I will soon be returning to Paris, where I lived on-and-off between 2008 and 2019. It is an unexpected move — at once, exciting and daunting. Not knowing exactly when I’m leaving but having to decide what I’ll need and where to put everything else while I’m gone is not conducive to writing.
That said, bingeing on Emily in Paris inspired me!
I am considerably older than Emily, and I don’t work in social media, but I, too, have turned my camera on that breathtakingly beautiful city. And I certainly understand her struggles with the language and the French! I offer her advice in my new story on Medium: Ditch Mindy for a French Friend!
Please read the piece and leave comments on Medium. Thanks!
Mary Alexander says
I love your story and can’t wait to see what you think about Paris in the midst of the pandemic and now curfew. David and I blundered our way thru Paris and probably were the stereotypical American, but I did love the city Enjoy and relax on your “all expense paid late career European vacation”. Too bad that Your partner has to work but you can just enjoy. Look forward to more i sites into Paris.
Melinda Blau says
Thanks for your comments. To be sure, Paris will give me great “material.”
Françoise CROUZAUD says
I am Françoise. What a high praise !
Thank you my Twin Dwarf.
So funny and so true. When I read this article, I can see the faces … the butcher (Monsieur Grimal) , Stéphane, the cheese guy, the oysters guy. So many actors in this theatrical setting …
and I burst out laughing.
Can’t wait for more adventures when Melinda gets back to Paris, Will be soon on Netflix.
Melinda Blau says
Oh, I am so happy you liked this piece, TD. We lived it together. Netflix, here we come.
Holly Royce says
I did not know one’s family had to be in the butcher business to butcher the oh so melodious La langue francaise(I’m too lazy and busy to hunt for how to make a cedilla ).
I know many people, including myself who have butchered the language. My parents were
in the “schmata beezness” as Francoise (again no cedilla) so delightfully says.
I think you’re off on a marvelous adventure.
If you ever get to this neck of the what once were woods I would love to hear about those adventures.
Bon Voyage, take gloves and warm clothes.
Is Rocky going?
Melinda Blau says
Thanks for the good wishes. Of course Rocky is going. He will be a hit, as was Bogey. We’ll see how I do in the Paris winters. Stay tuned…