Month: June 2025

Kindness of strangers, Uncategorized

La Débrouille: How a Young Postal Clerk Saved the Day

The post recounts a challenging yet humorous experience of a writer struggling with a book order surge after announcing a promotional sale. Initially underestimating stock, the writer realized just thirteen signed copies were available, leading to panic over fulfilling orders. Amidst frantic packing, they creatively considered altering a few signed copies to meet demand. Despite worries of a significant loss due to rising shipping costs, a chance encounter with a helpful postal clerk named Flora transformed the situation. Ultimately, the experience turned into a small profit, reinforcing the value of seeking assistance during tough times and fostering new connections. Continue reading La Débrouille: How a Young Postal Clerk Saved the Day

Kristin Espinasse20 Comments
Uncategorized

Le Frigo: No Fishy Business in the Frigo, SVP!

A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE…It’s Monday morning and I’ve typed up a rough draft for Thursday’s post, stuffed towels and Kleenex in an upstairs window frame to keep out the heat, washed a few loads of clothes, and made lunch (a quinoa salad with whatever needed using up in the fridge). While putting the salad away to chill, Jean-Marc came in from fishing. Holding … Continue reading Le Frigo: No Fishy Business in the Frigo, SVP!

Kristin Espinasse21 Comments
Celebrations, La Renaissance Française, Milestones

La Renaissance Française: A Legacy of Cultural Exchange

La Renaissance Française, a century-old institution, honored Kristin Espinasse with La Médaille d’Or des Valeurs Francophones. After delays due to a pandemic, a heartfelt ceremony in Paris celebrated her contributions to French culture. The event underscored the importance of language and cultural exchange, and Espinasse’s journey was warmly acknowledged. Continue reading La Renaissance Française: A Legacy of Cultural Exchange

Kristin Espinasse80 Comments
Uncategorized

Tchin-tchin: A Memorable Birthday Tour in Southern France

TODAY’S WORD: tchin-tchin : cheers (a toast)PRONUNCIATION: [tchin-tchin] EXAMPLE SENTENCE:Au Domaine du Banneret, tout le monde a levé son verre de vin—tchin-tchin!At Domaine du Banneret everyone raised their wine glasses, tchin-tchin! A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse At the historic Château de Mille, I’m standing in a stately garden, amidst a fragrant roseraie, encouraging a convivial group from Atlanta to smile for a photo. “Now … Continue reading Tchin-tchin: A Memorable Birthday Tour in Southern France

Kristin Espinasse22 Comments
cats, Eulogy

Sacrée Lili: OneTough Cat With a Tender Role

TODAY’S WORD: sacré(e): (adjective) — sacred, but also used ironically or affectionately as “darn,” “dear,” or even “that rascal of a…” PRONUNCIATION: [sah-cray] EXAMPLE SENTENCE:Sacrée Lili! Elle râlait toujours, mais elle nous faisait sourire.Dear old Lili! She was always grumbling, but she made us smile. NOTE: You’ll often hear the French say sacré followed by someone’s name, like sacré Jean-Marc, as my mother-in-law used to … Continue reading Sacrée Lili: OneTough Cat With a Tender Role

Kristin Espinasse27 Comments