In class today we had a test and a debate on the pros and cons of eating meat. It was such fun and I can see already an improvement in my language ability. Even though it is tiring, a few more weeks and I might be able to move up a level. It is exciting to see improvement after four days!
We all felt energised by the debate so lunch was on again after we booked our wine tour for Friday. This time Ana the Finnish woman from Helsinki joined us..
We all went our separate ways after another delightful lunch in Parliament Square. Merel is off to a concert with a fellow student. I almost feel envious that they are both here for much longer than me, now I can see progress.
I took myself off to the Cathedral of Saint André and walked up to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of Bordeaux. It seemed tough climbing the steps after a three course lunch. 
The next stop was the Musée of Beaux Arts. I was excited to see two paintings by Henri Martin of the village Le Cirq-Popiere which we visited on the way from Le Puy to Cahors. I knew it instantly.
I decided to return home and thought I could catch the number 4 bus along the way. Unfortunately due to the roadworks the route has deviations. After two false stops and a trip over the rough footpath that sent me to my knees and dirtied my new White jeans(!) I decided to walk a few blocks back to where I usually catch the bus. I didn’t have to wait too long but was cross when I saw as we went along, I had passed near two stops from which I could have caught the bus. Extra walking in the heat was totally avoidable. I had confused the side of the street the bus would be on! I really could have walked the whole way.
Once home I set about booking my train ticket for Saturday. I am sorry to leave. This week has gone so fast and I am just beginning to feel comfortable (despite the bus muck up).
Tonight at dinner I got to roll the Grace dice. On each side of the dice there is a different form of grace. The kids role it and the family sings whatever grace appears before eating. It is done without any sense of self consciousness or stiffness. They are a very loving and caring family but not formal. Henri has set up a blow up pool in the backyard for the kids, he has been in it with them too. I think Astrid works hard and like most mums has very little personal time but never seems flustered or stressed. Everything is well organised and they spend time together. Virtually no TV but lots of toys and games. Ambroise is playing chess at seven but still wears a bib at the table to protect his clothes. It is a fascinating insight into one French Family. No yelling or fighting but still busy kids. Always dinner as a family. They could not be any more welcoming and helpful.
fleetfootkath 