"Just remember: No matter how stressed you are, you're still stressing IN FRANCE." ;)

Je suis fatigue. No really.

That past week I have averaged about five (cinq) hours of sleep per night. NOT FUN. I decided to apply to Rice University, and it's been even harder than I expected. International communication is EXTREMELY difficult, especially since I don't have a phone. Everyone has been really great back in the States though, really helpful and understanding :)

So we went to Loches last Saturday. It was not the most elaborate and ornate place I've visited, but it was my favorite so far. I found it refreshing- it was so REAL. It was not about pampered nobility, but about the uglier side of French history- a side that all societies have. We visited the dark, damp prisons, and saw the remnants of a place that was once filled with a yearning for freedom. The sun barely made it through the sorry excuse for windows- our tour guide mentioned that prisoners would fight for a spot closest to the light. The staircases were narrow and winding- a perfect defense against intruders. Walking around, it was like I was part of the past, like if I closed my eyes I was really there.

I have been in France for a month now. I was looking at old pictures, and I hardly recognize the person I used to be. Even a year ago... It's like another life. Incroyable.

I was listening to a conversation between two French people the other day (eavesdropping is bad, I know) and I was able to make out most of what they were saying. How much something costs (C'est combien?) where she went last night (Je suis alle au montrichard!) I love this culture, the compassion the people show for complete strangers... I hope that I can take some of this kindness back to the States with me, and that people will see a change in my demeanor. I hope that they will see me and say, "Wow, what do the French know that I don't?" I want people to ask me questions, so that I can explain all the wonderful things I have been able to experience. I want them to know that THEY can see and do great things too, if they truly believe in their dreams.

Tonight I went to the local pizzeria with Charlotte and Lindsey. The owner was all smiles as he took our order, and the smell from the kitchen was heavenly. They even had a pizza "vegetarien" :) J'adore champignons et fromage! For dessert, we went to le commerce for creme glacee. Caramel with whipped cream and chocolate = FANTASTIQUE :)