Year: 2023

Jean-Marc, Travel, wine maker

From France to New Zealand: Jean-Marc’s Big News!

From the Mediterranean to Nouvelle Zéalande–Jean-Marc will be a traveling winemaker once again. After making wine in Italy (Sicily), The United States (Oregon), and around France, ce vigneron will now experience a longtime dream of blending grapes in New Zealand! We would like to thank Whitehaven Wines for this amazing opportunity! Read my husband's update, below, for more details.   TODAY'S WORD: LE VIGNERON (LA … Continue reading From France to New Zealand: Jean-Marc’s Big News!

Kristin Espinasse40 Comments
Ana, Ricci

We have a new dog. Welcome Ricci!

After a long wait, the family welcomes Ricci, a 3-year-old Mini Australian Shepherd from Aveyron. Following a conversation about the breed’s temperament, they traveled five hours to meet Ricci and another dog, Penny. Although Penny was not a fit due to barking concerns, Ricci’s calm demeanor captured their attention. Hesitant at first, they decided to adopt Ricci despite her lack of training and some initial challenges at home. The family is committed to helping her adjust, and love quickly blossoms as they embrace their new pet and navigate the ups and downs of dog ownership together. Continue reading We have a new dog. Welcome Ricci!

Kristin Espinasse49 Comments
tourism

“To get an eyeful” in French: An accidental trip to a “Naturiste” beach

Amidst fragrant parasol pine trees, see the charming blue umbrellas, lower right, in front of a highly sought-after restaurant and its terrace over the sea. Hiking down toward this turquoise paradise we had no idea it was a "no clothes" cove…  Too late, there was no turning back–not when we'd reserved a table at Chez Jo a week in advance! To View All Photos, click … Continue reading “To get an eyeful” in French: An accidental trip to a “Naturiste” beach

Kristin Espinasse19 Comments
Ana

Heartwarming in French: Ana & A Gift for the Birds

Today’s story is part wedding anniversary, part birthdays, part peanuts, and part people. You have already read a little about Max’s girlfriend, and today you’ll learn more about Ana (and why we love her). Are the photos in this newsletter appearing? If not, view all of them here at the blog. TODAY’S WORD: “Qui réchauffe le cœur”  : heartwarming, that which warms the heart A … Continue reading Heartwarming in French: Ana & A Gift for the Birds

Kristin Espinasse23 Comments
hope

Trépidant: French for hectic + Things we can’t control….

The sea and coastline, or littoral, in La Ciotat, France TODAY'S WORD: TRÉPIDANT     : frantic, hectic, chaotic, turbulent    : exciting, thrilling, exhilaratingA DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse Out on a morning walk with Izzy The Pocket Beagle, my mind jumps from thought to unrelated thought: Does organic milk have growth hormones? Do readers unsubscribe when I write about non-French-related … Continue reading Trépidant: French for hectic + Things we can’t control….

Kristin Espinasse33 Comments
Uncategorized

Bonne rentrée: Happy return to work or school (or a new fall season)

Returning to work or to school or real life demands after summer break? France wishes you Bonne rentrée. Some lucky dogs are still in vacation mode, though.  Photo taken in Cannes, where Jackie and I stopped after Villefranche. In the following story from the archives, Jackie is 16 and on her way back to school…. Le temps vole! Be sure to read to the end … Continue reading Bonne rentrée: Happy return to work or school (or a new fall season)

Kristin Espinasse8 Comments
Uncategorized

Words in a French Life: Lessons in Love and Language from the South of France

Some self-published books from when I began the blog. Words in a French Life was then published by Simon & Schuster If you are new to my blog, the following books and stories will help you get to know the characters in this ongoing memoir that began in 2002. You’ll also learn hundreds of useful and fun French words as you catch up on the … Continue reading Words in a French Life: Lessons in Love and Language from the South of France

Kristin Espinasse3 Comments
Dad and Marsha, Family Life, Heidi, Jackie

Faute de Frappe: Funny Surprise After My Dad Hits the Wrong Button

By the time the leaves turn gold in Lyon, we'll be meeting up with part of my American family. Read about our virtual meetup in today's story, and pick up a host of new French words. TODAY’S WORD: UNE FAUTE DE FRAPPE     : typing error,     : error made when hitting the wrong button A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi … Continue reading Faute de Frappe: Funny Surprise After My Dad Hits the Wrong Button

Kristin Espinasse16 Comments
Escapade, French Destinations, Jackie

Soyons fous! A Mother-Daughter Trip to La Côte d’Azur

Villefranche-sur-Mer, where Jackie and I spent three days last week. TODAY'S EXPRESSION: SOYONS FOUS   let's be crazy" or "let's be wild".  Soyons fous is a playful and light-hearted expression that encapsulates the idea of taking risks, having fun, and embracing the unexpected. It's a reminder that life is short and should be lived with enthusiasm and a willingness to explore new horizons. A DAY … Continue reading Soyons fous! A Mother-Daughter Trip to La Côte d’Azur

Kristin Espinasse52 Comments