Bureaucratic Hell

One of the best entries into Paris long-term is via student status; however you do it, if you do it properly, means you have to get a residence card…sigh. There are several good books out there that tell you what to expect, what you need, etc. so I won’t bore you with the details. But know the details, or expect the worst. I, of course, am overly prepared and head off to get my papers. I’m sweating profusely from nervousness, which I sure makes me look like a criminal. My readings told me no matter how well prepared I am, they will ask for something I don’t have. I don’t believe it; it’s how I operate. I’m always prepared. Well, I wasn’t and was sent away; huge blow to my confidence and I come home and get teary. Decide I don’t want to go back there…ever. However, I went back the next day with the new document and got my paperwork done. A medical exam (very cursory) two weeks later, and I’m LEGAL!

Realize on the way home that my apartment is on top of two rather large hills – that I will need to climb daily. Well, I need to lose weight anyway. (More on that later). Ok, maybe I can do this…