Adios Spain! Bonjour France!

Bonjour!

So, its been a whirlwind of a few days since we arrived in Montpellier on Monday. Internet access here has been a bit more spotty so my blog posts may not be as consistent as they have been. Anyhow, on to the update!

We left the Wells' villa in Spain at the crack of dawn on Monday. Even though they were quite tired, Lauren and Terri got up and fixed us breakfast and coffee before we left. People such as these are quite rare in the world; their loving care, unselfish acts and hospitality given to us was truly a blessing. Thanks Wells family! Afterwards, we packed our Clio, said our goodbyes, jumped in the car and plotted a course for France. It only took us about two and a half hours (which would have proceeded quicker if we knew how to say ATM in Spanish. Maquina de Banking Automatic? Maquina de dinero?)


We arrived in Montpellier that morning and met Valerie, who ministers to the French community there. That afternoon, we had the opportunity to sit in on (and film) a home Bible study that she facilitates as well as an ESL course that she teaches to several natives of Montpellier. We enjoyed a delicious dinner that evening on la Place de la Comédie while Valerie taught us some quick French phrases and how their usage reflects some aspects of French culture.


There is a reason, Valerie said, that French was long the language of choice for European diplomats. It is naturally predisposed to taking a polite and courteous stance. For instance, whenever entering any store/food establishment it is customary to give an audible "Bonjour!", even if no one is visible. The same goes with leaving such a place; an "Au revoir!" is expected. Also, when approaching someone for assistance, your introduction goes a little something like this: "Hello! Excuse me, I hope I'm not bothering you, but I seem to have a small problem..." Your fellow conversant is now ready and willing to hear about your "small" problem, whatever it may be. Derek and I have found the French people to be quite friendly and accommodating, despite our very obvious lack of French skills and elementary knowledge of their customs. They have definitely defied the American stereotype of French culture: that if you do not speak French, they will not give you the time of day. Or that they hate Americans or all things American (the proliferation of American dance music shatters that one).


One stereotype that I've been glad to have reinforced is the quality of French baked goods. Bakeries here are absolutely amazing! There are all forms of tantalizing pastries, crepes, rolls, quiches, and breads that it's almost overwhelming. I've had the opportunity to stop at a few for breakfast this week and have chosen something at random each time. And every time, it's never failed to be melt-in-your-mouth delicious. So far I've had some croissants, a chausson aux citron, macarons(!!!) and a couple of different quiches. So good. I should really get some pictures of these confections next time I grab breakfast!



Over the past few days, Derek and I have been very busy filming and traveling around Montpellier with Valerie. So much has happened, much more than will fit into this update. I'll go over some of the highlights of out French travels in a subsequent post. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers, we look forward to sharing more with you all soon!

Adieu,

Derek and Patrick