Go socialism?

Allo mes americains.

Lisa and I caved. We decided to go to an agency (Espace Location) to aid us in our appartement pursuit, costing us 90 euros each. The price is for unlimited help until we find a home; however, who knows how long that could be. Despite that, the woman helping us is going far beyond her duties to help us limited French-speaking Americans, so we are very appreciative of that. I have faith that we will have an address by the weekend. Dear France, I'm going broke going out to eat all the time, and my futzy stomach does not appreciate it. Thanks, Steph.

We had orientation yesterday with our dear JOUVE Fabien, where we filled out paperwork, learned a bit about our duties as teaching assistants, and filled out more paperwork. The French really like paperwork. We need social security, a carte de sejour (another visa), a medical visit, and the CAF (la caisse d'allocations families) to subsidize our rent because with our assistant's salary, we're considered to be somewhat on welfare. Point for you France and your socialism!

We continue to meet more and more people, which has been one of my favorite parts of the program thus far. I am learning so much already about other people, where they come from, what they're doing here....I know I have said this before, but I find it so important to get out there and learn about others and their cultures to get a more wide perspective of the world. It's just fascinating to me. We met a great Canadian couple last night in the Noria, and seriously, after learning more and more about Canada's economy, health care, welfare, education, living there certainly seems appealing. Besides the cold weather, of course.

For some good news, Lisa and I finally got blankets from our dorm, so now we don't have to use our coats anymore to sleep. That was a major bonus. We christened them yesterday after getting take-out and watching a bit of 30 Rock, then proceeding to nap for a few hours before we realized we should go out into civilization. There was a guitar hero event in La Comédie where they set up a stage and screen; Wesley and I signed up to go but we left before our turn came. Yes, the French like guitar hero. We went to an Irish pub after, but couldn't stay long, because the tram closes really early on week nights.

We just got kicked out of McDonalds. Apparently buying drinks and "le fruit croquer" isn't enough during the lunch hours, as loads of children and adults come to McDo during this time. Yes, I mean hours. Not a typo. I don't think people in Montpellier actually work; I never see anyone in a suit, and la Comédie is always packed with people.

Oh! And we figured out the protests. In actuality, they aren't protests. It's like initiation for med students at the university.

Lisa and I are off to the agency to see what they have for us today! Wish us luck!