Long arm across the pond.

Last month we had a guest in our home from France. Romane is a senior in high school from a small town in southern France; we agreed to having her because we thought she would add a nice balance to our family for the two weeks she was in the U.S. I am not sure how she could have possibly added "balance" to our home as we have 5 females and moi. (About the only French I know by the way.)

When she arrived she was tired from the trip. With more than 20 students, accompanied by 2 chaperons, we were not sure how we were going to do with this arrangement. Why? Well we were under the impression she was fairly well versed in English; she knew many words, but communication in the beginning was not easy. We did a lot of sign language and pointing---we learned to communicate and it was really interesting to see it develop.

While she was in the U.S. , and specifically Chicago, she saw more in 13 days than the average Chicagoan has seen in 13 years. She went to restaurants, ballgames, and landmarks that make Chicago the worldwide destination it has become---living up to Chicago's reputation, the weather stunk while she was here. Figures.

We learned a lot about Romane while she was with us; we learned of her family, her boyfriend, her culture. It was not that different from ours, but in many ways it was a million miles from the life our kids live. In some ways better and in other ways the opposite. One thing I will say, she did not want to leave.
She said this more than one time, "I do not want to go back;" I said, "Sure you do...you have family, friends and your boyfriend waiting for you at home."

For a while I was concerned she was serious.

Life has gotten back to normal in our home; we now have more of the arguing back between the girls---it was fairly tame when she was here---but you can be assured it's in solid form and we are not going out as often. Although it was fun.

Romane has asked us to visit her family, and whereas I think that's a great idea, I suggested next time she is in the neighborhood to stop by. I don't see us going to France anytime soon. Although our oldest daughter at home will be leaving for Rwanda next month. Yes, that Rwanda. More on that in a future "Snap. Shot."

The photo above was taken of Romane and 2 of her friends; I don't know their names---but I know they were very nice and extremely well versed in French. By the way, Romane is the one on the right---you might notice she does not have a pierced tongue. She does however have a piercing where a necklace would usually lie. However, there is one thing missing---there is no chain. It's under her skin...ouch. We would like to see Romane again---I suspect the next time will be in a photo she will send to us.

Thanks for stopping by.