I’m still not learning French. Remember when I returned to France in April and promised to learn 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 thinks I’d be on track if I spent as much time learning French as writing blogs.
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 on an adventure where you meet various people and discover 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 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. I run into French friends less frequently; however, I 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. In fact, my recent visitor to Uzès from the States 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 are 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, I will 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 with me. They say 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!