Tall, iron gates- a capsizing presence. Dirt lined by fresh grass infected by deep red flowers. Paths in every direction, people humming in every direction, wind blowing in every direction. In the center of the park, sat on the ground, eyes open, encircled by life. My left Symmetric line of trees bordering a common … Continue reading Views from Paris (Jardin du Luxembourg)
Cigarettes and Napoleon
Bonjour mes amis! Writing after a full 6 days living in (and loving) Paris. The first 8 days of our program includes touring and experiencing the City of Lights, mainly because the French Revolution typifies the time period of our class (the “Age of Revolution” 1789-1848). Paris, with its bustling sidewalks, endless cafes, and (confirmed: … Continue reading Cigarettes and Napoleon
Strut like you mean it!
When I decided to come to Spain, I made a list of things I HAD to try while I was here. Everyone who knows me, knows that I am a planner and that I like lists so this was no different. The list included: 1) Learn how to speak Spanish (it's a work in progress … Continue reading Strut like you mean it!
The 411 on the Taj Mahal.
As I left you last week, our group was about to embark to Agra to see one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. Although there have been a myriad of events since that day, I thought you may enjoy hearing a rundown of our visit, and what to know if you … Continue reading The 411 on the Taj Mahal.
Reunion in Burgundy
This past weekend was a long one for all Pau residents -- most get the day off for the 14th of July! It was especially long for me, as Thursday morning the Tour de France took off from Pau, so we got the day off to enjoy the lively departure. Despite the high energy and … Continue reading Reunion in Burgundy
Capoeira Culture
On Thursday, all of the students had a planned activity to learn capoeira, a Brazilian dance slash fight slash game. With master Feijão (bean) we learned some of the basic moves that are used in capoeira as well as the instrument that is played to keep the rhythm for the capoeiristas. Everyone obviously has a good … Continue reading Capoeira Culture
Ibiza
One of the rare, beautiful things in life is when one can experience, see, or truly live their life. Experiencing just one is a gift. How often are you in a moment of your life when you are truly experiencing what it is to live? How often do you physically see life vivid before you? … Continue reading Ibiza
New Zealand, Week 4: the Spirit World, the Shire, and Coming Home
There's so much reflecting to do on the past month we've spent abroad--only a fraction of which I feel I can express with due justice this post--but first, some lovely views while hiking through the Mount Maunganui Reserve-- https://flic.kr/p/WGuJQM https://flic.kr/p/WruPVo https://flic.kr/p/VsY3nX While in the North Island, we spent several afternoons weeding, potting plants, and planting … Continue reading New Zealand, Week 4: the Spirit World, the Shire, and Coming Home
[Don’t] Stop this Train.
Tamil Lesson #2: Nandri --> "Thank You" Cultural Lesson #2: Security lines at airports are gendered. One week down, and apparently another week down too. You know time is a funny thing here. We go so fast during the day that it feels we are rushing through our program; on the other hand, we're only … Continue reading [Don’t] Stop this Train.
Chained to my Workbook
Learning a new language is harder than it seems. I’m just putting the concept out there to make sure that anyone who wants to study abroad realizes what a study abroad really entails. Having been a heritage speaker of portuguese, I thought that it would be simpler to obtain skills in formal portuguese, but there … Continue reading Chained to my Workbook
