Avignon, etc.

This week we visited the beautiful neighboring town of Avignon, where we saw the Palais des Papes, great views, and lots of action in town.  I've posted some pics below.  Other highlights of the week--Montpellier is hosting the RadioFrance Music Festival, so I saw a symphony, a pianist, and an opera, all of which were fantastic!  I also got in plenty of excitement before the piano concert, when I was sitting on a bench in front of this huge playground eating a baguette before I had to go in.  Something was kind of going on with this big group of guys in the park like 50 yards away, but I wasn't really paying attention until they actually started fighting--punching, kicking, and then one of them pulled out a knife and stabbed another guy in the leg.  A cop car showed up with 2 cops, but instead of scattering, the guys started trying to beat up the cops, and then more cops came, and started beating them with their baton things, and all the mothers with their poor traumatized children were scattering all over the place.  It was all very dramatic.  I was this close to filming it on my camera for youtube, but I figured it was probably better to give up my front row seat...

Also, the first half of the program is officially over tomorrow, and there's a ton of turnover, so I'll be without internet for a while, at least until late next week, I'm guessing.  I'm going to spend the little break in between sessions in Grenoble, taking day trips to the Vercors, the beautiful mountains around the city.  Miss you all, and I just love getting all your comments! I don't know how to respond to them, but I can chat by e-mail.  I have a blog to keep you updated about what I'm up to, but don't forget to let me know what's going on in your lives!  

Palais des Papes

Festival D'Avignon, the entire month of July is all about the theatre--everyone comes out on the street to show off their talents and lure you into their show.  Try and spot the trumpet player on the merry-go-round.  I also attached a video of another unique sight.  

I know arts and crafts are for kindergartners, but I love this stuff.  I made fresh lavender potpourri (the signature scent of the South) with sprigs from outside our classroom.  The blossoms are tucked on the inside under that ribbon.  They smell amazing!