2013 in a nutshell

I know I haven't updated in a while so here we go!

So, I've just finished my first semester of graduate school...go me! I wouldn't say that it has been any harder nor easier than I thought. My class load isn't bad and I mostly enjoy the subject matter. Biggest change has been getting used to the French university system (because it is completely backwards and no one ever knows what is going on) as well as a few professors who openly do not like Americans. Nice right? oh well. People are entitled to their own opinions. Grades are not completely available until the spring but I think I did well. Next semester will be even better!

Bordeaux: COLD. But, always beautiful. I am still loving living here and I am glad I chose to be here. The Christmas lights on the Cours Mirabeau in Aix were stunning but I have to admit that I am loving walking around Bordeaux by night just to stare at the light displays. It is absolutely stunning.

Coming here has been a great decision. I'm learning some tough lessons but loving every moment. It was a dream...that is now a reality and I love it! My Dad has already been to visit and my Mom will be here in about a month! Then, the whole fambam will come in July. I can't wait to continue to share the life I am building here in France with my family. I am extremely for all of the support they have given me. I have found it is harder to be gone this time around but they are always right there when I need them. I love you guys! I am also extremely lucky to have my "french family" who makes sure I don't start to miss my fambam too much. They are amazing!

I cannot believe we are nearing the end of 2013!!! And what a year it has been! I graduated from college, got into graduate school, and moved to a foreign country. Crazy right? What is even more insane is that it all happened in a year. It has flown by! For the first time ever, I will not be with my family for the holiday season. It isn't easy and it is safe to say that I will spend Christmas 2014 in San Diego. But, being on my own has taught me a few things and it has made me more grateful for what I have. So, what am I most thankful for this year?

1) my family: I love and miss you guys so much! I wouldn't be able to be here without their support. Plus my Mom does put together great care packages ;) they help keep my "America" cravings at bay :) I really cannot wait to share my second home with them! Bordeaux vacation 2014...it will be a  good one! :)

2) my friends: it is not easy to be away from you guys! Long distance friendships take a ton of work and I am so thankful to have a handful of friends that are as close if not even closer, than ever. With Skype, iMessage and FaceTime, it is as if you guys are here with me! Special thanks to my best friends (you know who you are!) and our ridiculous FaceTime sessions and text messages. I love and miss you all!

3) this opportunity: how lucky am I? I have this amazing opportunity to live in France. I have two homes...one here and one of course, in dear old San Diego! AMAZING! not to mention I get to further my education...double win! After my year in Aix, I thought I had learned a lot about myself and who I am. Now, I am continuing to grow even more. I think my greatest influence this time around, has been myself. Only I can control what I want to accomplish. All I have to do is put my mind to it and its mine! Look out 2014...I'm going to accomplish big things 

:)

"It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done."