So far...

These first few days in Paris have been both wonderful and much harder than I imagined they would be. It is absolutely paralyzing not to speak any French. It is one thing to be a tourist who doesn't speak the language but is only going to be in Paris for a few days and a very different thing to be living here. It has been frustrating this week to have to rely on Harlan for nearly everything. (Equally frustrating for Harlan because he has to be my chaperone to many places he would prefer not to go, e.g. H&M) I am pretty sure that most people I interact with during the day (or lack there of) think that I am either an abused wife whose husband speaks for her or that I have autism. Sales clerks will speak to me and either I have no idea that they are talking to me and just shuffling around the store OR they say something to me and I look at Harlan panicked and wait for him to answer.

But, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else! The city is magical! The boulangeries that line the streets are filled with the most incredible desserts I have ever seen. The food is unreal here. And yet, it is true that everyone is thin... I am so confused. Everything is loaded with delicious butter and cream and sugar! French is beautiful to listen to and everyone speaking it seems infinitely cooler than anyone I have ever met. The shoes and clothes are fantastic. And best of all Harlan is here!

We watched Amelie the other night. The movie is much more fun to watch in Paris... especially when you can pause it and say "Look that is where we walked today!"

In an effort to do something independent and combat the croissants, I took a yoga class today! It was great! The instructor was very patient and kind and would come over and correct me if I had obviously not understood her directions in french. The class is a mix of beginner types like me and two "injured dancers" who of course do not seem injured at all. So, it was a success! Oh and the best thing of all was that Harlan brought me a croissant after class (in case it was a disaster or as a congratulations)!