Switzerland & France & Home!

Bonjour!

Hello from the snow-covered lands of Switzerland & France where I have spent the last 10 days transitioning from tropical beaches to freezing temperatures and snow-filled skys! Do not feel too bad for me though! I have been thouroughly enjoying my time in Europe and have had a blast visiting Amber. I spent some time with the little boy, Ryan, who Amber is an aupair for as well as Malcolm, the giant great dane that keeps an eye on the beautiful old home that the family lives in. We also spent a lot of time exploring Geneva which has a quaint yet modern feel and is alight these days with beautiful tinkling colered lights. Christmas is definitely in the air, but it is not as frenzied or frantic as in the states. It is more subtle and relaxed. As you walk down the streets of Geneva in the evening and admire the abundance of lights, you take notice of the various caroling groups, musicians, and vendors celling roasted chestnuts and hot-spiced wine. We also walked through old-town where you could almost breath in the history that ran thick in the air. I spent a long time gazing at the enormous cathedrals and character-filled buildings with their colored shutters and charm. There were little shops, gallerys, and cafes every which way and I loved the glow from their windows as the day faded to evening. Needless to say, Amber and I did a lot of shopping! We also spent a lot of time gazing at the chocolates and breads that seemed to be everywhere. I have to say that swiss chocolate is to die for and the bread is beyond what words can explain! :) I also tried some French cheese at a street market that we went to. I know I am supposed to be a vegan, but that was one cultural experience I could not pass up! Delicious by the way! Plus, the French are serious about their cheese with several dozen giant rounds of different varieties on display...who could pass up a bite? And fondue....ummmm.....amazing! Anyway, Amber and I took a train to a town in Switzerland called Lausanne. The train was top-notch, timely, and offered a beautiful view of the Swiss countryside as we glided on by. We spent most of our time in Lausanne soaking in the architecture and exploring the various shops. We also drove to a town in France called Annecy where we spent a couple of days shopping, walking down by the lake, and exploring the historic area down by the canal. It was really beautiful and I had a blast. I even think I am getting used to the cold and have still managed to not get sick! Anyway, I have loved my time in Europe and have even entertained ideas of how I can make my way back! No worries, though, I am definitely ready to be home for a good long while! This has been an adventure of a lifetime. I know that I have grown and learned so much about myself and life in general. I would not trade this time for anything. However, one of the things that I have learned during my travels is the value of family and friends which is why I am really looking forward to coming home! My flight leaves tomorrow morning and I will be home just in time for the holidays. I love and miss you all and cannot wait to see each and every one of you! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays if I do not see you before then!

love,

Rachel