most afternoons, on the walk home from french class, i stop by the small sandwich stand down the lane from the house for an easy and tasty lunch...yellow and gold awning, glass case, pyramids of baguette sandwiches....jambon et fromage, poulet aubergine, and the newest, curry poulet...the french make fabulous sandwiches!
but seemingly stonefaced service...no facial expression whatsoever or even a nod from the staff (which is constant, always the same madame et monsieur). until this week! the clouds have parted, the sun is shining, i am indeed a human being! "Bonjour Madame, qu'est que vous voulez aujourd'hui?" what? me? are you talking to moi? and is that a hint of a smile i see? and recognition in your eyes?!?! it cannot be! is it so?!
there must be a mathmatical equation in the beauracratic regulations for this, i know it is a common experience for expats and visitors alike.
length of time (no shorter than five weeks) x frequency of visits/choice of item x quantity+ level of french spoken + small dog/scarf wearing ratio=greeting, acknowledgment of existance of regular customer