France

As I write my last entry from France, I can't help but feel a little sad to leave this lovely place. The wine, the food, the friends, the scenery...everything is just so beautiful in France.

Yet, off I go. Berlin is next, and sadly, last on the list. I am off to visit my long-lost German roommate/sister in her new European home.

Then 3 days later, and voilà, I will be home.

So now, I must display to the world, the wonderful city that is Toulouse... La Ville en Rose (The Pink City).

Maybe now Manny will understand just why the Toulouse Opera CD is not white and black but a lovely shade of pink...

I believe I see a theme forming here...

I just noticed P is suspiciously wearing pink as well. This I repeat, was not planned, and yes, I am dating a boy who wears pink... :p

So yes, I finally found my beautiful pink city. And I get/got to ride a free bike around it all day long. Oh how I do love France.

Bisous! à mardi!

Cris

I have put much thought into this list. Please feel free to add on to it.

I will translate it to French...if I EVER learn it.

10. The streets are made for people, not cars
Pedestrians have the right of way here...ALWAYS. If you are going to hit by something, it's probably a bike.

9. Wine, anywhere, costs less then soda
2 euros for a glass? Heck I'd rather have Rosè then shell out 3 euros for a coke.

8. The French mother/mère, is a work of art
She cooks like a pro, cleans like a machine, and dresses like a Kennedy. Ok at least my French mom

5. 7 year-old girls are more stylish than me:
Embarrassing but true. I think kids take Stylish Dressing-101 as enfants.

7. People actually say Oh lal a...ALOT
Though it is usually in lower tone and sounds like Ohhh la la.

6. Cafè, Jacque
My most favorite afternoon activity. Jacque (like backgammon but better) and cafe, though truthfully i drink tea, but shhh it doesn't rhyme.

5. Bikes are freeeee..well almost
Ok this is the best invention ever. For 10 bucks a month you can take out a bike one place in the city and return it to another. Truly genious.

4. French men:
They are well-dressed, well-educated, well-mannered, and still believe in romance...what's not to like?
See exhibit A:

3. The FOOD:it's no wonder 'cuisine' is a French word
Fresh, flavorful, and ohlala delicious, I just have one word: YUM.

2. Le Vin IS the best of the world. They weren't lying.
And they drink it with every meal! Though never too much, just enough to make you smile.

AND drumroll please...

1. Lunch NEVER ends:

First it's the entree, then the main course, then wait...the cheese. Yes they have it for dessert here. And just when you thought you couldn't eat anymore, they bring out a mouth-watering dessert. And wait, wait, wait..then there is #6 cafe/jacque which comes right along with,yes, more chocolate. All and all it a good 3 hour practice. And every bite is delicious. How do they stay trim Anita asks? I HAVE NO IDEA.

Bisous from France,

Cristina

Happy Birthday to the best Dad in the whole wide world (and I can confim that now).

Everyone who has ever met him, loves him. He is the smartest, funniest, and most loving man I have ever met.

And he looks like Jack Nicolson - or so he likes to say.

Thanks Dad for encouring me to explore the world and all of the beautiful things it has to offer. Without you, I could have never bought that ticket! I remember you distinctly telling me: "Beba you have to go on this trip. It is an adventure of a lifetime." And yes Pops... you were right!

So santé to my Pancho (mais pas des pieds)!

The best Cuban Pancho in the world!!

Pierre, live and in living color, was featured on national news in France yesterday.

Both he and Arnaud, who just recently finished their global wine tour, were interviewed in this very house and cast on France Television 3.

A star was truly born. Check it out for yourself:
(and practice your French while you are at it)

You can learn more about their trip and catch some terrific photos from around the world at: www.vinsdesglobes2008.com

And as for me, well, I am just lazily learning French and playing ALOT of backgammon with the famille Caizergues. I will humbly admit that I have beat the house champ, Fanny, three times in a row now :p

Here are some good 'ole family pictures of our Saturday tournament. I , of course, had to introduce an extra level of competition to our afternoon repetoire. And the end result: I lost by a landslide. Even 16 year old Manon kicked my butt. Way to go Bernardo!

Let the games begin:

Manon vs Cristina

Pierre acts too cool for school:

And well Fanny... just who is Fanny?

You be the judge!

Bisous from France,
Cristina

Welcome to the wonderful world of Handball, the thrilling European game of 7 on 7. Carcassonne surprised the nation last night when they put the number one team in it's place...last :-P

The 27 to 23 victory came after 60 minutes of a hard fought battle. Pierre emerged victoursly with 4 amazing, show-stopping goals, one of which the lovely Cristina Bernardo caught on tape.

So-ahem, ahem-drumroll please....

He runs, he passes(not), he shoots, he scores!!!!!!

And did it all thanks to me!

Please hold your applause for end of the match.

Bisous,
Cristina