Happy Independence Day! Just another work day here in Paris and no fireworks until Bastille Day which is the 14th. But celebrate we did with a feast of American summertime classics -- hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans -- on the lawn of the residence of the U.S ambassador to France. For dessert, there were brownies and lemon bars and two of those giant American flag cakes, decorated with strawberries and blueberries although maybe not Cool Whip. There wasn't much French being spoken, and with the kids racing and chasing on the lawn, it felt very much like home. And it was one of those moments that reinforced the simple truth that spending a year in France, learning the language and drinking in the culture, the history, and the landscape, doesn't make one remotely French. So there was nothing to feel guilty about today, even biting into that burger with a Wonder bread bun and a slice of American cheese, just a simple celebration of who I am, American to the core.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Happy Fourth
Happy Independence Day! Just another work day here in Paris and no fireworks until Bastille Day which is the 14th. But celebrate we did with a feast of American summertime classics -- hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans -- on the lawn of the residence of the U.S ambassador to France. For dessert, there were brownies and lemon bars and two of those giant American flag cakes, decorated with strawberries and blueberries although maybe not Cool Whip. There wasn't much French being spoken, and with the kids racing and chasing on the lawn, it felt very much like home. And it was one of those moments that reinforced the simple truth that spending a year in France, learning the language and drinking in the culture, the history, and the landscape, doesn't make one remotely French. So there was nothing to feel guilty about today, even biting into that burger with a Wonder bread bun and a slice of American cheese, just a simple celebration of who I am, American to the core.
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2 comments:
Hello there!
Just wanted to let you know that I am enjoying your blog and following your experiences in Paris. I visited Paris and the French countryside & riviera recently and fell in love with it. It is fascinating to know the ins and outs of an American family getting acquainted with such a foreign city. Even though I have not been reading since the beginning of your blog, I have gone back and read every single post! Keep up the great work!
Thanks for your generous feedback.
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