I really, really LOVE that "Junior Member" label!

[bobnelsonfrance]

End of July I will formally become a Senior Citizen. Sixty. Jeeeeeezzzzzzz!

I was born in the US, came to Europe when I left the Army in '71... and stayed. I picked up French citizenship in '82, when I learned that I could keep the American.

Although "Freedom fries" are French again, French-American has been a tough combination these last fews years. If you want to talk politics, French or American, I've got a blog up at http://bobnelsoncalais.blogspot.com/.

My first contact with LRK was BEEK, maybe twenty years ago, followed by everything else that was already published. Since then, all her other books have progressively joined my shelves.

My overall favorite is probably Folly -- my son says that is because I can identify with middle-aged neuroses.

I'm worried about Russell, who I fear is in danger of becoming Superwoman. My favorite bits of her are when she is wondering if she is Jewish, whether she is wasting scholarly time on her investigations (or vice versa), ...

And, of course, I'm glad to see a new Forum. ;)

[vicki]

Welcome, Bob--you have some unique life experiences that are sure to add a lot to the mix here! This has been, diplomatically speaking, a difficult time for the U.S. in many parts of the world, although France seems to be probably our most difficult spot in Europe. It must be strange for you, living there as an expatriate American during the events of the past few years.

Senior citizen? I think not. Sixty is the new forty, hadn't you heard? :-)

I think anyone with a few neuroses <raises hand> can identify with Rae in Folly. I like Rae and I like quirky folks in general--the world would be a mighty bland place without us.


I'm worried about Russell, who I fear is in danger of becoming Superwoman. My favorite bits of her are when she is wondering if she is Jewish, whether she is wasting scholarly time on her investigations (or vice versa), ...


I like that she has these areas of uncertainty, too. I think those help keep her moored among us regular humans, brilliant and capable though she may be.

I look forward to reading your blog and getting your perspective on things.