I’m still not learning French. Remember when I returned to France in April and promised I’d know French by Christmas? Here’s the update in mid October.
Like those 20 pounds I was going to lose. It’s just not happening.
Priorities
My French teacher, Annabelle says it’s all about priorities. She says that if I spent as much time on learning French as I do on writing blogs, I’d be on track now.
So friends, if you enjoy reading the blogs as much as I enjoy writing them you’re to blame, too.
I mean, which would you rather do? Sit and study a book, listen to CDs and French radio? Or go out on an adventure where you meet all kinds of people and run into new and fascinating things?
Time’s up.
Judging from your silence, you agree blogging is more fun.
Excuses
“I’m getting by.”
There are days when I don’t get into any trouble at all not knowing French. Of course that’s mostly when I stay inside writing posts.
“Helpful friends.”
You know the friends and strangers who have helped me out umpteen times. They’re still around and put up with my antics. French friends I run into less frequently; however, now shrug when they ask “comment allez-vous?” (How are you?) and I say no more than “très bien, et vous?” (Very well, and you?)
“Compliments.”
Every once in a while someone will congratulate me on saying a simple sentence in French. My recent visitor from the States, in fact, told me she was impressed that I could communicate so well. She didn’t see I constantly use sign language and she didn’t recognize the mispronounced words.
“Leaving town early.”
Leaving France before Christmas is the excuse I give now for not learning French by the holiday deadline. A trip to Istanbul and a tour of Nepal and Kathmandu is on the calendar for mid-November into December.
With that there’s planning, packing and studying up for another Barefoot Blogger adventure.
The new plan
When I return to the States for a visit in December get back to my lessons. It’ll be something to do and help keep me from getting homesick for France.
Maybe my grandson who will be nine-months-old can learn along with me. They say that six-months is the perfect age to start a second language.
Perhaps we’ll make a bet.
“Let’s see who learns French first? ” 
Categories: Around France, Blog, Chapter 4: Life in France Part Two, Learning French
We’ve found a wonderful local teacher for my husband, who wants to improve his French – he does lessons with her whilst we’re in France & then via Skype whilst we’re in the UK. She’s by far the best teacher he’s had, she’s patient but pushes him on & is also great for helping us out with local info & culture too! If you want to take a look at her website it’s http://www.franci-discendum.com/
Hi – sorry for the long silence but it has been manic here and am only just catching up with your blogs 😀 I will be back in Uzes on Saturday 18th – see you then?
Glad to hear from you. I was about to write. Yes, I’ll be here. Look forward to seeing you. Good thing your apartment’s on the up high. Guess you’ve heard about the flooding. Hope you get here safely. Let me know if I can help.
what with your fabulous attitude and lust for adventure, learning French would just be boring! Love reading about your exploits!!
Thank you my dear friend!
I wouldn’t worry about it Debby. You seen to be getting along just fine. Not knowing the language adds to the fun. Take your time and the language will fall into place one day.
Thanks, Ray. That’s comforting.
I get it. I was supposed to speak only French during my two weeks in France last month, and that lasted about 5 minutes. It’s really hard work, and writing IS so much more fun – SIGH. Always enjoy your posts. Kathy
I knew you would! When are you coming back? We could learn together!
A trip to Istanbul, Nepal and Kathmandu sounds incredible!!!! I am so excited for you to be living your dream!
I never knew I would have this chance to travel. Taking full advantage! You keep going, too! Thanks!
You probably know more french then you admit too… Just as the french know more English then they admit too. In the end it really doesn’t matter. A smile hoes a long way!
I’m smiling myself silly! It does help… Thanks!