Exploring Paris on my own

Today we got out of class at 12 instead of 1 since we have finals tomorrow. I'm not too worried about finals, so I decided to do a little last minute sightseeing and exploring before I hit the books. Everyone was too tired or too busy packing/studying, so I decided I'd just go exploring by myself. I realized this meant navigating the metro, but decided I was up to the challenge.

I dropped off my books and mapped out my plan of attack. I wanted to go to the Musee D'Orsay, Notre Dame, and Les Invalides. They were all on the same metro line, so it worked out perfectly! First stop was Musee D'Orsay which is an Impressionist art museum. This was the stop I was most excited about. A lot of the people on the trip had been and given it rave reviews, so I was pumped. Upon arriving, though, I learned the museum is closed on Mondays. Bummer!! I was super disappointed, but there's always tomorrow. I grabbed a sandwich at a nearby patisserie and hopped back on the metro.

Next stop was Notre Dame. Luckily, it was open and free to get in! :] Notre Dame is absolutely breathtaking. It is so impressive. I really enjoyed leisurely walking through the cathedral by myself. There was quiet music playing in the background, but besides that it was silent. After walking around the entire thing, I sat down in a chair and prayed and enjoyed the music. It was so relaxing. Definitely what I needed.

After Notre Dame I shopped for souvenirs. Let me just say that I got some of the greatest souvenirs. I bought souvenirs for my grandparents, parents, and sister. Usually, I'm not great at the whole gift buying thing, but today I was on top of my game. Somehow I found the perfect thing for everyone. Amazing! :] Can't wait to give them to you guys!

Les Invalides was the next stop on my journey. Les Invalides is the site of Napoleon's tomb and also houses armor and weapons. I'm gonna be completely honest, I know little to nothing about Les Invalides, but I wanted to go anyways. I actually ended up liking it. I saw Napoleon's tomb and lots and lots of swords, guns, and armor. I found one sword covered in gold fleur di lis. Kappa sword, oui n'est pas? HA HA Napoleon's tomb is ridiculous. Its huge. Like, literally HUGE! Wait 'till you guys see the pictures! Now, that is what you call a tomb.

After Les Invalides, I started the long trek home. On a whim, I decided to pop into a store close to our house. I ended up finding a cute black dress I think I'm going to wear to tomorrow's farewell dinner with the group. Its simple and sophisticated, so very me!! :] I plan on pairing it with my bright red pointy toe flats. I'm pretty excited, not gonna lie.

Being able to navigate the metro and city by myself made me feel so self-sufficient. I loved it! I think that's one thing I've learned during my time here, how to do things for myself. I mean, I know in college you have to be independent, but its totally different being in a foreign country alone. I've really learned that I can do things by myself, even if it takes a few tries. My map reading skills have also really improved. (Emily and Dad, I can practically hear you laughing!! :] )

I'm back at the apartment now. Its ridiculously hot. Whoever thought it would be okay to not have AC in Paris is out of their minds. I'm sweating. Seriously considering hopping in the shower and just standing under the cold water. No, but seriously. This morning I took the coldest shower ever, on purpose. It was probably the best shower yet. I woke up so hot! Anyways, we'll have our final dinner with our Madame around 8, then its study time for me! I'm so sad about our last dinner here tonight! I love our madame and her cooking! We're gonna take pictures with her tonight, so I'll have those to show everyone soon!! :]

Tomorrow, we're probably gonna go on a boat ride on the seine. My roommate, Sarah, went last night and said it was amazing! Apparently, you see all the major sights in Paris. Cool, huh?

Less than 48 hours and I'll be home! Everyone get excited!!! :] I cannot wait to tell you all more stories and show more pictures IN PERSON!! :] Yay!!