This year has been full of work travel for me. The last couple of months have been particularly hectic, and in addition to travel within France, my job has also taken me to Bosnia, Haiti, Rwanda, Nigeria, and Kyrgyzstan. I got back last night from Bishkek and I've put together a short list of 9 ... Read More about 9 Random thoughts after several months of work travel
Things we do that hold us back as foreigners abroad
As a kid, I thought the adults in my life had it all figured out. I thought everyone was kind and caring, knew right from wrong, had great careers, was never sad, and had nice things. I thought that one day in the future, we'd all magically cross over into adulthood and that we, too, would lead ... Read More about Things we do that hold us back as foreigners abroad
A French textile brand I love
Have you ever bought something for yourself or your home with the best of intentions, but it has ended up in a closet somewhere, completely untouched, because you didn't want to risk messing it up? No? Just me? Well then, I admit it. I'll buy nice things that I actually need and then save them for a ... Read More about A French textile brand I love
How do you pronounce French words when speaking English?
When speaking a foreign language, how do you approach the pronunciation of words in your native language? Or the opposite situation... when you're speaking your native language and foreign words come up. Do you pronounce them like a native speaker would (if you're able) or do you say them the way ... Read More about How do you pronounce French words when speaking English?
My atypical experience taking the antimalarial drug Malarone
Last week, I returned to France after a hectic month or so of work travel that brought me to Haiti, Rwanda, and Nigeria. I truly had a blast with my team and our projects in each of the countries, but what I'd like to talk about here is my experience taking the antimalarial drug Malarone. Because ... Read More about My atypical experience taking the antimalarial drug Malarone
Why the Peloton app is about so much more than exercise
Human connection is an essential component of living a happy life. We all just want to belong and have people around us who are supportive, solid people we can live and laugh with as we move through life. Relocating to France has changed the way I connect with other humans on a variety of levels. ... Read More about Why the Peloton app is about so much more than exercise
Mid-summer check-in: Best and worst parts of life lately
Salut, everyone! How's summer? What have you been up to? France has been hit with some crazy hot weather lately but we're managing just fine with our new bedroom a/c unit. As some of you might know from following along on social media, my family came to visit back in June and we went to Provence for ... Read More about Mid-summer check-in: Best and worst parts of life lately
Everyday USA conveniences you won’t find in France
The USA is a huge country, and no matter where you go, you'll find all types of everyday conveniences that make our lives easier and more efficient. In France, many things we take for granted in the USA are done a little differently. Let's talk about them. ... Read More about Everyday USA conveniences you won’t find in France
3 French language basics that don’t exist in English
Language learning is a fascinating process, especially at the beginning stages when you know next to nothing about the language you're studying. You learn so many interesting things, and even today, I am still amazed by the French language -- new words, expressions, grammatical nuances, and more. ... Read More about 3 French language basics that don’t exist in English
I finally got air conditioning in France
As I type this at 9:56 p.m., it's 95 F/35 C outside. Temps topped 100 F today and there's no letting up until Sunday. France is in the middle of a heatwave, or une canicule, and sweet Jesus is it hot. I've told you before that winter is my favorite season and summer is my least favorite. I melt in ... Read More about I finally got air conditioning in France