“Smala” & Family Visit to Cassis, Aix-en-Provence, Marseilles

Kristi Espinasse shares her joyful experiences with her American family visiting Cassis, France, for the first time. Their week has been filled with activities like beach outings, farmers market trips, and cliff diving. They explored several picturesque locations, including Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, while enjoying the cultural differences. A highlight was a family gathering at Vieux Port, where despite language barriers, the reunion was a success. As Kristi reflects on the importance of family time, she embraces the concept of “smala,” meaning big family. She cherishes these moments together, even as she contemplates obligations at home that prevent further travels. Continue reading “Smala” & Family Visit to Cassis, Aix-en-Provence, Marseilles

Engagement is a “faux ami” + Welcoming a Pet into the Family & Responsibility

"Adopt Don't Shop"… is that even debatable? And yet the decision between adopting from a shelter or choosing a puppy from a breeder isn't always straightforward. Read Jean-Marc's essay about our current dog dilemma, and we welcome your thoughts and experiences in the comments. (Picture taken at one of the animal rescue centers we visited this month). Today's word is a faux-ami or false cognate … Continue reading Engagement is a “faux ami” + Welcoming a Pet into the Family & Responsibility

How to say “to fall for it” in French? + the charming “door curtain” (photos)

If you thought the previous story was a bit fishy… it was! (Photo of the fishmonger’s taken in Brignoles.) Today’s word, an expression, really, comes from a comment following Monday’s post. Claudette Kunsay writes: Oh! Kristin, je suis tombée dans le panneau comme bcp d’autres !!! Et j’étais si fâchée contre ces hommes de loi!!! Je trouvais la situation ridicule mais, tout est possible. Oh, Kristin, … Continue reading How to say “to fall for it” in French? + the charming “door curtain” (photos)

Retrecir: A Suprise in our Renovated Bathroom….

While filming Smokey (trotting the flower-flanked trails at a nearby calanque), my video recorder broke! For now there is a grand total of three clips at my YouTube channel. Thanks for taking a moment to view them and to subscribe to the channel. (Photo of Jean-Marc in a gypsy trailer we once tried to buy. Wish we hadn't let this one pass us by!) rétrécir (ray-tray-seer) … Continue reading Retrecir: A Suprise in our Renovated Bathroom….