bonne maman

Friday night, moments after Lorelei and I enjoyed yummy tamales for a great cause, a cute guy asked me: "Why France?" He was wondering what made me decide on this country out of so many others as the place I'd purse a master's degree. "It was the safest option," I replied. And it's true. I love art, food, and wine. Also, I studied French in college, spent a semester living in Strasbourg, and knew I had the most wonderful French family who'd care for me like one of their own. Moving to Paris was scary, yes, but I had a familiar safety net to arrive to. This past Saturday, I took a break from the city spend the day with Marie-Christine and Patrick.

Almost immediately upon arriving, we took a seat here, in the living room, to catch up as we enjoyed a pre-lunch apéritif. (I haven't seen them since Marie's birthday!) Then we moved into the dining room for the weekend lunch above: leeks vinaigrette, stewed turkey with potatoes and mango, puréed celery root, brussels sprouts, lettuce salad, camembert, tarte aux pommes, and, of course, wine and bread. We finished the amazing meal with small cups of strong coffee. I doubt I'd be in France now were it not for the goodness of Marie and her family. And what a shame it would be to miss out on apéro plans with the aforementioned cute guy... ;)