Best Memories Our First Year in France I


Just a year ago today we were in Cynthia’s (Tricia’s sister) basement putting the finishing touches on packing for our move to France, our friend Dave was set to pick us up on the 14th to take the three of us, Tricia, Neville, and me, to the airport. This was an endeavor that began in…

Follow Your Mind The Art Will Follow


Let me begin by reporting that Shirley is practicing her croissant sketches, though I fear she eats two for every one she sketches, thankfully they know a good boulangerie that is nearby. I know a lot of folks that read this also sketch, be sure to tag me when you post something as I would…

French Eating – Apéro Time


Apéro or Apéritif. In France apéro is just short for apéritif. In the USA an apéritif is an alcoholic beverage enjoyed before a meal, in France it is an event and one of the most enjoyable components of the meal, at home or out. The closest concept in the USA to the French apéro would…

Aquarelle, Graphite and Shirley


This has been an interesting, well OK, challenging week as far as the French System goes, but thankfully graphite pencils, watercolor markers, and friends got me through. Last week we returned from five days in Paris with Alexis and Joe. Wednesday evening we said our goodbyes. They left early Thursday morning for CDG and flights…

An Expat’s Struggles With Ordering Food


The stereotype for many in the USA is that the French are not friendly, well after multiple trips to France, and living in France for a year I can say that is just not true. In general the French are so kind and helpful. When we butcher their beloved language they may correct a bit…