Born to set the people free

Advent started today and I'm thrilled, Christmas has officially begun! The advent season is probably my favorite time of the year in the church, I think it's the most joyous and hopeful time as well. I thought it would be nice to make a note on this blog for each Sunday in Advent, especially since I'm abroad and not attending my normal church. 

And of course, I can't leave out a Christmas song! But I couldn't decide which version of Come Thou Long Expected Jesus to include, so you get two versions. 

I'm also using this plan for daily advent devotionals, if you'd like to join me.  

wonders of wonders, miracles of miracles

Guys guys guys guys GUYS.

It's finally happened. 

I get French. 

This week has been full of lightbulb moments for me. Moments where everything clicked and suddenly I wasn't thinking in English anymore. Beautiful, beautiful moments full of months of hard work. 

This week has just been so gosh darn wonderful. I was on the phone with MB (my childhood bff) and she asked me if I'd accomplished what I wanted this semester. 

The answer is a big fat yes. 

People told me this moment would happen but I honestly didn't believe them. It's hard to think of the future when you can't even form a basic sentence. 

I'm gonna go to sleep with a big grin tonight. 

Think Pink!

I will never become tired of colorful buildings in this city! During my Sunday walk I passed by this...um, tree? (I have no idea what type it is! Any botanists out there?) I thought the red against the pale pink building was gorgeous and festive.

*Pssst! Happy Thanksgiving, Americans! Eat some pie for me!* 

Sunday Walk, pt 2.

Quebec is getting ready for Christmas and looking fairly gorgeous with twinkling lights on every available tree. This weekend all the Christmas markets begin, and I'm planning on attending all of them. What can I say? Christmas is my favorite holiday. I'll be sure to take pictures of all my activities especially since one of the markets is German. (Rumor has it that the spiced wine is amazing. I'll let you know!)  

Sunday Walk, pt. 1

It's become a tradition that I spend Sundays meandering around Quebec City. I say meandering because I have zero intent or purpose when I set out. Normally I'll buy a coffee and then just follow my feet.

On this particular walk I actually brought my real camera and became a little obsessed with the winter branches and plants against all the winter hues.

Parts Unknown: Quebec

My love for Anthony Bourdain is fierce. I've read all his books and watched every episode of all his television shows. He's even been my facebook picture. I think he's one of the most fascinating journalists and gourmands.

When I first started thinking about studying abroad in Quebec, I rewatched all his Canadian episodes. His newest show, Parts Unknown, features Quebec, province and city, in the first season, episode four.

I just rewatched that particular episode and I felt extremely excited because I recognized everything in that episode. I pass by all those buildings on a daily basis (what can I say, Quebec City is pretty small) and I'm thrilled that I can say "I've been there!" 

St. Lawrence River

November 2014