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
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!
Terminal 1 at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. Photo: Dmitry Avdeev TODAY’S WORD: BOUGEOTTE : wanderlust, travel bug : restless, ants in your pants, move about A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE by Kristin Espinasse Special thanks to those who have signed up for one of Jean-Marc’s Provence Wine Tours. For anyone interested, there are a few places left so don’t delay. And now, … Continue reading Bougeotte = Wanderlust, the need to move about + A New Attraction The Paris Airport
In this blog post, the author shares reflections on their daughter Jackie’s travels after graduating with her UI degree. As Jackie flies to Paris, the author muses about lengthy airport layovers and the temptations of expensive food and retail options at airports, particularly Charles de Gaulle. They express concerns about their blog’s declining readership due to the rise of social media and ponder ways to adapt to changing times. The author is also dreaming up a side gig while finding enjoyment in simple activities like dog watching at the airport. The piece blends personal anecdotes with insights on modern airport experiences. Continue reading Indice: Jackie’s Airport Layover + A “flighty” Hint or Clue Regarding Something I’m Up To
Punaise! When I heard about the bed bug epidemic in Paris, I almost canceled plans to see my best friend. I’m so glad I didn’t let those punaise reports destroy this joyful reunion. TODAY'S WORD: Punaise! : Darn! Oh no! Oh dear! Punaise also means bug or “bed bug”. The exclamation may have been born of the horror of seeing the crawly creatures, i.e. … Continue reading Punaise! Our Hotel in Paris had a little bug (and not the kind you’re thinking)….
On a train journey back from Paris, Kristi reflects on feeling hungry and shares insights about social norms surrounding food in France. She contemplates the appropriateness of eating at unusual hours, specifically her craving for gourmet leftovers after missing lunch. During her trip, she observes fellow passengers enjoying snacks, which fuels her internal debate about breaking cultural norms. Ultimately, she decides to embrace her hunger and eat her meal, finding relief in the absence of judgment. The piece highlights the author’s humorous struggle with societal expectations and includes a lesson on the French vocabulary word “la fringale,” meaning hunger or cravings. Continue reading La Fringale: At what hour do the French get the munchies?
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
In France, a new law is being implemented to minimize greenhouse gas emissions caused by clothing during the summer season. Citizens are encouraged to wear less clothing, with limits falling from 1 kilogram to 700 grams by mid-June, and another 200 grams by July. Failure to comply will result in a fine or civil service. Some towns along the French coast may even require citizens to go about without clothing.
Continue reading The French Speedo is Back as France strips down for the Climate
In this reflective piece, Kristi Espinasse shares wishes for the New Year, emphasizing the importance of love (amour) and peace (paix) as conveyed by the Parisian crowd during celebrations. The author considers personal growth, seeking meaningful words for 2023, including “patience” and “gratitude,” while expressing a desire to move away from negativity. Through scripture, she highlights love as a powerful force that promotes forgiveness and connection. The piece ends with a heartful encouragement to forgive oneself and others, focusing on love as the guiding principle for the year ahead, encapsulating the spirit of hope and resilience. Continue reading Two Most important French words of the Year from the Champs Elysées
In the enchanting evening of Paris, the author reflects on the joy of flânerie—strolling without a specific destination. Surrounded by Montmartre’s beauty, particularly the Sacré Coeur Basilica, the author’s journey with her daughter Jackie unfolds as they ponder their limited time in the city. While planning activities like dinner and a cabaret, uncertainty arises about their options. Ultimately, they embrace the idea of wandering, highlighting the allure of exploration in the City of Light. The author contemplates the importance of savoring moments together before Jackie’s departure, expressing a desire to share more stories about their experiences in Paris. Continue reading Every Francophiles Favorite F Word + 2 Days in Paris!
