Cover image:  Shirley Monestier cruising the Garonne River
© Jean-Marie Monestier

In Part 1 of this article, I introduced you to Shirley Monestier with a focus on her development as a visual artist.  Today's post will examine Monestier's thoughts on expatriation and the women's organizations that have been a large part of her social integration in France.

Shirley Monestier has lived in France since December 1991.  Her approach to moving abroad was to "take the risk and just do it."  She says her very first goals were to:

"learn how to write a check in French, and learn French words for grocery shopping.  Two important things in my life…money and food!"

To make the transition easier, she connected with expats and expat organizations that helped her assimilate into French culture.

The Association of American Women in Europe (AAWE) is one of these groups.  When you visit the home page of their Website, you learn that it is a "bicultural community of American women primarily in France ..."

which

"... fosters an environment that enables our members to create bonds, develop supportive relationships and [establish] lifelong friendships."

Monestier joined AAWE in 1993, shortly after moving to the northwestern Paris suburb of Taverny.  While she is no longer a member, she credits the group for offering her tremendous support during the early years when she strove to adapt to living in French society:

"AAWE offered me a wealth of information on how to assimilate in France.  Their monthly meeting was like a home away from home.   Through this group, I met many dynamic women with whom I still maintain friendships today.

"AAWE opened up avenues for me to use my creative and culinary skills.  As a member, I co-edited a bilingual dessert cookbook called LET THEM EAT CAKE that is now in its third or fourth publication.  I also chaired the decorations committee for the annual fundraising Christmas Bazaar. 

"I had a very positive experience as a member of AAWE."

Interconnections
Shirley Monestier
2019 Acrylic on canvas

For six years, Monestier was also a member of an organization called Sisters - An Association of Black Women in France (no longer in existence).  For three years, she has been a member of Sistah Circle Paris, which was inspired by Sisters.  She says the benefit of being a member of both organizations is meeting a diverse group of dynamic black women who share(d) their experiences on living in France:

"The two associations helped ground me in France and offered many events that I participated in. There is no greater feeling than to be connected with sisterhoods, particularly when living in a European community. I have formed many long time friendships with sisters in both groups."

After moving to Bordeaux in 2002, Monestier joined the Bordeaux Women's Club (BWC).  This organization "helps international English-speaking women to meet each other and adapt comfortably into French and Bordelaise life and culture."

Monestier says that the group's core values are friendships and community.  As a member, she participates in fundraising activities for charities in Bordeaux.

Though she loves France, Monestier has never forgotten that her roots lie in the U.S.  She says she has a foot planted in two countries, and she loves them both. 

In concluding our interview, she shared these final words for ETBP readers.  They embody her expatriate story:

"Never give up on your passions, follow your dreams, take risks because they are part of the journey. 

"Creativity is a gift, so share with others.  Be loving and kind to humans and nature.

"And remember, 'Nothing is over until the fat lady sings!'”

To contact Shirley Monestier about her art, send email to shirley.monestier@neuf.fr.