Thursday, March 31, 2011

First Impressions

This is the first time I have been out of the country other than going to Mexico (does that really count?). I am excited and nervous to be able to experience a different culture and learn what it’s like to live in a different country. I will be honest and say that more than once this first week Jeff and I have looked at each other and asked ourselves if we're out of our minds and wondered if we're going to survive this. Of course we will, but anxiety has been running high.


Before coming to Paris I was warned by many that if you don’t speak the language you will have a very difficult time getting around and the people will give you a hard time and be more on the rude side. While we have certainly experienced some of this, I must say that I have also experienced lovely people here in France. For instance, the ladies at the British Airways counter at the Paris airport were very helpful when they lost our stroller and car seat (they gave us loners to be picked up when our items were delivered); or the Pizza man who delivered our pizza gave us free Coke as a "gift" when he delivered our pizza, probably because he heard about our struggles just to order a pizza for delivery; or the lady at the market who gave Jeff a free baguette all because he said it smelled good and he tried his best to communicate with her in french the night before; or the lady that gave up her seat on the bus so that Mya could sit down. I was very grateful for these acts of kindness! I don’t speak their language but I know we can communicate with a smile…(merci!).


5 comments:

Linda Sumner Urza said...

So fun to hear about your experiences. The kids look like they are having a wonderful time, now I hope Mom and Dad can catch up !

melissa said...

I miss you like crazy and am so proud of you for blogging, lets skype soon PLEASE!!!!!

xoxo, melissa and lucy

Anonymous said...

Oh christa! I can't believe I am the last to find out about you moving to Paris! What an adventure! And if anyone can make it work it is you and jeff! I miss you like crazy ANd I know this experience will change your lives! What a blessing for you and your kids! Miss you so much! Xoxo ps so glad we can read it in your blog!

Bec said...

Je`taime Harbachs!!!
XXXXX

LehiLeavitts said...

I had no idea you were in France. What an exciting adventure. We just had ward temple night and I was thinking back to the good old days in Vegas- those were some good times. Good luck getting all situated. We think about you guys and hope all is well.