Chocolat, fromage et vin, oh my!
Danielle referred me to the quotes section of her facebook profile, as we are wont to share favorite passages of the books we read. One spoke of wanting to spend a life travelling- had the author but another to spend at home. I love seeing the world – from the small things like how windows open differently and keyboards are different to the large like acceptable driving practices or how the school systems work. But I do hope to always have a home that I may return to. At this point, I don’t think the nomadic life would suit me indefinitely.
I think the biggest, or at least my favorite, life lesson (vs. cultural or academic or whatnot) has been that panic is optional. This realization approached upon my departure from the Eurostar in Paris. Three weeks in the English speaking Britain was a lovely way to get my feet wet in Europe. Then I set off for the continent where comprehension (or at least a common language) would not be a given. Leaving London, I was thrilled to continue my adventure…but arriving was another story. Walking down the eternal platform in the Gare du Nord, I reminded myself of the hitchhikers’ “motto” – Don’t Painic. And so I didn’t. It was wonderful to discover I could simply decide to chill out and enjoy the ride, bumpy though it may be.
Bustling, chic and independent London I found delightful. Small-town girl though I am, I could see myself living there, should the opportunity arise. However, as I have shared with some, that could hardly last forever, and I think I love the four seasons too much to truly abandon them.
Now in Swityerland, I am enjoying a laid back taste of the French-Swiss life before diving into Paris on Sundaz. And you will be pleased, I believe, to know I am being somewhat adventurous (for me at least). This self-professed anti-coffee, hot chocolate lover has had four cups of European coffee (not espresso though haha)…and I liked it 
. The verdict is still out on how this will affect my life upon returning.
Life is full of surprises and made for sampling. Glad you’ve discoverd coffee. I’m sure when you experience it at a sidewalk cafe’ in Paris you will truly appreciate it. (with a small square of dark chocolat on the side)
LUV U
Peter said this on Friday, September 12, 2008 at 17:46 pm
Okay. I think I’ve read enough travel memoirs about France to actually be able to tell that the title of this post means “Chocolate, Cheese, and Wine”– is that right? I should probably switch my major to French.
I hope you have a lovely time in Switzerland. I look forward to hearing more about your adventures!
Danielle said this on Friday, September 12, 2008 at 18:22 pm
I believe that is how I became to enjoy (not addicted to) coffee, kind of a transition from Hot Chocolate. It came to me much later in life though (only around 7 years ago). As your Dad mentioned, that is what defines life, our willingness to discover new ways to experience our world. Make sure you expand your adventure to all the different foods you come across as well. Just do yourself the favor of not asking what it is until AFTER you try it. Trust me on that one.
James said this on Friday, September 12, 2008 at 18:24 pm
That hitchhiker’s motto is going to be very important for me I think! Thanks for the reminder! I leave tomorrow!!
heatherland said this on Saturday, September 13, 2008 at 21:12 pm
Chocolat, fromage et vin, oh my!… you mean this doesn’t mean
Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh My!???
Your not in Kansas anymore!
Blessings and Safety
Michael said this on Tuesday, September 16, 2008 at 02:27 am
“Panic is optional”–wow. That’s very far from the way I think. I need to change that, though.
“And you will be pleased, I believe, to know I am being somewhat adventurous (for me at least).” That made me laugh. You’re traveling alone in Europe, but drinking coffee is adventurous? Silly girl! =P
Lalaith said this on Tuesday, September 16, 2008 at 07:15 am