It's official, yesterday was my four month anniversary with France and the half-way mark of my year abroad. It's unbelievable how fast the last four months have gone, but I also feel like I've been here forever. I think France and I are meant to be. I'm already planning my return...I'm always working on some sort of wild plan:-)

This week was the first week of second semester for me and the first week of classes in France for Kelly. All of my classes stayed the same with the same professers which is good for me because I'm comfortable in them and we're just continuing from last semester. I've improved so much, but I feel like I still have a long way to go. I knew there were a lot of rules in the french language before I came, but since being here I've realized it's never ending!! Right now Kelly and I have one elective together, but she is trying to change levels so there is a good chance we will have more together starting next week. It's so fun having her here, it's been a long time since we've lived in the same place.

Last weekend Kelly and I and a few friends went to Marseille for the day. We have passes so each ride to and from Marseille is one only one euro! We spent the afternoon walking around the port, exploring the shops and the fresh fish market...there was a live octopus there! We eventually took a tour bus up to the top of the city and visited the large Marseille Cathedral, Notre Dame de la Garde. We also got to see Chateau D'If where the Conte of Monte Cristo is set which was so cool. When my mom comes in two weeks we're going to take a ferry out the island and go in the Chateau, I'm so excited! When my mom comes we'll be spending four days here in Aix and surrounding towns, and then five days in Paris which Kelly will get to see the real Notre Dame!!

Next weekend Kelly and I are meeting my boyfriend, Evan who is studying abroad this year in Birmingham, England, in the Netherlands. We're flying there on Friday the 5th and returning Monday the 8th. I'm really excited to go. We are planning quite a few weekend trips to Portugal, Ireland, England, Spain and Corsica. Ryanair and Easyjet are lifesavers! You can get all around Europe for such great prices.

The last two weeks I've been showing Kelly the ropes. I've introduced her to so many people, I'm sure she is overwhelmed, but I know she is having an amazing time! We went out with a big group of friends on Tuesday which was really fun. She has gotten lost a few times around Aix, but I think she is finally get her bearings. Since we don't have the same class schedule she has done some exploring, and of course some shopping. In France every January there is a month long post-christmas sale that is mandatory. She came at the perfect time! She bought a pair of beautiful boots and got a great deal on them. She has already informed me that tomorrow is a designated shopping day:-) Sisters are great aren't they?!