Bonne Année
Happy New Year
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I hope everyone is weathering the winter well, wherever you may be. Here are pictures from the snowiest of days...
http://prettyparispicture.blogspot.com/2009/01/with-everything-dusted-in-white-winter.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

There is excitement in the air over Obama's presidency, even over here an ocean away.

French Perception of Obama’s Presidency
In electing Barack Obama, Americans have drastically changed the French opinion of them as a whole. With stars in their eyes, everyone can’t help but feel inspired by Obama’s candor. While his chessboard moves are anxiously awaited, there is unease amongst some.

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art60537.asp
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I've been opting to stay inside cooking up stews and baking. Anything to stay warm! Read about my favorite cookbook here:

Once Upon a Tart

As an alternative to hibernating the winter months, I suggest warming the oven to bake a quiche or boiling up a hearty pot of soup. Here is a recipe for a Ratatouille Tart adapted from Once Upon a Tart, the cookbook I reach for when making soups, quiches, salads, dressings, and sweets.

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art60148.asp
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And no, I don't have my French driver's license yet, but please don't ask.

The Privilege of Driving in France

In France driving is considered a luxury. Neither coming nor going, I have resigned to going through the whole arduous process of obtaining a French permit. While the rules aren't dramatically different, the aggravations seem to be never ending.

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art11221.asp
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Please visit the site and tell your friends.

Merci!

Melissa Demiguel, French Culture Editor
http://frenchculture.bellaonline.com