vive le france

       Dearest friends, you might be wondering why Ollie the Otter (henceforth referred to as Olivier la Loutre) has a beret on. Well, #1. I bought it at a rummage sale for him so it kind of fits in with the thriftyming theme, #2. he is celebrating Bastille day the only way he knows how, and most importantly #3. the time has come for a big announcement.....I have officially received my placement where I'll be working in France this fall! 


       Olivier was pretty upset that I forgot to bring him along to my last trip across the pond to study in Grenoble, so this time he is making sure that I don't make the same mistake when I head to Angers for 7 months in September! (Confused/never heard of Angers? Of course you haven't...see below!)

       Angers is the largest city in the Maine-et-Loire region, but at less than 1/3 of the population of Grenoble, that really isn't saying much.  However, based on my research it is a fun and quaint town that is known for its cut flowers (interesting claim to fame...). While there I will be a teaching assistant to an english professor for middle school to high school aged kids at Lycée Joachim du Bellay in Angers' downtown area.. 

Future lycée!

       It took me a long LONG time to decide whether or not to accept this position in France (and my deepest, sincerest gratitude goes out to all my friends/family/professors who discussed it at length with me back in May) but now that it's getting closer to the date I could not be more EXCITED that I did! I love Europe, I love France, I love cheese, and I love languages so this is sure to be an unforgettable experience.  Before my departure, though, I have many things to figure out and thankfully almost two months to do exactly that!!  Don't fear, though, I will ensure that I make time to continue being thrifty and crafty!

ming.