“ETINCELLE” This last chapter is the chance to end the year on a meaningful note. Je ne veux pas le rater. Yet I sit at the dining room table, facing the blank screen, listening for inspiration as the rain falls outside. “Il pleut, Bergère !” Jean-Marc sings. Behind me, my husband is tinkering in the kitchen: pots and pans meet like noisy tambourines as he … Continue reading Étincelle: A Quiet Spark of Faith
TODAY’S WORD: la confiance : trust; confidencePRONUNCIATION: [lah kon-fee-ahns] EXAMPLE SENTENCE:La confiance se construit pas à pas, quand on accepte de s’appuyer sur les autres.Trust is built little by little, when we allow ourselves to lean on others. A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse Written during the final weeks of preparing this book. Today I’m sweating my way through a spontaneous challenge: … Continue reading Confiance: How to say trust in French (a book update)
TODAY’S WORD: l’aidant(e) : caregiver PRONUNCIATION: [lay-dahn(t)] A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse Two weeks ago, Mom moved into the house—into Max’s old room. She immediately loved the firmness of the mattress, the cozy space, and the way the wooden shutters blocked out all the light—perfect for nap time. She packed only her toothbrush, in her pocket, and, for the fortnight that … Continue reading How to Say Caregiver in French (and in the Cosmos)
Today’s the day! Or should I say, tonight’s the night? Depending on where you are in the world, my live webinar with The Alliance Française begins at: 1pm PT / 2pm MT / 3pm CT / 4pm ET. Here in France, it will be 10 p.m., and I’m looking forward to speaking with you—live from my kitchen table. Your presence means a lot to me. … Continue reading Prise de Bec: A Little French Fight in Manhattan
NOVEMBER 19th – Join me (Kristi) for a Webinar vivifiant!This coming Wednesday, I’ll have the honor of speaking with Margot Steinhart, President of La Renaissance Française, USA, and Renée Amory Ketcham, Vice President of the Federation of Alliances Françaises USA, in a lively conversation about receiving, in Paris, La Médaille d’Or des Valeurs Francophones and my book A Year in a French Life. 👉 The event is … Continue reading French Oysters & American Weddings: Finding Joy Between Two Cultures
In today’ post, “Éphémère”, a fleeting sand sculpture of La Crucifixion, created by a traveling artist, captivates beachgoers while highlighting the ephemeral nature of art. As Ricci reacts to the artist, the scene underscores the contrast between the temporary artwork and the eternal message it conveys. The artist, identified as a wandering nomad, invites appreciation through a sign that reveals his travels and artistic purpose. Although the sculpture is destined to be washed away or trampled, it momentarily enriches lives and prompts reflection on both the momentary and the everlasting. Continue reading A Surprise at the Beach & Ephemeral Art in France
Kristi and her mother, who has been struggling with an autoimmune condition, embark on a two-day trip to the Camargue, hoping to uplift Jules’s spirits. Despite initial reluctance, Jules eagerly participates, reveling in family connections and new experiences. The journey brings joyful memories and strengthens their bond, emphasizing resilience and adventure. Continue reading Cheval: Jules meets the Wild Horses of the Camargue
In this blog post, Jackie shares insights about Brooklyn’s unique culture, particularly the joy of “stoop finds,” where locals leave unwanted items on their doorsteps. She reflects on her experiences treasure hunting, discovering everything from furniture to household items left by others. Jackie emphasizes the rich history of stoops in New York, designed to elevate entrances above dirty streets. The newbie Brooklynite describes the thrill of these finds as a personal benefit amid the high living costs in wealthier neighborhoods. The post combines storytelling, humor, and a sense of community, showcasing Brooklyn’s charm as seen by a French native. Continue reading Le Perron: A Fun New Sport for a French Girl in Brooklyn
A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE Our house was especially quiet the morning of our wedding anniversary, with only the sound of a critter shuffling around in the attic and the pepper tree branches swaying in the breeze. Outside, the wind was picking up, carrying with it the chill of fall. I was about to mention the mouse when, “Happy 31st!” Jean-Marc said before hurrying … Continue reading From La Ciotat to Cape Cod — A Beach Story (with Cake!)
TODAY’S WORD: survivre : to survivePRONUNCIATION: [sur-VEEV-r] EXAMPLE: « J’essaie de survivre à New York. » — I’m trying to survive in New York. How to Be Street-Smart in an Expensive Cityby Jacqueline Espinasse I knew about inflation. I knew prices were higher in big cities. But nothing prepared me for a $12 block of Greek feta cheese. At this moment in my 28-year-old life, that teeny-weeny square of dairy whispered, “You’d better hustle here…” … Continue reading Survivre: Think Like a European, Love Like a Mom
