Random

Since the last time we wrote I found a job, so time is getting a little more sparse. But there's just as much as ever to see and do. Above are some random pictures from things we've done.

One night at the Hotel de Ville, the city hosted a function for Amererican students in the city and someone passed the word on to me, so we took advantage of the free drinks and snacks. You usually also have to pay to see the inside of the building, which is incredible, so that was another bonus. Since the event was at night and I don't have a tripod, all of the pictures are too dark, but if you look closely you can get an idea for how grandiose and elaborate the building is.

Above those pictures are two of an area called the Guillotiere, which is at the end of the Rue de Marseille. It's an area with lots of immigrants, oriental patisseries, people hanging out on the street, cafes, and it's always very lively. The pictures show a line of men who are always hanging out in front of the curved building, a student residence. Behind them, close to where I'm taking the picture, there are usually more men and then veiled women with babies in carriages. I have no idea how these people make a living or what they do just in life. There's always something to see, though. It might be one of my favorite streets.

Of course I'm posting more photos of typical Lyon pastries, a random citrus fruit I found at an epicerie from China, which is the size of a cantaloupe, and then a hike we have to take every time we go grocery shopping. It always wears us out, but the view is so beautiful it's worth it. I feel so lucky to be in such a scenic area when doing something mundane like grocery shopping.

Here's one side note: we have this stereotype of French people saying "ooh la la" all the time. It's true! They say it ALL the time, but usually it's more like "oooh la LA la la la la," and it's more out of exasperation.

Et voila! Ca c'est tout!