A bientot Paris!

So, I know this is a little out of order but I want to catch this moment. When I was first selected for this trip I was nervous, excited, and even a little scared. I was the only one who is a biology major. I've always had a love for art and dreamt of seeing Paris. But, never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would be selected!  So when I was selected and seen all of my soon to be classmates never did I expect what followed.
Our first day here we found out who our roommates were and I didn't know any of these students. So, no matter what I was rooming with someone I knew nothing about. (I'm sure you're thinking you're a veteran this is NOT something new to you). But for whatever reason it was a little scary to go through this again. But, my roommate, Donna, was the oldest student on the trip. Which for me is fine. I normally get along better with older women. I'm just an old soul at heart. Little did I know I got the best roommate ever. She was so sweet made me food 9 times out of 10. Dealt with my rough around the edges attitude and did it all with a smile.   She never once made me feel like a jerk for expressing my opinion so dragging her all over gods green earth out here. She actually enjoyed being forced out of her comfort zone. Although I think she always doubted my internal compass. (Are you SURE we are supposed to go this way???) but in the long run she really was an amazing roommate.
Next were my classmates. When we first got here it was only about noon when we left on our 13 hour flight it was 3pm. So we all groggily wandered around France while trying to get our bearings. I felt out of place and almost like the worlds luckiest outsider. I figured if nothing else I was going to see as much of France even if it meant going on my own. My roommate thought otherwise. If I was going somewhere she wanted to see it too.
So after my first week here I immediately realized that my roommate was my new best friend I could talk to her and she understood how I felt and was impressed how I dealt with stress. I slowly began to open up to my classmates and know each of them on a better level. My next partner in crime was Gabby. She decided to trust me enough to get us to Versailles and back. Which if you read earlier posts you'll know how that turned out. Sometimes I miss read things a get a little disoriented. But she was such a good sport about everything.
It wasn't till this past week that I got to know everyone else in my class. They each have such unique backgrounds and personalities that I'll treasure each one. Justine is by far the silliest, sweetest girl I've met for a long time. If I had a little sister I could easily image her being just like Justine. Walter dealt with chick shopping more than any man should. And most of the time did it with a smile on his face. Sebastian is such a caring and funny guy. I'm glad to have met you. Cailey is such a sweet compassionate girl. It was fun hanging out with you and telling my life's story. Lol you made me remember things that I haven't thought about in years. Riley was the most bubbly sweet and happy-go-lucky girl I ever met. I envy you for you lightheartedness.  Evan was a little bit tougher nut to crack. But once he did I could tell he was a good guy. ( I'm glad he and Sebastian enjoyed the pan chocolat I bought for them). Ryan was another tough one. He seemed so serious and tough to joke with. But I found out that he just has a very satirical sense of humor. ( he's also an amazing photographer). Rylann is such a sweet and innocent girl. But she is also caring and understanding. Mary was another non art major selected for the trip. She is a sociology grad and is one of the most outspoken people I've ever known.  I'm never going to forget being on the bus with you. You're such a wild woman!  Alayna is the girl with the bright blue hair and the kindest heart.  Our conversation at the beer academy made me remember why I fell in love with my husband. Gabby, oh gabby, where do I begin? She was brave enough to venture out with me anywhere and everywhere. You made me laugh till I cried. You bought shoes that cost 120 euro!! And you listen to me complain about things in my life. All of you have made such a HUGE impact on my life! I can't even begin to describe, fully, how much. I didn't think it was possible for me to grow anymore as a person but I have and I'm glad!  You have all taught me that it's ok for me to be loud, ridiculous, and just be myself.
There is where the second half of this experience has led me. I know I heard a lot of people
 saying that Paris is a life changing experience. But, I never believed it was possible.  But it's amazing how much your life changes when you are dropped into a world where not many people can understand what you're saying. And you basically just have to point and grunt at what you want.  And have no idea how to go further than a mile from where you're living without being lost. .Or even find a store where you know how much you owe without having to see the total displayed on thier screen. Now I'm not going to say that in three weeks I speak perfect French or I know all the ins and outs of the city. But I definitely know how to order some gelato and find my way around town.

Finally the art aspect of this trip. So, as I've said in the beginning. I've done art for as long as I can
remember. And in the past few years I've kind of let my art abilities sit on a shelf while I hit the books for my biology degree.   I had never seen any major artists work in person let alone see where they

created their famous works. This trip truly inspired me to appreciate every moment.  And to never give up on my art again. I've learned how to adapt to new surroundings and how to deal with difficult situations. Don't take your life for granted try to walk and enjoy the scenery and don't be afraid to be yourself.  Take chances and enjoy every moment!  Thank you my friends for making this trip an amazing experience!