One of the more frequent questions I receive is about language learning. People ask what classes I took, programs or apps I use, or books to learn French. Now, let’s talk about the book situation. 🤓 I have an embarrassingly large collection. And I use that term purposefully because I COLLECT these lovely books, 📚 with their spines so fresh and neat, but have I used them?? No, not as much as I should. 😬
Honestly, I am a horrible student at the moment 😅 and have learned 99% of the language through immersion. My work requires so much research and learning every day that I often feel that I don’t have the capacity (or time) to sit down and memorize all of the verb tenses for apprendre, découvrir, étudier, or trouver. 🤯
Yet, just because I am not focusing on traditional studying at the moment doesn’t mean I don’t want to. In fact, I HAVE to. I must pass language exams before I apply for citizenship (I place between a B1 and B2 right now). 🇫🇷 And every day, I choose something else to improve on—just one little thing. Sometimes it’s sentence structure, memorization of a new phrase, or asking someone to help me say a word better. If I am struggling with a particular word, I might ask a few people throughout my day. 🙋♀️ I keep at it until I get it right or someone gives me a perspective that makes it stick in my mind.
I was chatting with Emily @pariswinegirl yesterday about the challenges of living here as an ex-pat or immigrant. And that you have to take things one step at a time. The PROCESS of living here is often overwhelming. The key is giving yourself time, grace, forgiveness, and patience. 💝
Isn’t @elianacampo_ just adorable in this photo?! We are ONE day closer to the opening of the terraces and, along with that, sitting outside and soaking up the sunshine! Swipe 👉 through today’s carousel for our fav French SUNNIES 😎 , and then save 👇 your beautiful eyes from those harmful rays!
Bisous and big hugs 🤗 from France,
Shannon