The last few weeks have been quite intense for me here which has come as quite a shock after such a relaxed Christmas. The main change in my routine has come about because I've now 'achieved' my goal to live and work in France. I am a customer assistant at one of the M&S France branches. Currently this means I spend a lot of time hanging up bras and advising people on outfits. The whole experience is helping my French so much and is also a lot of fun.
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| Cheers, Inception. |
Now that I both live and work in France I've realised that I need a new target. Whilst I'm happy to enjoy the moment, I'm a strong believer in having a dream to get you to where you want to be. However currently I'm happy in the knowledge that I've achieved something I've wanted for years. The start of my contract means I am now working or studying for 28 hours a week. This is significantly more than I've been doing since I moved here so I think it will take time to adjust to the early starts and late finishes. But as always I'm doing my best to see it in a positive light. Now I value my free time more.
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| SU represent. |
An example of valuing my spare time could be last night (13th February). A group of people from the Students Union at my university were invited to the British Embassy for a talk on London and Paris. We all dressed up the best we could and had a really interesting evening. Firstly we were greeted the ambassador (!), then we listened and participated in the discussion of Paris and London. Afterwards there was a champagne reception with unlimited drinks and canopés in which we certainly showed our true student colours.
Unfortunately I don't spend every evening at the Embassy (yet). Next week is reading week and I'm looking forward to one of my friends coming down to Paris and also my mum and sister. It's difficult to feel homesick when you have Skype and the Eurostar. I could technically go back to England whenever I wanted (if I had a spare £100+...) What's surprised me is the fact I don't feel like I need to.
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| Nelson's Valentine's card to our flat |
To conclude, I'm feeling pretty happy. I'm surrounded by wonderful people, have easy access to others via the internet and am suddenly getting somewhere! Things are changing but change is one of the only things we can be sure of in life. So, whether you're alone or in a couple this Valentine's, I hope you have had an excellent day.
Alice
