When my daughter saw this photo, she recognized a favorite bar in Aix-en-Provence. I was actually hoping she would notice the old sign, above it. One thing's sure, we don't see things the same way. Read more about hunting for a studio in Aix, in today's story. TODAY'S WORD: une studette     petit studio    little studio    small room, accommodation, rented to students ECOUTEZ – Listen … Continue reading See Jackie’s new home in Aix-en-Provence! Apartments Tour & Finding student housing in France (It’s a jungle!)

We spent several days in the Alps, last week, and crashed a dinner party the last night. Read on, in today's story. CHOCOLATE WORKSHOP! Join two chocolate shop owners in Provence, France & learn how to make chocolates using French techniques. We’ll stay in a medieval village and roam outdoor markets, castles, and more! CLICK HERE. TODAY'S WORD: s'incruster     to invite yourself    to worm your … Continue reading How to say “To invite oneself over” or “to overstay your welcome” or “to crash a party”

  Thank you very much, on behalf of all of our family, for your touching messages following my beau-père's passing. Many of you noticed an error, throughout my story, when I referred to John as my "father-in-law." I really meant to say "step-father!" Did you know that the French keep it simple–by using the term beau-père for both step-father and father-in-law? I like this–especially as … Continue reading Thank you! + Pronunciation lesson by Benjamin Huoy

My one and only beau-père, John. My step-father passed away on Sunday. We are all in shock and facing the reality of life without this tender and loving man who knew the power of gratitude. "You and your sister are really nice," my mom said over the phone, as she tried to process the news. "But John–he was the kindest person I have ever met. … Continue reading Mon Beau Pere: my step-father passed away

Photo taken in our old stomping grounds of Orange. CHOCOLATE WORKSHOP! Join two chocolate shop owners in Provence, France & learn how to make chocolates using French techniques. We’ll stay in a medieval village and roam outdoor markets, castles, and more! CLICK HERE.    Your ad here. Reach 26,000 readers with your message. Click here. TODAY'S WORD: le genou      : knee ECOUTEZ – Listen … Continue reading Genou: an injury, a day lily, and good company & a Chocolate workshop in France!

My brother-in-law invites us to a barbecue…but getting to his house in Avignon, Sunday morning, would be another adventure! (Don't you love his "Vacation Hour" T-shirt? From 12 o'clock on, here are the translations: Wake up, Cocktails, Meal, Siesta, Boules (or Bocce ball), Cocktails, Meal, Hugs.) YOUR AD HERE. Reach 26,000 readers. Place an announcement in the French Word-A-Day newsletter. Click here. SABLET HOME – … Continue reading Go with the flow: Reveil, Apero, repas, siesta, petanque and calins!

So many of you are now reading Diane's inspiring memoir about her time in France. I received my copy a few days ago and by page 16 I had teared up three times. I can deeply relate to Diane's longing for  France! In an honest and very modest tone, Diane writes about what it is like to feel that innate pull that is calling you … Continue reading We meet a trio of angels. Did they deliver a message for Jean-Marc?

Joy alert. On the eve of the 1st anniversary of our dog, Breizh's, passing, there was a rainbow on the horizon. More joy alerts in today's story. YOUR AD HERE. Reach 26,000 readers. Place an ad in the French Word-A-Day newsletter. Click here. SABLET HOME – for high quality vacation rentals in the heart of Provence. Click here for pictures. FRANCE & MONACO We offer exclusive … Continue reading Don’t worry be happy & SAIP: the official government alert system to inform populations

Jean-Marc with friends who came to visit, yesterday. That is little Céline and Raphael, and Laurence (wearing the hat. Her father was best friends with Jean-Marc's father.) TODAY'S WORD: retourner sa veste     : to change sides (politically, etc), to go over to the other side ECOUTER– Listen to Jean-Marc read the following French words:Download Sound File Changer de camp ou d'opinion par intérêt et … Continue reading Retourner sa veste? Would we be safer in Mexico? State of Emergency in France