One of the dumbest things about moving to France is leaving your sister behind. Today, mine celebrates a birthday and I won't be there to take her picture as she blows out her candles. But with any luck she'll have received the funny postcard I sent which brings me to the theme of today's missive: mailboxes!
la boîte à lettres (bwat-ah-letr)
: mailbox, letter box
also boîte aux lettres
A Day in a French Life… by Kristin Espinasse
Today is my sister's anniversaire de naissance and I'm looking for a way to surprise her. I went through my photo archives, searching for a picture of Heidi, when another idea came to mind: put today's letter in theme with all those beloved mailboxes that I have captured over the years.
For the care packages and heartwarming letters found inside, the mailbox is the perfect symbol of thoughtfulness, which is just one of my sister's many qualities—for more, read on….
When I moved to France I was lazy about keeping up with the holidays we loved to celebrate as kids. I didn't realize how meaningful some of them were to me until a package would arrive in the mail bursting with colorful heart candy and "Be My Valentine" cards—the ones we used to swap as kids after Mom bought them at Bashas or Walgreens or at Metrocenter mall.
For Easter, Heidi would send packages full of jellybeans, the bright colors and original flavors (peanut butter!) sent me right back to my American childhood, where my sister and I built forts and tree houses and castles in the sky… or at least imagined them from the top of the old shed where we ate our jellybeans while gazing at the clouds above us, dreaming about our enchanted futures.
(Jean-Marc made our beehive mailbox when he tended bees back at our vineyard)
When I finally made it to college (on probation) I began to have doubts as graduation approached. What could I do with a degree in French besides go on to grad school? Yes! I would go on to grad school, then to super grad school. A masters then a Ph.D!
On learning about my plans, my down-to-earth sister had a memorable pep talk with me: You can't make a career out of school!
Without Heidi's encouragement, I might still be writing my thesis instead of this "thrice-weekly" column from France, where I moved instead of into a graduate dorm (at Thunderbird School of Global Management… Not that I would have ever passed the entrance exam!)
Look at the French handwriting on the "no more bread today sign" in the baker's window. The pretty cursive reminds me of Heidi's neat penmanship, which is as unchanging she is. (You know what they say about lovely people: don't ever change!)
I once had the surreal experience of judging my own penmanship. When I say surreal, this is because I was in the unusual position of objectively seeing the writing. It happened one day when I noticed a card on my mom's nightstand and, reaching over to read it, I was struck by the untamed handwriting. The cursive leaned forward or backward–sometimes the letters were straight up and down. No two "e" were the same. The Y's had curly tails on one line, on the next they were uncurled.
"Whoever wrote this is a little flaky!" I remember thinking, dubious about Mom's latest admirer… when next my eyes fell on the signature. It was my own.
(I'm against handwriting analysis, as you can sympathize. Though I do believe my sister's handwriting–flowing, elegant, structured–happens to hint at her personality.)
Continuing on with the bits and pieces about our sistership, I will never forget our New York trip, around 2006. I was excited to meet with my first editor, at Simon and Schuster! My sister and a group of ladies met up with me to celebrate. I wanted to blog about our girls getaway, but I worried about privacy. Heidi is a private person, I told myself. She will not want me to post her photo or talk about her.
So I made up my mind to post about other parts of that NYC trip… and to this day my sister teases me: "Remember that time you went to NYC all by yourself? she snickers, referring to the fact that I did not post one photo of our girls group (and there were some FUN pics to be sure!)
Her light-hearted comment made me realize how I tend to assume that people are one way… when really they might be completely different! I thought I knew my sister through and through; instead, I continue to learn about her each time we spend time together.
What else did I want to tell you about my sister (no, that's not her there on the right), now that I know I can dish out the goods? Just kidding, Heidi! Your secret's safe with me. Not that you have many. If you did would you tell me? Of course you would! I'm your sister! (a blabbermouth no more. That was then. This is maintenant!)
…That brings me to French. Heidi spoke it first. (She took writing first, too.) That makes me a copycat, which is a little sister's birthright!
If mailboxes were people this one would be me. I think Heidi would agree. I may live in France and my life may seem glamorous but inside I'm still that potato-bellied little kid. I ate all the Dolly Madison's. I ate all the bologney sandwiches. I ate all the Pop Rocks. You did all the dishes after preparing the sandwiches and letting me have the last Hostess Cupcake. You still make sure everyone's got something to eat.
Second-to-last mailbox photo… time to bring this birthday tribute to a close…
Here is one of your biggest fans. Jean-Marc is always asking, "Have you talked to Heidi? How is Heidi? What's new with Heidi?" It's true. We all are fascinated by your life. That makes you a rock star (and we, the groupies).
… I was going to say "guppies" instead of groupies and I'm smiling now, thinking again about the good old days when I would catch guppies and you were the groupie (Rolling Stones, Led Zepplin). Remember when Mom burned your Stairway to Heaven album? Afraid we'd receive subliminal messages!
Sacré Mom. She did the best she could. Looking at you, I'd say she did an amazing job.
With lots of love, and wishes for a Happy Birthday. I love you, Heidi!
Kristi
French Vocabulary
un anniversaire de naissance = birthday
sacré = sacred, almighty ("sacré Mom" in this story is used in this sense: "You gotta appreciate our mom!" or "what a character Mom is!"
Discover more from French Word-A-Day
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This is lovely I miss those wacky post boxes it was wonderful to see your pics. My mad (English) neighbour mounter her obligatory green one on a rusty old stove in her field which was secured by fraying bungee straps, wish I had taken a photo of it now!
Happy birthday to your sis,
Karen
This is lovely I miss those wacky post boxes it was wonderful to see your pics. My mad (English) neighbour mounter her obligatory green one on a rusty old stove in her field which was secured by fraying bungee straps, wish I had taken a photo of it now!
Happy birthday to your sis,
Karen
I always enjoy your photos – and the ‘letterboxes’ are great
– best wishes,
Lesley from Oxfordshire, England
I always enjoy your photos – and the ‘letterboxes’ are great
– best wishes,
Lesley from Oxfordshire, England
Joyeux anniversaire, Heidi. I’m glad Kristin shared you with us for a day.
Joyeux anniversaire, Heidi. I’m glad Kristin shared you with us for a day.
How lovely to see people express themselves in such a delightful way! No utilitarian, dull letter boxes in Provence. Happy birthday to Heidi from Maryland, USA, land of the dull mailbox.
How lovely to see people express themselves in such a delightful way! No utilitarian, dull letter boxes in Provence. Happy birthday to Heidi from Maryland, USA, land of the dull mailbox.
I second what Linda said. I feel as if I have been allowed into a special relationship here. As the oldest of 4 girls, you can imagine that I too have some sister memories like yours. Joyeux anniversaire, Heidi, and good job, Kristin, with the feel good message for your sis. The mailboxes are the frosting on the cake.
I second what Linda said. I feel as if I have been allowed into a special relationship here. As the oldest of 4 girls, you can imagine that I too have some sister memories like yours. Joyeux anniversaire, Heidi, and good job, Kristin, with the feel good message for your sis. The mailboxes are the frosting on the cake.
I loved reading this story. Happy birthday to Heidi. I think you both share a wonderful bond. (I always wanted a sister.)
I loved reading this story. Happy birthday to Heidi. I think you both share a wonderful bond. (I always wanted a sister.)
Well, the first item on this little sister’s daily list is to go post a birthday card to her big sister, so she receives it by April 1! Thanks for the wonderful reminder…
Well, the first item on this little sister’s daily list is to go post a birthday card to her big sister, so she receives it by April 1! Thanks for the wonderful reminder…
I am always amazed at how you can take an ordinary subject that goes largely un-noticed and make us really look at it. I think that is the what makes an artist. They make us really look at something we see but never really notice or think about -like mail boxes! How fortunate Heidi is to have such a wonderful birthday tribute from a sister who loves her. Thank you for sharing with us.
I am always amazed at how you can take an ordinary subject that goes largely un-noticed and make us really look at it. I think that is the what makes an artist. They make us really look at something we see but never really notice or think about -like mail boxes! How fortunate Heidi is to have such a wonderful birthday tribute from a sister who loves her. Thank you for sharing with us.
Your tribute to Heidi was beautiful and made me think of my own sister, Linda, whose birthday is also today. We sadly lost her to cancer 2008. She and Heidi had a lot in common.
Your tribute to Heidi was beautiful and made me think of my own sister, Linda, whose birthday is also today. We sadly lost her to cancer 2008. She and Heidi had a lot in common.
Bonjour Kristin. Love both the writing and photo illustrations of the mailbox piece. Good job as I tell my grandkids! And happy birthday to your sister. Thanks for sharing the sister stories; I am the oldest of three so I can relate to your thoughts, but from the other side. Sometimes being the oldest is a drag; I am considered bossy as I was the one mother always sent out to get the gang in the house! I am now 80 and they still kid me about sibling order. Keep up the good work and please keep sharing with your devoted readers. Priscilla of La Nouvelle Orleans
Bonjour Kristin. Love both the writing and photo illustrations of the mailbox piece. Good job as I tell my grandkids! And happy birthday to your sister. Thanks for sharing the sister stories; I am the oldest of three so I can relate to your thoughts, but from the other side. Sometimes being the oldest is a drag; I am considered bossy as I was the one mother always sent out to get the gang in the house! I am now 80 and they still kid me about sibling order. Keep up the good work and please keep sharing with your devoted readers. Priscilla of La Nouvelle Orleans
Loved today’s post and post boxes! And this little sister is lucky to have just made arrangements to drive down to see her big sister for an April birthday (nice to be on the same continent). It’s a 5-hour drive, but she’s so worth it. And the gift: a day helping her clean her garage! She cleaned mine on a visit to my house, and I thought sweetly of her every time I pulled my car in. Happy birthday to your Heidi and to my Kathy! Susan
Loved today’s post and post boxes! And this little sister is lucky to have just made arrangements to drive down to see her big sister for an April birthday (nice to be on the same continent). It’s a 5-hour drive, but she’s so worth it. And the gift: a day helping her clean her garage! She cleaned mine on a visit to my house, and I thought sweetly of her every time I pulled my car in. Happy birthday to your Heidi and to my Kathy! Susan
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BEAUTIFUL HEIDI
I have so many images of you tucked deep within my mind – all of the grace and beauty you brought along when you arrived long ago to be my first born child. I will spend this day in rememberance of all you brought into my life – and perhaps later on I will come back with a few stories that will make me laugh and you cringe. You were a tough one to raise – too much like your own mother and grandmother in so many wonderful ways. And of course we must not forget your great-grandmother Nell who perhaps was the one who started us all down this path we seem to travel. Adventure runs deep within our souls – and you are now back on that path once again – I see it now radiating throughout your spirit. Hang on – I see you flying once again into the future that is full of joy and blessings. I love you Honey – you have always been my ‘Star’.
My deepest love to you –
MOM
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BEAUTIFUL HEIDI
I have so many images of you tucked deep within my mind – all of the grace and beauty you brought along when you arrived long ago to be my first born child. I will spend this day in rememberance of all you brought into my life – and perhaps later on I will come back with a few stories that will make me laugh and you cringe. You were a tough one to raise – too much like your own mother and grandmother in so many wonderful ways. And of course we must not forget your great-grandmother Nell who perhaps was the one who started us all down this path we seem to travel. Adventure runs deep within our souls – and you are now back on that path once again – I see it now radiating throughout your spirit. Hang on – I see you flying once again into the future that is full of joy and blessings. I love you Honey – you have always been my ‘Star’.
My deepest love to you –
MOM
Tom, so sorry you lost your sister to cancer. Heidi does the Susan G. Komen cancer walk, yearly, after our Moms experience.
Lana, thank you for that thought. If Joie and Ruth are reading–I saw your notes in Mondays post and was super encouraged thanks!
Mom, just saw your comment. Cant wait for Heidi to read her birthday wishes. Keep them coming and happy birthday to the March babies out there.
Tom, so sorry you lost your sister to cancer. Heidi does the Susan G. Komen cancer walk, yearly, after our Moms experience.
Lana, thank you for that thought. If Joie and Ruth are reading–I saw your notes in Mondays post and was super encouraged thanks!
Mom, just saw your comment. Cant wait for Heidi to read her birthday wishes. Keep them coming and happy birthday to the March babies out there.
Happy Birthday Heidi, this is going to feel like a very special one since you will receive greetings and good wishes from all over the world! Sounds as if you have some exciting
plans for the next year! All good wishes,
JanF Bellingham WA
Happy Birthday Heidi, this is going to feel like a very special one since you will receive greetings and good wishes from all over the world! Sounds as if you have some exciting
plans for the next year! All good wishes,
JanF Bellingham WA
I loved the mailboxes! And, my husband and I live in Fountain Hills for 8 months of the year, Boston the other four. In 1983-84 I attended Thunderbird and it was the perfect education for my love of international travel, business and intrigue. I’m not sure you would have liked it so much – not many Frenchmen!
I loved the mailboxes! And, my husband and I live in Fountain Hills for 8 months of the year, Boston the other four. In 1983-84 I attended Thunderbird and it was the perfect education for my love of international travel, business and intrigue. I’m not sure you would have liked it so much – not many Frenchmen!
Salut Kristin et tout le monde,
Having met your sister a couple years ago at the Phoenix FWAD meet-up, I can say with confidence that Heidi is “one charming gal”!!! Happy birthday, Heidi!
The citrus blossoms are out in Phoenix now and the fragrance is awesome!
À la prochaine
Salut Kristin et tout le monde,
Having met your sister a couple years ago at the Phoenix FWAD meet-up, I can say with confidence that Heidi is “one charming gal”!!! Happy birthday, Heidi!
The citrus blossoms are out in Phoenix now and the fragrance is awesome!
À la prochaine
Happy birthday Heidi. Aren’t sisters wonderful. I too have a big sister who is all the things I would like to be. Great photos Kirstin. We don’t have mailboxes here in Scotland. The mail just comes through the main front door. I prefer the french boite aux lettres. prolongs the intrigue of what’s in the mail.
Happy birthday Heidi. Aren’t sisters wonderful. I too have a big sister who is all the things I would like to be. Great photos Kirstin. We don’t have mailboxes here in Scotland. The mail just comes through the main front door. I prefer the french boite aux lettres. prolongs the intrigue of what’s in the mail.
un anniversaire de naissance IS TO birthday
as
Kristin IS TO Heidi
OR
Happy Sisters
Happy Days
Happy Mom
Happy Readers
un anniversaire de naissance IS TO birthday
as
Kristin IS TO Heidi
OR
Happy Sisters
Happy Days
Happy Mom
Happy Readers
Love the pink shirt on Jean Marc
Love the pink shirt on Jean Marc
Man, Kristin, you are so good at sharing the love. and once again you gave us the opportunity to do it as well! Happy Heidi Day, Heidi! I may just go buy myself a cupcake to celebrate!
Man, Kristin, you are so good at sharing the love. and once again you gave us the opportunity to do it as well! Happy Heidi Day, Heidi! I may just go buy myself a cupcake to celebrate!
Happy Birthday, Heidi!
Happy Birthday, Heidi!
OK Kristin, I know I am nitpicking, but the photo of the window of the boulangerie – I read the cursive as “Plus de Pain”, not “Pas de Pain”. Am I mistaken?? What am I missing?
OK Kristin, I know I am nitpicking, but the photo of the window of the boulangerie – I read the cursive as “Plus de Pain”, not “Pas de Pain”. Am I mistaken?? What am I missing?
KRISTIN,
I WAS MESMERISED BY THE PICTURES AND AND THE STORIES OF THE MAIL BOXES.. I JUST CALLED PAULETTE AND TOLD HER THAT I AM LEAVING FOR FRANCE TODAY. SHE THINKS THAT SEPTEMBER WOULD BE BETTER. THANKS FOR THE INSPIRATION.
GUS ELISON
KRISTIN,
I WAS MESMERISED BY THE PICTURES AND AND THE STORIES OF THE MAIL BOXES.. I JUST CALLED PAULETTE AND TOLD HER THAT I AM LEAVING FOR FRANCE TODAY. SHE THINKS THAT SEPTEMBER WOULD BE BETTER. THANKS FOR THE INSPIRATION.
GUS ELISON
Hi Kristin
Liked the photographs, as usual. Small typo: ‘dummest’, should be ‘dumbest’.
Hi Kristin
Liked the photographs, as usual. Small typo: ‘dummest’, should be ‘dumbest’.
Happy Birthday, Heidi. Hope your mailbox has good things in it. With email we don’t get as many greeting cards in the mail, but I hope we’ll still get slow mail, as it’s always a pleasure to open a paper card from a friend or relative on our birthdays.
Thanks, Kristi, for all the mailbox photos. Congrats on having a super sister.
Happy Birthday, Heidi. Hope your mailbox has good things in it. With email we don’t get as many greeting cards in the mail, but I hope we’ll still get slow mail, as it’s always a pleasure to open a paper card from a friend or relative on our birthdays.
Thanks, Kristi, for all the mailbox photos. Congrats on having a super sister.