September News

Ahh September – I love this time of year! It makes me think about going back to school and fills me with the promise of new beginnings.

The French also view September as a fresh start. The holidays are finished, adults return to work, children go back to school, and everyone is refreshed after their summer break. They even have a word for this event, it’s called la rentrée which simply means “the return.” It’s a time when the French set goals and plan for the things they want to accomplish in the coming year – just like the New Year’s resolutions they make in January.

My Plans
As I start to plan and think about what I would like to achieve this year, I first have to look back at last year and thank all of you who have supported and encouraged me. Thank you for your comments and thank you for reading my blog and buying my books. I really am touched by your kindness.

So what are my plans for this coming year? Well, I’m thinking about writing my next book about women in French history. You’ll probably be reading some of the stories on my blog – along with other things, of course. I hope that you’ll enjoy them as much as I enjoy writing them.

Back to School
I often describe myself as a perpetual student. Throughout my life, when autumn rolls around, I start looking for some kind of course to take. These days, I’m pretty busy with my writing, but I still manage to squeeze in a few French and Italian lessons to keep from losing what I’ve worked so hard to learn. If you are thinking about learning a language, or just want to keep up with a language you’ve already learned, here are 2 fantastic language teachers you might want to consider:

French
When Ida from eFrench café blows her “magic French dust” on you, you’ll be speaking like a native in no time. She gives lessons in person or on Skype, and her approach is laid-back and friendly. If you’re in Nice you can join her weekly Meet-up sessions. And for those of you who aren’t in Nice, she has many other options on her website: efrenchcafe.com.

Italian
Roberta is a native of Florence and gives lessons in person or on Skype. I’ve had the pleasure of working with her both ways and she is always patient and encouraging (even when I don’t do my homework).  Visit her website.

Art
To keep you inspired while studying, hang one of Sarah’s beautiful photo collages over your desk. Have a look at her website to see her many atmospheric creations.

Grape Stomping
Not quite ready to get back into the daily routine? How about a trip to Provence to stomp around in a barrel of grapes? You would be helping the folks at Les Pastras make their wine and having a great time. The grape stomping season lasts the entire month of September. Grape Stomping at Les Pastras

Books
And of course, if you are looking for something to read, you could have a look at my two books. If you’ve read them and enjoyed them, a review on Amazon.com would be very much appreciated.
French Holidays & Traditions
Curious Histories of Nice, France

What about you? Does September make you want to start new projects? If so, here’s wishing you the best of luck with your plans.

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Margo Lestz

Margo has authored seven books and writes mostly about France and England. She has a BA in Liberal Studies with International Emphasis and enjoys travel, languages, history, writing, and experiencing other cultures.

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