Who knew?

It’s always a bit of a culture shock to step off the plane into another country. I remember this from when we lived in Japan. First impressions are so valuable, because within a few days or weeks (usually, anyway) the things that seemed strange begin to be the norm. So I thought writing down a few surprises would help me remember. Here is my “Who Knew?” list of my first few days in France:

WHO KNEW?

• Who knew that little kids speaking French would be so adorable? 

Our newly adopted grandkids

•  Who knew that French pastries would be even better than you ever could have imagined?

How does one choose?

Our favorite breakfast pastries: pain au chocolat and croissant aux abricots

Afternoon milles feuilles

                                                              

Lunch favorites!

Not to mention our dinner favorites: creme brulee and creme caramel!

•  Who knew that French butter could make U.S. butter taste like cheap margarine—and is as cheap as cheap margarine?

• Who knew that you would have to go a month without Internet (except when you are at the busy office) and that you could survive?

Our Toyota Yaris hybrid

At least our car is larger than this one

 Who knew that driving is like playing Dodge-em Car at Lagoon and that the prize for getting to your destination is still being alive?

• Who knew that there would be a Boulangerie (bakery) and Pâtisserie (pastry shop) on every corner and in the middle of every block and that everyone is compelled to stop every morning, buy a fresh baguette, and carry it proudly and confidently in hand to work? We have definitely mastered that art.

• Who knew restaurants don’t open for dinner until 7:00 p.m. and the busiest times are 9:30-10:30. The French enjoy their meals for a minimum of 2 hours but usually longer. While missionaries worldwide are to only spend a maximum of 1 hour at someone’s home for dinner, the French missionaries have an exception so as not to be rude. The minimum amount of time they stay for dinner is 1 hour. They try to gracefully leave by the time 90 minutes have passed.

• Who knew that singing hymns in French could be such an incredibly beautiful, spiritual experience?

Now Let us Rejoice - Vivons ce Bonheur (Live the happiness)

There is Sunshine in My Soul Today - Ce Jour, au Coeur J'ai du Soleil (This day in my heart I have some sunshine)

Let Us All Press On - Mettons de l'ardeur (Make Intense Heat)

• Who knew that even after spending 24-7 together, you could love your companion more than you ever thought possible?