petite anglaise

July 7, 2005

anniversary

Filed under: misc — petiteanglaiseparis @ 6:00 am

Petite anglaise began blogging on 7 July 2004.

Looking at those first posts, which quite frankly make me cringe when I re-read them now, I realise things have come a long way since then. The blog has evolved, organically, without any sort of master plan, and I have undoubtedly evolved with it.

Let me take this opportunity to thank you all for reading, blogrolling, commenting, emailing and nominating petite anglaise for awards in the past year. It means a great deal: without you, I am nothing.

I have no idea if petite will make it to a second blogiversary, but in honour of today, I wonder if you might consider leaving a comment in the box below and telling me one thing about yourself that not many people know.

I promise I won’t tell anyone.

175 Comments

  1. hi petite-

    i’ve been lurking on your blog for a while now, can’t even remember how i came upon it in the first place… but, something about your writing, and your life keeps me coming back, and like everyone else that reads, i now feel like i know you.

    so, in honor of your anniversary, i’ve come out of the shadows to tell you one thing very few people know: if my ex-husband wanted to reconcile, i’d go back to him in a heartbeat. shhhh….

    -clm.

    Comment by clm — July 7, 2005 @ 6:33 am

  2. Happy anniversary. If you really want something that not many people know (and I swear I’m not making this up), I was raped by a Berber camel driver in the Sahara on Christmas day. This is possibly the only thing that makes me in any way unique or interesting, which goes to show that every cloud has a silver lining. Actually, it doesn’t really make me interesting, but it certainly made my trip to Morocco interesting.

    Comment by Timorous Beastie — July 7, 2005 @ 7:07 am

  3. I spend enormous amounts of time reading blogs when I really should be doing a billion other things. People I know would definitely be surprised by that. I love your blog, you are a fantastic writer. I enjoy hearing abotu your life in France, I spent one year in Lyon and wished for more- happy anniversary.

    Comment by Amy — July 7, 2005 @ 7:55 am

  4. I hope you make it to your second blogiversary (a new word that will undoubtedly end up in the dictionary)… reading this in the morning makes my day start off so much better. :)

    And there are far too many things that not many people know—but for now, only two people who know me in life know that I blog.. and they are sworn to secrecy.

    Comment by theinsider — July 7, 2005 @ 8:12 am

  5. Joyeux anniversaire, Petite Anglaise.

    Yes, that blogging thing, I suppose.
    Or the fact that up until a few years ago, I could do the splits without warming up? Not enough people are/were aware of this.

    Comment by Anne — July 7, 2005 @ 8:28 am

  6. I’ve stumbled upon your blog, and as a lover of many french things and the beautiful language, I love reading your stories. You have a wonderful style.

    As for things most people don’t know about me…I met the love of my life online almost 10 years ago. Talked to him throughout many relationships that ultimately failed. Only recently have we finally been able to be together.

    Comment by Laura Wolf — July 7, 2005 @ 8:40 am

  7. Happy Anniversary, petite. Your blog has become a part of my day.

    Something few people know about me? I never got over (and never will get over) my second to last boyfriend.

    Comment by christina — July 7, 2005 @ 9:18 am

  8. I never liked to be married (the ceremony and all that stuff also), knowing that I left in last January the mother of my two kids.

    But now that I’m in love with Véronique from the 16th March 2005, I can’t understand why, but my heart never stop to push me to ask her in marriage. I dream about all the thing that I never wanted in the past. I suppose that the combination of two persons change the way to see the life.

    Bon anniversaire Petite Anglaise!

    Comment by Jean François Porchez — July 7, 2005 @ 9:31 am

  9. A lot of people seem to be going for the heartfelt angst-ridden confession, but as I have a very public blog that all my friends and family read, I’ll keep mine banal.

    I like to tweeze ingrown armpit hairs while watching Sex and the City.

    Comment by Hannah — July 7, 2005 @ 9:57 am

  10. What only a few people know : The anger, the violence I’m capable of.

    Comment by stephan — July 7, 2005 @ 10:17 am

  11. I am incredibly uncoordinated. As in, I couldn’t ride a bike until I was nine.

    Yet this didn’t stop me from later working as a waitress.

    (Actually many people know this, but I rarely share such small details online, so I assume this works).

    Happy one year!

    Comment by kim — July 7, 2005 @ 10:18 am

  12. Hi Petite

    I am a new reader too and have found your anecdotes really interesting, so I hope you find it in you to keep blogging on.

    In the spirit of sharing, I have a confession. I am addicted to 49p packets of pork rinds you get at supermarkets. I’d not tried them till a fortnight ago, and now I can’t stop. Sniff.

    Comment by Gab — July 7, 2005 @ 10:19 am

  13. happy aniversary
    something secret
    well i had to hide my joy yesterday when London won the Olympic Bid! My lips are bitten to pieces by all those moments on the metro and the RER when i so wanted to join in the discussion.
    The French are very good at bad loosing!!
    Anyway,i revel in your writing and hope that you continue
    Mary

    Comment by mary — July 7, 2005 @ 10:27 am

  14. Happy blogday! I often wonder as well whether my blog will last another year.

    I’m a very transparent person and don’t have many secrets, but one thing that people around here clearly don’t know about me is that I always wanted London to get the Olympics!

    Comment by céline — July 7, 2005 @ 10:33 am

  15. hi all,

    first to petite, my favourite friend from Paris, congrats’ and best wishes for keep her attached

    second to all readers – i believe-, I couldnt forget and dont think that i could for my life time, my hybrid lover bow_lock as i shared my best moments and felt a state of belongness . here is a dangerous confession! (‘cos i am married to smone else ofcourse)

    Comment by hera — July 7, 2005 @ 10:34 am

  16. Happy Anniversary Petite – and I will join in the chorus who hope this blog will live to see it’s next birthday.

    Hmmmmmmmm something not many ppl know about me…. I had a fling with a beautiful Frenchman on my last trip to Paris……..I was kissing him on the street and opened one eye to “take it all in” and thought “enjoy this Kasey, remember – you smooched a cute boy in the streets of Paris”……
    ;)

    Comment by Kasey — July 7, 2005 @ 10:39 am

  17. Dear Petite,

    Actually I don’t remember how I found you, but I’m glad I did.
    You want to know a segret of mine? Even though I continue to complain about living in chaotic Rome, I’m not sure that I would like returning to my perfect Denmark.

    Happy anniversary!

    Comment by Tina — July 7, 2005 @ 10:42 am

  18. Happy blog-birthday. I love reading what you write, and you are pretty damned good at it.

    Now then, something that few people know about me? Let’s see…

    Nope, nothing springs to mind.

    Oh, wait, I once unintentionally vomited over a former boss. In retrospect I wish I’d done it again.

    Comment by Jim in Rennes — July 7, 2005 @ 10:59 am

  19. I got together with my boyfriend, who I met on the internet, a week after we met. Which was only the second time we met. I’ve been vague on my blog about how long we’ve been together, too many of my friends and family read.

    Comment by the_editter — July 7, 2005 @ 11:07 am

  20. The lost art of keeping a secret… Just for that QOTSA song, I will keep them.

    Petite, When I first met you, you told me that I had been helpful to you when you started blogging. At this time, I was not reading you. I mean, I knew your blog but wasn’t really reading it. The day after, I read your blog entirely and found a real plume.

    And I have to admit that I was proud for the little help I gave to you. Very proud. You cannot imagine the satisfaction of helping a talented person. Someone you believe in. Even if the help is tiny. It is a great feeling, believe me.

    Petite thanks for writing.

    Comment by nathan — July 7, 2005 @ 11:12 am

  21. Hi Petite,

    I am so happy when a new post from you appears in my RSS reader… Keep writing !

    A little secret I’ll share with you : I’m taking my family to Tokyo soon, and it’s not for holidays…

    Comment by manolito — July 7, 2005 @ 11:14 am

  22. Happy Birthday and here’s to many more.

    To share a secret…not many people know how unhappy I was in high school with my social life, the school work was never a problem. In my dreams I was smart AND popular. The reality was harsher, when friends turn nasty you have to fight to hold on to your own identity. The library is a lonely place at lunchtime when you have no where else to go.I am stronger now, with many real friends and life apart from the one I lived in high school.

    Perhaps that is why so few people know my high school angst…I have phyisically moved on as well as emotionally. I keep in touch with none of them, and that is sad.

    Comment by Nicole — July 7, 2005 @ 11:20 am

  23. Happy Birthday Petite! I hope you don’t stop – your posts are so beautifully written.

    Something not many people know about me – I have a paralysing, vomit-inducing fear of slugs.

    Comment by Rachie — July 7, 2005 @ 11:33 am

  24. Happy Blog-birthday, Petite and please carry on! I stumbled across your site some months ago and now it’s one of my daily reads.

    Like you I’ve been out of England for many years – 12 years ago I moved in my twenties from London to a small town in Italy – and so I love reading your views as an English girl abroad.

    Something no one knows? That I’m not the got together happy person everyone thinks I am – quite the opposite in fact.

    Good luck with everything Petite – life, work and your lovely new love affair!!

    Comment by Hazy — July 7, 2005 @ 11:47 am

  25. This little piggy is incurably addicted to your blog.
    Don’t ever stop or he might have to get back to earning a living and doing all the other things you’re distracting him from.

    Comment by Parkin Pig — July 7, 2005 @ 12:00 pm

  26. It sounds rather silly, but here I go: in front of my office there is a little garden and on its corner it has lavender. Every morning, before going inside, I caress one of the lilac flowers and enjoy the smell it leaves on my fingers.

    And: Happy Birthday, please continue! I only started reading you a couple of weeks ago but was forced to attack the archives thanks to your delicious writing!

    Comment by rita dantas — July 7, 2005 @ 12:27 pm

  27. Thanks for all your efforts Petite. Ihave enjoyed thoroughly your writing and have read every entry (i think).

    This is my first ever internet comment!

    My only complete secret is that the only woman I have ever slept with, apart from my wife, was a stunning older french girl I had adored for three years at uni. A white suit at our graduation did the trick! I will always have a soft spot for France.

    Comment by oz — July 7, 2005 @ 12:27 pm

  28. \o/ \o/ \o/

    Something I avoid to confess, usually: I enjoy fish & chips, mushy peas and school pudding, or any other greasy pub lunch much, more than a french gastronomical three course meal. Oh, and English guys, as well :)

    Comment by Mimile — July 7, 2005 @ 12:32 pm

  29. Bon anniversaire !
    Il y a des jours où votre blog m’émeut (quand vous parlez de vous). D’autres où il m’énerve (quand vous parlez du métro parisien). D’autres, enfin, où il me fait rire (Noël chez vos beaux-parents).
    Ce que j’aime surtout, c’est votre style, la finesse de vos analyses psychologiques et votre sincérité. Restez en France et continuez votre blog !
    Bonne chance dans votre nouvelle vie !

    Comment by Silence — July 7, 2005 @ 12:34 pm

  30. When I was eighteen I was an intern at a local radio station. I was persuaded to take part in an ‘Archers’ inspired radio soap, and played the part of the teenage daughter of the central family.

    I was rubbish and was written out (I was leaving anyway, to go to university, and so my character also went off the university, never to return).

    Comment by stressqueen — July 7, 2005 @ 12:36 pm

  31. Hey! Happy Blogday! I’ve nearly hit one year (sometime in August) I can hardly believe it. I really enjoy your blog for it’s almost poetic honesty!!

    As for something that few people know about me…um…I harbour a secret desire to live in Australia.

    Comment by Valkyrie — July 7, 2005 @ 1:05 pm

  32. Happy one year Petite!
    I have become addicted to your blog, it is one of he first windows I open when I turn my pc on. I hope it will never stop and I wish you another year full of new experiences and love.
    One thing few people know about me is that I love reading star gossip on the internet.

    Comment by mélanie — July 7, 2005 @ 1:49 pm

  33. Thanks for your blog. I share the day of my birthday with G.W.Bush, Sylvester Stallone and the Dalai-Lama. But none of them sent a card to wish me a happy birthday yesterday. Maybe I should let them know next year. Actually, not many people sent me a card to wish me a happy birthday. Except my ‘rosbeef’, of course.
    HAPPY ANNIVERSARY PETITEANGLAISE!

    Comment by Animal politique — July 7, 2005 @ 2:00 pm

  34. Happy Blogiversary petite. Here’s to the next twelve months. *raises glass of wine*

    Few people know that some days, when I watch the news, I cry. Today is one of those days. Films have never wrung a tear from me though.

    Comment by suziboo — July 7, 2005 @ 2:15 pm

  35. I’m feeling pretty shaken up by the events in London today too. Not exactly in a celebrating mood…

    Comment by petite — July 7, 2005 @ 2:22 pm

  36. Sometimes I dream of just packing up and going away on my own – not forever – just for a little bit. But I know I would miss my husband and girls so much, so just for 2 weeks or so…It’s not going to happen but it’s a fantasy! Happy anniversary!

    Comment by Kathy — July 7, 2005 @ 2:24 pm

  37. Happy blogiversary Petite!

    Keep going – it is during these wierd times that writing like yours is more important than ever – it all feels pretty surreal here in London at the moment and its is wonderful to read something like this blog – a reminder of real life.

    As for something not many people know, hmmmm, i am half American. This is always amusing when friends indulge in a bit of yank-bashing and i can then wait for a minute before casually mentioning that my mum is American. I watch them then dig a large hole for themselves as they try to rescue the situation.

    Once again happy anniversary Petite – here’s to another great year.

    Comment by Aaron — July 7, 2005 @ 3:11 pm

  38. Congratulations Petite! I have very much enjoyed your blog. I tell other people about the things you do as if you were one of my friends with whom I stay in contant contact. I thank my lovely wife, EasyJetSetter for introducing me to your world.

    Hmmm a secret . . .it’s hard b/c I’m such a blabber-mouth. Maybe this–the first time I met my boyfriend, part of me knew he was The One, although it took me almost 9 months for me to tell him I love him. (He loves me too!!! :-)

    I’m sorry your anniversary is on what is now a sad day for many people. Thoughts of love and prayers to all of you who live in or have family and friends in London.

    Comment by Leslie — July 7, 2005 @ 3:12 pm

  39. Hmmm…sometimes I dream of escaping to a little cabin in the woods, where I can read books, daydream, and be alone, without the responsibilities of being a mom and a breadwinner.

    Comment by Bad Hippie — July 7, 2005 @ 3:13 pm

  40. I rarely comment but visit everyday and wish you continued success in your blog Petite!!

    The only secret thing I can think of about me this morning is that I still sleep with a teddy bear I’ve had since I was two (am now 30). It bothers my husband to no end but I think he’s really just jealous and wants my Poppa bear to himself.

    Comment by Prudie — July 7, 2005 @ 3:13 pm

  41. I won a cherry pie baking contest when I was 14. Now (I’m 62) I use pre-made pie crusts from the refrigerator section of the supermarket and let folks think I’ve made them from scratch. I should be ashamed, but I’m not.

    Very much enjoy your writing

    Very sorry about the troubles in London today.

    Comment by Sheila O — July 7, 2005 @ 3:29 pm

  42. Leslie – I sent a little something to you in the post yesterday by the way – your winnings!

    Comment by petite — July 7, 2005 @ 4:20 pm

  43. I had a nasty shoplifting habit years ago. Gone now, but I still have and use som eof the items. Only I know…

    On a completely separate note– my heart goes out to you today. Living near NYC I know that people are incredible resilient– but it still an indescribably (spelling?) horrible event.

    Comment by Bev — July 7, 2005 @ 4:36 pm

  44. Many happy returns of the blogiversary.

    I can while away a happy hour with one of my good friends, judging the style and quality of the women’s outfits pictured in Hello magazine. And no, we are not kind. She is the only person who knows this about me. Until now.

    London. What to say?

    Comment by Zinnia Cyclamen — July 7, 2005 @ 4:36 pm

  45. Hi Petite and tremendous congratters! Do keep it up and don’t stop: It is your blog that makes me log in every night.

    A thing not many people know about me? I am generally perceived to be very efficient and organized whereas at heart I am terribly lazy. I have developped that efficient and organized mode only because my own laziness frightens me. Loopy, no?

    Comment by Angel — July 7, 2005 @ 4:42 pm

  46. Bon Anniversaire Petite!

    And oh my God, here is the advantage of reading Blog comments. People usually think I’m round the twist when I tell them about my crippling slug phobia. Rachie, want to form a support group?

    But something hardly anyone – actually nobody – knows about me – when I was a child my brother, who had a mental illness, always received the lions share of the attention at home, and one of my best friends who was diabetic, received special treatment at school – I sometimes used to pray that God would give me a serious illness so that I could be treated special as well.

    Comment by Alan — July 7, 2005 @ 4:54 pm

  47. Happy Blogiversary! I, too, am mostly a lurker, but do love reading your entries.

    Something not many people know about me – until I was 18 I took circus classes and to this day I still dream about climbing ropes. But I can’t think of where I could go to find one.
    -Diana

    Comment by Diana — July 7, 2005 @ 4:55 pm

  48. Congratulations on the one year anniversary! I have been a lurker for some time, but wanted to pop my head in to say hello, and add my own plea that you continue to blog for a long time to come. My secret…I have just come through a trauma with my daughter – she is a recovering drug addict. Not only do very few people know that, but no one knows that I am considering writing a book about our struggle, which began when she was 14-15 years old (she is now 23).

    Comment by Sharon — July 7, 2005 @ 5:00 pm

  49. Happy 1st Blogiversary, petite! What I most enjoy about your blog is your conversational writing style, and the knowledge that it is possible to create a life in Paris despite cultural differences, which is my aspiration as well.

    Something people don’t know about me… hmmm, that’s hard as my life tends to be the proverbial open book. OK, here it is: as passionate as I am about the prospects of making Paris my home, I am probably as equally terrified by the idea – and I hate admitting I’m afraid of ANYTHING. (Shhhh…)

    Lisa, Future pseudo-Parisienne

    Comment by Lisa — July 7, 2005 @ 5:04 pm

  50. In honour of your blog anniversary, the least known fact to those who know me:
    I am a psychoanalyst, scuba diver, knitter, blog reader–an unlikely combination.
    Thanks for writing–I have enjoyed and been enriched by reading your blog.

    Comment by Brenda — July 7, 2005 @ 5:32 pm

  51. er excuse me but you’ve been on a meteoric rise ever since that first post… I remember it! so, don’t you dare cringe at those early posts, they’re what got you to here.
    beijinhos and parabens for you blogiversary, sweetie.

    Comment by vit — July 7, 2005 @ 5:34 pm

  52. Happy blog-anniversary Petit!

    This is the first time I comment here but I’ve been reading your sweet pages for a long time now. I simply adore your writting.

    By the way, I hope your family and friends are ok back here in England…

    Comment by Marcia — July 7, 2005 @ 5:38 pm

  53. Well… nobody knows that I’ve been reading your blog almost everyday for a bit less than a year now.

    Oh, and I have a beauty spot on my left testicle, if that is any of interest.

    Hope to comment again next year.

    Gros bisou

    Comment by Uncle Did — July 7, 2005 @ 5:47 pm

  54. Bon anniversaire, PA. Here’s to twelve more months? ;-)

    Ah, and something to share: if French bureaucracy is not a completely infallible beast, then by the end of this year I hope to be PACSé with the man I love. Who, of my family, knows this? Personne.

    ;-)

    Comment by ludivine — July 7, 2005 @ 5:53 pm

  55. I love a glass of steaming hot water right before bed . . .

    bonne anniversaire, petite =)

    Comment by emily — July 7, 2005 @ 5:57 pm

  56. I forgot to congratulate you for the photograph of the child (Tadpole ?. It is lovely !

    And I am sorry about the events in London. Dreadful.

    Comment by Silence — July 7, 2005 @ 6:37 pm

  57. Petite – I only hope that my blog grows as well as yours. It’s like tending a little garden everyday. I look at some of my posts and know that I do put more talent and work into my novel.

    I have lot’s and lot’s of secrets. I keep them very close, they are selacious and dark. I like to keep them that way and so few people know it by my happy-go-lucky attitude.

    In spite of the bombings in Europe, take a moment to congratulate yourself.

    Comment by Lucy — July 7, 2005 @ 6:45 pm

  58. hello, hello. i happened upon you a few months ago. addictive you are.

    people don’t know about my blog much. it’s quite boring. no one reads it. shhh, don’t tell.

    Comment by anna — July 7, 2005 @ 7:09 pm

  59. Sad day, but good wishes for inspired blogging in the years to come.
    Tell you a secret? Of course, Petite, for you, anything you ask, but only for you to know. I’m going to live for ever, be immortal. Whatever happened today, life is too good to leave behind. And if I can’t quite manage to be immortal, well I’ll settle for being immoral instead.

    Comment by fella — July 7, 2005 @ 7:16 pm

  60. I hope you family, friends and colleagues in & around London are all ok. I’m still waiting to hear from a few, so fingers-crossed.

    I’m a fairly open-book, so not many a dark secret in my closet. I’ll come back if I can remember something of note…until then, it’s back to the research project for me!

    Comment by Nicnu — July 7, 2005 @ 7:20 pm

  61. Wanted to wish you a happy blogging anniversaire and to say how much I like and admire your blog…and indeed you.

    London is seriously scary just now – have struggled home after a day of sirens, misinformation and fear. Not to mention bomb scares on trains home…

    Comment by Jan — July 7, 2005 @ 7:22 pm

  62. Seems like a majority of your readers have a touch of the old anxiety disorder–thinking we don’t live up to our percieved image. I’ve stage/production managed over 30 plays and I still have massive anxiety attacks everytime one comes up, despite people repeatedly telling me how good I am. Thanks for sending my winnings, I will let you know when they arrive! Ah, Petite swag, how excited I am for it!

    Comment by Leslie — July 7, 2005 @ 7:25 pm

  63. It’s such a shame that tragic events in London have taken the edge off your first anniversary but don’t let it prevent you enjoying the well-deserved compliments from your readers and – please carry on the excellent work even though you may be just a little bit pre-occupied. . . . .
    As for a secret, well, if you must know, I am waiting in excited anticipation for the next Harry Potter but dare not let on to my family – they’d think I was mad (cos I’m over 60 but never grew up!)

    Comment by Sandy Bootman — July 7, 2005 @ 7:43 pm

  64. No one knows that when I heard about the bombings in London I started to cry uncontrollably. It reminded me of 9/11, and my thoughts go out to everyone today.

    On another note, I enjoy your blog a lot. Thanks!

    Comment by hafpint142 — July 7, 2005 @ 8:02 pm

  65. Congratulations, Petite.

    I hope that anyone you know is safe after the horrific attack in London.

    I was a bass in the New Hampshire All State Chorus when I was a senior in high school.

    Comment by Bob — July 7, 2005 @ 8:20 pm

  66. happy anniversary, you write beautifully. my secret: I think that I will be a terrible, terrible mother. that fear haunts me.

    Comment by lisa — July 7, 2005 @ 8:33 pm

  67. Happy birthday Petite.

    One thing about me: I do the lyrics on the music to that short film I pointed you at the other day…. but what I *say* will remain a secret for a bit longer….

    here’s to another year of petiteanglaise!

    Comment by trine — July 7, 2005 @ 8:37 pm

  68. One thing, huh? In brutal honest truth, when I was a little girl I wanted nothing more that to grow up, get married and have a family. I had no other ambitions in life and to this day, I have no other real goals in my life. While I’m married, I still haven’t had kids and this bothers me a little; a little more than I’d like it to bother me. But, shhh! Don’t tell. ;)

    Comment by yayaempress — July 7, 2005 @ 9:02 pm

  69. Joyeuse blogiversaire Petite… It might seem quite a gulf between between an 18-year-old American student and a 30-something anglaise, but your phenomenal writing jumps the gap. I love reading your entries.

    Secret…hmm… How about this? The sole reason I started taking French (back in 6th grade) was because I had decided that I wanted to move to Montreal.

    Comment by Karen — July 7, 2005 @ 9:06 pm

  70. Petite,

    Félicitations sur la création de ce petit univers . I read often, but post seldomly. I think my ‘secret thing’ is really not as exciting as some others…nonetheless, it’s probably not something people would guess about me at first blush…

    I secretly long to be an artist…of any kind… live an artsy bohemian life where I’d smoke too many cigarettes, drink too much coffee, all while creating until I lose concept of time and space. …..I fantastize about it all the time…probably not something one would see in me when I arrive at work in a suit everyday.

    that’s it…not too exciting…to anyone but me

    Comment by wn — July 7, 2005 @ 9:15 pm

  71. promise not to tell?

    i don’t take the stairs at work for exercise. i take them when i have the need to release pent-up air in my body.

    that’s a polite way to say it, don’t you think?

    Comment by jes — July 7, 2005 @ 9:16 pm

  72. by the way: happy anniversary!

    Comment by jes — July 7, 2005 @ 9:17 pm

  73. happy blogversary, petite!
    and in the spirit of sharing: my marriage to my beautiful perfect husband is a sham. don’t tell anyone.

    Comment by maria — July 7, 2005 @ 9:26 pm

  74. Petite Anglaise,

    In response to your request for a little-known little something in honor of your blogiversary: I think my interest in French things springs from the fact that my parents alluded to a distant French ancestry. The funny thing is, I don’t know if it’s really true, as they weren’t sure. How funny it would be if I were actually descended from the Irish, and became a francphile under false pretenses!

    I came to your blog via expatica.com, and I enjoy it. Keep up the good work!

    Tom Bickle

    Comment by Thomas W. Bickle — July 7, 2005 @ 9:26 pm

  75. Happy Birthday Blog de Petite…
    A secret: I love Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights.

    je t’embrasse tres forte.

    Comment by nardac — July 7, 2005 @ 9:31 pm

  76. Happy Anniversary, petite!

    There is sadly nothing about me that few people know. Sadly for them, I mean.

    But here’s something that nobody else can know: I close the bathroom door even when I’m alone in the house.

    Comment by R J Keefe — July 7, 2005 @ 9:48 pm

  77. Happy anniversary, Petite! I certainly hope you make it to the second one.

    As for my secret? I read romance novels sometimes.

    Comment by Ninox — July 7, 2005 @ 9:58 pm

  78. Relieved to know that some of the blogs really worth reading don’t fade away with time. Thanks for the recent months full of words.

    My ‘thing’: I inevitably cry watching films; I have been known to cry reading books; I have even been moved to tears by the news. On consideration, I probably cry more often now than when I was a kid. But then if I think a little longer, I realise I’m probably more of a kid now than I was when I was a kid.

    Comment by pixiek — July 7, 2005 @ 10:09 pm

  79. Vraiment bon anniversaire;

    Qui peut dire que je l’ai manque votre blog, mais hier c’etait le premier fois que j’ai vue ca? C’est le ‘top’! Moi, je ne suis pas un ‘blogger’……

    Ah, but after stumbling upon and reading your easy- flowing thoughts on yourself and your life in France, it was almost unconsciously that I stored your site in my ‘favorites’ yesterday. Bien fait! Read among other things, your essay on ‘la bise’—which, for all of it’s peculiarities to the uninitiated, remains an honor to bestow and receive. A daily gesture of respect between friends and intimates. The world could use more of such. I myself like that it is a silent form of greeting; an entre that gives moment to pause and appreciate, a parting that marks the separation with something tangible but ethereal all at the same time. My first experience of being given the verbal gesture of ‘tutoyer’, and then to part with ‘la bise’, still stirs in me a feeling of having made a connection across the cultural divide. This was at a sporting event-‘avirons'(rowing)- of some weeks duration; the sportsmanship experienced there made me disappointed that France lost the bid—I feel almost as if London won as some kind of gift channeled through Tony Blair’s association with ‘G-dubya’. The nationalism of the Olympic movement is fraught with peril anyway, I am a skeptic.

    Today thoughts must go to the Londoners in their grief and shock, however—will we ever escape the methods of violence? I do what I can to choose peaceable means and to stop the madness. Let it not feed the war-frenzy.

    What is not known about me is that I read well upside down and in reverse. Handy when reading (discreetly) across a table, or through backlit newspaper held up by a reader across from me.

    ca suffit!

    Comment by millie — July 7, 2005 @ 10:10 pm

  80. Some facts that nobody knows about me:

    My ex best friend was the most amazing person in the world, and when for some reason she ditched me, I think my heart actually broke.

    I love black and white movies.

    I listen to Norah Jones instead of Snoop Dogg.

    I only eat popcorn when I’m wearing red nail polish.

    I am a serial romantic.

    I wish I was a 50’s movie star.

    I actually think my joke vintage white cat eye sunglasses I bought in a thrift store are adorable, even though everyone hates them.

    I still want to be a fairy princess.

    Comment by Teenie Martini — July 7, 2005 @ 10:27 pm

  81. Happy anniversary, Petite! Your blog has become a part of day. I’m always sad when there isn’t a new post.

    Something no one knows about me: I battle with fatigue caused by chronic anemia, and I sometimes nap in my car during my lunch hour so I can get through the day. I’m still not sure why this feels so taboo, but it does.

    Comment by Moxie — July 7, 2005 @ 10:54 pm

  82. Happy blog-birthday! Love your blog. Hope you’ll make it to your 2nd bday. Love the photo. You were supercute.

    Here’s my thing: I was a child shoe model! OK, it was for the company my dad worked for, but I modelled several times, up and down the catwalk with mismatched shoes, stopping and pointing my feet at the spots on the edge marked with tape. Usually we were paid 50p and sometimes we got to keep a pair of shoes!

    Comment by kjr — July 7, 2005 @ 11:15 pm

  83. I had to go to the emergeny room when I was three for shoving a raisin up my nose.

    Happy b-day you.

    Comment by Coquette — July 7, 2005 @ 11:39 pm

  84. Salut Petite, ça fait un moment que je lis ton blog. J’adore te lire parce que:
    1) ta prose est superbe
    2) je ne connais pas d’autre blog qui soit aussi honnête et franc que le tien.
    J’espère bien qu’il y aura un second anniversaire :-)

    alors, un truc à propos de moi:
    J’ai été obsédée par les Allemands pendant toute mon adolescence… jusqu’à ce que j’aille passer deux semaines à Hambourg.

    Comment by callipyge — July 7, 2005 @ 11:59 pm

  85. Joyppy Anniverday froglaise

    A secret….erm…….I am still in love with Dorothee (80’s kids programme), dont know how she looks like, 30 years on.

    ZedZero

    Comment by Zed0 — July 8, 2005 @ 12:04 am

  86. I’m pretty new to this—still moving my lips when I read and all, but what would I do without you?

    My secret: I’m a super hero… or was. I gave it up because the tights chafed a bit. Also the secret identity thing was just hugely complicated: two sets of business cards, monogrammed bath towels, etc. You can imagine. Of course, on a day like today my conscience is deeply troubled by the mammoth proportions of my own selfishness and indolence.

    Here’s hoping you don’t follow my sorry example. Do keep up the good work.

    Comment by Ennuisel — July 8, 2005 @ 12:26 am

  87. Hi, Im another lurker who has enjoyed your blog since stumbling across it months ago in Dec. I look forward to reading it every time im get near the interweb. Thought I would leave a msg as its a special occasion!

    Not many people know – I cant stand cooked carrots, dont mind them raw though. And they always seem to turn up when people cook meals for me.

    Comment by ob — July 8, 2005 @ 12:28 am

  88. Another lurker here. My first post on your site.

    Very few people in my current life know that I used to be a dancer (as in theater/performance). I miss it terribly. But I don’t miss being poor.

    Thanks for sharing the events of your life.

    Comment by chrystal — July 8, 2005 @ 12:32 am

  89. happy birthday! i’ve only just started reading, but loving your writing.
    one thing about me that not many people know is, i spend a lot more time reading blogs than i’d like to admit. its almost a sickness.

    Comment by nu. — July 8, 2005 @ 12:34 am

  90. I read your blog and your visitors’ comments every day, Petite, and enjoy it immensely. I know that it’s been said many times, but you really do have a lovely style of writing, and I’m sure that you could make a career of it.

    As for secrets, I’m not sure I have (m)any, but few people know that in my youth I appeared as part of a pantomine dragon on the stage of the Royal Festival Hall. Another is that my current partner and I got a little carried away when visiting a fairly quiet Lewes Castle a couple of years ago and had a passionate session high up in one of its towers. Only afterwards did we think to look around for security cameras :o)

    Comment by David H — July 8, 2005 @ 1:21 am

  91. Happy anniversary Petite! I’ve got an appointment with your blog everyday at 11 am NZ time.
    My secret thing only one other person knows (he’d be annoyed if he didn’t ;-) ): we’re trying to get pregnant…

    Comment by Maurine au bout du monde — July 8, 2005 @ 1:25 am

  92. I think it is Petite when she was petite not Tadpole on the picture, isn’t it?

    Comment by Maurine au bout du monde — July 8, 2005 @ 1:30 am

  93. Congrats Petite, keep on truckin.

    One thing not many people know about me, except a couple of really old friends. I had a huge crush on Cliff Richard as a teenager. I thought he was the best thing ever and pretty damn hot. I wanted to convert his christian booty to my heathen ways! This was in the lte 80’s early 90’s!!!! aaaaaargh I’m well over it now : )

    Comment by nise74 — July 8, 2005 @ 1:50 am

  94. I’m a secret lemonade drinker.

    Comment by backroads — July 8, 2005 @ 2:01 am

  95. I hope Petite will be around longer.

    Hmm. I love have my ear lobes massaged.

    Ciao.

    Comment by Cav — July 8, 2005 @ 2:17 am

  96. Happy blogiversary! Go Girl; you never know what’s around the corner, what something will bring you. That’s how you know you’re alive. That is life! If whatever you are doing feels right, keep going. Even if it loses its luster, keep at it (at least for a while, so you never think you’re a quitter). Darkest hours before the dawn kind of thing.

    Now that being said, my secret is that no one knows I read my tarot cards everyday. Yeah, I understand the irony.

    Comment by Laura — July 8, 2005 @ 2:51 am

  97. Bon anniversaire…
    A secret? Yesterday I rang a London number that I’m not even supposed to have. Simply to hear the voice of someone who walked out of my life a long time ago. Just to know she was ok. As soon as she said hello I hung up. But my breath came back.

    Comment by Jack Dalton — July 8, 2005 @ 2:55 am

  98. Just between you and me, petite …. I am hopelessly in love with you, er, I mean your writing. I suppose you’ll never know that sometime, somewhere far away, your writing would bring a smile to a broken heart.

    Happy Anniversary and keep writing.

    wuff wuff.

    Comment by snoopy — July 8, 2005 @ 4:07 am

  99. How miserably unhappy i am living with my in-laws, the nicest people in the world.
    And how guilty i feel for being unhappy here.

    love your blog,
    kara

    Comment by kara — July 8, 2005 @ 4:38 am

  100. Happy Anniverary! I discovered you via Michele’s blog and have been an avid reader ever since.

    I tend to spill my guts to anyone, so thinking of something people don’t already know about me is tough…how about the fact that the first time I drove a car alone more than a couple of miles, I ended up hitting a guardrail and doing $700 worth of damage to my father’s car?

    Comment by Bluegrass Mama — July 8, 2005 @ 5:00 am

  101. Happi Anni Petitie!

    My secret….
    I have 2 blogs. :)

    Comment by Kelly Kell — July 8, 2005 @ 5:01 am

  102. One thing about me:

    You inspire me to start my own life in Paris with my french boyfriend. And you give me hope that it’ll be a success and someday we can have our own tadpole.

    Comment by juliana — July 8, 2005 @ 5:01 am

  103. Bon anniversaire!
    I used to sew crotches in lady’s underwear for the Blue Ball Lingerie Company in Pennsylvania.

    Comment by Madame Tut — July 8, 2005 @ 5:51 am

  104. I may be the oldest person reading your blog. And I have been on the wagon for twenty years.
    Bon anniversaire

    Comment by Iowa Slovak — July 8, 2005 @ 6:49 am

  105. I haven’t posted for a long time but today I would like to express my sadness for the events in London. There are no relevant words to qualify so horrible and coward acts. I hope that families and friends of all the people here are ok.

    In spite of the tragedy the life goes on, so petite, happy anniversary!! I hope this is only the beginning of a long long blogstory.

    Comment by KitKat — July 8, 2005 @ 8:39 am

  106. A secret: At home once during a university break, desperately needing a bit of pocket change, I spent the summer assembling penis pumps on a factory line.

    Comment by Francaise de coeur — July 8, 2005 @ 8:57 am

  107. After so many comments why add one? Never mind. Yesterday – well – happy aniversary just the same. Couldn’t write it then – too busy phoning round to find out if all my beloveds were safe. They were. Are. And middle granddaughter has HER FIRST WOBBLY TOOTH. That puts thing in perspective. Have been meaning to write you a long note with all that’s going on in your life. Will do sometime. As for Blogs- they do develop and grow. I hope yours will do even more.

    Guilty secret? Many. But here is one my nearest and dearest know; never mind- I am ADDICTED to the Archers. And one they don’t. I would watch Big Brother avidly, but for my Beloved’s scorn. I’m grateful – really! – that stops me.

    Comment by grannyp — July 8, 2005 @ 10:25 am

  108. I too chime in with the blogiversary chorus (just realized I am two months your senior in the blogosphere!). May you blog for many years to come!

    Comment by Chameleon — July 8, 2005 @ 10:28 am

  109. Hmmm…
    Noone knows I’m part of a French classified sect. But then, nearly everyone is these days…
    Yankeegirl

    Comment by Lucy-Jane in Rennes — July 8, 2005 @ 11:01 am

  110. Damn, that was supposed to be anonymous!
    Never mind, yesterday was worse. One bad thing about Rennes – bloody bloody metro controllers like *flies*
    who didn’t even believe the harassed-mother-conveying-three-kids-through-Rennes-pushchair-plus-schoolbag-doesn’t-even-speak-French thing, would you believe. What kind of people are they?? 26 Euros for 3 minutes on the metro from Republique – Gares. TWO STOPS. Jeez.

    Comment by Lucy-Jane in Rennes — July 8, 2005 @ 11:05 am

  111. What French classified sect would that be, Lucy?

    Sorry you got clobbered. They didn’t go for the ‘My kids might speak French but I haven’t got a clue what you’re on about’ line then? I should have given you my ticket – didn’t think of it at the time. Sorry.

    Am still working on which of my dark secrets I should reveal… if any…

    Comment by Susan in Rennes — July 8, 2005 @ 11:18 am

  112. Happy anniversary, please don’t stop writing !

    When I was a student, I had a drunken one night stand (if you could call it that, because I couldn’t stand). I felt ill, leaned over the side of the bed and vomited into my jeans which were lying on the floor next to the bed. Next morning, too ashamed to own up, I PUT ON my jeans, pretending nothing was amiss, and squelched out the door. I never saw the guy again, thank god.

    Comment by Mancunian Lass — July 8, 2005 @ 11:27 am

  113. Normally I criticise the English and England, focus on being half-Scottish and nearly French. Today I feel very proud to say that I am born and bred in England.

    Comment by Lucy-Jane in Rennes — July 8, 2005 @ 11:47 am

  114. Happy Anniversary Petite!
    Bisous.

    Comment by Chninkel — July 8, 2005 @ 12:00 pm

  115. No-body knows that I cried when I recieved a beautiful amber necklace from the parents of one of favourite students as a leaving present. I cried again when I watched the news yesterday, but those were the first tears in nearly two years.

    Comment by Anne — July 8, 2005 @ 12:02 pm

  116. Here’s my secret: yesterday, I got up and read your site (it’s one of the first I check out in the morning). A few hours later, I saw the news from London. The first thing I did was check back on petiteanglaise to see if you had posted about the events yet.

    Your writing is wonderful, don’t stop!

    Comment by Gem — July 8, 2005 @ 12:13 pm

  117. Congratulations on your one year of blogging, Petite.

    Given what has happened in London I too don’t feel very celebratory. My heart goes out to everyone affected by this senseless violence.

    The thing about me that noone knows about?

    I am thinking about packing me and my two children, travelling to Canada to work for a year, maybe two. Shhhh, don’t let it get around.

    Comment by Bella Ozfemme — July 8, 2005 @ 1:27 pm

  118. I am completely and hopelessly in love with my best friend but I am too scared to tell him in case I lose him as a friend.

    Comment by hannahish — July 8, 2005 @ 1:48 pm

  119. Thank you for all those comments – wow, we broke the 100 comment barrier for the first time.

    The photo is, of course, of me, not Tadpole (if you have been paying attention, you will remember she has curly hair), doing a spot of colouring in, rather short-sightedly.

    It’s one of my favourite pictures.

    Comment by petite — July 8, 2005 @ 2:00 pm

  120. Dude, some of these secrets are WAY TOO COOL. Penis-Pump assembler is so a little tidbit I wouldn’t mind adding to my cv. Underwear crotch-sewer isn’t too shabby either.

    Comment by kim — July 8, 2005 @ 5:11 pm

  121. Something most people don’t know is that I am terrified of speaking in public. This is despite working as a teaching assistant for six years.

    Comment by Kris — July 8, 2005 @ 5:33 pm

  122. Hi Petite-

    Congrats on your anniversary. My first anniversary was a bit of a milestone, too. :)

    Something that few people know about me (but apparently now many people will!) is that I have a fire present in my dreams every night. I have since I was a little child, and my parents are convinced that in a past life, I must have had some very strong encounter with fire to make me constantly remember it.

    ~ Mel.

    Comment by Melissa — July 8, 2005 @ 5:37 pm

  123. Kim!
    As a soon-to-be-holder of a PhD, “Penis-Pump Assembler” is not on my CV!
    Although…it might make me appear to be a more interesting academic, now that you mention it. Nevertheless, you blogophiles are the first to know – even my parents thought I went to work each day that summer to conduct retail inventory.
    A big surprise: The sheer NUMBER of penis pumps that are mailed out to men around the world each day – we’re talking thousands from that one company alone. And they came in “small, medium, and large”. Ahem.

    Comment by Francaise de coeur — July 8, 2005 @ 5:46 pm

  124. I am a mole and I live in a hole.

    Comment by Tim — July 8, 2005 @ 6:06 pm

  125. française, and I’d be willing to bet that for some reason, the majority of men that feel they “need” the penis pump probably order themselves the “large” size. or perhaps I’m just being a lil’ too cocky (buh-dum-bow!)

    Comment by kim — July 8, 2005 @ 6:10 pm

  126. Hi there. I read you often and comment seldom. I enjoy your blog and most especially the way you write it.

    My little known fact? I dye my hair.

    ~K!

    Comment by Kismet — July 8, 2005 @ 6:33 pm

  127. I’m a regular PA reader, delurking to give my secret: not one of my current friends knows that I posed for Playboy when I was a college freshman. Fifteen years later, I’ve lived to regret it in a million ways and I would die of embarrasment if anyone found out. *slinking back into the shadows*

    Comment by pooh bear — July 8, 2005 @ 10:24 pm

  128. when i speak french – which is not often – i sound like a texan. what is totally strange is i am not from texas but born in DC. Bon Jour & Belated
    happy first blog anniversary! or happy 1stblogday :)

    Comment by patty — July 9, 2005 @ 12:07 am

  129. Petite, you and your blog are proof that A) anyone and everyone has interesting lives, especially when written about elequently. And B) living in Europe rocks. So, for my secret. Well, I live in the US, but I don’t think I’d ever come back if I lived abroad. The States suck right now. Thanks for being a great writer. It’s inspirational to boring journalists like me.

    Comment by Owen — July 9, 2005 @ 12:32 am

  130. Joyeux anniversaire – I have no real idea what this means as I just copied and pasted it …. but I hope it means happy anniversary.

    Comment by andre — July 9, 2005 @ 12:59 am

  131. my secret: I always complain about having to live in the US… but really, I love it here :) joyeux anniveraire a ton blog!

    Comment by miss lulu — July 9, 2005 @ 2:27 am

  132. i’ve been trying to think of a secret, and i just can’t. my god, am i that transparent? i’ve got no secrets. oh, how boring…

    Comment by brando — July 9, 2005 @ 3:12 am

  133. Petite, you are not posting so that we reach 200 comments, are you?

    Comment by KitKat — July 9, 2005 @ 9:19 am

  134. I only found you recently, but am already quite devoted. I recently left my partner of 5 years, and I have not regretted that decision in the least.

    My secret that not many people know: Today (8 July) is the 8th birthday of the son that I gave up for adoption at birth. I’ve not regretted that decision, either.

    Best in the coming year. You write life beautifully, and I want to write like you when I grow up.

    Comment by Yummy Ambiguity — July 9, 2005 @ 9:49 am

  135. Kim,
    That was the interesting part. Only WE, the assemblers, knew that the pumps came in S,M & L. The men themselves couldn’t request them; they were prescription-only (ordered by their urologists, I suppose), and it was the prescription-writer making the decision. Oh, if the men only knew!! But, as I’m sure that exactly ZERO of the men who own one would ever (a) even admit to owning it or (b) compare it to that of others if they did, then the secret of the sizes remains with the assemblers and PA blogophiles.
    NB: I’m quite sure that if allowed to order their own, most men would write in “JUMBO” on the form….don’t ya think?

    Comment by Francaise de coeur — July 9, 2005 @ 11:47 am

  136. Hi Petite, and bon anniversaire. It’s always a pleasure to read your blog.

    My secret is that I have run out of things to tell people that hardly anyone knows ;).

    Comment by Emma — July 9, 2005 @ 11:52 am

  137. KitKat: that thought crossed my mind as well!!

    Comment by Nicnu — July 9, 2005 @ 12:52 pm

  138. So the more we comment, the sooner we will have another post to read. Let’s go!
    Btw petite, don’t you have any secret to share with US (we won’t tell anyone either)? No identity to reveal or things like that? Hum

    Comment by KitKat — July 9, 2005 @ 1:45 pm

  139. Congratulations on 1 year, Petite! Another new reader but thoroughly enjoying your site.

    A secret? Gosh, it’s scary how hard I had to think about this. I have had more than six gentlemen declare their love for me but I myself have only been in love twice.

    Comment by April Finch — July 9, 2005 @ 2:14 pm

  140. Happy Blogversary! I read your blog almost every day. I wake up, make coffee, sit down at my computer and commence to reading. It’s my early morning routine and you have become a part of it.
    Well, since I’ve been blogging, there aren’t many things that aren’t known about me, but here’s one: When I was about 8 or 9, I had a wild crush on Donny Osmond. Not particularly because I thought he was cute, but because he sang and wore purple socks.

    Comment by Taarna — July 9, 2005 @ 6:46 pm

  141. hurrah! look at all these people! i’m very very happy to be on this looooooooong list as well! :)

    So here’s my secret, and it’s only ’cause I dig you so much:

    I posed in the buff for an art class in college.

    Twice.

    Bon anniversaire et gros bisous ma fille! :)

    Comment by ViVi — July 9, 2005 @ 9:24 pm

  142. How to follow all those kind words….Hmm…Thank you for having the courage to share what you share,the sense to hold back what you dont and for having the wisdom to know the difference.

    Comment by Colin — July 9, 2005 @ 9:34 pm

  143. What a brilliant idea you had here – hope you make 200 comments.

    One of my favourite blogs just celebrated 7 years and 3 million hits. Maybe you will do the same. If not, I’m sure you will still be writing in 7 years, and this began it all…

    In solidarity with Timorous Beastie: Whilst walking across Spain (the Camino de Santiago) some years ago I was robbed at knifepoint and then forced at knifepoint to jerk the creep off. I never told anyone, not wanting to be nagged that it was dangerous to go off on adventures alone. And the rest of my walk was wonderful, I met dear, dear friends and a (French, as it happens) guardian angel who has stayed in my heart ever since – I guess I was open to them.

    Comment by Jean — July 10, 2005 @ 12:18 am

  144. Hullo. My name is not really JonnyB.

    Comment by JonnyB — July 10, 2005 @ 12:21 am

  145. Dear Petite,
    Happy anniversary, and congratulations on your bravery in changing your life.

    My admission: I’m always late to parties because I so dread dealing with people in a social setting that I keep putting off getting ready until far past any sensible time.
    N.

    Comment by Natalie — July 10, 2005 @ 1:19 am

  146. *hug* Be safe and be well.

    I have a secret. I had a child when I was 21, who I placed for adoption. She is well loved and cared for by her family, and I haven’t seen her since. I suppose if she wanted to contact me, I’d be willing, but I don’t think I’d go out of my way to contact her.

    Comment by Anna — July 10, 2005 @ 7:53 am

  147. i had sex last night. for the very first time in all my seventeen years. no one knows that…happy anniversary!

    Comment by classy — July 10, 2005 @ 1:50 pm

  148. I’m afraid of velvet.

    also I was watching classy last night ;P

    Comment by Neptune, God of the Seas — July 10, 2005 @ 6:52 pm

  149. Congrats – I’m approaching my anniversary too.

    My secret? My blog has caused serious aggro in my family. And it hasn’t made me change a thing. The therapy it gives is worth the crap I get dished up because of it.

    Comment by deeleea — July 11, 2005 @ 8:05 am

  150. Here’s my secret: I had a miscarraige with my ex a few years ago; at the time I was completely devastated. Now, I am actually thankful for it, because I would hate to have a kid with him. I’d hate to have to deal with seeing him and all the uncool ways he thought our kid should be raised. (“Let’s raise all our kids different religions and see what happens!” “Are you serious?” “Yes, why not? People have kids to experiment with life.”)

    Happy anniversary. :) Long-time lurker, here.

    Comment by M — July 11, 2005 @ 8:18 am

  151. Love your blog – found it sometime last year and was initially interested as I have a child the same age and am also an expat surrounded by francophones. Your wonderful writing has kept me hooked.

    My secret? I continued taking the pill for some months after we had agreed that it was the right time to have a child. Said child has turned out to be the best thing that ever happened, but I am now agonising over having number two, despite not having many reproductive years ahead of me. Just close my eyes and jump.

    Comment by gemma — July 11, 2005 @ 9:11 am

  152. Does it count if I comment twice?

    Now here’s a secret…..None of my shorts are blue.

    Comment by parkin pig — July 11, 2005 @ 10:27 am

  153. I’ve never smoked crack or done a drive-by shooting

    Comment by adrian — July 11, 2005 @ 10:35 am

  154. One thing that you don’t know, petite, is that I read your blog everyday, without commenting. Like many others, I think.

    To answer your request : I will confess something horrible, and maybe so french : I tend to wear my socks more than one day (which I never do with my boxers or shirts…).

    Comment by versac — July 11, 2005 @ 12:42 pm

  155. Secret? I hate hair. So I wax.

    Comment by Germain — July 11, 2005 @ 1:36 pm

  156. Happy anniversary to a wonderful writer. Didn’t comment through the long story of the big change, but the universe has unfolded as it should for you.
    Oh, a secret, right. Here’s two: one, I am a lifetime member of the slug loathing society. Two, when I was about 12, I had to jump off my bike when forced off the road by a huge truck. I was so pissed off and scared I kicked it in the crossbar, necessitating a trip to emergency and crutches for a week. I lied and said I hit it by accident while jumping off. My parents and the doctor said wouldn’t it be funny if she had gotten mad and kicked the crossbar, and then had a good laugh about it.

    Comment by LisaP — July 11, 2005 @ 2:03 pm

  157. Happy anniversary! May the coming year be a fulfilling one, I wish you all the best.

    Comment by Estelle — July 11, 2005 @ 2:03 pm

  158. I am phobic of cotton wool, shaving foam and people touching my neck.

    I can’t believe you’ve only been blogging for a year. You seem so accomplished at it.

    Comment by Clare — July 11, 2005 @ 2:08 pm

  159. When I was little, I was scared of doing “big jobs” on the toilet, because I thought a doctor in a white coat might jump out of the toilet bowl and jab me in the bottom with a big syringe.

    Comment by mike — July 11, 2005 @ 2:12 pm

  160. Congratulations!

    My secret….Not only do I watch the American reality TV game show, The Amazing Race, I would very much love to participate in it.

    Comment by Claire — July 11, 2005 @ 3:11 pm

  161. Happy Blogiversary!!

    Fact: I love watching D.I.Y. Shows

    Comment by Kirsty — July 11, 2005 @ 4:12 pm

  162. Happy Blogday !!! Chocolate cake ?

    Comment by Negrito — July 11, 2005 @ 5:27 pm

  163. ooh! chocolate cake.. I’ll soon be spending a few weekends in Paris and that would be a very tempting offer indeed!

    Comment by petite — July 11, 2005 @ 5:54 pm

  164. Happy bloggiversary!

    I happened upon your marvellously written blog the other day via little.red.boat (another marvellously written blog – I don’t know if it was her who posted comment 58 but if so, she’s silly, I read it lots), and every day since I’ve checked back to see if you’ve written again.

    A small secret: I have had two rude dreams about Tony Blair.

    Comment by eyesee — July 11, 2005 @ 6:46 pm

  165. Happy Anniversary. I just started reading your blog today as I am interested in learning about living in Paris someday. As a fellow blogger, I hope you continue to blog. I really enjoy your stories.

    Ok, so now it’s time to tell you something that a lot of people don’t know about me? Only a few people know about this and, at this point, I feel it is a few too many people. I am a married woman, unhappily married, but married nonetheless. I began chatting on a french website (I don’t speak French, go figure) and I met the love of my life! I have been talking with him for over 9 months and went to see him in Paris this past May. My husband doesn’t know I went to Paris. He thinks I vacationed somewhere in the USA with my best friend. Now a divorce is in my future and a new life in Paris.

    Comment by american_chick — July 11, 2005 @ 6:50 pm

  166. One down, many more to come. Congratulations Petite!
    I didn’t guess the picture was you- I have to say Tadpole (tiger piccie)does look a lot like you at a young age.

    Comment by Joy — July 11, 2005 @ 6:59 pm

  167. I, too, am a faithful reader who will comment now only because it’s fun to tell secrets….

    …when applying for colleges, I told everyone that I didn’t want to go to “art” school because I thought it was more important to have a well-rounded education, when really I was worried about discovering I wasn’t talented.

    I’m still working in the arts, so I guess the talent is there afterall….

    Comment by carrie — July 11, 2005 @ 8:35 pm

  168. Hello Petite, I consistently enjoy your writing and look forward to new installments. In honour of your willingness to share your life here is a secret from mine: no one except a close friend in another hemisphere knows that I am thinking of leaving my partner of 3 years. We live a happy loving life together but it is being corroded by the acid fact he cannot/will not say ” I love you”. So simple. So hard. So important.

    Comment by Alison — July 12, 2005 @ 12:10 am

  169. It’s 11:19 am in NZ … here I am and no new post :-)

    Comment by Maurine au bout du monde — July 12, 2005 @ 3:19 am

  170. I love these comments because now I know that I’m not the only one who has a ‘beauty mark’ in the nether regions, hates to be touched, or feared the toilet as a child.

    Happy blogiversary

    Comment by janna — July 12, 2005 @ 4:56 am

  171. Happy blog birthday!!

    When I was very little I had nearly white hair, and the kid next door used to call me “the professor”.

    Comment by Mike — July 12, 2005 @ 11:28 am

  172. This is a bit late – but Well Done on a great year.

    I “borrowed” £500 on graduation for a new set of clothes for interviews and then blew the lot on a week on Corfu

    sp_999

    Comment by sp999 — July 12, 2005 @ 5:10 pm

  173. A very happy anniversary, and many happy returns!
    Fact: I am a committed 12-stepper. And, my last name isn’t really Kalda. :)

    Comment by Alda Kalda — July 12, 2005 @ 5:13 pm

  174. Hi there, been reading for some time.
    Your writing is very good.

    me lets see…… my family has no idea how lonely I feel.

    Comment by peri — July 12, 2005 @ 11:59 pm

  175. I stumbled onto your weblog from Chocolate & Zucchini and I’m so happy I did. I love hearing about your life in France — I’ve never been but would love to take a trip there one day.
    My secret? I’ve been trying to teach myself to speak French for the past few months via books and tapes. Not even my husband knows I am doing this.
    Congratulations on your one year anniversary.

    Comment by Pamela — July 13, 2005 @ 12:21 am


RSS feed for comments on this post.

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.

Blog at WordPress.com.