The French, noticings

They are voluable. Did I already mention that somewhere? They really like to talk and to laugh, to crack jokes, and engage in conversation with anyone. A boon for me, as they have also been very kind when I speak, try to speak, French.

Round or roundish glasses are in. I feel so out-moded.

There are either big spoons or quite small spoons. Big spoons are often used to eat cake.

The French are so dramatic. They’re not sorry, they’re desolated: Je suis désolée. They’re not bothered, they’re deranged: Ça me dérange. When they kiss the cheeks, there is often a loud smack of a kiss. Women will wear stylish scarves around their necks even in 90 degree heat. Which it was here in Avignon today, the 28th September.

They have a word that seems to be too nice for garbage. A trashcan is a poubelle.

I’m impressed with the number of small independent shops that survive in small towns as well as larger cities. Not a Dollar General or Dollar Tree to be seen. Thankfully.

France seems to have kept more of its manufacturing: linens, blankets (really thick wool), electric hand dryers ( that work really well)… Haven’t run across any bidets though….

I’m an admitted Francophile. Vive la France! 🇫🇷

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