Little Gifts from God...or whatever you believe in :)

I'd like to talk about a few. I've been aware of so many lately, but particularly the park by my house. The petals are starting to fall from the roses, and the trees are starting to show the signs of autumn...yellow, orange, and red leaves are beginning to make an appearance. I go there to jog (which is exciting in and of itself because I was able to run a total of 18 minutes, 3 times 6 minutes, which I haven't been able to do in over a year), and I am struck everytime with the beauty of it all. The beauty of this city in general strikes me on a pretty regular basis. I'll just be walking down the street and look around and smile. It's pretty cool.

My other new little gift from God is my 9€ fancy ass phone. I can watch TV on it!!!! I get more stations than I would if it were a normal TV; it's like having basic cable. Now, in fairness, the screen is about 2 inches wide, but I don't care! I hadn't watched TV since I left home, so it was a joy to get to see the news, even if it was in miniature. I can do some surfing on the internet as well, but that's kind of limited. It's only touchscreen, no keypad, and I can take pictures or video. Far fancier than anything else I've ever had. I got it by getting a contract phone plan, which means I can talk on the phone more too. Hooray!

In other news, I've been experiencing an overwhelming sense of joy in the last few days. I'd venture to say that I've never been happier. Not sure what changed exactly, but I'm just thoroughly enjoying life. I'm trying to see the beauty in things and make the most of my time here.

I had my first 2 days of classes, and they don't seem like they'll be too hard. We'll see, but so far so good. I also think I found an volunteer opportunity. I may do one or two things with an organization that is called Secours Catholique...it's translation would be something like Catholic Rescue. Anyway, they have one opportunity that is for interviewing and just generally talking to recent immigrants in France. I get the impression most of them are here without papers and/or seeking asylum. The other thing involves going out with another person and giving coffe/tea to the homeless and talking with them. I am SOOO incredibly excited about this opportunity. As I set up my new life here, it is important for me to make this a part of my routine. In Austin, I found excuses to not donate my time and energy, and I didn't want to let that happen here.

Anyway, I now have a Salsa dance class, a few friends, a fancy phone, classes, a cute little room that is pretty well furnished, and a possible volunteer opportunity. Now all I need is a part-time job and a French boyfriend (or more French-speaking friends would probably work just as well), and I really wouldn't be able to ask for anything more. Even without those two things, life is pretty damn good! I couldn't be happier!