Pastis & Bagels: A Foot in Each World

A warm bonjour from sunny La Ciotat. A mini update before we begin reading our chapter du jour. Today is Ana’s 30th birthday: Joyeux anniversaire, chère Ana. Also, Jean-Marc and his sister are about to begin this year’s “carénage” (sanding and repainting of our old wooden boat). I’m about to head off to the gym after editing this post. Enjoy the pictures that accompany Jackie’s … Continue reading Pastis & Bagels: A Foot in Each World

Six Days Together in La Ciotat: A Sample Itinerary

TODAY’S WORD: revenir : to come back PRONUNCIATION: ruh-vuh-neer On revient en juillet pour entendre les cigales.We’ll come back in July to hear the cicadas. A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse It’s Jackie’s turn to write, but as she and Vinny are en route to the airport—on their way back to New York—I’ll step in with a brief summary of the week. Let’s call … Continue reading Six Days Together in La Ciotat: A Sample Itinerary

The Mailbox in the Tree: a Metaphor about Belonging

TODAY’S WORD: “la cousinade” : a family gathering of cousins and extended relatives, often spanning several generations EXAMPLE SENTENCE:Depuis plus de trente ans, nous participons à la cousinade en Provence.For more than thirty years, we’ve taken part in this family reunion in Provence. Taxes? Même pas peur! Not even scared! If you’re living abroad and tackling your 2025  impôts, try ExpatFile. It’s straightforward, efficient, and costs … Continue reading The Mailbox in the Tree: a Metaphor about Belonging

A crowded house, a bold thief, and our new roommate, Surly

A few weeks ago, Jackie and Vin had a run in with some nonchalant thieves. Don’t miss the story. What a relief—I’ve filed my taxes! If you’re living in France or anywhere abroad and tackling your 2025 impôts, I’ve had a good experience with ExpatFile. It’s straightforward, efficient, and costs significantly less than many alternatives—and they’re currently offering a $40 discount. You can visit ExpatFile … Continue reading A crowded house, a bold thief, and our new roommate, Surly

Rayol-Canadel: A Postcard Perfect Destination You’ll Want to Write Home About

This week my mind is busy with a few to-dos: write today’s story for the blog and get started on taxes! For those of you living abroad and beginning your taxes, I’ve had a good experience with ExpatFile. It’s straightforward, efficient, and costs significantly less than many alternatives. Visit ExpatFile for more info. Now, onto today’s chapter. Enjoy! TODAY’S WORD: le pigeonnier : dovecote, pigeon … Continue reading Rayol-Canadel: A Postcard Perfect Destination You’ll Want to Write Home About