Hello to Greenwood and Westminster family! We feel privileged to write this blog and tell you about our experiences from the land of fine wine and cheese. We're really enjoying our time here, as Austin is learning French quickly and Alicia's enjoying her time in the French schools.

Wish there were enough space to tell you about all of the things that have happened to us here like finding new friends, a new church, or trying escargot, but we'll limit it to the most French thing of all, breaks.

Breaks are serious business here because meals are serious business. There is something quite nice about taking the time to spend your meals with people you love instead of punching out that last report, grading that last paper, or sending that last email. Instead, the French tend to go to the nearest bakery or nearest cafe, likely smoke a cigarette and share a meal with friends. Here are a few examples:

Austin has no classes between the hours over lunchtime to make sure all have a chance to break for lunch despite being a full-time student. It makes for some long days with work as well, but the meals are lovely.

Alicia had the chance to participate in one of the customary French strikes or protests put on by the educator's union. It is now a time-honored tradition to do so. She wore a shirt emblazoned with the phrase: "prof en colere" or angry professor. They protested up and down the streets of Rouen (our town) all morning until lunch, of course, because nothing could stop the French lunch break. They proceeded to go on lunch break in the middle of their protests.

There's definitely the argument that they could have accomplished a little more had they protested over lunch, but if we're honest, the results would be the same. The truth is that the time we spend with the people we love is more important than the extra little work we have to do.

With Jesus, isn't it the same? Meditation on Him and His Word for 5 minutes are worth way more that 5 more minutes scrolling through the latest political post on Facebook by your crazy uncle or the latest score in March Madness. Instead, I encourage you to spend it looking at someone else, talking to a friend, or reading a Psalm.

We miss you all so much and pray for you all even now! A Bientot!