Christmas time is here!

I'm so glad that it doesn't get too terribly cold in Normandie. We're close to the sea and so temperatures rarely get below 40F, which isn't terribly cold compared to Kentucky and Kansas winters. On Saturday I went to the Christmas Market with Emilie and Courtney. It's so, so cute. I will be taking pictures of it soon. Each little booth is designed to look like a chalet. I sampled hot spiced wine, which was delicious and comforting. Yum, yum, yum. I looked at some recipes online and it doesn't seem to be too difficult to make, so I suggest you all give it a shot! There were pralines, chestnuts roasting on open fires, Belgian waffles, crepes, tartiflette (what people in the mountains eat to get fat for the winter, so it's gotta be good, right?), candied apples... It was Heaven. The booths with the gifts were a little pricey but I might see if I can pick up a gift or two for friends.

Emilie suggested going to Paris with me the weekend I have to go back home so that she can help me with my luggage--how sweet is that? She's so adorable. I think her mother will come, too, because her mother hasn't ever really been to Paris. I didn't know it was possible for French people to go that long without ever really seeing Paris--it's only two hours by car or train! I will be glad to have her along, of course. She sounds so sweet. I am also very excited to see Paris at Christmas time-- ice skating in front of the Hotel de Ville, a giant Christmas tree outside of Notre Dame... it will be gorgeous. Ice-skating in Caen begins December 13. I can't wait!