Day 3

mercredi, le 10 juin

Well, a change of plans from last night! We decided to go up the Eiffel Tower when we get back into Paris this weekend. We went, instead, to the beautiful art district called Montmartre that rests at the top of a big hill that gives a similarly breathtaking view of Paris. Next to the art district is a large basilica called Sacre Coeur. As we walked through the solemn aisles, the students witnessed a traditional Catholic mass in progress. It was great for them to see and learn that these buildings, although famous monuments, remain sacred through the centuries. The students are loving the sites and enjoying the food (especially the crêpes au Nutella).

Today we left Paris early and headed out into the beautiful countryside of Normandie. The students discovered the town of Rouen where timbered houses are common. Enjoying the slower pace of a smaller town, the students meandered through the streets where Claude Monet once stayed, leading him to paint the Cathedral Notre Dame de Rouen (multiple times to capture the light at different times of day, thus creating the Impressionist movement). They learned about Jeanne d'Arc (Joan ofArc) and finally the location of her demise in the small town.

Timbered houses of Rouen

After a lunch of pizza...yes, pizza, we continued our travels to a local farm that is famous for their delicious goat cheese. We tasted many types of goat cheese...which would have paired well with wine, but alas, it's not that kind of trip. ACIS has created an amazing and true cultural experience!

   Our pizza lunch in Rouen

     

At the Goat Farm

After getting our share of cheese, we hopped back on the bus and continued to our new home in Caen for the next three nights. We dined at a lovely restaurant and walked it off by discovering our new surroundings.  

During our walk, our amazing 24-HR ACIS Tour Manager, Marie-Helene, taught the students a dance from the times of William the Conqueror in front of his castle! ACIS has placed our hotel right next to it and in the center of town. I can't think of a better location!

Tomorrow we will have our history lesson on the greatest generation that ever lived and learn about our American heroes of WWII as we visit the American cemetery.

Our days are packed and the kids are exhausted but excited. It's great to hear them order food in French. As their teacher, my heart is full with the thoughts of them employing their study of this beautiful language. Even Gabi, our Spanish speaker, is picking up bits of French and blending right in with the group as she is taught how to order food in French from the students.

Everyone is getting along so well. I couldn't ask for a more delightful group of students. I am grateful to all the parents for raising such respectful and kind young ladies and gentlemen!

-Mademoiselle Sadler