Here is the long awaited Study Abroad Video that everyone wanted to see. I don't think it's possible to burn to DVD, but I haven't given up hope.

With that said, this also marks a sad day, as it is most likely the last post Breezy will be making. I hope you all will still be able to carry out your daily lives without it.

-Management

Roma, Firenze, Venicia

I am writing this entry while alternating between applying aloe to my destroyed skin and throwing away one of the 10 pizza boxes that are sitting on my balcony. I love Italy.

So apparently the blog train got delayed at the station despite the conductors best efforts to get it rolling. Everytime I come home I'm either too tired, too excited or have had too many Peroni's to write an entry.  I would like to commend my faithful followers for the fantastic feedback (hows that for alliteration?). It makes me feel slightly guilty for not blogging (I'm not sure if it's because of the fact you check my blog so regularly and I don't, or because I am in Italy, while you are not).

On with the blog.

We (our study abroad group) are all currently hanging out on our balconies yelling (obscenities?) at each other.  Great times in Italy.  However, the fun, believe or not, does not end here.  It started when we arrived last Monday.  A few of the high points from Rome for the first few days were pizza, pizza, pizza, lasagna, gelado and pizza. Did I mention pizza? My body is going to completely reject all other food groups besides the aforementioned when I am back because it knows nothing else. I guess beer, but whether I can count drinks as a food group is a debate for another time.  We also made our innovation project presentations, learned about Italian culture from a few speakers, took a walking tour of the city ending at the Pantheon, and went to see the Pope. This lead us to Thursday, where we all struggled on to the bus at 7:20 am and headed up to the Banfi Winery and Inn in beautiful Tuscany.  We toured the immaculate facilities, reviewed the fermentation processes, and even were able to taste some of their finer selections.  We arrived in Florence, took the tour of the city, had an outstanding group dinner.  Sidebar: Not writing about what happens each day really makes you lose the emotion and consequently I feel as though as if my writing is suffering because of it. My bad yo.  So after the dinner, we all decided to roll out to the COOLEST bar in the world, Twice.  After numerous dance offs BK entertainment, dice rolls by Casey, Max and Tim and spins by Marianna, the night rollin' like Fred Durst.  Coincidentally, and amazingly, my good friend Jess Kushler showed up at the same bar! We shared a drink and heart-to-hearted.  The night ended on top of our residence where a devious plot to thank our brilliant professor was born to Brian Troutman and quickly blessed by all other rooftop visitors.  The plot cannot be discussed due to privacy issues. Any inquiries will be quickly be shut down.  Friday meant a tour of Ferraguamo shoes (sooooo boring) and purchases totaling 400 Euro (by Brian and Savir).  It also meant a train ride to Venice.  After some confusion with the hotel that left 7 people in one room, we took a gondala ride and shopped around the city for Friday night and Saturday.  Another train ride brought us back to Roma, where we spent all of Sunday on the beach.  

I'm struggling to right this blog right now because everyone is chatting it up on our balcony, and I can't turn down time with this group.

Sorry for the lack of funny in this blog but it was more an update than anything I guess.

Probably not many blogs left seeing as I will be home Friday. People will be lining up for miles to see me so make sure you make a reservation soon.

Thanks,

Management

My Hiatus and Glorious Return

So everyone, Breezy couldn't find himself for a couple days in Europe (due to some internet/personal issues) and therefore did not blog, however I'm back on the lines for a quick update tonight.

Paris is over and done and I'll miss it, but Roma is my home.  On that note, I would like to inform my family that I will not be returning on the 19th, or ever again. Sorry *turns off computer and walks away.*

Just kidding, but I've already had two entire pizzas and two helpings of gelado.  I'm not sure that I'll ever really look at ice cream or Domino's the same.

_______________*FLATLINE*__________________

This entry was abrutly interrupted by skype, youtube videos, and mass hilarity. Shouts to the fam, the new roomies Ken, Ishaan, and Max. And Casey, for laughing harder than anyone else this entire trip.

Also shouts to Unforgivable. Still being viewed "FO' FREE!"

Blog locomotive picking up steam for tomorrow. Let's go.

Seeing Paris from the Clouds

I'm running out of jokes. I only wrote down like 50 on the plane over here and I had hoped they would last me the whole time. Anways, here's another attempt at being funny/creative/informative.  

Today was THE LONGEST DAY of class ever. 6 hours at Negocia, broken up only by bad fish lunches and power naps takes a toll on the body.  We learned about our personalities in class today and I found that I am an ESTJ, which means that I am best equipped for an administrative position at some point in my life.  The fact that people might actually listen to me is somewhat frightening yet at the same time very empowering.  Fast forward through a metro ride home. Actually. Pause. Rewind. Play.  Before the day was over we were put into groups to design an advertisement for MSU. Big Daddy Joe, Angela, JAHHHHH-nelle and I came up with what was voted by the class as the best commercial.  Basically, it was the day in the life of Sparty, if he were a college student. <>

We were on our way to Sacre Ceur for what we thought would be another fun night together, but really had no idea how outstanding the night was going to be.  At this point, I'm sure everyone is probably irritated by the fact that every night I have is 10000 times better than the previous one and probably is getting a slight bit jealous. That's to be expected. I'm in Paris, you're not. Anyways, we walked up 2 million stairs and just as I was about to collapse, I turned and swooped in one magnificent motion and caught a look at the city of Paris from the beautiful vantage point of Montmarte and Sacre Ceur.  A-MAZING. The moment your eyes lay upon the intertwined mix of shadows and sunlight dancing through each other on the rooftops, there is a culmination and understanding of what the city really is all about. I'm thankful for having that opportunity. Dinner was provided by MSU tonight.  The wine kept flowing, the Escargot and Roast Duck were to die for, and the entertainment was priceless, again thanks to Anna.  Also, Brian and Allison brought a fire to the group by their re-enactment of "The Macarena." Truly magnificent. 

After dinner, we browsed some shops. I picked up a pair of hot shades and purchased matching France jerseys with my boy Kenny. Decided to skip Moulin Rouge tonight, but did not pass up a most awkward visit in my first European (or American for that matter) adult store.  I couldn't walk out fast enough. Never again. On to the randoms.

Quick Notes:

Becoming a wine drinker is tough. I'm slowly adapting.

Dausmenile showers aren't as bad as everyone says. I'll fit just fine.

Escargot is now not only exclusive to the last name of Keenan Thompson's best character ever.  It is also a declicous dish.

Anyone who ever comes to Paris doesn't see the best part of the city until they go to Montremarte (or however you spell it).

Things I don't fit into in France:

Added:

XXL soccer jerseys. This country makes me look like a whale.

Another successful blog entry over and out.

Bruce Leech and Pareeeee

Breezy back on the blog lines ya'll.  I've heard a little interest has sparked in my blog amongst my peers. I guess the pressures on but guess who ain't gon' crack *starts singing diamonds from sierra leone.*  Pretty stoked/a little nervous about the quality of my writing.  Also, if you really want to be mentioned in the blog just hit me up in any way possible.

 The day was very, very chill.  We heard some speakers today, Bruce Leech and Bill Mengebier, and both presented great points about being abroad and being in Paris. Sidebar: this might be the lamest blog yet because of my level of exhaustion. Also Brian is whining about how his laptop won't charge. It's more than distracting. I silently just gave him 3 minutes.  Comon Brian.

Anyways, after class today, we found this panini shop (thanks to Anna) and for only 3.5 Euro, we enjyoed delicous Tex Mex and Curry Poulet (chicken) on bread while finding the nearest grocery for a little thirst quenching beverage.  Stella Artois was purchased for 1.07 Euro each, and after a nap by all parties involved, the guys started getting Casey-ed on Savir and Dunn's porch. Bonding ensued.  After the girls finally arrived (only 1.5 hours late), we dipped to the Bastille to try and find Barrio Latino, suposedly the finest salsa club in Paris. Some of our early birds headed to Barrio first and were denied entrance based upon apparel.  Obviously, they were unaware of the circumstances that had brought us there, because had they have known we were from MSU, I'm sure there would have been no problem.  N E Wayz, Ryan and I totally negotied(Ne-go-shhh-ed) a price for shots from 3.8 to 3 Euro and our group went back to the Irish Bar for the third time in 7 nights. Things start getting hazy here so I will look for group input tomorrow if anyone really cares what went down.  Regardless, Tuesday in Paris was yet another terrific evening characterized by high society individuals and first class comraderie.  

Sorry for the little (blog) guy tonight, but at 2:45, it's the best I could do. Be thankful for no typos.

Also, don't forget about quick facts:

I can't tell you all how stoked (yea I rock hard) I am for any of the group to be reading this blog. Rome group rocks.

I'm pretty sure I'll be writing a wrap up to submit to Meghan's blog ( the girl who presented today), because after she has the "biggest blog in America," I want to feel like I contribued; despite the fact that I know my blog draws more laughs.

I'd like to thank Emily for waking me up during the speakers today.  Please poke me(in real life, not facebook) tomorrow during my feeble attempts to stay awake during class. You won't be forgotten.

Daumenaisle calls tomorrow. Looking forward to standing outside the shower to get clean. Pieces. 

Breeze.

The City Scavenger Hunt

Today was our first day of class, and we were presented a theme for the day; "Be present amongst yourself."  Essentially what this means is to stop, smell the roses, and appreciate every little thing about where you are. From sipping coffee on a side street cafe to meandering about one of the greatest cities in the world, enjoy it. It goes without saying that it was a great start to the day.  

Class flew by, we are so lucky to have Professor Harrell.  His insight of not only marketing, but life in general are always spot on and thought provoking. After class, we headed over and had a little sandwich and got ready for our big scavenger hunt.  I don't really know why, but everyone was running late today, so in order to make it to Notre Dame on time we had to pull our best Prefontaine and break the 4 minute mile.  Looking like a bottle of water had been dumped all over me, we arrived at THE Notre Dame (No-Truh Dahm) and were split into teams.  The rules were simple, locate and take a picture of the group at each of the named locales within a four-hour time limit without use of a computer, phone or GPS.  The person with the most places hit, wins.  At first glance, it was seemingly an obvious pick for team 5, consisting of Alex, Cecilia, Becca, Courtney, Tommy and myself, to be the winners.  However, some lollygagging around the stores and dissention between the ranks caused us to be the only team in Study Abroad history to be DQ'ed due to late arrival.  Regardless of our shortcomings as a unit, I think we all learned quite a bit about each other today, and I for one was impressed by all of the members of our team.  We hit spots such as Saint Michael Cathedral and the Louvre.  We witnessed couples in love displaying romantic affection for each other. We casually dined on a street corner. All things that you could really step outside of yourself and say, "Wow, how terrific that we are here in Paris enjoying *blank*."  Our scavenger hunt ended with a picnic at the Eiffel Tower, put together by our wonderful PA's and Susie, Professor Harrell's wife (who I am somewhat terrified to introduce myself to because I don't know whether to call her Mrs. Harrell or Susie). Dinner was delicious sandwiches on french baguettes (the bread is WONDERFUL here), chips and cookies, and to me, was a very satisfying meal.  However, after four days in a row eating a sandwich, I have realized that the French don't use any condiments except mayonnaise, and it is extremely frustrating.  If I ever come back, I'll have a bottle of Hidden Valley in tow (Ryan Ley you know what I'm talking about). After the dinner, the group split up.  Some climbed the steps of the Eiffel Tower, while others, including myself, headed back home for a little rest.  After what seemed like 20 miles of walking today, an hour and a half climb up to the top did not seem too appealing to me.  Hopefully we'll hit it on Saturday, our next free day.  Post metro ride, Savir and I hit the grocery store for some beer and water, though we opted for the safe rode tonight, and did a little research on local bars to try and coordinate a little somethin somethin for later in the week. *Do best Borat voice* GREAT SUCCESS! It seems like we did more today, but I guess not. On to the Quick Notes.

Quick Notes:

The city of Paris never ceases to pull out hidden surprises; musicians were out in full force today gracing the airwaves with home grown material all the way to Bob Marley and Macy Gray.

I have currently consumed one Clif Bar to date. I feel as though I have made a huge mistake in bringing 4,000.

I never expected to have 6 followers, or more importantly for Mom and Dad to figure out how to sign up for a google account.  I'm impressed with both and again thankful for your support!

Things I don't fit into in France:

The train to Brussls.

The bus home from Brussels.

Roland-Garros Stadium Seats.

Most sizes of shirts.

No additional cramped areas discovered today.

Hope everything is well with everyone back in the states and a big shout out to the homie Ian Stonebrook chasin the dream in Austin starting today I believe. 517 stand UP! Catch everyone tomorrow.

The French Open

After blogging last night, J-Train and I decided to roll over to the Falstaff for a little 3 am pizza *singing '3 am' in my mind.* Devouring ensued. On the way back we ran into Tommy and (forgettable) Al. Just thought I'd mention some other people in here in case anyone besides family decides to read. Sleepy time came and went and Savir, Jimmy, Molly Sharapova and Ken made our way to the metro around 12:30.  Sidebar: My best Indian and Taiwanese friends are being replaced, at least for the next three weeks. Sorry Will and Rana. Savir and Kenny will be taking your spot.  After several failed attempts at buying tickets from scalpers (asking upwards of 100 Euro a piece), we finally found the line and decided to start waiting for our tickets around 2 pm, for a 5 pm match.  Savir, Ken and Molly held the spots in line while Jimmy and I found arguably the "best bang for your buck" restaurant in Paris.  Giant sandwiches price at only 5 Euro is impossible to turn down.  We headed back to our famished friends and ate our subs. Then the waiting game began.  4 1/2 hours of minimal movement due to a one-in-one-out policy made for a very slow day.  However, we talked amongst ourselves and others and ended up finding out a lot about each other.  Also, we met a pilot for continental airlines named Tony, who enjoyed talking with us as much as we did with him. Finally, our queue number was called and we were granted entrance into the magnificent Roland-Garros tennis complex.  We got in just in time to watch Rafal Nadal lose his first French Open match EVER (previously 30-0).  We then saw Maria Sharapova pull off a stunning come from behind victory over Ken's much preferred Na Li.  The spectacle of the event was breathtaking, and it has definitely changed the way I view tennis. We headed back to the sandwich shop where we struggled to make an order due to language barriers (after the confrontation, we were too afraid to ask for ketchup).  The metro ride home made us realize how tired we were from one of the best weekends of my life, and after "sharing a glass of wine with my peers", "crankin some tunes," and "making conversation," I decided it was best to see what my blog and bed were all about. James came with me ( by the way, James, Jimmy and J-train are all the same person) because he tends to do that. Great end to a great day. On to some more thoughts.

Quicknotes:

My study abroad group is ill. Like in a cool way, not a swine flu way.

Getting a SIM Card in France is much tougher than I thought.  I have seen zero (0) wireless dealers so far.

Skype is probably not gonna happen this trip. Unless you are all very lucky.

I'm adding a new section called:

Things I don't fit into in France. So far I have:

The train to Brussels.

The bus from Brussels.

Roland-Garros Stadium seats.

Most sizes of shirts.

Soon to be added:

Daumenile showers.

Thanks for your time, stay classy.

I Won't Create Anymore Exciting Titles, I'm Going to Start Naming the Blog by Number

Alright readers/family followers.  I can't explain how terrific and outstanding today was. I learned so much about myself and others, as well as solidified some friendships here that will be lasting forever. I am trying to write this blog as my friends are watching a butt muscle building/vibrating machine commercial, so bear with me. We all wish the Wings were on. 

We started off the day with a late start and sprint to the metro, mostly because of my inability to respond to my alarm (this was my first trouble, and hopefully last).  After debates about whether or not we would be on time for the tickets, we arrived ten minutes before Professor Harrell and got out tickets without problem. We then made our way to a restaurant with 16 group member and myself for a brunch type meal.  It was here that for the first time in my 20(21)-year career that I used a women's restroom.  As I exited, I realized the error in my ways and quickly exited the area, with head down and French insults dancing in my direction.  Needless to say, I was slightly embarrassed. The brunch came to an end and we made our way to the green line to witness historic Paris with 15 people in tow.  We lost 5 to the Louvre, but maintained a solid ten for the rest of the day.  For the next two hours, I took lots of pictures that I will not be able to explain to anyone, for my knowledge of the tour was EXTREMELY limited.  The first part of the tour that I can explain is the Hotel Des Invalides, a monster of a complex constructed by Louis XIV for any crippled or injured honorary military officers in Napolean's army.  We went through his Hotel, Sanctuary, and Museum before exiting the grounds. Slightly distracted right now, a documentary on Common is currently airing in French and I am attempting to understand, while slightly intoxicated, and I emphasize SLIGHTLY. Back to the day.  After the Hotel, we made a walk up Champs Elysee for a little shopping/European hot dog, to the Arc de Triomphe, which is supposedly more excited than the Eiffel Tower.  I can see why. Our group spent around  an upwards of an hour to clear the rooftop of the Triomphe, though half the group left after what was an empty bomb threat. I decided that if I was going out, at least I was going out on top (of the Arc de Triomphe). Finally, we made the climb down the tower, and took our sunburned bodies to the Bistro Romaine, where we racked up a delicious 160 Euro bill. (Money is irrelevant/complicated here, if any family would like to make a donation, please contact anyone at 517-349-4314). The cheapest meal we've had so far was in Brussels for 20 Euro, but all meals have been worth every cent, and the atmosphere/camaraderie more than makes up for the small to adequate portions. Needless to say, I think I will be changing my eating patterns back in the States.  After dinner, we took the metro, which I now know like the back of my hand, to our residence to celebrate our friend Allie's 21st birthday.  Though there was a lot of turmoil and disappoint of late departures and lack of comunication between 40 people at first, the night ended very well. I somehow adopted the role of Dad/Protector for the night. 70 Euro later, we ended up heading back to the Citadine without tears or abducted persons, despite the many attempts by French men thwarted by my muscle flexing capabilities developed in the Pemble gym.  Happy Birthday Allie, can't wait to celebrate back in the U.S.

Quick Notes:

I've decided this is a great way to get across some points without any relevance to my ramblings. I will continue to do it.

Many, many pictures were taken today, so be excited.

I will never leave my camera at home again, I have learned my lesson.

Hopefully I don't have to be "Group Director" next time we go out, but I like the reassurance that everyone had fun and got home safe, it must be in my blood.

Finally.

I really appreciated the last set of comments, and I look forward to more.  Your appreciation for my writing is very meaningful to me.

Get at everyone tomorrow!

Brussels, Belgium

40 morning birds chirped up at 6:15 this morning after a late night at the pub to catch the metro and high-speed train to Brussels, Belgium.  Attempts to sleep on the train were futile and the group arrived half-awake at the European Union (note: we stay positive at all times here, hence, half-awake and not half-asleep).  After a riveting tour of a sort of subsidiary of European Parliament, we were released into what is my favorite city in the world.  Given a healthy two hours for lunch, T-storm(Savir), J-Train(Jimmy), Kiki(Ken) and I posted up at Braserie Belgic.  Located on the corner of the most BEAUTIFUL town square in the world, our view matched our food and home-brewed beer in excellence, as well as some truly legit male-bonding.  In tradition, most of the group joined up but didn't experience as great of a time as us because they weren't outside.  Relentless tours ensued after our splendid lunch.  We took a walking tour of Brussels which was as informational as it was fun.  We rubbed a statue for good look, saw the famous (original) little boy peeing sculpture and learned about the history of Belgium.  We also (more importantly) found the best waffle place in Brussels and had to try it. It did not disappoint. I feel like Caitlin would have loved this.  You also may be saying,"What about the chocolate, Brad? I heard the Belgians have great chocolate." You would be correct and if you greet me within the first 24 hours of my arrival you might have the chance to sample a piece, pending Mom's approval. Anyways, we went back to the same restaurant we ate lunch at and sampled three different kinds of the 500 available Belgium beers.  In the midst of all this, a Jazz festival was going on.  Between sips of refreshing brews, we witnessed an interview of one of these such bands for a Russian television station.  It was English and we actually were able to talk to them a little bit before hand.  Sadly, the day had to end and we took an uncomfortable, albeit fun bus back to Paris.  Tim Deters and I chopped it up most of the way and it was a good 'ol time.  Finally back at the hotel, we saw the Eiffel Tower light show and are now just talking and reminiscing on another TERRIFIC day.  

Quick Notes:

Belgium is my favorite place in the world: beer, chocolate, waffles and a laid back attitude could entertain me forever.

I miss everyone home, but all the people here are outstanding.

I appreciate the comments, so keep leaving them!

Back to conversation! Blog at you all later!

The Irish Pub and Negocia

These posts are going to be harder and harder to do I think because we are so busy! We went over our schedule today, and aside from our two free weekends, there isn't a whole lot of free time.  Everything we have scheduled looks very fun though.  Today, we went to Negocia, the premier business negotiation in France.  The facility was all first-rate, as were the people. It is about an hour away by metro, and by riding it today I affirmed my decision to NOT ride it from the airport.  I feel as though I have a good handle on it now, but with luggage and without a clue, the metro is definitely the last place I would want to be.  After a rigorous day of class, introducing our innovation project, and a two hour presentation by the world leader in marketing consultation, we came home, again by way of metro.  James, Savir and I went to go get tickets for the Eurail to go to Bruges, from Brussels tomorrow, but after an hour and a half wait in line (Monday is penecost here, so everyone is traveling this weekend), we found out they didn't have any tickets.  Upon arriving back at the Citadine, we found our group waiting for everyone to gather and head out to the bars, despite the 6:15 meeting time tomorrow morning.  The three of us hadn't eaten yet, so after finding out where the group went off to, we dipped next door to the Irish pub where they had live music, good food, and great beer (for 7 euro a drink). The rest of the crew rolled over after about an hour, they obviously realized where the party was at, and we celebrated our arrival. After a couple beers, we called it a night and I came back to iron my dress clothes for tomorrow.  Anyways, I'm gonna go stare at the Eiffel Tower twinkling in the moonlight and reflect, and then hop into bed. I'll post again tomorrow. I miss everyone!

First Day Escapades

Leaving East Lansing last night around 5:45, I knew I was in for a whirlwind 24 hours. As usual, my prediction was spot on.  I arrived at the airport 2 hours ahead of schedule, and proceeded to befriend a man named Hyder, who was visiting family in the southern part of France. Through heightened awareness, I made decent conversation with the man and learned that the people of Paris are quite difficult to work with.  As we boarded the plane, operated by Air France, he sent me off with an enthusiastic, "Welcome to France!" The plane took off on standard Pemble time (minus Mike); about 15 minutes late, but arrived promptly at 11.  The flight was full of faulty movie screens, fussy babies and french accents. I pulled about 3 hours of sleep.  I watched "Yes Man" per recommendation from Natalia who did the same thing and upon arrival was very ready to get to my hotel. I wimped out on the RER and Metro after being detained briefly by customs, but quickly dismissed with a smile, and took a cab, which actually worked out quite nice because he spoke English and was very helpful in helping me establish my bearings.  I checked into my top level suite (4 person dorm), complete with a view of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, along with 3 cool dudes and made my way to the orientation.  Basic rule reading ensued.  After a short trip back to the hotel to drop off laptops, we made our way to Flagstaff for pizza at the Bastille, which is a beautiful 50-foot sculpture in the middle of a roundabout.  The three-course meal was very satisfying and was a great way to get to know some of the group.  I can see that I'm going to like a lot of people on this trip. Anyways, jet lag is setting in so I'm gonna get ready for bed (it's 21:14 here, or 9:15pm)  Don't worry everyone, I made it, and I'm loving it! Catch you all on the next post.

I won't be on skype much, but I'll be letting you know when I do.

"To educate the intelligence is to expand the horizon of its wants and desires."

~James Russell Lowell

Site Instructions

As all of my readers know, I'm going to be in Europe for the next few weeks and instead of filling your inbox with spam, I thought I'd set up a little site where anyone who wants to know what I have been doing can check in on me. I'll be detailing my daily experiences through (what I think) are interesting anecdotes, trivia and quips.  Of course, at this point, everything is just a plan, I don't really know how much time I'll really have for blogging, but I'm sure I'll know really soon.  My updates will certainly occur more often then anything over at www.dobydigital.blogspot.com. SOOOO basically, check this page at your leisure and you'll feel like you right there with me. Kind of.

Anyways, happy readings. Comments would be appreciated, but of course, not necessary.

"To educate the intelligence is to expand the horizon of its wants and desires."

~James Russell Lowell