Bastille Day

So surprisingly after a pretty rough morning Bastille Day finally became one of my happiest memories in a long time. 

After cancelling the pre-arranged picnic on the Champ de Mars (thinking the weather would be bad) the sun shone ALL day. It was very windy though so we had lunch at Ilana's (lovely pasta merci a Ilana et Kelvin) followed by the yummiest and cheapest (only 8 euros) 'grillee aux pommes' from the bakery in Belleville. Anyway, even with the sun shining we stuck with the decision of avoiding the Champ de Mars, hearing from most of our French friends that it would be horribly crowded and full of 'cons.' So finally we decided on a free ballet that is offered at the Opera Garnier every year..

We arrive an hour and a half early (thinking that would be MORE than enough time). Oh...how wrong we were. We found the queue on one side of the Opera house and slowly started to follow it round to find the end of the line...around ten minutes later we were still walking. At this point I just started to laugh, I couldn't actually believe how many people there were. The problem was huge tour buses had dropped groups off outside who had obviously just come for the free ballet (as they were all full of oldies on a retirement day out). The queue reached all around the Opera house, all four sides were lined with people, at least five people deep. We were at first happy to queue until we asked one of the workers if we would get in and she clearly explained that although we might get in to the building "vous allez voir rien" (basically you'll see nothing). So pop went that balloon. 

Alors...time for a re-group. We were kind of in my area with the Opera being so close to my work so I had a brainwave after remembering Ilana nor Rachel had been on Printemps terrace before. It was beautiful (comme toujours) and I was happy to be there with my good friends. 

The idea was then to go to Pont Neuf to see if we could get a good spot to watch the fireworks. However after walking to Concorde and deciding to explore a bit (the staging was still up after the Military Parade) we found ourselves at Pont de la Concorde. After walking down onto the quai Ilana and Kelvin discovered this great little spot with enough room for all of us to sit AND have pizza with a great view of the Tour Eiffel. 

After more than a few beers, 2 pizzas and around 3 hours of waiting the fireworks finally began. Although Isabelle said she thought the view from the Champ de Mars was better (because the fireworks are either side of the tower) I was just happy to have a great view, great friends and not to be pushed and shoved around by some moody Parisians. 

The fireworks were beautiful and after a very mixed year which has included falling in and out of love, more than a touch of heartbreak,  a new job, a new apartment, new and old friends arriving and leaving and much much more they helped to summarise my feelings for Paris. I found myself feeling that even now, after everything Paris still has a part of my heart. It's not all tarnished for me. 

I don't know if this is a sign of the end or a new beginning but all I know is  I'm still here and I'm still fighting, Some things are worth fighting for. 

Gay Pride

The month of June has been full of changes for me. After a rollercoaster of a year I am finally beginning to move forward with my life. I can already see a few of my friends rolling their eyes (with good reason). I know you all know I've said this many (many many) times but now, really, it's time to start a fresh. So...here's the update.

A few weeks ago I went to Gay Pride which was both a new and interesting experience for me. I was a little nervous because I've never even seen a gay pride before let alone dance in one! But really, I had a great time. Everyone was in costumes holding huge flags and wearing wigs on their heads. I think my favourite moment had to be Dave catching a balloon and screaming "BALLOOOOOOON" with delight before realising that it was, in fact, a blown up condom. Poor Dave and he couldn't wash his hands for ages either...

I have to add a little note for the boys there, I'm so glad I met these two utter crazy people. They've made me open up to new ideas (some ridiculously stupid) but they've also made me lighten up and not take life so seriously, for which I will be eternally grateful. "I'm going to spike my gavina!" and "Don't you think the moon is just so....AWESOME." Coolest guys ever.

We also managed to find a semi secret location by the Seine where you can sit without being surrounded by du monde and a great place on the quai at Bastille. It pays to have friends who grew up in Paris.

The Cost of Living

Now, I'm not normally one to complain about France or the way the French do things. Generally speaking I agree with how the system works over here and as a French friend once said to me (rather bluntly as they always do) "If you don't like it you can always go home." France can be a wonderful place to live but sometimes it just tests your patience.


There are a few things that have caused me some grief this month and I've decided to blog about them so my friends back home...and over the world actually, can see what it's like living in France.


1. This month I unfortunately became sick, I had what I think was the flu but it really knocked me sideways. I had a horrible fever, cold and was coughing like someone who'd smoked for 40 years. I had to leave work early on Friday and couldn't work  on the Saturday either so, of course, I had to go to the doctor. That's how it works in France by the way. If you are sick you have to go to the doctor's and get an 'arret du travail' to prove and to justify that you needed the day off. It makes sense, people have a day off for a hangover in the UK it's so easy just to call in sick. In France you have to really BE sick to have the day off, it makes you think about how sick you really are. Unfortunately I was sick on a Saturday and because I needed to get my arret du travail as soon as possible I had to find a clinic open on a Saturday. Finding an appointment was difficult as I originally wanted to go to my normal doctor in Alesia but they only worked until midday, the receptionist rudely reminding me "Well it IS a Saturday, we don't work all day." Oh of course EXCUSEZ-MOI. 


Anyway finally I found one at 2pm on the Saturday afternoon. I was reluctant to leave my apartment but keen to see a doctor as I really didn't feel well. All seemed fine, the doctor was on time and my appointment lasted only around 10 minutes. She checked my back and chest with a stethoscope, making sure my breathing was okay, she took my blood pressure, my temperature and noted down my symptoms. Nice and easy (all in French by the way, mini proud moment there for me). I remember when I was terrified to go to the doctor because I didn't know the medical words...it's not easy now but it's definitely easier. 


So everything was fine, she was a very kind doctor and even offered to prescribe me my inhalers as well as the medicine for the flu. I was just thinking to myself 'oh what a lovely doctor, maybe I will come here instead in the future it's much closer than Alesia and easier to find' blah blah blah. Unfortunately I got a very nasty shock when she told me the price of my consultation....wait for it.....SEVENTY EUROS, yes that's right 70 EUROS. That's around 7 euros a minute. I don't know why I didn't say anything then and there. Last time I went to the doctor it cost me 26 euros and the consultation was much longer. I think I was just in a state of shock, I thought maybe I'd misheard her but when she gave me the receipt I knew I hadn't been mistaken. I don't know why she charged me that much, she knew I spoke French so it's not as if she thought she could charge me whatever she wanted and I'd be none the wiser...Maybe because it was a Saturday, maybe because she was a replacement doctor, maybe it was because of the area (4th arr) I really don't know. I've gone over and over the possible reasons in my head and I still can't justify it. I almost called them later in the day to ask why I was charged such a ridiculous price but at the end of the day, I got ripped off, I paid it and there's not much I can do except learn from the experience and never make the mistake again. 


Funnily enough my colleague M was sick the same week, she doesn't speak French so I offered to go to the doctor with her and help her get her arret du travail. A colleague of ours recommended a doctor's really close to St Lazare station, which I later found to be open on Saturday's and you pay up front before you see the doctor so if you don't agree with the price you don't have to pay. Monique paid 23 euros and the doctor even spoke English. So...I got screwed over but I learnt a huge lesson from it and I will be going to the medical centre close to St Lazare if I ever have another illness. I finally understand why all my French friends don't go to the doctor, you can buy everything you need in the pharamacy (including a thermometer to use at home, I bought one) AND you don't pay for advice. The doctor's is now, I understand, a real last resort.


The other positive is that thanks to my Mutuelle (healthcare) I will EVENTUALLY get reimbursed some, if not all of the amount. It just means I am totally broke now until pay day.....................


2. Wow this is turning out to be quite a long blog maybe I was more frustrated at the French lifestyle than I realised. The second thing that happened this month actually wasn't something that affected me directly but that affected a good friend of mine. D has just moved into his new apartment and he needs all the basics; sheets, duvet, pillows, curtains etc...In England you could probably go to Primark and pick up all of this and more for under 100 euros. In Paris I couldn't even find a duvet for less than 85 euros....it's just crazy. Other things are relatively cheap but the things you HAVE to have are stupidly expensive. I was so lucky parents bought a lot of stuff for me from the UK, even good shampoo I haven't found for cheaper than 6 euros. Finally I donated my old duvet to D and we found some decent covers on boncoin.fr. I think in future I will look for everything second hand first before I even think about buying it new! 


3. I lost my temper with a saleswoman in Galeries Lafayette this week. I think after the doctor and everything costing so much in general I just lost my patience. As M and I were walking through Galeries Lafayette during our lunch break a saleswoman tried to offer us a perfume tester (just one of those little cards with perfume sprayed on). I ignored her because I already knew I didn't like the perfume to which she responded "WAIT" (in English). I am telling you now I just threw my toys out the pram. I explained how I would NOT wait, called her rude and stomped off. I just couldn't believe it. Okay, yes in France the language is more direct and yes you can say 'attends (wait) to each other like you do in English but only when you KNOW the person. It's very familiar language and like "tiens" (hold this) it is not really correct. Also for someone you do not know it's incredibly rude. I think I just got fed up with being spoken to rudely, no wonder French people go to England and comment on how polite everyone is........jeez. 


Anyway rant over, bring on July when I can head to Quimper with Ma and Pa and have a break from this madness. 

A breath of fresh air

This past weekend I found myself escaping to the countryside. It was, officially 'last minute.' I'd been craving to get out of Paris for a while (I was in the UK twice in May) but the opportunity hadn't really presented itself since then. Thanks to my colleague Paul I have been introduced to quite a lot of new people which has really made a difference to my knowledge of Paris (and beyond!) A lot of Paul's friends grew up here, or went to college here so they know so much more than I do about Paris. One of his friends, a lovely girl called Shona, has a holiday house in Samois-sur-Seine, just 40 minutes from Paris. A group of people were all heading there for the weekend and although I had been invited I had to work. Finally I decided (if it was okay with Shona) that I would work on Saturday and arrive afterwards. I needed a break from Paris and this was the perfect opportunity, plus I got to see Shona and talk to her more (before this weekend we had only met once properly).

Anyway I arrive around half past four and everything was running smoothly until.......I waited for an hour for a bus that never arrived. The boys had assured me the buses were running but after a long time we realised that most buses were running but not those to Samois sur Seine. So, finally I decided to try and take a taxi. At this point there were no taxis, I had already missed the only one I had seen at the train station and there didn't seem to be any in the taxi rank nor on the road. I was, apparently, stuck. Now, I love walking so again this did not seem to cause a problem so I called Dave and declared I was going to walk because I was pretty fed up with the bus and taxi situation. It turned out that it was too far to walk so very kindly Paul called a taxi to come and pick me up. I finally got to the house about an hour and a half after I arrived at the station and the first thing I did was open a beer. Bit of a palava but everything was alright in the end and it was definitely worth the wait.

I arrived finally in a tiny village that was full of cute little houses, brasseries, not a single cash point, one tiny boulangerie (bakery) and one tiny corner shop. And finally...I could inhale deeply without coughing, such a relief from the polluted city air! Saturday evening was spent drinking, eating and playing drinking games which always ended in laughter. We had to first describe someone without saying who they were, then we could only give one word to describe the person and finally we had to mime. As the game got more and more difficult and we drank more and more beer some people came out with some ridiculous mimes particularly for Charles de Gaulle. We had a walk down to the river where some of the guys played the guitar and we all wrapped up in blankets looking at the stars.

Sunday was spent relaxing, eating and drinking (again) and after lunch Dave, Paul and I took a walk down to the riverside to take some photographs (as the night before had been too dark and too alcohol based...ha). The riverside was beautiful and it was so nice to see genuine cobbled streets and old buildings. Samois sur Seine is also where Jazz artist Django Reinhardt retired and each year they have an annual Jazz festival in his honour. It was so great just to explore somewhere so green and I was so surprised that there were such nice little villages so close to the centre of Paris, most people don't know they even exist!

Thank you to everyone (especially Shona for allowing me to join you) for this lovely weekend a la campagne! 

The House-party that dreams are made of

In my previous blog I didn't mention the girl's frankly epic house-party. I think it deserves a blog of it's own. We have an expression in English which we call - banter - which according to urban dictionary has the following definition:

Supple term used to describe activities or chat that is playful, intelligent and original. Banter is something you either possess or lack, there is no middle ground. It is also something inherently English, stemming as it does from traditional tomfoolery of British yesteryear.

"You are so drunk"
"Maybe but you are ugly and I will be sober in the morning"
"Good banter"


Basically, the house-party was full to the brim with banter. We actually decided on the Sunday, with pretty hefty hangovers and lack of sleep, to write down all of the 'quotes' so that we would never forget the night.

So, as promised, here they are...

Rhys - "TOML"
Luke - "TOML?"
Rhys - "Time of my life"
Luke - erupts in laughter

Soph - "Can I come out of the corner please??? I'm in the bread bin!"

Charlotte - "Do you have any coke?"
Megan - "Diet or normal?"

Soph to anon - "We just can't date, we're different sizes."

Mike at 4am - "I'm going to ring Sefty NOW."

Will to ... - "Well...you were smashed last night. You weren't just drunk you were plain inappropriate. I felt physically and emotionally abused. Go home and pounce on your husband. He might even like it and you might be surprised by his reaction."

Will to ... - "It's not going to happen. We're not going to have sex tonight just STOP!" Music goes completely silent............."Oh well that was bad timing."


Numerous people - "WOW"


Red trousers girl - "This is like Made in Chelsea."
Danielle - "What the hell does that mean?"

Soph - "Do you think violin players are good at hand jobs because they have two really strong hands?"

Discussing a very beautiful man in a pub

"I don't think it's his girlfriend with him"
"Yea but she's holding his jacket..."
"Yea but he's on crutches they could just be friends."
"He knows we're all looking at him you know"
"To be honest I'd hold a bomb for him if he asked me too!"

Me - "Megan I'm going to KFC with Sam okay?"
Megan "Okay babe see you soon"
2 minutes later 
"Has anyone seen Chloe and Sam they have disappeared??? Can you help me look for them?"
We return later
"Megan's been looking for you for 20 minutes"
"What? Why?? I told her where I was going!"
haha drunk much? 


Megan - "I just saw Mike's poo face!!!!"

If you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit!"

Spencer from Towie - Until the book's closed it's still open.


Massively funny moments had to be 


1) Megan refusing to believe Mike was having a poo and walking in on him on the toilet
2) Ben taking a midnight stroll and ending up lost and confused in someone's garden down the road
3) The over-use of the word WOW
4) Henry's legendary dancing
5) Ross being drunk and in bed within 90 minutes of arriving at the party
6) Josh falling over whilst dancing in the lounge (a real, genuine, banana slip fall) causing everyone to erupt into giggles for at least half an hour
7) A certain party guest's failed attempt to pull.......multiple people

I promised the girls I'd write a blog about the party, so here it is and I hope you will remember it for as long as I will :-)

A tourist in my own capital

This past weekend (May 5th) I finally I found some time (and money) to go to London to see the girls. Honestly London surpassed all my expectations. I've been known, in the past, to grumble and moan about London without really knowing much about it...I had a strange preconception of London which turned out to be totally wrong. Firstly, I didn't realise how much I missed being able to speak my mother tongue, without ever having a problem expressing what I wanted to buy, order or find, it was so refreshing to be 100% relaxed and at ease. Secondly people are just so genuinely friendly, yes in France they say hello and have a nice day when they serve you but around 70% of the time I get the feeling it's just out of habit (and not because they actually want to say it). You don't get hassled in shops (even the touristy ones) and a smile costs nothing. In the shop where I bought my London keyring one man even asked politely if he could come back to Paris with me and assured me he was very rich.......I of course, (reluctantly) said no.

London itself is a beautiful city...and I finally had time to visit a few things. On bank holiday Monday we went to the London Dungeons which was such a laugh and was nice for all of us as most of the girls had never been either. We waited for the Dungeons for close to 40 minutes in the pouring rain, sheltering under umbrellas and discussing the likelihood of any of us producing ginger children in the future (don't ask). Inside we laughed and screamed (mainly Soph) as we learnt about the history of London. I also had time to see Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace (the Queen was at home!), St James Park, the Houses of Parliament, The London Eye, The Battleship on the Thames, Tower Bridge and Big Ben. I was literally a tourist in my own capital. I was shocked by how much I loved London (having always said Paris was much more beautiful) and found myself not wanting to leave.

Sometimes, like any city, it's not the cleanest place (I noticed a lot of the buildings were very grey - I imagine from the pollution) but I did notice that ARIEL, a washing powder company in the UK are heading a campaign to clean up the city. Paris was pretty disgusting before the new 'green' bins were placed everywhere around the city...and at least in London you aren't constantly dodging dog poo. I really had no complaints about London and although it rained whilst we queued for the dungeons, afterwards it was just beautiful, I even wore my sunglasses!

The Eurostar: I even made a new friend on the Eurostar. Being a Eurostar virgin I had no clue what I was doing but everything ran pretty smoothly, I even managed to book myself into Premier class and enjoyed a free meal and plenty of free wine on the way there. 'Big Dave' (the guy I met) explained how the Eurostar mainly works and how I could get cheaper tickets and better deals in the future. It sounds like a weird story but actually it was really cool to meet someone new and we chatted so easily that the 2 and a half hours flew by.

I think my favourite part of the trip had to be seeing the girls. We laughed so much, to the point that my stomach hurt everyday. It was so refreshing to be with old friends, friends that know me inside out  and share all my stories, year after year. I think my biggest realisation was how much I appreciate my friends and how much they can make me laugh again and again and again. Thanks for the best weekend girls!

Beaucoup d’écrire

Like all things in life, writing is something that is sometimes easy and sometimes hard. These last few weeks I've had a bit of writer's block and have found myself unable to blog even when I've tried. With me, I think my motivation for writing depends on my how i'm feeling emotionally. I first noticed this when I went through a break up last year and didn't write for nearly three months (the longest I've ever not written for I think). It's a bizarre thing but I think it's because I like to write when I feel like expressing myself. It's in our nature to put on a brave face when going through hard times, which I can successfully do; but when I avoid my writing it's because it's harder to hide your real feelings when it comes to pen and paper (or I should say fingers and keyboard). So...finally, with a new age (23...at last), a new attitude and a new outlook it's time for my writing to make a come back. Enjoy ~ Chloe

19.04.2012

My birthday this year was honestly, wonderful. I didn't do a lot and I didn't drink perhaps as much as I would have liked but it had been a mixed few weeks for me and my main aim was to spend some quality time with my closest friends. My colleagues gave me a great card and two gorgeous bracelets, one set of pearl bracelets and one small silver four leafed clover bracelet (which I have not yet taken off since that day). They all signed a card for me and we had 'Gateau Anglaise' (Fruit cake) and a cup of tea. I'd already received my gifts from my parents, sister and family who visited a week before...which included Dr Dre Beats headphones, new clothes, earrings, a velib pass, a Ted baker make up case and much more. I am a truly lucky girl! After work I spent the late afternoon with my friend Elina who bought me a very funny little book which I absolutely adore, it makes me laugh whenever I read it. American au pair bought me a gorgeous pair of turquoise earrings and necklace to match (as it's my favourite colour) and Fin made me a photograph of a rowing boat with my name on, something he saw in Ireland...it's truly gorgeous I will have to post a photo later - I'm still trying to decide where to hang it in my apartment. We then all went for dinner at Vins & Terroirs, one of my most recent discoveries but by far one of my favourite restaurants. The food is great and such good value. I had snails followed by honey duck breast with sautee potatoes....oh and a chocolate fondant with 'creme anglaise' to finish (with happy birthday ringing in my ears...thanks everyone...!) We finished the evening with a few drinks...and a truly happy birthday girl.

20.04.12

My day off was spent with the original American au pair and to this day my closest friend here in Paris. She told me about a photo exposition near the Louvre and I decided for once to do something cultural rather than spending the day lazing about in my apartment, however desirable that sounded. So I dragged myself out of bed and off to Paris I went in search of 'Jeu de Pomme.' American au pair finally corrected me when I couldn't find me on google that the correct spelling was 'Jeu de Paume' which apparently means 'tennis court' and nothing to do with apples at all. The exposition was from a woman called Berenice Abbott (1898-1991) and focused on her photographs of New York and the different States of America. I'm not one to be interested in art if i'm honest....which is blasphemous to say when you have the unbelievable Louvre Museum just five minutes from my work but paintings just don't speak to me. Sometimes yes...especially with Claude Monet but I just prefer photographs and particularly statues (especially anything done by Rodin). However, this expostion was just amazing and Berenice Abbott seemed like a truly inspiring woman. When she was taking photos in the 20s it was really difficult for her to find sponsorship or any form of financial support because, frankly, she was a woman and women (even with the vote) still weren't considered equal to men, particularly in the working world. But...in her words, she was not 'a nice girl', she fought and fought for her exposition and finally was granted permission to document the ever changing city of New York. My favourite picture had to be the Flatiron Building on Broadway in 1938 but there were at least 20 others I could mention as she also took pictures of people, including James Joyce. If you want to know more about her check out her official site http://www.commercegraphics.com/ba.html and if you would like to go to the exposition (which I would highly recommend) it finishes tomorrow and the details can be found here http://www.jeudepaume.org/index.php?idArt=1499&lieu=1&page=article

27.04.12

Last night was probably the most fun I've had in a long time. My friend Dave and I decided to have a few beers after work, first we checked out a bar called O'neil which is a micro-brewery (finally decent beer in Paris) and which Dave had been to before but wanted to re-visit. I'd heard of it but never actually gone inside but finally  went and honestly loved it. The atmosphere is really American even though the staff are all French, everyone was really chatty and polite and we sat at the bar drinking and eating french fries. The food looked great, especially a burger that a man was eating next to us that both Dave and I were drooling over. Next time....That's one thing I love about Paris, even after nearly two years here you can find a small road full of the quirkiest, most interesting little bars. There was even a pub called 'The Bedford Arms'...I felt like I had accidentally walked through some kind of transportation device and found myself smack in the middle of England...Later on I finally activated my velib card and managed to convince Dave to ride on it with me. This was the stupidest but funniest idea I've ever had. We were wobbling all over the place as Dave had already had a few more beers than me and I nearly fell off because of my lack of balance multiple times. However we did go zooming down some hills around St Germain Des Pres and discovered again some more ways to enjoy Paris. We finally finished at Le Cafe Petit Pont just opposite the Seine and Notre Dame with cheese, beer and wine...you have to love Paris, no place like it.

So quoi neuf?!? What's new basically...

Well, next week after finally making a decision I AM GOING TO LONDON. I realised that there had been so many reasons I wasn't making a decision...money, situations, work etc.. and I finally just woke up and bought my tickets. I organised a change in my schedule with my colleague, THANK YOU PAUL I am going to bring  you back tonnes of herbal tea from London and can now go to London from Friday night to Tuesday evening. I am so so excited to see the girls, all my old friends at the party on Saturday and to finally see a bit of London too as I have some time to at least do one or two touristy things! And it will be my first time on the Eurostar so I will definitely have something to blog about next week...I might even have to take my notebook so I don't forget anything!

Just remember bloggers, "Today is going to be a good day."

Ciao

Le dîner tue la moitié de Paris et le souper tue l'autre

My dedication to my blog has been recently...........poor. Not for lack of want I assure you, just lack of time! Everytime I've sat behind my computer determined to reel off a blog I've always had something else to do, or start, or finish that has been unfortunately more important. Finally it's my jour de repo (day off) and I have some time to write about what's been going on recently in la ville lumière.

Back in March I went to the Six Nations final game at the Stade de France. France were set to play England and I was, honestly, a bit nervous. My friend J had been continuously reminding me how well France were playing and I was worried for England because our previous performances hadn't been particularly strong. However being the true Brit I am I was patriotic and refused to believe England would go down without a fight. And well...........they certainly did not. The atmosphere was amazing, even surrounded by mainly French people I found myself screaming and cheering when England started scoring. I'm normally pretty shy when it comes to things like that (ask my mum - I'm always asking her not to shout when she's cheering for Tom, Dick or Harry) but this time it was different. I felt weirdly free...probably because I knew only the two guys sitting next to me in the whole stadium. The end of the match was more nerve racking with France nearly taking over our lead, however a failed drop kick from France (which really should have been left as pushing for a try...) meant that England kept their lead of 24-22. J and C were, of course, disappointed (especially as it was C's birthday the next day) but we all went back to the Mazet for a few evening drinks and birthday shots. All in all an excellent experience.
*England also went on to beat Ireland the following weekend in an unbelievably strong game. I later received a text from my Irish boss saying 'You're fired.'

What else...work is still good, my boss recently trained me in TOEIC and in a few weeks I'm going to do a teen week so lots of new, fun experiences. The TOEIC hasn't been easy - mainly because of the computer but it's such a good experience to learn the test structure and to know you can give students good advice for their upcoming TOEIC exam....because seriously it's a difficult exam, more focused on your endurance and concentration than anything else.

We had crazy hot spells in Paris (literally I was sunbathing on lunch breaks in the Jardin des Tuileries) which was lovely........but has now abruptly ended with unfortunately the weather for the Easter weekend being totally crap. But my parents and sister are on their way and I couldn't be more happy to see them. First of all they are bringing me a working hoover (no one realises how important this is) which for someone with asthma who currently has a room full of dust........ is like Christmas come early. I actually can't wait to hoover.....sad I know. Secondly they are bringing me a new kettle, the one I have is beyond stupid. It keeps boiling until you unplug it (very safe these Frenchies, like the person who thought putting PLUGS in the bathroom was a good idea, dear me). So I can't wait to have a real, working kettle......oh and one that can make more than 2 cups of tea at a time. Lastly they are here for my birthday (not my actual birthday) but we are celebrating this weekend. So....we are off to La Pulperia tomorrow night - a restaurant run by an Argentinian chef which literally has the best food I have ever tasted. I discovered this restaurant thanks to Romain and will be eternally grateful to him for this discovery. I can't wait for the squid starter tomorrow it's just divine....

Pollution has been a hot topic at work and at home for me at the moment. All of us have begun to notice that the pollution is getting worse. Maybe it's the hot-cold weather, whatever it is something in the air has changed. My asthma is verging on terrible when I used to go some days without it I now can't. My colleague at work's asthma seems to be coming back after years without it, my students children all have rashes at the moment that are unexplained and apparently due to the 'weather' and Paris has warning signs around the city reminding people that pollution is rife. I hope things won't continue like this and at the moment it is just the weather...because I won't be enjoying Paris if I can't breathe! Not long until 5 days back in Devon and I can breathe clean air...cannot wait.

Apart from the pollution Paris is treating me well, I have made many new friends recently which I am really happy about as most of my old friends (the au pair gang) will be soon departing and I am happy to know I won't spend the summer alone. These new friends also know Paris better than I do so are always telling me where I should go and what I should see which is great. I'm still reading Paris Revealed by Stephen Clarke (the same guy who wrote A Year in the Merde) and honestly it's one of the most interesting books I've ever read. It's really informative but you never feel bored reading the historical infomation because Clarke makes it light and easy to read, including the information that's most intriguing. Such as...did you know that there was a cathedral twice as beautiful as Notre Dame in its place before? Napoleon knocked it down for the new 'gothic' church that everyone now knows and loves. If you live here and you want to really know the city....buy this book!

Read this book!

As for me, I'm off to tidy my apartment before the parentals arrive tomorrow and will head into Paris later for a bit of Jardin des Plantes, cinema-going and maybe even some chalk-drawing (will explain that one next time).

A bientôt bloggers

The highlights of teaching English abroad

When you are an English teacher, especially in France, there are often highlights to your lessons which are primarily caused by pronunciation errors. Before I begin recounting my stories I must tell you that in no way do I want to make fun of any of my students, god knows I make terrible mistakes with my own French pronunciation causing a waiter to think I was saying "Thank you have a nice arse" instead of "Merci beaucoup." We all make mistakes. These are just some of the comments that have put a smile on my face and continue to help us, as teachers, appreciate the difficulty of English pronunciation. 

1. In a conversation class last week about animals I showed a picture not too different to this one (okay maybe it wasn't so child-like but you get the idea). I asked the students if they knew what this animal was and one, very enthusiastic student called out 

"I know! It's an octopussy!!" 

Now I tried not to laugh I really did but the fact that none of the other students understood the reference did not help my state of mind. So I managed to compose myself and say "Well....almost but actually the word is Octopus." None the wiser the students all nodded happily and noted the word down in their books. 

This was not the only highlight of my week. The next came during a Waystage encounter. When we begin a lesson we normally ask if the students have any questions or queries, especially regarding vocabulary or grammar (normally the most difficult). So as normal I asked the class if they had any vocabulary to ask me or any other questions. This conversation thus followed....

Student: Yes I have a word I didn't understand

Me: Okay, which word didn't you understand

Student: Dickhead

Me: Err....Are you sure it was definitely in your workbook? That particular word?

Student: (now a little agitated) Yes! It's in the book...I saw it, the word dickhead

Me: Okay so...I'm not sure why that was in your book it's not something we would normally teach to you in the context of your book and it would be quite difficult to explain (at this point I was trying to buy as much time as possible)

Another student: (Begins to explain in French and I finally understand what the student was trying to say -  thank goodness I understand French) Alors...c'est comme une dizaine en français.

Teacher: Oh! You mean a DECADE. 

Student: (In a very strong French accent) Yes zat eez what I said deekhead

Me: Okay in this case you must be careful with your pronunciation.................

I almost tried to explain that "I've been working for a decade"is very different to"I've been working for a dickhead"  but I realised that it would not help the situation as the students definitely weren't ready for 'gros mots' (swear words) in English yet. However it did provide for serious giggles for the other teachers and I. 

My last one came in a Threshold conversation class. Now....Threshold at Wall Street is one of the highest levels you can be so the students are fully aware of how to make English jokes and particularly they know how to embarrass me to the fullest (in a good way....i'll go on to explain). Actually I feel like I'm almost friends with a lot of my Threshold students, we see each other outside Wall Street when possible and they are always so warm and open you don't feel stuck in a teacher-student relationship. If you're having a bad day you just say, if you're fed up you just say, if you're really happy about something you share it and most importantly we're always making each other laugh. 

Alors...last week I had a conversation class with what we call the 'dream team' at Wall Street. These are our highest and most constructive students. The subject was dreams so naturally my first question was what kind of dreams can you have? One student replied immediately with the word "EROTIC." Being the typical English prude that I am I tried desperately to continue without laughing and steer the students away from the topic of erotic dreams. Everyone laughed and I blushed as always. 

A little while later I asked the students if they talk in their sleep (I talk about oranges - not kidding and my sister talks about everything and anything so it's something I'm very aware of in my family). A few people had general answers such as "my children talk about school, they think they are talking to their friends" etc. One student explained that he sleeps alone so he doesn't know if he talks in his sleep. I asked if they had never stayed with a friend or someone else who might have noticed. A student that we will call C replied very nonchalantly with "Chloe....if there is someone else sleeping in my bed I am definitely not going to be sleeping." Everyone laughed and we all stayed in good, happy spirits for the rest of the evening. I was unable to not laugh and finally realised that I'd have to join in. As we say in English "if you can't beat them, join them." 

The Request

For the first time ever in my blog history I've actually been requested to write an entry. Apparently more of you read my random ramblings than I actually realised...so this one is for you.

As you probably know from my self-pitying facebook statuses I have been very sick the last few weeks. I am almost out of the red zone (I hope) but now have to face continuous headaches for the last three days non-stop which is just LOVELY. So let's keep our fingers crossed that I'm feeling better before my very, very busy weekend.

Last weekend was a bit of a failure...after wrapping up like an Eskimo with 5 t-shirts, tights, trousers, 2 pairs of socks, 2 pairs of gloves, one jumper, one hoody, one huge coat, a hat and ear muffs I felt just about prepared to face the bitter -5 degree weather outside. I'm not a crazy person going out in the condition I was in but...it was important. The rugby match between France and Ireland was planned for the 11th of February at 21h at the Stade de France. Apparently there had already been rumours that it was going to be cancelled due to the cold weather but I hadn't heard any and to be honest I'm sure the rugby teams (due to the sheer size of them) could manage a bit of ice. Anyway long story short the game was called off, people at home actually knew before us (the 80,000 fans standing freezing in the stadium) so I received some texts before it was actually confirmed. I can understand completely why they made the decision as some parts of the pitch were supposedly entirely frozen but I think the decision could have been made sooner. People had already requested that the match be moved to 3pm, a request that was promptly denied. I think deep down people knew it was too cold. I just feel sorry for all the people who flew over. I met an Irish couple in the Mazet on Sunday who had spent 800 euros on their flights, 800 euros on the hotel and god knows how much else on the simple eating out costs in Paris. It was such a shame too because the atmosphere was so fantastic on the trains, going up to the stadium and inside. It was freezing yes, but the fans were as loyal and supportive as ever and the French and Irish were even having a bit of banter (first time I ever saw that!!) If you want to read more about the rugby here's a good article http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-union/union-news/french-farce-as-six-nations-match-cancelled-at-last-minute-20120212-1sz38.html

I did manage to take a few quick pictures as the Irish team did a small warm up on the pitch (I guess just to partly satisfy all the people who came to see them). The match is now rescheduled for Sunday the 5th of March so I hope it will be warmer then!

So...disappointed by the match we left and headed to find a bar. I was so surprised when we found a little bar just off Rue Laplace. This might mean nothing to you but this is where I spent most of my time last year - between the Pomme d'Eve and the Violin Dingue in the fifth. I couldn't believe just a few steps away was this hidden gem...http://www.lepianovache.com/ The Piano Vache (literally the Piano Cow) is a small, quirky, cool bar just tucked away from the tourists. As well as several different size cow statues it is filled with photos and posters and writing is all over the walls - traces of people who have previously frequented the bar. The TV is always on, showing bizarre 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s rock stars (including some people cutting up a pig's head). Yes it's a bit strange but that's the bar, something different in a Parisian world where things start to merge into one sometimes. I love Paris but bars sometimes seem to be one of two things - either typically French like a brasserie or cocktail type bar or they are trying to be English, American, Australian or Irish. There's nothing wrong with this but sometimes it's nice to find a bar that's totally different. I felt like I could have been in London, Berlin or Paris....and I loved it. I hope to drag the girls there soon :-)

Lastly, two weeks ago I went to see the Arctic Monkeys with Ilana (thanks to some free tickets from a friend who couldn't make it). They were amazing live and the atmosphere at Le Zenith was really great...even the support act Miles Keen was excellent so all in all we had a great time. I felt 17 again and some of the songs brought back so many forgotten but happy memories.

So...I think that's all for now. It's my day off today so i'll be heading to the supermarket, possibly the doctors and sorting out my mess of an apartment. Thrilling eh?!

Peace

Prix d'Amerique

Prix d'Amerique Marrionaud 2012 - Last weekend I found myself in possession of two free tickets to the Prix d'Amerique (thanks to a very kind student who circulates in the horse-racing world). So Sunday came around and Sarah and I set off to Bois de Vincennes to watch the race. The race is actually a 'trot' where the horses have the rider sat behind them, attached to a small, what I can only describe as a carriage behind....in this case a picture speaks a thousand words.

A Jockey

It is difficult to describe without seeing it as it is something truly unique. The race itself is very famous in France and pits the 18 top high-flyers against each other in a 2,700 metre race. The race was originally created in 1920 to honour the United States entry into the first World War and is now attended by over 40,000 spectators (me being one of them), every year. It's an elite race with a prize of 1 million euros.

The race itself was amazing and a real joy to watch. People were handing out free flags, hats and batons all around the racecourse so we really got into the spirit of things. There were cheerleaders, a marching band and even some Hell's Angels (whose bikes were on display in a marquee next to the course). The skill of the jockeys was just amazing and apparently they have to train for up to 2,500 hours a year to perfect their racing skills. It was just such a unique experience and the first time I had ever managed to go to a real race so I was really pleased. It was really well organised with a free navette (shuttle bus) from the station to the course which helped because the only downside of the day was that it was freezing!! By the end of the day I think I lost all feeling in my hands and feet. 

However it was really worth it and I can't wait for next year! 

Table for one please.

Now, the title of my blog might seem a little strange (what's new), but it has reasoning. France was a big move for me, something I've always wanted but not something I honestly thought I'd accomplish by the ripe old age of just 22. Let's be honest, I nearly fell flat on my face. I'm not going to lie to you. I almost had several melt downs, even once declaring that I hated France and wanted to shut up shop and go home. Don't misunderstand. I love my job, I love my friends and I love Paris but France has this wonderful way of making it almost impossible for you to do ANYTHING without paperwork. In a way it's a good system, people walk in and out of the UK and just pick up free health care as easily as they'd pick up a take away from your local Indian restaurant on the corner. In France, this is impossible. Everything requires paperwork and there is often a strange logic behind acquiring the paperwork which means you can't get your hands on that paperwork without doing something ridiculous. Anyway...this isn't supposed to be a rant about France because let's face it, I'm here and it's my home now and I have to respect their laws which is fine...most of the time. The important thing is I finally feel like I'm standing on my own two feet, (for honestly, the first time in my entire life). I'm a fairly dependent person and it wasn't the best quality I found out I possess. So to finally achieve things 'toute seule' has made me feel weirdly liberated. My internet finally works (as you can see) AND I managed to negotiate a 63 euro refund. My health card is taking it's time (of course paper work is involved) but it's coming together. My bank is done,  my apartment is functioning fine (meaning I haven't broken anything yet). Maybe I chipped a plate but who's counting that eh? I also have about a million things to look forward to in this next month so in general things are really great and my confidence in myself, life in general and the French language are all growing at a healthy, steady rate. Alors, on that subject c'est tout.

Anyway...my blog was actually supposed to be about idioms. Yes I'm an English teacher but no I'm not going to give you a lesson on idioms, I'm not that much of a closet geek don't fret. So...last week I did a class on idioms as part of my tea time, and really, it was such a laugh. Trying to explain some of the idioms just made me realise how complicated languages can really be. Some were (thankfully), exactly the same such as 'don't add fuel to the fire.' Whereas others varied just with one word...apparently in English when you say 'a leopard doesn't change its spots' the French say that a 'cheetah' doesn't. Where we say 'I could eat a horse' the French say that they have 'the appetite of a wolf' or that they could eat a 'vache' (a cow) which is funny because we don't actually eat horse meat and the French do. I started to realise that although these idioms have some logic and are really fun and interesting to learn they make a language so difficult. It made me think about all the idioms we use on a daily basis. These are just a few situations where I have used or heard idioms:

- When I was a child I would always pester my grandfather about where he was going if he tried to leave the house. He would always say "I'm going to see a man about a dog." Now...he lived on a farm (still does actually) where they often took in dogs from the shelter so this seemed like a normal response. It was only recently that I realised that a) he never did come back with a new dog and b) he was obviously using it because as all children are I was always curious and frankly a bit nosey. This response meant he didn't really have to tell me what he was doing or where he was going at all. An adult's right I suppose. Took me almost 15 years to realise this. Thank you gramps for always keeping me in line :-)

- "You can't have your cake and eat it too." Something that I've said to many girl-friends and that many of my friends have said to me and it's ALWAYS about men. It's almost used as a comfort, just to remind each other that you can't be greedy in life so whoever this man is who is trying to be greedy you should get rid of him asap.

- "A leopard doesn't change it's spots." My mother said this to me only last week, sometimes you need to remind each other that people don't normally change, however much you want them to. (This quote actually gave me the idea of doing idioms with my students which they all loved so thanks Mum!)

- "A chip on your shoulder." A favourite of my dad's, often used to describe old boyfriends of mine from university. Believing that someone is always resentful about things that have happened in their life instead of being positive and looking towards the future. This makes my dad sound like a severe man but he isn't, he just doesn't believe in blaming your circumstances and situation for the path your life takes. My dad is living proof that no matter what background you come from you can achieve anything.

- "A cock and bull story." One of my personal favourites. Basically when a person tells an unbelievable story which is clearly a lie. We call it a cock and bull story because we're English and we don't like to curse. So excuse my French while I translate, it means that what the person is saying is total and utter 'bullshit.'

- "Excuse my French" is actually an idiom which as you can see I just used...meaning excuse me for cursing (using a gros mot) No idea why we say this, honestly but it makes me laugh.

- "Are you pulling my leg???" Meaning simply, are you joking? I said this to my colleague only yesterday. It's almost when you can't believe something so to stress how much you can't believe it you ask if your leg is being pulled...makes perfect sense...right?

I could go on for days....(I won't) but you see my point. There are HUNDREDS, I don't think I even know them all and I'm English born and bred. How are we supposed to learn them all in different languages, oh....................wow. I'll stick with my French without the idioms..........for now.

I also had a hilarious run in with a student who kept asking Jack and I on repeat what the word

"teeeeeeeeear shiiiiiiiit" meant

We came up with - toilet paper (Jack) and to tear a piece of paper (me). The word was in fact TIME SHEET. I love the French accent and how much entertainment simple things can provide. Even the student was laughing, he knew he was saying a swear word but he couldn't not say it, his accent was just superb.

Wow...long blog, in the words of the looney tunes - that's all folks!



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An old blog that can finally be posted - the longest blog i've ever blogged

(BEFORE you read - this blog is about a month old so the dates I'm talking about are a little confusing!) I now have internet and a land line at my apartment, hence the appearance of this blog.

Warning: Now…don’t say I didn’t warn you because the title says it all about this particular blog. I haven’t blogged for far too long, not through a lack of want but through lack of time (plus the ongoing lack of internet at my place…I finally got time to try and install it and failed). I think I need to buy a fixed phone for the apartment and eventually it might finally work…just another thing to add to the number of petit erreurs I have made in the past few weeks. I say petit with a hint of sarcasm because I have had several hilarious failures at life in the last few weeks.

Je suis tombee: First of all I fell over in the street, right in front of a packed bar that I often frequent after work. It was terribly embarrassing…helped less by the fact that the person I was with almost didn’t notice and only realised by the reaction of the people who filled the terrace. So…after eventually being helped up and having brushed myself off I entered the bar followed by numerous bad jokes about ‘faire attention’ and ‘quatre ou cinq cocktails mademoiselle??’ I was not impressed as I had only had two cocktails and also fell due to a ridiculously unsafe piece of pavement that is entirely unlevel (France has a lack of concern for health and safety sometimes…in England this pavement would not exist and I would therefore have still been standing). Now before I go any further I just want to explain that I do not normally rant about the French people or the French system of living. However this has been a special couple of weeks and I have had some clashes with both aforementioned things. Alors…viola, this week excuse my rant but sometimes it’s necessary.

Pure idiocy: Last week I also managed to block my phone whilst at Disneyland rendering me phoneless and seriously frustrated. It sounds ridiculous but when your phone is your only connection to your friends, your emails, your blog…..your social life entirely it is incredibly annoying when you manage to block it honestly just by not paying attention. I’m sure people are starting to expect me to do ridiculous things it’s becoming such a recurring thing. I arrived at work the other morning after a pretty poor night’s sleep and my boss must have recognised the look on my face because he asked me “Did you lose your phone again??” Oh yes…reminding me that when I first started at Wall Street I dropped my phone in the Seine whilst enjoying a subway sandwich. Phones in the river, stolen, drove over…whatever next. Anyway of course to fix my phone I had to go to the shop because if you don’t have a Bouygues phone or a landline (which I do but it’s still not working) you can’t call Bouygues to ask for help – ingenious, really. Luckily I had a two hour lunch and there is a shop on Rue Auber so I nipped across in my lunch for what I thought would be a 20 minute jobby. On arrival I was instructed by another customer who was already waiting to take a ticket…so I did. After twenty minutes of watching overweight phone consultants try to sell people phone deals my number finally got called and I got the manager so I thought ‘Great I’m in luck this should take two minutes!’ Unfortunately for me I had the consultant who decided to take a phone call during my ‘meeting’ and proceed to chat about something entirely different for another ten minutes. Now…I am not an impatient person but I can see where some of the French people get their lack of patience from, something that literally should have taken five minutes took almost 45 minutes. I found myself huffing and tutting at the man on the phone who eventually hung up and apologised. I have officially started to become Parisian…I have never tutted someone in my life before. Here in France however it seems it’s how you get things done. Finalement, my phone was unblocked.

Bruises: Owing to the fact that I am constantly falling over, walking into doors/windows/cupboard corners I am normally covered with a bruise or…4. I have four at the moment. My bruises also cause a hilarious amount of discussion between my colleagues and I and seem to provide constant amusement for both staff and students. I have already been asked “Did your boyfriend do that to you??” and have been forced to retell the story of my mauvais circulation (bad circulation) and general lack of balance in life more than ten times. A) I don’t have a boyfriend and B) if I so much as brush past a door I bruise. The best thing I did recently was open my bedroom door and walk into it at the same time…this has happened twice because until I shower in a morning I am not awake at all and my hand-eye co-ordination barely works under normal circumstances…add tiredness = an accident. It left me with a red mark in the middle of my face last time, classy. Funnily enough my clumsiness only really began being noticed when I went to university. I think it’s because (and sorry if you’re reading this Kate Thompson) but my best friend all through school and sixth form (and still wonderful friend back in England) was the clumsiest person I have ever known. Kate could fall over anywhere…we were playing hide and seek once and I hid in the cupboard under the stairs (Harry Potter style) when Kate came tumbling down the stairs in her attempt to locate me. Well she found me of course because I was laughing so hard I burst out the cupboard to find her crumpled at the bottom of the stairs, partially resembling a puppet that had been cut from its strings. So it never really came up until university, Kate was always the clumsy one not me…oh how things change. In conclusion; I bruise a lot (inherited from my mother who is at least 5 times worse with bruises), I used to be self conscious and from time to time I still am (especially if the bruise is on show) but I have started to accept it’s going to be something I’m just going to have to deal with…and the jokes/sarcastic comments that follow.

Je suis tombee…again: So I fell over again, this time with Callum and Lydia on the way home from dinner (not a drop of alcohol had passed my lips). Honestly it’s getting ridiculous. I fell down the stairs in the metro and even caused Callum to ask….”Why are you always falling over Clo??” God if only I knew. My only comfort is that it seems to cause a huge amount of amusement among my friends and family and at least through that it seems it has some purpose. Later in the week I went to a bar in Bastille with some guy friends, tried to cross my legs at the bar and banged my knee so hard on the bar top I almost fell off my stool...one friend who was present is actually a doctor and he explained that I really should ‘faire attention.’ Yes, must be more careful, duly noted.

A general update: Work is great as always, we had our work do recently which was just amazing. It was held in an old sort of museum where everything was a relic of the 50s. Carousels, ball games, balancers, champagne, foie gras, crepes and sushi, a bizarre mix that somehow worked well together. It was the best work party I’ve certainly ever been to, everyone looked great, there were some interesting characters on the dance floor and we danced to a selection of Barry White, the Jacksons, LMAO and other tunes all night. It is a night I will always remember.

Lydia and Callum came to visit and I spent a nice day at Disney with them (minus blocking my phone) and a lovely evening with some other friends Kat, Rich and a face who recently reappeared, back from Boston – Cedric. Apparently he missed the English accent – I face constant debate about which is better, I personally love the enthusiasm behind the American accent but I guess it’s down to personal preference.

I’ve had what feels like several life-changing months, a lot has changed and although I’m still aware that I’m very young and have a lot to learn I’ve definitely grown up. My good friend Helena recently told me that the “sparkle” is back in my eye and I seem myself again. I think I lost myself for a little while along the way resulting in a crack under stress and pressure and the breakdown of a relationship but now in the words of someone I respect very much “Life is good.”

That’s all for now darlings.

Flaner - to walk around aimlessly

For the first time since August I really took a walk (last week). The french call this habit of walking around Paris without a real purpose 'flaner,' and I, for one, love to have a bit of a flan around. The dessert is good too. So last week I finally changed my bank to my address (only three months late) and I went to the old apartment to check the post box which was empty so...viola. I'm starting to feel that that part of my life is almost over and things are moving forward one step at a time. Just spoke to Bouygues and my internet will be fixed after the weekend and they are reimboursing me 63 euros so life is good! Anyway, back to my ambling aroud Paris.

Even though I spent so much time of time last year around Notre Dame I somehow missed the wonderful little road of Rue Saint-Louis en l'Ile. I guess it is named as such due to the fact that it rests between Ile de la cite and Ile saint louis, the only two remaining natural islands on the Seine. It's the centre of Paris and the location were the medieval city was refounded. It's not a large street and on a Friday morning it avoided the disturbance of tourists. Actually, even though it offers some slightly touristic shops (like pylones) it seems to successfully avoid most of the gangs of tourists that surround Notre Dame. It's probably why it's one of my favourite streets, undisturbed and unaffected by les etrangeres (literally the strangers from overseas - foreigners). There are lots of little chic stores, restaurants, brasseries, bakeries, butchers and most importantly fromageries - cheese shops. I have never seen a cheese shop quite like this one. The door is always open and when you walk past the strongest whiff of cheese sweeps through your nostrils. I'm desperate to go in but although I've mastered many things in French buying cheese in measurements is NOT one. I live in fear that I will order and leave with a year's supply of goat's cheese. One day cheese shop, one day.

I also stumbled upon butchers with so much meat in the window that my eyes nearly popped out. My eyes were immediately drawn to an entire pig's leg (including the foot and complete with trotter), a whole turkey and the insides of maybe 5 different animals. The shop was full of people with their hands in the air who looked like they were trying to win something at an auction. Again I failed to have the courage to go in.

Lastly I entered a petite boulangerie to savour the delights of my first Galette de Rois. Admittedly it was not my first ever galette but the first since last year. Galettte de Rois is a traditional French pastry eaten on the day of the epiphany. The cake or pastry normally has a sall trinket inside (last year it was Harry Potter characters) and the person who receives the piece of galette with the trinket can also wear the crown ad becomes King for the day. The pastry is light and fluffy with almonds, butter and a hint of marzipan. It is truly delicious but very sweet. I chase a simple galette individuelle but still only ate half! If you get the chance to try this delicious cake, try to buy a larger one (for 4 people for example) and warm it up a little when you get home. Just be careful not to swallow the trinket!

A new year, a fresh start

Wow...my dedication to my blog has been absolutely....dreadful. I did, in fact, write a huge blog in my appartment which I fully intended to bring to work and add to my collection. However, being me, I typed the entire thing to then realise I had no USB stick (and still no internet connection at my place) and therefore could not move it anywhere. Life 1 - Chloe 0.

So much has happened that I don't even know where to begin.

I had a great weekend with Danielle and Megan back in November, where I laughed so much my stomach hurt and which left me feeling grateful for the amazing people I have in my life. Only your best friends can tell you that "when you speak French it makes me want to have sex with you" or make you look like a transvestite with a scousebrow. It was eventful to say the least.

Work was pretty busy up until Christmas so it was nice to take a break and have some time at home. It was probably the best Christmas yet. Dad was a scrooge (as normal but we wouldn't have it any other way), mum made a gorgeous meal and then drank too much champagne (again normal but we wouldn't have it any other way) and Lydia and I just enjoyed some real quality time together, shopping, chatting, eating and drinking! I didn't see as many of my friends as i'd have liked to as the trip was very short but it was nice to be home, enjoying the fresh sea air and the small town of Teignmouth! A very big change to the world I live in now. I was shocked to find myself zooming through Exeter aiport, only to realise no one else was running and no one was even pushing to get past. I was officially back in Britain. I also laughed to myself when I arrived at the TINY passport control area...(two people and two mini stalls). I've never even realised how small it was before I lived in Paris (where even the smallest terminal is like a maze) but now it made me so happy to be home. The small things in life eh?

New year was spent with Jenny and was pretty good overall. The time with Jen was fantastic and we had so much fun together (involving the night before New year's eve getting so drunk, staying out dancing until half five and then throwing up all day Saturday. Never again....I felt so ill it was horrible but had a really great night. NYE was eventful...and I had a good time with Jenny and even a work colleague and his friends. Unfortunately New year just isn't my time of year, frankly, I hate it. I had a great weekend with Jen but NYE is just always a mixed night. Next year I will take my student's advice and stay in with friends, eating foie gras, drinking champagne and talking about what the new year will bring.

Now it's the new year and work is going smoothly and we are still laughing as always. My boss turned up with his jumper on inside out today, one of the many highlights of my working day. I finally paid my debt to Adam so now I feel free (except my bank hates me and I still can't withdraw any cash) but things are looking up. My personal life is censored and will remain so until I have something interesting and worthwhile to say.

The important thing is that I made a resolution for this year to take care of myself more and look for what I really want in my life rather than what I am supposed to want. Last year was a huge learning curve for me and I am still riding the end of that wave so...let's see what 2012 brings.

Bonne année

Happy New Year!

Wednesday, too early am

For some unknown reason I have woken up a full 40 minutes before my alarm today...so I have a little extra time to blog. I imagine I woke up because last night I was concerned about sleeping through my alarm and missing my appointment with my landlord...I think this is the main culprit. Anyway...today is my long day when I work until 21h but it's not so bad as tomorrow is my last day before a much needed 4 day weekend with Danielle and Megan.

When you live abroad you really start to realise which of your friends you truly appreciate, and which appreciate you in return. My university girls have shone through, always being there (even at 3am...sorry Dani), sending funny (and sometimes slightly crazy) messages that always get us laughing and having group chats on our phones that have become the closest we can get to pretending we're still at university....living carefree and irresponsibly. For these reasons and many more I'm very excited to see the girls this weekend. We all deserve a weekend off traipsing around Paris, mid-winter, drinking gluwein and just being totally British in every way. Oh la di da.

My American colleagues do some fantatic impressions of my British-ness...I only wish I could imitate them too to make it even. Will have to work on my accents (if you know me at all you will understand how difficult this may be. Yesterday I tried to do chinese it came out italian...need I say more.

The next post will be more cultural/informative/insightful blah blah but for now this is about all you're getting from me at this ungodly hour. Hi ho hi ho it's off to work I go.

à Londres

Finding the time to blog is not easy when you don't have the internet in your apartment (that's right I STILL don't have the internet) but...I think it's starting to come together so I shouldn't have to wait too much longer.

I want to write about all my recent experiences but I just don't have the time unfortunately...however here is a quick update.

Last weekend I went to London. Yes, that's right, the Devon born and bred girl who has avoided London her entire life whilst driving a tractor (metaphorically speaking) finally made the trip to the capital of England. I didn't do all the traditional tourist sites as my main priority was spending time with the girls and seeing old faces but I did manage a small trip to Oxford Street which I thoroughly enjoyed. The house the girls now live in is amazing. With it's high ceilings, modern kitchen, tall windows and 42 stairs to the top (complete with a gorgeous wooden hand rail) it's a far cry from student living in Loughborough. Not that we didn't love our house in Loughborough but the fire doors constantly slamming or blocking you out of a room weren't the best idea ever...I am also happy to say that everyone seemed content and all doing well (we're all employed wahoo - two fingers up to the failing economy. I also laughed more than I have in a really really long time so I am very grateful to the girls for such a wonderful weekend.

I am happy at work as always and my personal life is not a complete mess which is always a plus. I will be in the UK again this weekend visiting my grandparents, sister, aunt, uncle and cousins (and little Thomas who is totally new to me!!) which I can't wait for. This week is pretty busy so I'm glad I found a short time to blog before my week is over before it begins (the time is flying by).

When I was at Clapham North station they have 'a thought of the day' on the wall. I had to write it down because it really meant something to me after everything i've experienced the last few months, so now I'll share it with you as your thought for the day (if you're reading this)...

"If you don't know where you're going you will probably end up somewhere else."

Oh and have a bit of Jason Mraz to cheer us all up in this miserable winter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=acvIVA9-FMQ

Moving forward

When I said times were changing I completely underestimated just how much things would change. My life is completely different now and I'm happy to say that I believe it's changed for the better.

I am célibataire now (however which way you put it, it means i'm single). Something which was unexpected to say the least and very painful at the time. Partly it still is and i'm not afraid to say that I suffered for a long time with a very broken heart. I don't know where this new wave of honesty has come from and apologies to all you readers and more importantly friends out there who have had to listen to this crap for the last few months. But there is a reason I write this now in my blog, for you all to see, because things have finally changed. I have turned a corner let's say. I have discovered a lot about myself, my friends (some I can trust, other's i've realised I cannot) and what I want for my future. I promise now this blog won't be all dreary seriousness about failed relationships but it's finally time to say something (after nearly a month of not blogging because I had no idea what to say...)

Now i'm happy. Things are a little complicated but i'm taking the steps to uncomplicate things and doing my best with the situation i'm faced with now. A very close friend of mine gave me the strength to finally do some necessary things and I am already feeling the weight easing from my shoulders. Thankyou to that person...you know who you are.

After ten years of following the band my dad and I finally got to see the RHCP's in concert and they were just...mindblowing. Well worth the wait and made us both stupidly happy. Poster now firmly attached to my wall in my room.

This weekend is sort of quiet so I hope i'll find time to blog again. I don't mind the quiet one because the next three are so busy for me. I have my mum and aunt here, then i'm in London with the girls for their housewarming (so excited!!!!) and then i'm visiting my grandparents, finally! So things are moving forward, really forward. No more going backwards!

As the French would say...c'est fini!

Times are changing

I pretty much have to grab anytime I can these days to blog. I have had a busy first 2 weeks, my training was great and really helped to prepare me for the job I am doing now. This is my second week of 'real work' I suppose and I can honestly say I am loving it (hope this doesn't jinx it). The first week I was here I was actually the biggest stress head ever and I am still trying to give out apologies to the person who suffered the effects of this bad mood the most (you know who you are). The problem was I have never not had a plan and I have been lucky enough that things have never really not gone my way...Must be the luck of the Irish (thanks Nan!) Unfortunately this meant that I have become accustomed to not screwing up and in a way things were always fairly easy for me. In France by the way, they are not. I didn't really understand how big the move was that I was making which in turn caused me to freak out big time and question if I had even made the right decision. Furthermore I had no appartment of my own, no bank account, no french phone, no navigo...basically I couldn't do anything. I mistakenly thought France would be the same as the UK but actually it's all paperwork, paperwork and you guessed it paperwork. Nothing is straightforward, even when you think it is, it isn't.

BUT on the plus side I began to realise that freaking out wasn't helping anyone, least of all myself. Things will get done but one step at a time and in France this means more slowly than you would like. However this week I managed to get my navigo (even if I basically had to convince the guy I would find an appartment the same day), have made progress with my bank; actually I screwed up and have to send more documents but progress is positive! I have a viewing of a petit petit studio on Friday but it's in a nice area and it would mean having a place to call my own (on verra) and I seem to have got a grip on my life in general. It almost ran away from me...literally it was moving so fast I thought I might fall off the wheel and never get back on. Luckily I have an amazing set of friends here in Paris who have supported my decision and repeatedly calmed me down when I thought my head might explode. I am also very lucky that a himself is so patient because sometimes I don't know how he doesn't throw things at me.

All in all things are going well, the girls are all starting to arrive, himself is back soon after a bit of a disaster holiday in NYC, my family are sunning themselves in Tenerife (a well deserved break) and I am happy. I couldn't ask for more at the moment so keep your fingers crossed for more news from the fish across the pond.

à bientôt

Je suis arrivée

Alors...I have arrived. Forgive me for any typos but i'm back on a French keyboard and still getting used to it. Anyway today is my first day back in Paris, unfortunately it's a bank holiday so there are simply too many people. Gui and I had a nice lunch together at the appartment though and then I went off looking for my new training office for tomorrow. I thought I had it all sorted, I had the address, I google mapped it, Gui pointed me in the right direction and off I went.

40 minutes later, feet blistered from new shoes I arrived at 88 Boulevard St Michel. I was looking for 90 bvd st michel...which apparently doesn't exist. I walked all around the area and even back the other way to check I hadn't missed it but no luck. So I decided in the sunshine I would go have a lie down on the grass in Luxembourg Gardens where I had a half an hour nap before heading back. I have just checked online (on the actual work webpage) and it looks like there is another 90 bvd saint michel and it's right near Clunny La Sorbonne so I'm going to go for another walk in a minute (worry not I bought plasters)!!!

Also because of ther Ascension the Notre Dame bells are having a party. It was pretty annoying at 11pm last night but I walked past earlier and they had speakers outside so you could hear the choir. It was pretty amazing! I just sent off the last part of my assignment so now I best strap up my feet and head out again.

Biz