When I studied French in college, reading classics like Les Misérables and Candide felt more like an academic obligation than a cultural adventure. At the time, I didn’t realize how profoundly these books would shape my understanding of French culture, humor, and even the French way of seeing the ...
Everyday France
Five Women Who Shaped France’s Enduring Culture
A Reflection for International Women’s Day
France’s traditions, values, and unmistakable sense of style didn’t simply appear overnight. They were shaped over centuries—by bold thinkers, creative spirits, and determined women who dared to leave their mark on history.
From convents and ...
How My Name Sparked My Love for France
My last name, Bergeron, has deep roots in France. It comes from the Old French word berger, meaning “shepherd,” and over time it came to mean “the son of the shepherd.” A name that traveled from the quiet French countryside to bustling towns—and eventually all the way across the Atlantic with my ...
How to Find the Best Brocantes and Vide-Greniers
There's something truly magical about the Parisian tradition of brocantes and vide-greniers – those enchanting second-hand markets where elegant vintage treasures await discovery. Imagine a delicate Limoges porcelain dish gracing your table, an ashtray from the legendary Ritz Paris as a ...
A Tribute to Catharine Hamilton: A Chicago Philanthropist With a Deep Connection to Versailles
You may be aware of the American Friends of Versailles—the extraordinary organization that helps preserve one of France’s most iconic landmarks—but are you aware of its deep connections to Chicago?
Today, I share this post in tribute to Catharine Cline Hamilton, the remarkable Chicago ...
France’s Enduring Love Affair with Protest
Ah, France – the land of croissants, Eiffel Tower selfies, and... barricades in the streets? If you've ever tuned into the news and seen Parisians clashing with police over everything from pension reforms to fuel taxes, you might wonder: why do the French seem to protest so much?
It's not just a ...
