1. This picture, even though it’s translated in several languages, is still an enigma to Ella. The signs are everywhere in Paris. Since I never answered when she asked me what it is, she’s invented her own explanation. “There’s the funny hotdog man again,” she says, pointing, when we walk past. Each time I hope no one within earshot speaks English.
2. As I stood at the counter of a cafe to drink an espresso, the barwoman called Ella “poupée.” I know this means doll, but when I returned home I looked it up, to see if it’s a common endearment. My dictionary told me that the English translation is “toots.” I pity the poor French tourist in America, thinking he’s so au courant, “toots”-ing American children.
3. Ella has a French-French dictionary for beginners, a reference we’re told all young French children use. There are several maps at the end, including one of the United States, with pictures to help new readers. Imagine my surprise when I saw the White House placed in the upper left, in the state right above Oregon. Who knew our capital had moved to the Pacific Northwest?
4. Ella enjoys ordering herself, and every time, after she asks for a baguette or sandwich or chevre, the merchant responds, in French, “That’s all?” “Ca suffit,” Ella says (that’s enough), prompting a laugh. “Why do they keep laughing at me?” Ella asked me today. I told her ça suffit might sound funny coming from a kid. Maybe it’s what grown-ups say to kids who drive them crazy. “Arrete,” I can imagine them saying. “Stop. Ca suffit! Cut it out!”
Sharon: I am enjoying your Paris blogs so much! “Je suis ton ami” has me giggling out loud. You will let us know when Ella finds out! Probably on the first day of school, when some bratty boy laughs that she doesnt know and clues her in. We are really not a civilized country, are we? our collective head is buried in the remnants of our Puritan past. And those of us who wish to escape said past are nor having an easy time of it. Tricia
Thanks, Tricia! I am so enjoying your comments.
Yes, who knew I would come here and discover my long-lost puritanism?
To the sharonharrigan.net administrator, You always provide in-depth analysis and understanding.
To the sharonharrigan.net administrator, Your posts are always well-written and easy to understand.
To the sharonharrigan.net administrator, Your posts are always well structured and easy to follow.
Hello sharonharrigan.net admin, You always provide helpful information.
Dear sharonharrigan.net admin, Excellent work!
Dear sharonharrigan.net admin, Your posts are always well received by the community.
Hello sharonharrigan.net webmaster, Your posts are always informative and well-explained.