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Sunday, July 19, 2009

Social Commentary on France

On our last day in France, we thought we would think back on our month here and round up some fun facts, talk about stereotypes, debunk some myths and anything else we can think of about France!

They are in no particular order, just enjoy!

1. There are only 2 types of shredded cheeses in France and they pretty much taste the same!

2. We have tried two new chip flavors that we strongly feel should come to the U.S., Bolognaise which tastes like you have a mouthful of spaghetti and roasted turkey and thyme which is like eating a Thanksgiving meal!

3. The French really do say "ooh la la!" But usually in times of stress where we would say 'oh no' or 'oh my.'

4. The French really appreciate foreigners making an attempt to communicate with them in their own language before you assume they speak English. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone speaks English.

5. Dogs are allowed to poop everywhere.

6. The French love Michael Jackson!

7. The way of living is much simpler, there is no feeling of living in excess. There are no Costcos, no pantries, fewer TVs, smaller kitchens, fewer microwaves and we have yet to stay with someone who has a video gaming system!

8. Summer sales in France= Awesome!

9. Everyone eats bagettes! Around lunch and dinner time, almost everyone you see has a baguette or two under their arm.

10. French sandwiches are not American sandwiches. A typical French sandwich consists of bread, a slice of cheese, and a slice of ham.

11. Cheap wine is still pretty good wine! A 3 dollar bottle in France is way better than any Funky Llama!

12. Things we call 'French' in the U.S. do not exist in France. There is no French toast and no French dressing.

13. Things they call 'American' can not be found in America. Our best example is the American sandwich which is bread, a slice of meatloaf, french fries, and ketchup!

14. The French don't pronounce the last three letters of any word :)

15. All beaches can be topless, at any time of day, with any amount of children running around or public transportation driving by. And it always seems to be the people who should never go topless are the most comfortable doing so.

We have thoroughly enjoyed our month in France! We have had the opportunity to meet amazing people, do extraordinary things, and see the most beautiful places. While we are a little sad to be leaving this country, we are so excited to start exploring a new one.

Ciao!

6 comments:

  1. I love how you put no Costcos in there...that was just for Greg wasn't it?!?! Especially since we went there yesterday and bought wwwwaaayyy too much! I know you probably won't have internet for awhile, but I just can't wait to see pictures of Geneva! I'm SO excited for you guys! Boo says "HI" and Oscar sends kisses!

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  2. Wow, so it's been fasntastic foloowing you two around. Have fun with the Swiss and be safe :-) Auntie Suzy

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  3. What a nice way to end this portion of your trip. I have some other questions: 1) When you think of your time in France, what is your most vivid memory? 2) What was your favorite "touristie" thing to do? 3) What was your favorite meal? 4) What was your favorite new food? 5) If you could only go back to one place, where would it be? 6)What would you tell your friends not to miss? 7) Where were the friendliest people? 8) What is your favorite new wine? 9) How many cathedrals can you look at in a day (that's Dads contribution - lol)? 10) Will what you experienced in France change how you travel in Switzerland and Italy? 11) Do you still like each other having spent the last 5 weeks together?
    Love ya,
    With Kisses -
    MOM

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  4. For years I have heard stories of the beauty of Lake Annecy. In the basilica of the Visitation in Annecy St. Francis DeSales is buried. He is one of those people who formed many of my attitudes about spirituality. If you are in the area, stop in a say a prayer for me.

    Pat

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  5. Will you two be in or near Lausanne Switzerland?
    So glad you are enjoying the summer so incredibly much! WE ENVY YOU!
    We love your great blog!
    Bob and Lee Morris

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  6. This is quite possibly the coolest thing I have ever seen. You guys are so creative. You obviously are having the time of your lives. I love seeing you guys having a great time and enjoying each other in what I think is definitely the best continent in the world...but shhh...don't tell anyone I said that....GO USA!..haha You guys will definitely have to tell me how you guys planned this when you get back. Have a blast in the European Canada...also know as Switzerland (reference to neutrality…blah blah balh) ;)
    Love you guys,
    Dan

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