wonderful weekend

To say the least, my week has been quite fabulous.

I drove out of Dallas on Friday night to be reunited after a long 3 1/2 months away from my dear friend Stephanie, who is currently attending Baylor. We did our normal Waco things like Practically Pikasso, Pei Wei, Teriyaki Park, Jamba Juice, and Common Grounds. It almost felt like I just came over to her house from my apartment that was 5 minutes away, but then I remembered that I graduated and will be moving to France in 3 weeks. Oops.

My unfinished hand-painted espresso cup & saucer, inspired by a Pikasso sketch.

Upon seeing lots of familiar faces on Friday night, I responded to the statement “I thought you were in France already!” about 50 times, saying “No, no, I still have 3 weeks.” While ending our night in line at the beloved Scruffy Murphy’s (a local Waco bar frequented by every Baylor student on every weekend ever), my group & I even ran into 2 French exchange students. I mean really, on the one night I’m in Waco at this one bar at this certain time, the Frenchies are in line right behind us? It’s destiny. I got to speak some French and chat with one of them about Lille – his hometown. Such a small world!

visa #2!

It’s August, so that means it’s time for a trip to the French Consulate in Houston – right?

Apparently. Last year, I had my interview for my first French visa for my exchange program through Baylor. This year, it was time to step it up. I was interviewed for my second French visa for my teaching assistant position. Just like last year, I made my drive more bearable by stopping in College Station to visit one of my best friends, Helen. I stayed for a couple of days and was glad to be able to spend some quality time with her and her dogs (my god-puppies).

Dexter & Zeus!

We talked about my upcoming appointment, and she told me that we should make this visit a yearly tradition – you know, every year before I get my French visa, I should come visit her. Ha!