Les Plaisirs Simple

For the past two weeks I have been with the same group of people at all times. That can be rather discouraging when you just need some personal space. That's when I step back, evaluate the fact that I am in FRANCE, and smile. Sometimes the culture gap feels a little discouraging, but I found some lyrics to help me out here:

The open water chills me to my bones
But it's the only place that I feel alive. - Thrice

Being in a country that doesn't speak my language can be like being in open water. You are constantly vulnerable. It's a bit intimidating. However, I love the culture and way of life so much that it is what makes me feel alive. It makes me happy. I haven't felt this good in so long.

When sometimes I miss home, or am feeling down, all I have to do is look around. Let me share some things with you:

Les enfants outside the musee. They sat in a circle by that bizaree piece of art playing duck duck goose. Have you ever heard a child speaking French? I find it intimidating, even more than asking an adult if they speak English (I loathe admiting a language defeat). Children though, man, I should have them teach me French.

Condom dispensers on the streets. Bienvenue a France!

Finding hidden doors and tiny waterfalls.

Lavendar. Take in a whiff of that and you are sure to feel a bit more serene at the very least.

Les chiens. And damn well trained ones, at that.

To be continued . . .