Enjoy this little treat of my Halloween weekend!
The links are to photos of:
St. Denis Basilica
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=556445&id=756660499&l=6c41dc2fe
Left Bank Trips
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=556457&id=756660499&l=1ce58f67cf
Catacombs and the Pantheon
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=556998&id=756660499&l=71ce96ca32
Expect a blog update very soon!!
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
All Hallows Eve Eve, Parisian style
So begins my Parisian Halloween weekend folks!
Friday: I had my first French test; I thought it wasn't terrible but that will depend on my grade come Tuesday. And since I got out of class early, I got an early start on my visit to St. Denis! My overall impression of St. Denis is that it's more authentically Gothic than Notre-Dame. Don't get me wrong, Notre-Dame is impressive, but St. Denis has a certain flavor to it.
Abbot Suger, who was a 12th century statesman & abbot, rebuilt major portions of the Basilica when it was just an abbey church. It's thanks to him that Gothic became known and spread throughout Europe. Plus, unlike Notre-Dame, St. Denis didn't suffer the massive destruction of statues and damage of it's facade like Notre-Dame did. But St. Denis did end up with some desecration; some of the tombs were opened and the bodies scattered, but many remains were later found and returned.
The basilica is quite impressive, beautiful windows and a very beautiful altar. Not only that, Joan of Arc came to the basilica in 1429, and in a symbolic gesture, offered her armor to St. Denis. But the real prize is that St. Denis is the Royal Necropolis of France. All but 3 French kings are buried here. So seeing their tombs was so surreal. Some of them, like Henry II and Catherine de Medici's are quite impressive. I plan on putting some photo links up soon.
In the crypt of the church are more tombs of famous monarchs: Louis XIV, Louis XV, and yes, Louis XVI. In black marble tombs are the remains of Marie Antoinette and her husband. I was freaking out!!
Today was equally as great. I met up with Kirstie and Mandi to go to Louis Vuitton. Now, it wasn't to shop there. But if I were to have endless amounts of money, I would spend it on luggage. That's what got the original Louis V. going: luggage and trunks. Needless to say, these are still made beautifully, definitely pieces that will last a lifetime. And you can get them without the annoying LV logo; I think so much of what LV now makes is too loud or gaudy. A nice handsome piece of luggage never goes out of style.
But I digress.
The LV store has a museum on the top floor. No joke. The exhibition changes, and the one we saw was called "Who are you Peter?" in reference to Peter Pan. The exhibit was modern art, playing around the idea of Peter Pan, Neverland and not growing up. Getting to the top is the best. They explain to you that when you up the elevator, it's done in complete silence and in pitch black dark. This is supposed to clear your mind and prepare you for the exhibit.
Needless to say, I loved it! It was eerie, creepy, and haunting. Which is a lot like Peter Pan; Disney makes the story so sweet, but Peter Pan isn't all rainbows and gumdrops. Neverland is quite wild, remember how the mermaids try to drown Wendy?
After the museum we got a fantastic lunch at Les Deux Magots, a very famous cafe that was frequented by Simone de Beauvoir, Jean Paul Sartre and other members of the intelligentsia. We ate outside because it was so beautiful. My meal consisted of:
*Cup of hot wine. YUM.
*Omelette with cheese, ham & herbs.
*Roll.
*Chocolate cake from heaven. It was covered in chocolate ganache. It melted in my mouth. And I melted with it.
To finish off the day we explored Montparnasse Cemetery. There we saw the graves of:
*Simone de Beauvoir & Jean Paul Sartre
*Serge Gainsbourg, singer-songwriter & once had an affair with Brigitte Bardot
*Alfred Dreyfus (remember the Dreyfus Affair and J'accuse?)
But what really struck me was the grave of a family we saw. Three family members aren't buried there; instead the sign read "To the memory of... deported and died at Auschwitz."
I gasped when I read that. Many other tombs in this cemetery mentioned "Lost to the German Barbary," namely the German invasion and/or deportation. There was a much more feeling of sadness to this cemetery vs. Pere Lachaise. This cemetery seems to be much more active, and seeing all the flowers on graves in preparation for Toussaint, or All Saint's Day, definitely gave the place a more somber feeling.
I mistakenly thought All Souls came before All Saints, but that's not the case. All Saints is Monday and All Souls Tuesday, but it looks like the French combine the too, for on Toussaint the graves are decorated with flowers. I saw some older couples placing flowers on graves, and I just felt so sad. For though we tourists come to graveyards to look up famous people, right next to them is someone's husband or wife, brother or sister. And who knows what their life was like. Perhaps it was just as extraordinary or tragic like Jim Morrison's or Edith Piaf's.
I plan on going to Mass Monday morning for All Saints, and then to another church for prayer on All Souls. It's always nice to take some time away from the busy world and reflect.
Friday: I had my first French test; I thought it wasn't terrible but that will depend on my grade come Tuesday. And since I got out of class early, I got an early start on my visit to St. Denis! My overall impression of St. Denis is that it's more authentically Gothic than Notre-Dame. Don't get me wrong, Notre-Dame is impressive, but St. Denis has a certain flavor to it.
Abbot Suger, who was a 12th century statesman & abbot, rebuilt major portions of the Basilica when it was just an abbey church. It's thanks to him that Gothic became known and spread throughout Europe. Plus, unlike Notre-Dame, St. Denis didn't suffer the massive destruction of statues and damage of it's facade like Notre-Dame did. But St. Denis did end up with some desecration; some of the tombs were opened and the bodies scattered, but many remains were later found and returned.
The basilica is quite impressive, beautiful windows and a very beautiful altar. Not only that, Joan of Arc came to the basilica in 1429, and in a symbolic gesture, offered her armor to St. Denis. But the real prize is that St. Denis is the Royal Necropolis of France. All but 3 French kings are buried here. So seeing their tombs was so surreal. Some of them, like Henry II and Catherine de Medici's are quite impressive. I plan on putting some photo links up soon.
In the crypt of the church are more tombs of famous monarchs: Louis XIV, Louis XV, and yes, Louis XVI. In black marble tombs are the remains of Marie Antoinette and her husband. I was freaking out!!
Today was equally as great. I met up with Kirstie and Mandi to go to Louis Vuitton. Now, it wasn't to shop there. But if I were to have endless amounts of money, I would spend it on luggage. That's what got the original Louis V. going: luggage and trunks. Needless to say, these are still made beautifully, definitely pieces that will last a lifetime. And you can get them without the annoying LV logo; I think so much of what LV now makes is too loud or gaudy. A nice handsome piece of luggage never goes out of style.
But I digress.
The LV store has a museum on the top floor. No joke. The exhibition changes, and the one we saw was called "Who are you Peter?" in reference to Peter Pan. The exhibit was modern art, playing around the idea of Peter Pan, Neverland and not growing up. Getting to the top is the best. They explain to you that when you up the elevator, it's done in complete silence and in pitch black dark. This is supposed to clear your mind and prepare you for the exhibit.
Needless to say, I loved it! It was eerie, creepy, and haunting. Which is a lot like Peter Pan; Disney makes the story so sweet, but Peter Pan isn't all rainbows and gumdrops. Neverland is quite wild, remember how the mermaids try to drown Wendy?
After the museum we got a fantastic lunch at Les Deux Magots, a very famous cafe that was frequented by Simone de Beauvoir, Jean Paul Sartre and other members of the intelligentsia. We ate outside because it was so beautiful. My meal consisted of:
*Cup of hot wine. YUM.
*Omelette with cheese, ham & herbs.
*Roll.
*Chocolate cake from heaven. It was covered in chocolate ganache. It melted in my mouth. And I melted with it.
To finish off the day we explored Montparnasse Cemetery. There we saw the graves of:
*Simone de Beauvoir & Jean Paul Sartre
*Serge Gainsbourg, singer-songwriter & once had an affair with Brigitte Bardot
*Alfred Dreyfus (remember the Dreyfus Affair and J'accuse?)
But what really struck me was the grave of a family we saw. Three family members aren't buried there; instead the sign read "To the memory of... deported and died at Auschwitz."
I gasped when I read that. Many other tombs in this cemetery mentioned "Lost to the German Barbary," namely the German invasion and/or deportation. There was a much more feeling of sadness to this cemetery vs. Pere Lachaise. This cemetery seems to be much more active, and seeing all the flowers on graves in preparation for Toussaint, or All Saint's Day, definitely gave the place a more somber feeling.
I mistakenly thought All Souls came before All Saints, but that's not the case. All Saints is Monday and All Souls Tuesday, but it looks like the French combine the too, for on Toussaint the graves are decorated with flowers. I saw some older couples placing flowers on graves, and I just felt so sad. For though we tourists come to graveyards to look up famous people, right next to them is someone's husband or wife, brother or sister. And who knows what their life was like. Perhaps it was just as extraordinary or tragic like Jim Morrison's or Edith Piaf's.
I plan on going to Mass Monday morning for All Saints, and then to another church for prayer on All Souls. It's always nice to take some time away from the busy world and reflect.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Ma semaine!
That, mes beaux amis, was taken on Wednesday. We've been having absolutely GORGEOUS fall weather. I can't praise the weather enough. So, I think I need to fill you in on this week.
Tuesday was special. We saw the Claude Monet exhibit at the Grand Palais, the building you see in this photos. The exhibition, titled "Claude Monet 1840-1926" is probably one of the most talked about art exhibitions going on. And it's a hard one to get into; people were buying tickets months in advance. Why? Well, because this is a retrospective exhibit of Monet's work.
The last time a full retrospective Monet exhibit was held?
1980. 30 YEARS! And I was there.
Our guide, the dapper and fabulous Julien with his wonderful suit and green scarf, gave us commentary. This made the exhibit more special. We learned so much about each painting or group of paintings. And it made me sympathize Monet. For such a talented artist, he had an incredibly tough and tragic life. But what amazed me were Monet's sunset paintings. I swear to God these paintings were glowing with the light of the sun, I wanted the lights to turn off and I bet these paintings would glow.
Wednesday, that gorgeous fall day, I went to the church of St. Germain des Pres, founded in the 6th century. It's quite cool. Just a different interior, and home to the grave of Rene Descartes, who knew? I didn't! I then met up with Natalie, a Salve alumna ('08) who's teaching English in a school outside of Paris. We had some classic cafe fare for dinner and just walked around the St. Germain des Pres area. It's wicked nice, very quaint. Very much enjoyed that day.
Today, for my fashion class we went to the Invalides, specifically the Musee de l'Armee, and saw this incredible exhibit of military uniforms, regalia, weapons and art. It was just impressive, everything is laid out so nicely and there was so much. It just kept going and going and going.
Now I'm here, trying not to study. And this weekend I'm very excited. Since the French don't celebrate Halloween, I'm doing my own Halloween weekend!
Friday:
St. Denis Basilica after class.
Satuday:
Montparnasse Cemetery, Les Deux Magots & Louis Vuitton store! Not related but it'll be fun to window shop.
Sunday:
Catacombs and the Pantheon.
Monday: Mass at some point, Salon du Chocolat & Pere Lachaise.
And I leave you with a photo of one of my all time favorite historical figures!
Entrez Jeanne d'Arc!
Monday, October 25, 2010
An evening at the Garnier
First off, pictures will be up soon, and I never made it to the Pantheon today. C'est la vie.
But, to sum up my evening, it shall be in 3 words:
Magnificent
Beautiful
Wonderful
The Opera Garnier is just breathtaking. Picture the Boston Opera House, but older and steeped in more history. And a much more prestigious stage. The ballet tonight was Paquita by Joseph Mazilier and Paul Foucher. This wasn't a ballet I was familiar with, but I enjoyed it immensely. Here are the following reasons:
*Costumes. So beautiful, especially the women's. I recognized some pieces from my Fashion class, and since the ballet is set in Spain, the Spanish women's black and gold costumes were stunning. Those and Paquita's white sequined tutu were just mesmerizing under the lights.
*Speaking of mesmerizing, the dancers were in top form. The two main characters, Paquita & Lucien, were phenomenal. Their leaps, pirouettes, just beautifully done. Imagine these two gorgeous amazingly in-shape dancers who move like feathers. I always smiled when he lifted her. For some reason, during any ballet, when the man lifts up the women and she glides through the air, *ah* I just melt.
*Music! The music had that Spanish influence which was lovely, and even the dancers partook in the effort. I've never seen a ballet with so much input from the dancers; they clapped, played tambourines, stomped their feet, snapped. The orchestra (which I'm always partial to more than the dancers) and dancers blended so well together.
So yes, my glamorous evening at the opera was a success. It makes me want to see The Nutcracker when I get home!
But, to sum up my evening, it shall be in 3 words:
Magnificent
Beautiful
Wonderful
The Opera Garnier is just breathtaking. Picture the Boston Opera House, but older and steeped in more history. And a much more prestigious stage. The ballet tonight was Paquita by Joseph Mazilier and Paul Foucher. This wasn't a ballet I was familiar with, but I enjoyed it immensely. Here are the following reasons:
*Costumes. So beautiful, especially the women's. I recognized some pieces from my Fashion class, and since the ballet is set in Spain, the Spanish women's black and gold costumes were stunning. Those and Paquita's white sequined tutu were just mesmerizing under the lights.
*Speaking of mesmerizing, the dancers were in top form. The two main characters, Paquita & Lucien, were phenomenal. Their leaps, pirouettes, just beautifully done. Imagine these two gorgeous amazingly in-shape dancers who move like feathers. I always smiled when he lifted her. For some reason, during any ballet, when the man lifts up the women and she glides through the air, *ah* I just melt.
*Music! The music had that Spanish influence which was lovely, and even the dancers partook in the effort. I've never seen a ballet with so much input from the dancers; they clapped, played tambourines, stomped their feet, snapped. The orchestra (which I'm always partial to more than the dancers) and dancers blended so well together.
So yes, my glamorous evening at the opera was a success. It makes me want to see The Nutcracker when I get home!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Mon dimanche à Paris
Ce dimanche, était très calme.
Ce matin, je suis allé à la messe à Notre-Dame. J'étais un petit émotionnel. La musique d'orgue était lancinant. Pour être dans cette cathédrale est d'être dans un autre monde.
Après la messe, je suis allé au jardin du Palais-Royal. Ce jardin est un joyau caché. Derrière le Palais-Royal et des échafaudages, il est silencieux et tranquille. C'est un endroit idéale pour lire, faire les dévoirs, écrire, etc.
J'ai parlé avec mon père; c'était une bonne conversation. J'adore parler avec lui.
Overall, it's been a very lazy Sunday, something I haven't had yet. It's been nice to email and talk with people, get homework done, just take a break from the hustle and bustle of life. And I'm going to need to be ready for this week.
Mon: Pantheon & Ballet.
Tues: Grand Palais
Wed: St. Germain des Pres
Thurs: Invalides
Fri: St. Denis Basilica
Honestly people, I SWEAR I'm taking classes.
Ce matin, je suis allé à la messe à Notre-Dame. J'étais un petit émotionnel. La musique d'orgue était lancinant. Pour être dans cette cathédrale est d'être dans un autre monde.
Après la messe, je suis allé au jardin du Palais-Royal. Ce jardin est un joyau caché. Derrière le Palais-Royal et des échafaudages, il est silencieux et tranquille. C'est un endroit idéale pour lire, faire les dévoirs, écrire, etc.
J'ai parlé avec mon père; c'était une bonne conversation. J'adore parler avec lui.
Overall, it's been a very lazy Sunday, something I haven't had yet. It's been nice to email and talk with people, get homework done, just take a break from the hustle and bustle of life. And I'm going to need to be ready for this week.
Mon: Pantheon & Ballet.
Tues: Grand Palais
Wed: St. Germain des Pres
Thurs: Invalides
Fri: St. Denis Basilica
Honestly people, I SWEAR I'm taking classes.
Ma semaine avec les deux M's
Before I even get to my leisurely Sunday, here is the chronicle of my week with Mom & Mary. For the record, Mary has been a dear friend of my Mom's since their good old days at Haverhill High. Go Hillies! Okay, let's begin.
This week involved a lot of laughter, fun, and free meals for myself. I easily saved money on dinner, so points for me.
Sunday & Monday we had dinner; Monday I showed them the Latin Quarter, they met the ladies at the AIFS office plus a bunch of the other students. We had the BEST lunch at Le Soufflot Café, and my meal of a croque -madame was divine.
Tuesday was very special. My dear host family had the two of them over for drinks, and we had a ball. Before I showed the two the view of Paris from the park, and they fell in love with the house I'm living in! My host dad, my God he is a Renaissance man: He knows multiple languages, plays piano, is incredibly intelligent, descended from aristocracy and conductors. And this is all 1 person! We had a delicious bottle of wine and snacks, plus he let me play their piano and I gave a little concert for all. My song of choice? Someone To Watch Over Me. Gershwin never goes out of style folks. That evening remains as perhaps the best night I've had here.
Wednesday & Thursday we only chatted; those were my busiest days, so the two M's explored more of Paris. Friday night we met for dinner at a delicious Italian restaurant near their hotel. We had planned for Saturday, we would go to Versailles!! Again!
Now, what I loved was that we went this company that picks you up from your hotels; the driving fee plus tickets are included. This included a ticket for the Fountain Show; basically the Fountains of Versailles are turned out for 2.5 hours, and you listen to classical music as they go. Not bad.
Now, I had already seen the chateau; my goal was to visit Le Hameau de la Reine, The Queen's Hamlet. The queen in question? Miss Marie Antoinette herself. She had constructed a makeshift country village complete with farm animals. She and her ladies played dress-up while French people starved. Yes, not the most smart thing.
So, in order to get there, I *shudder* power-walked through the chateau. I can't believe it either. And then I power-walked to the grounds. First off, the grounds of Versailles are breathtaking, I think more impressive than the chateau.
As I was walking the driveway to the Petit Trianon (on the grounds), tall trees in shades of yellow lined the walkway. I somehow felt a peace and relaxation, I felt miles away from Versailles and the crowds. Soon I found myself getting into the psychology of Marie Antoinette. Once I got through the PT (for free with my student ID, YES!) I came upon these grounds of twisting paths and lovely plants.
And then, after some twists and turns, I came upon the Queen's Hamlet. And no wonder she had this built. It's one of the most adorable places I've ever seen. Little thatched cottages, vine covered archways, little vineyards. Plus, crows, sheep, goats, pigs, ducks, chickens, swans, all just having a blast. And I had a giant smile on my face the whole time. I was having so much fun, and you could imagine Marie Antoinette playing milkmaid on a sunny day, thrilled to be away from the intrigue of Versailles, along with the many people who really disliked her and borderline hated her. And that's just from the French aristocracy.
I felt so sorry for her. A bride before she was 16, motherhood soon after. And then, dead at 37. Yikes.
Saturday night we were looking for a special restaurant that does chicken apparently very well. But, due to the freak thunderstorm, we ate at Le Notre Dame. My roasted chicken was heavenly, and the crème brûlée was the perfect finish.
After a little shopping on the Champs-Élysées, we had to say our goodbyes. Those are never fun. But I'm just so happy they came. We were able to catch up, and I got share Paris with them! They had such fun; and why shouldn't they? How you not have fun with one of your best friends in Paris, France?
This week involved a lot of laughter, fun, and free meals for myself. I easily saved money on dinner, so points for me.
Sunday & Monday we had dinner; Monday I showed them the Latin Quarter, they met the ladies at the AIFS office plus a bunch of the other students. We had the BEST lunch at Le Soufflot Café, and my meal of a croque -madame was divine.
Tuesday was very special. My dear host family had the two of them over for drinks, and we had a ball. Before I showed the two the view of Paris from the park, and they fell in love with the house I'm living in! My host dad, my God he is a Renaissance man: He knows multiple languages, plays piano, is incredibly intelligent, descended from aristocracy and conductors. And this is all 1 person! We had a delicious bottle of wine and snacks, plus he let me play their piano and I gave a little concert for all. My song of choice? Someone To Watch Over Me. Gershwin never goes out of style folks. That evening remains as perhaps the best night I've had here.
Wednesday & Thursday we only chatted; those were my busiest days, so the two M's explored more of Paris. Friday night we met for dinner at a delicious Italian restaurant near their hotel. We had planned for Saturday, we would go to Versailles!! Again!
Now, what I loved was that we went this company that picks you up from your hotels; the driving fee plus tickets are included. This included a ticket for the Fountain Show; basically the Fountains of Versailles are turned out for 2.5 hours, and you listen to classical music as they go. Not bad.
Now, I had already seen the chateau; my goal was to visit Le Hameau de la Reine, The Queen's Hamlet. The queen in question? Miss Marie Antoinette herself. She had constructed a makeshift country village complete with farm animals. She and her ladies played dress-up while French people starved. Yes, not the most smart thing.
So, in order to get there, I *shudder* power-walked through the chateau. I can't believe it either. And then I power-walked to the grounds. First off, the grounds of Versailles are breathtaking, I think more impressive than the chateau.
As I was walking the driveway to the Petit Trianon (on the grounds), tall trees in shades of yellow lined the walkway. I somehow felt a peace and relaxation, I felt miles away from Versailles and the crowds. Soon I found myself getting into the psychology of Marie Antoinette. Once I got through the PT (for free with my student ID, YES!) I came upon these grounds of twisting paths and lovely plants.
And then, after some twists and turns, I came upon the Queen's Hamlet. And no wonder she had this built. It's one of the most adorable places I've ever seen. Little thatched cottages, vine covered archways, little vineyards. Plus, crows, sheep, goats, pigs, ducks, chickens, swans, all just having a blast. And I had a giant smile on my face the whole time. I was having so much fun, and you could imagine Marie Antoinette playing milkmaid on a sunny day, thrilled to be away from the intrigue of Versailles, along with the many people who really disliked her and borderline hated her. And that's just from the French aristocracy.
I felt so sorry for her. A bride before she was 16, motherhood soon after. And then, dead at 37. Yikes.
Saturday night we were looking for a special restaurant that does chicken apparently very well. But, due to the freak thunderstorm, we ate at Le Notre Dame. My roasted chicken was heavenly, and the crème brûlée was the perfect finish.
After a little shopping on the Champs-Élysées, we had to say our goodbyes. Those are never fun. But I'm just so happy they came. We were able to catch up, and I got share Paris with them! They had such fun; and why shouldn't they? How you not have fun with one of your best friends in Paris, France?
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Normandie et Bretagne
Here we finish off the weekend!
Saturday morning, I got up extremely early for the trip to Normandy & Brittany! We were lead by our fearless leader, the always nicely dressed British delight that is Jane, our cultural coordinator. (I hope you're reading!)
We left and headed first to Caen, spending too little time at the Memorial de Caen, which is dedicated to peace. Don't let that last cheesy sentence fool you. This place is SO COOL. It chronicles WWII, the Cold War, the War in the Pacific, using an amazing amount of secondary sources. Unfortunately, due to time constraints (and some late-comers), we didn't spend too much time.
But, what we saw was jaw-dropping. We watched a film of the D-Day Invasion. It was a split-screen, showing the Allies on one side, and the Germans on the other. I'm sorry, but "Saving Private Ryan" can't compare to the real thing. I thought it was a good preparation for what we were to then see.
We visited the American Cemetery & Omaha Beach. Everyone, I will write very little, but what I will say is this: Like visiting Arlington National Cemetery, Pearl Harbor or Ground Zero, it's heavy. I was extremely emotional; I had tears going down my face the entire time, my bottom lip couldn't stay still and my nose ran. You are just overwhelmed by the beach, the white crosses, the names and lack of names on graves. Goosebumps take hold of you and you become so humbled.
After we went to the Point du Hoc, a high point on the cliffs were the Germans were stationed. Well, I had a blast! Suddenly I turned 6 years old, and I looked at the holes left by Allied bombing and destroyed bunkers with the eyes of a child. We ran around, explored, played soldier, honestly we had a ball! After this moment of merriment, we drove to our hotel in the charming city of St. Malo.
And let me tell you, I want to live here. Seriously.
For dinner that night, me and the always wonderful travel companion Kirstie had the following meal:
Galette (savory buckwheat pancake) with cheese and an egg.
Cider to drink.
Apple pie for dessert with ice cream & whipped cream.
Jealous? I thought so.
Sunday my travel companion and I walked along the ramparts of the city. Isn't that the coolest sentence? It was such a nice morning, no wind. We then had a wicked awesome breakfast, and then left St. Malo for.. Mont St. Michel!
Just imagine this little village, with an abbey dating from the 9th century, and during the day it's like a little mountain, surrounded by quicksand and mud. But when the tide comes in, it's an island! We got to explore the abbey which was beautiful; Mass was being said and I wish we had gotten their earlier so I could participate. After that we got lunch, I purchased a wonderful poster listing the genealogy of the French kings, and some butter biscuits.
We then drove home, getting back early enough where I met my mom and Mary!! They arrived on Saturday, and are staying until Sunday. We've had a lovely time. Expect a blog update soon. And pictures, be patient!
I realize I haven't said this often, but I miss and love you all.
Saturday morning, I got up extremely early for the trip to Normandy & Brittany! We were lead by our fearless leader, the always nicely dressed British delight that is Jane, our cultural coordinator. (I hope you're reading!)
We left and headed first to Caen, spending too little time at the Memorial de Caen, which is dedicated to peace. Don't let that last cheesy sentence fool you. This place is SO COOL. It chronicles WWII, the Cold War, the War in the Pacific, using an amazing amount of secondary sources. Unfortunately, due to time constraints (and some late-comers), we didn't spend too much time.
But, what we saw was jaw-dropping. We watched a film of the D-Day Invasion. It was a split-screen, showing the Allies on one side, and the Germans on the other. I'm sorry, but "Saving Private Ryan" can't compare to the real thing. I thought it was a good preparation for what we were to then see.
We visited the American Cemetery & Omaha Beach. Everyone, I will write very little, but what I will say is this: Like visiting Arlington National Cemetery, Pearl Harbor or Ground Zero, it's heavy. I was extremely emotional; I had tears going down my face the entire time, my bottom lip couldn't stay still and my nose ran. You are just overwhelmed by the beach, the white crosses, the names and lack of names on graves. Goosebumps take hold of you and you become so humbled.
After we went to the Point du Hoc, a high point on the cliffs were the Germans were stationed. Well, I had a blast! Suddenly I turned 6 years old, and I looked at the holes left by Allied bombing and destroyed bunkers with the eyes of a child. We ran around, explored, played soldier, honestly we had a ball! After this moment of merriment, we drove to our hotel in the charming city of St. Malo.
And let me tell you, I want to live here. Seriously.
For dinner that night, me and the always wonderful travel companion Kirstie had the following meal:
Galette (savory buckwheat pancake) with cheese and an egg.
Cider to drink.
Apple pie for dessert with ice cream & whipped cream.
Jealous? I thought so.
Sunday my travel companion and I walked along the ramparts of the city. Isn't that the coolest sentence? It was such a nice morning, no wind. We then had a wicked awesome breakfast, and then left St. Malo for.. Mont St. Michel!
Just imagine this little village, with an abbey dating from the 9th century, and during the day it's like a little mountain, surrounded by quicksand and mud. But when the tide comes in, it's an island! We got to explore the abbey which was beautiful; Mass was being said and I wish we had gotten their earlier so I could participate. After that we got lunch, I purchased a wonderful poster listing the genealogy of the French kings, and some butter biscuits.
We then drove home, getting back early enough where I met my mom and Mary!! They arrived on Saturday, and are staying until Sunday. We've had a lovely time. Expect a blog update soon. And pictures, be patient!
I realize I haven't said this often, but I miss and love you all.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Bonjour tout le monde!
Mes amis!
I hope you really didn't think I would stop blogging, did you? Goodness there's so much to write about, so I'll do my best.
Friday: hmm, what I do Friday? Ah, here we go. I went for a quick visit (quick because I will come back to spend more time) at the Memorial de la Shoah, the Holocaust Memorial Museum here in Paris. What is incredible about the Museum is the amount of documents and written sources it has. Unbelievable.
I went there because the Museum has an exhibit on the writer Irene Nemirovsky. She was Russian born, but her family came to Paris. While Jewish, she, like many upper-class Jews, assimilated into French society. She was an acclaimed author; her works today are a joy to read. The book I just finished that she's very famous for, is titled "Suite Francaise." Besides being an incredibly written book, it's incredible because it is unfinished. Nemirovsky was arrested and deported to Auschwitz in 1942. Her husband would follow.
Intense? You bet; you saw photographs, her diploma from the Sorbonne, her belongings, manuscripts, newspaper clippings, everything under the sun! It was incredible!
What was very sobering and moving though was the crypt. You enter a giant room, and in front of you, is a grave. It is a giant black Star of David, and within this star are ashes of Holocaust victims, and earth from Jerusalem. On the wall is a passage from the Book of Lamentations, to the effect of, "See my sons and daughters, killed by the enemy's hands."
But what also fueled my emotions was this rude comment left in the guestbook by an American visitor. She was so appalled by the use of French in the museum and thought more English should be used.
IT'S A MUSEUM... IN FRANCE. And if she had good eyesight, everything had translations. The Irene Nemirovsky exhibit was all in French, but it's a temporary exhibit. Why waist time and money making translations on something that won't stay?
I retorted back in the guestbook: "One doesn't need a translation of language to learn of the horrors of the Holocaust. As an American student in Paris, I look forward to my return."
Take that rude America. Who would have thought that the first moment of rudeness that happened in France came from an American, and not a French person. Whoever started that "rude Frenchmen" stereotype needs a slap in the face.
I ended my Friday by visiting the house of NICOLAS FLAMEL. If you are not a Harry Potter fan, you will not understand why I was so thrilled. But if you are a fan, you know why. Hint: Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone. Another Hint: Harry Potter & the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone, first book.
Get it? I'm glad you did.
I hope you really didn't think I would stop blogging, did you? Goodness there's so much to write about, so I'll do my best.
Friday: hmm, what I do Friday? Ah, here we go. I went for a quick visit (quick because I will come back to spend more time) at the Memorial de la Shoah, the Holocaust Memorial Museum here in Paris. What is incredible about the Museum is the amount of documents and written sources it has. Unbelievable.
I went there because the Museum has an exhibit on the writer Irene Nemirovsky. She was Russian born, but her family came to Paris. While Jewish, she, like many upper-class Jews, assimilated into French society. She was an acclaimed author; her works today are a joy to read. The book I just finished that she's very famous for, is titled "Suite Francaise." Besides being an incredibly written book, it's incredible because it is unfinished. Nemirovsky was arrested and deported to Auschwitz in 1942. Her husband would follow.
Intense? You bet; you saw photographs, her diploma from the Sorbonne, her belongings, manuscripts, newspaper clippings, everything under the sun! It was incredible!
What was very sobering and moving though was the crypt. You enter a giant room, and in front of you, is a grave. It is a giant black Star of David, and within this star are ashes of Holocaust victims, and earth from Jerusalem. On the wall is a passage from the Book of Lamentations, to the effect of, "See my sons and daughters, killed by the enemy's hands."
But what also fueled my emotions was this rude comment left in the guestbook by an American visitor. She was so appalled by the use of French in the museum and thought more English should be used.
IT'S A MUSEUM... IN FRANCE. And if she had good eyesight, everything had translations. The Irene Nemirovsky exhibit was all in French, but it's a temporary exhibit. Why waist time and money making translations on something that won't stay?
I retorted back in the guestbook: "One doesn't need a translation of language to learn of the horrors of the Holocaust. As an American student in Paris, I look forward to my return."
Take that rude America. Who would have thought that the first moment of rudeness that happened in France came from an American, and not a French person. Whoever started that "rude Frenchmen" stereotype needs a slap in the face.
I ended my Friday by visiting the house of NICOLAS FLAMEL. If you are not a Harry Potter fan, you will not understand why I was so thrilled. But if you are a fan, you know why. Hint: Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone. Another Hint: Harry Potter & the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone, first book.
Get it? I'm glad you did.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Une grève, un américain, et H&M: Une saga
Well folks, prepare yourselves. I wasn't planning on blogging today, but this has to be written for future generations. Everything written is factual... maybe:
So, I've been in search of H&M for a few weeks now; not for anything extravagant. So, the first H&M I went to only had women's clothes. I then researched a store close-ish to class, and I was ready.
Today was (and is) a gorgeous fall day. So after class and being in the AIFS office, I took my leisurely stroll towards H&M. Now, I knew today was the start of the metro strike. Basically, metro workers and all Parisians don't want Sarkozy to raise the retirement age to 62. It's currently 60. As I was walking through the Luxembourg Gardens, admiring the beautiful trees and plants, breathing in crisp air, enjoying the warmth of the sun, I thought, "I could get used to walking all day."
Little did I know.
Upon reaching said street of H&M, I was face to face with a massive parade of angry striking Parisians, hundreds upon hundreds, singing the Marseillaise, carrying bloody spears with the heads of rich Parisians on top. Immediately I wanted to counter-protest, waving my blue flag with the golden fleur-de-lys, and shout "Vive le roi! Vive la reine! Vive les Bourbons!" Of course, I refrained as I feared for my life. If only I had a camera.
I then find H&M... CLOSED. Damn you angry Parisians!! Exhausted, I turned back, walking. I then felt one with these tired Parisians, so I thought, "I'll walk back home in solidarity!" I then witnessed a Metro stop, whose line would take me to my line. I was torn between two paths. Obviously I was bitter and in a big "F you!" to the striking Parisians, I took the Metro home... the very crowded Metro home.
So, now I'm trying to get back to room temperature, and perhaps after my endless amounts of homework, I may trudge out to the H&M on the Champs-Élysées, of course using the Metro. But we shall see.
Will the strike continue? Will I ever make it to H&M?
So, I've been in search of H&M for a few weeks now; not for anything extravagant. So, the first H&M I went to only had women's clothes. I then researched a store close-ish to class, and I was ready.
Today was (and is) a gorgeous fall day. So after class and being in the AIFS office, I took my leisurely stroll towards H&M. Now, I knew today was the start of the metro strike. Basically, metro workers and all Parisians don't want Sarkozy to raise the retirement age to 62. It's currently 60. As I was walking through the Luxembourg Gardens, admiring the beautiful trees and plants, breathing in crisp air, enjoying the warmth of the sun, I thought, "I could get used to walking all day."
Little did I know.
Upon reaching said street of H&M, I was face to face with a massive parade of angry striking Parisians, hundreds upon hundreds, singing the Marseillaise, carrying bloody spears with the heads of rich Parisians on top. Immediately I wanted to counter-protest, waving my blue flag with the golden fleur-de-lys, and shout "Vive le roi! Vive la reine! Vive les Bourbons!" Of course, I refrained as I feared for my life. If only I had a camera.
I then find H&M... CLOSED. Damn you angry Parisians!! Exhausted, I turned back, walking. I then felt one with these tired Parisians, so I thought, "I'll walk back home in solidarity!" I then witnessed a Metro stop, whose line would take me to my line. I was torn between two paths. Obviously I was bitter and in a big "F you!" to the striking Parisians, I took the Metro home... the very crowded Metro home.
So, now I'm trying to get back to room temperature, and perhaps after my endless amounts of homework, I may trudge out to the H&M on the Champs-Élysées, of course using the Metro. But we shall see.
Will the strike continue? Will I ever make it to H&M?
Monday, October 11, 2010
L'automne à Paris
Salut mes amis!
J’ai eu un merveilleux week-end ! En Paris, nous avons un temps magnifique ; c’est l’automne ! Les feuilles sont rouge, jeune, orange, etc. L’air est vif. J’aime cette saison !
Ah oui, le week-end.
Samedi, je suis allé à Notre-Dame. Je suis monté les tours de Notre-Dame ! Il était 386 marches menant au sommet de la tour! Ce que j’ai vu était magnifique : La ville de Paris, sans un nuage dans le ciel. Seul le soleil !
C’était tellement beau, tellement incroyable. J’était là, sur le sommet de Notre-Dame-de-Paris !
Le samedi soir, j'ai rencontré mes amis. Nous sommes allés a la Fête des Vendanges. C’est une fête célébrée à Montmartre. Il est très populaire ! Beaucoup de gens ! La nuit, sur les marches de la Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, nous avons vu des feux d’artifice. C’était amusant !
Le dimanche, je suis allé au Père Lachaise avec mes amies. J’ai vu Haussmann, Jim Morrison, Sieyès, Héloïse et Abélard, et Isadora Duncan. Ce cimetière est si plus beau et tranquille. Il est le meilleur droit à être pour un après-midi en Octobre.
So, for your English reading pleasure, a translation.
I had a wonderful weekend. We are having wonderful weather in Paris, it’s autumn! The leaves are red, yellow and orange, the air is crisp: I love this season!
Ah yes, the weekend.
Saturday I went to Notre Dame. I climbed the towers! It was 386 steps to the top of the tower. What I saw was beautiful: the city of Paris without a cloud in the sky, only the sun!
It was so beautiful and unbelievable. There I was, on the top of Notre Dame. Saturday night I met with some of my friends. We went to the grape harvest festival, which is celebrated in Montmartre. It is very popular! So many people! At night, on the steps of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, we saw fireworks. It was fun!
Sunday I went to the cemetery of Père Lachaise with my friends. I saw (as in the graves) of Baron Haussmann, Jim Morrison, Emanuel Sieyès, Héloïse et Abélard, et Isadora Duncan. This cemetery is so beautiful and tranquil. It is the best place to be on an afternoon in October.
Admirez les photos! See you if you spot Quasimodo!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Update & Fontainebleau
Okay, well, I had my first French class today. I just find it funny that my class is at the Irish Cultural Center, which was originally the Irish College back in the day. It's a beautiful building I think is owned by the Sorbonne, and it has a beautiful courtyard and architecture. But I find it funny, being mostly Irish, and, coming from a college who's founding nuns were mostly Irish, and Boston's Irish influence is apparent. It's like I never left MA!
My class is a mixture of students from all over the world: USA, Mexico, Sweden, Russian, China, Japan, and Thailand. It's crazy! My professor is just fabulous, it's the best word to describe her. And perhaps a bit eccentric, but she's awfully sweet. She made sure to repeat that if we needed any help or needed to ask questions, she encouraged it. That's a far cry from the stern, impersonal Sorbonne instructor I was imagining. But it's great, I think I'll do well and enjoy the class.
I'm backtracking a bit, but here is the link for the photos of the Chateau de Fontainebleau I went to on Monday. I think I enjoyed it more than Versailles, and you saw so many rooms. The forests and gardens were so peaceful, and the parks free. If a train ride didn't cost money I'd try to go every other week, it's that beautiful.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=519763&id=756660499&l=9bbdd3591b
Lastly, I want to let everyone know that I'm okay. I say this because there are terror threats going around in Europe, and yes, I did read that France arrested 12 suspects in a counterterrorism sting. Of course, I'm being as careful as possible, staying alert in public. I've seen the step up in security, so the government isn't taking any chances. I'm keeping my eyes and ears open from State Dept. messages, so I got it covered. But good thoughts and prayers are always welcome, here's hoping things settle down in the coming days.
Notre-Dame, Pere Lachaise et Jamie!
Well folks, I've been a complete idiot on posting photos.
Instead of waiting for blogger to post photos, here's that link Facebook gives you to share photos with anyone.
Here is the link for Notre-Dame:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=518767&id=756660499&l=d9c06e2b6b
And here is the link for Pere Lachaise:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=519314&id=756660499&l=9fb0aacdf6
Lastly, I have to actually put this photo up:
Instead of waiting for blogger to post photos, here's that link Facebook gives you to share photos with anyone.
Here is the link for Notre-Dame:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=518767&id=756660499&l=d9c06e2b6b
And here is the link for Pere Lachaise:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=519314&id=756660499&l=9fb0aacdf6
Lastly, I have to actually put this photo up:
Jamie & I!!
The back story is, Jamie (who graduated from Salve) was the person that got me interested in studying abroad in Paris with the AIFS program. She went in the spring semester, but she was a big help! She's in France for a month, so luckily we were able to meet up in Paris! She graciously got me lunch, and I happily got us Nutella crepes!! A kind gentleman took our photo outside Notre-Dame, a great way to spend a Sunday.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Mon Dieu Batman!
Well, it's technically Sunday morning; I'm preparing to go to Mass in almost 9 hours. It'll happen.
So, since Thursday, the day of my wonderful fashion class, I've gone on more excursions that pretty much make me love life. And for your viewing pleasure, I'll keep this post in English. (See, I even decided not to write "in English" in French. I'm so good to you people!)
Friday we first went to the Chateau of Versailles. All I can say is, what a place. I plan on going back because there's so much more I didn't get to see, but what I did get to see was astounding. This whole experience is taking me to places that I've read in so many books. So finally, instead of imagining Versailles in my head, I finally was there, standing in the Hall of Mirrors. Just enthralling.
We finished off the day visiting the village of Giverny, where painter Claude Monet lived. We explored the gardens and his house. People, I had tears in my eyes. Everywhere there were pops of color and so much life. Seeing the pond with lily pads was surreal; his house was just as wonderful. And I managed to snag a poster for only 1.50 Euro. How insane! But I would go back to Giverny, just to sit on a bench and ponder the beauty of the place.
Saturday, well technically yesterday, I felt like a native. I went to the grocery store and the pharmacy, and I think I have some of my Metro stops known hands down. That, and knowing how to fandangle the locks on the doors. I also skyped with Kasey & Sarah which made my day. Later tonight, as in hours upon hours it shall be with Mom. Dad called me when I was on the Metro; I love it when he checks up on me. Always makes me smile.
What made today super special was Nuit Blanche, literally "White Night." The whole City of Paris, from 7 PM-7 AM is alive with arts festivals. Music, dance, art and everything in between. All over there are exhibits and shows, and they're all FREE. It was a blast. We got some cheap delicious kebabs, and we lived it up in Paris. It's such a dynamic city, and at night it's the best.
We saw this one exhibition of contemporary marble sculptures lit with different kinds of light. Not only could you take pictures, but you could touch the sculptures and feel the marble. Incredible.
We followed that by going to the Pont St-Louis for the 3D Bridge exhibit. Basically, imagine a lot of pipes with cloth, and you have good rhythm music plus lights creating many shapes. Unreal.
Lastly, me and Kirstie went to see this modern dance performance called The Kiss at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts. Just imagine: Sitting in a giant foyer of a renowned art institute. And in the center, are two dancer, male and female, in everyday wear. But basically, their dance is basically them kissing, moving in slow motion, recreating famous kissing scenes painted by masters like Rodin, Koons, Picasso, Munch and more.
Even if I were allowed to take pictures, it wouldn't have done this performance justice. It was one of the most beautiful pieces of artistry I've ever seen. The dancer were focused just on each other, their energy, their fluidity, their movements. Sure, they shared some passionate kisses, but what was also beautiful was the control in their movement. From the tips of their toes to their pinkies to the movement of their hair, you felt their love, their energy. And it radiated, because other couples viewing changed their body language. You could see couples moving closer together, holding hands or holding each other. Just beautiful.
I was also thankful I stayed to see this, because Kirstie really wanted to see it, and she was so excited. It was wonderful to be with someone who loves and appreciates art, where in the form of music, fine arts & photography, or dance. She was just so happy, and I was glad we stumbled upon Place Sartre-Beauvoir too. Kirstie was thrilled again.
I promise some pictures will be up. I think tomorrow, after Mass & lunch with Jamie (woo!) I'll plop myself down and relax.
Until next time.
So, since Thursday, the day of my wonderful fashion class, I've gone on more excursions that pretty much make me love life. And for your viewing pleasure, I'll keep this post in English. (See, I even decided not to write "in English" in French. I'm so good to you people!)
Friday we first went to the Chateau of Versailles. All I can say is, what a place. I plan on going back because there's so much more I didn't get to see, but what I did get to see was astounding. This whole experience is taking me to places that I've read in so many books. So finally, instead of imagining Versailles in my head, I finally was there, standing in the Hall of Mirrors. Just enthralling.
We finished off the day visiting the village of Giverny, where painter Claude Monet lived. We explored the gardens and his house. People, I had tears in my eyes. Everywhere there were pops of color and so much life. Seeing the pond with lily pads was surreal; his house was just as wonderful. And I managed to snag a poster for only 1.50 Euro. How insane! But I would go back to Giverny, just to sit on a bench and ponder the beauty of the place.
Saturday, well technically yesterday, I felt like a native. I went to the grocery store and the pharmacy, and I think I have some of my Metro stops known hands down. That, and knowing how to fandangle the locks on the doors. I also skyped with Kasey & Sarah which made my day. Later tonight, as in hours upon hours it shall be with Mom. Dad called me when I was on the Metro; I love it when he checks up on me. Always makes me smile.
What made today super special was Nuit Blanche, literally "White Night." The whole City of Paris, from 7 PM-7 AM is alive with arts festivals. Music, dance, art and everything in between. All over there are exhibits and shows, and they're all FREE. It was a blast. We got some cheap delicious kebabs, and we lived it up in Paris. It's such a dynamic city, and at night it's the best.
We saw this one exhibition of contemporary marble sculptures lit with different kinds of light. Not only could you take pictures, but you could touch the sculptures and feel the marble. Incredible.
We followed that by going to the Pont St-Louis for the 3D Bridge exhibit. Basically, imagine a lot of pipes with cloth, and you have good rhythm music plus lights creating many shapes. Unreal.
Lastly, me and Kirstie went to see this modern dance performance called The Kiss at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts. Just imagine: Sitting in a giant foyer of a renowned art institute. And in the center, are two dancer, male and female, in everyday wear. But basically, their dance is basically them kissing, moving in slow motion, recreating famous kissing scenes painted by masters like Rodin, Koons, Picasso, Munch and more.
Even if I were allowed to take pictures, it wouldn't have done this performance justice. It was one of the most beautiful pieces of artistry I've ever seen. The dancer were focused just on each other, their energy, their fluidity, their movements. Sure, they shared some passionate kisses, but what was also beautiful was the control in their movement. From the tips of their toes to their pinkies to the movement of their hair, you felt their love, their energy. And it radiated, because other couples viewing changed their body language. You could see couples moving closer together, holding hands or holding each other. Just beautiful.
I was also thankful I stayed to see this, because Kirstie really wanted to see it, and she was so excited. It was wonderful to be with someone who loves and appreciates art, where in the form of music, fine arts & photography, or dance. She was just so happy, and I was glad we stumbled upon Place Sartre-Beauvoir too. Kirstie was thrilled again.
I promise some pictures will be up. I think tomorrow, after Mass & lunch with Jamie (woo!) I'll plop myself down and relax.
Until next time.
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