Ok, so haven’t really updated this too well. I’ve been doing a *lot* and the internet café a) costs money and b) has a French keyboard which is awkward and ebil.
So, yes, I’ve been in France for a little more than a week now. Have met with Cathérine and Joanne, both of whom are very nice and helpful. Have opened a bank account: after all the fuss, it was so easy! I had visions of needing every document under the sun, a huge deposit and not actually understanding anything! But our adviser is lovely. Doesn’t speak English, but lovely, clear, slow French. Set all three of us up with our accounts with no fuss or hassle :)
Have also got my French mobile. It’ll have been sent to you via Facebook if you’re someone I want to have it. Of course, if you are someone who thinks they should have it, and doesn’t, terribly sorry, but try Facebook or email danielleseal@gmail.com.
What else have I been up to? Generally exploring Chartres – my home for the next 8 months. Went to mass in the Cathedral this evening. Actually managed to understand most of the French, but as usual, I don’t get on too well with Catholicism…but it was still a good experience nonetheless, and since I haven’t been to church in about 3 months, I thought it made a good start!
Went to Paris yesterday! Such good VFM on the train. A single to Paris is normally 13 Euros (about £9 ish – so that’s amazing full stop) but with a “Carte 12-25” its 6,50 Euros…about £4. My general facial expression was: o.O. France rocks at transport! Puts England to shame anyway. So yes, and Paris is only 1hr10 away from Chartres anyway, so that’s great too. In Paris, went to a market, the Place de la Bastille, les Jardins des Tuileries, le Louvre (only outside) as well as various other little places.
I’ve decided that I want to make the most of being here: in terms of language, motivation of the kids I’m teaching (who seem lovely, btw after seeing them on Thursday) and travel. I want to see a fair bit of France, and I really want to go to Spain.
Not really speaking a huge amount of French: I’m spending a lot of time with English speakers, but we have promised to start speaking in French in a few weeks, but also haven’t really had much opportunity, though I’m speaking in French to every French person I ‘meet’. It’s fun though :)
It gets quite lonely living on your own. But films and music keep me occupied. Clearly missing everyone, but I guess it’s different because I’m off out doing things and meeting new people and having new experiences, while for everyone else, they’re doing normal things which I should be there for, so it’s easier to miss me I guess, than for me to miss other people. Does that make *any* sense? And of course, I am missing everyone, and it feels really weird to not be in Uni this year, especially since most people are graduating (woah!).
Love to *everyone*, and bear in mind that I want contact from everyone – so you’d better write to me in some format (letter, e-mail, text)!
Nielle xxx
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