In the Merde

Last week I returned from my summer vacation in Martha's Vineyard. In preparation for the almost 4 hour drive, 45 minute ferry ride and the endless hours relaxing on the beach I purchased Stephan Clarke's "A Year in the Merde". I intended to purchase this book when it was first published back in 2005 but I never actually got around to it.

Turns out that this book was so unbelievable funny, witty and insightful into the differences between American and French cultures I found it hard to put it down. I even caught myself laughing out loud during certain parts. Three days into my trip I had finished my book and was left with nothing to read during my lazy beach days.

A friend bought me the sequel "In the Merde for Love" and it too is riddled with laughs and insights similar to the first. I just hope that by reading Stephan Clarke's novel I'm able to avoid some of the blunders that Paul Wess faces during his first year in the merde.

Priceless

Airfare from JFK-CDG - $706
Flight Change Fee - $75
Excess Baggage Fee - $30
Living in Paris for 7 months - PRICELESS

One Step Closer

I've officially tendered resigned today. I've known for some time that I would be moving to Paris this fall but it feels that much more of a reality now that I've let the big guy (she's actually a woman) know that I won't be here in September. I wasn't ready to announce my departure for at least a couple more weeks but circumstance forced me to move things up a little bit. One can say that I had somewhat of an ethical dilemma.

While I know in my heart that this is the right move for me as a person I feel that professionally I'm making the wrong decision. At the end of the day though what matters most is my happiness and considering my current situation I have the luxury to be able to do that. I do not want to look back on my life in 10, 15, or 20 years and have any regrets.