Cette Semaine
Francesca and I had made plans to walk around and grab coffee while the boys were at basketball practice. In the gym, I found myself in small talk with Juliette and another mom from the team while waiting for her. When she arrived, the vibe just didn't seem right to extend the invitation, so we headed out on our own. However, as we sat in a little café called Le Cyrano in the St. Charles neighborhood, we spotted them walking by across the street. I waved, calling out "Venez ici!" with a gesture inviting them to join us. They accepted, and soon we were in a French conversation, with occasional English assists from Juliette or Marine. I found myself grappling with the French etiquette of splitting the bill versus treating everyone. In the end, I went with my gut and covered the tab for all the coffees—a mere 8 Euros, it felt like the right thing to do. Rain sprinkled as we chatted, but it only added to the moment, and I am happy that our paths had crossed.
Stacey extended an invitation for us to go to "La Belle au Bois Dormant" at La Gare du Midi on Friday night. The ballet opened with a male dancer in a flowered skirt, having a spooky presence with his movements. The next scenes featured fairy dances, ending in the breaking of the spell by true love's kiss. The ballet dancers' strength and grace left us in awe, effortlessly bringing the magical tale to life on stage. This ballet definitely ranks among the best we've seen.
Charlie finally went to his first JAB basketball game in Idrun, near Pau. While the team geared up in the changing room, Gabe and I debated whether to have a coffee or beer—yes, beer at a morning game was an option. It was 11am. What happens next - well I just have to tell you. Gabe and I are sitting on the bleachers, sipping our steaming hot coffee from flimsy plastic cups. Just as the kids emerge from the changing rooms, the gym erupts with beats of "Imma asshole" and "So I grab her by the ass yo." Then on to DMX and Eminen. Gabe and I exchange a look, struggling to contain our laughter at the sheer absurdity of the situation. It could have been straight out of a hilarious sketch. I highly doubt the parents have any idea of the lyrics' meaning. Or maybe they just don’t care? Despite the unconventional soundtrack, the kids played well, even in defeat. After the game, we explored Pau, eating delicious crepes before heading home. Luke invited Alexandre for a sleepover, and Gabe made homemade linguini with salmon, peas, and pesto—maybe his best yet.
The weather took a dramatic turn, with powerful winds rattling posts and windows, making outdoor ventures precarious. Yet, the skies cleared, revealing towering waves crashing against the Rocher de la Vierge and spilling over the walls at Côtes des Basques— quite the sight. Since the ocean was so gnarly, Luke had his Sauvetage Cotier at the hangar near the gare.
During Charlie's Monday basketball practice, I found myself conversing with Juliette and Ella, attempting to navigate French with varying degrees of success. Ella mentioned a language school in Bayonne called Jakinola. After a quick Google search and an email inquiry, I found myself spontaneously joining an advanced beginner class. Despite trying to understand Spanish-accented French, I enjoyed the experience. From discussing sleep preferences to practicing the imperative, the class definitely boosted my language skills. Recognizing my need to break through a language plateau, I will continue the classes after the winter break.
Gabe's follow-up appointment with Dr. Muriel Markov brought fantastic news—his heart looks normal, and most of his medications are unnecessary! It is a relief to hear such positive updates. Game changer!
Wednesdays, oh Wednesdays—they always throw me for a loop, feeling more like Saturdays in disguise. With Charlie off from school and Luke's short stint in class from 9 to 11 am, the day is open for adventure. Epic doesn't even begin to cover today! 20 degrees Celsius. The waves waist to chest high with the water temperature a refreshing 13 degrees Celsius. Gabe declared, "Suit up, we're going surfing!" And just like that, the four of us are in our wetsuits, boards in hand, descending the stairs to the Côtes des Basques. There's something indescribably magical about the four of us doing this together, each of us buzzing with excitement. No arm-twisting or cajoling needed—everyone is on board. Now, that's a rarity in itself. For two hours, Charlie, with a grin stretching from ear to ear, catching rides in the mousse. Luke, paddling around with Emile. As for Gabe and me? Well, let's just say we're downright stoked, living life to the fullest. Today, is Saint Valentine's Day. What better way to spread the love than with moments like these?
Charlie had his weekly session with Florence before heading to basketball practice. I met up with Marine and Juliette, finding ourselves back at the cozy little café. Our gathering grew as two more women, Ella and Marie-Laure, joined us. The conversation went from topic to topic with lightning speed. Despite the challenge of keeping up, I did my best to follow along. As it turns out, Marie-Laure lived in Boston and is fluent in English. From basketball games to raising teenagers, and even talking about the crazy political landscape, our conversation went between French and English. Sitting around that table with these women was great. And to top it all off, they invited me to join them in a Mom's night out, sans les enfants. Mais oui, c'est génial.
To conclude our Valentines Day, we met up with Bruno and Emile for an evening of bowling and dinner in Bayonne. It was the perfect way to wrap up the week. Tomorrow, we're heading to Val Thorens for a week of skiing. For me, this is a lifelong dream coming true—I've always wanted to ski in the Alps.
For those of you who are still reading along, don't hesitate to drop a comment every now and then. Your input adds to this keepsake and makes the reading experience even more enjoyable for all of us. :)
