Want to feel awe and a significant amount of insignificance? Visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. It is located on the site of Omaha Beach. I visited there on the 28th of June in 2010. The day had started at 7 am when I had gotten up and quickly dressed and packed up. I got over to breakfast at about 7:20 am when we had to leave at 7:30. I quickly got some bread from breakfast and was ready to board the bus.
The bus trip to Saint Michael lasted about 2 hours through some amazingly beautiful scenery. Saint Michael is an old abbey that was built in the north of France. The strip of land is it built on would flood when the tide rise and it only when the modern road was added could you consistently make it to the abbey without worrying about being stranded. The church and monastery are located at the top of a hill that required us to climb up many stairs to reach it. Once we reached it we had an amazing view out over the countryside. The rest of the church was okay but nothing special when compared to what else we had seen. But those views are my standard by which I will compare all other beautiful panoramic views against.
Afterward the church, we went to grab lunch as we were leaving within the hour. I ended up with a omelet and fries that was very good. I left my portion of the bill and quickly went and bought some souvenirs before realizing that I was five minutes late from when we were told to meet at the bus. I quickly hurried to the bus where the rest of the group miss the professors where waiting.
Once they did arrive at the bus we left and ended up on the road again. This took about another 2+ hours to get to the American Cemetery and Memorial. When we arrived we went through the museum that was okay but was not that great. Then I went outside. The first thing I did was walk down to the beach where I turned around and looked up. As I looked at it all I could think about was that men who where my age and younger fought up that hill. I could not comprehend how they could have down it. Little did I know that I would have my answer quickly.
After climbing back up I saw the cemetery. There were countless white crosses and Stars of David. I do not know how many graves were in each section but I know that the sections went up to J. I walked down one row and I was saddened to see so many unidentified graves. If the grave was of a known soldier it had when they died, what their name and rank was, and what division they were in. If it is an unidentified soldier it would say “Here Rests in Honored Glory A Comrade in Arms Known But to God”.
In the middle of the sections was a beautiful chapel that I could not get really see much as a small group was there. At the beginning of the section there was a large memorial area that was impressive. At 4:30 we left to go catch a train back to Paris for one last dinner.
Although it was an adventure to finally get home on Wednesday my time in France will always be remembered as a great experience for me.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Joe-9 If I lived in Paris I would be broke and weigh 300 lbs
On the 25th of June, my day started at about 6:20 in the morning. I had to wake up and finish packing up. That was the day that we left Montpellier to go to Paris. Our train left at about 7:20 and arrived in Paris shortly after 11 that morning. I was hungry as I had only eaten a granola bar and exhausted from not having slept more than four hours and having been unable to sleep on the train. Upon arriving in Paris we left the train with our luggage and I started following Lindsey who was following Dr. Pelley. It was not long before we realized that we were separated from the rest of the group who had stayed behind at the train to go together as one group. We learned this when Dr. Pelley called Dr Bains and we then waited till they caught up. We then carried our luggage down through the subway, which is a challenge that lead to almost all of us having our bag caught. Eventually we navigated through one switch of lines and ended up at the Nation station. The hotel was about a 10-15 minute walk from the subway station. We arrived at the hotel so early that we could not check in and had to leave our bags in a room and come back later.
After walking around for a short while we ended up in the Jewish part of Paris where we ate lunch. I simply ate pastrami because I was too tired to really want to try anything. Afterwards we saw continued walking around and saw Notre Dame. We then went back to the hotel where we were finally able to check in. I shared a room with the Brandons and Steve. The room was on the second floor which was reachable by dragging the luggage up a spiral staircase. Once in the room we discovered one bed downstairs and up in the loft area where two beds and a cot. I had one of the beds upstairs and so had to drag my 42 pound bag up those stairs as well. We stayed at the hotel until it was time for dinner. We took the subway to the stop where we met Dr. Bains who lead us to the restaurant. The restaurant smelled of fish in a way that smelt great. Unfortunately it was incredibly hot in the restaurant and I had to drink a lot of water to avoid having problems.
In addition to the bread that was on the table, we were allowed to order from the three course menu. I had oysters which I did not enjoy as they were incredibly salty. I was glad that I did not follow Brandon Reeves and Steve as they got the duck foie gras which I thought was horrible. For the main course I had a great steak which was served with a bone section which had amazing marrow that I absolutely loved. For dessert I had Crème Brule which was very good even though I was only able to eat half of it because I was so full. After dinner I went with half of the group while the others went to see the Eiffel Tower.
On the way to the art museum, the Musee d'Orsay, we went by the Louvre and where able to take a few pictures. The Musee d’Orsay had an interesting Crime and Punishment and some Monet and Van Gogh. Probably my favorite pieces where the statues. This is something I learned about myself is that I prefer statues to paintings. We took a break for lunch where I went with Brandon and Steve to a café, where I had a good steak. Afterwards as they went to the art district I went back to the hotel to take a nap until I had to get ready for dinner.
Dinner on Saturday was good. It was at a nicer place than the night before as it had air conditioning. I had an okay sardine appetizer followed by really good veal dish followed by a half baked brownie. The brownie was heavenly as it was a brownie filled with a warm gooey chocolate. After dinner the group that had gone back to the hotel the night before went to the Eiffel tower. The Eiffel Tower is amazing to see at night when it is lit up.
After walking around for a short while we ended up in the Jewish part of Paris where we ate lunch. I simply ate pastrami because I was too tired to really want to try anything. Afterwards we saw continued walking around and saw Notre Dame. We then went back to the hotel where we were finally able to check in. I shared a room with the Brandons and Steve. The room was on the second floor which was reachable by dragging the luggage up a spiral staircase. Once in the room we discovered one bed downstairs and up in the loft area where two beds and a cot. I had one of the beds upstairs and so had to drag my 42 pound bag up those stairs as well. We stayed at the hotel until it was time for dinner. We took the subway to the stop where we met Dr. Bains who lead us to the restaurant. The restaurant smelled of fish in a way that smelt great. Unfortunately it was incredibly hot in the restaurant and I had to drink a lot of water to avoid having problems.
In addition to the bread that was on the table, we were allowed to order from the three course menu. I had oysters which I did not enjoy as they were incredibly salty. I was glad that I did not follow Brandon Reeves and Steve as they got the duck foie gras which I thought was horrible. For the main course I had a great steak which was served with a bone section which had amazing marrow that I absolutely loved. For dessert I had Crème Brule which was very good even though I was only able to eat half of it because I was so full. After dinner I went with half of the group while the others went to see the Eiffel Tower.
On the way to the art museum, the Musee d'Orsay, we went by the Louvre and where able to take a few pictures. The Musee d’Orsay had an interesting Crime and Punishment and some Monet and Van Gogh. Probably my favorite pieces where the statues. This is something I learned about myself is that I prefer statues to paintings. We took a break for lunch where I went with Brandon and Steve to a café, where I had a good steak. Afterwards as they went to the art district I went back to the hotel to take a nap until I had to get ready for dinner.
Dinner on Saturday was good. It was at a nicer place than the night before as it had air conditioning. I had an okay sardine appetizer followed by really good veal dish followed by a half baked brownie. The brownie was heavenly as it was a brownie filled with a warm gooey chocolate. After dinner the group that had gone back to the hotel the night before went to the Eiffel tower. The Eiffel Tower is amazing to see at night when it is lit up.
Joe-8 Host Family
If, before I came to Montpellier, I had made a list of things that I was worried about, how my host family would be would have been number 1. That was my major concern as I sat in the train station in Paris waiting for the train to come. Upon arriving in Montpellier, we were greeted by the host families. My host family is really not a family. There is the host mother Pamela, an American citizen who has lived overseas for some time, having raised her children in London and in France. She is the person in the apartment that I could speak English to so she was the only person I really communicated.
The first thing she did was walk with me up to her apartment which was about a ten minute walk up past the Comedie. There we went through an alley to the building where I climbed two flights of stairs and a stairwell to get to the apartment. The two of us arrived at shortly after eight and it was to a full crowd. Pamela hosts students all year round, including French students who live here for about nine months of the year to go to school. At the table was Pamela’s boyfriend Patrick, the four French students, Amelie, a 16 year old girl who played the piano a lot, Americ, a 16 year old boy who seemed to have a bit of a wild streak, Quentin (also 16), another student whose name I never caught, and Jeffery, a construction worker who spent a few nights. There was also a cat, named Tequila. I walked in and joined them in dinner.
After dinner I was taken to my room. My room is off down the hall with a window to the terrace. It has a closet, a dresser, a single bed, a chair with a lamp, a desk and a small bookcase. It was a small but comfortable room (when the window was open) where a spent a large amount of time. I quickly put my bags down and then went out and had two beers with Jeffrey. Afterwards about 10 pm I went to my bed, quickly changed and went to bed.
Everyday I woke between 8:30-9 am and took a quick shower. I would go to the IMLS. Sometime after lunch I would head on back and go to my room. I would often grab something to drink and a baguette on the way and snack on them in my room. I would get on my computer, read the assignment or work on a blog or paper while I waited to dinner. I spent many an hour in that chair sitting comfortably.
Dinners where very varied with a meat like turkey on skewers, pork chops, hamburgers, breaded chicken, fish, and even chicken nuggets as a main dish. Served with it would be a starch like rice or pasta, as well as a vegetable as well as a baguette. Before though there would be a starter, which would be deli meat, tomatoes and lettuce. After dinner there was a dessert, usually a piece of fruit or a cookie. The dinner process was started at about 7:30 on everyday but Sunday when it would start at 8:00. Pamela would call for us to set the table. It is much more challenging to set the table when the instructions are given in a language you do not understand. I would watch the other students to see how many plates they were taking and then work off of that number. After dinner we were responsible for clearing the table. I would generally be the first person finished as they talked in French during the meals and I would clear everything that they were finished with. Afterwards I would go out for the evening, go for a walk, or go back to my room for the evening. Pamela was very kind and allowed me to call home pretty much whenever I wanted too so I was able to keep in touch with my family.
Here is a picture of a my clothes on the line drying as there are no drying machine in the household
The first thing she did was walk with me up to her apartment which was about a ten minute walk up past the Comedie. There we went through an alley to the building where I climbed two flights of stairs and a stairwell to get to the apartment. The two of us arrived at shortly after eight and it was to a full crowd. Pamela hosts students all year round, including French students who live here for about nine months of the year to go to school. At the table was Pamela’s boyfriend Patrick, the four French students, Amelie, a 16 year old girl who played the piano a lot, Americ, a 16 year old boy who seemed to have a bit of a wild streak, Quentin (also 16), another student whose name I never caught, and Jeffery, a construction worker who spent a few nights. There was also a cat, named Tequila. I walked in and joined them in dinner.
After dinner I was taken to my room. My room is off down the hall with a window to the terrace. It has a closet, a dresser, a single bed, a chair with a lamp, a desk and a small bookcase. It was a small but comfortable room (when the window was open) where a spent a large amount of time. I quickly put my bags down and then went out and had two beers with Jeffrey. Afterwards about 10 pm I went to my bed, quickly changed and went to bed.
Everyday I woke between 8:30-9 am and took a quick shower. I would go to the IMLS. Sometime after lunch I would head on back and go to my room. I would often grab something to drink and a baguette on the way and snack on them in my room. I would get on my computer, read the assignment or work on a blog or paper while I waited to dinner. I spent many an hour in that chair sitting comfortably.
Dinners where very varied with a meat like turkey on skewers, pork chops, hamburgers, breaded chicken, fish, and even chicken nuggets as a main dish. Served with it would be a starch like rice or pasta, as well as a vegetable as well as a baguette. Before though there would be a starter, which would be deli meat, tomatoes and lettuce. After dinner there was a dessert, usually a piece of fruit or a cookie. The dinner process was started at about 7:30 on everyday but Sunday when it would start at 8:00. Pamela would call for us to set the table. It is much more challenging to set the table when the instructions are given in a language you do not understand. I would watch the other students to see how many plates they were taking and then work off of that number. After dinner we were responsible for clearing the table. I would generally be the first person finished as they talked in French during the meals and I would clear everything that they were finished with. Afterwards I would go out for the evening, go for a walk, or go back to my room for the evening. Pamela was very kind and allowed me to call home pretty much whenever I wanted too so I was able to keep in touch with my family.
Here is a picture of a my clothes on the line drying as there are no drying machine in the household
Lindsey Blog #10!!!
Well this is my last blog…finally. I’m kind of sad, but not really. It has been a blast in France and I made memories that I will never forget. Honestly coming into this experience, I did not know how I was going to react, but coming out of it I think that it was great and I maintained composure. But here it goes my last and final story.
We took an overnight trip to the Normandy region of France. When we got here we spent time in Honfleur, which was a very quant city known for its Apple Cider. (FYI this was AMAZING!)
This is snapshot of the city of Honfleur.
Anyways, after spending the night in the city the next day was filled with riding on our short blue bus and sightseeing. We made our way to saint Michel’s, which was one of the most amazing sights in France thus far. Driving towards this monastery was amazing, just a giant hill in the middle of nowhere with a massive church on the top.
We stayed here for the morning until about lunch time and then made another two hour journey to the American Cemetery. This was also another highlight of the trip, because its an American cemetery. For the French to give my Country a piece of their country to recognize lost American soldiers was a really respectable gesture. We got to see the many crosses in place of those that fought, the beached in which they stormed onto and different monuments.
I got a really unique feeling being here. You read about wars and see pictures from wars, but until you are really there and see the reality of it all, you don’t understand the vast impact it has on you personally. And for WWII it was the entire world, so it affected so many people and I just really found a new respect for France since they respected my country.
Anyways, Normandy was a great adventure. We eventually made it back to Paris where we were left to say our goodbyes. It was a sad feeling, but I was staying a bit longer with my family to enjoy some more of Paris. I honestly would recommend Study Abroad to any student anywhere. You not only learn a lot about the country you are in, but you learn a lot about yourself. You learn what is important to you and what you can live with or without and find your true independence. I am now back in the United States am ready to make my way back to the country filled with pink toilet paper, pointy noses and snails.
Well this is my last blog…finally. I’m kind of sad, but not really. It has been a blast in France and I made memories that I will never forget. Honestly coming into this experience, I did not know how I was going to react, but coming out of it I think that it was great and I maintained composure. But here it goes my last and final story.
We took an overnight trip to the Normandy region of France. When we got here we spent time in Honfleur, which was a very quant city known for its Apple Cider. (FYI this was AMAZING!)
This is snapshot of the city of Honfleur.
Anyways, after spending the night in the city the next day was filled with riding on our short blue bus and sightseeing. We made our way to saint Michel’s, which was one of the most amazing sights in France thus far. Driving towards this monastery was amazing, just a giant hill in the middle of nowhere with a massive church on the top.
We stayed here for the morning until about lunch time and then made another two hour journey to the American Cemetery. This was also another highlight of the trip, because its an American cemetery. For the French to give my Country a piece of their country to recognize lost American soldiers was a really respectable gesture. We got to see the many crosses in place of those that fought, the beached in which they stormed onto and different monuments.
I got a really unique feeling being here. You read about wars and see pictures from wars, but until you are really there and see the reality of it all, you don’t understand the vast impact it has on you personally. And for WWII it was the entire world, so it affected so many people and I just really found a new respect for France since they respected my country.
Anyways, Normandy was a great adventure. We eventually made it back to Paris where we were left to say our goodbyes. It was a sad feeling, but I was staying a bit longer with my family to enjoy some more of Paris. I honestly would recommend Study Abroad to any student anywhere. You not only learn a lot about the country you are in, but you learn a lot about yourself. You learn what is important to you and what you can live with or without and find your true independence. I am now back in the United States am ready to make my way back to the country filled with pink toilet paper, pointy noses and snails.
Lindsey Blog #9
When we arrived to Paris, on June 25th, we immediately headed to our hotel. We stayed in the Nation district of Paris, located in the South Eastern part of the city. When we got there and situated our bags, took a little fifteen minute breather and we were off again. We found ourselves walking about forty five minutes until we reached a Jewish restaurant, where we started our experience with different foods. I am very open to trying new foods, but I found out very quickly that couscous is not appealing to my taste buds.
Pretty much the rest of this first day was spent walking around getting a tour of Paris by Dr. Bains. I really enjoyed going to some of the places that he took us to, because these were not typical places that you would find on a paid tour. We walked past the statue where the Bastille used to be located, Notre Dame, Square Georges Cain, City Hall (where the collage of legendary men created a picture of Charles De Gaul), and finally made our way to Esterina. This was a famous gelato shop located in more the ritzy part of Paris.
This is a picture of the gellato ice cream shop from outside.
I chose not to get ice cream, and of course this was a huge mistake. I had a small taste of Allie’s ice cream and realized that almond gelato may be the best thing that man has ever made. But after we finished walking around most of us decided to go back to the hotel and take a quick break until dinner.
Dr. Bains made reservations at a very elegant restaurant our first night in Paris. This was a treat for many of us and of course mentioning food gets all of us very excited anyways. Everyone met in the lobby at around 7:00 p.m. looking great. We may be a crazy loud bunch, but we definitely clean up pretty nice.
This is a picture taken at the restaurant. This is Kalen, Me, Becca, Kindahl and Allie.
Anyways we made our way to dinner and it was time for another taste test against the taste buds. Duck liver…not y favorite either. At least I tried?
After we left dinner, a few of us decided to take our chances on the public transportation and find our way to the Eifel tower. I just have one thing to say. Wow.
When we arrived to Paris, on June 25th, we immediately headed to our hotel. We stayed in the Nation district of Paris, located in the South Eastern part of the city. When we got there and situated our bags, took a little fifteen minute breather and we were off again. We found ourselves walking about forty five minutes until we reached a Jewish restaurant, where we started our experience with different foods. I am very open to trying new foods, but I found out very quickly that couscous is not appealing to my taste buds.
Pretty much the rest of this first day was spent walking around getting a tour of Paris by Dr. Bains. I really enjoyed going to some of the places that he took us to, because these were not typical places that you would find on a paid tour. We walked past the statue where the Bastille used to be located, Notre Dame, Square Georges Cain, City Hall (where the collage of legendary men created a picture of Charles De Gaul), and finally made our way to Esterina. This was a famous gelato shop located in more the ritzy part of Paris.
This is a picture of the gellato ice cream shop from outside.
I chose not to get ice cream, and of course this was a huge mistake. I had a small taste of Allie’s ice cream and realized that almond gelato may be the best thing that man has ever made. But after we finished walking around most of us decided to go back to the hotel and take a quick break until dinner.
Dr. Bains made reservations at a very elegant restaurant our first night in Paris. This was a treat for many of us and of course mentioning food gets all of us very excited anyways. Everyone met in the lobby at around 7:00 p.m. looking great. We may be a crazy loud bunch, but we definitely clean up pretty nice.
This is a picture taken at the restaurant. This is Kalen, Me, Becca, Kindahl and Allie.
Anyways we made our way to dinner and it was time for another taste test against the taste buds. Duck liver…not y favorite either. At least I tried?
After we left dinner, a few of us decided to take our chances on the public transportation and find our way to the Eifel tower. I just have one thing to say. Wow.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Blog #8
--Lindsey Turbeville
The time finally crept up on us and we had to begin packing once again. It was such a sweet and sour feeling, as I had to say my goodbye’s to the IMLS, my new family and most of all the amazing city of Montpellier. I remember first arriving in the city and thinking to myself, four weeks was going to be an eternity, but it is now closing in and I’m feeling as if I just arrived.
On my last day in Montpellier I filled my schedule up with last minute shopping, taking photos and packing. I walked around the Place de la Comédie for a while taking some last minute photos.
This is a picture that I had taken on the last day by the fountain in Place de la Comedie.
I think that we were all dreading the morning to come, since we had to up at 5:45 a.m. I don’t even remember the last time I woke up before 7:00 a.m. if that tells you how great my morning would be. So in preparing myself for the worst, I quickly got to my host home and packed up all my 200 pounds of stuff, took some more photos and finally made my way down stairs to eat the ‘Last Supper’ and hoping to get to bed quickly. It was quite a cliché French meal with baguettes, salad, some kind of seafood casserole and fruit/cheese platter for dessert. But nonetheless, it was rather tasty and surprisingly a comfort food.
After my ‘Last Supper’, the routine began as I gathered my belongings, attempted to be prepared as much as possible and off to bed. But, of course I couldn’t sleep. Why would I be able to sleep the one night I need to get to bed? UGH. I’m sure I was not the only person who stumbled across this problem, but I definitely knew that this was a preview of the day to come.
So we all make it to the train station as we once again drag our bags down stairs then up some stairs and then down some again.
This was a picture taken at about 6:45 a.m. when we all arrived at the train station!! We are really excited in this photo...
It was great fun traveling, especially since I had three bottles of wine stowed away in my suitcase, adding to the weight. It was just a really funny sight watching fifteen students lug their bags around all groaning and wondering when the torture was going to end. Either way, we were all pretty tired and all had heavy bags to carry, but somehow managed to make it to Paris all together.
--Lindsey Turbeville
The time finally crept up on us and we had to begin packing once again. It was such a sweet and sour feeling, as I had to say my goodbye’s to the IMLS, my new family and most of all the amazing city of Montpellier. I remember first arriving in the city and thinking to myself, four weeks was going to be an eternity, but it is now closing in and I’m feeling as if I just arrived.
On my last day in Montpellier I filled my schedule up with last minute shopping, taking photos and packing. I walked around the Place de la Comédie for a while taking some last minute photos.
This is a picture that I had taken on the last day by the fountain in Place de la Comedie.
I think that we were all dreading the morning to come, since we had to up at 5:45 a.m. I don’t even remember the last time I woke up before 7:00 a.m. if that tells you how great my morning would be. So in preparing myself for the worst, I quickly got to my host home and packed up all my 200 pounds of stuff, took some more photos and finally made my way down stairs to eat the ‘Last Supper’ and hoping to get to bed quickly. It was quite a cliché French meal with baguettes, salad, some kind of seafood casserole and fruit/cheese platter for dessert. But nonetheless, it was rather tasty and surprisingly a comfort food.
After my ‘Last Supper’, the routine began as I gathered my belongings, attempted to be prepared as much as possible and off to bed. But, of course I couldn’t sleep. Why would I be able to sleep the one night I need to get to bed? UGH. I’m sure I was not the only person who stumbled across this problem, but I definitely knew that this was a preview of the day to come.
So we all make it to the train station as we once again drag our bags down stairs then up some stairs and then down some again.
This was a picture taken at about 6:45 a.m. when we all arrived at the train station!! We are really excited in this photo...
It was great fun traveling, especially since I had three bottles of wine stowed away in my suitcase, adding to the weight. It was just a really funny sight watching fifteen students lug their bags around all groaning and wondering when the torture was going to end. Either way, we were all pretty tired and all had heavy bags to carry, but somehow managed to make it to Paris all together.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Mes pensées de la journée
Becca -- #10
Globalement, j'aime le temps quand j'ai passé en France. Ma famille d'accueil était parfait! Mon père d'accueil, Didier, était très drôle! Il pourrait aussi parler anglais. Donc, quand je n'ai pas pu souvenir un mot français, il m'a aidé avec le vocabulaire. Ma mère d'accueil, Christine, était très gentille. Donc, mon expérience à Montpellier était superbe! Alors, je voudrais discuter les trois choses que j'ai trouvé le plus intéressante pendant la journée.
#1 - La plage
J'adore la Mer Méditeranée! Pendant chaque week-end nous sommes allés à la plage. Grâce aux transports publiques, il était plus facile pour aller à la plage.
Donc, avec ma serviette de plage, mon crème solaire, et des fruits frais, nous avons quitté Montpellier et nous avons trouvé un peu de sable pour prendre un bain de soleil.
#2 - Les fruits et légumes frais
Les produits frais étaient très bonnes! J'ai aimé que j'ai pu acheter les produits frais de la personne qui les a cultivées. C'était intérresante de payer l'agriculteur directment pour leurs produits frais.
Tous les fruits ont meilleure goût en France parce qq'ils sont mûrs. Si elle n'était pas illégale, j'aurais probablement apporté les fruits avec moi aux États-Unis. C'est dommage qu'il n'est pas possible, parce que les produits frais en France sont les meilleures.
#3 - Les transports en commun
J'adore les transports en commun! Je pense que Texas a besoin de construire un tramway pour Lubbock, alors je n'aurais pas de conduire à l'école tous les jours! Je pourrais prendre un tram à tous mes cours. Je pense aussi qu'il serait une bonne idée de construire des rails pour les trains de grande vitesse à travers Texas. Il serait Lubbock moins isolés. Aussi, je serais rentrer chez mes parents en quelques heures au lieu de huit heures pour les vacances d'hiver! Je pense que les transports en commun est le meilleure chose que France peut offrir au Texas!
Globalement, j'aime le temps quand j'ai passé en France. Ma famille d'accueil était parfait! Mon père d'accueil, Didier, était très drôle! Il pourrait aussi parler anglais. Donc, quand je n'ai pas pu souvenir un mot français, il m'a aidé avec le vocabulaire. Ma mère d'accueil, Christine, était très gentille. Donc, mon expérience à Montpellier était superbe! Alors, je voudrais discuter les trois choses que j'ai trouvé le plus intéressante pendant la journée.
#1 - La plage
J'adore la Mer Méditeranée! Pendant chaque week-end nous sommes allés à la plage. Grâce aux transports publiques, il était plus facile pour aller à la plage.
Donc, avec ma serviette de plage, mon crème solaire, et des fruits frais, nous avons quitté Montpellier et nous avons trouvé un peu de sable pour prendre un bain de soleil.
#2 - Les fruits et légumes frais
Les produits frais étaient très bonnes! J'ai aimé que j'ai pu acheter les produits frais de la personne qui les a cultivées. C'était intérresante de payer l'agriculteur directment pour leurs produits frais.
Tous les fruits ont meilleure goût en France parce qq'ils sont mûrs. Si elle n'était pas illégale, j'aurais probablement apporté les fruits avec moi aux États-Unis. C'est dommage qu'il n'est pas possible, parce que les produits frais en France sont les meilleures.
#3 - Les transports en commun
J'adore les transports en commun! Je pense que Texas a besoin de construire un tramway pour Lubbock, alors je n'aurais pas de conduire à l'école tous les jours! Je pourrais prendre un tram à tous mes cours. Je pense aussi qu'il serait une bonne idée de construire des rails pour les trains de grande vitesse à travers Texas. Il serait Lubbock moins isolés. Aussi, je serais rentrer chez mes parents en quelques heures au lieu de huit heures pour les vacances d'hiver! Je pense que les transports en commun est le meilleure chose que France peut offrir au Texas!
Paris et Normandy
Becca -- #9
Vendredi nous sommes arrivés en Paris! C'était trop merveilleux! Toute ma vie j'ai rêvé de venir à Paris et maintenant mon rêve est une réalité. Donc, nous étions fatigués mais après nous avons vu Paris ce n'était pas un problème!
Miraculeusement, il y avait un nouveau printemps dans nos démarches parce que nous pouvions voir la belle ville de Paris! Kindahl, Lindsey, Kalen, Allie, Stephen et moi ont decidé qu'il est nécessaire pour voir la Tour Eiffel. Donc, le premier jour en Paris nous avons vu la Tour Eiffel de nuit.
Quand nous sommes arrivés à la Tour Eiffel il y avait un spectacle de lumière. Donc, la première fois que j'ai vu la Tour Eiffel, elle était allumé!
Les prochains jours nous sommes allés en Normandie. L'excursion à la Normandie est la plus émouvante chose que j'ai fait pendant le voyage. Au moment quand je suis entrée dans le musée, je savais que je ne pourrais jamais oublier les plages de Normandie. Il a été une leçon d'humilité de voir l'endroit où beaucoup de soldats sont morts pour protéger ma liberté.
C'était très bon d'entendre leurs histoires, et rappelez-vous ce qui s'est passé le Jour J. Donc, j'ai pris un peu de sable des plages de Normandie pour mon père parce qu'il aime bien l'histoire de la Deuxième Guerre Mondiale.
Vendredi nous sommes arrivés en Paris! C'était trop merveilleux! Toute ma vie j'ai rêvé de venir à Paris et maintenant mon rêve est une réalité. Donc, nous étions fatigués mais après nous avons vu Paris ce n'était pas un problème!
Miraculeusement, il y avait un nouveau printemps dans nos démarches parce que nous pouvions voir la belle ville de Paris! Kindahl, Lindsey, Kalen, Allie, Stephen et moi ont decidé qu'il est nécessaire pour voir la Tour Eiffel. Donc, le premier jour en Paris nous avons vu la Tour Eiffel de nuit.
Quand nous sommes arrivés à la Tour Eiffel il y avait un spectacle de lumière. Donc, la première fois que j'ai vu la Tour Eiffel, elle était allumé!
Les prochains jours nous sommes allés en Normandie. L'excursion à la Normandie est la plus émouvante chose que j'ai fait pendant le voyage. Au moment quand je suis entrée dans le musée, je savais que je ne pourrais jamais oublier les plages de Normandie. Il a été une leçon d'humilité de voir l'endroit où beaucoup de soldats sont morts pour protéger ma liberté.
C'était très bon d'entendre leurs histoires, et rappelez-vous ce qui s'est passé le Jour J. Donc, j'ai pris un peu de sable des plages de Normandie pour mon père parce qu'il aime bien l'histoire de la Deuxième Guerre Mondiale.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Why Would They Put In a Sink For Midgets?
Normandy est l'excursion finale pour le programme du Texas Tech. La journee est incroyable. J'ai revé de l'adventure en France et cet est belle. J'ai appris de français, autre cultures, et J'ai regardé la tour Eiffel! Je suis vraiment bonheur. France est un pays beau et un pays historique. Je vais manquer la vie de quotidienne a Montpellier. =(
Par exemple, J'ai manqué lire Direct Montpellier dans Café Joseph deja!
Le premiere jour a Montpellier, J'ai inquieté. Mais, apres deux jours, J'ai su que le France vais etre parfait.
Je vais se rappeler tout les mémoires de France et ma classe a la IMLS.
Normandy a été l'excursion finale. Le memorial Américain (Pour La Guerre du Monde Deux) a été lancinant, mais inspirateur.
-Cooksey #10 (L'autre Brandon)
C'est Paris!
Aujourd'hui, nous sommes allés a Paris. C'est fantastique! Premiere, nous avons dejeuné a un restaurant hébraïque. J'ai mangé a la table avec Kat, Steven, Becca, Kindahl, et Dr. Chapeau. Le repas a été delicieux!
Deuxieme, nous sommes allés au hôtel Campanile! J'ai dormi dans la grande chambre avec Cowboy, Steven, et Joe. La chambre a eu deux etages et quatre lits. Apres, j'ai regardé la cathedral de Notre Dame. J'adore les cathedrals, et Notre Dame est mon favori parce que l'architecture gothique.
Finalement, j'ai retourné au l'hotel Campanile et a été tres fatigue. Mon premiere jour a Paris a été incroyable et tres agreable.
Samedi, Je suis allé au musée d'Orsay. C'est dans une gare ravalé. Mes favoris exhibitions ont été "Crime and Punishment" et Van Gogh. J'adore Van Gogh!! Son exhibition, "Self-Portrait" est incroyable et tres beau!
-Cooksey #9 (L'autre Brandon)
Blog 10:
Bonjour Paris! Notre classe à gauche de Montpellier et a passé quelques jours à explorer Paris. Qu'est-ce une ville incroyable! Nous avons marché à travers les parcs, musées arrêts de métro, et pris un bateau sur la Seine. La première nuit, nous sommes arrivés dans Paris notre classe est allé dîner avec notre professeur et de quelques-uns nous a quitté à la Tour Eiffel!
Il y avait des centaines de gens prenant des photos, de vente de souvenirs et bien sûr en regardant la vue incroyable. Comme nous étions regardant la tour Eiffel nous nous sentions comme si nous étions en France ... C'était comme si nous cherchions à enorme une carte postale! Vers minuit, nous sommes partis et avons trouvé notre chemin de retour à notre hôtel pour dormir quelques heures seulement avant le lendemain matin. Le lendemain matin nous avons visité le Notre Dame de la Seine et mangee des brochettes locales à un restaurant à proximité. L'après-midi était «temps libre» tandis que d'autres alors rendu visite à Mont Mart Allie et j'ai décidé de partir et d'explorer par nous-mêmes.
Nous avons visité le Panthenon, Sarbonne Université, promenait dans un défilé de la fierté gay, marchait à travers les jardins du Luxembourg et finalement trouvé des souvenirs pour nos amis. C'était certainement une journée bien remplie! Cette nuit-là, nous étions réunis à l'hôtel pour se préparer pour le dîner. Tout le monde habillé pour le dîner et nous étions tous très excités au sujet de manger certains aliments vrai français. Après le dîner, quelques-uns nous ont décidé de visiter l'Arc de Triomphe! C'est était si belle et nous avons tous eu beaucoup de plaisir à pied de haut en bas des Champs-Elysées! Cette étude à l'étranger avait comme une expérience incroyable et je n'étais pas prêt à quitter lorsque nous avons tous dit au revoir le dernier jour.
-Kindahl
Kat's Fifth and Final Blog
Nicole, ze Drine, Sherel et moi de la gare
Les quatre derniers jours du voyage n'ont pas été à Montpellier. Nous avons voyagé par le train à Paris vendredi matin. J'ai effectué 30 kg de bagages tout le temps. J'ai apprécié l'hôtel quand je suis arrivé. Paris était belle, mais avait beaucoups de magasins pour touristes. Nous avons beaucoup de marché et avait le meilleur dîner ce soir-là. Le dimanche, nous sommes partis pour la Normandie. Nous sommes restés dans une belle petite ville d'Honfleur. Lundi, nous avons visité le monument américain à Omaha Beach. Il était très calme.
Mardi Kindahl, Steven, Kalen, et moi à bord un avion et retour au Texas. J'ai vraiment apprécié les cinq dernières semaines, et je suis heureux d'avoir partagé l'expérience avec des gens formidables.
Blog 9:
Où est passé le temps passé? Je suis arrivé à Montpellier le 25 mai inquiets rencontrer de nouveaux amis, vivant avec une famille que je jamais rencontré et entouré par une culture que etait different. S'il vous plaît ne me laisse pas rentrer à la maison! En quatre semaines, j'ai rencontré certains de mes meilleurs amis,trouvé une nouvelle maison et ont mangé du meilleures de pain et du fromage de ma vie. Nous avons encore une semaine de plus à gauche en France mais je vais être très triste de quitter Montpellier.
Les aventures de commander de la nourriture pour la première fois, aller à la plage, nos excursions de classe, à regarder la coupe du monde, le shopping et la vie nocturne de Montpellier a été une expérience et de nombreux souvenirs ont été faites. C'est un sentiment différent de la séance à l'aéroport d'anticiper l'inconnu de maintenant à quitte le familier. Bien, il y avait certainement des moments embarrassants ....qui connaissait mal conjuguer un mot pourrait conduire à une salle pleine d'un rire ou l'ouverture d'une carte de Montpellier, en face de l'école ferait souvenirs amusants.
Cependant, je vais manquer d'avoir des classes au café du coin, acheter des fruits auprès des vendeurs à prendre à la plage, la course sous la pluie sur une chasse au trésor, aller au cirque, un pique-nique dans le garage avec les voisins et de manger des pâtisseries à La Pause. La langue française est beaucoup plus compréhensible maintenant que lorsque je suis venu et ma mère d'accueil et je peux avoir des conversations pendant le dîner au lieu de jouer le jeu de charades! C'est un gros plus! Je vais être très triste de quitter mais j'espère que les aventures se poursuivra à Paris et en Normandie!
-Kindahl
expérience incroyable
Mon expérience en France c’été fantastique. J’ai vu beaucoup de choses comme Notre Dame et La Tour d’Eiffel et La Louvre et Mt. Saint Michel et Omaha Beach. Alors, je ne sais pas si je l’aurais vu ces choses. En plus de choses, j’ai rencontré beaucoup des amis en France. Avant je suis partie les Etats-Unis, le seul personne j’ai connait était Brandon. Mais, à l’aéroport j’ai fait la connaissance d’autres quinze personnes. Toutes les personnes étaient tres gentils. Je ne pense pas que j’ai beaucoup ri. Par exemple, à Normandie Brandon a dit, « Pourquoi est-il un évier pour nains dans la salle de bain» c’était bidet. Aussi, Alexandrine avait des expressions des visages drôles. Toutes les professeurs étaient tres intelligents et ils s’enseignent tres bien. Je pense que ce groupe était parfait et je ne voudrais pas changer rien. Sur cet voyager, j’ai fait des amis de longue vie.
-Steven (10)
Normandie
Le 27 juin nous sommes allés à Normandie. Nous avons pris un train ensuit nous avons pris un taxi à l’hôtel. Pendant le séjour a Normandie, nous avons regardé le match de foot entre l’Angleterre et Ghana et l’Angleterre a perdu 3-1. Nicole était très triste. . Cette nuit nous avons diné à l’hôtel. J’ai mangé le poulet et des gâteau. C’était très bon. Le 28 juin, nous sommes parties l’hôtel et nous avons voyagé à Mt. Saint Michel et cimetière américain de Normandie. D’abord nous sommes allés Mt. Saint Michel. Il est une ville petite qui est surtout une grande église. Nous avons déjeuné-là et nous avons marché à travers l’église. Il est très grand et l’intérieur était super avec arc grand et des sculptures très jolis. Après nous sommes parties Mt. Saint Michel, nous avons pris l’autobus à cimetière américain de Normandie. En route, tous les étudiants ont eu présente leurs compositions. Ma composition était comme-ci comme- ça. J’ai toujours eu ce look pendant ma composition. Nous sommes arrivés au cimetière. Nous avons regardé un film sur WWII et l’importance de Normandie. Je pense que tous les personnes qui regarder le film, ils ont eu les larmes aux yeux. Après le film, nous avons vu le musée de Normandie, qui a été triste en raison de beaucoup des héros sont mort. Ensuit nous avons marché à la plage et nous avons regardé au cimetière de tous les militaires que sont mort. C’était spécial pour moi, parce que mon grand-père a combattu à Normandie.
-Steven (9)
La Tour d'Eiffel
La première nuit à Paris, nous avons diné au restaurant Flo, il est un restaurant trois étoiles. Cette nuit, j’ai mangé canard fois gras et steak et pour le dessert j’ai mangé un gâteau au chocolat. Après le diner, des étudiantes étaient voir La Tour d’Eiffel, donc Lindsey et Becca et Kalen et Kindahl et Allie et moi, nous avons pris un train à La Tour d’Eiffel. C’était difficile parce que nous avons dû prendre deux trains. Nous étions perdu pour peut-être trente minuits. Finalement, nous avons trouvé le train correctement. Quand j’ai vu La Tour d’Eiffel, j’étais sans voix, parce qu’il était très grand et très jolie. Il était plus grand que j’ai pensé. À La Tour d’Eiffel nous avons pris beaucoup des photos et à onze heures du soir il y avait un spectacle de lumière sur La Tour d’Eiffel. Il était très jolie et quelque chose que je ne vais pas jamais à oublier.
-Steven (8)
Paris is awsome.
Le matin au 25 juin, nous sommes parties à Montpellier et nous étions à Paris. J’étais triste parce que, je vais manquer ma famille d’accueil. C’était ma première fois à Paris. Paris était très amusant. Le premier jour, nous sommes allés le musée de Picasso, mais ce n’était pas ouvrir jusqu'à 2012. Ensuit nous avons marché à travers à Paris un peu. Nous avons montré La Louvre. J’ai pense que Le Louvre était incroyable. Quand j’ai vu La Louvre je suis été sans voix. Après La Louvre nous sommes allés Le Musée d’Orsay et nous avons vu le musée de crime et châtiment. C’était très intéressant et sanglant. Mon tableau préféré était d’Andy Warhol. C’était une chaise électrique. Bien que l’exposition fût intéressante il était aussi très triste. Aussi, nous avons vu la Cathédral de Notre Dame. Il était très grand avec l’architecture gothique. Il y avait un linge long donc nous n’avons pas allés à l’intérieur, mais l’extérieur était très magnifique.
-Steven (7)
Bonjour Papa!
Le 23 juin, j’ai rencontré avec mon père à Montpellier. Il était en train de travailler à Bézier donc, il a pris un train à Montpellier pour le déjeuner. Il est arrivé à Montpellier à trois heures de l’après-midi, j’ai lui montré mon école et il a rit parce que c’était dans un appartement. Mais, j’explique que l’intérieur était grand. Ensuit j’ai lui montré la Cathédral de Saint Pierre. Il a pensé que la Cathédral était très jolie et historique. Apres, j’ai lui montré la Cathédral, nous avons déjeuné a la restaurant Le Wok. C’est un restaurant chinois. Il a l’aimé beaucoup. Aussi, j’ai monte la place dernière l’Arc de Triomphe et j’ai demande a une dame avec les cheveux violets de prendre des photos de mon père et moi. Elle était très gentille. Apres le déjeuner, j’avais faim pour les glaces dont mon père et moi, nous sommes allés au jardin des glaces. J’ai voulu lui montre la place de l’Europe mais, sa train est partie à six heures du soir. J’étais heureux voir mon père en France.
-Steven (6)
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