Zoe's Rentry to Marin

As we all know kids are somehow resilient and quickly immerse themselves into the lives of new and old friends. The first two months of returning to the bay area were challenging and full of tears for all of us and even though she is resilient and flexible, Zoe was also sad (and still is at times). Life however goes on and with the rhythm of school and activities she seems to have acclimated again fairly quickly.

9th Birthday.

Loving to travel Zoe picked for her 9th birthday party a slumber party at the Embassy Suites. With a waterfall, popcorn machine, and indoor pool she thought she went to heaven and was celebrating at a five star hotel (which of course we reinforced).

Coloma- The Gold Country

Returning to the Lycee (French School) and entering 4th grade Zoe is learning both French and English. Gratefully we see her English kicking in and her spelling in excelling as she memorizes new words weekly. This year the curriculum focuses on California history. Starting with the gold rush the 4th grade classes were fortunate to be able to go to Coloma - the historical gold rush country to learn all about it for 3 days. Her first two night sleepover!

Coming back from the trip she announced we should move to Coloma. She loved it and it was so beautiful! (which it is in the fall with the orange and yellow leaves falling). A few days with a large group of friends was what she needed to solidify relationships and make new friends.

Her love of Roman and Greek history still stays but has now expanded to her interest in California history and all that entails.

End of the Year Performances

As in most villages, towns, and cities the end of the year is full of kids performances. Our small village in the south of France is no different.

For the third year Zoe has performed in Madame Lily Ann's Choreagraphe Presence spectacle. This year an entire show has been transformed from the story of the "Little Match Girl." Madame Lily Ann, a past Paris Prima Ballerina with the Paris Ballet is a master at choreography and putting together a show worth seeing. Parents don't just come and watch stupified their kids doa single dance, but an entire ballet is put on with elaborate costumes and terrific dancing. Her perfectionism does come at a price as Madame Lily Ann is strict and all about the dancing not much about self-esteem.

To our happiness, Zoe-Pascale has learned to handle Madame and not take her tirades too personally and enjoy the lessons, her dancing friends, the rehersals and the performance.

Zoe's Personal Fashion Show

Check out the Photo Gallery at  http://timeoffinfrance.squarespace.com/time-off-in-france-photos/                for Zoe and her friend, Priscilla's personal fashion show using their creativity and Zoe's wardrobe!

Friends, Halloween, Chorale

Halloween is just starting to be celebrated in France. One of Zoe's friends mom wanted to do a party. Age 8 is the age of witches, mummies and devils. 

Anton, Martin, Luca, Cameron, Martin's Mom, Zoe-Pascale

Priscilla, Zoe's new friends

  All the Kids in the Canards de Chantons (Chorale)

Eight Years Old

Eight Years Old is such a great age. Expansive, excited, engaged...

Back at madame Lillian's for dance, she is continuing with Classique two days a week. Karate Wednesday afternoon moving onto her orange belt and she has joined Chorale for the winter concerts, singing in 3 languages. Friends are flowing, school is good, life is wonderful.. Eight is a great age!!!!!

Zoe and Rose playing dressup during lunch (a great break from school)

Love the saddle shoes...

  Wearing my homemade shawl!!!