Bienvenue!

flâner-

se promener sans but,

sans hâte

et sans objet déterminé.

There is no English equivalent for the verb "flâner"-- mostly because it's not something at which we, as Americans, are very good. A "flâneur," or the feminine "flâneuse," is one who walks without purpose, without time constraint, and without final destination. It is someone who enjoys strolling in the city just to experience it. It is someone who loves the simple things in life.

If you are reading this blog, you have already heard the wonderful news: I am going to Paris on a study abroad! From September to December, I will be taking classes, living with a host family, and exploring one of the most breathtaking cities in the world. I am beside myself with excitement-- I am ready to become a flâneuse!

This week, I was able to register for my classes. Check out the workload:

• European Fine Arts (3 credits)

Ask me where this class is going to meet each week, and I'll tell you, "THE LOUVRE!" I have already applied for a year-long student membership to the museum, so I will have unlimited access to this monstrous museum. I was told that, even if one were to spend two straight months at the museum, she would never be able to see everything displayed inside. Well, I can try!

• Third Year French Conversation (2 credits)

My homework will be to practice speaking in French. I'll be carrying a little notebook in my pocket to record new words and phrases that I learn. Could education be more fun?

• Advanced Francophone Culture (3 cred its)

The history and culture of French-speaking countries. This class counts toward my French major, and it will culminate with a large research paper. The textbook for this class is a small spiral-bound book of maps, with suggested "walks" outlined in arrows. Homework = exploring.

• Studies in French Culture (3 credits)
  

This is actually a history class AND a photography class, all rolled into one. Our class will meet in a given location, discuss the history of the area, and learn about photography at the same time. Of all the photography subjects to choose from, Paris will be a great place to snap pictures.

• Religious Studies in a World Setting (2 credits)

At BYU, students are expected to complete a certain number of religion credits, and there are many classes from which one may choose. These classes include world religions, Biblical studies, and genealogy. For those who understand BYU lin go, this is my "institute" class. In other words, I will be taking this world religion class in a small Mormon church in Paris, where I will also attend church on Sundays.

My friends, this is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. I am so grateful to my family for supporting me in my endeavors; without their help, I would still be dreaming of this opportunity. I look forward to many more posts in the future, as I prepare for and eventually arrive in France. That's the whole reason I created this blog-- to post outrageous stories and pictures for you to enjoy (and to satisfy my mother, who is already worrying about me). This is the place to ask questions, post comments, and make requests... and I promise that I'll keep you up to date on my adventures!

Until next time. À bientôt!

-Megan
(flâneuse)


P.S. This is my favorite fountain in Paris. It is in front of the Palais de Chaillot, right next to the Eiffel Tower. I can't wait to dip my feet in it again!