Evacuating Kabul: French Ambassador Narrowly Escapes, Fears Future

French Ambassador Evacuating Kabul

Since last month’s calamitous evacuation from Kabul, I’ve wondered what happened to the French journalists, NGOs, citizens, members of the military, and diplomatic corps that were stationed there. This week I came across an eye-opening interview with the French ambassador to Afghanistan, David Martinon, printed in Le Monde. Rather than…

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Pandemic News from France: Setbacks, Incentives, Skeptics, and Celebrations

July 14 Fireworks

As pre-pandemic activities slowly return, I’m beginning to think about when I might travel again to France. However, the pace of life is busier than ever. Last week, we hosted a graduation party for our daughters. At the end of next month, they will be heading off to different colleges.…

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Mila, French Teen Who’s Life was Destroyed by Social Media

Yesterday Torture

As a mother of 3 young adults who grew up with social media, this story provides the kind of anecdote that reinforces my worries about online forums. Since January of 2020, a French teen named Mila has received daily threats against her life as well as thousands of threats of…

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April Potpourri: Sisters, States, Swindles, Satire, and More

April in Paris 1999

There are so many cool and interesting things happening in the world! Each month I look forward to sharing the most fun and informative news items that I’ve come across. Here are my picks for April 2021. In many cases, I provide a link that you can follow to the…

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R.I.P. Louis XIV, Long Live Louis 14?

Louis XIV

Last month, my favorite Paris museum revealed that it is reducing its use of Roman numerals on exhibit plaques. The Musée Carnavalet, housed in a stunning Renaissance-period mansion, offers visitors the fascinating history of Paris for free. Its doors have been closed for the last 4 years—first for remodeling and…

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Oscars 2021, 5 Acclaimed Films from the Francophone World

The Man Who Sold His Skin

One of the things I like best about the Academy Awards has nothing to do with discovering which blockbuster will win Best Picture. I find the actual award ceremony, where glamorous celebrities parade to center stage to deliver their well-rehearsed speeches, only mildly entertaining. Rather, the thing I appreciate most…

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