I took the bus today because Alexandra said it was quicker and more direct. I hoped I would know where to get off! I counted the stops. Usually when I arrive in a town I walk around to get a sense of the place and gain orientation. This hasn’t been possible because I arrived by taxi, I have been taking public transport and have hardly had any time to explore. Still I am getting the hang of the place and yesterday we had a walk around the centre of town after class.
Today I stayed after class and did my presentation preparation then embarked on an exploratory stroll. I declined the drinks invitations and the invitations to watch the football though I am sure it would be fun. The strain of talking only in French is tiring and I need a bit of respite.
Football fever
A basil and citron sorbet to cool me down.
It was lovely wandering around this city. It is very grand with beautiful sandstone buildings of four stories high and because it is a UNESCO city everything is beautifully preserved. Having said that, nearly every road is being dug up for a new tram line and so it would be lovely to return when all is completed.
There is a famous reflective pool beside the river and opposite the Bourse but in this heat it is full of people lying and children rolling in the water, their bodies reflected on the surface. It is seriously packed everyday. At night it reflects the lights of the buildings opposite.
I am home resting and soon the football will be on downstairs as the family have returned from the beach in time for the game. This home is in the process of renovation and it will be lovely when completed but they are doing it in stages. It is quite large. Hermine plays the harp and one of the older sons plays the piano. I haven’t heard any practicing but the harp is beautiful when you stroke the strings.
France won the match against Belgium and the streets are full of horns tooting, people yelling ‘ viva la France’ and generally making a racket! My room is on the street side and last night there were guys talking and knocking on the neighbour next door. I was too tired to care but I wondered what they were doing so late.
There will be a few sore heads tomorrow in class I think.
fleetfootkath 