Roaming Solo!

Bonjour tout le monde! My morning was rather lazy. I slept in until 11:00, took a shower (which I was told was too long.. oops!), ate a small lunch, and then took a nap until 14:30. I guess jet lag decided that day 3 was the best time to hit me. I'm feeling fine now though! After getting ready, I ventured out all on my own to go to le Capitole!

I wore a scarf in an attempt to look more French... I don't think it worked.

I got on the bus and then took the metro (using my new carte pastel for both) until I got to le capitole. The first thing I did was go to La Poste, which is both the post office as well as a bank. I waited in line for about 10 minutes until I was able to speak to a teller. Now let me tell you, I was really nervous. Christophe had told me that banks can be unnecessarily complicated and not very patient with foreigners. 

There was definitely an obvious language barrier, but we were able to figure out what I need in order to open an account and I only detected him losing his patience once. He was definitely overall more pleasant than I expected, which was a relief. It might be a little more complicated when I actually go back to set up the account, but it should be fine. 

I'm trying really hard to remind myself that each little hiccup is a learning experience for me. I can't expect myself to know everything. It will get easier to understand people and I will slowly start to feel more comfortable joining into conversations. I just have to keep reminding myself that I'm here to learn and grow.

Anywho, after going to the bank, I walked around for an hour or so. There's a big square in front of the capitol building, so I sat down there for about 10 minutes and people watched. There is some interesting stuff that goes on! I couldn't get over that despite the fact that there's a ton of construction going on, it is so beautiful here. 

The capitol building, gorgeous, huh?

I went in and out of a few shops, but didn't buy anything- I know, boring. But, I did stop into a cafe and bought something to eat and drink. I didn't eat a big lunch and the French eat dinner very late, so I think I made a smart choice. 

Un croque monsieur et un orangina- another attempt at being French? Possibly- but so delish!

I took the metro and the bus back to the apartment (without getting lost or taking the wrong bus, may I add) and I was even able to open the door without problems. So, now I'm sitting at the apartment alone contemplating what to do with the rest of my evening. Christophe went climbing after school today and I have no idea where Anissa is, so I might just go for a walk around the neighborhood. I know I had a productive day, but I can't just sit inside on my 3rd day in France, now can I?

Although with a view like this out of my bedroom window, I could probably manage.

Anissa just got home so I have someone to talk to! I'm not sure where the rest of the night will take me, but for now, au revoir!