I feel like it’s been an eventful week. I only have one class on Monday, which is delightful—since I finished at 1:00, my friend Kate and I went shopping at this cute little street by the hostel we stayed at. My quest for boots failed, and I doubt I’ll be getting them—the January sale season ends by law tomorrow. I did however get an “edgy” and “fresh” blazer-ish thing, which is good. We also drank our tiny coffees outside, though it was cold, while sitting on a cobblestone street. I felt thoroughly European.

Eric met up with us eventually, and after concluding our hapless shopping adventures, he and I returned to our respective abodes with purchases, and then came right back to the same place. We saw Jimmy Eat World, which is the fulfillment of several years of hoping. It was nice to go with some people from the program, nice to see other people we knew, and even nice to have a drink there—it was the first time I could drink at the show and, as Eric pointed out, would be the start of a new trend. I turn 21 so soon after returning home that I doubt I’ll ever have to go dry at a show again!

The venue was pretty sweet, and I had a decent view from my spot. European crowds are much tamer than back home, and engage in less singing along—this may also be due to the fact that most people there didn’t seem to know the older albums. I’m proud to say I knew every song, even from their recent EP. They opened with Big Casino, and when they shouted “I’m the one that got away/I’m a New Jersey success story,” I had the urge to fist pump or yell or something—I doubt many people were there from Jersey, and nothing proves the getting away sentiment more than my appearance here in Europe. Anyway, the show was unfortunately short—they played most of my favorites, but I could have listened to them play anything for a lot longer. Also, there was some of the unavoidable emotionalism I guess I shan’t ever outgrow, but it’s not like it ruined the night. Afterwards was frites and the Grand Place and beer on the street and waffles, and the longest trip home ever.

Tuesday was difficult, as I just wanted to sleep thanks to the night before. Oh, and the lack of heat makes bed amazing. Theory class, some French, and then, before Belgium class, a gathering of the brain trust at Time Square. Who cares if I pay a euro and sixty cents for a tiny coffee? Having a place where everyone converges, almost by instinct, is fantastic. It's like Friends, or Cheers (it's Belgium--beer is always an option). I love that everyone here has such a different background; it makes conversation a lot more fun. Tuesday also involved grocery shopping with Kate and Sara, which was more of an adventure then it sounds. Also, they sell beer in giant bottles--like, the size of a wine bottle. Chimay Blue for 2.71? Sure!

Then today was generic classes and terrible rain. I can't believe it's almost the weekend! Time is absolutely flying. Bastogne this weekend, and solidying the Antwerp plans for next weekend. Soon Paris, and its time to start planning spring break! How has it been three weeks already??