Today I got my haircut since my hair was a little longer than I liked it. Rose and I walked to the hairdressers. We walked backed and around 12:00PM Caro, Gab, Rose, and I all went to Granpere and Mamy's apartment to have lunch. I was really happy to go since Fred and Flo were there.
For lunch there was me, Gab, Rose, Caro, Fred, Grandpere, and Mamy. For dessert, Flo joined us. It was lots of fun because we talked a lot and joked around. We all sat around and chatted some more while Rose and I looked at old albums. After the albums, I took some pictures and Caro took pictures of me and Rose.
After we were done with pictures, we all said are good-byes since Grandpere and Mamy were leaving to go somewhere and I wouldn't get to see them again when I got back. Also, I wasn't going to see Fred. We had to leave quickly since Rose and I had to go back into Lille to get a few things. We got home, went to Lille, and got back in less than 2 hours. Now, everybody is packing and getting their stuff together for the trip. Tomorrow we are leaving at 5:45AM. The trip is going to take about 9 hours to get to the house we are staying at.
I'm not sure yet if I will have internet connection over there so I might not be able to update my blog daily. If I don't post anything, then do not be alarmed! I just don't have connection!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Back to Lille...
This morning I woke up at 6:30AM so Sean, Clarisse and I would be out the door by 7:20AM. Our plan was for Clarisse and Sean to take me to le Gare de Nord so I could get my train ticket. We got to the train station around 8:10AM. The departure I chose was 8:58AM so I didn't have to wait very long. Once I found where I was going to stay and wait, I said good-bye to Sean and Clarisse. They then left for the airport since Sean had to be checked in and through security by 10:00AM.
While I waited, I read my book for school. I kept checking the boards to see if the platform number for my train was going to show up. Around 8:45AM, there was an announcement that said my train was going to be moved up to 9:20AM. I wasn't too happy but what was I going to do. So I waited and read my book a little more. Right at 9:20AM, another announcement said that my train was going to be moved up to 9:40AM. Now, I was just mad because it kept changing and I never thought it would come.
When the trian finally came, I got on and found my seat. I left Paris around 9:47AM and arrived in Lille around 10:50AM. Rose was waiting for me at the station. Since she originally though my train was going to arrive at 10:00AM, she waited for me for 50 minutes. OOPS! I arrived at the house and unpacked. Right after I unpacked, we went to the bank and to the optician to fix my sunglasses.
We went home to have lunch and after lunch we went straight out to go see Florence and her new house. Mamy was there when we arrived. It was a very nice house except it was in the middle of being redecorated. The plans she had for the house are going to look great. After Florence's, we left, made an appointment at the hairdressers, and then went home. We all grabbed our money and left to go see a movie. The movie we chose was the new "Wanted" movie with Angelina Jolie and Morgan Freeman. It was a really good movie.
After the movie, we left to go home and had dinner. At dinner there was Christophe, Caroline, Rose, Gab, Sabestian (Christophe's nephew) and me. We had crepes with egg, cheese, and ham. It was delicious. Now Rose, Gab, and I are watching "Amelie" which is actually a good movie.
While I waited, I read my book for school. I kept checking the boards to see if the platform number for my train was going to show up. Around 8:45AM, there was an announcement that said my train was going to be moved up to 9:20AM. I wasn't too happy but what was I going to do. So I waited and read my book a little more. Right at 9:20AM, another announcement said that my train was going to be moved up to 9:40AM. Now, I was just mad because it kept changing and I never thought it would come.
When the trian finally came, I got on and found my seat. I left Paris around 9:47AM and arrived in Lille around 10:50AM. Rose was waiting for me at the station. Since she originally though my train was going to arrive at 10:00AM, she waited for me for 50 minutes. OOPS! I arrived at the house and unpacked. Right after I unpacked, we went to the bank and to the optician to fix my sunglasses.
We went home to have lunch and after lunch we went straight out to go see Florence and her new house. Mamy was there when we arrived. It was a very nice house except it was in the middle of being redecorated. The plans she had for the house are going to look great. After Florence's, we left, made an appointment at the hairdressers, and then went home. We all grabbed our money and left to go see a movie. The movie we chose was the new "Wanted" movie with Angelina Jolie and Morgan Freeman. It was a really good movie.
After the movie, we left to go home and had dinner. At dinner there was Christophe, Caroline, Rose, Gab, Sabestian (Christophe's nephew) and me. We had crepes with egg, cheese, and ham. It was delicious. Now Rose, Gab, and I are watching "Amelie" which is actually a good movie.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
L'Arc de Triomphe
Today Sean and I woke up around 10:45AM and got ready. We left and began first by going to l'Arc de Triomphe. On the way to l'Arc we passed by the French embassy or something of that sort. While we passed we saw tons of cops and news crews everywhere. We found out that the reason for all of this was because le Ministère de l'Intérieur was arriving. We decided not to stay and watch since we were already on our way to l'Arc. Once we arrived to l'Arc we bought tickets. You had to be 18 or older to get on. If you were younger than 18 you would have to be accompanied by an adult, but I just said I was 18 so Sean and I got our tickets. We got to climb to the very top which was really cool. I got to take lots of really nice pictures and also got to see ALL of Paris. I even got to take some pictures through the telescope that they had. I put some change to take a look through the telescope, located what I wanted to capture, put my camera up to the eye hole, and snapped the picture.
After l'Arc de Triomphe, Sean and I decided to go to la Tour Eiffel to get some more pictures and just see it one last time. We took many pictures and walked around for quite awhile. When we were done we headed home. At home, we dropped off our stuff we bought while in Paris and then went right back out to go rent a couple movies. Now Sean and I are packing and later at 6:45PM we are going to meet Clarisse at her work. We are going to have a picnic near the Seine River with some of her friends. Tomorrow, home for Sean and Lille for me.
After l'Arc de Triomphe, Sean and I decided to go to la Tour Eiffel to get some more pictures and just see it one last time. We took many pictures and walked around for quite awhile. When we were done we headed home. At home, we dropped off our stuff we bought while in Paris and then went right back out to go rent a couple movies. Now Sean and I are packing and later at 6:45PM we are going to meet Clarisse at her work. We are going to have a picnic near the Seine River with some of her friends. Tomorrow, home for Sean and Lille for me.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Back in Paris
So I had a stressful night/morning.
After talking with Jenny & Kevin, I decided it was late so I went to my room to go finish packing and get to bed. Once I had finished packing I checked if I had the tickets in my backpack. At dinner that night, I told Françoise that the train to Paris was leaving at 11:58AM. Fortunently, when I checked the tickets right before bed, I read that the train was actually at 9:43AM! So since I didn't have an alarm and Sean unfortunently didn't have his cell phone (which he uses as an alarm), I decided to stay up the entire night so at 8:00AM I would be able to tell Françoise and also wake up Sean. At around 5:00AM I was searching on my iPod and saw that I could set an alarm to go off and the alarm would still make a noise if the iPod was in sleep mode. I set 3 alarms on my iPod so I was sure to wake up at 8:00AM in case I didn't wake up to the previous ones. Right before bed, I put my sound to full blast so that I would wake up to the music.
Right at 8:00AM, I jumped out of my bed and ran down the stairs to go tell Françoise that are train left at 9:43AM. She woke up Mathieu since he was taking us to the station. Sean and I got ready and brought our stuff downstairs right away. I had said my good-byes to Marc the night before since he left early this morning for work. I said good-bye to Géraldine and Françoise and I thanked her so much for everything she had done.
Mathieu had dropped us off and I waited for the train. Once I got in the train, I slept the entire way since I was exhausted. Once we arrived to Paris, Sean and I too the metro to Clarisse's work since she had the key. Sean stayed in the metro station with the bags since we didn't want to have to take the bags everywhere. I found Clarisse's work but unfortunently she had just left for lunch. I called her and she ran over from the market to hand me the key.
I rejoined Sean at the station and we headed for Clarisse's apartment. Once we had everything into the room and we had relaxed a little, and then Sean and I left for Champs Elyées. We looked at stores and thought about what we could do tomorrow. We decided on going to the top of l'Arc de Triomphe. After Champs Elyées, we went home and met up with Clarisse and ate dinner. Now Sean and I are going to go get Matrix 3 since we have watched the first 2 so far...in English.
After talking with Jenny & Kevin, I decided it was late so I went to my room to go finish packing and get to bed. Once I had finished packing I checked if I had the tickets in my backpack. At dinner that night, I told Françoise that the train to Paris was leaving at 11:58AM. Fortunently, when I checked the tickets right before bed, I read that the train was actually at 9:43AM! So since I didn't have an alarm and Sean unfortunently didn't have his cell phone (which he uses as an alarm), I decided to stay up the entire night so at 8:00AM I would be able to tell Françoise and also wake up Sean. At around 5:00AM I was searching on my iPod and saw that I could set an alarm to go off and the alarm would still make a noise if the iPod was in sleep mode. I set 3 alarms on my iPod so I was sure to wake up at 8:00AM in case I didn't wake up to the previous ones. Right before bed, I put my sound to full blast so that I would wake up to the music.
Right at 8:00AM, I jumped out of my bed and ran down the stairs to go tell Françoise that are train left at 9:43AM. She woke up Mathieu since he was taking us to the station. Sean and I got ready and brought our stuff downstairs right away. I had said my good-byes to Marc the night before since he left early this morning for work. I said good-bye to Géraldine and Françoise and I thanked her so much for everything she had done.
Mathieu had dropped us off and I waited for the train. Once I got in the train, I slept the entire way since I was exhausted. Once we arrived to Paris, Sean and I too the metro to Clarisse's work since she had the key. Sean stayed in the metro station with the bags since we didn't want to have to take the bags everywhere. I found Clarisse's work but unfortunently she had just left for lunch. I called her and she ran over from the market to hand me the key.
I rejoined Sean at the station and we headed for Clarisse's apartment. Once we had everything into the room and we had relaxed a little, and then Sean and I left for Champs Elyées. We looked at stores and thought about what we could do tomorrow. We decided on going to the top of l'Arc de Triomphe. After Champs Elyées, we went home and met up with Clarisse and ate dinner. Now Sean and I are going to go get Matrix 3 since we have watched the first 2 so far...in English.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Camus
This morning everybody woke up around the same time. I got ready and ate breakfast. Mamy showed me some albums of the Salomon ancestry and some of her ancestry. It was interesting to know where I came from.
After the albums, Sean, Malena, Chloe, Julia, and I went out to Saint Remy. We parked and walked around. We took lots of pictures of the scenery, especially on the drive to Saint Remy and on the drive back home. At Saint Remy we stopped at a little café to eat. I had steak frites and I got to try some escargot that Malena chose from the menu. It was actually very good until I thought about what I was chewing. Bad choice on my part. But none the less,it was tasty.
We then continued around and saw le Chateau des Baux. It was very neat. Since most of us were very tired, we decided to go home. Before we went home though, we stopped by the Lourmain cemetary to go see Albert Camus' grave. It was tough to read the tombstone since it was sort of old and faded away. We then headed home. Sean and I packed once we got home since Geraldine was coming to see Mamy with her husband Mathieu. Since Geraldine wanted to go see Mamy and we were going back to Costefrede, Geraldine and Mathieu just brought us back home. I was kind of bummed to leave so soon since I know I won't get to see Mamy, Malena, Julia, and Chloe again for quite a while.
Now I'm back at Costefrede and Sean and I are going to play some pétanque!
After the albums, Sean, Malena, Chloe, Julia, and I went out to Saint Remy. We parked and walked around. We took lots of pictures of the scenery, especially on the drive to Saint Remy and on the drive back home. At Saint Remy we stopped at a little café to eat. I had steak frites and I got to try some escargot that Malena chose from the menu. It was actually very good until I thought about what I was chewing. Bad choice on my part. But none the less,it was tasty.
We then continued around and saw le Chateau des Baux. It was very neat. Since most of us were very tired, we decided to go home. Before we went home though, we stopped by the Lourmain cemetary to go see Albert Camus' grave. It was tough to read the tombstone since it was sort of old and faded away. We then headed home. Sean and I packed once we got home since Geraldine was coming to see Mamy with her husband Mathieu. Since Geraldine wanted to go see Mamy and we were going back to Costefrede, Geraldine and Mathieu just brought us back home. I was kind of bummed to leave so soon since I know I won't get to see Mamy, Malena, Julia, and Chloe again for quite a while.
Now I'm back at Costefrede and Sean and I are going to play some pétanque!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Lavender In the Air
Once again, we woke up at 11:00PM today. I got ready and went downstairs. A few hours later, some friends of Malena came to have lunch with their 2 kids that are around Julia's and Chloe's age. We had lunch, cheese, dessert, and then talked a little. After lunch, we all went swimming. It was lots of fun.
Then, everybody left so Malena, Chloe, Julia, Sean, and I all left to walk around the village a little. We went to the little toy shop that I remembered when I was very little. I can't believe how much I still love that little toy shop. It's just so fantastic. After the toy shop, we got into the car and left for a little road trip around random little villages around 4:30PM. We took many picture which will be posted later. We stopped in this one little village that had red clay. It was very interesting. After looking around, we had some ice cream. We then left and continued on our road trip. We happened to see lavender fields so we stopped by, picked some since they're were abandoned, and took pictures. It was lots of fun. We continued and got sort of lost on the road in this valley. It was nice, but extremely long! We finally got back to Lourmarin around 8:30PM.
Malena dropped me and Sean off in front of this little pizza restaurant to get pizza but they had too many people at the restaurant so we couldn't order any takeout. What stunk even more was that we had tried to order from this other pizza shop but their pizza oven was broken. So for dinner we ended up having frozen pizza and pasta. Now the girls are in bed and I'm about to crash as well.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
The Clock Is Ticking
The sun was once again, slowly roasting me in its rays. I woke up and had a quick brunch. Then right away, Marc took us to Alan & Veronique's house so Sean and I could go bowling with Alan's nephew, Dorian. Sean, Carla, Dorian, and I all waited at the bus stop for about an hour. We finally arrived at Aix en Provence and began walking to the bowling alley. On the way there we met up with some of Dorian's friends. I was the oldest one there since everybody was either 16 or 15. The bowling was lots of fun.
After the bowling we went to go play some air hockey. Then we left the bowling alley to go to the long road that is in the center of Aix en Provence. We walked along the road and stopped by this little restaurant to get some drinks. We then all got some ice cream which was absolutely delicious. After the ice cream. we all walked around some more and went to this electronic superstore. Everybody just browsed around and then left. It took another hour to get onto the bus. I don't understand why it's took so long. I was sort of anxious since I was supposed to be home around 6:45PM and it was 6:35PM when we got into the bus. We arrived back at Alan & Veronique's house and Alan took us back home. Since I wasn't going to see them again before I left, I gave them all big hugs and said thank you very much for everything.
We arrived home and as soon as I arrived home, Marc drove us to Lourmarin since I was staying the night at Mamy's house. We left from la Domaine de Costefrede around 7:45PM and I was supposed to be at the house at 7:00PM! When we arrived there at 8:00PM, I talked some with Malena, Chloe, and Julia. The girls were going to bed so I read them a book. After they fell asleep and Mamy had arrived from church so she could keep an eye on the girls, we went to dinner at this very nice little restaurant. We met Malena's friend, Marie Ange, there for dinner. Sean and I both had 2 egg, ham, & cheese crepes which were delicious. We talked for about 2 hours and then headed home.
Now, I'm the only one awake.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Freakin' Parisian Drivers!
Hot, hot, hot! Today Sean and I went to the 2008 Coupe Du Monde De Beach Soccer De La Fifa in Marseille. It was awesome! Bénedicte picked us up and took us across the street from where it was being held around 13:10PM. She went to the Beach Volley Tournament while we watched Beach Soccer so it worked out perfectly. I waited in line for tickets as soon as I could since I wasn't sure if I was going to get seats. After about 10 minutes, Sean and I got tickets.
We first went to the beach and stuck our feet in the water. It was freezing cold. I couldn't believe how people could swim in that water. Once we were done with the frigid water, I decided it was time to go to get our seats since the game was starting soon. Once I sat down, the players began to warm up. The game was between Russia & Argentina. At the end of the game Argentina won 5-3. 30 minutes later it was Mexico & Japan. It was another amazing game. Mexico won 4-3.
After the games around 18:00PM, we went to meet up with Bénedicte. On the way home, one the autoroutes was closed down due to a brush fire. We went on another autoroute and we got home quickly. Marc met us close by the house so Bénedicte didn't have to drive us all the way home. On the way back to the house with Marc, we were driving behind this car that was driving very slowly. Marc said something about how they were slow and drove like an old Parisian. We then passed them. When we had arrived we met the friends of Marc and Françoise who were staying with their kids. Since the house was full this weekend, Sean and I have to stay in the other house where Catherine, Françoise's sister, lives. When we were on our way to the front door, I saw Marc chatting with these people. When he came back I told him that those were the people that were driving so slow! And he says that he recognized the car too! What luck!
We took showers and once Sean and I were ready, everybody had dinner. Before dinner, actually, Sean and I played football with the 15 year old boy named Antoine. Then, we had dinner. There was Marc, Françoise, Sophie, Antione, Catherine (youngest daughter of friends), Marine (middle daughter of friends), and Sean. It was very good. Then, I came here to write my story.
We first went to the beach and stuck our feet in the water. It was freezing cold. I couldn't believe how people could swim in that water. Once we were done with the frigid water, I decided it was time to go to get our seats since the game was starting soon. Once I sat down, the players began to warm up. The game was between Russia & Argentina. At the end of the game Argentina won 5-3. 30 minutes later it was Mexico & Japan. It was another amazing game. Mexico won 4-3.
After the games around 18:00PM, we went to meet up with Bénedicte. On the way home, one the autoroutes was closed down due to a brush fire. We went on another autoroute and we got home quickly. Marc met us close by the house so Bénedicte didn't have to drive us all the way home. On the way back to the house with Marc, we were driving behind this car that was driving very slowly. Marc said something about how they were slow and drove like an old Parisian. We then passed them. When we had arrived we met the friends of Marc and Françoise who were staying with their kids. Since the house was full this weekend, Sean and I have to stay in the other house where Catherine, Françoise's sister, lives. When we were on our way to the front door, I saw Marc chatting with these people. When he came back I told him that those were the people that were driving so slow! And he says that he recognized the car too! What luck!
We took showers and once Sean and I were ready, everybody had dinner. Before dinner, actually, Sean and I played football with the 15 year old boy named Antoine. Then, we had dinner. There was Marc, Françoise, Sophie, Antione, Catherine (youngest daughter of friends), Marine (middle daughter of friends), and Sean. It was very good. Then, I came here to write my story.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Have You Ever Heard a Baby Snore?
Well I have! Today, early in the morning, we left for Aix en Provence. It was Françoise, Marine, Sean, and I. Françoise dropped off Sean and I north of the center of the village. We walked around for about an hour and a half looking around at the market and going to random little stores. We met up with Françoise and Marine around 1:00PM so we could grab some food before we went to Marseille. We stopped in a little Italian restaurant. We had, of course, pizza but it was very delicious.
After lunch, we left for Marseille. In the very first minutes we were in the car, Marine fell asleep and, like the title says, she snored. It was very funny to listen to because she snored so loud! Once we arrived in Marsaille around 3:00PM, I couldn't believe how beautiful it was. Even though the weather wasn't the nicest, the city was very nice. Françoise dropped Sean and I off at the OM Bar since the OM Boutique wasn't too far away. I went to the OM Boutique and looked around, especially at the jerseys since they are the 08/09 model. They're very nice! I then walked around some more and went to the other OM store where I finally got the home kit and the away shorts. Then, I went to the Nike store and looked at the new Nike club jerseys for the 08/09 season coming up and I also went to the Adidas store as well. Sean and I saw some stuff we liked but didn't buy anything.
When Sean and I got tired of walking around, since we couldn't do too much except go to stores, we headed for the OM Bar since thats's where we were meeting back up. Around 6:45PM Françoise came to pick us up and we headed home since we were all very tired.
Tomorrow we are going to the 2008 Coupe Du Monde De Beach Soccer De La Fifa in Marseille. We are getting picked up by Bénedicte in the morning and will be dropped off at the stadium. I will get to watch Russia vs. Argentina, Mexico vs. Japan, United Arab Emirates vs. Cameroon, and Brasil vs. Spain. Then, Marc will pick us up to take us home. Can't wait!
After lunch, we left for Marseille. In the very first minutes we were in the car, Marine fell asleep and, like the title says, she snored. It was very funny to listen to because she snored so loud! Once we arrived in Marsaille around 3:00PM, I couldn't believe how beautiful it was. Even though the weather wasn't the nicest, the city was very nice. Françoise dropped Sean and I off at the OM Bar since the OM Boutique wasn't too far away. I went to the OM Boutique and looked around, especially at the jerseys since they are the 08/09 model. They're very nice! I then walked around some more and went to the other OM store where I finally got the home kit and the away shorts. Then, I went to the Nike store and looked at the new Nike club jerseys for the 08/09 season coming up and I also went to the Adidas store as well. Sean and I saw some stuff we liked but didn't buy anything.
When Sean and I got tired of walking around, since we couldn't do too much except go to stores, we headed for the OM Bar since thats's where we were meeting back up. Around 6:45PM Françoise came to pick us up and we headed home since we were all very tired.
Tomorrow we are going to the 2008 Coupe Du Monde De Beach Soccer De La Fifa in Marseille. We are getting picked up by Bénedicte in the morning and will be dropped off at the stadium. I will get to watch Russia vs. Argentina, Mexico vs. Japan, United Arab Emirates vs. Cameroon, and Brasil vs. Spain. Then, Marc will pick us up to take us home. Can't wait!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
12:00PM
12:00PM on the dot. We can't seem to wake up early enoigh. Sean and I got ready for the day. The weather wasn't too nice, but still not that hot outside. We had lunch with Françoise and Marine. It was leftovers from Marc's birthday. It was very good. After lunch we hung around and finished our movie, Pearl Harbor, that we had begun the night before.
Around 4:00PM Françoise took us to Metro, a Costco of France, to get candies and other necessities. We then went to Decathalon which is a large department store for sports and outdoor activities. They also have a gymnasium to play badminton and work out in. It's very cool. After those 2 stores, we all went to go see Matteo and Kharla (Matteo's older sister who just turned 12). We gave them some candies that we had gotten at Metro. Unfortunently for Matteo, he had gotten stung on the forearm by a bee and he's a little allergic so his arm swole up! I hope the candies will make it all better.
After the candy drop-off service, we all went home. I went for a swim and played, or should I say "owned", at pétanque. Then after swimming and pétanque, Françoise's neice, Clara, invited us for dinner. Since Françoise's sister, Catherine, was in Marseille for the night, Clara had dinner at her mother's house so for dinner we walked across front to their deck to eat dinner. It was very good food. After about 3 hours we went home and now, I'm here.
Around 4:00PM Françoise took us to Metro, a Costco of France, to get candies and other necessities. We then went to Decathalon which is a large department store for sports and outdoor activities. They also have a gymnasium to play badminton and work out in. It's very cool. After those 2 stores, we all went to go see Matteo and Kharla (Matteo's older sister who just turned 12). We gave them some candies that we had gotten at Metro. Unfortunently for Matteo, he had gotten stung on the forearm by a bee and he's a little allergic so his arm swole up! I hope the candies will make it all better.
After the candy drop-off service, we all went home. I went for a swim and played, or should I say "owned", at pétanque. Then after swimming and pétanque, Françoise's neice, Clara, invited us for dinner. Since Françoise's sister, Catherine, was in Marseille for the night, Clara had dinner at her mother's house so for dinner we walked across front to their deck to eat dinner. It was very good food. After about 3 hours we went home and now, I'm here.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
It's a Beautiful Morning
Like the title says, this morning was very beautiful. I woke up and had breakfast outside. Sean and I sat around doing random things for most of the day I had lunch with Marc, Françoise, Sean, and Marine (Françoise's grand-daughter). It was very good. Then after lunch, Sean and I played pétanque and badminton. I won in pétanque and Sean won in badminton. After the games, Marc offered to take Sean and I to the grocery store and then go see Lourmarin and other little villages around.
Around 5, Marc, Sean, and I went to the grocery store. When we were at the checkout when we realized we had forgotten bags! In France, as most of you know, there are no more plastic grocery bags for the customers. The customers must bring their own "green sacks". Since we didn't have any, we had to carry all of our stuff to the car and lay it out in the trunk. Sean had things sticking out of his pockets and I was crushing the delicious pastries. What a shame.
After returning to the house to despose of our clutter in the trunk, we set off for the small villages. The ride through the villages was fantastic. I enjoyed the drive very much since I got to see so much of all these little villages that were so pretty. We drove through Cadenet, Lourmarin, Cucuron, and Ansouis, on accident. But no matter, the drive was fantastic like I said and it was just what I wanted to do on a such a gorgeous day. The only trouble we had was we needed gas. The first service station we stopped at, the card machine didn't work, and the second service station, the same problem, except this time we went to go get cash.
After the drive we went home and Sean and I played some more pétanque. The game is so addictive! I then played with Marine a little before dinner. After dinner, Sean and I had another game of pétanque. All I'm going to say is, "France wins."
The lessons of the day are: never forget your bags to the super market, and always have emergency gas cashand your travels will be problem-free!
Around 5, Marc, Sean, and I went to the grocery store. When we were at the checkout when we realized we had forgotten bags! In France, as most of you know, there are no more plastic grocery bags for the customers. The customers must bring their own "green sacks". Since we didn't have any, we had to carry all of our stuff to the car and lay it out in the trunk. Sean had things sticking out of his pockets and I was crushing the delicious pastries. What a shame.
After returning to the house to despose of our clutter in the trunk, we set off for the small villages. The ride through the villages was fantastic. I enjoyed the drive very much since I got to see so much of all these little villages that were so pretty. We drove through Cadenet, Lourmarin, Cucuron, and Ansouis, on accident. But no matter, the drive was fantastic like I said and it was just what I wanted to do on a such a gorgeous day. The only trouble we had was we needed gas. The first service station we stopped at, the card machine didn't work, and the second service station, the same problem, except this time we went to go get cash.
After the drive we went home and Sean and I played some more pétanque. The game is so addictive! I then played with Marine a little before dinner. After dinner, Sean and I had another game of pétanque. All I'm going to say is, "France wins."
The lessons of the day are: never forget your bags to the super market, and always have emergency gas cashand your travels will be problem-free!
Monday, July 14, 2008
Joyeux Anniversaire
So today I woke up at 12:00PM. I just couldn't wake up. Once I got ready, I went downstairs to say hello to everybody. Sophie (Françoise's daughter) was their with her daughter and her husband, Bénoit. They were very nice. Then Alan and his family came a litte later. There was 16 people in all eating lunch. The lunch was curry and then 2 cakes to celebrate Marc's birthday and Alan's daughter, Karla's, birthday. Once we were done with lunch, everybody left and went to go to the pool.
Right before I went to the pool, Veronique, Alan's wife, and I went to go pick up Matteo at his tennis practice. Once we arrived back at the house, there were many people swimming, tanning, and playing pétanque. Me, Alan, and Jacque (Friend of the family) made a team and played against,Marc, Bénoit (later replaced by Lorran), and another friend of the family. We played in triples. At first I didn't do too well but I then got the hang of it. At the end, my team had won 2 games out of 3. After pétanque, everybody began to slowly leave. I said good-bye to everybody. I'm sort of dissapointed that everyone is leaving since it was so much fun to play pétanque with them and to chat with them.
Now that everybody is gone, everyone is relaxing and enjoying the rest of the day. This week, I'm going to Marseille! I cannot wait.
Right before I went to the pool, Veronique, Alan's wife, and I went to go pick up Matteo at his tennis practice. Once we arrived back at the house, there were many people swimming, tanning, and playing pétanque. Me, Alan, and Jacque (Friend of the family) made a team and played against,Marc, Bénoit (later replaced by Lorran), and another friend of the family. We played in triples. At first I didn't do too well but I then got the hang of it. At the end, my team had won 2 games out of 3. After pétanque, everybody began to slowly leave. I said good-bye to everybody. I'm sort of dissapointed that everyone is leaving since it was so much fun to play pétanque with them and to chat with them.
Now that everybody is gone, everyone is relaxing and enjoying the rest of the day. This week, I'm going to Marseille! I cannot wait.
Hot Brass
DIMANCHE: 13 Juillet
Today was a very relaxed day. Sean and I woke up around 11:00AM and had lunch with Marc, Françoise, Lorran and his wife Sylvie (Lorran is one of Françoise's twins). It was nice to talk to them. After lunch we all went to the pool for a long time. After the pool, Marc took me and Sean to the top of a hill where the village of Puy St. Reparade used to be before it was relocated on the bottom of the hill. It was absolutely beautiful. I took some pictures of the view and we kept going. Before we got too far, the fire fighters that keep an eye on the local forrest told us we had to go down. If it were the police that had caught us we would of been fined 135€ per person but luckily it was the fire fighters that had caught us.
After going back home, Sean and I got ready since Alan had called us to see if we wanted to go eat with his family and friends. We got ready and around 8:00PM Alan and his wife came to pick me and Sean up along with Alan's nephew. Alan was in his Porsche GT3 and on the way to the restaurant I got to ride in it and on the way back Sean got to ride in it. It was a really sweet car.
At the restaurant, Hot Brass, Sean and I played cards with the mother. We then had pizza as an appetizer and then we had veal with pasta which was delicious. The restaurant we went to was half restaurant and half club. The club was connected to the restaurant yet lots of people still danced at the restaurant since it is an outside restaurant with a bar and there was some music playing. What was also cool was that there was a pool in the center of the restaurant for the customers, even though nobody swam. After dessert, we all left around 12:45AM since it was very late. We went home and I said "Happy Birthday!" to Marc when I arrived since it was technically the 14th of July. Then, I passed out.
Today was a very relaxed day. Sean and I woke up around 11:00AM and had lunch with Marc, Françoise, Lorran and his wife Sylvie (Lorran is one of Françoise's twins). It was nice to talk to them. After lunch we all went to the pool for a long time. After the pool, Marc took me and Sean to the top of a hill where the village of Puy St. Reparade used to be before it was relocated on the bottom of the hill. It was absolutely beautiful. I took some pictures of the view and we kept going. Before we got too far, the fire fighters that keep an eye on the local forrest told us we had to go down. If it were the police that had caught us we would of been fined 135€ per person but luckily it was the fire fighters that had caught us.
After going back home, Sean and I got ready since Alan had called us to see if we wanted to go eat with his family and friends. We got ready and around 8:00PM Alan and his wife came to pick me and Sean up along with Alan's nephew. Alan was in his Porsche GT3 and on the way to the restaurant I got to ride in it and on the way back Sean got to ride in it. It was a really sweet car.
At the restaurant, Hot Brass, Sean and I played cards with the mother. We then had pizza as an appetizer and then we had veal with pasta which was delicious. The restaurant we went to was half restaurant and half club. The club was connected to the restaurant yet lots of people still danced at the restaurant since it is an outside restaurant with a bar and there was some music playing. What was also cool was that there was a pool in the center of the restaurant for the customers, even though nobody swam. After dessert, we all left around 12:45AM since it was very late. We went home and I said "Happy Birthday!" to Marc when I arrived since it was technically the 14th of July. Then, I passed out.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Zizou is back...
SAMEDI: 12 Juillet
Today I had to wake up early around 8:30AM so we could all go to the dealership to get the car, and then go to the market. The market had many different types of fruits & vegetables and even some fish. Marc, Françoise, Sean, and I all walked around for a little while looking a little shops and just enjoying the day. Before we left, Marc got me the L'Equipe magazine & newspaper which is really cool. While reading it I saw that France was playing today at le Stade du France! I read some more and saw that it was a game to celebrate 10 years since the 1998 Coupe de Monde Champions! It had the old team from 1998 and they were playing some fantastic older players from around the world. Françoise called Alan right away to see if we could go to his house later that night to watch the game since he would definitely be watching the game. Alan said he would be happy to have us over.
We then went home and waited for everybody to come to have lunch. The girls, Sasha & Kim came with their friend, Mathilde, and their father to eat and swim. Later on Catherine's 2 children came to swim and lay in the sun too. Sean and I swam and played some more badminton. Around 6:OOPM, Marc brought me and Sean to Alan's house.
When we got there we played football in the front yard with Matteo while his sister and mother were talking. We then got the tour of the house. Since Alan is a contracter, he built his own house. The house was extremely nice. It was very open and it is a house that seems comfortable to live in. We ordered pizza and then began to watch the anniversary game. We saw all the players walk out and the French anthem began to play. I was so excited to see this game, not only because it was the last time I would probably get to see Zizou play, but I was watching it live in France! Plus it was the anniversary game of the 1998 Coupe de Monde and it was a once-in-a-life-time game! So I was ready for the game to start after the anthem and right as the anthem was beginning and the camera was panning across the amazing players, the channel cut.
We searched for 20 minutes to find the game on another channel. I couldn't understand why they would cut the channel and neither could anybody else. Alan said that sometimes it happens because Canal + , the French satellite TV, will cut their channels at 9:00PM. I was so dissapointed! We kept eating the pizza and ended up just watching the The Transporter. After the movie Alan brought me and Sean home. On the way back to the house, Alan told us that one of his friends that were watching the game that night with us, had told Alan that his daughter was coming back from Ireland and she could show us around the town tomorrow night. He told us he would call us when he found out. Once we got home we just passed out.
Today I had to wake up early around 8:30AM so we could all go to the dealership to get the car, and then go to the market. The market had many different types of fruits & vegetables and even some fish. Marc, Françoise, Sean, and I all walked around for a little while looking a little shops and just enjoying the day. Before we left, Marc got me the L'Equipe magazine & newspaper which is really cool. While reading it I saw that France was playing today at le Stade du France! I read some more and saw that it was a game to celebrate 10 years since the 1998 Coupe de Monde Champions! It had the old team from 1998 and they were playing some fantastic older players from around the world. Françoise called Alan right away to see if we could go to his house later that night to watch the game since he would definitely be watching the game. Alan said he would be happy to have us over.
We then went home and waited for everybody to come to have lunch. The girls, Sasha & Kim came with their friend, Mathilde, and their father to eat and swim. Later on Catherine's 2 children came to swim and lay in the sun too. Sean and I swam and played some more badminton. Around 6:OOPM, Marc brought me and Sean to Alan's house.
When we got there we played football in the front yard with Matteo while his sister and mother were talking. We then got the tour of the house. Since Alan is a contracter, he built his own house. The house was extremely nice. It was very open and it is a house that seems comfortable to live in. We ordered pizza and then began to watch the anniversary game. We saw all the players walk out and the French anthem began to play. I was so excited to see this game, not only because it was the last time I would probably get to see Zizou play, but I was watching it live in France! Plus it was the anniversary game of the 1998 Coupe de Monde and it was a once-in-a-life-time game! So I was ready for the game to start after the anthem and right as the anthem was beginning and the camera was panning across the amazing players, the channel cut.
We searched for 20 minutes to find the game on another channel. I couldn't understand why they would cut the channel and neither could anybody else. Alan said that sometimes it happens because Canal + , the French satellite TV, will cut their channels at 9:00PM. I was so dissapointed! We kept eating the pizza and ended up just watching the The Transporter. After the movie Alan brought me and Sean home. On the way back to the house, Alan told us that one of his friends that were watching the game that night with us, had told Alan that his daughter was coming back from Ireland and she could show us around the town tomorrow night. He told us he would call us when he found out. Once we got home we just passed out.
Friday, July 11, 2008
45 Minutes
Today was nice. I woke up and Matteo's dad was here working on the chapel to fix the front of it. Matteo came along so he could give Sean his jersey. It's very nice! Matteo stayed with us for the day. We had lunch and then watched Click which was an O.K. movie. Then, we played football, played badminton across the pool, and swam.
After swimming we had a snack and began to play football again. About 20 minutes later, Matteo's dad was back to pick him up. This time he brought his white GT3 Porsche. It was really nice. Alan, Matteo's dad, told Sean and I that he'd take us on a ride in it another time. That should be cool! When they left, Sean, Marc, and I went for a jog around the property for 45 minutes. On our jog, I got to see all the land they have and where the vineyards are. We even jogged through the vineyards! It was very pretty, especially since it's on a mountain side. You can see all the surrounding mountains, hillsides, and little towns down below. Once we got home everybody just kind of fell down in a chair.
Tonight we are going to the classical music concert. It should be interesting. Marc said it's not normal classical music because it's modern classical music. I hope I like it. Tomorrow we are waking up early to go pick up their new car since they are trading their 2 cars for one. Then, Françoise niece, who is almost 17, is supposed to be coming to the house with either friends or family. Tomorrow should be fun.
After swimming we had a snack and began to play football again. About 20 minutes later, Matteo's dad was back to pick him up. This time he brought his white GT3 Porsche. It was really nice. Alan, Matteo's dad, told Sean and I that he'd take us on a ride in it another time. That should be cool! When they left, Sean, Marc, and I went for a jog around the property for 45 minutes. On our jog, I got to see all the land they have and where the vineyards are. We even jogged through the vineyards! It was very pretty, especially since it's on a mountain side. You can see all the surrounding mountains, hillsides, and little towns down below. Once we got home everybody just kind of fell down in a chair.
Tonight we are going to the classical music concert. It should be interesting. Marc said it's not normal classical music because it's modern classical music. I hope I like it. Tomorrow we are waking up early to go pick up their new car since they are trading their 2 cars for one. Then, Françoise niece, who is almost 17, is supposed to be coming to the house with either friends or family. Tomorrow should be fun.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Itchy day
This morning I woke up and went downstairs to eat breakfast. It was all set out for me. Once I had breakfast, Françoise and Marc arrived. I was very happy to see them! They asked me if I was doing well and if I was all settled in. After they had gotten all their bags in they went outside to eat lunch. I then joined them and talked with them for awhile. We talked about how the family is doing and what the plans are for the coming days. All I know is that it's going to be lots of fun!
After lunch, Françoise, Sean, and I went to the grocery store to get food. We got some movies for Sean and I to watch if we were ever bored. We then went home, unpacked all the food and then went to play some badminton. Don't make fun of me until you've played with Sean and I. It's intense! While were playing badminton, friends of Françoise and Marc arrived. They were a married couple with 2 kids: a girl who is 10 and a son who is 7. Sean and I talked with the father, Alan, who is obsessed with l'equipe Olympique Marseille. He has season tickets to their matches and knows everything about the team. His son, Mateo, knows even more. Mateo knows every players name and number. You give him a number, he'll tell you the player. Also, the father said he is going to give Sean an authentic keeper jersey of Marseille to Sean with a name and number which was worn by a player. I told Sean and he's looking forward to getting it!
We then had dinner with everybody including Catherine and Bénedicte, which was very nice. The mosquitoes were absolutely horrible though and they still are even though I'm indoors. It's intensely itchy! During dinner we all talked and had a really great time. Even Sean talked a little with the boy, Mateo. After dinner they all left and now Sean and I are going to watch Matrix: Reloaded since we only got to see the first one in Lille. Tomorrow I believe we are going to Aix en Provence to see a classical music concert. They said we probably wouldn't like it so they'd just let us roam around and go eat a pizza while they were at the concert but they said if we wanted to we could go with them so I think we are. I bet it'll be very cool.
After lunch, Françoise, Sean, and I went to the grocery store to get food. We got some movies for Sean and I to watch if we were ever bored. We then went home, unpacked all the food and then went to play some badminton. Don't make fun of me until you've played with Sean and I. It's intense! While were playing badminton, friends of Françoise and Marc arrived. They were a married couple with 2 kids: a girl who is 10 and a son who is 7. Sean and I talked with the father, Alan, who is obsessed with l'equipe Olympique Marseille. He has season tickets to their matches and knows everything about the team. His son, Mateo, knows even more. Mateo knows every players name and number. You give him a number, he'll tell you the player. Also, the father said he is going to give Sean an authentic keeper jersey of Marseille to Sean with a name and number which was worn by a player. I told Sean and he's looking forward to getting it!
We then had dinner with everybody including Catherine and Bénedicte, which was very nice. The mosquitoes were absolutely horrible though and they still are even though I'm indoors. It's intensely itchy! During dinner we all talked and had a really great time. Even Sean talked a little with the boy, Mateo. After dinner they all left and now Sean and I are going to watch Matrix: Reloaded since we only got to see the first one in Lille. Tomorrow I believe we are going to Aix en Provence to see a classical music concert. They said we probably wouldn't like it so they'd just let us roam around and go eat a pizza while they were at the concert but they said if we wanted to we could go with them so I think we are. I bet it'll be very cool.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
X
The trip to Aix en Provence was really good. It was 4 hours long but I got to read my book so I'm happy I started on that. Also, while I was in the train I couldn't stop staring out the window at the country since it was so nice. When I arrived in Aix, I went outside and waited for Bénedicte. She pulled up in her car and said hello. I could definently remember her a little.
The drive to the house was very pretty. The landscape was beautiful and it was nice to see the French country. When we arrived, after the 25 minute drive, I coudn't believe how nice the place was. The entrance was gorgeous as well as the house.
When we got inside, Sean and I went to our rooms and unpacked. We then got our swimsuits on and went to the pool. Sean swam while Bénedicte and I talked by the edge of the pool. After the pool, we went to go see the ground keepers' 2 dogs. She then showed us around some more and we ran into Catherine, Françoise's sister. She showed us the ping pong room with all the heads of the animals such as the hippo and rhino. Then I went upstairs to change back into my clothes and I finished unpacking . Sean and I walked around and looked at more rooms. What I definently have to say about the house is that it's nice but almost scary if you don't know it very well! But I'm still happy I'm here.
Tonight Sean and I ate with Bénedicte, her boyfriend and his 5 year old daughter. They then all left and now it is just me and Sean in the house. We are watching a movie and then we are going to bed. Tomorrow Françoise and Marc will be coming back from where ever they were. I'm looking forward to seeing them! And don't worry, I'm going to take picture of the house.
The drive to the house was very pretty. The landscape was beautiful and it was nice to see the French country. When we arrived, after the 25 minute drive, I coudn't believe how nice the place was. The entrance was gorgeous as well as the house.
When we got inside, Sean and I went to our rooms and unpacked. We then got our swimsuits on and went to the pool. Sean swam while Bénedicte and I talked by the edge of the pool. After the pool, we went to go see the ground keepers' 2 dogs. She then showed us around some more and we ran into Catherine, Françoise's sister. She showed us the ping pong room with all the heads of the animals such as the hippo and rhino. Then I went upstairs to change back into my clothes and I finished unpacking . Sean and I walked around and looked at more rooms. What I definently have to say about the house is that it's nice but almost scary if you don't know it very well! But I'm still happy I'm here.
Tonight Sean and I ate with Bénedicte, her boyfriend and his 5 year old daughter. They then all left and now it is just me and Sean in the house. We are watching a movie and then we are going to bed. Tomorrow Françoise and Marc will be coming back from where ever they were. I'm looking forward to seeing them! And don't worry, I'm going to take picture of the house.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
I'm back!
I packed last night so I wouldn't be in such a hurry this morning. Jenn made french toast for us. I got my postcards ready to send and I got my bags near the door. The 2 kids ran towards us to give us big hugs before we left to go to the door. It was sweet. Especially since Olivia, 1, runs as fast as she can into your arms for a big hug. She then gives you a big ol' wet kiss. And then right before we left Max, 4, yells from downstairs saying that he wants to say good-bye one last time. I'm glad I got to end my visit like that. I have to admit, it was very heart warming and I'm definitely going to miss all them very much.
Since we hadn't ridden a double decker bus the entire trip, we took the bus to the Underground. We arrived at the Underground around 10:40AM. We found the station very easily. It had seemed that we mastered the Underground the last day we were there. Too bad. Once we arrived to the station I wasn't allowed to go to the waiting area inside the Eurostar lobby until 11:30AM and it was only 11:05AM. So I walked around and used up all the change I had. I got myself a sandwich and some candy. When it finally reached 11:30AM I went to the line to get through. The passport check took less than 2 minutes.
When I finally got to the waiting area I looked at the screen to see if the train was on time. Since I was there at 11:30AM I knew I was going to have to wait for 45 minutes until I could board the train since it was leaving at 12:37PM, or so I thought. The train was actually departing at 12:57PM so that meant I had to wait for one hour. I just sat there and read the English newspaper and ate my food.
When I was finally in the train, all I did was relax. I fell asleep and then woke up right when we were getting near Lille Europe, the stop I had to get off at. On the train, the controller said that we were nearing Brussels. The train's last stop was Brussels and it stopped in Lille Europe on its way there. So when I heard that we were nearing Brussels I though I had slept through my stop! I checked the time on my ticket and the local time, yet everything seemed just right. A few minutes later, the controller corrected himself saying we were actually arriving in Lille Europe, not Brussels. I was relieved!
Once I got off the train I went to go find Caroline. Rose and Caro came to get us and I was very happy to see them again. When we got home, Sean said he wanted to return his jersey that he had purchased the last time we were here. So Sean, Rose, Gab, and I went out to return the jersey. While we were out, we went to a few other stores and just walked around. After a few hours of looking around and chatting with the cousins, we all went back home. Then when we got home Sean, Rose, Gab and I all got ready to go to InQuest again. We quickly ate the pizza Rose had burned for us and we were then out the door. Marg had begun working at InQuest today. It was her very first day on the job. Once we got in, we were all pumped. It was even better than the last time. I had a great time and so did everybody else.
After the InQuest, everybody went home and just sat in front of the TV and relaxed. Tomorrow, the South of France!
Since we hadn't ridden a double decker bus the entire trip, we took the bus to the Underground. We arrived at the Underground around 10:40AM. We found the station very easily. It had seemed that we mastered the Underground the last day we were there. Too bad. Once we arrived to the station I wasn't allowed to go to the waiting area inside the Eurostar lobby until 11:30AM and it was only 11:05AM. So I walked around and used up all the change I had. I got myself a sandwich and some candy. When it finally reached 11:30AM I went to the line to get through. The passport check took less than 2 minutes.
When I finally got to the waiting area I looked at the screen to see if the train was on time. Since I was there at 11:30AM I knew I was going to have to wait for 45 minutes until I could board the train since it was leaving at 12:37PM, or so I thought. The train was actually departing at 12:57PM so that meant I had to wait for one hour. I just sat there and read the English newspaper and ate my food.
When I was finally in the train, all I did was relax. I fell asleep and then woke up right when we were getting near Lille Europe, the stop I had to get off at. On the train, the controller said that we were nearing Brussels. The train's last stop was Brussels and it stopped in Lille Europe on its way there. So when I heard that we were nearing Brussels I though I had slept through my stop! I checked the time on my ticket and the local time, yet everything seemed just right. A few minutes later, the controller corrected himself saying we were actually arriving in Lille Europe, not Brussels. I was relieved!
Once I got off the train I went to go find Caroline. Rose and Caro came to get us and I was very happy to see them again. When we got home, Sean said he wanted to return his jersey that he had purchased the last time we were here. So Sean, Rose, Gab, and I went out to return the jersey. While we were out, we went to a few other stores and just walked around. After a few hours of looking around and chatting with the cousins, we all went back home. Then when we got home Sean, Rose, Gab and I all got ready to go to InQuest again. We quickly ate the pizza Rose had burned for us and we were then out the door. Marg had begun working at InQuest today. It was her very first day on the job. Once we got in, we were all pumped. It was even better than the last time. I had a great time and so did everybody else.
After the InQuest, everybody went home and just sat in front of the TV and relaxed. Tomorrow, the South of France!
Monday, July 7, 2008
One, Two...
Some London police men are either complete idiots or they are nice and let you take a picture with them. Luckily I picked the one that likes to have pictures taken of him.
Today we started off the day a little earlier than usual; 9:00AM. I took my shower, had breakfast and then I was out the door. The weather was again, rainy and cold. Our first stop was Buckingham Palace to see the changing of the guards. We got there around 11:00AM and it began around 11:15AM so we didn't have to wait too long. The guards are very cool to see marching around and playing their instruments. Lets just say there was lots of red everywhere. I captured some video of them marching and "changing". It's pretty awesome to see it take place. Once they guards were in their places we left.
(I have some videos but they will have to wait.)
We headed towards Westminster which was the closest Underground station. On the way there we saw the base where the other guards had gone to rest. We kept going and some how arrived right next to Big Ben. So I snapped a picture. We then headed off to Tottenham. We first had some problems finding our way to the correct train to go there. Our plan was to go to the club shop. Finally, we could see the platform we had to get to after lots of searching around. Right as we reached it, it pulled away. After 10 minutes another one came.
Once we arrived at Tottenham (White Hart Lane), we followed the signs to the stadium. We had to stop in a pub to get some further directions. Of course, we asked in a Tottenham fan pub. Good choice. While we were nearing where we wanted to go, we saw that the 2 Tottenham club stores were closed. We decided to go a little further and we found the real store that was opened. While we were browsing around in the store it began pouring down outside. I got some shorts and just as we were leaving, the rain stopped. Before we took the train back we went in this little restaurant that was very good. After the food we jumped onto the train and headed back to where we came from. While on the train, the rain came down hard again.
On our way back home, we stopped at Oxford Street since we wanted to see what other stores were there since we didn't get to stay very long last time. Once again, while we were browsing it was pouring down but when we went outside and to go the Underground it stopped. When we finally arrived at our Underground station and began walking towards the house, I stopped at a book store to get an Asterix & Obelix comic book. When I finally got to the post office to get some stamps, I was 5 minutes too late. It had just closed. D'OH! So I then decided to go to the UPS store to try to get some. They were open, yet the only had half of the number of stamps I needed. Just my luck. I took what they had and for the final time, I was on my home with no stopping.
Now Sean and I are just getting our stuff together since we are leaving tomorrow for Lille. It is now raining hard on & off. London was a fantastic experience and I'm glad I decided to come. I know that I would definitely come again some time soon.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
I can see clearly now the rain is gone
Today the weather was ugly and disgusting. It was raining and cold with strong winds. In the morning, Jenn made pancakes with bacon so we started the day pretty well. We left around 11 to go see the Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. When we got off the metro, we tried to go see how much the tickets were for the Tower of London. For one ticket it was £26 which is about $52. No thanks! So we took some pictures and continued on to the Tower Bridge. Now, since we were by the water, the wind was stronger and it was even colder. Finally, we reached the entrance to the North Tower on the bridge. The entrance fee was only £6 so we decided to go.
When you first get onto the tower, they show a little video of the bridge. It's very funny to see the different designs people had proposed for the bridge when it was first decided that a bridge was going to be constructed. I'll just say they chose the right one! You continue on to the crossing to the South Tower. There were tons of posters talking about the people of the time and how life went. Overall, the posters were very interesting. At the end of the first crossing (to the South Tower), there is another little video talking about how the bridge is raised and lowered. It's was interesting to see how they solved all the problems they came across while building it too. Then we continued on to the second crossing which goes back to the North Tower. By then the weather had cleared up and it had stopped raining. The second crossing had even more information about the bridge and the history during the years it was being built. After that you go back to the South Tower and go down the stairs to the ground level. Then you walk down the bridge to where the bridge mechanical systems are to raise and lower the bridge. It was very cool to see how everything work.
The mechanics that helped the bridge go up & down.
Art that I saw
When you first get onto the tower, they show a little video of the bridge. It's very funny to see the different designs people had proposed for the bridge when it was first decided that a bridge was going to be constructed. I'll just say they chose the right one! You continue on to the crossing to the South Tower. There were tons of posters talking about the people of the time and how life went. Overall, the posters were very interesting. At the end of the first crossing (to the South Tower), there is another little video talking about how the bridge is raised and lowered. It's was interesting to see how they solved all the problems they came across while building it too. Then we continued on to the second crossing which goes back to the North Tower. By then the weather had cleared up and it had stopped raining. The second crossing had even more information about the bridge and the history during the years it was being built. After that you go back to the South Tower and go down the stairs to the ground level. Then you walk down the bridge to where the bridge mechanical systems are to raise and lower the bridge. It was very cool to see how everything work.
The mechanics that helped the bridge go up & down.
Art that I sawOnce we were done with the bridge, we went to Oxford Street to go look at stores and we tried to see if there were any football shops. We didn't have too much time since we had to be home by 6 since we were going out to eat with the family. On our way home it started raining very hard again. Just our luck. But by the time we left for dinner around 6, the weather was clear. No clouds in site. For dinner we went to this authentic Italian restaurant that was absolutely delicious. Sean and I shared a bowl of gnocchi and a prosciutto pizza. Mmmmmm! We then went home and had some ice cream with the 2 kids.
Tomorrow we are planning on going to see the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace at 11:00AM. We are then going to try to go to Tottenham, London to go to the local team's football shop at their stadium. I think it'll be a good way to end London!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Scary Day
So today we first went out to the park near the house to go kick around. The youngest son Max had football practice so we went with the family. After about an hour we walked around the park and looked at the peacocks and parrots that were in the trees and in the gardens. When all that was done we went home, had lunch, and then went to go to the Madame Tusseau's Wax Museum. It was really cool since we got to go in this little path inside that was a sort of a "haunted house" type thing. We also took lots of photos of us with our favorite people! We got to end the wax museum with a little ride through the history of London from the early ages to the present.
After the wax museum we went to the London Bridge to take pictures. We caught a glimpse of the Tower of London and also the Tower Bridge. We are planning on seeing those close up tomorrow. After crossing the London Bridge we went to The London Dungeon which is really cool. It's like a "haunted mansion" but there are rooms and each one is a different tragedy that happened to England such as the plague, Sweeney Todd, Jack the Ripper, and other things. It's very goolish and fun. To end the Dungeon we went onto this little roller coaster inside that was very similar to the Scream at Fiesta Texas. It's just a ride where you go up and free fall down really quick. Sean bought 2 pictures of us yelling and I, of course, made a stupid face since I was laughing when we were at the top. At least it's funny to look at.
After all the fun we took the metro home, without getting lost. Now we are getting ready for the BBQ since it is, indeed, today.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Big Ben says "Hi"
So today was quite interesting. Sean and I first went to go see Big Ben. Once again it was a lot smaller than I expected but still very nice.
We then kept walking around and saw the London Eye which is a huge ferris wheel, and saw Parliament. We went to this little church called St. Margaret's Church which was very small but still beautiful. After all of that went tried to get onto the London Eye. We waited in line to get tickets. Once we got to a cashier the guy said we had to have an adult with us to get onto the Eye! On our way out we asked how we could get on to a lady that worked there. She told us that we should try to get just a random adult to stand by us when we got the tickets. So we might try that later but I don't think it's worth it.
On our way out, Sean and I stopped by this little stand where we got a wax museum tickets and tickets to this place called London Dungeon which takes you through little rooms in which each one is a different decade of London's history. It's supposed to be scary so I think I'll enjoy it.
We then kept walking around and saw the London Eye which is a huge ferris wheel, and saw Parliament. We went to this little church called St. Margaret's Church which was very small but still beautiful. After all of that went tried to get onto the London Eye. We waited in line to get tickets. Once we got to a cashier the guy said we had to have an adult with us to get onto the Eye! On our way out we asked how we could get on to a lady that worked there. She told us that we should try to get just a random adult to stand by us when we got the tickets. So we might try that later but I don't think it's worth it.
On our way out, Sean and I stopped by this little stand where we got a wax museum tickets and tickets to this place called London Dungeon which takes you through little rooms in which each one is a different decade of London's history. It's supposed to be scary so I think I'll enjoy it.
After the tickets we went to get some food and then stopped by a little gift shop to get some souvenirs. We got on the train and headed for home. On the way home we did the exact same mistake we did the first time we were going to the house. So we did the same detour and finally got home. We dropped off our stuff and then went to go to the wax museum. When we got there at 5:33, the employees said that is closed at 5:30! So we are going to try to go tomorrow since our tickets are still valid.
We then went back home and just relaxed. Jenn ordered us pizza for us to eat since we hadn't eaten yet. It was delicious! Now I'm just looking at what I bought and seeing what is for who. I'm looking forward the scary London Dungeon tomorrow and the wax museum. I think it'll be fun! Especially since we get to end the day with a BBQ celebrating, not only the 4th of July, but Gay Pride Day as well since it's Gay Pride Day on the 5th for England. I just hope we don't run into the parade while we are out!
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Good day to you mate...
Well I'm in London! Caro and Rose took us to the train station. We had our bags and our little picnic that Caro had prepared for us to eat on the train. The Eurostar took about 1 1/2 hours to get to London. When we arrived in London we bought our Underground Oyster tickets. Once we had our tickets we were off to Jenn and Jorg's (the people whom we are staying with). On our way there we didn't switch trains so we had to get off and go back 2 stops so we could then get onto the correct train. While we waited a nice old man helped us understand which trains went where. Sean talked to him more since the man was talking about more than just train stops. He was rambling on about things for quite a while. Anyways, we got on the right train and then we arrived at the house.
When we arrived we were greeted by their house keeper, Agnes, who is very nice. Their house is located in the center of zone 1 of London (the center of London). Jenn arrived about 30 minutes after we had arrived. We talked with her and said thanks for having us here. She showed us around the house which is very nice. It is 4 stories so it's very big. After settling in and after Jenn had showed us everything she mentioned that Simon Cowell lived a few doors down! She said she knew this because he pet her dog Roxy when she went to walk Roxy one day. So I thought that was pretty cool. Jenn and Jorg also have 2 kids, a boy named Max who is 3 1/2 and a girl named Olivia who is 2. Tonight Jorge, Jenn, Sean, and I had dinner together. We talked for about a good solid 2 hours about tons of stuff. They are very nice and interesting people to talk to! After dinner and dessert we went to go walk their dog, Roxy, around the block to go see Simon's house which was really nice, of course. He had about 4 sports cars in his gated driveway and in front of his house. Then we saw his guard who is supposed to keep the weird people away from his house, chatting away on his cell down by the end of the block. Guess Simon was away.
Since the weather in London isn't the nicest at the moment we are deciding to just stay in tonight and plan our days to come. I cannot wait for what we have planned such as Big Ben, the London Bridge, the Tower Bridge, the London Dungeon Musuem, Buckingham Palace and other cool things. Tomorrow after our visiting, Jenn and Jorg are having a large BBQ with 35 people for the 4th of July. It should be a fun day!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Landas
Today we got to see old Lille. Rose, Margaux, Sean, and I went out and went to some little shops and saw Rose and Margaux's schools. They were pretty cool looking. Then Sean and I went to a soccer shop which had tons of stuff on sale. I got a white LOSC long sleeve jersey and some shorts. Then I returned my Adidas shirt that was too big and got a Puma shirt that fit better. After the shops we went home where Mamy and Caro were waiting for Sean and I to go to Landas.
Once we got home we were right out the door again on our way to Landas. It was very cloudy but it was still pleasant. When we finally got to the road where our old house was, I remembered the smell of the factory that caramelized food. That sweet, burnt caramel scent. I definently remembered it once I smelt it. No picture can remind you of that smell. Once we got to the house all I could think of was how it looked nothing like the picture. And I remembered it being a LOT bigger. But maybe that has something to do with me being 2 at the time. Other then that, I could sorta remember the stuff.
We sort of creeped up and the owner saw us. We said who we were and then the man that lived there let us into his driveway to have a look around. The man said he remembered Mamy from the last time she was there with Jenny and Kevin. Well I walked around while the owner told us how he had made some changes and this & that. All I could think of was how much I liked the house and how much this reminded me of when we used to live in France. I saw the backyard where the pool was. The only thing I sort of remembered from pictures was the porch where Matthieu and some other people dressed up for halloween posed for a picture. Then there was that other picture of me and Jenny (I'm about 2 in the pictuere) where we are in the street. Jenny is in the driveway looking across the little street at me on my little tricycle toy thing on the rock driveway of the neighbor.
La maison de Landas.
The local train station.
The local church.
Jenny and Sophie's school, I think.
The Blue Bird.
After Landas, we went home and Sean and I just hung out. Gab went to a friends house and now we are about to eat dinner. Fred and Flo are coming over to eat since Rose got her BAC. So we're celebrating tonight.
Once we got home we were right out the door again on our way to Landas. It was very cloudy but it was still pleasant. When we finally got to the road where our old house was, I remembered the smell of the factory that caramelized food. That sweet, burnt caramel scent. I definently remembered it once I smelt it. No picture can remind you of that smell. Once we got to the house all I could think of was how it looked nothing like the picture. And I remembered it being a LOT bigger. But maybe that has something to do with me being 2 at the time. Other then that, I could sorta remember the stuff.
We sort of creeped up and the owner saw us. We said who we were and then the man that lived there let us into his driveway to have a look around. The man said he remembered Mamy from the last time she was there with Jenny and Kevin. Well I walked around while the owner told us how he had made some changes and this & that. All I could think of was how much I liked the house and how much this reminded me of when we used to live in France. I saw the backyard where the pool was. The only thing I sort of remembered from pictures was the porch where Matthieu and some other people dressed up for halloween posed for a picture. Then there was that other picture of me and Jenny (I'm about 2 in the pictuere) where we are in the street. Jenny is in the driveway looking across the little street at me on my little tricycle toy thing on the rock driveway of the neighbor.
La maison de Landas.
The local train station.
The local church.
Jenny and Sophie's school, I think.
The Blue Bird.
After Landas, we went home and Sean and I just hung out. Gab went to a friends house and now we are about to eat dinner. Fred and Flo are coming over to eat since Rose got her BAC. So we're celebrating tonight.
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