We meet a trio of angels. Did they deliver a message for Jean-Marc?
Friday, July 29, 2016
So many of you are now reading Diane's inspiring memoir about her time in France. I received my copy a few days ago and by page 16 I had teared up three times. I can deeply relate to Diane's longing for France! In an honest and very modest tone, Diane writes about what it is like to feel that innate pull that is calling you to France--and what it is like to venture here, all alone, after patiently waiting decades for the chance. Diane's book will encourage you to honor those longings.
Read Eight Months in Provence, A Junior Year Abroad 30 Years Late. It is never too late to fulfill a dream. CLICK HERE to order the paperback
For the Kindle edition or E-book, click here
TODAY'S WORD: accrocher
: to hold onto
ECOUTEZ - Listen to Jean-Marc pronounce today's word: Download Accrocher
On ne peut jamais tourner une page de sa vie sans que s'y accroche une certaine nostalgie. -Eve Belisle
We can never turn a page of our life without holding on to a certain nostalgia.
More practice with Exercises in French Phonetics
A DAY IN A FRENCH LIFE
by Kristi Espinasse
Creer, c'est vivre deux fois
Albert Camus said, "To create is to live twice." Anais Nin expressed it another way, "We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospect." Being someone with a split attention span, I am so grateful for this tool -- the ability to recreate or review meaningful events. I will put it to use, once again in this journal today, by remembering a very special visit we received this week, by a lovely Scottish family.
The woman had sent us a message, last week, explaining that she and her family had spent a month, almost every summer, renting this house by the sea (the home we purchased in August of 2012) and were nostalgic to see it again, four-and-a-half years after their last visit.
We welcomed the nostalgic trio as they stepped out of their car, at the end of our gravel driveway. Our golden retriever, Smokey, was the first to make contact, via a slobbery version of the handshake. Jean-Marc and I extended the greeting the traditional French way: la bise! We took turns kissing the mom, the dad, and then the teenager--who, I suspected, would have been more comfortable with Smokey's slobbery handshake.
Tant pis! Young Ross was about to receive another round of kisses, this time by our neighbor, Annie, who was presently walking up the driveway to share in this tender reunion! "I remember when you were un infant!" Annie said, cradling an imaginary baby in her arms. That was 14 years ago...."
"Why don't we walk over to the porch and have a glass of wine," Jean-Marc suggested. I watched, as the family took in the changing landscape. Several trees had been cut back to reveal a sweeping view of the Mediterranean sea. "It's lovely," Rona, the wife, offered.
Looking behind the house we viewed the forest where husband Robbie arrived after a morning run up the hillside from the opposite slope. Not far from there was Annie's house, where her grandchildren were about to charge down the path to play with Rona and Robbie's children, once upon a time....
We laughed as we listened to the stories of so many happy times spent in Maggie and Michael's summer house. Robbie was friends with Maggie and Michael's son, Alexander, and this is what brought the young family to spend summers here in Bandol wine country.
As they shared memories, Rona siting on the cement bench in front of the window, reached into her purse and produced a picture: it was the same scene, only it was her mother, sitting in the very same spot. I recognized the brown wooden shutters and the faded wall--and even a few cracks were there!
"Would you like to see inside the house?" I offered.
Our guests stood politely in the entryway. "The essence of the house is the same," Robbie remarked.
"That is so good to hear," I said. "When we first walked into this house, Jean-Marc was struck by a familiar scent. It flooded him with pleasant memories of cottages by the sea, and other happy times he had as a boy living on the coast of France. "We wanted to keep the relaxing "summer house" atmosphere intact," I added.
Walking into the kitchen, I pointed out that all of the tones were the same: wood and white. We had switched out a few elements, for a more functional work space. As the nostalgic family approached, one member tripped on the way in to the kitchen, which was a few centimeters higher than before. "Oh, and we changed the floor, too! Sorry...." We gathered around the kitchen window, some of us remembering yesteryear's view....
"Let's go see the former library and living room!" I said. Walking through a passage with a very low, wood ceiling, all the books from a previous life were gone--replaced by a worn couch where my daughter enjoys watching reality shows, and where Jean-Marc and I occasionally watch movies. "This is now the TV room," I explained. Did I feel sheepish? No! One day that awful reality TV would be shut off forever, and my little girl will be out of the nest. Oh! Now who was being nostalgic!
"Let me show you something..." I walked up two short flights of stairs, to the former living room which was now our bedroom. A copy of Diane's book was open, spine side up, on a bed made up in white sheets and covered with my grandmother's homemade red afghan blanket--perfect for a summer night's breeze through the open window!
"We used to watch movies in this room!" Robbie said looking around. Rona added, "we would project them across that wall!" And over there, was the couch where my mother slept when she went on vacation with us one year!" Missing was The Big Black Chair - belonging to Maggie's father. "The kids loved to spin in it!" Rona admitted.
"Oh, really? So did our kids! And my Mom, too!" I said. Nostalgia was now running rampant as we shared more and more stories of this gentle and much loved house by the sea.
As we said our goodbyes, Rona's eyes swept across the vineyard. "It is so nice to see how this place has been cared for!"
"I will be sure to let Jean-Marc know what you have just said. He is worn out after making it this far, and is going through a period of doubt--unsure of whether he can continue." Maybe I had overshared, for a period of silence followed my remark... But the next words, offered by Robbie and Rona, lightened my spirit.
"Thank you so much for allowing us to visit you. This has meant so much to us." Rona said.
Robbie added, "Coming back here--driving up the old lane--it was as though my heartstrings were running up the hill alongside of us."
I smiled, remembering those same running heartstrings Jean-Marc and I had felt, when we moved here 4 years ago. This visit by a trio of Scottish angels had helped to strike a hopeful chord. But would the melody reach a weary wine farmer? Is wishing so only to interfere with destiny?
COMMENTS
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as I read your reveal, I thought of the way the great vineyards and wineries have developed over generations even centuries in many cases. Also realized that in many cases the founder of these vineyards is unknown due to the passage of time. My point is it is not necessary for Jean Marc to complete his project in fact it is highly unlikely that he could if he continued working for the next 40 years. He is as the "Angels" pointed out an agent of change. One who respects the past history while looking to the future. You both can be proud of your accomplishments and keep on working knowning that the work will never end. It's the gift of life.
This year I started the Camino Francis on my 72nd birthday and finished 32 days later on what would have been my father's 99th birthday. Charlotte and I will celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary in September. Of course there were dark clouds at times but we worked thru them.
You can too.
Best of Luck
John
Posted by: John Hawke | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 01:21 PM
Sometimes we have to leave a place (or situation) to truly see what it offers us. Kids tired of university, nationals discouraged by their country's leadership, weary workers and fed up farmers -- taking a break is often the way for them to see life objectively.
Posted by: Cynthia Gillespie-Smith | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 01:36 PM
Exceptionally beautiful post today. Thank you for inviting us into your home.
Posted by: Lorraine | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 01:47 PM
How fortunate they were to have been able to return to the same cottage for 22 years...and in considering it her summer home to find it in good repair, well cared for and loved. I would love to be able to offer the same to another;the 22 years and the happy return.
Posted by: catharine ewart-touzot | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 02:10 PM
Dear Kristin , I was sorry to hear that Jean Marc is still feeling low and not sure if he can carry on with the vineyard . Maybe if you do decide to leave and sell it , that a burden will be lifted.
Whatever, I do hope he can soon feel so much better. Depression can come and go with no rhyme or reason. . Big hugs to you both and your lovely children all the way from Oz , lots of love Carole xxx p.s a lovely story today Kristin
Posted by: carole fitzgerald | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 02:11 PM
Dear Kristi,
Thank you for today's post. As I get older it seems I get more nostalgic about everything. I am sending healing thoughts to Jean Marc.
I am going to order Diane's book, and love the photo of the foutas. They are so colorful! I bought several when I was in Provence a few years ago.
Tish (from Powhatan VA) where it's terribly hot and humid.
Posted by: Tish Tyler | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 02:45 PM
John, Jean-Marc and I have just returned from a walk to find your comment. We are deeply touched by your words and your reading across the lines of todays entry. Your message helps so much. It is, as Jean-Marc says, beautiful. Thank you so much.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 02:49 PM
So true, Cynthia.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 02:51 PM
Thank you, Lorraine!
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 02:52 PM
Thank you, Carole!
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 02:55 PM
Hi Kristi,
Thanks for the beautiful post today! Hoping Jean Marc finds some encouragement in the comments! What a pleasure for you to share your home with the family who spent wonderful vacations there and have their lovely memories to share with you! Isn't it nice to know that your home has so many loving moments in its past and present?!
I know you are going through a difficult time and I am sending heartfelt thoughts and prayers your way.
I just downloaded Diane's book on my kindle. I will read it on our way to Ireland next week where I am looking forward to the beautiful scenery as well as the cooler temps! the last several weeks have been brutally hot and humid!
Posted by: Eileen deCamp | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 03:03 PM
Such a beautiful post. So many questions we all could reflect on. Today at the last minute I decided to stop at a café for lunch because the sky was so blue here in Dijon. A nice Canadian couple briefly visiting asked if I lived in France full time. I told them no, I couldn't be a real ex-pat because my love of St. Louis, MO and the Midwest run too deep. However, while planting our roots deep in a place, my husband and I have also made many changes in our lives we could not have predicted.
We recently went in the space of ten days from beginning the process of remodeling our home so we could stay in it forever to seeing a house we couldn't walk away from and signing on to a whole new project we couldn't walk away from at a time when we should instead be thinking about slowing down. In less than a month we packed most of what we owned (including plants in the garden), threw a lot away, and moved. It shocked everyone, but we just said, "Sometimes you have to take hands and leap." It was not something we had been looking for, but we both knew it was right.
One day soon Jean Marc and you will know what is right for you at this time in your lives and you'll either sink more roots or leap. God bless you and your family.
Posted by: Julie Farrar | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 03:11 PM
Thank you, Tish! And happy to see your comment about the foutas. Jean-Marc is taking me out on a date tonight (it has been a while!), and we will buy a few at the outdoor, nighttime farmers market here in Bandol.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 03:13 PM
Thank you, Eileen. And thanks for ordering Dianes book. Youre going to love it. Have fun in Ireland!
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 03:22 PM
Kristi, I always enjoy reading your stories of the visitors to your home and the special messages they often share. Today's post is no exception. May the love of your home and family continue to inspire Jean-Marc in everything he does. I also hope that both you and Jean-Marc will be able to take some time to rest, relax, and return rejuvenated. Sometimes, we need a break in order to make space for creativity. Sending you and your family my warmest wishes!
Posted by: Katia | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 03:23 PM
It was a lovely exchange for each of us.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 03:29 PM
Thank you, Katia.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 03:37 PM
John Hawke 's post brought tears to my eyes. Beautifully said - nothing else to say except - Have a great day and thank you for your sharing.
Posted by: Nancy | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 04:09 PM
Nancy, I agree. I believe John Hawke, with his message, is the 4th angel in this story.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 04:13 PM
Wow, Julie! So good to read your news and to relate to what you are saying. We cannot know what tomorrow will bring. On ne sait jamais ce que demain sera. Now to get two people to want to leap at the same time... I am so glad you both were in adventurous agreement! My best to Brad.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 04:23 PM
Dear Kristi,
Reading through tears, I found the comments from your readers to be truly touching. Considering life from a universal perspective, John Hawke's thoughts are especially perceptive.
In living dreams, sometimes the joy comes with the pursuit of the challenge. Once overcome, the challenge is gone and along with it the excitement. Sometimes the joy comes from the vision but sustaining what has been created can become mundane. The accomplishment, though, can become our legacy.
"To everything there is a season
And a time to every purpose, under heaven."
Our thoughts are with you, hoping that peace and serenity will ultimately settle into your hearts.
Chris and George
PS. We have two beautiful foutas, momentos from the most wonderful wine cruise through Normandie!
Posted by: Chris Allin | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 04:52 PM
Krsitin, nothing is written in stone ~ where we live, work, play or love. Life IS change. Sometimes it is two steps forward, one back. Other times it is full-on forward. But at the heart of it all, God has a plan for His children. It is obvious, because of your honest written snapshots, that you and your family have been blessed, but also have had some difficulties. That, too, is life. Wherever you end up, and whatever you do, when you are a family, you are HOME. As years go by, we all have decisions to make, whether they involve work, health, address, children or longings. Without any of these, life wouldn't be worth as much! So have many, many heart-to-hearts, and go with what emerges. God bless you all.
Posted by: Susie | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 05:27 PM
Stepping back and taking a look at what you have done and where you want to go is important. Take time to assess the situation - and pray for an answer. Sometimes the answer is right in front of us but we either don't see it or we ignore it.
Bon chance to JM and to you to find your direction, your road to the future and happiness.
Prayer for both of you.
Kathleen
Posted by: Kathleen from Connecticut | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 05:49 PM
I know how Diane felt since I did the same with a return after twenty years+ to an atmospheric house in the Loire valley not too long ago. I looked into the guestbook, turning many pages to find my handwriting where I said I hoped I could return. Everything was the same except for a few improvements like a new range in the kitchen and new flooring since some of it had rotted away. The wonderfully lovely owner who decorated and designed the remodel many years ago did it right the first time! Congratulations to Diane on her memoir. I know the work that goes into it since I poured my heart out in the same fashion. Best wishes! I look forward to reading it. Kristin, thanks for sharing. You are a generous and kind soul. Please give my love to Jean-Marc. I have an assured hope that better things will come.
Posted by: Debbie Ambrous | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 06:37 PM
I cannot help but think that when harvesting time approaches, Jean Marc's former enthusiasm and love of what he does will be rekindled and all will be well.
Posted by: Jeanne | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 06:41 PM
What a wonderful story, Kristi. I just bought Diane's book and can't wait to start it. I spent more than 30 years wishing I could live in France until I finally fulfilled that wish by selling up and moving. Like you and Diane I have a strong pull to this beautiful country. My thoughts are with you, Jean-Marc and he entire family. I too know the debilitating pain of depression. I never know when or how it will drop that curtain over me or when it will lift. Sending best wishes to JM and hoping I can visit after I return home next month. Bisous à tous!
Posted by: Jacqueline | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 07:16 PM
Your care is felt - how enriching!
All artists must step back from the canvas to gain perspective. All lives lived deeply have down times, time to reflect, recharge, gain direction. Just because J-M has been such a man of action, doesn't make this time of his life a negative, rather a maturing stage. There is always a period of inactivity & discomfort before one spreads his wings to fly.
Posted by: Betty Gleason | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 07:30 PM
Bonjour, Kristi,
À mon avis, on doit prendre des "date nights" plus souvent! On dit ici, en Amérique, "A happy wife, a happy life!"
Best to you both,
Joanne
Posted by: Joanne Ablan | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 07:42 PM
It's the unexpected beauty of certain events in life that often become the most meaningful. Timing is everything, as it is frequently stated, and perhaps the timing of this visit was fortuitous in offering peace to you and Jean-Marc. One breath at a time, mon amie.
Thanks so much for the introduction to Diane's book, I'm offer to order it!
Bises
Posted by: Patricia Sands | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 08:04 PM
I read every comment and they all were said with such love and compassion and joy! I loved your beautiful post and can't think of anything more to add to all your other readers' comments. All a big family caring for one another. Your Scottish angels provided one great 'meet up'!! What a wonderful experience for all of you! I just ordered Diane's book from your site - I can't wait to start it! With much love, Judi
Posted by: Judi in Lake Balboa | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 08:41 PM
Sometimes I believe life does begin at 40+. The best part of my life began when I was 47 and my husband was 52. And it lasted 28 years. Now I am alone but with so many wonderful memories - and scrapbooks of trips to France, Germany and Switzerland. Always keep looking ahead because often the best is yet to come. How great that you moved to Bandol and see so many visitors. Keep on keeping on - one day at a time. Best wishes for a future even better than the past.
Posted by: Diane Young | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 10:26 PM
I hope that Jean-Marc is able to take a break from what he has undertaken at your farm. As Betty, in her above comment, said so well: "All lives lived deeply have down times, time to reflect, recharge, gain direction." Stay close while giving him whatever space he needs (a tightrope, I know), so that you and he can do this together as he is ready.
Posted by: Leslie in Oregon | Friday, July 29, 2016 at 11:43 PM
Your post touched me deeply as we had recently returned to a place where we had spent many years making happy memories with family and friends. I had such a queasy feeling as if something was to happen or something missing or perhaps wondering why we ever left. Well, I should have know it was the nostalgia of times come and gone. We revisited two homes we had lived in and ran into both new owners out in front of their property who still lived there these 12 years later! Both invited us in to see what our former homes looked like as you offered to your visitors and I am so grateful for that opportunity. They had both taken care of those homes in kind ways much like you are doing now in Bandol. As we departed the area, I put to rest those queasy feelings as I knew we were returning to our home where we have been making even more happy memories. Today is our 49th Anniversary and with hope and health, we will celebrate our 50th next year.
I know you gave a special gift to your visitors by allowing them to remember special times. Whatever the future brings and wherever you may be, I wish you peace, contentment and I believe you will make many more memories in the days and years to come.
Posted by: Georgia | Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 12:11 AM
Our dear Kristi,
What a beautiful and meaningful post today.
You are so gracious to invite your trio of angels into your home and allow them the happy pleasure of revisiting former memories of their own there.
This is the gift you give to all of your readers,too--open a window to either inspire or revisit of our own life's experiences,in past or present,or maybe even in future.
I especially liked(and agree with) Chris Allin's remarks,particularly"To everything there is a time...."
There has not been a single instance that Rod and I did not
Perhaps contemplate the why's we were called to move to another
Place,pursue a different job,or just admit to age and capabities in keeping up with whatever we were doing.Always sureity that we were being led was(is) a huge comfort.
Blessing always to you and Jean Marc.
Love
Natalia. Xo
Posted by: natalia | Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 12:37 AM
Kristi- something of the same nature happened to me many years ago, that has always stayed with me. I think angles are being sent where and when they are needed. I live in a big house near a world famous university. Originally built as a single family home in the 19800's, it had been chopped into small apartments when I bought it, and I was determined to open it up again, and return a bit of it's charm. One day, a young man came to my door, and said that he had grown up in it as a child. I did the same thing as you, invited him in, and listened to the story of his growing up years, his family, and the history of the house. I had just demolished his bedroom, which had been carved out of a huge central hall. I also had taken a sledge hammer to a small bath that had been covering the hall fireplace. He remarked about this. He told how his father (a professor at the university) had died, and each year, the family made another small apartment by combining 2 rooms of the 3 story home. As the years went by, the father's death was keenly felt economically, eventually needing rental money so much that his bedroom was in the hallway, and he marveled at seeing the hall open again. I asked him if he still lived nearby, and he said "Yes, I pass the house every day to go to work". I then asked him why he came to visit today, after so many years. He said, "I don't know, only I was drawn to it today, and was thinking about my father."" "Well, I told him, "MY father died this morning, so maybe you felt that". He was embarrassed, said he should leave, but I assured him that I needed his distraction. The visit was a big help to me. As I said at the beginning, angels know when to appear.
Posted by: Nancy | Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 04:51 AM
....Your post today was so very touching... and I am sure the trio will never forget the day they returned to the house. Your kindness shows 24/7 and that is such a wonderful characteristic to have! I think maybe angels come to us in many forms, natural and un-natural... sometimes in the daytime and sometimes at night when we lie awake and wonder about our lives and love and cabbages and kings. JM will come thru this situation with you by his side, holding his hand. Sometimes life just gets so very hard to deal with and throws us a 'whammie'.. just duck ! My heart goes out to you both , however, I truly believe things will come right for JM and you. Mr. Hawke wrote you the best note ever... he would be someone worth knowing! God bless you and your family and don't forget your prayers at night ... I keep you both in mine. With love, Judi Dunn, Tallahassee, Fl.
Posted by: Judith Dunn | Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 06:17 AM
You have made me feel like I was there with you. I have been worried about Jean-Marc. I am just wondering if he suffers from asthma or other sleep issues. Two years ago, I started going through things much like you have described with him and my doctor suggested a sleep study. Things are much better now. I have a combination of asthma (which does not cause me to wheeze, just fatigue) and sleep apnea. Treating these has made me so much better.
Posted by: Sharon in N.C. | Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 08:44 PM
Hi Kristi and Jean-Marc
We just arrived home yesterday after our trip to France and would like to thank you so much for our lovely visit to Mas des Brun the other day. As soon as I got in touch, Jean-Marc did not hesitate to invite us to the house and we were really grateful to be able to meet up with you. As you probably noticed, we have so many happy memories of holidays there with our three children and sometimes extended family and friends over the years. We were always grateful to Maggie and Michael Moss for giving us the opportunity to get to know this area of France and to be able to use the house. As you mentioned our children played with the Pardellis children, usually games of "cache-cache" or "boules" in the evening and we spent many days at the coves of Port d'Alon and the sandy beaches of "Les Lecques"
The house has the same lovely feeling and you have made really beautiful improvements to make it work as a family home.
However it is what you have done with the land which really inspired us. In what seems like a short space of time you have cleared ground and planted vines which are now producing grapes. I was unsure how long it took from planting vines to being able to harvest grapes and produce wine but I was absolutely amazed at the progress you have made. I know that it is a dream of Jean-Marc's, to have a vineyard and it takes a special kind of person to have that kind of vision and to follow it through with all the sheer effort and ups and downs it entails.
I am sure that when Maggie's father bought the house (in the 1950's, I think) that that was quite forward-thinking and entrepreneurial at the time. What you are doing now is similar and you can be really proud of all that you have achieved already. As John Hawke said, this is the beginning of a truly remarkable process and you, Kristi and Jean-Marc are the people who had the vision and dream to set it in motion. We hope that the weather is kind to you and that you find the inspiration and drive to continue. It was such a pleasure to be a small part of that dream. Thank you, Rona.
Posted by: Rona Quinn | Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 09:34 PM
I am so touched by your beautiful story, dear Kristi! I needed this reassurance of the precious gifts, angels and blessings that are scattered throughout our days and lives.
I am stewardess to an old farm and have had many visitors throughout the years who share their fond memories of growing up here. It is very special to be in the presence of these people sharing their cherished memories with us.
The comments were equally moving and timely for me too, especially John Hawke's and Julie Farrar's. I am beginning to pay heed to what I must change and let go of in my life in order to feel better. Julie's words "you will know what is right for you...you'll either sink more roots or leap" describes where I find myself these days. Resting, trusting, watering those roots and waiting on a wing or a prayer.
Posted by: Stacy - Sweet Life Farm | Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 10:14 PM
A fine post and wonderful responses. So glad I came to visit today even if it made me cry.
Posted by: Jan Hersh | Sunday, July 31, 2016 at 02:13 AM
Clinical depression requires talk therapy with medication as an adjunct. Beautiful stories are wonderful but they will not cure depression, only help. I hope JM is utilizing both.
Posted by: faye lafleur | Sunday, July 31, 2016 at 08:28 PM
A beautiful post. Christ's peace and plan to you all. You are in my prayers each day. God bless, C-Marie
Posted by: C-Marie | Monday, August 01, 2016 at 01:21 AM
Please tell JM that this old man was and is impressed beyond amazement by what he has already accomplished and that includes your creations while living in your last home, opening a vista to the sea from chez vous, clearings trees, planting grape vines, and much more -- setting an admirable example of work ethic, persistence, and love of wife and family. We never accomplish all of our goals in life but being human we hate to slow down and face the consequences. Do not put yourself down for you are one successful man, husband, and father.
Posted by: Fred A Caswell | Monday, August 01, 2016 at 04:30 PM
Bonjour Kristi,
J’apprend le francaise ces annees, donc, j’essaye m’exprimer en francais. Desole pour tous mes erruers, et pour le manque d’accents avec ce veille (!) ordinatuer: Je lit votre blog quelquefois, et aujourd’hui j’ai ecoute un petite phrase (« …he is worn out after making it this far…) que donnez-moi une tres grande compassion. Mon cœur etais toucher au fond. J’ai un fils. Le plus jeune de mes quatre enfants, qui a eu un problem avec sa humeur et avec le depression tout sa vie. Maintenant il a trente-et-un ans et il est en pleine forme avec sa belle petite famille. Mais, aussi toujours avec le soutiens de son medicament et une regime d’alimentaire tres strict (parce-ce-que ses problems sont un condition rare avec un amino acid particulair). Mais quoi je voudrais la dis, est simplement que je comprend l’effort extreme necessaire de la famille. Particulairment, vous, la femme. Comme moi, la maman, nos cœurs sont tendre et tres susceptible a les emotions des nos proche. A vous, j’envoi les felicitations et je voir votre courage et votre loyaute formidable dans ses mots subtil. Quand j’ai lit ses petits mots, j’ai compris autant ce que vous n’avez pas dit et j’ai souviens un sentiment tres familiar dans mon poutrine. C’est pas facile mais c’est tellement important, votre fidelite. Je vous envoi mon soutien, felicitations, Catherine.
Posted by: Catherine Jackson | Wednesday, August 03, 2016 at 10:54 PM
Merci beaucoup, Catherine! Bon courage à vous et à votre fils.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Thursday, August 04, 2016 at 07:37 AM
I could not hope to add to the wisdom you have received from your internet family today (John Hawkes particularly). I can only say that my admiration for you --and JM!-- has grown exponentially since I signed up to French-Word-a-Day so many years ago. I have never ever skipped a posting; whatever my mood, I know I will be cheered, informed, encouraged, inspired. What you do with your journal is not as easy as it might appear: however honest, it remains subtle and discrete, never crossing the line of sharing into the awkwardness of over-sharing. The love in your family is only matched by the respect you have for each other and all this without ever being schmaltzy. The day lily is already blooming -- across the Internet and beyond --this one for Jean Marc.
Meanwhile, how can I do a Kristin Amazon.co.uk order? I live in London and love your recommendations.
Posted by: Evelyn Dunwoody | Friday, August 05, 2016 at 09:32 PM
Dear Evelyn, Thank you so much for your thoughts about my posts. Your note is most encouraging! As for purchasing on Amazon.uk, I am not an affiliate there, but thank you for checking. You can find most of these products there, too. Type in the exact title and the product should come up.
Posted by: Kristin Espinasse | Friday, August 05, 2016 at 10:30 PM
Dear Kristin & Jean-Marc...
This was a lovely read, and must have been nice for all of you involved, going down memory lane.
Don't give up, tomorrow is another day, and the sun will be shining, and when you look out from that lovely house of yours, nearly being blinded by the sun hitting the beautiful Med on the horizon, I can only repeat what I said recently, just look at what you have achieved so far, many would never have managed what you have, we completely take our hats off for the two of you...don't give up when going gets hard, and I also know that these words are easily spoken by someone who is not where you are, and I am for sure in no doubt it has not been easy, nor that it is yet...bon courage mes amis x :)
Posted by: Lis Steeden | Friday, August 26, 2016 at 04:01 PM