I think I'm growing up.....and the "ghettoization" of France....(July 22, 2008)

Tonight we went out as a group for one of our "last meals together". We were going to do it Thursday (because a couple of folks are leaving on Friday), but the CUEF decided to throw a petanque (boules) tournament and barbecue Thursday night, so we had to move it up. We went back to the little restaurant that Allison and I discovered on Sunday. Several had the raclette, and I had the tartiflette, a cheese/bacon/onion/potato dish. It was very tasty! More comfort food! Here's the part that will shock all of my friends and family....after dinner I voluntarily ordered an espresso, and even enjoyed it! I have decided that since I can only drink a few sips of coffee at a time, espresso might be the way for me to go if I want to join the adult crowd!

In case anyone doesn't know, today is Mark's and my 25th wedding anniversary! I personally can't believe we are that old, but it is what it is! We sent each other e-cards, and will go out to celebrate after I return to Lubbock and things settle down.

We think we've figured out how and when to see the Tour de France pass through here on Thursday. We're going to have to cut class to see it, but we Americans think it's worth it! (I haven't missed a single class so far, so I think I'm entitled!)

Unfortunately, we have all noticed that the young people of France are falling victim to the ghetto mentality.....rap music, lack of respect for others, sagging pants, etc. The graffiti has gotten worse and worse every year that I come. At this very moment there is a guy parked in the street right under our windows playing his rap music at full volume, and it's 11 p.m.! William has called the office to complain, and they said they would call security. The guy is drinking and so far has gotten out of his car to relieve himself twice. William has tried to politely ask him to turn down his music, but either he cannot hear him or is ignoring him. After two calls from William, a couple of security guys finally showed up. They had quite a heated discussion with the man, and then walked off. After a bit he turned on his music again, but atleast he was not playing it as loud as before. I don't understand why people think the whole world wants to listen to their music. Oh well, enough ranting and raving, I'm going to try to sleep through it!

Bonne nuit!