Il fait beau. That’s one of the first expressions I, and probably you, learned in French. Basically, the weather is beautiful. And it is exceptionally beautiful today, which is why the sales lady looked at me funny when I asked her if they sold umbrellas. Aujourd’hui? She asked. (Today?) We laughed. No, not for today — just to prepare for another day like last Sunday.

We’ve continued to study the Subjonctif mood this week, and today we delved into the Conditionnel mood/tense. These past two days have involved listening exercises – no reading – and they prove more difficult for me. Everyone else in the class has been in Paris longer, or has been here before, so they understand well and converse with ease. Pas moi! Not me! But that’s why I’m here. To learn. And the professeur never makes anyone feel bad, ever. She insists it just takes time. « Peu à peu, » she says. Little by little.

Even though my classmates converse easily, their French pronunciation makes it so tricky for me. I’ve only ever listened to perfectly-spoken French, so comprehending French with an Iranian, Spanish, Turkish, or Swedish accent is oh-la-la! pour moi. It’s like translating TWICE.

When we moved into reading text, and answering questions, I was in my element. The teacher started calling me « le professeur » at one point, which she does is a fun way every now and then any time a student demonstrates complete understanding or makes intelligent observations. I had a turn at it today, I guess, which was fun. I expect a mix of ups and downs like this as I continue to push myself. I’ve also learned that it’s best for me to work ahead at night because I am otherwise slowed down as I translate all the oral and written instructions while everyone else has started to work on the actual exercise! This may seem obvious, but I’ve been out of school for a long time.

At the end of class, today, the professeur told my friend Irene that I spoke French beautifully. If not for the mask, they might have seen some color in my cheeks. But also pride in my French heart. Having a professeur at Alliance Française tell you that you speak French beautifully is a pretty high compliment. I thanked her and she confirmed it — no, c’est vrai, she added. It’s true. I floated to the boulangerie where I couldn’t understand the sales girl — and returned to earth.

Isn’t it funny how I can speak « beautifully, » and not know what I’m saying! Lol! I kid. But you know what I mean. It’s amusing and quite the opposite of my classmates. I just need everyone to slow down and enunciate, but that’s not going to happen, so I need to catch up.

Today was a good day – with a matching the blue sky – I’ll take it!

P.S. I had my first pain aux raisin today. Exquisite! Everything here tastes amazing.

P.S.S. If you follow me in Instagram (@LisaHinParis) I mentioned Gertrude Stein’s apartment. I walked by today. Hallowed ground. I’ll post a photo.