How a Trip to France Changed Everything: A Son’s Story

Chers rêveurs de goût, (Dear dreamers of taste)

Welcome to a glimpse of The Whispering Kitchen Archive—a sanctuary of kitchen tales, family memories, and the moments that have shaped our culinary journey. Today, I'm excited to share an excerpt from a very personal story by my son, Erick.

Rainy Day at Kate Hill’s Camont Maison, France. Summer 1996

Erick recently penned a memory of our family trip to France—a time when I was following my dream and, unknowingly, inspiring him to follow his. I still remember the magical days when both my sons, Erick and Jaryd, were holed up on a rainy day at Kate Hill’s Camont house, playing a game they called “We’re the Richest Kids in the World.” I believe it was inspired by our stroll through the bustling open-air market in nearby Nérac (home of King Henri IV, believe it or not), and feasting on a picnic of gloriously crisp and tender Vietnamese stuffed chicken legs and wings. We searched for just the right spot and enjoyed our feast under the romantic glow of the bridge of nine arches. With summer rolls in hand and fish sauce nearby, laughter echoed along the riverbanks, painting memories that have lasted a lifetime.

This beautiful memory is only a taste of Erick’s heartfelt story—a story that reminds us that the dreams we chase have a way of rippling far beyond our own lives.

Our oldest, 10 year old, Erick by the Canal Latéral near Camont, 1996
Learn more about Erick at C’est si Bon! Cooking School

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Jaryd, 7 years old, our youngest, waiting, mostly patiently, to go into Nerac’s market.

Thank you for being part of this journey. I promise there’s plenty more delicious, heartfelt stories on the menu!

With warmth and wild dreams,

Dorette

Founder, C’est si Bon! Cooking School and DES Publishing