “No! We just got in the car with a Stranger. My mom would flip if
she knew about this.” (sorry mom!)

Calm and Collected Hitch Hiker: “Ooooooooooooh… (Laughing) I get it now! You have
never done this before. See in Kazakhstan, we do this all the time. We stop cars as if they are taxi’s and take a ride.”

Giddy Hitch Hiker: “YOU DO?!?!” That’s crazy!”

Calm and Collected Hitch Hiker: “Yah, it’s perfectly normal to stop any car and ask for a ride.”

Giddy Hitch Hiker: “Ahhhh! Now I understand why you were so okay with it all. I was just so confused, because all my life I have been told not to get in the car with strangers, especially in a foreign country, and here, you just did it without a flinch.”

After 15 minutes our driver dropped us off exactly where we wanted to be- we asked how much we needed to pay him (apparently another standard when asking strangers for rides) and he dismissed us from the vehicle saying “We owed him nothing- it was free but to get out quickly because we were holding up traffic.” We promptly scrambled out of the car- and just like that, faster than he came, he was gone.

While I don’t think hitching a ride from strangers will become my new normal. I was given a small adventure in this foreign land, and reminded that my abnormal, in another country and culture can always be someone else’s normal .

Musical Hotel Rooms

2010-04-07T13:14:00.001-07:00

It’s 10:30 at night. It’s been a long day. A day of running around, up and down. Jenny needs this. Mike needs that. Can I get 15 copies of this? Did you get my email? Is the coffee Break ready? Do you know where I can get internet?

- Yes
- No
- Yes
- Yes
- Wait on sec
- No

On the go since 7:00 am. Keep up the pace- you need to be in two places at once. But it’s that glorious time of the day when I can escape from the conference and retreat to my room. No questions. Even better- No required answers. Just a bed ready for me to close my eyes and drift to sleep.

I change into my comfy pajamas, crawl under the fresh clean sheets, of the perfectly fitted and made bed. I rest my head on my pillow and sigh and deep breath of relief and relaxation. Ahhhhh a completed day- no more needs to meet for the day. Slowly drifting into a peaceful sleep…

RRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGG

RRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGG

RRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGG

RRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGG

Unrested me: “Uh- hello?”

Reception Desk: “Um, Yes Miss Hickey- sorry to disturb you, but so and so just arrived, and when they went to their room there was someone else in there.”

Unrested Me: “Okaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay…….”

Reception Desk: “Where would you like me to put them?”

Unrested Me: ~~“Outside”~~ “Um… let me check… “
(reaching for computer- bright light shining in eyes as adjusting back from the darkness- looking through spreadsheets desperately searching for a quick fix- to quickly get back to sleep)

Unrested Me:“ Can they room with what’s their names in 211?”

Reception Desk: “ Well it looks like they also switched rooms…”

Unrested Me: (long pause) Do I need to come down?”

Reception Desk: “Yes - that might be a good idea.”

CLICK.

Humph!

30 minutes later and lots of unregistered room adjustments later- I am headed back to my room and my bed. This has been the story of my last 2 nights.

My biggest fear at the moment is that with two more people arriving today- my night will once again end this way. Me relaxing in bed- to be jolted by a ringing phone and required to figure out where the “Hotel- Musical ~~Chairs~~ Room” switching has landed and trying to get people into beds- so they can sleep before me.

Bonne Nuit!

This has been part of Mamakat's workshop. To participate go here.

The Sense of Being Home

2010-04-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

Bright color painted toes – freshly sprinkled with sand

A taste of salt that lingers on your lips

The smell of sunscreen and skin from resting in the sun

Cool drips of water on your shoulders from a refreshing dip

The chills you get while wadding into the water

The burst of exhilaration when you take the plunge and go all the way under- you can’t help but to gasp.

The sound of gentle splashes flowing up to the waters edge

A playlist of Colbie Caillat and Jack Johnson playing from your iPod

A t-shirt draped just so across your face to block the blinding sun- but so you can still view the people and water

Watching couples walk hand and hand along the shore and children laughing while at play

Tangles in your hair as it begins to try into place

A breeze the sweeps across and flips the pages of your magazine

A quick nap and a sudden jolt that wakes you and reminds you it’s time to flip

A look in the mirror at the end of the day- for the bathing suit straps that signify you achieved a fresh tan

The glow on your cheeks from a run in the sun

How refreshing a cold glass of ice water can truly be.

The joy in knowing… that tomorrow it will all be here and all be the same.

Only 4 hours in Cyprus and I have been taken back to exactly what it feels like to be at home.
And man, does it feel GOOD!!

For fun- the reminders that I am NOT in Cali but in a whole other world-

The sun rises on the water rather than sets.

And… rather than cute surfer boys sporting board shorts- it’s a bunch of Middle Aged men in Speedos. Ick.

Time to Change

2010-03-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

While the U.S.A flew forward a few weeks ago - here in France we decide to jump ahead and join you this weekend.

Tonight while lying in bed I looked up at 8:45 and saw it was just begining to seem dark.

I am so excited for the long never ending days. Cool summer evenings of sitting on cafe terraces, strolling through parks, or relaxing by the seine.

Hip Hip Horray! It's time for a time and season change!

Living and Loving in the City of Lovin

2010-03-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

Living in the city of loooooove- you see it all around (l-o-v-e that is), and as spring comes jumping into action you see all the “lovely” couples just eager to flock back out into the gardens and parks of Paris to savor their love in the warm sunshine. Not to mention the influx of tourists that will appear to take a kissing headshot in every monument around the city. Yes I will stop and take a picture for you. No you will not be in it, if you start making out.

So as the flowers begin to bloom, birds start to sing in the air, what makes people go crazy after one eye gazing stare. What can take a usually normal sane being and after a brief chat, smile across a crowded room, or first date- make people totally lose their minds and wonder what the heck is going to happen next? And while you feel completely bizerk (yes I made this word up) people tell you it’s completely normal. I am pretty sure over analyzing ever single moment, several times, is not “completely” normal. But while you maybe going internally insane between first encounters and first phone calls, you are completely elated once you hear the voice of the anticipated pursuer actually DOES call. And filled with hope of where it will go from here…

Whenever I talk to anyone from home who I haven’t talked to since I pretty much left, one of the first questions they ask is, “So… have you met anyone yet?” (Which to be fair is a fully understandable question, it’s more of the expectation of romance due to Paris I am emphasizing on.) Prior to moving, pretty much every person (minus two people who refuse to let me live here forever) claimed my future as the typical Hollywood blockbuster love story to happen. I am so sorry to disappoint each person thus far on my venture. Cause really, I am pretty sure no one would be more excited than ME ME ME ME ME for that to actually be true.

One friend of mine has gone so far as to take bets with me. I love betting on my love life. It’s quite comical. Anyways… she is 100% certain it’s going to happen. The whole love story: Meet cute , fall in love, married, babies, “Katie a Married Parisian for life.” I am totally not against it. But I do live my reality here – and she lives the hope of the dream for me. I am thankful for that. So, whenever I comment on how I have met a cute guy, passed one on the street, or something to that degree, her quick response, “I knew it! I am going to win this bet!” Whoa… hold on Charlie… Let’s get an actual first date before we set the wedding date.

The funniest part is, this isn’t even just a foretelling from friends from home thing. It’s like in your mid-twenties if it’s not on your mind constantly; then others will put it there with a fresh dose of false hope as a free tote to go with your singleness. Whenever I travel and visit our staff in the Middle East, they tell me of all the people who have gotten married after visiting them. “Stephanie came to visit us, and she got married after wards, this always happens when people stay with us, you will see (wink wink).” “Jeni was great she came, and now she’s married, it’s cause she came to see us.” “Oh Alice, she was with us, and then she went home and quickly married, we are good luck.” Well, I cannot refute these stories are true, Stephanie, Jeni, and Alice are all married. I’ll be sure to take some of your love soil back with me in my carry on and sprinkle it around for good luck each night before I go to bed, or out with friends at night. I will be sure to send you the results once I marry.

I cannot deny. I am a sucker for love and boys. I am happy to be single at this moment. And, I love seeing happy couples all around the city. It reminds me that there is hope for all of us singles out there. Most see couples as annoying or a reminder of their singleness, and at times I will admit to having those thoughts and feelings too. But somehow here in Paris, minus the metro make out scenes, I appreciate people being in love and the reminder that no matter where you are in the world, there is love everywhere.

And hey… if people want to dream the dream for me, I mine as well let them, I’ll take all the wishful thinking people can give me. But – I am not just looking for good wishful thinking; I’ve got to keep a look out for the real deal here. And I mean, who’s to say, maybe someday after the first look, and the first encounter, I’ll have my first set of anxiety before receiving, the first phone call, and even… the first date.

The Striking Game

2010-03-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

The common joke you hear is that Striking is the French National Sport. Like American’s national sport is Baseball, Striking is something perfected by the French. They all rally together and support one another through this bonding experience.

And when I say perfected- I mean… they have learned to work the system amazingly. See when I first arrived, there weren’t too many strikes and then suddenly there were strikes all of the time. Then they stopped. Well this week there is a strike once again on the metro lines. And I figured out the genius-ness of the Frenchies striking system. They may have fooled me the first year, but I figured out the catalyst for their striking season.

Now while, most would say that they are striking over bad pay, change in political leadership, you know… common reasons to strike. I would argue the Frenchies are really striking subconsciously to get out into the sunshine.

You see we have recently had a change in weather making lots of nice “no need to wear a coat,” sunny days; after a very long and cold winter. In the winter, I never heard of strikes taking place. Because seriously who wants to stand outside when is raining, snowing, or just gosh darn cold. No one. Exactly. They would rather stay contently inside, suffering whatever it is they will strike once the sun comes out.

So yes, I would now agree that like Baseball is to Americans, Striking is too the French. Because when the warm weather comes around, they all meet together outside to enjoy the warm sunshine, play some games, and enjoy the beautiful day. So to help the Frenchies up a notch making their striking a bit more like the American sport I have made them their very own rendition to “Take me out to the Ball Game”
You know… for when they take their 7th hour ~~Kir~~, Stretch.

Take me out to the sunshine
Take me out to the signs
Buy me some cheese and some good baguettes
I don’t care if I ever go back
Cause it’s root root root for the sunshine
If the clouds come back it’s a shame
Cause it’s Une, Deux, Trois STRIKES till your tan
At the Old Striking Game!

Battle of the Dishes

2010-03-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

Last night after dinner, Madamoiselle Facebook did her job of taking our two bowls and placing them in the dishwasher. Bravo! I was quite impressed by her ~~initiative~~ training of chores even while her parents are away.

However... In the sink were three coffee mugs. Her three coffee mugs that had been left in my car the last few days. I did her the favor of carrying them into the house, but then placed them in the sink knowing she would be loading the dishwasher later. (yes as a test- shame. on. me.)

After the tough work or loading the two bowls into the automated cleaner, I saw the cups in three cups still sitting perched standing in the sink- calling out to be cleaned. Here is what went down...

Nagging Adult (me)- So! Do you think those cups can go in the dishwasher?

Madamoiselle Facebook- (very puzzled look on her face) ummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm ummm ummmmmm.

Nagging Adult- I think it will be okay...

Madamoiselle Facebook: ummmm ummmm ummmmmm

Nagging Adult- Try it. I promise all the things left in the sink at the end of the day will be okay to put in the dishwasher. Let's see what happens when we try.

Madamoiselle Facebook: Uh... shruggs. Okay.

I think we are making progress! What do you think ?

The Facebook Generation

2010-03-17T09:35:00.000-07:00

I have a 14 year old girl staying with me for the next two weeks. This should be interesting. I have always known she had a particular love for being on Facebook, but today's conversation gave me a whole new insight.

Setting: Leaving a Saint Patrick's Gouter (Cookies, cake, coffee)

Me (aka- an offical Adult now): Are you sure you want to leave, we can stay a bit longer so you can hangout with Jenny and Annie?

Mademoiselle Facebook: (shruggs her shoulders) Nah, I need to get back to my social life.

Offical Adult: (Puzzled) But... that's why I was offering for you to stay and hangout with them.

Mademoiselle Facebook: I mean facebook.

Official Adult: Oh... gotcha.

Mademoiselle Facebook: They are real people on there. I don't get why my parents, I mean adults (looks at me) don't understand that Facebook is full of real people.

Official Adult: No... I know their real, just not live.

Mademoiselle Facebook: Sure they are- we instant chat.

And the winner is:

Baby Boom!

2010-03-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

I love my life right now. So why is it, that everytime I open my facebook the panic of the ticking clock begins to set in. Tic Tic Toc goes the clock. Like the rabbit from Alice and Wonderland I am left running in a panicking hurry looking at my watch and not at my beautiful scenery screaming “I’m late! I’m late! I’m Late!” Well… I am not as late as some… which just might be the problem.

Everyone is pregnant! And those who aren’t - probably just had a baby, or don’t yet know that they really are prego. I am overjoyed at each announcement I receive from a friend that they are getting married or having a baby. Individually I think they are absolutely fantastic, the best thing to happen for my friends, and ecstatic for their blessings in life.

But… when I open my facebook and each picture staring back at me is a photo of a new born baby, wedding gown pictures, or a status update of cute baby Jill- the panic button is pressed. How is it, that I can be so easily manipulated into forgetting all the great things I have going on in my life at this moment; and obnoxiously believe that I am fully missing out- and running out of time to ever have, what they already do?

I logically fully know and acutely aware that I am no where prepared or wanting to have a bun in this oven. I am happy that it’s my friends having the babies and me who gets to celebrate with them, and not be in the room pushing. But what makes me feel pushed to be headed towards mommyville?

I think part of it, is because I am so far away from that even being an option in my life. I mean heck- I am a missionary living in France. It’s not like I am going out of fabulous dates every Friday and Saturday night. The closest I ever get to a boy here- is the boy who sells me my produce on Sundays. But my how I do look forward to my weekly Market Boy.

It’s funny- being in the most romantic city in the world all alone. I don’t actually every feel it- the city itself inspires all the love one can feel in life. It’s the Page Six of my Facebook that tells me I am behind in the life schedule of all my other friends that makes the uneasiness settle in.

So… when the panic arrives, I just have to take a look at my surroundings and remember how unbelievably blessed I am. And the fortunate life that I get to live. That just because love and family is not happening for me at this moment, doesn’t mean it won’t ever be. And to enjoy this moment, cause it’s the one I’ve been given, and who’s to say what else will come in the road up ahead. This time isn’t forever- it’s a special time, a time for me. And one day someday sooner than I probably realize- I will have a slobbering baby profile pic too.

McDonaldization

2010-03-10T06:58:00.000-08:00

The common plea around the American’s I work with is there is a KFC and a Pizzahut the two sister companies of Taco Bell- but why No TACO BELL in France??? Nous Voulons taco bell. It is a mystery to us all and one that leaves are stomachs always longing for those gooey Chessey Gordia Crunches. After writing that- maybe it’s the fake cheese the Frenchies are against, but oh how I love that cheese piled on my Nachos bell grande- with a fountain Pepsi. Ahhh there’s really nothing else like it.

As much as I would love a Taco Bell here in France, I have to admit- though delicious, I applaud France for not taking on Taco Bell (but really it’s their loss). I came to this conclusion after my last travel in the Middle East. Neither Lebanon nor Jordan had a Taco Bell but their selection of “American” restaurants was far far far greater than what you would find here in France.

There were the common exported restaurants such as McDonalds, KFC, Dominos, and my personal favorite, Starbucks!

But then there were many more that I felt oddly strange to see in the Middle East: Apple Bee’s? TGIFridays? And most eye popping was Fudruckers! What the Fudruckers? Are you kidding me? This is my Dad’s favorite restaurant, and Fudruckers isn’t even all too common where I live, and here it sits- in Amman Jordan.

The tragedy of this, is there is such great food to be found in the Middle East. And LOTS of it. Every meal our hosts stuffed us to the brim. At one point there were 35 plates of food on the table. Our first night as appetizers were being served, I thought, “this sure does put the appetizer platter at AppleBee’s and TGIFridays to shame!”

While in the Middle East I greatly enjoyed the idea I could just go and grab a Crispy Crème, or any other American fave of mine- I just couldn’t make it fit in my mind that it was okay to go for a Whopper rather than a Schwarma.

Me in front of Reem the rated #1 Schwarma stand in the Middle East via the NY Times.

Oh wait! This is actually Reem. The Red Stand, two stands down from the Blue one. I Can't believe I did read the sign.

I greatly appreciate that France is an advocate for fighting against the McDonaldization of their food preferences. While I may miss my Taco Bell- I know that when I return my Taco’s will still be waiting but that while I am in France, Jordan, or Lebanon- I want to enjoy the food of that place and what fresh seasonings and ingredients have to offer. Though many would disagree and would like their American options- I am happy I don’t have them- but have the fun of exploring what the Frenchies have to provide. For now, I am perfectly content with thinking within the Baguette!

Driving in the Middle East

2010-03-04T07:46:00.000-08:00

In English this sign says Stop - but I am positive in Arabic it must say , “Just Kidding. GO Speed Racer! GO!”

Driving in the Middle East is like an experience of no other, and I hope to have no other experiences with it.

I can handle a bit of disorder in my driving. Driving here in France is a bit chaotic to the outsider but when you are in the midst of it, it really does ebb and flow majestically together like a ballet. But… in the Jordan and especially Lebanon, you really get the most use out of those “Oh No” grips on the top side of the passenger doors.

I don’t think there were more than 5 stop signs or stop lights that we actually stopped at in a week’s time. And even then, I believe it was just because the intersection was full, not due to adherence of the sign. Even during the times, where cars were coming from the direction with the green light, our drivers would continue through the intersection confidently- while my eyes bulged out of my head staring at the car approaching my door- praying I would not meet the end of my life in the next two seconds.

While driving down the freeway at about 80 mph the two lanes have become roughly 3-4. Dotted lines mean squat.

Seatbelts aren’t even optional- they just don’t exist. A few cars did have the luxury of a seatbelt and I don’t think I ever clasped one across my waist in such haste.

What I found most interesting were the different forms of communications drivers have here compared to other places I have been exposed to their driving habits. Here the horn is essential. I once read a statistic that the average person honks their horn like 7,000 times in their life. I thought that was crazy cause I hardly ever honk- and usually it’s to say hi or bye. I now realize this can be an accurate average because people in the Middle East (especially taxi’s) honk about 500 times a day. No joking. Beep. beep. Beep. Beep. All across the streets.

Interestingly enough, I learned that Parisians too, used to be honking addicts until the 1930’s when the Frenchies outlawed the tooting of the horn. Love the Frenchies for this! Paris sounds so much more beautiful with the silence of the horns.

Going back to the honking signals of Lebanon- while flying down the freeway- if someone was entering into your lane and you weren’t happy about it, what do you do? Slow down? Psh! Never. You slam on your horn until they hear you and submit. If that doesn’t work, and it is night time, you can feverously flash your lights to get their attention.

One night driving home in Beirut- our car was flying down a hill into a cross intersection where I could see there were no stop signs. As we approached, our driver flashed his lights to warn our entering into the intersection. Within a second we passed through. After surviving I asked the driver, “How do you know who has the right away? What if someone flashed their lights back?” His reply, “Whoever gets there first.” So comforting.

When I was in Spain, a friend living in Afghanistan said, “You know, you really do have a greater chance dying in a car crash in the Middle East then ever dying from a terrorist attack there.” At the time I found it an interesting comment. Now having been on the roads, I have to say my friend is 100% correct- if you can survive the driving- life is good! So if you find yourself being driven around the Middle East, I leave you with some advice from the French, “Courage! Courage!”

No Smile???

2010-03-01T11:03:00.000-08:00

When it comes to pictures I love to flash my pearly whites that are from living here are quickly becomes tinted with tea. But regardless... if you are used to seeing pictures with my smile flashed and wonder why... I have the Frenchie smug across my face...

It's because it's mandatory.

When you go to take your picture for the Carte Sejour there are very specific instructions. One of them being that you are not allowed to show your teeth. My friend Emily actually got called back to retake her picture before they would issue her, her Carte Sejour.

Other rules that are required when taking your mug shot, but not limited too:
1. No teeth showing
2. Must be able to see your ears. (why no teeth, but mandatory ears??? It's beyond me.)
3. No scarfs or other items around your neck
4. Must be looking at the camera without a head tilt (also a really hard thing for me- classic picture pose.)

That's all I can recall from the mug shot I had to take a year ago. But I do remember thinking I looked like I was being committed, and that the rules were quite silly.

When a friend was visiting the picked up a few spare I had lying around and said, "you look like a Frenchie." So though the rules might be silly... at least the help me look the part of a Frenchie for one moment of my time existing here.

Officially, Official.

2010-03-01T10:24:00.001-08:00

As of 10:41 am this morning I am officially official to be here in France.

Now, after being here over a year you would think I have been official… but no. It’s complicated. And now it’s a saga for me to share.

Jan 9, 2009- Plane landed (phew), Passport stamped. Welcome to France! Whoo hoo!

March 2009- French consulate: “I’m sorry, you need to go to Los Angeles to pick up your Visa. We can’t send it to you, like we said we could before. So please board a 16 hour flight and come stand in line for 5 minutes to receive your visa.”

April 2009- Please stand in line for 2 hours to hand in your paperwork.

July 2009- Please stand in line for 2 hours to receive your recipice. (Recipice is an in-between document until you receive your official Carte Sejour (residency card.) )

October 2009- Please stand in line for 2 hours to extend the expiration date of your recipice.

January 4 2010- Whoo hooo you have received the request for your medical exam. Please go to medical exam and then wait for your Carte Sejour (residency card).

Jan 23,2010 9:00 a.m.- Recipice about to expire AGAIN. Wait in line for two hours AGAIN to extend the expiration date.

But to my surprise they are going to give me my Carte Sejour!!! Doing the happy dance at the ease this is going to be. Should have waited because...now all they need is 300 Euros (450 dollars). Problem. I don’t have 300 euros or an ATM card because this is also the week my wallet went MIA.
Here’s the conversation:

Me: Okay so if I come back with 300 Euros you will give me my Carte Sejour.

Man: Yes of course.

Me: You promise?

Man: Yes strange girl- why wouldn’t I give it to you.

Me: You Promise? Cause I know you might change your mind.

Man: No no no, all you need is the 300 Euros.

Me: Okay, I’ll be back.

Jan 29, 2010 2:00 p.m. (a few hours later- but the key is, there is a different person!) Stand in line for 2 hours for second time in this day.

Me: I am back. I am here to turn in my 300 Euros to get my Carte Sejour.

Woman (new person!): I am sorry you need to go to the medical exam.

Me: I have already gone to the medical exam. You have the paper with the date stamp in your hand.

Woman: No…. we need a different piece of paper.

Me: But the man PROMISED me earlier today he would give it to me if I had my 300 euros. I just want my Carte Sejour.

Woman: I am sorry. Not my fault. Here is your extended reciepce.

Me: Merci…

Feb 17 2010-
Walk in- strangely there is no two hour line. In fact there is no one. Very odd. Walk down a strange hall and find all the people. Woman at the counter directs me to walk a bit further down the hallway where someone can assist me.

Wait to get a window. Smile brightly. I know it’s going to work this time. Cross my fingers, smile brightly, I give the man all my papers, the right medical form, the 300 Euros of stamps- the carte Sejour is going to be mine. I just know it.

Man- you need 300 Euros

Me: You have the 300 Euros in your hand.

Man: Baa no.

Me: Baaa yes, look.

After 5 minutes he uses his calculator and realizes that yes ,there is 300 euros of stamps in front of him. But then tells me I am at the wrong counter. I need to go back to the front. Apparently the front office is closed today. And the next day. And then I am out of the country for a week. So… time to leave once again- without my residency card.

Today! March 1, 2010- a day to mark in history.

Arrive early and break all the rules (okay just the one about not taking pictures). I Make it through the stampede line. Wait in the sitting room where it’s stuffed full of people waiting for their turn at the windows. My number gets skipped.( Obviously). So I walked to the counter and showed the woman my ticket and ensured I would get some attention. I again smile brightly, give her the 300 euros of stamps, the right medical form, and pray she will not care that I have traveled over the last year. Let alone last week.

I know your jealous you haven't spent a full 16 hours of your life in this waiting room.

One of the rules with having a recipice and not a Carte Sejour is you are not supposed to travel. Having traveled just last week- my still fresh stamps might make it a bit obvious. However… To my lovely French administration…. I respect that you don’t want people to travel while waiting for their residency cards. But I have waited “Officially” for 11 months. On my beautiful Carte Sejour it says my date of entry was April 4, 2009. Today is March 1, 2010! I am not on parole running from the law. (though the picture on my Carte Sejour looks like I am). So please, if you make such rules, please make it practical to follow. But thank you for not noticing today how much I have exhaustively traveled while waiting for my residency card. Cause I really do like France, and am really glad I can stay.

My Mug Shot

So hip hip hooray! Today I can officially stay!

Until August when it expires and I get to begin the process all over again!

The Oversea's Olympics

2010-02-17T12:14:00.001-08:00

If I had to pick a Winter Olympic sport that best represented what life overseas looks like, I would say most people picture life like figure skating. A long smooth never ending glide. It’s beautiful, fun, entertaining, you are captivated by it and it becomes a surreal dream.

However… While there are moments of seem less ice skating is involved- we can’t all do perfect sit spins and triple toes all the time and would say the living overseas process is more accurate when including the following Olympic sports:

The first competition would be “Ski Jumping”- right before leaving home everything is going by so quickly you don’t realize what is going on. Just like the steep slide of the ski jump. Then suddenly you are launched at the end of the strip and AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! You are simply hoping those small skis attached to the bottom of your feet catch you- cause you have a journey up ahead. But even when in mid air you know it’s a risk you are willing to take – you’re mid air and it’s too late to turn back or panic now. You have to believe it’s worth the fear that comes with your first jump- cause even if not at first… you’ll eventually find your perfect landing. Or almost perfect.

When you first arrive in your new home country it’s a lot like “Curling”. You landed the ski jump but now it’s take to take it slow and just get from one point to the other. Making small, but large progressions in your new area and just trying to hit the target. You are given a small push and must make lots of adjustments to make it to wherever you are trying to reach. To reach those- you really need others around you, who have been there before to help guide you to the right areas and show you a few mishaps to avoid. (Though you'll still manage to find a few on your own.)

While you are trying to hit the new cultural and living targets of curling- you enter a new Olympic sport called “Biathlon.” Apparently this sport is big here in Europe. I personally had never heard of it before, but it is quite an interesting concept. Living abroad, there can be times you think your new culture does everything wrong and only yours is right. (Cause America is perfect right?) You are trying to be two people at once, a skier and a hunter. Or An American and a Frenchie. You need to learn to bring the two worlds together. While learning the new language and culture, if you become frustrated you have to stop, look at your larger surroundings, focus remember why you are here. And hey if you are having a hard time, at least in Biathlon, you get to shoot things and break things at the same time. That’s awesome, and the perfect cure for times of cultural clashes.

During those cultural crashes you can feel all wacked out and out of control like you are racing in Apine skiing and Moguls- you know where they have to go around all those lil red markers and then hit the moguls and go uh uh uh uuh uh uh u hhhh over all those bumbs… yah there’s a lot of those uh uh uh uhhhh’s. But also times where you get to fly past amazing views and do some awesome high jumps. But the race is downhill making it quick and it’s all over before you know it.

So at the end of your journey hopefully you’ll take Gold. But just like all the training the athlete’s put into their sports, it’s all about what you put into your time abroad. There is much to be gleaned from the time. Every athlete I am sure has contemplated giving up especially when they do this…

But you have to continue to work hard and follow your dreams in order to look back one day and realize all that you have achieved when you finish the journey.

California Raining

2010-02-15T12:15:00.000-08:00

The lyrics belong to Madeleine Peyroux and the pictures belong to Tim Walker. But the love of both, belong to me.

California rain is falling
I can hear the summer calling
Far away, far away
A song that's fading

Put me on a plane tomorrow
I'll try to run from all my sorrow
Far away, far away
From endless waiting

It's so cold here without my sun
I'm so sad here, far away from everyone
What a fool to be ambitious
Moving here with all of my wishes
Far away, far away
From where my heart is

Shut the phone off and pack my bags
No more boys who boast and brag
far away, far away
Where I belong

I'm so sorry for some things I've done
I'll be lonely till I can see my only one
California rain keeps falling
I can hear my old love calling
Far away, far away
Where I started

I’m going back, back where I belong
Gonna catch a train
I gotta get back where I belong
Get back...

Do's and Don'ts of Summer Travel

2010-02-11T07:34:00.001-08:00

As Spring and Summer will arrive eventually (though with the constant snow- it’s quite difficult to imagine)… there are many out there who dream of heading over to Europe to explore in the next few months. I would like to leave all of you with a list of Do’s and Don’ts to think about as you prepare for your summer travels. Now some you would think this list is obvious… but they are not apparently- because I have seen them all done.

Do plan ahead. I know, mind blowing advice! It might not be quite the fun adventure you would dream of but trust me… you will be much happier if you do. I don’t understand the concept of people showing up in Europe with no plan, hotel reservations, or clue what to do. I am a girl who likes spontaneity- but I am also a girl who likes to sleep in a bed at night and not on a park bench. You never travel anywhere in the U.S. without having a place to stay, so why would you show up in a Foreign country where you can’t speak the language to find a cheap hostel or hotel that is probably already booked. If you are loaded this is easier but traveling on a dime, not so much. Booking is easy and can be done a few days in advance, if you don’t want to book months ahead, that’s fine, just make sure you have a place to drop your stuff before you next arrival destination. Seriously even just 24 hours in advance- works miracles.

Don’t abuse the power of a friend’s friend. If a friend passes you off to a friend who lives in a place you want to visit and the friend’s friend agrees to let you come and stay, Great! But… if they give you any reasons why you can’t, don’t show up at their door step. Not quite, so cool, to do. Free is great, but not if it’s coming at the expense of someone you don’t even know. I don’t think you’ll be making friends with your friends friend. Never let leaving cheap come at the expense of someone else. Plus if you do it right, they’ll likely treat you better and maybe even help you find someone or place wherever your next destination maybe. But Do ask, Cause they most likely will say yes and show you some of the best places you would miss on your own.

Do know the power of a Back Pack- If you are staying in one place, go for the roller suitcase, Awesome! But if you will be going from place to place, riding loads of trains, and going where the day leads you, Use a Back Pack. Europe is filled with cobble stones, stairs, and platforms to which you will be grateful to have a bag on your back rather than a bag to roll, trip around your dream vacay. Trust me when I say, it is not fun carry your massive bag up the never ending flights of stairs. I always feel so bad for those I see who make this mistake in the metros here.

Do take pictures. But don’t ask anyone who doesn’t look like they have a clue about what’s going on in the world. People always ask the first person they see walking by. Which is fine… if you don’t mind having the monument in the background and your head cropped out of the photo. If you don’t mind this scenario, then you made the perfect choice. Look for someone you think would have a decent idea on how to take a picture. You don’t have to do this, but they are your memories. Just thank goodness for digital cameras. I cringe at thinking off all the pictures people in the “film” days paid for to be printed, only to try and decipher what the picture taken was actually all about.

Do Picnic! Some of the best experiences you will have is throwing down a towel or blanket or heck go crazy and sit right down on the ground, and buying local goodies. This is the cheapest way to eat- and the best to fully experience the area. Restaurants tend to be pretty pricy comparatively, so for lunch lounge, enjoy, and then you have a bit extra to spend in the evenings.

This could also be used as someone could have gotten both us and the Tower but failed, just as we failed to ask the right person.

If it’s warm weather and you are a girl do wear tank tops, but if you plan on visiting old churches, Do bring a scarf or something to wrap around your barred shoulders- Cause you Don't want to have to wear this. Not quite so cute.

Do have a guide book- they are helpful in finding all the major spots you want to see. But don’t just stick to the book. If you wanted a LonelyPlanet, Frodors, or RickSteeves experience- I am sure they have great selections. But don’t limit yourself. A guide book is exactly that- A Guide. Do talk to locals, and find great places of your own. Make the experience yours, invent it, live it, and them remember all of YOUR great finds, that were assisted by your guide book of choice.

That’s all I have for you for now. I am sure I will think of some others as the snow melts away and the spring flowers begin to bloom. And man am I excited for that day! I also look forward to the turistos and turistas who will come to visit me soon.

This prompt was inspired by MamaKats writers workshop. Want to see others go HERE.

Mid-Year

2010-02-10T03:17:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I was at critical melt down point. It wasn’t fun. But, shortly after, like two days after, I was headed to a Stint Mid-year conference. I suppose for those who don’t know I should say, my time here in France is known as a Stint. A short term of service rather than being on fulltime staff. Every year in September my organization holds a briefing where all the Stinters gather before being flung out into the foreign land, they were headed towards. Then, after a few short months later, (that seem never endingly long) in January they hold a Mid year conference to check in and see how everyone is surviving and how they can last the remaining time thriving.

Now, my situation is a bit unique, in that all other Stinters are on a team. Most teams have about 5 or 6 other young twenty something’s on their team and they go through the whole process serving, living, and working abroad together. They meet each other in September and then from the briefing head out to their new homelands and return to the U.S.A in June or July. I am different in that I started my Stint last January, and have not yet set a return home date. I am also different in that I do not have a team of other Stinters with me here in Paris. I have staff families but no other “youngsters” living and learning all together.

The night before leaving for Mid-year I was on the phone with my mom and she started asking Mom like questions:

Mom: “Well, are you going to have a roommate.”

Me: “ yeah… I am sure they will set me up with someone.”

Mom: “um… are they going to have ice breakers, (pause) so you can you know … meet people.”

Me: “Mom, are you worried I am not going to make friends? I have been living overseas for one year without any American 20 something English speakers! and you are worried about your daughter who at age 5 went door to door searching for friends? Please! Don’t worry about me, worry about them.”

The next morning I boarded the plane at Charle de Gaule and had a layover is Switzerland. I wandered the airport and then headed to my gate. Walking up to the gate I saw 6 young Americans and thought, “Jackpot! My first group of friends!” I sat in their area and struck up a conversation with the two girls sitting across from me. Yup- I guessed it, they were headed to mid-year too! Six new friends and 200 more to come! This is gonna be A-mazing!

We stayed in a place that was beautiful. And quite deserted because it’s not quite beach season, but it was beautiful none the less. I am sure for those serving in quite hot, ugly, desert places- this was a dream location for them. But for me, it was the dream surrounding of people for me. I was immediately energized by all the people and the stories they had to tell. It was incredible to be with 200 people who knew EXACTLY, I mean EXACTLY what I have been going through. Those I work with in France are so incredible, encouraging, and understanding, and I couldn’t ask for more. But there was something at a heart level of peace and comfort all of these people could give me that was unexplainable. I didn’t need them to tell me they understood or that it was okay, because you could hear it in their voices and see it in their expressions, that they did get it. Even without talking about it, they got it. They knew the joys, and they knew the struggles, and it’s not a memory for them, but something they are experiencing full throttle in the moment now too.

In France and at work, it’s not that I am all that different from everyone else. But at the same time, there are just small differences, that I see no where else, but with me. It was amusing for me to see I am not so abnormal or the only one with my similar interests. What’s interesting they are all traits or characteristics I didn’t ever realized were held by others around me, until I came to a place where I was suddenly so similar to everyone around me. Apparently the composition of a girl in her young twenties living overseas comes with: Journals, giant sunglasses, nose rings, flip flops or ballet slippers, funky jewelry, and reusable water bottles.

Girls from Mid-year

Mid-year for me was exactly what it was meant to be, spiritually, emotionally, and physically renewing. I was refreshed in a good dose of social life, doing hair, talking about nothing, taking pictures and at the same time being encouraged. Knowing that somewhere else in this world away from home, though I am technically alone and without a team, there are many others out there, living and adjusting to life abroad, and doing what it takes to make this time, the best that it can be.

Happy Crepe Day

2010-02-01T23:43:00.001-08:00

Now you American's reading this today I am sure are anxiously waiting to see if the groundhog will stick his wee lil head out of the hole to know the predictions of the remaining winter season. However, here in France February second is National Crepe Day! Or more appropriately called La Chandeleur.

I love that this country has a day dedicated to a meal! Even better that it is the Crepe, because I have come to love Crepes. However, before we get to the food, I’ll give you a sentence or two of the history. The origin of this holiday comes from the Catholic Church. February 2nd commemorates 40 days after the birth of Jesus, and apparently after 40 days, Jesus was presented to the community. And some how batter and egg, or batter and Chocolate- is a good representation of that presentation. Amen!

There are two other “traditions” that cling to the traditions of “The day of the Crepes.”

The first would be a bit of fortune giving. When preparing the crepes, you are supposed to hold a coin in your writing hand, and with the other attempt to flip the crepe in the pan. If you are like me, you would have a mess of batter splattered all over your clothes. But if you are like Julia Child you are able to perfectly flip the Crepe meaning you will be prosperous in the year ahead.

The second tradition falls a bit more along the lines of Groundhog’s day and has the following poem:

À la Chandeleur, l'hiver cesse ou reprend vigueur
On Crepe Day, winter ends or strengthens

À la Chandeleur, le jour croît de deux heures
On Crepe Day, the day grows by two hours

Chandeleur couverte, quarante jours de perte
Crepe Day covered (in snow), forty days lost

Rosée à la Chandeleur, hiver à sa dernière heure
Dew on Crepe day, winter at its final hour

Considering that it snowed AGAIN yesterday, I am thinking we just lost 40 more days according to traditional the stated poem above.

So in case you are wondering, What the heck is a Crepe? Let me tell you. A crepe is made from a thin pancakeesque batter poured into a frying pan and evenly distributed to cover the entire surface. After a moment or two on each side you will have a thin, delicate, and delicious crepe.

When most touristos and touristas appear in Paris, they want a Crepe. But, not just any type of crepe a Nutella Crepe. They are oh so delicious and oh so rich. I can just see the open potential for a "Got Milk" campaign. These crepes are usually wrapped in a triangle and enjoyed as you stroll along the streets of Paris.

Nutella. Yum!

There is another type of Crepe- but it's not called a crepe it's called a Galette. Galettes are still a thin pancakeesque batter, but made with salt and a bit thicker of a base to hold greater contents. Galette's are typically filled with savory flavors rather than sweet food. My favorite is the typical Egg, cheese, and ham, but if that’s too breakfasty to you at lunch or dinner, they can be filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, veggies and sauces.

A Galette Complete- Egg, Ham, and Cheese.

Galettes and Crepe’s alike came from the Western Region of Bretagne, where they are typically served with Cider. Cider can either be Brut or Deux. The deux is my preference because it is a bit sweeter and tastes almost like Apple Cider that is served to the Kiddos on Thanksgiving and Christmas day.
The Bretagne Flag

So while you are watching for the groundhog to poke his head out of the hole, think about whipping up a batter and making yourself a traditional French crepe and celebrate the Frenchie way!

The Update

2010-01-29T15:33:00.000-08:00

- Car still not fixed

- Cards in non existing wallet, still not yet recieved. (I have one U.S. dollar left to my name which is about 60 cents of a Euro).

- Returning from my trip my suitcase was lost in transition.

- Cell phone minutes Zero

So no car, no money, no phone, no clothes, make up or other daily goods- but just had an amazing week being filled up with people and vision. That's all I need. Life is good!

Bored? Never!

2010-01-21T00:02:00.000-08:00

Top Ten ways to Stave off boredom

1. Learn a new language- Spend time in a place where every time you want to speak you have to figure out how to say it. And saying it wrong you get to look like an idiot. You are bound to end up in awkward situations and laughing at the ridiculous things you say. But when you are shopping for new glasses be sure to say you want them to make you face look good, not your butt look good.

2. Make meals and then drop it all on the ground, then you can start all over again from step one of shopping for the ingredients.

3. Make plans to meet friends after work but then walk to the public transportation and use two hours to get there instead of thirty minutes it should take. This way you can watch the people on the train, and be late to hanging out with your friends. Then when you see your friends, you can feel horrible about being the “late girl,” yet again.

4. Become obsessed with a ridiculous tv show that other people are ridiculously obsessed about. Then spend endless hours reading the same thing over and over again- no no no it’s not mind numbing it’s culturally enriching I promise.

5. Create chaos- if you need ideas try a few of mine- crashing someone’s car, locking yourself out of your apartment, or losing your passport in an airport. All of these will help you spend an invaluable amount of your time. And teach you a great deal on how to work well under pressure and stress.

6. Get lost- and find your way again. This becomes particularly entertaining when you miss your roundabout exit. We all loved carousels as kids- so think of it as a big kid carousel, round and around you go.

7. Stalk your Facebook friends. That way rather than doing something you can see what everyone else is doing minute by minute of the day. Keep watching the livefeed feature. Think you are the only one single and not having babies? You’re right! Just keep watching those wedding, baby, and engagement announcements as they pop up as common as wall-street standings.

8. If you live in France, go to Carrefour- there is NO WAY you are getting out of this store in less than an hour. Even if you don’t buy a single object, it’s impossible to get in and get out.

9. If it’s a Sunday and everything is closed- go to Ikea. Where else can you go to pick out an entire new home? Plus if you buy anything you are bound to spend hours with that small wrench they graciously give you, to assemble the bookcase you didn’t need- but would just look perfect in that one corner.

10. Follow Mademoiselle Gaga’s advice and “Just Dance.” Turn the music up- and go crazy dancing like no one’s watching or can hear you singing. And if you hear banging on the walls- just you’re your speakers up a bit louder, then the banging won’t interrupt your groove.

This was part of Mamakat's writers workshop- want to participate, head on over HERE.

Day 11

2010-01-20T09:03:00.000-08:00

Day 11- Car window still smashed. Giant hole- still existing. Yesterday this idea had me smashed to pieces and today it has me saying… but of course.

Seriously, why is it that you can drive someone’s car and destroy it, but you can’t fix it? After days and days of waiting to hear back from the insurance agency, I was told that they would only speak to the owners of the car.

Fan-Tas-Tic!

The owners of Shattered Glass Car- are on a five week trip to S. Africa (thus why I had their car). So it’s been about two weeks with them gone (and about two weeks of a smashed window, you do the math)- which means three MORE weeks till the car can be fixed. So! Frustrating!

The interesting part of the conversation that I didn’t quite understand; was that in regards to car insurance, the law says that they can only deal with the owners. But, with Bank accounts, they can talk to someone else? Hmmm… that makes me feel great about my wallet that went M.I.A. last week after a trek through the metro. Glad whoever has the wallet can call up my bank and freely discuss my empty bank account status.

Okay – back to the car situation. It’s been raining for the last several days- thankfully I have a garage to park the car under to keep it from being flooded. But then again, if I didn’t have a garage then I probably wouldn’t have a smashed window in the first place.

I just want to fix the car. It shouldn’t be this complicated. But then again, learning how to do everything in a new way in this country is never simple.

The American in me is coming out in this situation. I want to put my foot down and demand service. Or there’s 5 yr old that came out of me yesterday, as I threw a balling tantrum on my floor. I must find a way to get this fixed. There must be a way to “work the system.” So if any of you… have a free Renault Scenic back door you want to send my way, I’ll take it. Or if you know how to work the French car insurance system, Even Better!

My Confessional

2010-01-19T11:11:00.000-08:00

Okay- time for a confession.

I have started watching the bachelor. I know! All those times friends from home were watching and invited me over, or there were bachelor watching parties in my college lobby, I would decline the offer and do something else. How I got hooked into this season- while away from home, I don't know. But I am hooked like this show is to cheesy love anaolgies.

I mean seriously who couldn’t get hooked on a show where you know there is a 1 in 25 chance odds of finding love. And I get the joy of watching it all take place- meaning I get to live vicariously through 25 different women. Well… except for the skanky ones, drama girls, or those that just plain annoy me. So actually only vicariously through one or two.

The bachelor this year is Jake. I adore Jake. Some think he’s dorky- but I think he’s charming, respectful, and gorgeous. Dang- why didn’t I apply to be on the show this year? Ha! I also like the decisions he has made in sending the girls home. This week I was glad to see Michelle but even more Elizabeth go home.

Jake- The Bachelor

Miss Kiss me, Kiss me Not Elizabeth. You are a tease. At least when the other girls try to "wooo" Jake they admit to their shameless ways. But you… you just took it to a whole other level and made yourself look like a fool. I am glad Jake realized this, before he was set off into a life time of manipulation. I liked you when you played football- you had a great arm, but you played one too many games on this show for me.

Miss Kissing Tease

Corey- is a fave of mine. She doesn’t get much time on the screen which doesn’t give me too much hope for how long she will last. But I think she is cute and sweet. During the group date this week they each had to perform during a comedy show- I thought her performance was the best and thought it was cute she could show the different personalities of the girls in the house.

Corrie

This week I think many people were happy to say bye bye to Michelle. I actually liked her too. I thought she was crazy and had too much faith in this system- but she put her heart out there- and got sent home in a Taxi cab. Oh, and saying, “That’s all I get?” After you beg for a kiss. How you didn't impress him, I just don't know?

Michelle

Again- many people from what I gather are not big fans of Vienna. But... I like her too. I think she is fun and bubbly, but according to the girls in the house fake. GASP! Fake girls on reality TV??? Next thing you are going to tell me, is not everything is 100% accurate! And I don’t think I could handle that. Please wait a moment while I alter my world view.

…

Okay i'm back. Only time will tell the what will happen with Vienna, but at this moment I am a fan. Last night the show started out great with her one on one with Jake- and I thought she was really good for him. But I do think she is too young. She’s only 23- he’s 31, and you can tell this girl likes to go out and have her fun. Jake’s looking for marriage so… I will have to stay tuned for how this 1 out of 12 love story ends.

Vienna

The one I hope for the most is sweet Tenley. Tenley really does come across as America’s sweet heart. She’s been vulnerable, goofy, gets along with the girls, and has refrained thus far from the in house drama. But what has me rooting for her is when Jake is with her you see the special spark in Jake’s eyes. They both seem comfortable and intrigued by the other. I like them.

Tenley

There is one more reason– other than rooting and booing the hopes of love of these women I know nothing about, other than what ABC creates, to watch this show. The Dresses, Duh! So this weeks Best Dress award goes to Ali! Loved the dress (but not your attitude this week)- but your still cute and a fave for now.

Three girls went home- leaving 9 more to go! Who will it be??? Only time and love will tell. Until then-

Happy Bacheloring!

Curious Kate

2010-01-17T04:57:00.000-08:00

I am always looking for the extraordinary. Looking for something outside of my zone- something beyond my reach. Curiosity has always been one of my best friends. So much so, that my nick-name as a child was Curious George. There is no person I see, that I don’t want to meet and know their story. There is no adventure that I do not want to attempt, no soil or land I do not want to touch. In life there is so much to explore and experience I get giddy thinking of all the possibilities that exist within our reach to venture.

In talking to a friend this week about my last two month spell of mishaps, bumps, and ruts of life, led me to the comment, “People say these things can happen to anyone- but they don’t just happen to anyone, they always inevitably happen to Katie Hickey. Why do I have to be Katie Hickey?” Meaning- whether in Cali, DC, Paris, or anywhere else in the world- why do I find myself in situations of despair and repair. Losing things is my forte. And finding them- is my fortuity. How I don’t lose my mind in the process is a miracle. Accidents, have become been a new addition for the last few weeks, and I desperately hope this is not now a pattern, but a slump of misfortunate occurrences. I am beginning to more and more understand the saying, “Curiosity killed the cat.”

After making the statement, “Why Katie Hickey? Why me?” I was quickly shot a thought of reality of how fortunate I am. Yes- Katie Hickey gets her fair share of floods, important documents M.I.A, and being a walking disaster. But these things are what come along with the other great things that Katie Hickey does have. I quickly realized that if I was not in such a position of fortune, of living my Curious George dreams, I wouldn’t have the problems associated with them.

A lost wallet would still be a lost wallet anywhere in the world and It will always be a hassle- but replaceable. A car crash- though probably easier to deal with in your native tongue, would still be scary and troublesome. If I wasn’t in France exploring, I would never of had this accident. I would never have had the opportunity to learn the lessons of snow- and how to and not to drive in it. The last time my driveway in California had snow on it was… Never. And will never. It would have been a missed opportunity to live and learn.

I am fortunate. My curiosity and love for the Lord and life has brought me to the crazy and simple life I live here in France. I love every moment of it. Yes, even the difficult ones. Because in each moment I am learning something new about France, God, and Myself. It’s an incredible journey and one that makes me thankful that I do get to be who Katie Hickey was created to be.

After being here in France for a year- my learning curve is not quite as steep as it was on day one. I am not fully overwhelmed with each and every new experience. Though, new experiences and lessons are always being learned. I am excited for the time ahead for France and me. For the time where I take what I have learned, and use my curiosity, to bring my current knowledge to a deeper more detailed and intimate level. I am excited to grow more comfortable with the French life and all the beauty they have to offer in the art of living a life at a Moins Vite ( slower) pace.

No Matter what happens from here, one thing is for sure, this chic cat will not be killed- nor will her curiosity surrender.

Shattered Glass

2010-01-13T12:00:00.000-08:00

Snow- it’s beautiful when it falls. It glistens, and falls lightly creating a feeling of beauty all around on a cold winters day. And after the beauty and enchantment wears off… it debilitates you. Last week it snowed again. Europe and France is seeing a record amount of snow since the early 1980’s and it just keeps shimmering down, landing on the ground, and remaining in places it doesn’t belong.

When it snowed last week the first day I called work and said, I would be working from home- I didn’t want to drive on the unplowed roads. The next day, again there was lots of snow on my parking garage driveway and I didn’t want to attempt getting out. I had someone come and pick me up for work. Day Three, repeat. Day four- Saturday. The driveway looked better, I saw some cars from the garage have managed to break free from the underground dungeon, and decided to make my escape.

I get in my car, pull out, open the garage door, and begin my accent up the drive way. It is a long drive way. I start off well, reaching nearly to the top before the tires begin to spin in circles and I feel the car moving backwards. No! No! No! Break Break break!!! Why aren’t the breaks working? Emergency break?! Nope! Ice. Is. Winning.

Pumping the breaks, I keep sliding. I am still saying, “No. No. No.” But the ice and gravity are conquering all my efforts and I am praying there is not another car behind me that I am going to repel into backwards. I am falling backwards quickly and as turned my head to look back and see if there was anything behind me, exactly as my head turned around to see clearly, there was a booming SMASH and I see the garage door slammed into my rear glass window. Instantaneously, the garage door was missing, I was covered in glass, and due to the momentum the car was now stuck on top of the garage door, that one second ago shattered my window, into the pieces now covering me.

If you think this looks bad, you should see the other guy.

Place head in hands, now.

Frozen and unable to move. Terrified to move the car off of the iron gate, out of fear of popping the tires of the car, I do my best to reverse the car. Thankfully- one of the cars that did exit the garage parked in the first slot and I was able reverse and park there. With all four tires still full of air.

"The Other Guy"

Clean up. Ick. Lots and lots of sweeping.

This garage door is heavy. When my parents were in town, sometimes my clicker wouldn’t open and it would take all three of us to lift the door open. I now had to push the door out of the way of other drivers in case they attempted to go down the driveway. After thirty minutes of pushing and pulling I was able to move the door enough out of the way of drivers and begin the clean up of the car.

So this was my great tragedy of Saturday. This week, a group of us have been working through getting the issues resolved. My apartment manager acknowledged that the driveway is steep and covered with ice. Apparently he had asked the guardian of the building to de-ice it, but the guardian had, “run out of salt.” Gee for three days- three days I was stuck inside unable to go buy salt. Not to mention the last snow fall, the ice was not cleared either. Run out must be code for, “too lazy to do something about it.” But they have been very gracious and understanding thus far about the situation and for that I am very thankful.

Yesterday was my first day driving since Saturday. After the management heard about the accident, amazingly enough the ice was completely dissolved like magic. Poof! Gone. Amazing right? (Though it was still 2 days after the crash.) Yesterday, When I woke up I noticed that the driveway was a bit wet and walked up the entire drive way feeling for any ice, I had to ensure I was not slipping and a sliding my way back down again.

Hopefully next time I go sliding down some snow, it will be in the French Alps and not my drive way. But until then my relationship with snow, “has been broken like Shattered Glass.”

Starting again

2010-01-09T07:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was so excited about today's arrival. The day I would wake up smiling at the survival of one year in France. The world would be my oyster.

I woke up refreshed. Oh, the possibilities the day beholds. I was going to spend the day with Mon Amie Annie, shopping (the big sales are happening) and dinner at night. I decided the best way to start the day would be with crossiants! (after all breakfast is the most important meal of the day)-

But then tradgedy hit. My biggest, scariest mistake that has happened since my arrival. It was a strange experience. It was like watching it from an out of body experience. Happening slow motion, but all too quickly to stop it from happening. A tragic ending was envitable. The Good news is I am safe, and okay. I have alot to fix and make better, but for as bad as this is, it's the best it could be.

Today, I didn't leave my apartment. I have been here all day cleaning up the mess. No shopping- just sweeping and pushing around heavy stuff then more sweeping. I was pretty distraught but I am keeping a positive attitude.

I am disappointed but I know it will be okay. I smiled a few times being able to take care of things on my own. I didn't need to wait for someone else to make calls for me. One of my biggest anxieties this year was being fully helpless. But today- when I made a mistakes, I was able to compose myself and start taking care the situation. I still need the help of others, but it is comforting to know I could at least make a start.

So... today wasn't the best way to start off again, but that's life- and that's my life of growing up here. I will smile, move forward, fix my mistakes, and do my best to keep forging ahead without being discouraged.

One day- i'll be able to say what exactly happened today- it will probably be on my blog of the biggest mistakes I have made while away- and what a long blog that will be. Might be the longest one I ever post! But - God is good, I am blessed, and tomorrow is a new day. (Hopefully a day without any mishaps!)

The snow a year ago

2010-01-08T15:42:00.000-08:00

Dinner, family, friends what better way to spend an evening. Everyone is excited but also somber. I am delighted with anticipation of what the future holds. Well wishes of, “good luck!”, “You’ll do great.” , and “I love you, I’ll miss you.”, take place. Lots of tight warm hugs, laughter of memories shared, and long last glances before the night comes to a close.

Up early in the morning- had to catch a flight. Mom’s tearful goodbye, chokes me up. Best friend hands off a goodie bag, I say goodbye and head to the security checkpoint. Wave goodbye and pass through the X-ray machines. One last glance. Good bye…

Restless the whole flight through, unable to sleep, praying the plane doesn’t go down, the whole 12 hour flight. Whole flight the iPod played "Wicked," Defying gravity.

Land. (phew!) Snow is on the ground. It’s cold, but beautiful. I take a deep breath and realize- I am not getting back on the plane for a return flight for a really really long time. Reality hits. The same way it hits when you belly flop into a pool.
I am graced with a two hour nap. Then off to Ikea. It’s a mad house and I am in a daze. I am supposed to be picking out apartment goodies- but I have no idea what my apartment looks like. I just want to be in my bed at home, my home in San Diego. My home where I know everything, and everyone knows me.

That night, I get my one free phone call. It’s to my two best friends. Me, balling. Words, unable to come out. But all I could keep thinking was, “I moved here!!! Why didn’t I realize I was MOVING! No friends, no family, no place to live. Nothing. Just the faith that it was all going to workout, but even that was quite a small faith and hidden under the blanket of fear and reality telling me everything I love is very very far away.”

Somewhere between this long and very vivid day, A LOT has happened. I have traveled to more fascinating places than I ever dreamed, I have flooded my apartment, I have fallen on my butt (literally in my weekend market), met great friends, fallen in love with the Frencheis, had great friends come visit, gone sky diving, lived by myself for a year, learned a basic amount of French, planned and ran large conferences, learned to drive roundabouts, know where to find the pickles in my grocery stores, tried more cheeses and wine than I had ever even consumed in the previous 24 years of my life, I know the difference between the N7, A6, N104, rather than the 5, 405, 78. I have been able to be like a Parisian and reference locations based on their arrondissement, made a quiche, climbed the stairs to basically every tourist attraction, and mastered how to not look like a total tourist at all times- though I am sure I still always look American. I have learned to take a step back and breathe when it all seems impossible. I have re-confirmed that if you want something- to go after it, initiative in all things, is key. But- also to slow down and enjoy the day, enjoy life. Sometimes the best ways to spend the day, is with slow walks and a picnic lingering by the Seine.

I am so so so blessed. I cannot believe how quickly this year has flown by, and how many memories and lessons have been packed into the 365 days. I feel like the same girl I did one year ago, who was sitting blissfully unaware of all that was about to take place the next day, one year ago. Though I am sure that girl- wouldn’t recognize who I am today in many ways. What makes the difference between this day, and the one that took place one year ago?

I know that when I wake up tomorrow, the foreign country I will wake up in, though it once again has been dusted with snow as a remembrance of one year ago, is a place I have come to love and call home.

Speaking "Friendly" French

2010-01-03T05:09:00.000-08:00

I would say my greatest challenge in learning to speak French, would be the learning of the proper sounds of French. While the French language may sound beautiful to most, I am genearally left repeating every work several times before getting the correct sound. Thus, not sounding to pretty to the le vrai Frenchies.

Now, while I believe that I am repeating the exact tone, inflection, and sound that a French person is speaking, their repetition of the eu, e, a, ou, qu, de, and such lead me to believe, they do not agree with me.

When I was away last week at my friends home, we would spend some time reading French together in efforts to help me with my pronunciation. It was very helpful for me, and I am sure very exhausting for my friend. After a bit of time we would have to put away the childrens book (yes CHILDRENS BOOK) and decide it was best if we just came back to this at another time.

Last night while watching friends, an episode came on that was the perfect example of the frenches and me- working on my speaking abilities. In the clip, I would be Joey, and Phoebee would be anyone who is French and has attempted to help me. My favorite part of this clip, is when Phoebee breaks down the sounds one by one and then speeds up the words. I cannot tell you how many times this exact same thing, has happened with me. Again, pretty much in any French conversation.

So without further ado... As told by Joey and Phoebee, here is the Frenchies and me, practicing French.

2010- Non Resolutions

2010-01-01T04:50:00.000-08:00

Oh January 1st – the beginning of making and breaking resolutions, promises, and declarations for the New Year. I personally have never been one to stick to my resolutions. Surprise, surprise. So this year- I am doing the opposite. I am not making resolutions I want to obtain, but rather contradict what I really would like to do. Like reverse psychology. For example if I have always said I am going to read one book a week- and failed, it’s just a failure to add on my list of things undone. BUT! If I say I will not read at all- reading anything would be a real success, but if I don’t read anything at all- I at least met my resolutions and no failing there. Sounds good to me! Really in life, just always set the bar low- that way you can just step right on over it with no effort at all, or just continue laying idly on the floor.

Thus I give you my Non-Resolutions of 2010!

- I want to read and watch no news ever. I do not need to know what is going on in the world. This year when my internet homepage opens to the New York Times, I will not stop to read the articles but continue to go directly to TMZ and get all the latest and greatest Hollywood gossip. Besides, who needs to know about what’s really going on in the world, when you can keep plenty of conversations going with the newest scandal of the day.

- I want to gain 20 pounds. Yes gain. No no no don’t gasp and think I am crazy. Crazy would be for the last 10 years resolving to lose 20 pounds, and then lose 5 gain 5. Lose 10 gain 10. That would be crazy. So I don’t want to lose weight – gain it. Take off the pressure and see what happens from there. Pain Chocolate here I come.

- Going with gaining weight- I want this year to be a year of sitting watching loads of t.v. and movies and not a single day of working out. I want to be a couch potato not a lean mean dancing machine. No more promising to workout ~~five~~ three days a week while filled with a lackluster attitude to actually accomplish the working out. I want no little beads of sweat to drip from this head for the next 365 days.

- GMAT. Psh! More like SnoooozeMat. In a month I am supposed to take the GMAT. All I want to do is fail. I also don’t want to get into any of the schools I am considering applying to. No overachieving for me this year. In fact- how about no studying at all. I mean do I really need to learn to speak French while living in France? What a silly question, cause I surely think not.

- When my alarm goes off- I give myself the freedom to continue to sleep an hour (or two) past the original sound off. Nothing is more pleasurable than waking up every five minutes to blaring bad music and hitting the snooze button, to cuddle up for more sleep. So no waking up when I am supposed to. I mean being late is just part of being human right? So here’s to being more human.

- And last but definitely the least of what I want this year, is a mighty fine man. My moto this year, “No Boys Allowed!” So please do me a favor and stay away all charming, loving, sweet, funny, hot, gorgeous boys. I just do not have time for you in my life and really just want to focus on myself, friends, and career. Having a boy in 2010 would just be too too much to handle. So this year- no boys. Of all the resolutions, this one is the one that must be abided to the most. There is no leeway- So sorry boys, this year- you are not going to be thought about, longed for, or flirted with. See you in 2011.

So I hope you all have success with your New Years Resolutions. But most importantly I hope that 2010 will be a start of a great year of personal, spiritual, physical, and emotional growth for you all. It’s a new year, a fresh start, and the dawning of a horizon of new opportunities for you.

Happy New Years!

Au Revoir 2009

2009-12-31T08:23:00.000-08:00

Photo by Tim Walker
Dear 2009,

Wow. What a year it has been! You have brought me many lessons, smiles, complications, thrills, joy, loneliness, and lots of new and matured love. You of all years, are a year that will be unforgettable. But the time has come to say goodbye. We must go our separate ways- when the clock strikes twelve like Cinderella you will flee and forever be a memory.

I remember when we met at the end of 2008 at Henessy’s, when I was surrounded with many of my great friends. It was an unforgettable night- our first moments together, you were lots of fun yet, I wasn’t sure what you would bring to me in the days and months ahead. I thought that I was losing everything when you arrived. Yet- you only enhanced everything that I did have. You only improved who I was.

There were days where loneliness loomed so heavy as a dark cloud I couldn’t see the hand in front of my face. But you stayed steady and constant passing time, to a moment where light and sunshine would appear. You would take days of gloom and turn them into the most unbelievable moments of my life. You have made the joy of my life, enhanced by the reality of looking beyond your current circumstance, and having joy in all circumstances.

With you I have conquered so many fears, seen the results of consistent hard work, and experienced lifetime daydreams, turn into a bigger than life, reality. Together we have made new great friends, seen parts of the world I never dreamed of, depended on the love of Christ more than ever, and grown deeper in the confidence of who I am and made to be. I don’t know what I am going to do without you. You strengthened me and I will be sad to see you go.

I laugh looking back at the moments of being utterly lost, stumbling around trying to make it through, and the crazy idea’s I have come up with as experiencing this time. Through rollerblading in the city, flooding my apartment, and speaking really bad French- you helped me find the beauty and humor in it all.

You brought friends to visit me whom I never expected would appear. Each of them bringing new special memories and blessings. I was honored that they could see and experience the small part of my life that was being created far away from my previous life in San Diego. It was special for me to see each of them partiake in this place that has so greatly changed me, and watch their faces glow as they too saw all the beauty 2009 and this city have to behold.

The new people you 2009 introduced to me, are quite incredible and without them this year would not have been the same. From those who helped me learn how to live in a foreign place, gave me a family when mine was so far away, helped me when I was helpless, and befriended me when I couldn’t speak a common word- each person will continue to live with me into the next year. And will always be a reason of insurmountable thankfulness in my heart.

I am not sure yet how we will part tonight. Part of me wants to be with those I was with when we met last year. Part of me wants to go into the city I have spent so much time with you in, another wants to stay home and reminisce of all the time that has gone by so quickly. Today I am overcome with a feeling of sentimentality because I have so many endearing feelings for this year. I am stuck in not wanting it all to come to an end, and desiring to hold on for forever. But, because of the growth and greatness you have given to me this year, makes me look brightly to the future of 2010.

So tonight, when the clock strikes 12:00 no matter where I am, I will be thinking of you 2009. And all the beauty you have possessed. You give me the confidence to walk boldly into the face of 2010 and all the future beauty, trials, love, and dreams that lie ahead there.

Thanks for such an amazing year!

Grosse Bissos
*Katie

The Ultimate French Test

2009-12-21T22:55:00.000-08:00

I have been fortunate to travel a ton this year with my job. I have seen many new places, interacted with several different cultures, and experienced something new in each place. While I have traveled to different countries, I have yet to see much of France. Sad I know!

Well my lovies, have no fear. I am stepping out of my Ile-de-France bubble and traveling to a new region today. I am going to Brittany on the west side of France, where I will be spending the remainder of the week.

For those of you who have been following me all year, you may remember this. Where I was ubberly excited to meet another 25 yr old girl at my dance class. Well, we actually have become great friends! Whoo hoo! And... she invited me to go to her home for Christmas. I can’t believe it, an invitation to a real French Christmas! I am so there.

I am excited to spend a week inside a French home, where my French speaking Faux Pas count is sure to sky rocket. But my ability to speak French, is also guaranteed to increase. I am excited to watch and learn how a French family interacts, and be a part of this family’s Christmas traditions. I am really honored that they would welcome me into their home for this special day.

I have packed- and determined I have way too much stuff. I have my laptop, a bag of gifts, my suitcase, and a bag just for coats. I look like I am going on an everlasting holiday. The thing is, I couldn’t cut anything out. I really tried. But this cold weather makes everything so bulky. Taking more than I can carry, became necessary. And when packing for the unexpected, you need to bring a little of everything just to be prepared.

So other than having too much stuff to carry, and terrified to speak all French all week. I am ecstatic about my adventure that starts today. I can’t wait to get back and share it all with you. This will be my ultimate French test. Eek!

Have a very Merry Christmas!Celebrating the birth of our savior with family and loved ones all around!
Bissos!

On the Champs Elysees...

2009-12-21T06:22:00.000-08:00

The weather is brisk. The pedestrians are cloaked in black from head to toe (except me- I didn’t get the memo). Quaint accents of buttons and scarf’s, is what sets each person apart within the sea of black. The long rows of trees where leaves once hung, are now marked by strands of bright twinkeling lights. There is a smell of cinnamon and cloves hovering in the air, and each booth you pass you are greeted with a friendly, “Bonjour!”

What is this fabulous place?

The Champs Elysees Christmas Markets.

The Champs Elysees is no stranger to people in the city of Pairs. It’s up there in the must sees and do’s for tourists, as the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. While the streets are continually bustling with cars, tourists, and shoppers- this time of year, the streets standard feeling of busyness, has been replaced with one of a congenial merriment.

The beginning of the markets on the Champs Elysees is marked by a Ferris wheel that illuminates the open air market. The wheel is massive in size and can easily be spotted from any place along the boulevard.

In the evenings, the market is busy, but not over crowded. It is cool and damp as Paris should be at Christmas time. It is not pouring and freezing, which would turn any outdoor event into miserable experience. With all the delights you are filled around, you forget it is cold outside, but it’s befitting to be bundled up as you linger up and down the Christmas stalls.

As you walk along the streets, passing vendors selling chocolates, teas, and other Christmas treats; you are continually aware of your senses and how they change from booth to booth. Depending on which booth you are passing, you are enveloped in the smells of chocolate, Cinnamon from the Vin Chaud, or scents from the candles burning. Each smell enticing you to stop, look, and even better to buy, whatever is creating the irresistible fragrance.

I generally tire quickly and promptly become overwhelmed with shopping and markets. But this market was something different. There was a calm and peaceful affect to this market. As soon as I exited the metro and saw the lights, giving a glow to the streets, I could only stand and taken in the beauty of the streets. I then vowed that one day, I will spend a Christmas with my family in Paris. It is so beautiful, and an experience that I wish for everyone to be able to have in their memories.

I love Paris at Christmas time!

(Nicole- this pic is just for you)

Oh Christmas Tree!

2009-12-21T05:40:00.000-08:00

O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
Much pleasure thou can'st give me;
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!

Inside Galerie Layfayette, hovering above the loveliest makeup department- is the most beautiful of all Christmas Tree's. Floating high above, turning the entire 5 floor department store into a magical Christmassy feel.

Being Intentional

2009-12-19T17:18:00.000-08:00

You know that person, the one you don't really know, but you do...

You know their face, their smile, and know about them because your friends know them. You know conversations that others thought were funny, you know projects they have been a part of, and you know that they are a really cool person, one that when you are around, you like to take the opportunity to get to know. But until then you are content in knowing you “know” them.

You can pass them and do the quick greet hello and when you see them interacting with people, you can see that everyone genuinely enjoys being around them. But life is busy- and so you personally don’t ever get to know them the way you like. You may think of them occasionally but they are more of a reference point to when someone else speaks of them. But they are always spoken of in a positive way.

My heart broke today when I found out that one of these people that I don’t know, but do know, died this week. It’s impossible to imagine someone who I always watched from afar, who was always so filled with life, is no longer alive. I have spent the last few hours reading sweet memories attributed to him, and my heart breaks for those I do know, who fully knew him. For those whose stories I have heard, for those who I watched laugh and love and live in his presence, and for those who were close to someone so passionate and amazing.

After going through, reading stories, and browsing pictures posted in his memory- I know that many people are both mourning and rejoicing. Mourning for their personal loss but rejoice knowing He is in heaven with his Father. All people attested of the faith Justin had in his life, but weep knowing someone so authentic is no longer in their life.

One of the things I have thought has been severely over-reacted to this year, was the swine flu. Every time I travel it becomes an issue and I think, “It’s the flu, what damage could it possibly do?” My friend had a play and everyone who attended had to wear a face mask. I laughed and thought it was ridiculous. We were joking about that just last night.

I have known 5 people to catch the swine flu- all perfectly fine. But all it takes is one. And number 6, was not fine. One of his friends wrote this, “Justin Key died on Monday, early in the morning, in one of the most boring ways possible - he got the flu. This may not seem remarkable if you have never met the guy, but for those of us who know him, this too seems nearly impossible to believe... Justin did everything with a twist.”

I honestly am not sure if my mind can comprehend that he died of the swine flu. Almost like it’s not really true. Simply from what I knew of Justin to be true, I could know that the flu- is just the most improbable way for him to finish his race. He ran passionately, strongly, intelligently, and joyfully.

Justin was my age. We graduated from the same University and the same year. We shared friends. For four year I saw him on campus, in the dorms, library, the café. And after graduation, I never saw him again.

I have spent these last few weeks with friends, thinking of what was ahead in life, where I was now, and where I wanted to go from here. I am sure these are the same conversations Justin has been having with his friends. As it seems to be conversations many people in this stage in life are pondering. Yet with Justin, it seems prematurely aborted. How does someone go from being at the top of their platform of potential, and ready to soar, to being finished with this end of life. I am not sure I get it. And I am not sure if I am supposed to.

What I do know, is Justin must have been amazing. Because even as someone who wasn’t super close, But who knew his stories, his face, smile, and shared memories. I too am heartbroken.

May I live a life as purposeful, bountiful, faithful, joyful and meaningful as the one I saw lived through Justin.

The Joy and Wonderment of Snow

2009-12-17T08:20:00.000-08:00

The snow is falling softly on the roofs and avenues throughout the French towns. Smoke is quietly escaping the tops of chimneys, and inside the homes, there life is filled with love, warmth, and joy.

Something about the falling of snow makes you stop and watch in wonderment. It brings out the giddy child in us all. You reach out to have the soft cold flakes land upon your hand, to quickly melt and magically turn into a drop of water, smaller than a tear of cheer.

Plush white snow everywhere, frosts the homes with refreshing color, ushering in the breathtaking natural winter adornment. As the snow lands it is perfectly layered and formed together like a beautiful freshly frosted cupcake. The snow falls silently, calling all to a moment of silence, as it is a holy initiation of the season.

You can stay inside and watch the snow gently linger in the air until it makes a soft landing. Or abandon the safe comforts of warmth, and embrace the fresh crisp air, and frolic outdoors in a refreshingly youthful manner. It is the time when snowmen to come to life, fights with snowballs brings shouts of laughter and delight, or lying in a plush pile of snow while spreading your limbs, creates an everlasting snow angel. At least one, that will abide forever, as a tangible reminiscence of winters first snow.

Eventually, the cold will chill your bones, delivering the invitation and reminder of heat and comfort that fills your home. Running back quickly you dust off the flakes that have detailed your coat, hat, and mittens. Upon blinking your realize that chilled sparkles remain on your eyelashes and wipe them off, without disrupting their flawless form. You’re hands that remained toasted from the protection of gloves, feel alive at the touch of your brisk rosy cheeks. You smile at the remembrance of the day and the expectancy of the warmth that welcomes you in.

This is the joy and wonderment, of Snow!

Good Morning!

2009-12-17T01:43:00.000-08:00

IT'S SNOWING!!!!

I bet Kujo is cooooold! HA!

"It's so Pretty!"

Tell me about it all

2009-12-16T02:09:00.000-08:00

My mind spins around in a million different directions, each and every day. I can barely keep up. Since this is one area I have been neglecting, I will give little tid bits, that could each be their own blog, that I hope to come back to soon, but don’t want to forget that they have happened. So here we go!

I love and adore my friends in French. And I love and adore even more that I can say, believe, and know it’s true, that I have friend here in France. My Frenchie and Lux pals, are the greatest things, and I love learning from them. We are each unique and different from one another, and I love love love spending time with them. It makes each experience here all the more memorable and comforting knowing I have someone to share the memory with.

Going with my first thought, I love that there are two of them. All of my close friends since childhood have always come in pairs of two, and I love that in the groups of three we balance one another out. There was Katie and Megan, Lena and Jimmy, Kacey and Christine, Kendal and Len, Megs and Nicole, Ashly and Andrea, Brigitte and Cynthia, and now Clarisse and Annie. I am such a blessed girl to have these lovelies as my friends. I loooooooove my friends!

It’s freezing. And not just my mom constantly telling me to “take a Jacket,” type of cold. It’s literally freezing. Not wearing a jacket, is not an option. You will be frozen into place, and left to chill until someone brings out a massive heater or blow drier to defrost you. My computer tells me it’s currently is zero degree’s Celsius. Which means that it’s 32 degrees Fahrenheit and that means it’s FREEZING literally! And thus- I. AM. FROZEN.

No one makes being frozen look better than the French. The city has turned into a sea of black boots and trendy black coats. Scarves linger around every woman’s neck, and hats to match to keep their heads sheltered and genial. They are chic, while making the bundled up look flawless with great poise and ease.

While the French woman walk down the streets in their Haut Couture, I am bundled under a pile of blankets, socks, beanies, and sweaters while huddled next to my wall heater. The wall heater is my new best friend. I had resolved not to use it. But once Zero arrived, I no longer could resist.

Christmas is 9 days away! This is exciting!!! I loooooove Christmas time. And Christmas looks good on France. The lights on the streets at night, bring in warmth and joy to the frosty wintry days.

I just mailed my mini Christmas gifts home. I really hope they make it to my parents house on time. Sadly, I am pretty sure the shipping of the box cost more than the contents themselves… but I couldn’t bare not sending some Christmas cheer to my family this year.

My town rocks! I love my little town. For so many reasons. The main reason it get's the shout out today of all days is because you can ice skate on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. You can Ice Skate in front of Hotel De Ville in Paris. Or... You can Ice Skate in front of the Hotel De Ville in Corbeil Essonnes. I have a beautiful city hall in my town, that looks picture perfect French, and now with twinkeling lights, a giant christmas tree, and an Ice Skating rink!!! What more could a girl enjoy!?

Chocolate Mousse

2009-12-11T02:50:00.000-08:00

Looking for something quick and easy and a great crowd pleaser for a Christmas par-tay this year? Then look no further than the oh so delicious French Chocolate Mousse. This reciepe is amazing easy and incredibly delectable for any of your regal events! And lucky for you, I’ve already made all the mistakes one could possibly make on my first go around. So I have all the tips for what you “should not do,” and then all of your makings will be like my second batch- absolute mousse perfection!
What you need!

- 5 eggs separate the whites and the yolks
- 6 0z of your favorite chocolate
- 1 tsp vanilla extract. (or for Christmas I think peppermint would be nice.)

The Steps!
1. Take your egg whites and whip them into a fluff. Not stiff but to the point where they peak.
2. Mix the egg yolks to the color of lemon
3. Melt the chocolate and add in the egg yolks and extract flavor of choice.
4. Mix in 1/3 of the egg yolk peaks with the chocolate mixture.
5. Fold in the remaining egg whites to the chocolate mixture.
6. Pour into your serving dishes and place in the refrigerator.

What to and NOT TO DO!
- When mixing the egg whites to get your peaks. Use a Metal Bowl. DO NOT USE a plastic bowl.

- Use an electric mixer or the awesome kitchen aid DO NOT USE a hand wire whisk. While you may start seeing biceps forming on your arm, you will not find peaks in your eggs, especially if you are using a wire whisk with the plastic bowl.

- Do make them the day you need them. These are great for one to three days. But after that… they lose their mousseyness and aren’t as lovely for the guests. But for your own guilty pleasure. Enjoy as long as you wish.

- If you did not listen to the two tips above- be sure to then NOT take the pathetic egg whites and place them in a food processor hoping that it will work like a kitchen aid and save the day. It won’t. And then you will have a smells batch of over chopped egg whites.

- Moral of the story- Stick with a metal bowl, hand mixer, and a double boiler to melt the chocolate and your chocolate mousse will be perfection in ten minutes or less.

- And don’t forget to enjoy ever enjoyable experience!

Pierre's Roses

2009-12-09T05:50:00.000-08:00

When I was home shortly in April, my besties and I were driving up to Los Angeles to get my official Visa to stay in France. Along our four hour travel journey, there was a program on the Radio called, “Ryan’s Roses.”

The basic set up of “Ryan’s Roses,” is to show was a skieze bucket boys can be. We had a few good laughs, but mostly at how dramatic each couple reacted.

Yesterday afternoon, I was driving home from work and actually fully understood the conversation on the radio and it went something like this.

Pierre (aka. The radio DJ): Hi Clarisse how are you today?

Clarisse (the suspicious girlfriend): sniff sniff. Not good. I think my boyfriend Matthieu (pronounced like Ha-chew (when you sneeze) But with the name Matt) is cheating on me.

Pierre: Oh nooooo.

Clarisse- Yah. Sniff sniff

Pierre: Are you sure you want to find out the truth?

Clarisse- Yes. Sniff sniff.

Pierre: Okay well then here we go (dial tone)

Now, Pierre will call Matthieu offer him a free dozen roses to any girl of his choice, completely free. Or so Matthiew thinks….

Ring Ring.

Matthieu (The Skieze Bucket): Bonjour!

Pierre: Hi, I am so and so from such and such and you have been “randomly” selected to win a free dozen roses to be sent to any one you wish.

Matthieu: Free? You sure?

Pierre: Yes free! All you have to do is give us a name, and a message. And we will send the roses completely free.

Matthieu: Great. Can you send them to Sophie.

Pierre: And the message?

Matthieu: I miss you, and can’t wait to see you again.

Pierre: Oh can you hold on a Second?

Matthieu: sure

Pierre: Clarisse, do you know who Sophie is?

Clarisse: No. Sniff Sniff. Matthieu- you are cheating on me?! Sniff sniff

Matthieu: I don’t know what you are talking about? Are you crazy? Trying to catch me cheating on you? You are crazy!

Clarisse: Sniff Sniff. We are over.

This is essentially the exact same dialog I listened to on “Ryan’s Roses” just a few months ago. Proff that, whether in Cali or Paris, boys are retarded.

Now, I am not around to listen to the program in the U.S, and Just now understood the dialogs taking place here. So my question is, How have the boys around the world not yet caught on to the program? Even I know if you are offered roses… you better say your girlfriend or you are going to be busted in T-minus 5 seconds. Or you shouldn’t be a cheating!!! Lame.

I could handle

2009-12-04T02:54:00.000-08:00

Enough already!

I could handle the retarded drama.

I could handle scratching the car and needing to get it fixed.

I could handle getting a speeding ticket.

I could handle getting a parking ticket. (maybe I just shouldn’t drive any more.)

I could handle not being home for Christmas.

I could handle the one facebooker I wish would just go away.

I could handle shivering in my apartment at night because I can’t find the source of the breeze that blows through. And it’s freezing here. (but seriously... where is this breeze coming from?!)

I could handle waking up late for French class.

I could handle the stress of work.

I could handle scrapping by to pay rent.

I could handle the daily dropping of the dollar to the Euro. (today 1.5 dollar to the Euro)

I could handle missing my friends from home, and all of our Christmas traditions, and exciting things going on there.

I could handle everything else- better to not keep focusing on the downs cause there are goods. but...

I COULD NOT HANDLE HAVING MY LUNCH POPING OPEN (while driving to work) AND MAKING A REAKING MESS OUT OF MY JACKET.

Yes- an entire serving of Beef and broccoli all over a jacket I have only worn twice.

RUINED!!!

The straw has broken this camel’s back today.

Hurry please a new and refreshing day- I could use some more good- I am much more pleasant this way.

I got the finger

2009-12-03T09:08:00.000-08:00

The waving one that is...

I should have known, that posting about legal driving signs in France, would jinx me. But I did it anyways and today, or rather in three days, I will be paying the price. Literally.

To get to my French class I take the A6 (a well known French highway) out to Fontainebleau. Along the portion of the A6 I drive, the speed limit is 130 Kilometers per hour. However, there are portions that are 110KmPH and even 90KmPH.

This morning while driving to class, I was driving happily BELOW the 130 speed limit and watching for the three radar warning boards I see along my way to class each week. As I am driving along, I see a blue Germanderie van pull into the lane beside the lane I am in, and I continued to follow behind four other cars. Just as in the United States, the French driver’s reaction was to break with the sudden appearance of La Policia. Each car passed the van cautiously and as it was my turn to pass the van that seemed to be going quite slowly, I look to my left and see the officer not turning on his lights to pull me over, but rather, WAVING HIS FINGER AT ME!!!! Telling me, “No. No. No. No. Noooo..” Seriously, Are you waving your finger at me???!!! The van then pulled in front of me, turned on his lights and had me follow him for equivalent of 3 miles.

When the officer “pulled me over,” he began speaking, too quickly and I couldn’t understand. He then held up his radar gun informing me I was driving, 117 KmPH when I had just entered unbe-knowingly from a 130KmPH zone to a 110KmPH zone. In my defense I could not have been going much faster than any other car on this road because I was following FOUR other cars! Whatever the case- I won’t make this mistake again.

However, I tried my best and explained that I was thought the speed limit was 130KmPH. It didn’t matter, I broke the law. I was going to be given a ticket. This ticket would be Quatre-vingt dix Euro (HUH?!- Repetez S’il vous plait!) 90 Euros or… 135 US DOLLARS!!! Yikes! Not only was the ticket 90 Euros, but I would need to pay Maintainant (now). What? Don’t I get a ticket in the mail? No, no, no, no. (waving finger) You must pay with a check. Well, my dear French police officers, I am an American and I have no French Checks, what do we do now?

A new dilemma for them, but a small one compared to others that I am skipping for your benefit. How could I pay, if I did not have a check for them now? They then asked if I had my address on a piece of paper. I started digging through my purse for a blank sheet of paper and a pen. I find a pen, and ask if I can get out of the car, to go to the trunk, to get the paper. I am permitted. I go to the trunk, open my back pack, and pull out a notebook of paper. They immediately stop me, wave their fingers again and say, “no, no, no, no, no.” They wanted a piece of paper that PROVED I lived here! Oh Duh!!! I am sure I looked ridiculous to them.

By the slimmest of chances in the world, I had actually grabbed all of my documents today before leaving my apartment to take care of some other tedious detail- and just happen to have my proof of my Apartment lease in my car. I never, repeat NEVER have this with me…. And I should have never have grabbed it this morning, it could have saved me the 90 Euros- cause then how else could they have trusted or found me, to send me my fine. Especially if they weren’t going to trust me writing it on a scrap piece of paper for them. I mean who wouldn’t trust a foreigner, giving them an address to send the ticket, when they are in a car belonging to someone else, and caught speeding, saying they didn’t realize the speedlimit was slower than the rate they were driving? I mean, I think I sounded perfectly legitimate, especially stumbling over all of my broken French. For Sure! Regardless, I handed them my apartment lease and they were pleased.

The two officers then disappeared into their van and wrote up my ticket.

When they returned, they told me I would receive my ticket in three days, and wished me a pleasant day. They were actually quite nice. And I attest they are excellent finger wavers. I just found the whole situation humorous and keep thinking of how ridiculous I must have looked to them. But probably just as ridiculous as, I find being charged 135 dollars for going the equivalent of 4MPH over the speed limit. Yes 4!

In other better news for you my readers. One of my lovely followers Angie sent me the real meanings of the signs I joked about yesterday. So, for the real meanings of the signs you can look back and see the true meanings posted in Blue.

Happy Safe and Slow Driving! And remember, next time an officer waves his finger at you, it means you are being pulled over.

No, no, no, no, nooooooooooo!

It's a Sign!

2009-12-02T02:14:00.000-08:00

Driving in France you get to see, learn and abide by new road signs. Over time I have come to find many of the signals the French give to their drivers quite interesting and thought that today I would share some with you, in case you too ever find yourself driving around France.
*** I do not know the real meanings of this signs (other than #1 and #3, these are my interpretations***

1. The first and most important sign is an "efficient" (or speedy) drivers best friend:

This sign is your best friend if you are like me and feel the need for speed. The sign is a warning of the speed limit and letting you know that one of these is up ahead.

If you did not listen to your Best Friend above then this guy will be your worst enemy. He's like the paparazzi of speeding cars. Always there to flash his bright lights at you. However, you won't see your picture posted in next weeks addition of US weekly's "Their just like us," but rather, will receive a 100 euro speed ticket with in a week or two. So, my personal advice, watch for the first sign, and keep your hundred euro to buy yourself something pretty.

2. Do Not Drive on the Water. I didn't know it was an option for cars to drive on water, but apparently there are appropriate and inappropriate places to do so. Real meaning: Road closed to vehicles carrying water polutable chemicals

3. When entering a highway, naturally the cars entering on the right need to merge with the cars on the left. However, as you come to a merge point on a highway on your Left you will see this sign: Do Not Turn Right

While simultaneously on your right you will see this sign: Do not Turn Left.

What is great about these signs on every merge ramp is that you actually do not even have the option to turn left or right. If you turned left or right in these straight lanes you would smash into a wall or be in direct traffic. My mom particularly loved this, when she was visiting and every time we were in a merging area and these signs were posted she would point and say, "Don't turn left here. Don't turn right here," and then begin to chuckle at her joke. Now whenever I drive past these signs I laugh and think of her.

4. Cars with loose screws will become unhinged, and turn into a stick of butter. Real meaning: Road closed to trailers transporting harmful materials.

Last but certainly not least is my favorite of all favorite signs and like a child giggle every time I see it.

5. Exploding Vehicles Ahead. Apparently there are planted mines on certain highways and you must be careful not to hit one or your car just might explode, and that would be a disaster. Real meaning: suggesting that there may be vehicles carrying explosive material.

The Look

2009-11-28T15:56:00.000-08:00

After looking through my friend's engagement pictures I found this old poem and thought they would go well together. You should also check out Jasmine Star's photography. I am a bit obsessed with wedding engagement shots, but that's just cause I love LOVE! Enjoy!

How did all this time go by- and I not realize how special you were?

Now that I know, how do I live and love without you?

There are so many questions that rage on and on in my mind and the one it comes back to is, will I ever be able to call you mine? So many reasons I want to shout, ‘Yes!’ And so many more than make me cower away…

It’s true that life is funny in the way that it twists and turns. I am here, you are there. I am there, and then you are away. Yet- our paths cross and meet and then it’s like the two of us never miss a beat.

When you hug me I get lost in your strength, when I look in your eyes I get lost in the depth, and when you speak I get lost in your words.

For someone who all people see as so carefree, with my heart I stand fully guarded. It’s a blessing and a curse – but if I risk losing you forever- I risk losing a part that helps make me stay so lighthearted and filled with glee.

I hate the complications other than myself that hold me back. Some call it loyalty- I call it faithfulness. No matter the reason, It’s a difficult decision to logically standby, but deep down I do know that it’s right. To make you my sacrifice of love for something I am not sure ever was or is still there. But with the hope that it’s true, I chose to lose you.

There will be great love out there for us both. When I see you with the girl you currently adore and hear the way you speak of her, I smile and think, ‘she is so lucky.’ One day you will see me and the way I look at my future him, and realize it is the same way…

I used to look at you.

Snipits of Thanks

2009-11-26T15:17:00.000-08:00

We each have something to be thankful about. Some more than others. Today I have been overwhelemed with joy, love and thankfulness looking back and reflecting on this last year. I think this year I have had the most in my face experience of things to be thankful for. This list is only the smallest glimpse into the things I am thankful for this day. I love my life. I am thankful for the good time and the trials I go through that make my life worth fighting for, and for those who love me. May you and your family have a very Happy Thanksgiving!

I am thankful for:

Unexpected cards and words of encouragement

Laughs that make my side ache

Tight hugs from loved ones

Bisous from the French

The lady at my local Boulangerie

Getting to the Boulangerie when fresh baguettes are being distributed

Long phone conversations with my Best friends

The dance class that brought me my first, second, and third French friend.

“The Seine”

My daily email of joy

The prayers of each supporter from home

The adventures that each new day has the potential to bring

My parents visit

Quotes

Even better- being quoted.

Each visitor that has come and been part of my experience here- and the individual
memories we have created. They each have had an imprint on my time here.

Internet in my apartment

That each crazy nuts-o event that’s happened in this last year… worked itself out in
time, and I am alive to tell about it, and laugh in the foolishness my learning curve.

My ten minute phone conversation with my brother today.

My French tutor

All of the flower shops that line the streets in Paris

My blog, to capture this year and all my lovely followers

The joy and ability to have lived in a place to watch the changing of the four seasons- and each one be dynamically different and beautiful from one another.

Ikea

The fact that I can use Christmas colors in this blog- cause the Holiday season has officially begun.

God’s love and grace in my life

Having the funnest Aunt's in the whole world

Warm drinks on a cold day

Ice. Lots and lots of ice. Oh and ketchup too.

Surviving the jump

The ability to look back and smile at this last year- and see all the growth

Cute boys. Now if I can find one to keep!

The joy of looking expectantly and joyfully towards the future

Pretty scarves and warm warm warm coats

That the season of joy and love is here!

When to start the holiday season?

2009-11-24T15:01:00.000-08:00

I am sure it is no secret in the United States that this week kicks off the “holiday season.” With our first traditional holiday of Thanksgiving. For logical reasons Thanksgiving is a holiday that belongs to the United States and is not celebrated in France. So my ever so serious question I have to pose is: As an American living in France, how in the heck am I supposed to know when I can officially start off my holiday season?

While Thanksgiving is a sweet cozy holiday to me, it also marks many important, “It’s okay now to’s” for me. I never realize how much a a cutting the ribbon ceremony of the holiday season played, until this holiday was taken away.
I mean seriously how am I to know when it is suddenly okay for me to listen to Mariah Carey’s, Nsync’s, and Jessica Simpson’s holiday CD’s all the time. And I mean ALL the time. And no one say a thing about it? Other than the obvious friendly sing alongs.

How will I know while living in an area of dominantly apartments, that it’s now okay to start hanging up my Christmas lights? And… where will all those massive blow up Snowmans that are normally in the front yard go? I am sure it is much, much too big for my flower pot hanger outside of my window.

One fall back I could usually depend on, to know the season of joy and love is coming, if nothing else is the internal bliss of Starbucks winter drinks! Mmmmm so delicious- but with the fact that the two corners of my town are not landmarked by a Starbucks, this indicator is missing as well.

Coming from California we are generally graced with one day of rain and an afternoon of cozy sweaters to remind us of the lovely winter, Christmas “chill.” But being bundled up and always having an umbrella in tow, What will mark these winter days different from the rest?

When I wake up on Thursday, how will I really know if it is Thanksgiving , if when I turn on the TV the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, isn’t what’s on my tellie? Can it really be thanksgiving without high school bands, cheesy banter, and a giant Mr. Potato head balloon? I don’t think so!

Have no fear- I do have a place to eat the traditional thanksgiving feast. I was invited by a South African family to show them the traditional Thanksgiving meal. Today when discussing what time she will be putting in the turkey, I was given the following response, “A turkey? Oh… Did I need a Turkey? I don’t know how to cook one of those, I just thought we would do two chickens? Will that work?” I laughed. Of course it will work- but the question comes in- is it a traditional thanksgiving meal without the TURKEY?!?!?! Isn’t the turkey what makes this meal a bit different from the rest? How can I eat my leftover turkey and cranberry roll sandwiches’ for the next three days without a gobble gobble Turkey?

What will I do in the morning when I go outside and there is not a MASSIVE 20 pound newspaper sitting on my parents driveway jam packed with all the sales for the next day? What will keep me entertained and give me a plethora of paper cuts from all the pages I have to flip through? And how will my parents know what I want if I am unable to circle and tab all the best ads for them?

Without the forest equivalent of tree waste to flip through, I could always fall back on the great american tradition of Football!!! Go Chargers! Oh wait… that’s not going to work either. (But- I am very thankful the Chargers dominated the Broncos this last week. Sorry for the side note- I had to be thankful for something in this post.)

When Friday rolls around, how will my body know it’s OKAY to sleep in? That I don’t have to worry about being awake a 3:00 a.m. to stand in line for the latest and greatest electronic gadgets for my closest loved one. Stores in France NEVER open before 10:00. I will just be a silly ol’ girl standing outside of Fnac (Their version of ‘Best Buy’) or Galerie Lafayette (Their version of an even better ‘Macy’s’), saying “Open. Open. Open.”

And as I stand out in the cold waiting for the doors to rush open to signify the mass consumerism that takes over our holiday season and the day known as “Black Friday,” Eventually a Frenchie who knows how this “New American in France,” withdrawal routine goes, will walk by and say to a friend, “Silly Americaine, she must be new. We don’t have Turkeys in stock in November, and we most certainly don’t wake up and stand outside of a department store for a sale that will not exist.”

So to all those American traditions that mark the start of the holiday season. Enjoy Thursday to the fullest with loads of turkey, Christmas music, a Starbuck’s Peppermint Mocha, looking at all the ads, and most importantly all of your family on this lovely day! Or, as N’sync would say, “Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!” Cause you know come Friday, I will be rocking this CD!

My Small Double Life

2009-11-23T11:26:00.000-08:00

Living here or I should say working here I have two lives. The first I call my normal persons life. I live in France, I wake up in France, go to work in France, come home still in France. Then Repeat.

Then there are my out of the country work days which equals, leaving in a hotel for on average two weeks. During this life I am working from the moment I wake up (and requires me to wake up earlier than normal by a minimum of two hours) till the moment I make it to my room to passout. Then repeat for a hectic 14 days.

When I am not in my office and in another land for work- I am generally working a conference. Working conferences there are so many details that require attention and immediate to dos, that you never get to just sit back and be done. Granted there are secessions that do not require your attendance per say- but really… you do have to be present, just in case something comes up and you must run to get another thing done.

In all honesty, I love the conference itself much more than the preplanning of the conference work. It’s much more interactive, on your feet, and interesting to be a part of. But at the end of it- I.Am. Exhausted. This is not me complaining. Trust me. I am simply stating the fact. But, I love the fast pace, looking back realizing it’s all a blur, and the “ I can’t believe we just pulled that off” feeling.

I am saying this for those whom I have received the, “Are you okay? Why are you M.I.A?” messages from in the absence of me posting a blog. I have not posted, not because I have deserted this page of mine. But because my fingers have not had the time to the type words, that my brain has not even had the time to think about writing in the first place. I will not desert the blog, that I promise. It is one of the small pieces of sanity I keep with me here- far far away from that place in Sunny San Diego, I call home.

Oh and for those who asked- thanks for missing me. I love and miss you too!

The Watchers

2009-11-12T07:27:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I wrote about being at a hotel in Turkey working out and having this German lady stop her work out and then come stand by my machine for the duration of my 30 minute run. I thought it was very odd.

Well this week I am back at that very same hotel. Two days ago I walked into the workout room where an elderly couple were sitting riding bikes. I hopped on the elliptical, plugged into my iPod and started my workout. Two minutes later the German couple got up from their bikes and stood also to my left shoulder and began saying words I could not understand. I had complete Déjà vu!

The last two days I have gone to the gym the couple has not been there, but they HAVE been walking past the workout room, turned around, and STOOD in the doorway and watched me work out again, saying gibberish I cannot comprehend. Maybe they don’t realize I can see them through the mirror reaction. But they stand their nonetheless chatting to one another and at me.

WHAT IS IT!?!?! Seriously- why can I not work out here with out these people standing behind me speaking in words I don’t understand? It not something fun to watch I can assure you that- it’s not that exciting to do in the first place. I cannot comprehend what they are thinking. I am sure they are trying to be encouraging, but really… It’s just kinda odd and creepy.

Sour Lemons

2009-11-12T02:02:00.000-08:00

“When life hands you a lemon, make lemonade!”

But what if you are the one that added the lemons to your life in the first place?

Last week, I was in love with life and everything around me. Probably the high I had after surviving the skydiving extravaganza. But this week, has been a tough one. I have been challenged in many areas of my life, and with many friendships I do hold dear.

I am teetering on finding the balance between doing the thing that was right for me to do, being open to correction, and making right the pain it all caused. I am having conversations with friends that need to be had. And listening to words they need to speak. Honesty during an open wound hurts, but it’s best to get it all extracted rather than having to open it all back up later. I sure hate being stitched back up to health.

I have cried many tears. Cried for the loss of trust, cried for the false comments, and cried for the shame of holding back for so long. I don’t look for sympathy, I accept the responsibility.

All I can do at this point is trust that God is in control. That His knowledge surpasses mine, and that I faithfully walk in His path. It’s all hard, but it’s a good hard.

Life was sweet last week. And this week it is a bit more sour, but in the end when the sweetness returns it will make the sweetness remembered that much better.

This time last week

2009-11-07T04:11:00.000-08:00

This exact time last week we were jumping out of a plane together!

We headed off to Interlaken and Stayed at Balmer's Hostel

Saturday Morning we woke up and went on a nice hike in the local area- having fun and enjoying all the beautiful colors of fall.

Stopping along the way to play and climb natures playground.

We then loaded up in the van and headed for our Drop zone.

We were trained in how to fall properly

And I was given a pep talk by a lil 4 year old girl yelling at me "TO BE BRAVE!"

We all enjoyed the spectacular views while going up

Though I was actually just really scared and held tight to Bob's arm and Annie's hand. Hoping that my gripping them I wouldn't die.

Falling out and going DOWN I was even more petrifed! But, now looking back safely on the ground the time of my life.

We landed and tackled one another because we SURVIVED!

Our first photo being back safe and sound on the ground.

The next day- was a calm and relaxing one. Strolls through the town and a cute little village watching all the para-sailers in the sky.

I deviously threw grapes

We watched adorable lil lambies

We played on playgrounds made for children, so we decided to act and play like kids once again.

Bob was taught to not taunt or push girls.

While Annie learned that Bob taunts girls.

We chowed down on some delicious schnitzle but left once the spider appeared.

And then headed home back to our world of reality.This time last week was the best weekend of my life- we all had so much fun together that I have to relive it all again right now!

Something To Be Proud Of.

2009-11-05T05:59:00.000-08:00

You put your heart out there and were vulnerable for the first time. I know that’s scary and that it hurts now, but be satisfied in knowing that you tried. Love doesn’t always work out for the first time around. Actually it’s more rare for that to be the case. But you have a beautiful heart and the Lord will bring you a man with an incredible story to tell. You are an example of patience, faith, and love. Don’t lose hope, he’s out there, somewhere.

I can’t imagine the strength to do what you have. I am not so sure I would have the same strength. Life may look really hazy right now but you will land on your feet and most likely a giant smile on your face laughing in the end. You are a bright light and a joy to be around. You are strong, much strong than you give yourself credit for.

What an experience. Watching you explore, discover, and learn has been a joy. You take the small tasks and turn it into something fun. When parts of your trip went wrong you didn’t give up but tried again and succeeded. It’s not over for you, I am sure you will continue to travel, search, “and know everything” but it’s been great witnessing the first time around.

You have faced many great challenges this year and have stood up to each and every one of them. You have given up an addiction and fought for a better life. You have stood by your family through difficult times, and every day you work harder to making your life better. Keep pushing on.

You have made it so far. I can’t believe you will be leaving France soon. You took a risk in leaving home for a great opportunity and now you are thriving. Through the loss of family members, roommates, and many others you have stuck it out when others have run away. Keep going strong your almost finished and will need that same strength to leave and return home.

Each of these people should know who they are but don’t need to be named. I am proud of so many of my friends and what they do in life, but these are just a few of the extraordinary at this point and time. I will always be each of their biggest cheerleaders! Who are you proud of, let them know or participate in Mamakat’s workshop.

Stray Thoughts

2009-11-04T03:35:00.000-08:00

I am supremely blessed with life at this moment. France is flourishing with color and life from the changing of seasons. I have been blessed to spend a great amount of time with a friend from home, while also bringing together and fitting into my life here with friends of the present.

I am impressed with the character and strength some of my friends have possessed. While being able to laugh and cry through conversations- but even with the difficulty of life, I am able to rest confidently on the knowledge that all things will work out, because God is in control.

I was able to take an adventurous trip with friends. I usually travel for the purposes of work, and when I see groups of girls walking around with their bags I think, “What amazing memories these girls are building.” This weekend I was able to have that experience and I will forever treasure it.

Work is busy and satisfying. I see great purpose in what I am doing and like watching things work out and come together.

This week I have been very reflexive on life, friends, family. I am overwhelmed with how fortunate of a person I am to be surrounded with such great people. Life isn’t always easy or pretty but it is a grand ride. I am so happy I have who I do, to carry me through.

There are many things none of us could ever pretend to understand- but when things start changing- I believe something great is on the brink of the horizon. I have faith. I know and believe it all will settle into something new and something beautiful on this journey of life.

Catacombs

2009-10-29T12:27:00.000-07:00

If your in Paris for the Halloween weekend and looking for the perfect creepy scary thing to do, then look no further than the Catacombs.

In 1788 the bodies buried in cemeteries needed to be dug up and replaced due to public diseases, and the earth decomposing in the surrounding areas. The solution was to unbury the dead and place them in an underground tunnel network, which remains under Paris today.

Walking into the Catacombs, you will wait in a line as any other exhibition here in Paris. However, after you enter, it is unlike any other experience you will find here in Paris. You will initially descend down a narrow stair case winding down, down, down 130 steps of stairs.

Once you reach the tunnels of the catacombs, you begin a thirty minute walk in silence and darkness. On the walls of the tunnels are small light lit lanterns, giving off just enough light, for you to see your way, but keeping a dark and somber tone. The path is narrow, the ceiling will rise and fall along with the floor, at times requiring you to duck through a passage way and to be cautious of your step.

After a slow eerie walk through the tunnels you turn the corner and be faced with what you are about to enter- “Arrete! C’est ici l’empire de la mort.” (Stop! This is the empire of death.) Baaa haaa haa haa haaa!

Upon entering into the halls of stacks upon stacks of bones of dead bodies from the 17th century, you will be greeted with millions of bones consisting of femurs, tibia’s and skulls intricately stacked and piled together.

Yes lots and lots of dead bodies. Essentially, wall to wall bones in stacks around five feet high. You will be tempted not to say, “I see dead people.”

While walking through you are free to take pictures (without the flash), it is quite minus a few silent whispers and the sound of water dripping. The water dripping through the ceiling added a whole new level of creepiness to our adventure. My friend and I turned to each other and said, “Um… what is that dripping on us? And is the ceiling going to collapse and pile dead bodies on top of us? Run!”

Now, walking through tunnels of dead bodies may not sound like your romantic, beautiful, Paris get away. I must admit, I was quite hesitant to check out the catacombs, but after exploring I would say this is a spot not to be missed. It is quite creepy… but with a friend can be quite fun as well. And there are element of classic touristy Paris worked into the piles of bones.

You have Art.

(Notice the heart shaped skulls. What is love without a pile of dead bones?)

There are many great Photo Ops.

(seriously who wants a pic of the Eiffel tower, you can get that off of google? Who wouldn’t want their shadow casted upon old body remnants???)

Then for the lovers out there, as in all places in Paris, even in the ghostly halls of the Catacombs, here too is a perfect chance for you to smooch.

Embrassez-moi! Embrassez-moi!

Agneau?

2009-10-29T11:41:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my parents and I ventured off to the local grocery store to buy something for dinner. Unsure of what we were exactly going to make we headed to the meat section for some inspiration. There were the meats I recognized beef (beouf), pork (porc), and chicken (poulet).

And then there was Agneau.

Here’s what went down:

Mom: Kate, What’s Agneau?

Me: hmmm. Well veal is Veau. Maybe it’s like veal?

Mom: Are you sure?

Me: Nooooo….

(Meat man walking by)

Me: Pardon. Que-est que ce Agneau? (Excuse me. What is Agneau?)

Meat Man: Ugh… Agneau…. C’est Agneau (shrugging shoulders)

(gee thanks.)

Me: Beouf?

Meat Man: No.

Me: Porc?

Meat Man: No.

Unsure what each person was try to say, we are left with blank confused faces and insecure in knowing what animal Agneau came from. Since French wasn’t working, we resolved to a higher level of communication.

Me and Mom: Mooo?

Meat man: No.

Me and Mom: nogh nogh nogh (pig snorting)

Meat Man: No. (waving finger back and forth at us with other hand up to his face in a thinking manner)

Me: (rocking back and forth like I am swinging a baby) Moo moo.

Meat Man: No. Desole. Bonne Chance. (No sorry Good luck)

Mom and I surrender. We leave with beef. That was safe.

Today, sitting in French class, the girl next is talking about a traditional meal in her culture and says, “AGNEAU!” Then she checks with the teacher, “how do you say lamb? Agneau?” I start laughing while my teacher then writes the word to verify that, Agneau is Lamb!

Or, if you are talking to the butcher in the store you could always ask, “Pardon, Agneau C’est Baaaa Baa?”

The brave...

2009-10-27T05:07:00.000-07:00

“Hold onto your dreams. Fortune favors the brave”

Who are the brave of the world? When you think of someone who is brave- do you ever think of yourself? Are there requirements on what it takes to classify someone as “brave?”

I think each one of us are continually given challenges, that ask us to step up and be brave. It looks different for each person, because well, we each have different fears and limits set within ourselves. When life requires us to be stronger than we have the resolve to be, we must find the strength and courage within ourselves, to live larger than we believe we are capable.

Prior to moving to France some people called me crazy, others called me brave. I was just doing what I was ahead for me to do. Moving across the country seemed easy. I trusted what I was called to be doing, so I followed suit. However, I was losing my mind over a boy I was dating. I remember talking to a friend who said, “Katie, you are moving across the world, how can you be scared of a boy?” My response, “Anyone can move and set up a life, it’s much harder to build a relationship.” My friend and I had two different perspectives, two different life circumstances on what is and is not possible out of life. Now a year later, I realize I should have had a bit more fear about moving, but I didn’t at the time, I just did what it took. And I leaned and gleaned from her strength (and many others) to get through the situation with the boy.

Now living in another country away from everything, different fears on different days at different times comes across my way. But I love watching people and hearing their stories. There are so many extraordinary people who daily amaze me with the strength they find to live their lives. We each have something that scares us. Yet, to stand up to it, and declare you will not be afraid, but continue to live forward, is truly inspiring.

An act of courage could be a number of things. It could be saying yes to that person who keeps asking you out, forgiving that friend that hurt you in the worst way imaginable, going to an AA meeting, asking for help, asking for forgiveness, saying hello, saying goodbye, taking the job, going back to school, telling the truth, quitting the addiction, standing up for yourself, or standing up for someone else. These are the real brave things in life. The ones that challenge you to the core and make you believe you are worth more.

The things we think we are incapable of, the stuff that paralyzes us from moving forward, those are the most difficult tasks to do. The ideas that linger in your mind all the time as a desire, but are stifled by thoughts believing it’s nothing you could ever actually do, though you want it more than anything in life. It’s taking that step and doing what you are capable of, even at the risk of failing, but doing so without shame. It’s these challenges that require us to find courage, that make us brave.

The obvious challenges in life aren’t what make us brave. That’s the situation, the adventure, the fight. What makes you brave- is standing up and deciding you will go for what you want in life. You will not let the circumstances win over what you are capable of doing.
You will rise. You will go forward.
You will succeed.
You will be brave.

That's now how I wanted it...

2009-10-24T02:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had big big plans to do nothing. I have been on the go with fun things to do for the last month straight, but I knew I needed a small short break. With the weather being cozy as it is right now I thought it would be the perfect weather to cuddle up with cozy blankets, drink fresh hot tea, and to re-read twilight to enjoy the passing of time.

I got what I wanted but not on the terms I wanted it on. I wanted to be healthy choosing to stay at home all snug and warm. Instead, I am sick and forced to the chambers of my apartment. I wanted to sip and enjoy my hot tea, not have tea as my only option to help soothe and ease my throat. The cozy blankets I longed for, are now necessary but have me jumping from being too hot, then a few moments later, I am freezing with the chills. I am 25 not 55, I should not be having all these hot flashes. I had planned on taking a few leisurely strolls and now my whole body is worn from exhaustion, due to my entire body being forced through my heaving coughs. I am waiting for my lung to pop out as I type this out.

Next time I crave a relaxing weekend I must remember to think, “I want all of this, while being healthy, not sick.” I need to get to the store to buy some orange juice and crackers but I don’t think that’s going to happen. I am pretty sure the Frenchies would not appreciate me ~~hacking~~ breathing in their Carrefour. And I am pretty sure I might pass out while walking through their mega version of Wal-Mart looking for those two items or from the long lines that precede me actually being able to return to my car.

I know I will be fine though. I still have Bella and Edward to pass my time with and Tylenol p.m. to knock me out when I am ready to sleep. I hope to be refreshed and ready to live strong soon!

This One's for the Moms

2009-10-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

The past few days I have been given the insight to a whole new type of life. If I thought moving to a foreign country was a lot of work and change in pace of life; then thank goodness I am not a full time working…

MOM.

This week I have been subbing in as parents to a 10 yr old boy and a 14 yr old girl while their parents are out of town for the week. Thus the parental baton of responsibilities has been passed down to Moi.

And she’s off and ~~tumbling~~ running.

The two chillins I am watching could not be any easier or better. They pretty much take care of themselves- to the point that they even wake themselves up for school and get ready. Rather than me having to wake up before them and ensure they are getting up and ready to get out of the door on-time. It’s actually more like the other way around. I am pretty sure they are both up a good 30 minutes before I decide to roll out of bed. I wonder if I could train them to start a pot of coffee for me?

What surprised me the most consumption of time is the actual driving around from point A -> B -> C back to A -> D then from D -> home, takes. Both kids start school at the same time 8:00 a.m. To get to school it takes about twenty minutes of driving in the dark to get them to school. The sun has now decided it will not rise until about 8:30 a.m. After dropping them off at school, I either scoot off to my French class or trek 40 minutes to work, and then work a full day, until it’s time to take the kids back from their respective education centers.

Every day except for today the kids have both gotten out of school at two separate times. Some days one kid has a short day, while the other has no school at all. Or there is an hour between child one and child two and the time they each need to be picked up. My favorite is apparently days a teacher calls in sick, class is canceled! Um… Excuse me? Seriously??? I didn’t get the luxury of canceled classes due to a teacher’s no show until college; these kids get to start in junior high. No class for them = Bonus pick and retrieve drive for moi.

Today while waiting outside of the elementary school to pick up the kids, I was waiting in line with the rest of the too lazy to get out of the car parents, when I hear a click click clack. I look up and see a massive horse. My heart stops. Could it be? My night and shining armor coming to wisk me off on his horse here while I wait in the middle of Fountainblu to pick up someone else’s kids? Wow! It really does happen when you least expect it!

Nope! It was the policia! Yes, the police on a horse. I have been officially scorned in French by an officer on a horse. Apparently they don’t like you parking in the middle of these small streets while waiting to pick up your kids and wanted the line to move forward. Nothing speeds up traffic in front of a school then following the lead of a horse on a one way street.

After the retrieval of the kids and doing whatever they each do after school- like any soccer mom I head back to their home and prepare dinner. (which is simmering as I find the time to type this out) By 8:00 each night I am wiped out. How do real mom’s do it? I get to joke around with the kids, not overshadow their homework. Most dinners are easy and pretty much pre-prepared. The kids are self sufficient and I am still exhausted.

Just when I finally started getting the hang out taking care of myself, I was handed two adolescences to be responsible for too! Shiesh.

Words??? Where did you go?

2009-10-18T03:24:00.000-07:00

Is it bad when you feel guilty about not blogging? Cause I do.

Every day, several times a day, when I open my internet browser there is a tab screaming at me saying, “STOP IGNORING ME!!! WRITE SOMETHING! ANYTHING!” I close my eyes and switch the page to something else and sigh… “So many ideas of what to write, but nothing to say.”

How does this happen? I used to have so many ways to write and explain what I was thinking, but no real idea when I started what the exact topic would be. The topic just occurred organically through the process of writing. Now I have a list of ideas, Yes a LIST. A full on, 8 item list of ideas, of what to write on; but no idea on how to actually write and explain in a fun and witty way, what I have to say.

Suffice to say, I am in a writing rut, and frustrated with it. I want my time of writing to be fun, but I don’t want to forget or outdate the happenings of my Parisian state of mind. Will my blog have to become a disciple until I get back into the flow of actually writing words? How did a trip to Italy with my parents have me return with nothing new and creative to say? It must have been all that rocket fuel “Grappa.”

I know I can do it. The ideas are there, I just need to motivate myself and dig deep into the empty shell head of mine, and pull something, ney, ANYTHING out of it. I am sure once I travel into the unknown maze of my lil brain, something is bound to come up. Like falling off a horse, you just have to get back on again- I just have to find the motivation to want to get back on. At this moment my only motivation for writing about absolutely NOTHING (other than I have nothing to write about) is a distraction from something that haunts me even more… My French Homework.

I beg my mind to be creative and fun once again. It’s no fun, neglecting something that brings me so much joy. And it’s even more no fun knowing that now it is a task, but once upon a time was just plain simple Fun.

Please, please, please, words come back to me!

Monsieur Serendipity

2009-10-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

To all those who said that I would move to Paris and fall in love with a cute French boy and I brushed off… I am here to tell you: You are correct. Now all I have to do is find him again.

Saturday may go down as one of my favorite days thus far in Paris. I was able go to coffee with two girls I have become friends with, which turned into an entire day hanging out. We walked around Paris, had dinner, and then went to watch a French football (soccer) game. I believe this may be the first Saturday night in Paris, I have hung out with a group of friends and it felt very refreshing. My schedule has been so hectic lately that I haven’t been able to meet up with these girls who mean so much to me here.

While hanging out with my “French Amies” was fabulous, the Nutella on the Crepe (Or icing on the cake), of the day was the cute boy I met who I will call Monsieur Serendipity. This football game was very different from the first match I watched. The first game everyone was very intense and hyped up and this one people seemed more relaxed and the game was more a background than the main event of the evening. Apparently France played a team from a small Island who is not as skilled as other European teams. I must admit I did not watch much of the game but was enjoying being with my friends.

Shortly after my first “French Amie” left, the boy next to me and I started to chat a bit. Nothing serious but he was charming none the less. Through our conversations together we spoke a bit of French, Spanish but mostly English. He is an avid soccer fan ,while not such a big American football supporter. I told him, he must give it a chance because I am giving soccer a try, though I think it is quite boring compared to our American football. Our difference in taste I am sure is from what we were exposed to as a child, thank goodness I got the best one. Then we agreed I would be a France National Team fan if he was a Charger fan. One more Frenchie supporting the Chargers!

After the grand finish by the French National team (Score 5-0) it was time for Monsieur Serendipity to leave. As he was leaving he turned from his friends and said, “Well, it is time for us to leave,” Now reaching for my hand while giving me the traditional French goodbye Bisous finishes by saying, “But you know, life is crazy, and I hope we will run into each other again.” And then I was left swooning. The best goodbye ever.

Now I must find a way to find the boy. Time to start going to lots of football games and hoping the French keep on winning so that in the end… I can win too!

The Departure

2009-10-09T06:27:00.000-07:00

On Sunday morning I woke up early and headed to the airport with my parents in tow. Their time visiting was over and it was time for them to return to their home far far away. My parents nor I were looking forward to the separation after such great quality time together over the past weeks.

When we were pulling into the Charles de Gaulle airport, there was a line of fire trucks pulling in, right in front of us. The emergency vehicles were in no rush, but 7-10 ten trucks pulled in none the less. I headed inside to save my parents a spot inline while they unloaded their luggage. Once inside the check in area- I was evacuated from the area with everyone else who was standing in line. Apparently a bag had been left unattended and required extraction in case it was armed.

This was the third time I had been evacuated out of a section of CDG due to unattended luggage. However, this was the first time I was pushed back outside the sliding glass doors of the check in area, while everyone standing outside the check in doors stood their anxious like a Mervyn’s sale saying, ‘Open. Open. Open.’

An hour later the flood gates of the check in doors were re-opened and a rush of chaos and people headed inside to get a spot to check in. My parent’s flight was scheduled to take off in ten minutes. While they had to get in the check-in line, I tell them I will be right back. I head to starbucks to get some drinks, I knew it would be a long wait and we were all in need of caffeine this morning. When I search for my parents in line, they are missing. I begin to walk towards the front counter and see my mom standing their crying, thinking I had disappeared, and that she would have to leave without saying goodbye. I walk up to my mom and give her a big hug and assure her I am fine.

My parents missed their flight and are now being re-booked to another flight. There is only one more flight leaving this morning to the U.S. and it’s headed to D.C. Passengers booked on the D.C. flight are being offered: Free tickets for their flight, a hotel room, and 800 Euros per person willing to allow other passengers who missed their flights on to the D.C. flight. (Seriously! Who would not accept this offer? What could you possibly have to do that day that would earn you 800 dollars and free plane tickets!?!?) My parents decide the possibility of making the D.C. flight is slim and decide to take a flight the next day. This makes my mom very excited that for one more day she gets to stay.

Of all the days I spent with my parents I think this day just might be my favorite. It was so unexpected and wonderful. After driving back to my place after missing their flight we just hung out together. There were no tours. There were no sights. It was just resting and being together. We hung out down by the Seine, my mom cooked dinner (just might be my favorite meal from the whole trip), and we watched a movie together. It was nice and peaceful and a perfect way to end the trip for the second time.

The next day taking my parents to the airport once again it was easy for me to say goodbye. Yes I was sad to see them go, but I knew I would be okay. Having my parents around giving me love and comfort helped give me a boost of perseverance for my time remaining and the care I needed to fix my tired spirit. All the moments of laughing, cuddling, enjoying life together empowered me to have the strength, capacity, and the confidence to finish strong my second half of my stay here.

Italia by numbers

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1 Trip of a life time

2 Tours of the coliseum

3 times I had to be covered

4 Euros for the best pizza in the world in Naples- but the only reason to go there. Ever.

5 great cities of Italy- Rome, Sorrento, Florence, Tuscany, Venice

10 hours of walking tours in one day, in Florence

15 tours total of all the cities

20 bowls of amazing pasta

(pst- Lindsay, this picture is blurry but it's from your restaurant)

50 times my dad would read the Rick Steve’s Guide book in Each city

100 times my mom talked about how her feet hurt.

200 pigeons that didn’t move when I tried to chase them in Saint Marks Square

450 gondoliers’ in Venice

1,000 people wearing the color purple

1,372 pictures

5,000 pieces of art in lots and lots of churches and museums

20,000 times of laughing at my quirky mom

50,000 Prego’s

800,000 Euros to buy a license to be a gondolier

100,000 times I had a great time!

The choice to continue

2009-10-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

After such a long long absence from writing on my blog I almost don’t even know where to begin. I have even questioned many times of even continuing. But I don’t think I could stop, even if I wanted to. It is here on my blog that I capture the happy, and not so happy, quirky, funny, lonely, unexpected, adventures, and special moments from my journey here in Paris.

Since I have been away for a few weeks and have gained some new followers, I thought I would start by reintroducing myself to my blog and those who stumble across here.
When people find out I live in Paris, they are often curious to know how I ended up here. I regularly wonder the same thing myself. I work for a Christian Missions organization that works with over 30 countries of the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia. That is what I do when I am here in France. Though, that is never directly the topic of my blog. I chose to avoid this as a blog topic for a few reasons though it is my only purpose for being here. The main reason (and most important) I do not blog in regards to what I do for work (other than mentioning a country I am traveling to) is for the protection of those I work with.

In the U.S.A we are blessed with the freedom of religion and can freely mention names, places, and events that we are doing to share Christ with others. However, with the areas of the world I work with, liberally placing those details online for others to read would be doing the missionaries I work with a disservice of trust and safety. Working here I know the realities that face people daily and would never want to be a cause of risk for any of the wonderful people I have met and the beautiful work I support them in doing.

While I work the typical 8 hour day (or more) like the rest of the world, when I am off work I live in the French culture. Be assured that though my blog looks like all I do is play, there is lots of work being done too. I love the work my job accomplishes but I want to remember the people I interact with when I am strolling the city. I want to take any opportunity that is presented to me while I am here, because to not be open, would seem as though I am rejecting a blessing waiting to be taken. Through each of these opportunities, I am taught something new and want to always remember what I am taking away and give it back to my readers and supporters.

Be assured that though my blog looks like all I do is play, there is lots of work being done too.

I love my life here in France. There are many moments that life here in France is the toughest choice I have ever made and must trust in the Lord’s plan in knowing this is where he wanted me to be. There are other times I wonder why I was chosen to be here and be so blessed. I get to do amazing things both in and out of work and in a wonderful life enriching part of the world at the same time. Living in France and traveling throughout the region for work- gives me a perspective of many different cultures all of the time.

I am happy I have decided to keep my blog- I think I would have missed it greatly if I decided to stop. And I fear it would become a regret that would haunt me after this time is over. I want to remember, I want to remember it all and share it all with you.

22 hours left!

2009-09-17T02:31:00.000-07:00

My week:
-Monday- Meetings
-Tuesday- Longer meetings
-Wednesday- Even longer day of meetings
-Thursday- Like the energizer bunnies the meetings are still going.
-Friday- Picking Parents up from the airport!

T-minus 22 hours till Friday is here!

All to say… There will most likely be a blogging pause while I am with my parents touring around. Best of all we are headed to Italy for 10 days. The good news for all of you is that there will be fun blogging goodness when I return. The good news for me is after the longest week ever (work days from 8:00 am to 11:00 p.m. ) vacation has never arrived at such a perfect time.

Grosse Bizous!