I'm writing this blog just after my last, but I wanted to split it up because there was a lot of stuff from yesterday. Today was again a long, fun, busy day. Manu made lunch (curried chicken and rice), and Leo and Sebastien + friend (older host brothers) visited and ate with us. Manu taught me how to play chess after lunch, and when Anne returned from work, we jumped in the car for another day trip. This one turned out to be to some river-trekking adventure in the mountains. The ride there was beautiful, and we stopped by this remote area, where we had to descend a rocky, steep trail to get to the water. I was very proud I didn't fall, but there were some moments where I was pretty close. There were a few other people at the swimming area, but it wasn't an official beach or anything.
I must say I was kind of surprised, (being the American that I am) when everyone started changing into their bathing suits right on the river bank. No one seemed concern about being exposed in public, so I didn't make a big deal out of it, but I must admit, it felt a little weird.
The water was absolutely freezing in the river! It's apparently a river that flows directly from the Alps, so I'm not lying when I say the water is ice cold. I went cliff-jumping with Charlotte a couple times, but no one stayed in for very long. We got out and basked in the sun, and Sebastien, Anne, Antoine, and I decided to go on this trek through the forest. We must have looked like the weirdest group of people, walking barefoot in our bathing suits through all these trees and bushes, but we had a pretty good time.
When we got home, I spoke to my parents on Skype, and I was so happy to hear from them. I do miss my family, but my French host family has been very good at making me feel welcome and they always keep me busy, so it's a good distraction. Tomorrow, we're headed for the Mediterranean, so I'm charging my camera, preparing to wake up semi-early, and mentally packing a bag. It should be another long day in the sun, and I'll try to update you all soon!
It was wonderful to talk to you, too, sweet!
ReplyDeleteI think your French mom has much more energy than I do after a day of work!
You are true trooper, an ideal exchange student to be able to adapt so well. Just don't plan to streak through Privas or your visit might end before you have a chance to experience it all. Four days and you already have experienced so much more than most tourists do during an entire trip.
ReplyDeleteEXCUUUSE ME?! Where was my Skype call, missy?! Also - I have worked very hard to build up your so called, "American" sensibilities to not change in the middle of the woods. Think of the dirt, and the bugs, and the... (insert gasp here) boys! Hayley darling, do I have to come over there so soon?!
ReplyDeleteI look forward to reading your updates!
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