Hmm, things aren’t clicking so much for me today. That’s probably normal, I guess. It’s still a little discouraging. Speaking of which, the most difficult part of this experience so far has been the constant emotional fluctuation. One day I’m feeling great, gaining confidence, looking forward to things…and the next I’m depressed, discouraged, and wondering if things will get better or not. I think there are several factors at work in this little phenomenon. Two of the major ones are the people I’m around and the comfort level I’ve developed with certain situations, like walking around town, riding the bus, speaking with my host family, etc. I’m constantly making adjustments and accumulating new experiences, so it makes sense that I’m experiencing so many ups and downs. Anyway, I’ll be fine – it’s all part of the process, and I know I’ll be stronger for it at the end of this “sejour.”
I find myself not wanting to isolate myself a little more today, because if I see anyone, I have to speak French. Sometimes it’s just too frustrating. Oh well. I’m the kind of person who needs that space sometimes anyway. But, it did make me think about how much I need that personal connection with people, and how essential language is to that connection. I was created to live in community with others, sharing thoughts and emotions and common goals, and language is the vehicle for those things. After all, my thoughts don’t mean nearly as much when they live only in my head.
Classes were boring today because I’ve already learned le passé composé, l’imparfait, et le plus-que-parfait. I was actually so bored that I sketched a floor plan for a bedroom in my notebook. Hopefully it will help me remember some of the ideas I’ve gotten from staying in this house. I really couldn’t ask for a more comfortable place to stay – really. It’s wonderful. And, not only are the accommodations comfortable, but Mme. Falardeau does absolutely everything to put me at ease – even things I wouldn’t have thought of. I’m taking mental notes…
I toured Vieux Québec today with a group of students, and I really fell in love with that part of the city. It’s so beautiful. It smells strongly of horses (because of the carriages), but it’s still beautiful. Among other things, I passed by one of the oldest buildings in North America, the Chateau Frontenac, several beautiful parks, the Plains of Abraham, and plenty of shops and restaurants. Québec City can boast of being the home of most of the oldest buildings and sites in North America, including the oldest established parish. (1600s-early 1700s) I’ll probably return to Vieux Québec to explore it on my own sometime this weekend; wander-walking there is my idea of the perfect afternoon. (and the weather is beautiful for that sort of thing, too)
Fortifications near the Plains of Abraham
Charm is everywhere here.
Le Chateau Frontenac: the most photographed building in the world
Me standing at the edge of Haute-Ville, looking out over Basse-Ville and le Fleuve St-Laurent.
Sailboats on the St-Laurent
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