Kicking January Out :)

So, as it turns out, an incredibly long January has ended in a flurry of activity and some new beginnings. This past week, a group of about 10 assistants decided to take advantage of cheap, last-minute Opera tickets. On Tuesday night, we trooped out into the freezing wind to see what seats we could get at Pelleas et Melisande. The Opera de Nancy was every bit as beautiful and intricately carved on the inside as one would imagine from the outside. Beautiful ribbons of gold snake up staircases and onto the ceilings, mirroring the gold that emanates from Place Stanislas. The opera itself was a bit lacking in plot, but still an experience that I’m glad I had. The music was beautiful, and from my seats I could see the orchestra perfectly, though not always the actors J. And, Janie, Henry and I benefited from the chocolate I snuck in.

The next day, there was the most beautiful thing—sunshine! It lasted almost all morning, enough for a run before my first college class at Nancy University. Janie, Jenna and I attended our first civilization lecture, and learned all about the workings (and not workings) of French government. It was so interesting to compare the two systems, and be back in college again! The professor is so nice, and speaks slowly so everyone can understand.

Also, Janie heard back from a job she had applied for…and got the go ahead to move on to the next step of interviews! So, with classes, job prospects, and approaching travel, we are kicking January out.

Today, I accompanied Jenna to visit Geraldine in Jarny, and went to Metz after for some wanderings/shopping. We got into a discussion with the server at a restaurant about the differences between Nancy and Metz, and learned so much about why they are so different. The presence of so many students in Nancy creates a younger environment, and the presence of the Germans in the past has given Metz its different architecture and style. Then, on the train back to Nancy, we made friends with the controller who checked our tickets (which is a good thing, because I forgot my 12-25 card which means 40 euro fine) and talked all the way back about America/France relationships and differences. Definitely been learning these past few days!

I hate to wish away my time in France, but I am so glad January is about over. It has been long, cold, and I’m ready to see Chris and travel! Also, we can't forget that my niece is 2 months! Megan and Andrew have been very good about sending me pictures of lil c, who is quickly becoming the most adorable chunker on the face of the planet. Looking at her pictures makes me happy no matter what, but also a little sad that I can't be there to see her start to smile and make her noises.