when i was living in paris before, i was working freelance for various companies. my jobs would typically last from 3-8 weeks. during every job i had, there was always a reason for the champagne to come out – whether it be a birthday, an anniversary of the company, whatever excuse. i loved it.
tonight there was a school meeting for all the new parents, hosted by the parent association which started with champagne. we’ve been with the school for a week and a half and i have to say: “what took them so long!”
the meeting was to present all the activities organized by the parents FOR the parents. i have to say that they have really done everything right. this school is made up of an interesting group of people who are predominantly international – whether foreigners living here or french returning from abroad. they all appreciate that time in paris is special. they have organized the parent activities which creates a wonderful and very social community facilitating meeting others and taking advantage of the city and region. they also help newcomers adjust and maneuver the setup process. there are multiple conversation groups for people to practice their french and english (45 mins of each), garden tours, tours with historians or people knowledgeable of whatever specialty, hikes outside of paris, WINE TASTING, WINE trip to Bordeaux, COOKING classes, pot lucks, visits and demonstrations at specialty shops (like the most favorite MACAROON bakery). with every “club” or event that was presented, i just kept thinking “oh my god, this is going to be soooo much fun!”. every parent in the group was smiling broadly. then, the website is very well done and a fabulous resource. along with all the other types of school information, there are places to get help, ask questions, get advice. my favorite is a page called: “carnet d’addresses” which is written by individual parents listing their favorite places to go or eat in paris, or things to do with kids, etc.
after the meeting, we retired to another room for wine and “canapes”. i have to admit, these were the best finger food at any school event i have ever attended. but i’m sure there will be even better ones this year! i am thrilled and we are so lucky.
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I'm happy for you; it seems this makes up for the fact that you are a "type." I know that was very disappointing, but it seems that there are enough of "you" to have a wonderful time. When our school parent groups propose get-togethers and social events, I tend to mumble under my breath about the copious free time other people seem to have. Well, you, in Paris have all that time and are there for this very purpose. Of that incredible blessing, I see that you are aware. Yea!!
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Wow! Just wow. As passionate and active as the parents' groups were at my son's school -- never were they so organized and like this.
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