Last month, I took my Michigan family to France for two weeks to attend a wedding in my family. It was such a fulfilling trip, but it went by way too fast — of course, I always feel like that. But I came back with a lot of great ideas for Aux Petits Soins, as well as some new books, music and toys. (Some of the things I brought back will be for sale — ask me about them if you’re interested.)
It was an emotional experience being able to introduce my sons to the city I was born in. I know they won’t remember this trip, but being immersed in the French language for two straight weeks and watching their little eyes light up again and again seeing these historical cultural icons — the Eiffel Tower, the Paris Opera, Notre Dame, the Louvre — I know something much deeper than memory was sinking in. They were absorbing my culture.
It’s always so nourishing being able to spend that much time with my extended family. I don’t get to see them often enough, but what person living halfway around the world from her parents and sisters wouldn’t say that? Their unconditional love and support is the reason why I know I can live anywhere in the world.
And that’s my goal with Aux Petits Soins — to be able to give all the students “cultural passports” to another country where they’ll feel confident of their own success, knowing they have a strong support system back here in Lansing.