Turning eighteen

For my 18th birthday, I had a small get together with some of my friends. I felt so much love on my birthday from the many calls, messages, and packages that I got. I can't believe that I am 18. A recent question I have been asked lately by French people is that "Is turning 18 major in America." I have come to realize that in Europe in general, turning 18 is the BIG one. For me, turning 18 in America means that I get to vote (a very important thing.) In France, turning 18 is a huge deal. It is a slap in the face of gaining freedoms like legally voting, drinking, and driving. Although as a Rotary exchange student I am in fact not allowed to do any of these, it is cool to see how big someones eyes get when I tell them I am turning 18.

We ate a chocolate and a praline tart as well as quiche for dinner. My parents sent me a package from America with these balloons along with more decorations, it was a hit!

At school during our two hour economy class, I went out into the fresh air to get a breath from the stuffy room during break and when I came back, this beautiful cake drawing was on the board. Next, everyone started singing to me! They had made me a lovely chocolate cake. The boy who sits next to me took control and started to cut it up and gave pieces out. We all ate as my economy professor finished his lecture. I couldn't help but to blush the whole time from happiness. So early on in the year I had not expected such a huge act of kindness aimed just at me. It had made my day and I felt, and still feel so lucky.

With the package full of colorful decorations from my parents, I also received some packages from new, old, close, and far friends in the world. Thank you to everyone who sent me messages and packages. I am SO fortunate to have an amazing support team.