life in Grenoble

I have been living here in Grenoble for not even a week, and I am falling in love with the city. It is very old, it was occupied by the Romans, and has endured since. The French Revolution actually began in Grenoble; Louis xiv sent troops to shut to the sector of Grenoble's parliament, and in revolt, the citizens got on top of their roof tops and threw tiles onto the marching soldiers.
The history dork I may be, I know my followers arent reading for a history lesson. The city has many small shops all over, and I spent this past Saturday strolling about the city looking at all the interesting what nots. I began my day with a raspberry purchase from the outdoor market right outside my host family's house. I walked around the streets for a while, perusing a book store, porcelain shop, and boutiques. I went to Monoprix, which is essentially a French Target, and bought a purse. Then I had a croque monsieur, which is a grilled cheese with egg and cheese toasted on the outside in a little kiosque bar. Then I bought a chocolate pastry, and sat in the Place de Notre Dame and simply people watched for about thirty minutes. There is so much beauty and peace to be found by having a cafe and pastry on a balmy Saturday.
Grenoble is flanked by three mountain ranges, and one of the ranges is snow capped and perfectly fits the description of a French mountain range. My tram ride to school consists of this view. I love Grenoble because it has every element of city life that I love, yet there is hiking, skiing, nature all around me, that is not even twenty minutes away.
Most of the people I have encoutnered here are very nice and welcoming. I enjoy going out to a pub and having a drink with my friends. We also enjoy walking around towm, exploring.
I could write so much more, but words do no justice. THe mountain air is crisp and cold, and the view is maginificent. I am truly one blessed girl, and I am so thankful that I have this opportunity.