Almost there!!!

Ok...So it has definitely been a stressful week. I went to the consulate last Tuesday, documents in hand and hoping to get a visa, but alas, my documents were not all correct. Apparently I misread one of my letters from the school thinking it covered everything...tuition, accomodation, food, and a stipend. However, it didn't mention the stipend, so I was told to come back the next week with a financial guarantee from my dad, stating he could cover costs and whatnot. After dealing with two very bureaucratic entities, the consulate and the bank, it has left me feeling a bit like I am tangled in red tape. Anyway it is now next week, and I have to go to the consulate tomorrow morning. Oh, by the way, my flight to France is ALSO TOMORROW. MEGA STRESS. Essentially, I have to go in to the consulate first thing in the morning, beg for my visa, and if I get it, leg it to the airport.

I have a couple of goals for when I first arrive in Amiens. Other than the intensive French classes I will be taking for the first two weeks, I am looking forward to exploring 'my new city' and finding my own little places to go. Which ever city I am living in, I like to find my own 'hangout', so to speak. For example, in Preston, I used to enjoy going to the Caffe Nero in the town centre. In Boston, I loved going to Coolidge Corner, and either getting lunch or seeing a movie. So, in Amiens, I think it will be fitting to try a bunch of different cafés and see which one suits me. I am also planning on finding a yoga studio. I have learned this summer, that it is definitely difficult for me to function without my yogic stress relief! So...in the next few weeks expect plenty of reviews of cafés and whatnot!

Wish me luck! I am really nervous, but I know once I get there I will definitely enjoy it!