It's been a while since I wrote--my husband is back home in the U.S. while our children and I have moved into an apartment in Lyon, France, before we rejoin him in late September. Moving and parenting alone is exhausting, but the kids and I are delighted to be here establishing a French life for a while, and our kind neighbors add a sense of community to this place. Our apartment is in one of the largest Renaissance-era neighborhoods of Europe, and it's amazing to traverse the narrow cobblestone streets each day! I'll share more about life here soon (I hope to get back to a twice-per-week blogging schedule), and in the meantime, here are some weekend links for your enjoyment:

*My son running down a street in Vieux Lyon*

The top 20 places to buy a home In France (via the British Telegraph). We're not currently considering this (I wish we were!), but it's fascinating to see what you can get for your money in different parts of France. The small but wonderful Airbnb apartment where we stayed in Paris last month is on the market for 570,000€, but half that price could get you a lovely home in Bretagne. Location, location, location! Still, I'd have a hard time choosing between those two options.

*A village in the Megève near the French Alps*

The top 100 French brands, ranked by financial value. Louis Vuitton tops the list, but Président cheese, Hennessy liquor, and L'Oréal makeup aren't far behind.

My three-year-old son threw some memorable tantrums in Paris, and he and I still struggle to agree on just about everything, but this article (reviewing Erickson's book on Childhood and Society) reminded me that my son has a need for gentle guidance, and especially so at his current age. (Article by Julie Callazo at Brain, Child.)

Eight reasons why Lyon is cooler than Paris. I admit that I'm constantly thinking of taking the TGV up to Paris with my children for another quick visit, but Lyon is admittedly a more liveable city. I was talking with my neighbor about Lyon today and he cited several of these same reasons to explain why he loves living here.

*View of Lyon and Fourvière hill from Croix Rousse*

*A stormy sunset two weeks ago over Montée de la Grand Côte, Lyon*

I'm sure you heard about this, but I felt so proud to be an American (and an Oregonian) when I heard about the heroism of these young men on the French train last weekend. And I was equally embarrassed to hear about the French train employees' cowardice--but I have to admit, I don't know which action I would have taken when faced with a similar choice between self-preservation or valiant courage. I'm grateful for the Americans' example. (Article via People.com.)

Learning a foreign language may make you immune to two key decision-making biases via the Business Insider. Evidently, thinking about a problem in a foreign language gives it a certain psychological distance that can be helpful. Intriguing, right?

Bon weekend!