1) Where are you?!
A: We are in Melun, France, (say “Moo-laun” – yes, like the Disney movie, Mulan) which is located about 40 minutes southeast of Paris. We have a direct train that can get us to the station at Paris-Lyon in 25 minutes if we get desperate. Melun is situated on the Seine River, and is complete with several outdoor cafés, bakeries, a downtown shopping district, and flower arrangements.
2) What do you do?
A: Three times a week I play volleyball with the La Rochette Volley Nationale 3 team. I am also coaching their 2nd level adult team (Regionale 3) and 11s/12s (Benjamines Volley) teams twice a week.
3) Do you have to speak French?
A: Have to?! We get to! Being in Belgium last spring was a huge help with this, and learning the language is a form of survival here. We are in full cultural immersion mode.
4) Do you have a car?
A: Nope! We are within a 30 minute walk of everything we could possibly need; a car is unnecessary and impractical with the gas prices (at 1,40 euro per liter, this translates to roughly $8/gallon – no thanks) and dangers of driving a stick shift.
5) What is your living situation like?
A: We live in The Loft. It really is just the attic of a house divided into apartments. It is about 20x25 feet; just imagine one side of the volleyball court a little smaller and more rectangular. Everything is brand new and clean, and it has all the essentials. Even a poetry window!
6) What did you do with all your stuff in America?
A: We sold and gave away most of it! What is left fits under a bed and inside a closet at my parents’ house. We definitely downsized and have enjoyed experiencing a life without baggage!
7) Can I come visit?
A: Yes, but within reason, of course! The Loft is a studio apartment with the only “room” being the bathroom. We do not as of yet have another sleeping arrangement besides our own bed, but I am working on this. Always check with me well ahead of time before you buy tickets of any kind, and if you say you are coming for a month, expect me to tell you “no.” We do want you to visit, but we also need to maintain a balance between hosting visitors and living our actual lives. Definitely no kids or pets allowed. Ever.
8) What do you eat?
A: Whatever is put in front of us! This ranges from all kinds of cheeses, vegetables, fish, meats, breads, crackers, nuts, etc. The only things I ever say “no” to are the alcohol, and extra helpings.
9) Why do you keep referring to “we?”
A: Because Marc got to come this time around! He is currently job searching, and trying to keep up with the great time I’m having.
10) Why are you doing this?
laughed out loud as i pictured two people living on half of a volleyball court. such an adventure!
ReplyDeleteC'est tres bon et tres agreable! Merci pour les nouvelles!
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