Pauline Minnis lives in Menton with her husband and teaches English and Drama at the International School of Nice. Pauline is a dedicated teacher and gives her time to organising workshops and outings to give her students the best opportunities possible.

We asked Pauline our famous 5 little questions and this is what she wrote...

1) What makes you smile?

Hearing the young voice of my two year old Grandson call Grandma very early in the morning. Unexpected messages from my three daughters, Olivia, Lottie and Sophie and seeing them, and watching them together. Geoff being there when I get home from work...and the blue of the sea and sky and shimmer of heat of the Cote D'Azur. Champagne and friends, gardening, going to the theatre - and every day my students! I love their take on life. I smile a lot, and love to laugh and can see the funny side of things - most times, and sometimes to the annoyance of others.!!!

2) What or who inspires you?

Blue skies and sunny weather make me full of energy. Encouragement from friends is a great motivator. Gardening inspires me. Not only watching shoots flowers and vegetables appear but being outside and in the mud enables me to think and plan...and good books of course -.Helen Dunmore is one of my favourite authors for her children's and adult books. Annie Lennox has to be one of the most inspiring singers and women of today - and Meryl Streep the most inspiring actress.

3) Do you believe in gut instincts?

Yes. Definitely where friends are concerned. If I feel an empathy for someone at first sight then the friendship  usually blossoms and lasts. I think it's important to trust your feelings and take notice of them. The same applies to places. If somewhere doesn't feel right, then it's not! The same applies to decision making...if it feels right , then do it.

4) Your three essential things if you were stuck on a dessert island would be what?

Paper and pencils as you could then do anything! Sketch, write poetry, make lists, and even write that book that's been planned for years and years. I'd love my mobile so I could chat to family and friends - and listen to music. How essential are they though?... I would take my husband as he is so practical and could build a proper shelter!

5) If you are planning a day/night out, what do you enjoy doing the most?

In the day I love to be in the fresh air on a  long walk along the coast, rather than in the hills, with a simple picnic - bread and cheese, tomatoes. I love walking round a glorious garden. I'm not so fond of crowds when I'm unwinding - probably because I'm with young people all day, every day at work. I like socialising but in small groups. I love going to the theatre, opera and concerts in the evening... and I love browsing round art galleries. (I'm not so good with museums)...