As Christmas approaches as do the deadlines for the last week of term in 3 weeks time. Everyone I know is currently slaving away at desks, in the library or wherever so it is a pretty productive time of year for all concerned, mainly spurred on by the fact that it is the final push before the Christmas holidays...could be a lot worse! Christmas parties are already being planned with all the traditional food and cheesy music that we all know and love, so with the festive atmosphere becoming more and more evident as the days go by, who really cares if it is getting colder or darker that bit earlier in the evenings?
I am particularly happy at the moment as after months of looking my brother, Robert starts his first full-time job tomorrow working as a mechanic. He is on a month's trial but to be honest I see him getting through it with no problems at all, so in my mind at least he has the job for good! Hopefully then he can come and see me in Leeds after Christmas once my exams in January are over so we can go on the outdoor ice-rink which is always awesome fun! I adore it, again it doesn't matter that you have to queue for the best part of an hour to go on or the fact that it is cold as everyone is so happy! :) Really hope it snows this year though, it kind of makes the cold temperatures more worthwhile and I was really gutted when there was lots of snow in England during my time in France....was typical really, there is never usually that much and then the minute I go away it doesn't stop! Ah well, here's hoping at least!
Should probably head off to bed now given that I have to be up earlier than usual in the morning...student life has a tendency to mess up your sleeping patterns, but it's all part of life I think, it may well be the same in the workplace, I am yet to find out!
Will write again soon,
take care.xx
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Sunday, November 1, 2009
University Life
This past month feels as if it has both flown by and dragged...ah well, such is Final Year. I found it really weird being back in Leeds and back at university at first after not having had any classes in eighteen months and having been away for most of the rest of that time! Ah well, it has been nice to see my friends again though some of whom I hadn't seen in over a year, before I went to France and it has also been great to make some new friends in my halls (I live next door to a French girl, from Paris- how perfect is that?!) and in some of my classes.
As well as all my work this year I am having to make some really hard decisions about my future and what I want to do upon leaving university, so basically making decisions which will affect the rest of my life...it is so hard even though I am pretty sure what I want to do. I am glad to know it isn't just me that is having difficulty as some of my friends have told me the same. Hopefully have everything sorted in a couple of weeks though as have 'reading week' next week, which everyone uses as a kind of half-term holiday despite the work element implied in the name! Am off home for some of it though as have only been home for a weekend since coming back to Leeds and hopefully going to be able to teach some classes in my old college and secondary school, but that isn't yet confirmed. Got to know all the Language assistants in Manchester and Leeds which is really nice, good for me to be able to speak as much French as possible, but also to practice my Spanish a bit and improve what little German I know as well as helping them with their English and help them with all things to do with the UK. I was in their shoes last year so I know how they feel at times and faced with certain situations, so I know that for them it is good to have a native Englishwoman there as a resource and to help if necessary.
I went to a Ballroom and Latin 'Give it a go' session at uni last week and loved it! I think I am going to carry it on as I really want to learn more and I am on a mission to prove my Mum wrong! She (who used to be a semi-professional dancer and dance teacher might I add...) thinks I have little rhythm and can't really dance, but we'll see who has the last laugh on that one! :) Will keep you updated with how I get on! Have a French soirée with some of my coursemates this week too, so I am going to have to choose some films to take with me and some other French things as part of my contribution to the evening, should be good though!
Will write again soon (even if it is just to have a break from essay writing, hehe :))
As well as all my work this year I am having to make some really hard decisions about my future and what I want to do upon leaving university, so basically making decisions which will affect the rest of my life...it is so hard even though I am pretty sure what I want to do. I am glad to know it isn't just me that is having difficulty as some of my friends have told me the same. Hopefully have everything sorted in a couple of weeks though as have 'reading week' next week, which everyone uses as a kind of half-term holiday despite the work element implied in the name! Am off home for some of it though as have only been home for a weekend since coming back to Leeds and hopefully going to be able to teach some classes in my old college and secondary school, but that isn't yet confirmed. Got to know all the Language assistants in Manchester and Leeds which is really nice, good for me to be able to speak as much French as possible, but also to practice my Spanish a bit and improve what little German I know as well as helping them with their English and help them with all things to do with the UK. I was in their shoes last year so I know how they feel at times and faced with certain situations, so I know that for them it is good to have a native Englishwoman there as a resource and to help if necessary.
I went to a Ballroom and Latin 'Give it a go' session at uni last week and loved it! I think I am going to carry it on as I really want to learn more and I am on a mission to prove my Mum wrong! She (who used to be a semi-professional dancer and dance teacher might I add...) thinks I have little rhythm and can't really dance, but we'll see who has the last laugh on that one! :) Will keep you updated with how I get on! Have a French soirée with some of my coursemates this week too, so I am going to have to choose some films to take with me and some other French things as part of my contribution to the evening, should be good though!
Will write again soon (even if it is just to have a break from essay writing, hehe :))
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Update...quite overdue
Well summer came and went didn't it? If you'd have blinked I bet you'd have missed it, well in England anyway. I just find it quite amusing that now all the children and school staff have gone back to school/work respectively the sun has decided to make an appearance! Still, I have another 2 and a half weeks of summer holidays left before I start back at university so may as well make the most of it! The countdown to me going back to Leeds is now well and truly on given that I move back there next Saturday just in time for Freshers' Week (even though I'm no longer a fresher) and all the delights that has to offer. Will be great to see my friends too given that I haven't seen some of them in over a year due to us all being in France during the last academic year...wish I was going back too! After I have graduated in July who knows...the world is my oyster as they say! I intend on visiting France at some point during this year though and have some other trips planned...people who know me well know that where possible I don't stay in the country for too long at a time! Before I go though I will be teaching some French lessons at the Primary school where Mum works which should be interesting given that over the past year I have been used to teaching teenagers English in France, will make a nice change though I guess! May be a bit of a mission given that the two lessons in question will both take place last thing on a Friday afternoon, but the teacher reckons that the kids will behave and have fun given that a lot of it is games based...I am a little dubious but apparently they are a good class so I'll have to see.
About to start reading a new book that I bought in town today, hopefully I'll actually finish this one for once as usually I start reading and then don't touch it in ages and end up forgetting and or losing interest...change starts now I say especially as I used to love reading when I was younger! Ah well, will keep you updated as to how I'm getting on!
Ciao for now!
About to start reading a new book that I bought in town today, hopefully I'll actually finish this one for once as usually I start reading and then don't touch it in ages and end up forgetting and or losing interest...change starts now I say especially as I used to love reading when I was younger! Ah well, will keep you updated as to how I'm getting on!
Ciao for now!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Long time no write...
Well, given that I havent written on here in absolutely ages I figured I had better and get well and truly up to date with everything that has been happening. I have now been back from France for almost 2 weeks and I was absolutely gutted to have to leave! I hate goodbyes anyway, but that was horrible. Before that after finishing work at the end of April I went off travelling for 11 days around Northern Spain, to Barcelona, Andorra and Pamplona, where one of my best friends from uni is spending his year abroad. I had an amazing time and it did wonders for my Spanish after having spent so much time in France speaking French, made a nice change too I have to say. It seems my Spanish adventures aren't over yet either seeing as I found out on Tuesday (after only applying on Monday) that I have a job in Torre del Mar in Andalucia over summer, so all very exciting! I adore Spain anyway and I loved living in Menorca last summer so it should be great! :) Providing I can get to an Internet point I will try and write regularly detailing what I get up to! Lots to do before I leave next week though so I am going to go and carry on, but hasta pronto!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Boltonian fun in the sun Part 2: Toulouse
Well, when I last wrote we were on the train to Toulouse, so I think it's only right and proper that I fill you in on our exploits there...just to gloss over things (given that it is now 2 weeks ago and I have since had another awesome weekend about which I am yet to write...) we initially went to the tourist office to decide on how we were going to spend our time there, which actually wasn't that long given that we were taking the train back to Pau that evening and it soon transpired that we wouldn't be able to do some of what we had hoped to do due to having to book. We initially decided to do the boat tour of the city that afternoon (the weather merited it as it was gorgeous yet again!), although as we had a few hours beforehand to do our own thing we went round to try and find somewhere where Mandy could buy a pair of trainers as her feet were, in her own words 'killing her' and she needed a pair of comfy shoes for the following day anyway. We soon managed to find some and then after having eaten decided that instead of going on the boat tour, to get some bikes ('Velo', same system as Vélib in Paris) and go round the city ourselves as that way we'd probably have a lot more fun and also be able to go where we wanted instead of having to follow the boat's course.
We were slightly apprehensive about going on the roads, but as more often than not there were cycle lanes it could have been worse! Was so nice and relaxing just going round taking everything in at our own pace :)Had a walk through one of the parks pushing our bikes at one point too as you weren't allowed to ride through...nice though even though the bike was hardly what I'd call light, so having to hold 2 at once so Mandy could take a photo and do some filming was what I'd call a mission, which I in part failed with!
Soon enough it was time for us to head back to the station to catch our train back and I think all three of us were glad when we were able to have the cabin all to ourselves on the way back as we could have got some rather funny looks due to the games we were playing had we been sharing with people!
Definitely going to head back to Toulouse to do everything else, although next time I think a weekend would be better because as with any city there is so much to do! :)
Went out to meet my friends again when we arrived back, although given that Sunday was going to be another busy day and after either having travelled down from Paris or got up at 5.30 that morning we all soon agreed to call it a night
We were slightly apprehensive about going on the roads, but as more often than not there were cycle lanes it could have been worse! Was so nice and relaxing just going round taking everything in at our own pace :)Had a walk through one of the parks pushing our bikes at one point too as you weren't allowed to ride through...nice though even though the bike was hardly what I'd call light, so having to hold 2 at once so Mandy could take a photo and do some filming was what I'd call a mission, which I in part failed with!
Soon enough it was time for us to head back to the station to catch our train back and I think all three of us were glad when we were able to have the cabin all to ourselves on the way back as we could have got some rather funny looks due to the games we were playing had we been sharing with people!
Definitely going to head back to Toulouse to do everything else, although next time I think a weekend would be better because as with any city there is so much to do! :)
Went out to meet my friends again when we arrived back, although given that Sunday was going to be another busy day and after either having travelled down from Paris or got up at 5.30 that morning we all soon agreed to call it a night
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Boltonian fun in the sun! Part 1: Conspiracy
I realise it is a while since I last wrote, but that was purely because nothing overly special happened and given that I don't have a free weekend from now until I go back home to England for Easter in a month, I knew that I'd have many a story to tell, which is where this weekend comes in...what a weekend! I had two of my friends from home (one is on a year abroad like me, being an assistant in Paris) over, Mandy and Kris. Mandy rather spontaneously decided to book tickets a month ago, not having been out of the country nor flown before, and Kris rather spontanously booked tickets last Thursday to arrive early Saturday morning...now you see where my spontaneity comes from! haha.
Anyway, as Mandy had never flown before she was shall we say, petrified. My attempts to reassure her weren't exactly successful as she was very apprehensive about the whole thing. She had to take the plane from Birmingham to Biarritz as annoyingly none of the routes from Manchester are actually up and running yet, so on Friday I had to jump on the train to go and meet her. Was such a gorgeous day, wish I could have stayed in Biarritz and gone to the beach, but wasn't to be, plus there'll be other occasions! Got the train from Pau to Bayonne and then had to jump on a bus to the airport...sounds easy, actually wasn't! Had to ask at the bus terminus with regards to which bus to get to the airport and either I completely misunderstood (which I doubt) or the woman wasn't explicit with her instructions...I am pretty sure that 'town hall' without specifying in which town is not explicit! Anyway, I managed to jump on the right bus etc no problem and it was only once I realised we were getting close to Biarritz town centre that some doubts started to set in, so got off the bus at what I thought (wrongly) was the Town Hall and asked some passers by for help. While all this was going on I got a phone call from Mandy to say she was at Biarritz airport as the plane had arrived 20 minutes early...the one time I was praying for it to be delayed it was early! Since when have planes ever arrived early? It just doesn't happen! After realising I was waiting for the bus on the wrong side of the road and then having to wait another 10 minutes on top of the half hour I'd already waited and then once on the bus I had to sit through 12 stops. I felt so bad given that it was the first time she had flown and at this point she was alone in a country where she couldn't speak the language, I apologised on arriving at the airport and finding her as you can imagine! Got a taxi from the airport to Biarritz station (which I found to be much nearer the airport than Bayonne, I asked a mate so was misinformed) and found that we had an hour and a half wait until the next train we could get. Drawing up a rather spontaneous contingency plan, I suggested that as the bus to Bayonne station was outside the station, to get on that and then get the train as it arrived in Bayonne...the buses let me down for the second time! There was a bridge being repaired so quite a big diversion near the centre of Bayonne so we missed the train. It wasn't too bad though as we only had 40 minutes to wait and in that time we decided to get food in order to be able to head straight out into Pau when we arrived back. Was so funny listening to Mandy's first impressions of being abroad, for example, feeling like she needed to close her eyes and hope for the best as we were travelling on the opposite side of the road and how euros seemed like toy money, haha! Bless her!
When we arrived back in Pau we decided to take a taxi back from Pau station given that Mandy had been up since 4.30 in the morning (out of choice- I think possibly due to nerves about the flight), the fact she had her suitcase and bag, and also I wanted to get home after having set off around 8 hours previously. After having changed, shown Mandy round and got her settled in we headed back out into Pau to meet up with some of my friends- probably worked out for the best that they were all English given that Mandy speaks very little French. We came home earlier than normal as we had to be up for her 'surprise' at 5.30am on Saturday morning, which she was led to believe was the time we had to be up to catch the 6.30 train to Toulouse...little did she know me and Kris had been conspiring! Our plan could literally have not worked better! We got up at 5.40 to go and meet Kris from Pau station (or to get the train to Toulouse as I had lead Mandy to believe). She was clearly tired and wanted to stay in bed though as she asked me 'Is there anywhere closer we can go instead of Toulouse?' to which I had to seriously reply 'No, it'll be worth it, believe me', which made her leave the confines of the bed and duvet. The funiculaire wasn't running as you'd expect for ridiculous o clock in the morning, so we had to do the whole journey on foot. Kris texted me as we were walking down the Boulevard to let me know he'd arrived safely....that and to tell us to hurry up! I told Mandy that the text was from my phone company to say my credit was almost up and then once we got to the station Kris stepped out fron behind one of the SNCF machines and all was revealed...couldn't have panned out better, I swear me and Kris could give the Gunpowder plotters a run for their money when it comes to conspiracy! As we had to be back at the station for 8.13 in order to catch the actual train to Toulouse, we then ran home so that Kris could dump his bags and headed back to the station, stopping off for breakfast at La Mie Caline en route...I love that place, the chocolatines are heavenly :)Train was on time so it was all good and soon we were on our way! :)
Anyway, as Mandy had never flown before she was shall we say, petrified. My attempts to reassure her weren't exactly successful as she was very apprehensive about the whole thing. She had to take the plane from Birmingham to Biarritz as annoyingly none of the routes from Manchester are actually up and running yet, so on Friday I had to jump on the train to go and meet her. Was such a gorgeous day, wish I could have stayed in Biarritz and gone to the beach, but wasn't to be, plus there'll be other occasions! Got the train from Pau to Bayonne and then had to jump on a bus to the airport...sounds easy, actually wasn't! Had to ask at the bus terminus with regards to which bus to get to the airport and either I completely misunderstood (which I doubt) or the woman wasn't explicit with her instructions...I am pretty sure that 'town hall' without specifying in which town is not explicit! Anyway, I managed to jump on the right bus etc no problem and it was only once I realised we were getting close to Biarritz town centre that some doubts started to set in, so got off the bus at what I thought (wrongly) was the Town Hall and asked some passers by for help. While all this was going on I got a phone call from Mandy to say she was at Biarritz airport as the plane had arrived 20 minutes early...the one time I was praying for it to be delayed it was early! Since when have planes ever arrived early? It just doesn't happen! After realising I was waiting for the bus on the wrong side of the road and then having to wait another 10 minutes on top of the half hour I'd already waited and then once on the bus I had to sit through 12 stops. I felt so bad given that it was the first time she had flown and at this point she was alone in a country where she couldn't speak the language, I apologised on arriving at the airport and finding her as you can imagine! Got a taxi from the airport to Biarritz station (which I found to be much nearer the airport than Bayonne, I asked a mate so was misinformed) and found that we had an hour and a half wait until the next train we could get. Drawing up a rather spontaneous contingency plan, I suggested that as the bus to Bayonne station was outside the station, to get on that and then get the train as it arrived in Bayonne...the buses let me down for the second time! There was a bridge being repaired so quite a big diversion near the centre of Bayonne so we missed the train. It wasn't too bad though as we only had 40 minutes to wait and in that time we decided to get food in order to be able to head straight out into Pau when we arrived back. Was so funny listening to Mandy's first impressions of being abroad, for example, feeling like she needed to close her eyes and hope for the best as we were travelling on the opposite side of the road and how euros seemed like toy money, haha! Bless her!
When we arrived back in Pau we decided to take a taxi back from Pau station given that Mandy had been up since 4.30 in the morning (out of choice- I think possibly due to nerves about the flight), the fact she had her suitcase and bag, and also I wanted to get home after having set off around 8 hours previously. After having changed, shown Mandy round and got her settled in we headed back out into Pau to meet up with some of my friends- probably worked out for the best that they were all English given that Mandy speaks very little French. We came home earlier than normal as we had to be up for her 'surprise' at 5.30am on Saturday morning, which she was led to believe was the time we had to be up to catch the 6.30 train to Toulouse...little did she know me and Kris had been conspiring! Our plan could literally have not worked better! We got up at 5.40 to go and meet Kris from Pau station (or to get the train to Toulouse as I had lead Mandy to believe). She was clearly tired and wanted to stay in bed though as she asked me 'Is there anywhere closer we can go instead of Toulouse?' to which I had to seriously reply 'No, it'll be worth it, believe me', which made her leave the confines of the bed and duvet. The funiculaire wasn't running as you'd expect for ridiculous o clock in the morning, so we had to do the whole journey on foot. Kris texted me as we were walking down the Boulevard to let me know he'd arrived safely....that and to tell us to hurry up! I told Mandy that the text was from my phone company to say my credit was almost up and then once we got to the station Kris stepped out fron behind one of the SNCF machines and all was revealed...couldn't have panned out better, I swear me and Kris could give the Gunpowder plotters a run for their money when it comes to conspiracy! As we had to be back at the station for 8.13 in order to catch the actual train to Toulouse, we then ran home so that Kris could dump his bags and headed back to the station, stopping off for breakfast at La Mie Caline en route...I love that place, the chocolatines are heavenly :)Train was on time so it was all good and soon we were on our way! :)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Laughing out loud at an Egg fight...
Today as my lessons were cancelled due to my students having to sit mock exams I decided to go to the cinema and see LOL, a French film I had wanted to see since my last visit to the cinema when I saw the trailer...was worth waiting for! I really liked it...granted I didn't understand every word, but almost. As with the last time when I talked about my visit to see Slumdog and Inkheart I won't go into detail about the plot so as not to ruin it for anyone who may want to see the film for themselves...but again, highly recommended! It was nice to actually see a French film and not and English/American one that had been dubbed. I must say though that French films are really underrated- having studied a module on French Cinema at uni last year I learnt that French Cinema used to be the equivalent of Hollywood, producing many a classic film due to pioneers such as the Lumiere Brothers and Melies, and the reason as to why it no longer is escapes me...it may be something to do with one or both world wars, but I can't remember. People are missing a trick seriously just because they can't be bothered to read the subtitles if they don't understand...it seems in a way many classics unfortunately will remain unrecognised and potentially undiscovered which is a tragedy in my opinion.
Being at the cinema today has also taught me that I still stand out as being English which is annoying after having lived here for five months...ah well you have to laugh it off, at least he didn't change language though and continued speaking to me in French unlike some people. I suppose it'd be the same with a French person in England, people would automatically be able to tell the difference...ah well, I can but try and improve my accent I suppose or something I don't know...suggestions welcome!
Now to the second part of the title of this blog- the egg fight. Yesterday Lycée Barthou and Lycée Saint-Cricq both had an egg-fight for the Mardi Gras of the Carnaval held in Pau a few weeks ago- only managed to see three days of it due to my trip to Grenoble. In truth the actually day of the Mardi Gras was last Tuesday although as everyone was still on school holidays they had a 'fake' one yesterday in order to not let the occasion pass unmarked. As I have to work on Tuesday afternoons and seriously didn't want to be smelling of egg for the rest of the week I declined to participate though went over to Parc Beaumont to watch- it was one of the maddest things I think I have ever born witness to! That said it did seem to be quite dangerous at times with people running across the road etc, but as with all things of this nature the police showed up (some killjoy must have called them!). Saw some of my students there who wereb't participating but had gone to watch anyway like me and they caught the wrath of a stray waterbomb as did I! Made my day somewhat more interesting I have to say, was so glad it was just water and not an egg though- had it been an egg I may well not have laughed it off, but even so. Something different to take back to England with me :)...
Being at the cinema today has also taught me that I still stand out as being English which is annoying after having lived here for five months...ah well you have to laugh it off, at least he didn't change language though and continued speaking to me in French unlike some people. I suppose it'd be the same with a French person in England, people would automatically be able to tell the difference...ah well, I can but try and improve my accent I suppose or something I don't know...suggestions welcome!
Now to the second part of the title of this blog- the egg fight. Yesterday Lycée Barthou and Lycée Saint-Cricq both had an egg-fight for the Mardi Gras of the Carnaval held in Pau a few weeks ago- only managed to see three days of it due to my trip to Grenoble. In truth the actually day of the Mardi Gras was last Tuesday although as everyone was still on school holidays they had a 'fake' one yesterday in order to not let the occasion pass unmarked. As I have to work on Tuesday afternoons and seriously didn't want to be smelling of egg for the rest of the week I declined to participate though went over to Parc Beaumont to watch- it was one of the maddest things I think I have ever born witness to! That said it did seem to be quite dangerous at times with people running across the road etc, but as with all things of this nature the police showed up (some killjoy must have called them!). Saw some of my students there who wereb't participating but had gone to watch anyway like me and they caught the wrath of a stray waterbomb as did I! Made my day somewhat more interesting I have to say, was so glad it was just water and not an egg though- had it been an egg I may well not have laughed it off, but even so. Something different to take back to England with me :)...
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
More than 24h in Le Mans (part 3)
Saturday, again had another sneaky few minutes (by that I mean around half an hour to an hour, I don't remember exactly) sleep after hearing my alarm go off before finally rolling out of bed. As I hadn't managed to get to the Préfecture yesterday which I didn't actually manage to see last time either (a first!) that was my first port of call. It was another goregeous day, so even though there was a bus stop not five minutes walk from the hostel, I didn't use it once. I didn't see the point given that I was so close to town anyway, but the weather was glorious which made it a pleasure to walk. To be typically English and talk about the weather yet again, the weather in Le Mans was totally not how I anticipated it to be, I thought the North was going to be a lot colder than in the South, more in keeping with the weather at home as opposed to Mediterranean climes...how wrong was I! Hadn't come completely unprepared though, had t-shirts as well as long-sleeved tops, so hadn't shot myself in the foot :) Walked the same route as the previous day (meant I got to walk down Rue de Bolton, which I walked down quite a number of times during my stay! :P) although once I got to Place de la République I decided to take the tram even though it was only a few more minutes walk...lazy I know, but my reasoning was that on arriving in Le Mans I had bought a ticket for 10 journeys on the tram thinking I may need them in case the hostel was further away than it was or whatever, and I wanted to use as many of the 10 as possible before I came back to Pau, in order to have not having wasted money. Having received a text from Sarah saying they hadn't yet got up and so weren't going to make the 2pm meeting time we had arranged the night before I decided to take my time. Arrived at the Préfecture and again did the whole touristy thing of taking photos...I was slowly but surely coming to the conclusion that as much as you try and blend in with the locals the fact you have a map in one hand and your camera in the other will never quite cut it!
The Préfecture
Something else I was starting to realise was that town halls/council buildings in France are so much nicer looking than at home, give or take the odd one or two. They just look a lot prouder with the national flag flying outside and for the most part they are striking buldings. Don't get me wrong, that isn't to say that I don't think that my fellow countrymen and women aren't patriotic, quite the contrary in fact, but I do think that there is a distinct lack of such things at home, well except for when the World Cup is being contested and you see flags absolutely everywhere!
After having done my photocall at the Préfecture I rang Sarah to find out what was going on and found out that they were on the tram on their way into town, decided to go to the tram stop to wait for them and even then we managed to miss each other! Once we had all met up we went for a wander round the town, as the others hadn't already had the chance to due to being at the conference on Friday and given that the Leeds people wanted a bit of time to do their own thing they had re-arranged to meet up with the French people in the evening. Just going to brush over the afternoon as not too much to speak of, after having wandered round for a bit we met up with the rest of the Leeds lot (who had gone off for a look round as well) and soaked up some of the sun sat in a café in Place de la République.
At 6, we went down to Place de l'Éperon to meet the French people like yesterday, although not all of them were able to make it for various reasons which was a shame and then as we were waiting Sarah received a text from her teacher saying they had to go for a debrief- talk about no warning! Given that I was the only one among us not to have been at the seminar I didn't need to go, although as Sarah had forgotten to bring my shopping with her which I left at her hotel and they didn't know how long they'd be needed for, she suggested I run back up to the hotel to retrieve it given that they had to leave earlier than me to come home the following morning. Knew roughly where I was going from when Sarah came to meet me on Friday night, although I can't have paid much attention given that the first thing I did was get off the tram at the wrong stop! Clever...then had to negotiate my way through the uni to get back to where I needed to be and consequently find the hotel, which I managed to do fairly easily after I had found where I needed to be! Then jumped back on the tram to go and meet them all. It was on my way back that I receieved my phone call from Sandrine (my friend from orchestra) with info about us meeting up, so had a better idea as to what was going on...I'm really not the type of person who likes to be kept in the dark...
Went back to find the others as there was an hour and a quarter until Sandrine would come to find me in Place de la Rép and I knew I wouldn't get to see Sarah and the others after that given that they had to leave at 9 whereas I had my train at midday.
Stayed with them in the restaurant where they had eaten until everyone moved to a bar in the Old Town opposite the Town Hall taking many a photo en route!
Us with the Le Mans 24 statuette
Once at the bar I literally stayed two minutes as I had to head back to wait for Sandrine to come and find me and then go to a bar where another of the orchestra people from 2005 was celebrating his birthday, so it turned out to be quite a reunion! :) In all, there was Sandrine, Cecile (who both stayed with me in Bolton), Guillaume, Gildas and Thibault (who was the one celebrating his birthday). Was so nice to see them all and be able to catch up! Sandrine paid me the biggest compliment ever too which was good by saying 'tu parles commme une francaise' (you speak like a French woman)...evidently all my hard work and effort hasn't been in vain! Had a great night and saw how the French party, which was great. The only disappointment of the night in all honesty was that I had to leave before the end as I had to get back to the hostel to pack up my things and sleep ready to check-out early and then travel back to Pau. Definitely an awesome few days! :)
Won't bore you about the journey back, not much I can say of any interest about 9 and a half hours on a train, but I was knackered when I arrived back on Sunday night...a memorable weekend seeing old friends, making new ones and having lots of fun! :)
The Préfecture
Something else I was starting to realise was that town halls/council buildings in France are so much nicer looking than at home, give or take the odd one or two. They just look a lot prouder with the national flag flying outside and for the most part they are striking buldings. Don't get me wrong, that isn't to say that I don't think that my fellow countrymen and women aren't patriotic, quite the contrary in fact, but I do think that there is a distinct lack of such things at home, well except for when the World Cup is being contested and you see flags absolutely everywhere!
After having done my photocall at the Préfecture I rang Sarah to find out what was going on and found out that they were on the tram on their way into town, decided to go to the tram stop to wait for them and even then we managed to miss each other! Once we had all met up we went for a wander round the town, as the others hadn't already had the chance to due to being at the conference on Friday and given that the Leeds people wanted a bit of time to do their own thing they had re-arranged to meet up with the French people in the evening. Just going to brush over the afternoon as not too much to speak of, after having wandered round for a bit we met up with the rest of the Leeds lot (who had gone off for a look round as well) and soaked up some of the sun sat in a café in Place de la République.
At 6, we went down to Place de l'Éperon to meet the French people like yesterday, although not all of them were able to make it for various reasons which was a shame and then as we were waiting Sarah received a text from her teacher saying they had to go for a debrief- talk about no warning! Given that I was the only one among us not to have been at the seminar I didn't need to go, although as Sarah had forgotten to bring my shopping with her which I left at her hotel and they didn't know how long they'd be needed for, she suggested I run back up to the hotel to retrieve it given that they had to leave earlier than me to come home the following morning. Knew roughly where I was going from when Sarah came to meet me on Friday night, although I can't have paid much attention given that the first thing I did was get off the tram at the wrong stop! Clever...then had to negotiate my way through the uni to get back to where I needed to be and consequently find the hotel, which I managed to do fairly easily after I had found where I needed to be! Then jumped back on the tram to go and meet them all. It was on my way back that I receieved my phone call from Sandrine (my friend from orchestra) with info about us meeting up, so had a better idea as to what was going on...I'm really not the type of person who likes to be kept in the dark...
Went back to find the others as there was an hour and a quarter until Sandrine would come to find me in Place de la Rép and I knew I wouldn't get to see Sarah and the others after that given that they had to leave at 9 whereas I had my train at midday.
Stayed with them in the restaurant where they had eaten until everyone moved to a bar in the Old Town opposite the Town Hall taking many a photo en route!
Us with the Le Mans 24 statuette
Once at the bar I literally stayed two minutes as I had to head back to wait for Sandrine to come and find me and then go to a bar where another of the orchestra people from 2005 was celebrating his birthday, so it turned out to be quite a reunion! :) In all, there was Sandrine, Cecile (who both stayed with me in Bolton), Guillaume, Gildas and Thibault (who was the one celebrating his birthday). Was so nice to see them all and be able to catch up! Sandrine paid me the biggest compliment ever too which was good by saying 'tu parles commme une francaise' (you speak like a French woman)...evidently all my hard work and effort hasn't been in vain! Had a great night and saw how the French party, which was great. The only disappointment of the night in all honesty was that I had to leave before the end as I had to get back to the hostel to pack up my things and sleep ready to check-out early and then travel back to Pau. Definitely an awesome few days! :)
Won't bore you about the journey back, not much I can say of any interest about 9 and a half hours on a train, but I was knackered when I arrived back on Sunday night...a memorable weekend seeing old friends, making new ones and having lots of fun! :)
More than 24h in Le Mans (part 2)
After having found the Palais de Congrès and reminiscing for a few minutes I decided to wander back into the town centre to try and find the Cathedral which had been eluding me all day...given that it is probably one of the biggest structures/buildings in Le Mans it's quite a difficult thing to do by all accounts! Had a bit of a detour into the Centre de Jacobins Shopping Centre en route though, which again reminded me of when I was there last and after a good mooch round I continued with Operation:Find Cathedral. It was on this mission that I seemed to stumble upon everything at once, the Cathedral, the Hotel de Ville and Avenue de Paderborn which I felt the need to find given that it is our other twin town...sad I know.
Le Mans Cathedral
Even though Aurore (one of the double-bassists from IYP who hosted me during our brief stay in Le Mans in 2005) had taken me round before, I decided to have a look round the Cathedral as again I wanted to take photos due to me forgetting my camera. I wouldnt say I enjoy looking round churches per se, but I love the stained-glass windows, particularly on nice days as it was, when the sun shines through and lights them up. Lit a candle while I was there too :)
One of the many...
One of Le Mans tourist attractions (apart from the race...)
After having looked round the Cathedral I crossed the road to see the Hotel de Ville. When we were with orchestra we had a reception there with the Mayor of Le Mans and some other important people (I forget exactly who as they were so important...), I remember having to translate his speech for some of my friends, although they conveniently understood when they said that the buffet they had put on for us was open...we had a group photo taken outside too maybe for the local newspaper, I don't remember now.
By the time I had finished retracing my steps, it was more or less time to go and meet my penfriend back at the shopping centre. While en route I got a text from Sarah saying that their conference had finished and asking where I was/what I was doing etc, so given that I thought I'd only see her on Saturday, another turn up for the books! When I arrived at Place des Jacobins where Leslie and I had arranged to meet I had a fair idea of who to look for given that I had seen photos, but even when I spotted a potential 'Leslie' I still wasnt 100%, she rang my phone though so problem solved. Was nice to finally meet after having corresponded for around 5 years. We walked and talked as we went back up to Place de la République, before she decided to show me her favourite shop. On leaving the shop she told me we were off to meet her friend who she usually meets on Fridays at the time she was with me and then all three of us went to the patisserie to buy a pastry to have a mini picnic in the park. We stayed there until it started to get cool and the girls had to shoot off to be elsewhere, but they gave me a lift up to the university which was next to the hotel where Sarah and the others were staying which was nice. Really glad to have finally been able to meet up and hopefully will meet up again soon if I get the chance to head back up North before heading home :)
Sarah came to meet me and bless her, she hadn't brought a coat so was freezing when I arrived! So we rather quickly walked back to the hotel where the others were getting ready to go out, I on the other hand hadnt been back to my hostel since leaving that morning so wasn't exactly looking my best, but never mind. Used some of Sarah's perfume, brushed my hair etc, so could have been worse. Once sorted, we all convened in James' room given that for some reason it seemed to be bigger than all the others...there's always one! It was the same when I was in halls at my uni a few years ago!
Given that there was already arrangements, I relied on them all to let me know what was what, the first being that we were going to a restaurant in town with the French people from the seminar. We got on the tram to Place de l'Epéron which was the designated meeting place (where I had also been earlier in the day by coincidence) and the French people were there waiting for us, where I had to be introduced to everyone yet again as I was the only one there who hadn't been at the seminar during the day...I'm pretty sure Sarah got fed up of having to repeat herself! Had a great meal at the restaurant, conversation was interesting I have to say! haha :) Learnt some new french words/phrases from the French people too which is always useful!
Dash, Sarah and Me in Le Bistro
After settling the bill, we reconvened outside to decide where to go for drinks. Given that I had only been to one bar in Le Mans, I, just like all the other Leeds people relied on the locals as to where to go. They initially decided to take us to an Irish bar on Place de la République given that it was virtually on the doorstep of the restuarant and then decide whether to go somewhere else afterwards. Once we had made one huge table out of more or less all the little tables in the room and had all bought a beverage of some variety, James decided to teach the French that good old English game of trying to throw a coin into someone's glass, initially he didn't let on as to what he was doing, but people soon realised and joined in...always good for a laugh, especially if people really aren't anticipating it! :)
After that we went to another bar before calling it a night and making arrangements as to what we were going to do on Saturday, as there were a number of us who decided to leave at once Mégan, being the gentleman that he is drove the other girls back to their hotel given that they had missed the last tram and I walked back to the hostel on strict instruction from Sarah to text her when I arrived to let her know I was back safely. Retired to bed tired, though feeling quite accomplished having had an awesome day :)
Le Mans Cathedral
Even though Aurore (one of the double-bassists from IYP who hosted me during our brief stay in Le Mans in 2005) had taken me round before, I decided to have a look round the Cathedral as again I wanted to take photos due to me forgetting my camera. I wouldnt say I enjoy looking round churches per se, but I love the stained-glass windows, particularly on nice days as it was, when the sun shines through and lights them up. Lit a candle while I was there too :)
One of the many...
One of Le Mans tourist attractions (apart from the race...)
After having looked round the Cathedral I crossed the road to see the Hotel de Ville. When we were with orchestra we had a reception there with the Mayor of Le Mans and some other important people (I forget exactly who as they were so important...), I remember having to translate his speech for some of my friends, although they conveniently understood when they said that the buffet they had put on for us was open...we had a group photo taken outside too maybe for the local newspaper, I don't remember now.
By the time I had finished retracing my steps, it was more or less time to go and meet my penfriend back at the shopping centre. While en route I got a text from Sarah saying that their conference had finished and asking where I was/what I was doing etc, so given that I thought I'd only see her on Saturday, another turn up for the books! When I arrived at Place des Jacobins where Leslie and I had arranged to meet I had a fair idea of who to look for given that I had seen photos, but even when I spotted a potential 'Leslie' I still wasnt 100%, she rang my phone though so problem solved. Was nice to finally meet after having corresponded for around 5 years. We walked and talked as we went back up to Place de la République, before she decided to show me her favourite shop. On leaving the shop she told me we were off to meet her friend who she usually meets on Fridays at the time she was with me and then all three of us went to the patisserie to buy a pastry to have a mini picnic in the park. We stayed there until it started to get cool and the girls had to shoot off to be elsewhere, but they gave me a lift up to the university which was next to the hotel where Sarah and the others were staying which was nice. Really glad to have finally been able to meet up and hopefully will meet up again soon if I get the chance to head back up North before heading home :)
Sarah came to meet me and bless her, she hadn't brought a coat so was freezing when I arrived! So we rather quickly walked back to the hotel where the others were getting ready to go out, I on the other hand hadnt been back to my hostel since leaving that morning so wasn't exactly looking my best, but never mind. Used some of Sarah's perfume, brushed my hair etc, so could have been worse. Once sorted, we all convened in James' room given that for some reason it seemed to be bigger than all the others...there's always one! It was the same when I was in halls at my uni a few years ago!
Given that there was already arrangements, I relied on them all to let me know what was what, the first being that we were going to a restaurant in town with the French people from the seminar. We got on the tram to Place de l'Epéron which was the designated meeting place (where I had also been earlier in the day by coincidence) and the French people were there waiting for us, where I had to be introduced to everyone yet again as I was the only one there who hadn't been at the seminar during the day...I'm pretty sure Sarah got fed up of having to repeat herself! Had a great meal at the restaurant, conversation was interesting I have to say! haha :) Learnt some new french words/phrases from the French people too which is always useful!
Dash, Sarah and Me in Le Bistro
After settling the bill, we reconvened outside to decide where to go for drinks. Given that I had only been to one bar in Le Mans, I, just like all the other Leeds people relied on the locals as to where to go. They initially decided to take us to an Irish bar on Place de la République given that it was virtually on the doorstep of the restuarant and then decide whether to go somewhere else afterwards. Once we had made one huge table out of more or less all the little tables in the room and had all bought a beverage of some variety, James decided to teach the French that good old English game of trying to throw a coin into someone's glass, initially he didn't let on as to what he was doing, but people soon realised and joined in...always good for a laugh, especially if people really aren't anticipating it! :)
After that we went to another bar before calling it a night and making arrangements as to what we were going to do on Saturday, as there were a number of us who decided to leave at once Mégan, being the gentleman that he is drove the other girls back to their hotel given that they had missed the last tram and I walked back to the hostel on strict instruction from Sarah to text her when I arrived to let her know I was back safely. Retired to bed tired, though feeling quite accomplished having had an awesome day :)
Monday, March 2, 2009
More than 24h in Le Mans! (part 1)
Last night I arrived back from Le Mans where I spent the weekend and it was brilliant! :) Weird as it sounds it was kind of planned but also kind of spontaneous (I fully realise that this is a contradiction in terms)...I'll explain, in January I received a letter from Sarah, one of my friends from university saying she had to go to a conference in Le Mans at the end of February and did I fancy a weekend up there to see her/catch-up, so I agreed (hence the kind of planned bit. The spontaneity was that it ended up depending on whether I got paid in time which fortunately I did when I checked my account at midnight last Wednesday night, a rather excitable phone call to Sarah followed, and then I hurriedly booked train tickets/accommodation given that I had to be up at 7 and by the time I had finished sorting it all out extremely last minute it was half one, so didnt get that much sleep which isnt good when travelling.
Anyway, now that I have explained all that I can get on with writing about the weekend itself...this could be quite a long post, haha! :)
Arrived in Le Mans late Thursday afternoon after having taken three trains (one of which I'd have missed if it wasn't for the fact it was running late) and travelling for 9 hours. Had very little idea as to where my hostel actually was, although I knew from having rang while I was in Nantes that I had to take the tram to République...having said that, my first thought was that I seriously didn't remember there being a tram when I was there four years ago! Ah well, anyway, following the instructions I managed to get to République, but then completely forgot the directions they had given me from there, so had to make another phone call and then not long after had checked in, got my room (which I had to myself even though there were two beds!). After having a look round the hostel to find my bearings I ventured back out into Le Mans given that I was only 10-15 minutes walk from the centre and it was still light. Wasn't long before I considered bed given that I was so tired from not that much sleep the previous night and a long time travelling, plus I wanted to get up to re-trace my steps around Le Mans on Friday morning! As a rule I refuse to lie-in when I visit somewhere, I don't see the point in paying to be somewhere if you're just going to spend the majority of the time you're there in bed! Anyway, got into bed and was just drifting off to sleep when I got a text from one of my French friends saying she was around and wanted to meet up! Was so excited given that the last time we saw each other was when we were on tour 4 years ago (will explain this in more detail further on...), so a good end to a tiring day!
Friday, got up, albeit not at my alarm (snatched another hour's sleep, I needed it!). Was a gorgeous day, so in order to be able to retrace my steps from my last visit I made my way to the tourist office on foot to pick up some info and a map (this seems to have become a habit of mine when I go places...) and thus my trip down memory lane began! It didn't take long before I came across something familiar...the shopping centre opposite the tourist office I remembered visiting during my last visit, so I knew everything else had to be close by. I continued down the side streets by the centre and then found the Le Mans 24 Statuette, which again I remembered...well given that the 24 hour race is one of the things Le Mans is famous for, if not the most famous thing, it would be quite difficult to forget about it.
There were also plaques of the hand and foot prints of previous winners of the race
I had a list of places I wanted to revisit given that when I was on tour and we did a concert in Le Mans in 2005 I left my camera at home...genius! When I say on tour, I don't mean singing or dancing or whatever, I doubt anyone would come if that was the case. Every two years, the orchestras of Bolton and it's two twin towns, Le Mans (France) and Paderborn (Germany) unite for two weeks and tour the three towns performing a concert in each and I had the opportunity to be part of the International Youth Philharmonic Orchestra (or IYP for short) where I played the viola in 2005, hence my previous visit to Le Mans. Given that we had to rehearse and prepare for our concert it would be fair to say that I didnt get to appreciate the town that much when I was there in 2005, it was literally a whistle-stop tour of the town as we only had two days before we had to leave and travel to Paderborn to perform.
My first port-of-call I intended to be the Cathedral, which I initially found quite difficult to find. That said, I thought I had found it until I looked at the map and realised that what I had found was the Eglise de la Visitation in the Old Town- I admit it did take me a while to realise that it wasn't actually the Cathedral...
Given that I was already in the Old Town I decided to explore as not only am I majorly interested in History, I also thought that the place had a lot of character. I found a Tudor-style (I have forgotten the techincal term, so that'll do :P) house that I loved. Just to show you how contrary a person I actually am, I would either have as my ideal house/home an old house with a lot of history or a brand new chic apartment...from one extreme to the other...
I then decided to go in search of the place where we performed our concert in Le Mans, the Palais de Congres as I saw some signs for it, so knew I must be nearby, again, wasn't as easy as I thought but soon managed it. I do actually miss being on stage, there was something about concerts, the adrenaline and the buzz you get from performing that I loved. If time allowed I'm sure I'd still play now, that and if the musicians at uni weren't as snobby as they are...fond memories nontheless though and I do still play when I get chance :)
Whilst I was looking for the Palais de Congres I got a reply to a message I had sent to one of my penfriends the night before who is from Le Mans (well, obviously) saying that she was available and wanted to meet up a few hours later, which was great. We have been penfriends for around five years though never met, so was quite excited at the prospect I have to say!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Grenoble: The Conclusion and journey back
Well Tempus Fugit as they say in Latin! Where has the week gone? Can't believe I am now back home in Pau...the last two days were busy, so I am going to have to write about them now and get back up to speed with everything. Here goes...
Sunday, after yet another late get up(I should really stop saying late and just say normal, given that it is becoming somewhat of a habit!) Cea and I decided to brave the weather as it was colder than it had been and also starting to rain, but I suggested going round town to take some last few photos given that I knew I wouldn't have time on Monday due to having to finish packing and consequently drive to the airport. The views weren't great either which made me glad that I had taken pictures of the mountains on my birthday when it was brighter and warmer. After briefly stopping to buy some churros at Place Victor Hugo (they are so much cheaper there!) we got some great snaps, Cea doing her trademark pose as ever...legend that she is, would I have her any other way...not for all the tea in China!! :)
Cea on one of the bridges over the Isere
both of us
Continued to have a walk around and it transpired that Cea even though she has lived in Grenoble for years had never actually done the whole tourist thing when she arrived, so was taking almost as many photos as me! Found it rather amusing given that when I first arrived in Pau that was exactly what I did...granted not the best way to blend in with the natives, but I had a week to kill before I started work, so why not? :)
When we arrived back at their apartment we (well more me and Cea) watched Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares ('Cauchemar en Cuisine') which is a programme I love and am an avid fan of at home, even if sometimes I am quite repulsed at the state of some restaurants and kitchens! Gordon Ransey tells it straight though which is what I like about him. It's always hilarious when you get some wannabe chef completely ignoring him...good move, ignoring a world class chef with more Michelin stars than I care to mention!! Ah well, they soon realise fortunately. I was intrigued to see it on French TV given that I know Gordon Ramsey speaks fluent French given he did some of his training in France (I think!) and currently has a restaurant in Paris, therefore I wondered whether it was a version he had filmed in France or whether it was a dubbed version of the English series- it was the latter. I have to admit watching dubbed tv programmes or film can be annoying sometimes, but this was ok...I even learnt some new vocabulary from watching it given that Cea burst out laughing at random intervals and me then enquiring as to why. After that we ate tea, which Cea prepared, pasta,chicken and veg...pasta fills me up every time which is why I never order it as a starter in restaurants unless I absolutely have to. Was nice even though it inevitably defeated me in the end.
After that we pretty much chilled out for the remainder of the evening before retiring to bed at 1.30am realising that we'd have to be up slightly earlier the following morning in order to get ready to head off to the airport in the afternoon.
Monday- as was also becoming habitual, Nans jumped on me 'to wake me up' even though I was already awake, haha! He sure knows how to make my day interesting! This time he regretted it though I'm sure given that he fell backwards afterwards...not that far given that the bed I was sleeping on was on the floor, but it was hilarious nonetheless :) Once up and sorted out, I ran to the nearest supermarket to buy supplies for my journey given that on the way I had paid almost 8€ just to buy a muffin and a bottle of cola at Bordeaux Airport...there is something about train stations and airports knowing that you can't go anywhere else once you get there that makes them think that they can charge you what they want, the prices are ridiculous...but that's something I could go on and on about so suffice to leave it there and you get my point...
Not long after at 3pm we set off to the airport, I was chatty when I set off, but anybody who knows me knows that something is wrong when I am 'too' quiet, which was how I became about half way through the journey as I knew I'd have to say bye to them both when we got to the airport. I have to say I don't do goodbyes very well, I much prefer 'see you laters' it doesnt sound as final. Got to the airport around 4pm, which gave me plenty of time given that check-in for my flight didn't even open until 5.20! And thus began our mission to find Terminal 3...easier said than done! I think from entering the airport it was at least 10, maybe 15 minutes until I was actually where I needed to be! Cea and Nans came about halfway with me and then after saying goodbye and them seeing me into a lift I was left to fend for myself, which after having been round almost all the airport following signs (which in theory would make it easy) it wasn't too difficult. Having said that it was still annoying as somewhere on my journey from Pau to Bordeaux last week my brand new suitcase weirdly lost its wheels, which meant either dragging my suitcase along the floor and endure rather irritating grinding noises or carry it...I did tend to drag it and bear the noises in truth. Won't go through the airport procedure in detail as it is boring and all I need to say is that as per usual I set the security alarm off so had to be frisked...I have actually managed to go through without setting the alarm off, but not that often, chances are it's going to happen!
Flight was on time and arrived in Bordeaux at half 8, got my luggage and then had to go and wait for the shuttle bus to go to the town centre so I could go to the hotel where I had booked in for the night as I knew I'd miss the last train back to Pau which was at 9. Wasn't a flashy hotel, but it did the job and it was only for one night, so couldn't complain. There was a tv in my room though which is a novelty at the moment given that we don't have one at home in Pau, watched it for a while before sleeping. Knew I'd have to be up early again given that my train was at 11.
Will skim over today as to be fair there's not too much to speak of. Got up, paid the bill at the hotel, then went to the station to catch the TGV back down to Pau. My journey would have been boring had it not been for my i-pod...my reliance on technology is ridiculous, lol. Arrived back in Pau around half past one then dragged my suitcase (again!) through the town centre to get the bus home. Finally got back to my arm's relief, was aching badly when I arrived. Found some birthday cards on the table waiting for me from family and friends at home, so any aches and pains were soon forgotten about! :)
Headed back into the town centre basically as I had nothing better to do and needed to fill up the fridge. Bought two books in French from the Fnac (one of which I intend to start tomorrow if not tonight) as I really do need to start reading more in French instead of just magazines, bought food, came back and wrote this...I live such an exciting life! :)
Had a great week and I wouldn't have changed it for anything except for the fact that 2 weeks ago my Mum sent a parcel to Cea's containing a birthday present for me although it never got there, we have no idea what has happened to it, but I really hope it shows up soon! Cea and Nans are going to keep an eye out in Grenoble and Mum is going to go and ask at the post office at home so we'll just have to see what happens from that if anything for the time being. The only other downside being that the week flew by as I said previously!
Nothing else to report but that's up to date now at least! Not exactly sure how the rest of the week is going to pan out at the moment, but I'm sure I'll report on it, whatever happens. Ciao! :)
Also if anyone is interested, Ceall (who is an aspiring writer might I add) started a blog on here whilst I was in Grenoble and also has her own website with some of her work- I have added both the addresses to the list of links at the right-hand side of the screen
Sunday, after yet another late get up(I should really stop saying late and just say normal, given that it is becoming somewhat of a habit!) Cea and I decided to brave the weather as it was colder than it had been and also starting to rain, but I suggested going round town to take some last few photos given that I knew I wouldn't have time on Monday due to having to finish packing and consequently drive to the airport. The views weren't great either which made me glad that I had taken pictures of the mountains on my birthday when it was brighter and warmer. After briefly stopping to buy some churros at Place Victor Hugo (they are so much cheaper there!) we got some great snaps, Cea doing her trademark pose as ever...legend that she is, would I have her any other way...not for all the tea in China!! :)
Cea on one of the bridges over the Isere
both of us
Continued to have a walk around and it transpired that Cea even though she has lived in Grenoble for years had never actually done the whole tourist thing when she arrived, so was taking almost as many photos as me! Found it rather amusing given that when I first arrived in Pau that was exactly what I did...granted not the best way to blend in with the natives, but I had a week to kill before I started work, so why not? :)
When we arrived back at their apartment we (well more me and Cea) watched Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares ('Cauchemar en Cuisine') which is a programme I love and am an avid fan of at home, even if sometimes I am quite repulsed at the state of some restaurants and kitchens! Gordon Ransey tells it straight though which is what I like about him. It's always hilarious when you get some wannabe chef completely ignoring him...good move, ignoring a world class chef with more Michelin stars than I care to mention!! Ah well, they soon realise fortunately. I was intrigued to see it on French TV given that I know Gordon Ramsey speaks fluent French given he did some of his training in France (I think!) and currently has a restaurant in Paris, therefore I wondered whether it was a version he had filmed in France or whether it was a dubbed version of the English series- it was the latter. I have to admit watching dubbed tv programmes or film can be annoying sometimes, but this was ok...I even learnt some new vocabulary from watching it given that Cea burst out laughing at random intervals and me then enquiring as to why. After that we ate tea, which Cea prepared, pasta,chicken and veg...pasta fills me up every time which is why I never order it as a starter in restaurants unless I absolutely have to. Was nice even though it inevitably defeated me in the end.
After that we pretty much chilled out for the remainder of the evening before retiring to bed at 1.30am realising that we'd have to be up slightly earlier the following morning in order to get ready to head off to the airport in the afternoon.
Monday- as was also becoming habitual, Nans jumped on me 'to wake me up' even though I was already awake, haha! He sure knows how to make my day interesting! This time he regretted it though I'm sure given that he fell backwards afterwards...not that far given that the bed I was sleeping on was on the floor, but it was hilarious nonetheless :) Once up and sorted out, I ran to the nearest supermarket to buy supplies for my journey given that on the way I had paid almost 8€ just to buy a muffin and a bottle of cola at Bordeaux Airport...there is something about train stations and airports knowing that you can't go anywhere else once you get there that makes them think that they can charge you what they want, the prices are ridiculous...but that's something I could go on and on about so suffice to leave it there and you get my point...
Not long after at 3pm we set off to the airport, I was chatty when I set off, but anybody who knows me knows that something is wrong when I am 'too' quiet, which was how I became about half way through the journey as I knew I'd have to say bye to them both when we got to the airport. I have to say I don't do goodbyes very well, I much prefer 'see you laters' it doesnt sound as final. Got to the airport around 4pm, which gave me plenty of time given that check-in for my flight didn't even open until 5.20! And thus began our mission to find Terminal 3...easier said than done! I think from entering the airport it was at least 10, maybe 15 minutes until I was actually where I needed to be! Cea and Nans came about halfway with me and then after saying goodbye and them seeing me into a lift I was left to fend for myself, which after having been round almost all the airport following signs (which in theory would make it easy) it wasn't too difficult. Having said that it was still annoying as somewhere on my journey from Pau to Bordeaux last week my brand new suitcase weirdly lost its wheels, which meant either dragging my suitcase along the floor and endure rather irritating grinding noises or carry it...I did tend to drag it and bear the noises in truth. Won't go through the airport procedure in detail as it is boring and all I need to say is that as per usual I set the security alarm off so had to be frisked...I have actually managed to go through without setting the alarm off, but not that often, chances are it's going to happen!
Flight was on time and arrived in Bordeaux at half 8, got my luggage and then had to go and wait for the shuttle bus to go to the town centre so I could go to the hotel where I had booked in for the night as I knew I'd miss the last train back to Pau which was at 9. Wasn't a flashy hotel, but it did the job and it was only for one night, so couldn't complain. There was a tv in my room though which is a novelty at the moment given that we don't have one at home in Pau, watched it for a while before sleeping. Knew I'd have to be up early again given that my train was at 11.
Will skim over today as to be fair there's not too much to speak of. Got up, paid the bill at the hotel, then went to the station to catch the TGV back down to Pau. My journey would have been boring had it not been for my i-pod...my reliance on technology is ridiculous, lol. Arrived back in Pau around half past one then dragged my suitcase (again!) through the town centre to get the bus home. Finally got back to my arm's relief, was aching badly when I arrived. Found some birthday cards on the table waiting for me from family and friends at home, so any aches and pains were soon forgotten about! :)
Headed back into the town centre basically as I had nothing better to do and needed to fill up the fridge. Bought two books in French from the Fnac (one of which I intend to start tomorrow if not tonight) as I really do need to start reading more in French instead of just magazines, bought food, came back and wrote this...I live such an exciting life! :)
Had a great week and I wouldn't have changed it for anything except for the fact that 2 weeks ago my Mum sent a parcel to Cea's containing a birthday present for me although it never got there, we have no idea what has happened to it, but I really hope it shows up soon! Cea and Nans are going to keep an eye out in Grenoble and Mum is going to go and ask at the post office at home so we'll just have to see what happens from that if anything for the time being. The only other downside being that the week flew by as I said previously!
Nothing else to report but that's up to date now at least! Not exactly sure how the rest of the week is going to pan out at the moment, but I'm sure I'll report on it, whatever happens. Ciao! :)
Also if anyone is interested, Ceall (who is an aspiring writer might I add) started a blog on here whilst I was in Grenoble and also has her own website with some of her work- I have added both the addresses to the list of links at the right-hand side of the screen
Friday, February 20, 2009
Exploring/Shopping in Grenoble? Yes please!
Friday, after another late get-up (I am starting to sound so lazy, haha) Cea and I decided to go off in search of some bargains in Grenoble, well for me it was also a chance to see more of the city. Was slightly warmer today too which was nice, so we took complete advantage and ate our lunch sat in the sun outside the Cathedral Notre Dame in the city centre with a spectacular view of the mountains as our backdrop. After having spent a good two/three hours in town we arrived back and proceeded to somewhat reminisce about our childhood, anything from tv programmes to music...I swear we are becoming old before our time! Yesterday we got an invite to go to eat at their neighbours' apartment, although as Cea and I were travelling back from Grenoble we postponed it until tonight. It was worth waiting for too! We had a sort of chicken curry with coconut and rice, it was delicious! Apparently it was a Creole dish, but from one of the girls' grandmothers' recipes. I had met one of the girls on my birthday as she briefly came round to ask why their internet wasn't working (which as it happened was due to my laptop!) but they were both very welcoming and as it turned out we had an excellent meal in very good company so I can't complain :). No idea what plans are for tomorrow are at the moment, but I'm sure we'll get up to something! Can't believe it is weekend already, this week is flying by!
Given that this post about Friday was so short in comparison to other posts, I have decided to write about Saturday here too given that it was pretty much more of the same. Cea and I went out into Grenoble centre again in theory to do some shopping although our attention was diverted in the direction of a protest that around a hundred people were staging there concerning the current situation in Guadeloupe and Martinique. At first we weren't sure as to what the protest was about, but when we were given a leaflet by a man from the Anti-Capitalist party we were enlightened and decided to discuss the matter further between ourselves over a coffee and a hot chocolate at a café across the road from where the protesters were. I myself have only protested once (as I have said before protests are a lot more common in France than in England) which was for the Make Poverty History campaign in 2005 in Edinburgh (coincidentally it was also my first and only time in Scotland, would like to go back though given that we didn't see too much of it that day), but as Céa has lived in France for almost seven years, she has done many a protest as has Nans. Even though I have now witnessed around 5 protests in my time here, I still find them both strange and spectacular.
We then went to buy some pick 'n' mix (we are both about ten at heart) and then went for a sit-down and a chat in Place Victor Hugo where we took some random photos...as you do :) Returned to their's where we had quite a chilled night, not too much to speak of on that front. Not sure what plans are for tomorrow, but given that everywhere is closed as like everywhere in France I think it'll be somewhat less eventful.
Given that this post about Friday was so short in comparison to other posts, I have decided to write about Saturday here too given that it was pretty much more of the same. Cea and I went out into Grenoble centre again in theory to do some shopping although our attention was diverted in the direction of a protest that around a hundred people were staging there concerning the current situation in Guadeloupe and Martinique. At first we weren't sure as to what the protest was about, but when we were given a leaflet by a man from the Anti-Capitalist party we were enlightened and decided to discuss the matter further between ourselves over a coffee and a hot chocolate at a café across the road from where the protesters were. I myself have only protested once (as I have said before protests are a lot more common in France than in England) which was for the Make Poverty History campaign in 2005 in Edinburgh (coincidentally it was also my first and only time in Scotland, would like to go back though given that we didn't see too much of it that day), but as Céa has lived in France for almost seven years, she has done many a protest as has Nans. Even though I have now witnessed around 5 protests in my time here, I still find them both strange and spectacular.
We then went to buy some pick 'n' mix (we are both about ten at heart) and then went for a sit-down and a chat in Place Victor Hugo where we took some random photos...as you do :) Returned to their's where we had quite a chilled night, not too much to speak of on that front. Not sure what plans are for tomorrow, but given that everywhere is closed as like everywhere in France I think it'll be somewhat less eventful.
Our day in Vion
As we knew we'd only have a day in Vion, we decided to make the most of it by firstly sleeping in until the early afternoon (which I can't help but feel was a good use of our time)and after eating Cea and I decided to go for a walk. Vion is a village so there isn't that much to do otherwise but the scenery it has to be said was spectacular!
What is more, a fighter jet passed over, which was definitely an added bonus! My Dad used to work in a factory, building aircraft so it would be fair to say that I have been fairly well educated on all things to do with aviation and aircraft! Was loud when it passed overhead but spectacular nonetheless especially as it seemed to come out of nowhere! After that we returned back to Chez Garcia momentarily before heading back out to go and see Cea's grandparents who live across the road- I had met them once before but when I was 15, so I was quite flattered that they seemed to remember me when Cea re-introduced me. Having said that when I was 15 my spoken French was nowhere near the level I am now given that I hadn't even done my GCSEs then! They seemed suitably impressed though, so much to the point that they asked if it was due to the fact that I had a French boyfriend, to which I replied that it wasn't but due to hard work and living with French people in Pau. Cea's grandad drove out to get us some donuts from the bakery in the next town along from Vion as the bakery in Vion itself was shut, even though we said that there was no need and the rest of us stayed and chatted- I must say I still find it a little strange speaking French to Cea but I suppose it is just because I am so used to speaking English to her and we did meet in England. Come half past six, Jackie drove us back to the train station in Tain l'Hermitage-Tournon and our return journey to Grenoble began. This time our journey consisted of a train and then a coach from Valence (just as Jackie and Alanna had done the previous day). We arrived back in Grenoble tired and cold as the temperatures in the Rhone-Alpes seem to be slightly cooler than those in Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Once we arrived back we ate Ravioles (which Cea told me are a regional dish, very nice they are too!) and then after chilling for a little while decided to go to bed. For me getting to sleep was difficult though as their cat, Figaro (who I believe usually sleeps in the living room) kept scratching at the door which was quite irritating and at one point actually managed to push the door open and sneak in, so after about half an hour of disturbance all was well...peace at last :)
Cea's family's dogs:
Sparky
and Loulout
What is more, a fighter jet passed over, which was definitely an added bonus! My Dad used to work in a factory, building aircraft so it would be fair to say that I have been fairly well educated on all things to do with aviation and aircraft! Was loud when it passed overhead but spectacular nonetheless especially as it seemed to come out of nowhere! After that we returned back to Chez Garcia momentarily before heading back out to go and see Cea's grandparents who live across the road- I had met them once before but when I was 15, so I was quite flattered that they seemed to remember me when Cea re-introduced me. Having said that when I was 15 my spoken French was nowhere near the level I am now given that I hadn't even done my GCSEs then! They seemed suitably impressed though, so much to the point that they asked if it was due to the fact that I had a French boyfriend, to which I replied that it wasn't but due to hard work and living with French people in Pau. Cea's grandad drove out to get us some donuts from the bakery in the next town along from Vion as the bakery in Vion itself was shut, even though we said that there was no need and the rest of us stayed and chatted- I must say I still find it a little strange speaking French to Cea but I suppose it is just because I am so used to speaking English to her and we did meet in England. Come half past six, Jackie drove us back to the train station in Tain l'Hermitage-Tournon and our return journey to Grenoble began. This time our journey consisted of a train and then a coach from Valence (just as Jackie and Alanna had done the previous day). We arrived back in Grenoble tired and cold as the temperatures in the Rhone-Alpes seem to be slightly cooler than those in Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Once we arrived back we ate Ravioles (which Cea told me are a regional dish, very nice they are too!) and then after chilling for a little while decided to go to bed. For me getting to sleep was difficult though as their cat, Figaro (who I believe usually sleeps in the living room) kept scratching at the door which was quite irritating and at one point actually managed to push the door open and sneak in, so after about half an hour of disturbance all was well...peace at last :)
Cea's family's dogs:
Sparky
and Loulout
Thursday, February 19, 2009
My 21st Birthday!
Was rather excited about my birthday yesterday, especially as I knew I'd be spending it with Cea who missed my 18th given that we live in two different countries as a rule, so this would be the first and last birthday in a while that we could celebrate together. We all stayed up late to welcome it in and once it got to midnight UK time (even though I'd counted it from midnight French time, ah well...technically I had a 26 hour birthday, can't complain! :P) Nans saw fit to abandon the computer game her had been playing for the best part of the afternoon wish me happy birthday and then consequently challenge me to a light-saber fight...why I'll never know, although knowing Nans I know full well that this is something normal, strange as it may seem...and granted I won! :) After all that excitement we all retired to bed given that we had to be up early for my 'surprise' on Wednesday morning.
Woke up on Wednesday to Cea and Nans rather amusingly jumping on me singing Happy Birthday...who needs an alarm clock when you have a best mate and her boyfriend to jump on you when you least expect it? haha :) Once they actually let me get up I saw there was a sign on the kitchen door saying 'Birthday Girls: Keep Out!' so I knew they were planning something else, again I had no idea what. She also admitted to me on leaving that she had conspired with my Mum with regards to my surprises...
We left the apartment for my first surprise and obviously I had no idea where we were going, not only because it was a surprise but also because it was my first proper venture out into Grenoble city centre. We initially headed over to the train/coach station where we met Cea's mum and youngest sister who had travelled over especially from the Ardeche and I was very pleased to see them as again I hadn't seen them in two and a half years- Alanna, Cea's sister has grown up so much, i can't believe it, time seriously flies!! After meeting up with them we headed off, again with me having no idea as to where we were going and it was only when we were about 2 minutes away from the cable car (télépherique) that Cea said 'Can you guess where we are going yet?', then it all became perfectly obvious. We took the cable car up to the Bastille where we realised that we were early for the reservation at the restaurant there, so we admired the view for a while and took lots of photos, Cea taking my Mum's request to heart, haha :)
After we had our meal we had another explore and took more photos before heading back to Cea and Nans' apartment where me and Nans in turn proceeded to have balloon fights with Alanna, who said turning 21 meant you had to act your age? :) While we were back Cea suprised me too with a cake and everyone sang happy birthday to me...I later found out she had made it at 8am that morning, which then made me realise why there was the sign on the kitchen door. I blew all the candles out with help from Alanna and then we all sat down to a slice of cake which, all credit to Cea was great! :)
Over lunch Cea and I had decided rather spontaneously to travel back to the Ardeche with Jackie and Alanna that night for an overnight stay so that I could see the rest of her family whilst I was on the East side of France, so we had to get all our things together ready to go to the train stations to get the two trains back. We rather pratically decided to pass the time on the train by quizzing Alanna in English (given that her English has improved a lot since the time I visited!!) and soon enough we arrived back in Tournon and then had to drive back to their house in Vion, where we ate and decided to go to bed given that we were tired after our rather epic day! Alanna also had the chance to give me her present which she had been looking forward to all day given that they originally left it at home by accident. Jackie, who is an artist made me a mirror using my two favourite colours (seems this conspiracy is bigger than first thought...) and Alanna had done me a card using both my favourite animal and my favourite colours. Good effort Ceall, I have to say, lol.
My mirror and card
Have to say I had a great birthday and I can't wait for the other celebrations that are going to follow, both back in Pau with my friends there and also back in England with my friends and family during the Easter holidays! Thankyou also to everyone who left me messages/sent me texts too, they mean a lot! :)
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Grenoble: Journey over and Day 1
The weekend wasn't overly eventful so I am going to briefly summarise what I did without dwelling too much on it. Friday, I voluntarily went in to College Marguerite to help a couple of students there with a presentation as the teacher wanted me to correct their pronunciation. After that I went for a walk around Parc Beaumont where I saw some students all dressed up and taking advantage of the sunny weather just as I was! Headed home after that I think, not a massively eventful day by all accounts and to be honest Saturday and Sunday weren't much better. Saturday I went and bought a small suitcase for my trip, given that the only ones I have with me are huge and for a trip to see my friends are quite excessive, after that I went home and started to pack given that I knew that if I left it all until Sunday I would, without a shadow of a doubt forget things. Sunday was spent partially on a walk around town making the most of the sun and the rest finishing off packing and consequently worrying about the weight of my case as always! It is always quite unnerving, especially as I very rarely travel light as many of my friends and family would vouch for, that said, I have paid my fair share of excess baggage since coming to France and refuse to again!
Monday, very excited as I knew I'd be seeing my best mate again for the first time in almost three years! It turned out to be quite a stressful journey though given that I almost missed the train to Bordeaux from Pau due to going into the town centre to buy supplies, supposedly to save time afterwards...didn't quite work on reflection...luckily the train was running five minutes late, so my pulse was able to return to normal instead of running overtime once I was on the train knowing that I had made it. On arriving at Bordeaux I had to make a grovelling phone call home to ask Mum to send me a bit of money so that I could get the shuttle bus/navette from the station to the airport as annoyingly I was 1€40 short and my purse was buried somewhere in my case. I also found out on arrival that somewhere on my journey the wheels on my brand new suitcase had come off, no idea how or where and then I started doubting their actual existence, although I swear I wheeled it home when I bought it on Saturday...ah well. Getting to the airport I checked in and went through all the motions as is normal, boarded the plane and then 55 minutes (approximately) I landed in Lyon. I collected my luggage and went to look for my friends who had driven from Grenoble to meet me and drive back. There was a bit of confusion at first although Ceallai soon found me and then we had to try and find her boyfriend Nans who had gone off to park the car...easier said than done we found out after having gone to the wrong floor initially, but we soon found him and who as always bear-hugged me before we got into the car to make the journey back. When we got to their apartment in Grenoble I got settled in and ready for bed given that I was quite tired after having been travelling for around 8 hours, but just before I got into bed, Nans decided to give me an early rendition of 'joyeux anniversaire', he seemed rather confused when I stopped him and it was only when I explained that my birthday was 18th that he realised his mistake.
Tuesday was spent mainly relaxing, we headed out to buy some supplies though apart from that it was mainly a stay in and chill day. Me and Cea as always got stuck into some girly magazines, doing the tests out of them for fun and laughs, before searching for even more tests on the internet! Was a later night than previously as we stayed up to see my birthday in at midnight! :) Will write all about my birthday tomorrow, but I have to say it has been a really good day! :)
Monday, very excited as I knew I'd be seeing my best mate again for the first time in almost three years! It turned out to be quite a stressful journey though given that I almost missed the train to Bordeaux from Pau due to going into the town centre to buy supplies, supposedly to save time afterwards...didn't quite work on reflection...luckily the train was running five minutes late, so my pulse was able to return to normal instead of running overtime once I was on the train knowing that I had made it. On arriving at Bordeaux I had to make a grovelling phone call home to ask Mum to send me a bit of money so that I could get the shuttle bus/navette from the station to the airport as annoyingly I was 1€40 short and my purse was buried somewhere in my case. I also found out on arrival that somewhere on my journey the wheels on my brand new suitcase had come off, no idea how or where and then I started doubting their actual existence, although I swear I wheeled it home when I bought it on Saturday...ah well. Getting to the airport I checked in and went through all the motions as is normal, boarded the plane and then 55 minutes (approximately) I landed in Lyon. I collected my luggage and went to look for my friends who had driven from Grenoble to meet me and drive back. There was a bit of confusion at first although Ceallai soon found me and then we had to try and find her boyfriend Nans who had gone off to park the car...easier said than done we found out after having gone to the wrong floor initially, but we soon found him and who as always bear-hugged me before we got into the car to make the journey back. When we got to their apartment in Grenoble I got settled in and ready for bed given that I was quite tired after having been travelling for around 8 hours, but just before I got into bed, Nans decided to give me an early rendition of 'joyeux anniversaire', he seemed rather confused when I stopped him and it was only when I explained that my birthday was 18th that he realised his mistake.
Tuesday was spent mainly relaxing, we headed out to buy some supplies though apart from that it was mainly a stay in and chill day. Me and Cea as always got stuck into some girly magazines, doing the tests out of them for fun and laughs, before searching for even more tests on the internet! Was a later night than previously as we stayed up to see my birthday in at midnight! :) Will write all about my birthday tomorrow, but I have to say it has been a really good day! :)
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Friday 13th....unlucky for some?
It doesn't really take a degree in rocket science to work out that the thirteenth day of the month follows the twelfth, but when the thirteenth falls on a Friday we are in completely different territory, like tomorrow. I would say I am superstitious to a point, but not obsessively- I am pretty sure I have walked underneath ladders before for example. Friday 13th however is one of those superstitions that I am quite suspicious and apprehensive about and there is without any doubt whatsoever at least one per year, however this year there are 3, one in February, one in March and one in November (we get a reprieve over summer it would seem!)I am not paranoid although I do think that it has certain connotations, as does the number 13 in itself. I am not a numerologist, but they don't say '13, unlucky for some' when playing bingo for nothing! There are exceptions to the rule however as I have read and known of people where the number 13 has been really lucky for them...just the luck of the draw I guess!
On to other things, I have a friend coming to visit in a month! I can't wait, it is going to be great to be able to show her round and go for days out together. She has never been to France before so that will be the first of many new experiences for her. She has never been abroad before (and she is almost 21) and so has never been on an aeroplane. When she booked her tickets rather spontaneously yesterday (as we found some cheap flights with Ryanair) she said afterwards that she was quite scared at the prospect although I'm pretty sure that she'll find it an enjoyable experience as opposed to a traumatic one! She is going to fly to Biarritz airport, so I am going to have to go and meet her there as she doesn't speak much French and it would be very mean to expect her to make her own way to Pau when she has no idea as to where to go! She will be in Pau from the 13th-16th March, so if I appear somewhat excitable around that time, that is the reason behind it.
I have no concrete plans for the weekend as it stands other than packing ready to go to Grenoble on Monday and I am trying to decide whether to celebrate my birthday with my friends in Pau this weekend or the weekend after the holidays when everyone will be back...tough call, I'll have to think about it and decide tomorrow...sleep on it as they say.
On to other things, I have a friend coming to visit in a month! I can't wait, it is going to be great to be able to show her round and go for days out together. She has never been to France before so that will be the first of many new experiences for her. She has never been abroad before (and she is almost 21) and so has never been on an aeroplane. When she booked her tickets rather spontaneously yesterday (as we found some cheap flights with Ryanair) she said afterwards that she was quite scared at the prospect although I'm pretty sure that she'll find it an enjoyable experience as opposed to a traumatic one! She is going to fly to Biarritz airport, so I am going to have to go and meet her there as she doesn't speak much French and it would be very mean to expect her to make her own way to Pau when she has no idea as to where to go! She will be in Pau from the 13th-16th March, so if I appear somewhat excitable around that time, that is the reason behind it.
I have no concrete plans for the weekend as it stands other than packing ready to go to Grenoble on Monday and I am trying to decide whether to celebrate my birthday with my friends in Pau this weekend or the weekend after the holidays when everyone will be back...tough call, I'll have to think about it and decide tomorrow...sleep on it as they say.
Candles
Flickering, fiery, flames,
a centrepiece for all to see
Many different types,
a bit like you and me
Eventually, after days, weeks, months
the candle dies,
Gone, extinguished, snuffed out,
as if it doesn’t matter.
My candles still burn on inside me,
they were blown out too soon
a centrepiece for all to see
Many different types,
a bit like you and me
Eventually, after days, weeks, months
the candle dies,
Gone, extinguished, snuffed out,
as if it doesn’t matter.
My candles still burn on inside me,
they were blown out too soon
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Poetry
My Time in France (up to now obviously!)
I was hesitant before my arrival,
although I knew things would be fine.
I had everything required for my survival,
and my friends would drop me a line
Nerves soon quelled and worries died
once I had been put at my ease
The weather was great and the sun shined,
well, for two months at least!
I love my job, I love my life,
all the kids make work a pleasure
There have been some moments of strife,
though all the memories I will treasure
I wish they'd remember I'm a 'miss' and not a 'mrs'
I hate formality, it's true
When meeting someone here they share kisses,
here's one from me to you
I can't believe how quickly time passes,
'tempus fugit' they do say
I have fun with all my classes,
each and every day
As much as I miss England,
I really don't want to go back
I'd love to be able to here stand,
and go off on my own little track
I love my time here in Pau,
I really don't want to eventually go
I was hesitant before my arrival,
although I knew things would be fine.
I had everything required for my survival,
and my friends would drop me a line
Nerves soon quelled and worries died
once I had been put at my ease
The weather was great and the sun shined,
well, for two months at least!
I love my job, I love my life,
all the kids make work a pleasure
There have been some moments of strife,
though all the memories I will treasure
I wish they'd remember I'm a 'miss' and not a 'mrs'
I hate formality, it's true
When meeting someone here they share kisses,
here's one from me to you
I can't believe how quickly time passes,
'tempus fugit' they do say
I have fun with all my classes,
each and every day
As much as I miss England,
I really don't want to go back
I'd love to be able to here stand,
and go off on my own little track
I love my time here in Pau,
I really don't want to eventually go
Dreams can come true...
I realise the title of this post is a little ambiguous, if not also rather optimistic (I am a die-hard pessimist at heart,believe it or not, well with regards to myself anyway, with everyone else, I am optimistic) but it refers to the fact that I have recently started to look into dream interpretation. I had a dream the other night (which I actually remembered after waking up for once- it annoys me when I have had a dream though can't remember it afterwards or can only remember bits, so my recollection of it is quite sketchy!)and as I could remember it quite vividly I was intrigued as to what it meant, so had a look online and to be honest the interpretation was more or less spot on! There wasn't an untruth in what it said- obviously I am not going to tell you of the dream, so just take my word for that, haha! I am quite an open person (as my friends will tell you!) and I do share my dreams sometimes, it just depends on the subject matter or how weird they were etc- this was a mix of the two quite weird and the subject matter I don't see as suitable for sharing. I do believe in things like that though, I read my horoscope in magazines for example and to an extent believe in the paranormal and fate, but then again there have been times when I have had my doubts and been quite sceptical about things I have read so I'm not exactly hardcore. I have had a tarot reading done online once, though only because it was free and it popped up on my screen as I was doing something else- had it not I doubt I'd have even thought about it to be honest. As Valentine's is approaching I also believe that everyone has a soulmate and that the love of your life is out there looking for you just as you are looking for them and one day your paths will cross (more than likely when you least expect it). I appreciate that there are lots of people who seriously don't buy into all this, but each to their own I think. This is only the first time I have actually interpreted one of my dreams, but I am fascinated I have to say. This is another way in which me and my best friend are similar as she is similarly interested in this subject, I'm sure we'll have quite a lot to talk about when I visit next week now- getting so excited! What's more, got my first birthday card today, though put it straight in my case to take with me and to open on the day! :) I realise that a post on dream interpretation is hardly bringing you up to date with regards to my week, but that's what is going on in my world at the moment!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Quick, dial 999...hang on... what's the number in France?
Saturday was probably the first time I have felt completely out of my depth since arriving in France and for one simple reason- it was the first time me and my friends had to deal with a medical emergency and had to ring for an ambulance. Simple as it may sound, it really wasn't! Out of around ten of us, none of us knew the actual French number to call an ambulance (or the fire brigade as it is here...which is a rather weird concept for me, that I will talk about in more detail after). I was so annoyed with myself as I walk past a poster with all the emergency numbers on at least three times a week at work and could I remember? No chance... Looking back I think I must have been nieve enough to think I'd never need to use them hence my lack of attention...first mistake! Luckily we knew the international emergency number, 112 (or should I say 2 of us did!) so we were able to get help although without that we would have been stuck! Fortunately it wasn't serious, but scary nonetheless! I really think I have learnt my lesson on that front and next time I will make sure I am well informed about things like that which are important! Needless to say, all the French emergency numbers are now well and truly stored in my mobile phone...and I doubt I was the only one to do it either!
I find it so strange though as I said before that you have to call the fire brigade to deal with a medical emergency in France, as in England the Fire, Ambulance and Police seem to have more designated roles (i.e. the Fire Brigade put fires out, cut roofs off cars after a road traffic accident etc, the ambulance/paramedics deal with medical emergencies and the Police deal with law-breakers and sudden deaths....in a nutshell anyway, I really don't mean to be demeaning to the emergency services who are all a credit to their profession and do incredible work!) On Saturday we had to think about who to call in that respect as our first thought, as at home, was to 'call an ambulance', which in England would be 999 then stating the service required (as at home there is only one emergency number, 999 which you ring regardless of whether you want police, fire or ambulance and then they direct you to whichever people you need to speak to). That said I don't remember ever having to dial 999 in England, may have had to at some point, I don't think I'd forget such an incident though having said that. Ah well, lesson learnt I think! I like my evenings to be eventful, but not like that!
I find it so strange though as I said before that you have to call the fire brigade to deal with a medical emergency in France, as in England the Fire, Ambulance and Police seem to have more designated roles (i.e. the Fire Brigade put fires out, cut roofs off cars after a road traffic accident etc, the ambulance/paramedics deal with medical emergencies and the Police deal with law-breakers and sudden deaths....in a nutshell anyway, I really don't mean to be demeaning to the emergency services who are all a credit to their profession and do incredible work!) On Saturday we had to think about who to call in that respect as our first thought, as at home, was to 'call an ambulance', which in England would be 999 then stating the service required (as at home there is only one emergency number, 999 which you ring regardless of whether you want police, fire or ambulance and then they direct you to whichever people you need to speak to). That said I don't remember ever having to dial 999 in England, may have had to at some point, I don't think I'd forget such an incident though having said that. Ah well, lesson learnt I think! I like my evenings to be eventful, but not like that!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
A Rather Dickensian Tale!
I going to write this blog last night to be a little more up to date, though fatigue and Top Gear DVDs got the better of me, so am going to cover two days in one to get back up to speed a little. Yesterday I soaked up a bit of culture at the theatre as I got asked to accompany some classes from Barthou who were going to see Oliver Twist and it turned out my friend who is an assistant at Lycée St.Jean Perse was doing exactly the same as me not that either of us knew beforehand, so was a nice surprise! On the whole i really enjoyed the performance although for me nothing can ever beat the original film musical...classic doesn't quite cover it! As I mentioned before I was also in a stage version of Oliver the musical when I was at Secondary School as well in the chorus, which in fairness was hardly a huge part, but at 13 I didn't really care, I still got a buzz from doing it! I think it was around that age that I actually developed inhibitions to be honest as before that I was pretty much fearless! I'm extroverted and out-going now (and have been since around the age of 16) though I still have some inhibitions as does everyone, think everyone has their own personal hang-ups as nobody is perfect as much as people may think they are.
Anyway, after the performance as by the time the show had finished the sun was well and truly out and pretty much blinded us all as were were coming out of the theatre. Upon adjusting to the light, me and Krystal went off together to head back although went via a cafe to buy some churros, which I have to say is pretty much becoming mine and her tradition as the last time we went out for a mooch round town together we did exactly the same thing! As I bought last time, she bought this time, so next time (as there will more than likely be a 'next time')it's back to my turn to buy. Churros in hand we set off walking home in the sun as we both live in the same direction, so it's always good for a chat and company! Churros are so nice though and I haven't seen anywhere in England that sells them! There may well be somewhere but I haven't yet found it unfortunately, so I intend on exploiting the possibilities during my time here! :)
Today was business as usual at work, had all my 4 classes and had the luxury of getting the bus instead of having to walk this week (I realise that makes me sound quite lazy, but walking to work at 7am is something I can do without). Found out at work that Blake the other English assistant was still having difficulty getting back to Pau as he went to Sweden to the Gotemburg Film Festival last weekend to see the premiere of one of his friend's films. His journey back was quite a lot longer than expected though as due to snowy weather all over England this week a lot of flights were grounded with airports coming to a halt...unfortunately this affected him getting back so instead of getting back on Tuesday, he has only just got back today! I think he's had his fair share of airports for a while! No doubt he had an amazing time there though, so maybe that'll make up for it in a way, who knows...
Can't believe how quickly time is passing here though, already a week away from the February half term, been thinking a lot recently about how sorry I am actually going to be when I have to leave...which makes me intend on making the most of every single day! :)
No plans for weekend as of yet, but I'm pretty sure there soon will be! :)
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Me, Myself and I
I know the title of this does sound quite arrogant and egotistical given that I will essentially be writing this post all about myself, but it was suggested to me and in theory it isn't an overly bad idea. I'm pretty sure I am not the best qualified to talk on the subject- my friends without doubt know me a lot better than I know myself, we literally have no secrets, but as my mates are elsewhere, mainly in England or dispersed all over France and the rest of continental Europe, you'll have to do with me...sorry.
The question now is what to say that I haven't already mentioned on the profile part of my blog...
Actually I think my friends are probably a decent place to start and I'm sure they'd all be flattered to know that they are getting a mention! I have already mentioned in a previous blog that I am going to visit my best friend in Grenoble very soon, so we have a starting point. Her name is Céallai (prounounced Kelly, as she is of Irish origin she uses the Gaelic spelling) and she is two years older than me, not that you'd think it to look at us nor the way we act when we are together- people have mistaken us for sisters many times. We both went to the same Secondary School (after Céa moved from a previous school in a different part of Manchester) and we met when I was 13 and she 15 during rehearsals for a production of Oliver that our school was putting on as we were both in the chorus. Her Dad used to be Head of Languages at school (for the first three years I was there) and had taught me French in my first year, Year 7, so that was an easy conversation starter and ice-breaker. The year after our forms were in classrooms oppsoite each other so we always had to wait on the same landing, so there was many a conversation to be had. As she is two years older than me, she left school when I was in third year, Year 9 and consequently moved to France, initially to Tournon-sur-Rhone in the Ardeche, it was only when she went to university that she moved to Grenoble where she still is now and lives with her natively French boyfriend. I haven't seen them since the last time I went to visit in summer 2006, so I can't wait to see them both again!
My two best male friends both have the same name but spell it differently, one Kris, the other Chris. Kris is in Paris this year working as an assistant like me at a Lycée professionel in Créteil and Chris is spending the year as an Erasmus student at university in Pamplona in Northern Spain. I met Kris 5 years ago when I started college as we were both in the same form and we both took French (as there were only three of us in our French class you get to know people really quickly!) and even though everybody out of my group of friends from college has gone to a different university we are all as close as ever and at the moment I speak to Kris almost daily. He is northern and Boltonian in every sense of the words, seriously if you think I am broad and Northern, it just doesn't compare! He is hilarious though with the same sort of sarcastuc wit and humour as me, he can make anything (within reason) funny, which is what you need sometimes. As I said before I have no secrets with my friends and as Kris and my other friends would vouch they have no secrets with me, which is the best way to be. They say you meet your friends for life at university but I think I found some of mine at college!
Other Chris I met at university, we both lived in the same university residence during our first year, but in different blocks. I got to know him mainly through mutual friends as he knew an Australian erasmus student that I did and the first time we met (typically!) was in our halls' bar where we had gone to watch the football- he is a die-hard Barcelona fan as he is half Spanish (his mother is from Barcelona, his father from London) although you really wouldn't think it to look at him as he has very fair skin and ginger hair! Not exactly your stereotypical Spaniard, but he is completely bilingual (English and Spanish). He lives in London, so we only really see each other at university in England , although we do speak on MSN/Skype/Phone a lot. At some point during my time on the continent I am going to go to Pamplona to visit him and hopefully to practice my Spanish which has somewhat suffered in favour of French this year, though hopefully with a bit of practice it will improve again. We are going to live together next year back in Leeds too hopefully so I'll have an excuse to be able to practice my Spanish after having had my French improve this year!
Not exactly mentioned much about myself up to now...mainly because as I say I am not exactly the best qualified...I like to think of myself as independent, confident and as much as I am stupid at times, intelligent (as Mum says, academically I am very intelligent when it comes to common sense I lack it!) I like to think that I have continued a family tradition in the fact that I am a musician as my great-grandma used to play the piano and my great-grandfather used to play the violin. My great-grandma was professionally qualified and played in theatres/cinemas to accompany silent films or otherwise in church or at home. Her piano is now at my cousin's house as even though I live in the house that was her's as my Mum and Dad bought it from her there wasn't the room, but at least it has stayed in the family. My great-grandfather used to have a Stradivarious violin, which believe me is the best manufacturer of string instruments ever and to buy one now would cost thousands. As a violinist/violist myself I would have killed to have at least seen it, but we believe it was given to distant relatives in Australia which is a shame in a way. Having said that I doubt I'd ever have dared to touch or play it even if we still had it as I'd be too scared of breaking it or damaging it in any way given the value of the instrument. The fact I play the flute too was my own decision- I started playing the recorder at primary school which I took to and really enjoyed, so when I started at Secondary School I swapped my recorder for a flute and had lessons through school just as I did with my violin until I started private tuition aged 14/15. My cousin, Dan who is a few years older than me is also a musician, although a lot more seriously than me as he studied music at Birmingham Conservatoire and has a degree. He has played the trumpet from being young and sees music as his career, both as a performer and a teacher.
At home I live in a typically English, red-brick, terraced house, which was built in 1902, a year after the death of Queen Victoria, Britain's longest serving monarch (having said that our current Queen isn't too far off changing that statistic!) and before it belonged to my great-grandma it was a vicarige. I find history really fascinating, I studied it at school up to GCSE level and in a way wish I had continued it at college, but I still take a very keen interest. Last year at university I took a module in French history from the Revolution of 1789 to 1914, which I really enjoyed. I did my essay on feminism, which nicely leads me on to my next point, I consider myself a feminist. I know a lot of people, both men and women hate the word and although I'm not going to go and handcuff myself to parliament or set churches alight as they did when the Suffragettes were campaigning for votes for women in the early 20th century, I do use the word quite openly to express my beliefs on certain things and I really don't see why it should strike the fear of God into people as much as it seems to!
Anyways, when I started I wasn't exactly sure how this post was going to go, but I am pretty sure I have gone off on enough tangents for one night! :)
Why can't I write essays as easy as this? Where is the justice? haha :P
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