Bonjour from Paris! Finding the Parisian Rhythm: Parisian life offers a unique rhythm. My mornings often start with catching up on schoolwork or enjoying a well-deserved sleep-in before class. The focus on verb tenses in class (plus-que-parfait, imparfait, passé composé, passé simple, futur proche, futur simple) keeps me engaged. I'm starting to feel the urge to expand my vocabulary beyond basic phrases. French Interactions: Beyond Stereotypes: My experiences with Parisians have been surprisingly positive. Sure, I've encountered a rude person or two, but that's not unique to Paris. Most interactions, especially in stores and restaurants, have been courteous and friendly. The same goes for my online connections on Bumble BFF and Dating! The Parisian Shuffle: One interesting observation is Parisian walking etiquette. Unlike some cultures where pedestrians naturally shift to accommodate oncoming traffic, Parisians tend to hold their ground on sidewalks. While it may initially seem rude, it's likely just a reflection of the fast-paced Parisian lifestyle. A Night of Unexpected Delights: The past two nights have been delightful, filled with dinners with friends. While waiting for my German colleague after school, I bumped into my American friend. We decided to grab coffee with her and a classmate, an engineer from Mexico. This unplanned encounter led to a beautiful evening filled with laughter, conversation (in French and English!), and delicious food. We even had a hilarious moment when our Mexican classmate started conversing with us in Spanish! The night ended with a delightful meal at a charming restaurant – a perfect example of the unexpected magic of Paris. Café Drouot 10 Rue Drouot, 75009 Paris, France Embracing Parisian Life:
Despite the goodbyes, I'm embracing all that Paris has to offer. Every day brings a new adventure, from the intricacies of the language to the unexpected friendships formed over coffee.
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Salut! Parisian Active Life Pays Off! This Parisian weekend was a celebration of healthy living! Not only did I see a 8-pound weight loss, but I'm also conquering the challenges of Parisian hair care. Every week is a new adventure in hair care. Luckily, I got a couple recommendations for salons and braiders. Fitness Success in the City of Lights: When I was in Houston, I trained consistently with my personal trainer at Equinox, River Oaks, and I saw incredible success - strength gains, muscle definition, improved flexibility and overall health improvement. But, even though I ate a high protein diet, it was still a struggle to lose fat and see the numbers on the scale decrease. So, to see this weight loss, was an amazing feeling! Now, I'm living an active Parisian lifestyle which has been a game-changer. My daily steps average between 10,000 and 15,000, thanks to the walkable streets and charming neighborhoods. I joined the local Basic Fit gym in my neighborhood, so that will be a great option. An active lifestyle, combined with intermittent fasting (16:8 method) and mindful eating (limiting those delicious pastries!), has finally pushed the weight loss needle in the right direction and I'm determined to lose 10 more pounds! As if I didn't need another excuse to go shopping for new clothes in Paris! Twisting and Conditioning my Parisian Mane: Washing hair in a small Parisian shower has been an adjustment. Still, I'm determined to find the perfect Parisian hair routine. While some French conditioners haven't met my needs, the quest continues! Next on the list: "Secrets by Loly" at Sephora, the leave-in condititioner from Kerastase's curly hair care line, and an Italian conditioner (sometimes a change of country brings a change of fortune!). For the hot summer, two strand twists are my savior and Mielle Curly Custard creates curl definition and softness. Winter may bring a switch to wearing my afro, but for now, it's all about keeping cool with updos. I ended up putting my twist out into a pony tail at school because my neck was sweating! Parisian Living, Parisian Learning:
Living in Paris has shown me the power of an active lifestyle for overall wellness. I see fitness results, and the constant movement helps combat any excess pounds from those blueberry tarts and cannolis as I navigate the city. Stay tuned for more discoveries as I continue to explore the secrets of Parisian living! Bonjour à tous! Spontaneous Parisian Fun: Who knew a lazy Saturday could turn into a whirlwind of Parisian joy? It all started with a friend's invitation to explore vintage stores. With Paris's abundance of unique shops, I couldn't resist! (Plus, who doesn't love spending time with amazing people?) Vintage Kilo Thrills: The kilo shop was a treasure trove! We rummaged through racks, trying on fun pieces and scoring fantastic finds. I found two beautiful scarves and a stunning dress (thanks to a friend's keen eye!). Later, I was already dreaming of summer outfits (because the day was hot!). The hunt for breezy cotton and linen continues, though! As much as we love athleisure in the States, and it's very comfortable while working out, walking around all day is uncomfortable. After about 3-4 hours, I'm ready to get out of my leggings and into something more breathable, like the wide-leg trouser pants and flowing skirts many Parisians wear. Today, I had on the Lululemon Softstreme skirt, which is comfortable but not in the heat! Here's where you can find this shop: Kilo Shop Paris Grand Boulevards, 10 Bd Montmartre, 75009 Paris, France Nathalie Garçon's Dream Dress Re-Encounter: Remember that gorgeous white dress with the French poem at Nathalie Garçon? The one I couldn't stop thinking about? Well, fate intervened (we happened to be really close to the boutique), and after the vintage shopping, we walked on over. Stepping inside, the dress was still as beautiful as I remembered. It was love at first try-on again. The delicate fabric, the unique hand-stitching, the limited production (only 3-5 pieces per design!) – everything about it screamed "Parisian perfection." Summer Style Inspiration: Now, the planning begins! I can envision summer evenings, this dress flowing with a pair of Hermes boots (size 39, US 9, any takers?). Lille may have teased me with a perfect pair, but Paris holds the key (hopefully!). Nathalie Garçon, 15/17, Galerie Vivienne 75002 Paris, France A Passage to Discovery: After our vintage adventure, we wandered into a Parisian passage, full of hidden treasures. (Stay tuned for a future post explaining these charming hidden gems!) These passages were an inspiring surprise, even for my Parisian friend who hadn't yet discovered this one (near the #3 Bourse stop). I couldn't think of a better way to explore this fabulous city than to have moments of discovery with friends. Bonus Treats:
Take advantage of the upcoming post on Parisian passages! And to cool off after all this shopping excitement, I had a Saint Germaine Spritz – a Parisian summer must-have! A Whirlwind Parisian Adventure: Lille's Pastries, Unexpected Train Troubles, and Parisian Panache5/12/2024 Lille beckoned with its charming architecture and rich history, offering a perfect escape for a day trip. Little did I know, this adventure would be filled with delectable pastries, unexpected mishaps, and a touch of Parisian flair. The Early Start and a Train Ticket Mishap: The day began before dawn. Exhausted from the previous day's quad bike tour, I managed to grab some sleep before a 6am rise. My mission: navigate the Parisian train system to meet my classmate and head to Lille. The journey started smoothly at the Sentier stop, a neighborhood I already adore. However, navigating to the RER B train in the Châtelet les Halles metro station proved trickier. Thankfully, with a little teamwork and broken French, my classmate and I found a kind agent who steered us in the right direction. A minor disaster struck at the airport security. My trusty Navigo pass, perfect for the metro, wasn't valid for the RER B to the airport. A €35 penalty later (ouch!), I learned a valuable lesson: always double-check tickets! The pain of the penalty was eliminated with le petit déjeuner (breakfast) which included a croissant and latte from a casual dining restaurant at the airport. A Pastry Paradise and A Delicious Detour: Reunited with the group, we eagerly embarked on the true Lille adventure. Our first stop? A local treasure trove – the renowned Maison Méert, a tea and pastry shop steeped in history. Founded in 1677, this iconic patisserie boasts not only delectable treats but also stunning architecture designed by the acclaimed César Benvignat. Stepping inside was like stepping into a wonderland of culinary delights. Gourmet marshmallows, rose-covered almonds, and an array of pastries,each a masterpiece in its own right, filled the air with a tempting aroma. Resisting the urge to sample everything, I settled on some gourmet marshmallows guimauves and a pistachio choux pastry with a tempting strawberry jam filling (saved for later!). Savoring Tradition in Lille: After indulging in these sugary delights, we strolled through Lille's charming streets, taking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant shops. Lunch was a delightful exploration of French cuisine at a traditional restaurant, La Chicorée. Following a friend's recommendation, I savored a delicious beef stew with fries – a comforting and classic choice. I indulged in a few oysters that were fresh from the sea - and the restaurant provided red tobasco sauce, lemon and a vinaigrette, which made the oysters delicious. From Designer Dreams to Bra Emergencies: A visit to Hermès offered a chance to try on luxurious boots. I tried on, and loved the Saint Germain ankle boot, but needed a 1/2 size larger - I'll have to find these in Paris. While Montblanc provided a playful pit stop for some "manly purchases" with my classmates. Laughter ensued when I realized I'd forgotten to put on a bra in the morning before I left! The Parisian heat demanded a switch to a cooler outfit, but the thought of a braless crop top wasn't ideal. Thankfully, a helpful sales associate at Printemps guided me (in French!) to a lovely lingerie set from Wacoal, perfectly suited for the summer weather. Crêpe Escape and a Relaxing Return:
The day's adventures concluded with a delightful Nutella crêpe with Chantilly cream, the perfect sweet ending. Sharing an Uber from the airport to Paris with classmates offered a chance to unwind and reflect on the day's whirlwind events. Lessons Learned and Memories Made: Lille's charm, unexpected hiccups, and the ever-present opportunity to practice French all combined for a truly memorable day trip. It's a reminder that sometimes, the detours and mishaps become the stories we hold most dear. N'oublie pas le dessert! Don't forget dessert! Title: Parisian Quad Bike Adventure & Unexpected Brasserie Delights (One Month Anniversary!)5/12/2024 Celebrating a Month in Paris with a Quad Bike Tour and Brasserie Bliss May 8th and 9th were a whirlwind in Paris! Not only were they French holidays, but they also marked my one month anniversary living in this incredible city. To celebrate, I tried a unique activity: a quad bike tour through Paris! Thrilling Ride Through Iconic Landmarks With enough time here, my goal is to explore all corners of Paris. Although some places, like the Sacré-Coeur and Notre Dame, remain on my list, I've already been surprised by so many beautiful sights. Here I am on the Avenue Champs d'Elysées on the way to pick up the quad bike from Quad City Tour . Of course I had to stop for pics! During the tour, I interacted with classmates and locals, practicing my French along the way. I was ecstatic about the opportunity to experience Paris from a different perspective. While I haven't driven a car in a month, the quad bike offered a chance to "drive" while sightseeing. We cruised past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, circling some hidden gems I hadn't yet discovered. A Cozy Brasserie and a Parisian Faux Pas The quad bike tour lasted four hours, leaving me hungry and ready to stretch my legs. Luckily, the tour ended near a charming brasserie. While the Italian restaurant some classmates initially desired was closed, this turn of events led to a fantastic discovery. The brasserie boasted a warm atmosphere and impeccable service. It was a delightful surprise, as we hadn't planned on going there beforehand. The photos you'll see capture the lovely ambiance. Over dinner, my German classmate and I discussed the unique characteristics of Paris and French culture. One funny anecdote involved my cheeseburger. When it arrived, I couldn't help but laugh – the cheese was placed on top of the bun! This unexpected presentation had me thinking the French were "trolling" me. However, hunger trumped amusement, and armed with a steak knife and fork,I devoured the delicious burger. On a positive note, I may have found my new favorite drink, a close second to my beloved Orangina, the Saint-Germain Spritz (St. Germain elderflower liquor, Prosecco, sparkling water, lemon twist, and optional edible flowers). Unlike the American sodas I rarely drank back home, Parisian orange soda seems more natural, resembling a light,fizzy orange juice, sometimes even containing pulp! (For those who know me, pulp is usually a no-go, but here, it's surprisingly good.) The Saint-Germain Spritz, with its delightful blend of berries, orange, hibiscus, and a touch of wine, is refreshing and pairs beautifully with almost any food. Personally, I prefer it to the Aperol Spritz. A Lesson in French Communication Dinner also brought a small language learning experience. I unintentionally offended the waiter when he returned quickly after presenting the dessert menu. Meant to be playful, my "Vous êtes très vite!" (you are very fast) came across the wrong way. Realizing my mistake, I apologized with a laugh, explaining the language barrier. Thankfully, all was well, and I enjoyed my apple tart with Chantilly cream (though they could keep the sour cream!). Finding Inspiration Around Every Corner After dinner, we stumbled upon a street lined with modern art galleries. It was the perfect opportunity to capture some artistic inspiration and practice my photography skills with my iPhone (for now). Investing in a better camera to truly document the beauty of Paris is definitely on my future wish list. Au revoir for now!
Bonsoir from Paris! In this post, I'll take you on a journey through some discoveries, "le vocabulaire" and a few school struggles. Le Kiosk My mission was to find a magazine store because all the magazines are in French, which is hard to get in the US. After a bit of searching, I found that magazines are usually sold at kiosks (generally cash only). Missing my train stop in the morning turned into a lucky break! My plan was to get the Vogue issue with Céline Dion, styled by Law Roach. But, as fate would have it, I stumbled upon the coveted GQ France cover featuring Olivier Rousteng, the creative director of Balmain. I couldn't believe my luck! As a long-time follower of Olivier on Instagram and a massive admirer of Balmain's craftsmanship and detail-oriented designs, this was a must-have! The Allure of Balmain For me, Balmain clothing is more than just fashion. It's a symbol of Parisian style. The luxurious fabrics, intricate details, and show-stopping pieces are not just awe-inspiring, they're a part of me. Some are red-carpet ready, while others elevate everyday wear with a Parisian flair. This magazine purchase ignited a spark - I'm now determined to learn more about the history of the House of Balmain. School Days: Tests, Grammar & Bouillon The day wasn't all magazine hunting - there is a test every Monday. One of the topics covered was passive voice construction, which is a hurdle for me. Business communication typically thrives on direct language, so this shift to indirect phrasing is rattling my brain. When's the last time you reviewed pronouns? Here's what I'm dealing with in class: Ce qui (what):
However, the day wasn't all about tests. My writing class delved into the world of restaurant reviews, including the concept of "bouillon." These traditional French eateries serve classic dishes, and I'm eager to explore them further.
A Parisian Adventure Unfolds
Every day in Paris brings new discoveries, challenges, and reasons to fall in love with this city. Stay tuned for more adventures as I navigate school, explore Parisian culture, and hopefully master this quirky French keyboard! This past weekend, I celebrated my fantastic friend Joddie Taylor, who runs the blog and podcast "Snacky Says." We've been friends for over a decade, and her spirit of adventure inspires me endlessly. When we both lived in Brooklyn, Joddie had a remarkable clarity and determination to chase her dreams. She moved abroad, embraced a new language and culture, and explored the world. Her journey has been incredible, and you can follow it on her blog, "Snacky Says - https://www.snackysays.com/." You can also join her Udemy course on how to commit to a goal for 100 days.
Joddie's course resonated deeply with me because of her dedication and discipline. If anyone can stick to something for 100 days (or more!), it's Joddie. (David Goggins is my second choice!) It got me thinking: what could I dedicate myself to for 100 days? School is a given, but beyond that, I wanted a personal commitment. Being in Paris is a testament to my planning and perseverance—a story I'll share soon! Inspired by Joddie and my journey, I've decided to embark on a 100-day challenge, documented right here on this blog. Challenge #1: French Word (or Phrase) of the Day I'll be posting a new French word or commonly used phrase each day. I'm learning so much in school, and I want you to join me on this linguistic adventure! We'll explore vocabulary and expressions you might not hear daily, learning together as we go. Challenge #2: Regaining My Strength Before leaving for Paris, I was deeply committed to weight training and fitness. While walking around Paris is great exercise (hello, countless stairs!), getting back to weight training is a priority. Some may say I get enough steps just by navigating the city—and they're not wrong. My daily goal is to hit 10,000 steps at least five days a week, but building strength is important, too. Fitness goes beyond just looking good. It's about feeling strong, accomplished, and mentally focused. These are all things I value. While exploring a new city is exciting, maintaining a sense of normalcy is also essential (a post is coming about that topic). Like in Houston (where I've moved around a few times), establishing healthy habits helps me settle in. So, over the next 100 days, I'll return to the gym, regaining my strength and returning to my fitness routine. It's been about a month since I've lifted weights, so consider this a fresh start! May 1st marks the official launch of my 100-day challenge. I already have some fantastic French words and phrases swirling around in my head, ready to kick things off! Here's to 100 days of Parisian adventures, language learning, and physically and mentally getting stronger. Stay tuned – it's going to be a fun ride! Bonjour from Paris! Today's a "do-it-all" Sunday, balancing laundry with catching up on the week. Let's dive into the Parisian whirlwind! Laundry Day Surprise and Hair Day My day started with a lucky break. The laundry room was free, so I snagged the two machines for my clothes and towels. After the card reader glitched and caused a faux alarm, I said a quick prayer to the tech gods, swiped my card – success! Now, onto some blog updates and hair washing – a half day affair for my natural hair. Balancing Studies and Self-Care Weekends are crucial for catching up. I missed blogging Friday's adventures, and I don't want to fall behind. School offers a nice balance with later classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This allows some morning time to center myself before the Parisian hustle begins. This week's French lessons focused on le vocabularie, l'écologie, compréhension orale, and passive phrases ex. (Fr) Elle me demand ce que j'ai fait (Eng) She asked me what I was doing. Sometimes things click (very) slowly, but I have a test every Monday, so Sundays are for studying. Honestly, the desire to study French after a full day of school has not yet clicked, so balancing French studies with American TV is my current reality. Friday's Farewell Friday saw classmates saying goodbye, heading back to Germany, Switzerland, Mexico, and Colombia. I shared my blog with some, sparking their interest in following my Parisian journey. Our teacher planned a fun farewell museum visit. However, a metro mishap tested my French! I got stuck in between the turnstile and fare gate due to someone swiping their card right behind me! Thank goodness I was there with my teacher so she could tell the agent that I was physically stuck in the middle and couldn't escape. A deep breath later, I emerged with a story and a reminder: "Strange things are bound to happen in Paris!" Artistic Inspiration at 59 Rivoli The museum adventure led us to the Point Neuf métro, at 59 Rivoli, an open-space art studio. Witnessing artists at work, showcasing a range of styles from portraits to abstract art, was truly inspiring. The studio itself was a work of art, with every surface from walls to stairs adorned in vibrant creations. The top floor boasted a beautiful glass ceiling, bathing the space in natural light. I created a Youtube short that shows more of the interior, but they've asked us to respect the artists and tag their work before sharing online.
Dinner and Language Learning After the museum, we enjoyed a casual dinner and drinks at L'Amazonial – a perfect way to bond with classmates. The address for the restaurant is 3 Rue Sainte-Opportune, an area perfect for people watching or chatting away. While French should be the goal, English remains our current common ground. My German friend asked me if Houston still had that problem? It took me a second but... Hopefully, in a month or two, conversations will flow in French (including the puns!) as some classmates aim to stay in French-speaking regions. Stay tuned for more Parisian adventures, including *hopeful* visits to Lyon and Marseille!
Paris is a whirlwind! While I'm adjusting to the constant walking and navigating public transportation, the city's charm is undeniable. Here's a glimpse into a fun Wednesday spent exploring with classmates. The Quest for the Perfect Notebook The day began with a mission – finding the perfect notebooks and folders for school. We ventured to FNAC, a giant store resembling Best Buy in the US. Though we didn't find exactly what we were looking for, navigating the metro with classmates proved to be a valuable learning experience. The pen section was funny because people actually tried out the pens on the shelving - and it's art! Unexpected Delights: Le Petit Marcel and a Parisian Steak Tip After our bookstore hunt, a craving for a proper Parisian meal led us on a delightful detour. We stumbled upon Le Petit Marcel, a charming cafe with intricate designs and a welcoming atmosphere. The waiter, speaking perfect English, highly recommended the steak. We took his advice and were not disappointed! The steak paired surprisingly well with the coconut rice, and a fun fact emerged: the first bite of the steak is best enjoyed without any sauce, according to our enthusiastic waiter. Bar Demory's Cave-like Charm and American Comfort Food After indulging in a delicious meal, we continued our Parisian adventure with beers at Bar Demory. This casual bar surprised us with its cave-like atmosphere downstairs, perfect for a relaxed evening. Our exploration didn't end there! We stumbled upon a store selling American snacks, a touch of home amidst the foreign streets. While I'm focused on healthy eating, it was comforting to know where to find those familiar treats if the craving strikes. Finding Balance and Building Connections
Paris offers a beautiful balance of exploration and time to soak in the moment. Living here for 18 months means I can pace myself and truly experience the city. One of my professors saw the blog and asked me if I was writing it in French! Honestly, that would be an amazing way to practice and I'll dedicate time to do that. Now that I'm settling in, I'm eager to connect with the expat community and make friends. Practicing French in a relaxed social setting, perhaps over a glass of wine, is definitely on my list! Stay tuned for more Parisian adventures! Bonjour from Paris! I'm excited to share a glimpse into my second full week in the City of Lights. It's been a whirlwind of learning, unexpected adventures, and of course, delicious discoveries. Class and Culture Clash The week started with a rude awakening (literally - 9 AM classes are tough!). But the early mornings are balanced by the reward of learning French in a vibrant environment. My classmates are a great resource, and two of us even a skipped class turned into a fun Parisian lunch date. In my defense, I didn't know that lunch was going to take so long! Speaking of lunch, navigating Parisian meal customs has been an interesting experience. From leisurely lunches with no takeout boxes to the importance of ordering the "plat du jour" (daily special), it's all part of the cultural immersion. Pencil Quest and Palace Adventures A simple errand for notebooks turned into an adventure. After getting lost searching for a school supplies, I learned a valuable lesson thanks to my teacher: Parisians get their school supplies at the Monoprix! Thankfully I asked her because the first store I found while searching for a "librarie" turned out to be a tarot and crystals shop - not exactly what I was searching for. Petit Palais, a Beaux-Arts Style Building Later, I finally made it to the Petite Palais, a stunning museum housed in a former palace. It's amazing how France transforms these grand spaces into accessible cultural hubs. It features a permanent collection of art spanning centuries, from antiquity to the early 20th century. Originally built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, the Petit Palais is now a free museum (except for temporary exhibitions) and a popular destination for art lovers visiting Paris. Exploring Parisian Groceries Another exciting find was Picard, a store with a mind-blowing selection of high-quality frozen meals. From healthy options rated "A" for nutrition to decadent treats, it's a game-changer for busy Parisians (or time-crunched students like me!). Sweet and Savory Delights Paris is a paradise for both sweet and savory palates. I'm trying to be mindful of sugar during the week, but indulging in a pastry or two is part of the experience. Discovering my love for pistachio desserts (especially tiramisu!) has been a delightful surprise. Learning to Love the Parisian Pace
Parisian life moves at a different pace than back home. Adjusting to the constant walking, the focus on in-depth learning, and the leisurely approach to meals has been a challenge, but it's also eye-opening. This immersive experience is exactly why I signed up for this program, and I know it will benefit me in the long run. Living and Learning in Paris Every day brings new discoveries, from navigating the metro to deciphering food labels. There are bound to be more mishaps and miscommunications along the way, but that's all part of the adventure. I'm excited to continue learning, exploring, and indulging in the best that Paris has to offer. |
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