Cooking Techniques: The fabulous fabric stores that exceed my dreams are matched only by the variety of foods available on the shelves in grocery stores. I quickly discovered the need for an American-sized refrigerator and freezer—my one splurge in my new home. In my case, learning to live in a new country started with the basics—getting food. I was excited when I could walk to Super U, the local supermarket about three-quarters of a mile away, and negotiate the purchase of groceries on my own. When I shared my enthusiasm with my family for having explored the store, figured out

From somewhere in the distant past, I remember an adage about how it takes a heap of living to make a house a home. I did some sleuthing on the internet and found a 60-year-old song by Walter Brennan with that title. I don’t remember the song, but the theme repeated itself ad nauseum in my head during the weeks I’ve spent turning my modest townhouse in Castelnau-le-Lez into a home. When I moved from California, I left my furniture behind. Except for a few items—wedding gifts, some special dishes, clothes, and souvenirs, I started over. In retrospect, that was

American Customer Service Most of what I’ve discovered living in France has been positive. First of all, the excellent food cannot be praised enough, both in its flavor and, even more impressive, in its artistic presentation. Eating seasonally, eating what is produced locally whenever possible, and eating with health in mind is de rigueur. A second big plus in France is the presence of affordable and accessible healthcare, even for an immigrant like me. When I’ve needed them, the doctors have been responsive, knowledgeable, articulate, and genuinely concerned about my health. I also appreciate the priority given to family. Frequent