Family time in La Ciotat: Nephew Payne, girlfriend Maddi, Jackie, Ana, Max, my sister Heidi and my niece Reagan. Don’t miss today’s story! MERCI!A heartfelt merci to those who have ordered a copy of A YEAR IN A FRENCH LIFE! Four weeks after publishing, over 500 books have found their way into readers’ hands. If you haven’t yet picked up a copy, please know that … Continue reading Par Avion: A Creative Solution to Postal Fees in France
I’m sitting at the kitchen table, surrounded by packing tape, cardboard, and a giant felt-tip marker. A lingering boycott has led readers to ask if they can buy directly from me. I’m not exactly equipped for this change of plans, but thankfully, Jackie had a stack of large manila envelopes—so now I’m back in business! Outside my window, a light rain comes and goes, slowly … Continue reading Rainy Day
A YEAR IN A FRENCH LIFE — VOLUME ONE Dear Readers, In just one week—on March 6th—my paperback memoir will officially launch! This full-color, 308-page labor of love is finally ready to meet the world. But will the world be able to find it? That’s where you come in! I need your help. If you’ve been thinking about getting a copy for yourself—or for a … Continue reading Chenille: Curious Caterpillars in La Ciotat & Exciting Book News!
I once thought giving up alcohol would make dining out less enjoyable—how could I savor a meal without a glass of wine? But with so many delicious things to eat and to see, I don’t miss drinking. Just look at this charming pup and the inviting French menu. Life is full and vibrant on the other side. More in today’s story! TODAY’S WORD: LE TÉMOIGNAGE … Continue reading Temoignage: Why I don’t drink alcohol in France (or anywhere)
I woke up this morning thinking, “I could really use a clog to illustrate today’s post.” Later, Jackie and I were at the mall when we stumbled into a second-hand shop…and found this sabot. Now that’s serendipitous! TODAY’S WORD: LE SABOT : clog Did you know the word sabotage comes from sabot? The term sabotage is believed to have originated during the Industrial Revolution in … Continue reading Sabots: Clogs, Sabotage & Standing Your Ground in France!
Jackie and Ricci ordering tea and a Galette des Rois at Le Nageur café on the old port in La Ciotat. For more photos and to stay connected, follow me on Instagram @kristinespinasse TODAY'S WORD: INÉBRANLABLE : unshakeable, unflappable A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse Hej! That's bonjour in Swedish. Twenty-five years ago, before taking the leap into writing, I … Continue reading Inébranlable: Unflappable in French (A Mother-Daughter story)
A story of old friends and the necklace that connects them–and all of us. TODAY'S WORD: LE COLLIER : necklace A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse When our friends Charles and Martha arrived from Florida, they came bearing gifts: bottles of wine for Jean-Marc, Worcestershire Sauce and giant jars of beurre de cacahuète for the family, and a whimsical necklace … Continue reading Le Collier: Mom receives a symbolic necklace
The world feels upside down when posting a giant ice cream cone in France while California faces devastating fires. Today’s story, written before reading the news, is shared with the hope of offering comfort. Life can feel completely out of our control, but we can keep faith and continue giving—however we’re led to give. TODAY’S WORD: Doux rêves : sweet dreams (noun) The … Continue reading Doux Rêves: On Giving & Letting Go
TODAY'S WORD: LA RECONNAISSANCE : acknowledgment, gratefulness A YEAR IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse And just like that, 2024 has come to an end. As they say here in Provence, Bon bout d’an!—happy end of the year. How quickly the months have gone by. Like the gentle breeze sweeping the neighborhood leaves across the seafront, le temps vole! But to where, … Continue reading Adieu 2024: A Year of Lessons and Unexpected Blessings
The following story is a reminder it’s the thought that counts, so don’t stress over gift-giving this season (easier said than done, I know…) TODAY’S PHRASE: C’est le geste qui compte [say-luh zhest kee kohnt] : it’s the thought that counts A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristi Espinasse Entering the studio on the side of our house, I find Mom bundled in bed, … Continue reading C’est le geste qui compte: A phrase to remember during gift-giving season
