Rain, rain go away

Good afternoon dear blog readers,

On my way home from work, the heavens opened and I got absolutely drenched. Nice one, France!

So since my negative post this time last week, I'm aiming for a positive one this time.

Last weekend, I popped to Chartres to see the other lovely assistants there. On the Saturday, we had a little mooch around the town and climbed the cathedral tower which was cool. Then for lunch, we stepped into a crêperie called La Picoterie. Unusually, although not for France, they sat us down, lured us into a false sense of security and then warned us firmly that the kitchens would close if we didn't order immediately. In a panic, I quickly ordered a salad, which actually turned out to be an excellent choice.

Then, as evening dawned, we assistants got together for my first "Pot Luck" (which is basically a picky tea where everyone brings some food to share). Later on, we hit up "L'Exotique" for a nice boozy end to the evening.

The day after, suffice to say we were all feeling less than spritely, so settled into a day of lazing around and playing cards. Big thanks to Alli, Christina and Michael for being such kind hosts.

This week has had its fair share of ups and downs. The new timetable seems to be proving a little too complicated for all those involved, resulting in absentees and confused teachers all over the show. On Monday, I was invited to a family's house to proof-read a business plan in English and then for dinner. My worst nightmare occurred and I was presented with fish. Saying this, it was actually a very delicious piece of fish and I felt very satisfied when I gobbled it all up. At the end of the evening, I was given a bit of money too for my troubles which I didn't expect and really appreciated. They proposed that I go every week for dinner and conversation classes, another one in the bag!

Yesterday, I was invited to an evening of bowling followed by drinks and galettes/crêpes with all the young teachers. It was really good to finally spend time with my colleagues and it was rather a lot of fun.

So now, I have to think of my speech for tomorrow evening, when I will tell the families from hell that I don't want to deal with their snot faced little kids any more.
Wish me luck!