French la Vie

Baby Bites?

Sweet butter flakiness,

Do you think Olivia liked it?

Please caption this in the comment section.

 

The Cycle of Love and Life Endures

Blue skies, budding trees, flowers blooming, birds singing, welcome spring! The revival of nature is a gentle reminder that I, too, can shed my old skin and rejuvenate myself. 
The cycle of life, nature’s song, and the signs it gives us to believe in.

The constant call to embrace the sacred dawn.

A leaf falls, nourishing the soil, and a seed blossoming into new life is a sacred occurrence that symbolizes the unending cycle of love and vitality. This perpetual process of renewal is a reminder of the sanctity of life and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

I see that we are the falling leaf and the blooming seed it reminds me of the possibility of growth and transformation, and the cycle of life continues unabated. Through this constant renewal, the beauty and resilience of the natural world, we are challenged to hold its invisible hand and live in unison.

 

 

I am a tiny set of cells; I came 

pushing through the dirt, nourished by rain

bathed in sunlight.   

From the first breath of morning light
to the final one, let go, and life's journey unfolds.

To dance in its rhythm without regret or fear.

 

Kitchen Breakfast Poetry

Take a bowl, mash a banana in, Oats uncooked, let the mixture begin, Add an egg, a spoon of yogurt, heaping, And cinnamon, salt, to make it worth keeping.

For a pop of flavor, don't be shy, Ginger, orange peel, coconut to try, And just a touch of nutmeg zest, To make it pop-a-lious, be our guest.

Heat a pan, let butter melt and swirl, Pour in the mix and let it unfurl, Five minutes on one side, let it cook, Then scramble it up, no need to look.

Serve with fresh fruit, a perfect fit, Strawberries, blueberries, enjoy every bit, Or savor it plain, it's all up to us,

Scrambled oats, a breakfast must.

 

Recipe:

One mashed banana

3/4 a cup oats

1 tablespoon of yogurt

1 teaspoon of cinnamon

1 teaspoon butter for the pan, and a pinch of salt.

 

Mashed banana, egg, and yogurt in a bowl until smooth,

Spread it out evenly in a buttered skillet, over low heat let it cook for five minutes,

Flip it over let it be for a minute then scramble like an egg.

 

Correction to Yesterday's Post

 

Yesterday's link to the post did not connect you to the personal video.

Here is the correct link:

“ I hope there are days when your coffee tastes like magic,

your playlist makes you dance,

strangers make you smile,

and the night sky touches your soul.

I hope there are days when you fall in love with being alive.”

Brooke Hampton

Click on the text will take you to a clip I made on my instagram that shows my family.

Fall in Love with Life

Click on the text below to see more photos x

 

“ I hope there are days when your coffee tastes like magic,

your playlist makes you dance,

strangers make you smile,

and the night sky touches your soul.

I hope there are days when you fall in love with being alive.”

Brooke Hampton

“

Bananas and Artwork

Gabriel enjoys drawing: people, the sun, and flowers. After school at the park, he carefully describes his art to Olivia while she holds onto her banana halves.

Chelsea sent me this photo of the artist and his admirer.

 

Daily Walk Views

 

 

 

Roman Artifacts at the Brocante

(Photo: A Roman ring seen at the French brocante last weekend.)

The French brocante offers more than disregarded dusty old things from someone's attic, and it offers more than hopeful boxes of disheveled, could-be treasures. The French brocante is not just a place to find unbeatable prices or the chance to find a Picasso. It is a living museum with touch-able history, where you can be the digger in an archaeological site, and best of all, it can be taken home.

French Husband and I met a dealer who specialized in Roman artifacts. The dealer has been collecting for years, and he started selling not so long ago. His stand was full of rare, interesting pieces. He freely shared his knowledge and stories. I felt like a sponge, soaking up every word. I think I must have asked two thousand questions, mostly: "What is this?"

(Photo: A Roman coin found at the brocante last year.)

I must admit I usually spend most of my time looking for things that speak in muted color romance, old things that have more than their fair share of age, and brocante items that have little monetary value but rather tell a story, depict a feeling. I guess you could say I am a sucker for worn beauty 

Old coins, especially Roman artifacts, the dealer at the brocante told me, are often found in fields, where Roman roads traversed he mentioned that when a field has recently been toiled bits and pieces from the past are brought to the surface.

Driving home, I thought about the poppy fields soon to be with new insight. Battles fought, lives lost, bits and pieces of  unknown stories, and memories, buried within, unearthed over time giving us a key to the past... and red poppies bloom.

 

Love Song

 

The poet Arne Garborg championed the use of Landsmål (now known as Nynorsk, or New Norwegian), as a literary language; he translated the Odyssey into it. He founded the weekly Fedraheimen in 1877, in which he urged reforms in many spheres including political, social, religious, agrarian, and linguistic. He was married to Hulda Garborg. 

He was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature six times.

Read more by following this link  click here.

For You Too

These two are

too little to know

What their Vavie does with her time

One day when I am gone 

this blog will remain

a history of little things

for them to read and see-

and you will be there too.

 

Who is Who ❤️ Happy to See You!

Good morning!

I am Paula and my husband is Bob. We attended the same high school in Central Illinois during the 60s and started college at the same time and place. We feel madly in love during those early days of college but my family did not approve of our bi racial status. In our mid 20s, our paths diverged . We did survive the 60s! 

Professionally, I worked with vulnerable groups, i.e., mentally ill, developmentally challenged, foster care. I retired in 2009.

Time and life carried on, and in 2016 Bob joined me in beautiful Western Washington. We married in 2018.These photos are where were we married tho the photos are from Dec. 2022. We had a glorious trip to the Oregon Coast then. Bob has 2 grown children, 4 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren. Together we have a re homed cat and a re homed dog that we enjoy. Our home is the other side of the sound from Seattle on the Kitsap Peninsula.(Hello to Sasha!) I moved here in 2015. We garden. I never saw a flower I don't love! I have planted roses, peonies, hydrangea, lilies, and dahlias here. Peonies are my current obsession. I attached several pix of peonies. 

I am not a blog person, but have followed Corey since 2008 I believe. I so appreciate what Corey shares. I love her photos. I love, loved, the wedding; I cried!

Thank you to all for sharing positive and real. We all face challenges and finding an oasis is crucial to maintenance of our emotional well being.

 

 

 

Corey,

2009 Round Top, TX

Sue Tinker-R and myself Stephanie Miller-L met you for our first time.  We were fortunate to meet up with you several more times either at the brocante or spending the day together and visiting at your home in Provence with Yann. 

 

We’ve followed you since 2007/8 and have delighted in watching your family grow, seeing your business become successful and listening to your sweet words of prose, love along with your amazing photography!

Look forward to catching up with you in person again😘. It’s been our joy visiting France  every morning 🇫🇷 Thank you for sharing

Sincerely 

Stephanie M

 

 

 

Dearest Corey…..

I have been following you forever, cherish everything you write and have kept many excerpts to share with loved ones. Here’s a photo of my husband and I at the John Lennon Wall in Prague a few years ago. We have had the absolute pleasure of being in France four times and are planning a trip there this July….staying in Bonnieux and visiting the sunflower & lavender fields which we have always missed in late September. A bucket list thing! Both of us are huge fans of brocantes and markets….so we’re off again. Someday I sincerely hope to meet you & your beautiful family. Merci’beaucoup for your beautiful mind & entertaining us all of these years.❤️❤️👏👏👏

 

 

Hi Corey

 

I am Roberta, but I am also known by the nickname my Dad gave me as a little girl, Lucy. I named my little art business ArtcyLucy. I started following your blog, I think in 2008…it’s been a long time! I used to love hunting for treasures at the local antique shops, and that is what drew me to your blog. I still love seeing what you come up with at the brocante! I love your words and your photos, and your generous heart.  These days, you will find me either in my garden, photographing my flowers, or quietly painting at my easel, creating colorful works of art inspired by my garden. You can find my original art in my online shop etsy.com/shop/artcylucy

Hi Corey

I’ve followed you since 2008 when we spent a year living in France from our usual New Zealand with our three young sons. I own a treasured locket bought from your online store about 8 years ago. 

 

Since then we’ve sadly lost a son to epilepsy and we’re so glad we banked our France memories. I rarely comment these days but read your blog every day.  I’ll make an effort to comment again. Thank you for sharing x

Angela

 

 

 

 

Hi Corey - I'm Debbie from New Zealand.  Have enjoyed following your blog for many years - love your beautiful stories and thoughts you share with us - your blogging friends and all the stunning photos.  We used to own a little maison de village near Carcassonne - but sadly had to sell it in 2016 when my beloved partner was diagnosed with terminal cancer - and passed away in 2017.  Now your blog helps me to live vicariously, my passion for France - my favourite country.  So thank you xx

 

 

 

Hi Corey, I’ve been reading your blog since the beginning, I think. I love the warm welcome you have given us into your family and also your adventures with the brocantes. I miss Annie so much and really enjoy it when you reminisce about your beautiful times with her.

 

My husband Walt and I are retired (I am a music director, he was in the Navy) and we live in Seattle, where I grew up. We love to travel, especially in France, and we love Paris and Nice the best. Here we are in Nice last October. See how happy we look? 

(Happy indeed! C)

 

   

 

Good morning, Corey! I was introduced to your blog years ago by a dear friend and we went on to visit Provence and stay in Apt, hosted by one of your friends. We made it our base as we explored so many of the villages and their markets. A highlight was the daily delivery of croissants and baguette, still warm, by our hostess! But this photo was taken in Vienna, where I reconnected with a cousin who lives there, when my husband and I took a river cruise. From Gretchen Seibert, Buffalo, NY 

Who is Who Continues. I am Loving to Finally Putting a Face to You

 

 

 

 

Dear Corey, dear Fellow Blog Community members!

Back when Corey's father was very ill is the time I began reading Corey's blog. This must be well over ten years ago, if memory serves me? I have not missed any posts since then either. I am not a person that has written much though. I figure she has so many friends world wide through her blogging that her Email Inbox must be overflowing.

A bit about me.
I am an American who lives in Germany. I grew up bi-lingual with both German and American as my mother tongue languages. My father was a long serving US Army soldier, who retired as a Chief Warrant Officer Bandmaster. (R.I.P. Daddy CW2 Edward C. Sanner). This makes me a so called Army Brat. The constant moving world wide is something I grew up with. It has continued to be a kind of part of my life. I enjoy other cultures and am generally outgoing and communicative, something us Army Brats needed to be growing up.

In my early years I trained as a professional stage actress. I did not persue this as a career though. Only recently at the ripe "old age" of my early sixties have I decided to once again revive my love of theater and hope to get that going. Who knows, perhaps I can find an agent willing to work with me? Right now I am doing community theater and that has been fun.

Also, I am currently training as a City Host Tour guide here in Augsburg, Bavaria. I have included a photo of our Augsburg City Hall. We are one of the the three oldest Roman era cities in Germany. I love history and hope to make a success of welcoming international tourists in my beloved home town. I will offer my services in German - English - Dutch.

My semi profession is reading and teaching Lenormand cards.
I have been a cartomancer since the age of 18. First I began with Tarot. The last 20 years I have been doing Lenormand. I take this very seriously and consider this a trade one studies and learns. I am a member of the World Divination Association and love striving for a high standard of readings. To date I have yet to go professional. I just have too much going on right now. But, I have it on my list of What Is Next Goals.

Last but not least: I am single and have two Somali cats. The male is a so called Blue and his name is Xaver. His photo has him posing next to the blue vase. His sister is Mlle. Yvette. She is sitting in the Peacock chair and she is a Somali Ruddy colored girl. Both keep me happy and are my little furry family.

The photo of me in green top is my current Facebook picture. I go by the name of: Susanne SuSa (from Augsburg, Germany) should you want to find me.
I dream of one day being able to move down south and live in France being drawn to Occitane or "the Languedoc". Who knows whether this will manifest but, I do a lot of reading, studying and dreaming on France.

Be well and a big heart-felt THANK YOU to Corey!
Susanne Sanner

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am Judith, a potter from Vermont, one of many readers who turn to your blog first thing each morning.  I always admire your photography and am fascinated by the treasures you find at the brocante.  Have to add (as a grandparent myself) that I keep returning to any photos you post of Gabriel and Olivia, grinning every time I see them.

 

My photos?  Both are from about 6 years ago, one in the Hotel de Caumont Centre des Arts, Aix-en-Provence, where I was pretending for a minute that this was my own bedroom. The second photo: back home in Vermont, unloading a kiln. Sometimes I listen to French lessons while I work in the studio, hoping to put it to use next year!  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hi Corey and everyone!

I live near Seattle, Washington where I thrift, upcycle, paint, and garden. It is especially important for me to stay creative during our wet,  gray winters here in the Pacific NW. I’ve been following you, Corey, for so long, I don’t remember not reading her lovely daily posts…it had to have been around 2008 when I found you and fell in love with “French Brocante.“ Just the sound of it!

I am a retired flight attendant and still love to travel. So I’ll be joining one of the French LaVie groups this fall. I can hardly wait! 

Thank you all for posting photos. I’m a little tardy to the party. 

Sandra Schneider

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hi Corey. I’m Jane Ann Abraham (with my Bruce) and have lived in Battle Ground, Washington for almost 30 years. I have 5 children and 9 grands.  I’m 66 years old and have been following your blog for 13 years. Your blog helped me prep for my first and only trip to France. What a memory! I have family in So Cal and have often thought of you and your family as I drive by Willows on I-5. Thank you for sharing your life and perspective with us. 

 

 

 

Hello Corey, 
Being of French heritage, of course, when I do my New Year’s dips, I always take my French champagne along here at Fox Island on the Salish Sea, south of Seattle.
I’ve followed your blog ever since you started, and have ordered some items which you promptly sent and I still treasure.
I watched your adorable children grow up and have their own adorable children. Sacha is a man of my own heart as I love to ski but when I saw him on the cliff, I too cringed!
I am a retired theater costume designer, surgical nurse and bank merchant rep. The reason I retired was because my husband promised to take me to France to live for three months and we did. The three months in the south of France was glorious, and I had tears in my eyes when we flew out of the Nice.  I’m now on my 80th year and still enjoying an adventurous life and of course, I always read your blog and think how nice it would be to visit you in Paris or Cassis, or your home in the south of France, where one of my great, great grandfathers came from in 1724 (LaFon).  I was born in Kentucky but have spent most of my life in the Northwest climbing mountains in my younger years and enjoying many adventures around the world. I would move to the south of France in a heartbeat, but the timing isn’t right and I love the Northwest, so I continue to read your blogs and dream.  
Thank you Corey for helping me enjoy your adventures in France. 
Cheers!  Villa (Lafon) Kerr      Viva le brocante!

 

 

Hi Corey, I follow your blog and read it every night before I go to bed. Probably don’t come out as much as I should but love the stories about you your family and your two beautiful grandkids.

 

A bit about me. I live in Bellevue, Washington, USA. I have three grown children, 22,24 and 26.  I’m a residential real estate agent with Coldwell Banker and love my job. However, I also love traveling and trying to find balance between the two. I bought a small place in Marseillan, France six years ago on a whim… I called it my 50th birthday gift to myself and my approved midlife crisis! It’s a small, one bedroom home in the old town which brings me such joy! I wouldn’t of bought it except my oldest daughter convinced me that they would never all be there at once and as a single parent since my kids were 2,4 and 6, I should do some thing for myself. I’m so thankful I own it and try and get over to the South of France once or twice a year. There is a flea market every Sunday in Marseillan Plage that I never miss during my visits. I’ve managed to completely furnish my home with beautiful, second-hand finds. I absolutely love your blog and seeing the beautiful finds you have and the trips you take in your area. It’s been fun watching your family grow for the past several years. Thank you for being the last email post I read before I go to bed every night on the west coast. 

 

Betina Finley

 

 

Thank you so much! More to come! 

 

 

 

 

More Beautiful Readers on Who is Who on my Blog

Hi Corey 

I can't seem to log on to anything else so hope you can do something with this!!

I have been following you from Australia forever it seems, before your Dad died.

Your posts used to arrive about 3pm and I eagerly would log in to see what was happening in your life.

I have been married to Graeme for 58yrs & known him since we were children although the spark didn't ignite until I was 17!

We have a daughter, son & 3 grandchildren. We have been fortunate to have visited France twice & am a confessed Francophile.

We have been to so many towns in our big wide country in our caravan but the dream to revisit France is always there. 

Bless you & your beautiful family. 

This photo was taken when my cousins' celebrated our beautiful cousin on what would have been her 70th Birthday. We then proceeded to drink to all our loved ones who had died, thanking them for being in our lives.

Love Leonie 🇦🇺

 

Frank and Barb a few years ago.

I never seem to smile at the right time.

 

 

 

 

Kelley (with husband Michael), living in the greater metro Phoenix AZ  area these past 30 years.  Originally from Vancouver, Washington.  

Corey, for many years now your blog has been my favorite daily go-to — always enjoying photos of your growing family, and inspired by your creative pursuits, your travels, your life in France, your positive and caring views of friends and family, and your poetry.  Blessings on you all.     

Hi Corey,

My husband and I live in a Chicago suburb currently with 3 cats. I love antiquing and mainly collect Lalique plus antique perfume bottles, non commercial. I love traveling, playing the piano, music in general and attending musicals, plays, and other events in Chicago. I’ve been reading your blog for 10 years or maybe more and have purchased some amazing antiques from you. I enjoy your blog very much. I hope to meet you someday soon!

Dawn Fleming

 

 

 

I've so few photos, like others have said I was too busy clicking the camera and do not have a phone that will upload a photo - This photo is from just before the Pandemic when I visited family back east - in the center is my kid Sister, age 72, I'm wearing the Oaxana dress and was 87. My Daughter on the other end in the sleeved shirt is 66 - funny in itself is that none of us think we are old and getting together always includes sharing a good laugh. 

 

Since this photo I turned 90 and moved the end of last year from my home of 56 years in Austin, Texas to a house that I'm making into my home located near my son and daughter-in-law in Magnolia, Texas. Nothing to keep me in Austin, my friends had all passed and over the years family moved on. I will miss the wildlife that Magnolia does not equal, like every year there was at least one fawn born in my backyard and a few times a mother fox settled in the back corner to have and raise her kits. These later years a family of owls swooped in. The owls did not chase away the other song birds nor the many possum, squirrels or coons that came by. Folks new to Austin are surprised by how much wildlife remained on their home territory.  

Cory, I've so enjoyed your posts. You are a wonderful gifted photographer and I love following the happenings with your family. Especially enjoy the times you share with us when you are with Gabriel. Those postings make me smile and remind me of my Grandboys when they were that age - they are in their 30s now except for one who is 28 - They are scattered, two Grands still in Lubbock, one in Denver, another in Seattle and the youngest who graduates from UPenn Law this Spring plans on staying in Philly, Daughter and Son-in-law in North Carolina along with my Sister and Cousins.

 

Having aged, everything is taking me longer and so I'm still in the middle of paper piles and boxes. When the house finally is remodeled and painted I've a lovely half acre that can use a few more blossoming trees and bushes along with my favorites, Herbs, Iris, Lavender and Lantana. I've baskets and boxes of needlework waiting for me - only retired in 2018 and my work (Real Estate Broker for 40 years) left little time to keep up with all the things I love to do, like making jams and jellies, soups and stews, knit (mostly socks), needlework (used to teach needlework before Real Estate and was fortunate enough to attend classes in both France and Britain) and my first passion, read, read, read - donated 100s of books before the move but still boxed 100s so that the movers teased they were moving a Bookstore - I've always had several books going at the same time since I learned to read before I started school and Mom dropped me off at the Library while she shopped the local market.

 

I've fond memories of my Grandmother when she was my age and I have to step back to take in the long history we represent - stories heard first hand from her added to my own with Mom squeezed between us. Both my Grandmothers were born the same day in 1879 however I was closest to my Mother's Mother and I really need to jot down some of her stories along with my Mother's and Mine - And so, next on the agenda, I've a desk set up and as soon as this house is a bit more functional with my things in place photos must be labeled and stories must be told.  Your sharing the little events in your life Cory has helped me realize it is just those little happenings that tell the story rather than the big events, although you did a superb job bringing us into your daughter's wedding - My head is buzzing with how to put this history together but then I've so many things buzzing each day between choosing paint colors and deciding where to store what... life at times is harsh and painful but then, like now for me, life is fun and games. 

 

Thanks for sharing your gift of family story telling - Barbara St. Aubrey  

 

The Real and the UnReal

I have always read your post.  However, I have chosen to not make even one comment in the past so I am letting you know that I enjoy your writing and thank you for your time and effort. Martha

 

 

 

 

 

Here I am with my husband, Ron as we dine in our neighborhood.  I’m Bonnie , 80years old and happily enjoying life. I stumbled on Cory’s blog a little more than a year ago. I love seeing what has inspired her that day.  It inspires me also.  Pictures of her grandchildren are the best!  But I also enjoy her musings. Always food for thought.

 

 

 

 

Greetings from New Hampshire. My name is Sue, and I’m here with my daughter’s family on her youngest’s prom night. I’m retired and love to spend time with my family and travel. Thanks so much, Corey, for transporting me to France each morning. 

Last Call

Last call for Who is Who on my blog. Please send me a photo of yourself and a note about yourself.
Please send it here:

coreyamaro@aol.com

THANK YOU!

Who Are You?

Thank you for sharing a photo of yourself on my blog. I imagine some of you wanted to but were shy or maybe did not want your image on a social media platform. I understand. Though for those of you who did, thank you, and for your messages, I was delighted to put a face to names I have read for years.

Here are a few more...

 

 

Corey, I love to read the comments from your community of readers almost as much as your beautiful posts! Your outlook on the world around you, and your zest for living,  is a blessing. 

Thanks!

I sign on as Susan in Zurich, but I was raised in Alaska, with family in the Pacific NW and Illinois.  We're enjoying the sweet life in Switzerland.

 

Hi Cory… My name is Mary Lake-Thompson. I live in Northern California. I have followed your blog forever. Back when your husband was “French husband” and the kids were still living at home. I love following your life and adventures and think you have a great taste! I always look forward to your daily post…You write with your heart❤️

 

This is my husband and me as he prepares to play Pebble Beach in January. I’ve started my mornings with you for over 12 years! Can’t wait to meet you in person one day…Cindy Rieth

 

Thank You for Sharing Who You are with the French la Vie

Hello,

Please, if you want send me a photo of yourself and a bit about yourself.

Thank you for letting me "see" you.

You can send me a photo by email at

coreyamaro@aol.com

xxx

 

It's supposed to say...My other half Randy and I are on our last big trip.

With love from Kathy, a  long-time reader (and fan) of Corey and her blog!

Kashannie

 

Hi Corey; Love your idea of introducing your blogging fans. So, here's mine from this morning outside the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento.  This is my sister Wendy, my Granddaughter, 17 yr old Makenna, her mom Sara, my husband Tommy and Grandson Bradey, 18.  Makenna's Bret Harte High School basketball team just won the California State division V championship! First time ever for our little high school in Angels Camp. Thank you. Suki

 (BRAVO!!)

 

 

 

Hi dear Corey —- this was a great idea — such fun to be able to put a face to names. 

Thank you — and for all your generous and inspiring posts!

Anna from Granger (South Bend), Indiana, with two of the Lights in my life —-

My grandsons, Evan and Andy.

 

 

 

 

More Beautiful People

Hi Corey,

 

Leslie Gelber here, from Northern California. I love to make stuff, mostly clothes. I met your mother many moons ago at her shop in Willows! I’ve been following your blog for at least 14 years. A dream would be to be on one of your tours in France. Thank you for all you share with us, the rare, the raw, and the raconteur. 

 

Hello Corey and all

 

My name is Susan, and I live on beautiful Salt Spring Island. One of my dearest friends, who also live here,  introduced me to Corey's blog, but I'll let her tell her story and name. I am about to start another adventure. I love it here, but I'm yearning for town life, so my husband and I are selling up and moving to a small town called Chemainus on Vancouver Island. We're lucky to live in such a beautiful spot. Mediterranean in growing zone, we have a huge fig tree guarding our deck. I will tell you everything about this island and, of course, my dear friend. But it's only a 20 min ferry ride, and 15 min drive away.

 

 

Hi Corey, 

I’m aka Momof5 on Corey’s blog. My name is Michelle, and I live in Boston. I am a mom to 5 adult “kids” and “Mimi” to my little granddaughter. I’ve followed Corey for many, many years and have met her and Yann twice. Once traveling to Cassis on my own and again this past May with my cousin to do her French La Vie week. What fun we had! 

I first “discovered” her blog when I was with my husband in Paris. While he was busy at a conference, I googled “Paris antique stores,” The first thing to pop up was a blog from Corey listing her favorite Paris antique stores. I visited every one of them and have been hooked on her blog ever since. I feel like I “know” so many of you! 😘Michelle

 

 

 

 

 

 

My name is Victoria Perkins, and I live on the Columbia River in Vancouver, Washington. I have read Corey’s blog daily since Chelsea and Sasha were teenagers.  I have been to France many times and love the beautiful country and the kindness of its residents.  But I read Corey’s blog for her writing.  Annie reminded me of my beloved Grandmother.  I met Corey’s mom in Willows; she is just as lovely in person as reflected in the blog. I have been a registered nurse and FNP for over 50 years.  I am a writer, jewelry maker, and birder.  In this photo, my son, Nicholas, a biologist and my favorite birding partner joins me.

 

 

 

 

Bonsoir Corey,

                      This is such a wonderful idea! I’m sending in my picture!

I LOVE BROCANTES!!!
Patricia Lynch

                                                       A Pearl In The  Attic

 

 

 

 

I have enjoyed beginning my day with Corey's virtual visit to France for many years.  I feel a bond of friendship through all her stories of family and place. Ross and I met Corey in 2018, and she is just as she appears in the blog-- charming, welcoming, and intelligent. Ross & I have been married for almost 58 years.  Our son, Andy, and his wife, Christie, have an 8-year-old son, Levi.   They bring me so much joy.  We all live in Lincoln, NE.  

Lucky me.  Judy Wilcox

 

 

 

I am Valerie.  I am 71 years old and live in Eugene, Oregon.  I recently visited my daughter and her family, who live in Luxembourg.  We took a day trip to Metz, France, and I love doorways too!  I was introduced to your blog years ago by a friend from work. And I have become obsessed since then!  I think you should write a book…you are such a great writer and storyteller.  Love your blog, and thank you for sharing your life with us followers. 

 

 

Thank you for participating on Who is Who blog readers from French la Vie.

Please send a photo of yourself and whatever you would like to add.

I am happy to see you and put a face to your messages.

xxx

 

Who is Who Continues

Hello, there, Lovely Readers!

I hope you're all doing well. I have a fun idea that I think you'll enjoy. I would love to create a "Who is Who" section on my blog where I showcase all of you. You heard that right - I want to feature your photo on my blog.

All you have to do is send in a photo of yourself and a brief description (Your name, at least!), and I will feature it on my blog. It's a great way to put a face to the names we see in the comment section.

I'm excited about this, and I hope you are too! So, don't be shy, send in your photos, and let's make this "Who is Who" section a reality. Thank you in advance for your participation, and as always, thank you for being a part of my blogging community.

xxx

Thank you to those of you who have sent me photos! I will post new photos every day that I receive them. I should have done this years ago!

Send me a photo of yourself and whatever message you would like to add either by email at

coreyamaro@aol.com

Or through Facebook messenger.

Here are today's Who is Who on the French la Vie xx

Teri Salvo and my wonderful dog Ginger with her last litter of puppies.  Now we are both retired, happily living in Chico, CA,  I love your blog and all things French!

Hello Corey, I am Nancy Bill. Like you I live my life in two different realms that I fly back and forth from. I grew up in Vermont, where I still have a home and family of origin. I married a California boy, and we live on a walnut farm near Chico, California. I have seen your mother over the years at different events but never met you. Please come and visit me sometime when you’re in the neighborhood. Peace. Nancy

 

(Several days ago, Lia sent me an email with the message below and a photo of herself. Because of this gesture, the idea sprung to create Who is Who on my blog. Thank you, Lia, for the inspiration.)

 

Thank you for your post on giving and receiving love- I have followed you forever 2008- when I moved from Hawkes Bay to Kaiwaka, away from all I knew to where my new love lives. 

 

Anyway - thank you - there is love and a friendship I feel for you and a kindred of hearts. I wanted to share my photos so you may know a little about me. 

 

Have a beautiful day, my friend. 

Arohanui Lia

 
 

Myra Koch, From Fairhope Alabama. I've been following since 2010 ( I think). Continue to hope to visit corey. Seeming possible now. Lost my dear mom (age 99 yrs 8 mons) a month ago. I always felt that Annie was a lot like her...and imagined that they might be cavorting in the great beyond. Pls, keep blogging, Corey. So many count on you. Love & peace...namaste

Susie Hamilton, with my husband Tom, on Balboa Island, CA, late last year. I happily retired and loving life in northwestern Nevada.   I've been following Corey's blog since 2008 or 2009, and have been fortunate to stay in the Paris apartment once.  Longing to do that again someday.

 

 

 

 

My name is Bev (usually commenting as Bev S.).I have been reading your blog for years. Here I am with my mother and daughter at a luncheon before my son’s wedding last year.  My husband and I are both pastors, and we live in Northern Virginia (although I am from Washington state and have lived in California and Brazil as well). I also volunteer as a county police chaplain helping people in crisis.  Thank you for sharing your life and family with me!

 

 

 

 

Who is Who on my Blog

Hi Corey,

 

Your blog was the first blog I ever read. When I was working and needed a break I would read your blog just to make me smile and ground me in a stressful day. Thank you so much.

 

I am Marilyn (marilyntea on Instagram). I will celebrate my 80th birthday next week. Recently I had the attached picture taken with my daughter and best friend, as we are all celebrating a new decade. My daughter will be 50 and my friend just turned 60. I have one grandson, 10 years old and also a husband who I call my "live-in gardener" and a son.

 

Hugs,

Marilyn

 

 

Hi, Corey, I used to be Iowa Julie, but we moved to Georgia (USA) in 2019 to be near our only grandchild.  I love my family and also the natural world; I am an apprentice wildlife rehabilitator and a Georgia master naturalist.  My special passion is trees. I wish you all peace and joy!

Hi Corey, 

I am Diane Bouchard, a Canadian living in Novato, California, just north of the Golden Gate bridge.  I work at a university and spend my free time doing art - currently focusing on pottery.

 

 

 

Hi there, fellow readers. I have been a follower and a pupil of Corey for what seems like a lot of years now, and every day, I treasure her knowledge and the things we all share with each other in response.  It is a lovely place to be part of, and I continue to look forward to every single post from Corey every day…

 

I live in New Zealand, on the South Island, but currently, we are trying to pack up our home to move to the North Island as we will be welcoming our first grandchild in a few months time.  New Zealand has had a lot of troubling weather events recently, including floods and cyclone damage, quite a bit of it in the place we plan to live in, which is not ideal, but I am still looking forward to the new experiences we will have.

 

I am a step mum and a partner of nearly 26 years to a Welshman, and we work together as well as live together, which can be interesting!

 

I am a similar age to many of you, being 63 currently and heading towards 64 in April.  I share my birth date with Barbra Streisand and Shirley MacLaine, 24th April, which seems pretty fine to me!

 

Here is one of the few photos of I have of myself more recently…I prefer taking pictures to be in them, photography being one of my favourite pastimes….Cheers Jennie (Jennifer Philippes)

 

This is the face that my grandchildren try (and still fail) to reproduce.

Kate @

Stubblejumpers Cafe

in Saskatchewan, Canada

 

 

 

Marsha F. Here. Been enjoying Corey’s blog for more than 10 years. I traveled Solo to Paris & Provence in 1995. Living vicariously ever since! So glad to have checked that off on my bucket list! I am 75 now,  I bought an RV 10 years ago, moved to Tallahassee & host / work in an office in exchange for my site. I thrift shop on my days off, & sell my finds on Marketplace. Not quite retirement, but as good as it can be ! 2 sons, 4 grandchildren! 

 

 

My name is Debby Holt. I live in Grapevine Texas. I’m a native Texan who must have lived in France in a past life. My home decor is French Provencial and I hope it always will be. I visited France in October 2015 which included a tour of your lovely home. This picture was taken in your courtyard. I’m no longer blonde as in the picture- I now go Covid Gray 😊. My sister and I traveled together to France and made a lifelong friend from our group (whom I had actually gone to high school with) that we enjoy brocanting with at every opportunity. We have that darned bug! I read your blog daily, Corey, and thank you deeply for sharing your French life with us. 

Thank you for your generosity, Corey, in allowing me to know your beautiful family and your dual life in France and in Willows, CA.  I'm your "neighbor", Irene Thomas, who has lived in Alameda, CA, since 1974.  My bedroom wall is my life encapsulated as parent and painter. 

 

 

Hello, there, Lovely Readers!

I hope you're all doing well. I have a fun idea that I think you'll enjoy. I would love to create a "Who is Who" section on my blog where I showcase all of you. You heard that right - I want to feature your photo on my blog.

All you have to do is send in a photo of yourself and a brief description (Your name, at least!), and I will feature it on my blog. It's a great way to put a face to the names we see in the comment section.

I'm excited about this, and I hope you are too! So, don't be shy, send in your photos, and let's make this "Who is Who" section a reality. Thank you in advance for your participation, and as always, thank you for being a part of my blogging community.

xxx

Thank you to those of you who have sent me photos! I will post new photos every day that I receive them. I should have done this years ago!

Who is Who on French la Vie

If any of your readers happen to visit the DeYoung/Legion of Honor,.have them stop by to say ‘hello.’

I am looking forward to putting faces on all your dear readers.

Much love,

Laurie

I’ve been reading your blog since 2009❤️

(I have known Laurie since we were children xx)

 

Here I am ((Ella), with la petite Simone as we make our daily rounds in Nice.

 

Katharine (kfb2)

Here is a link to learn more about Kathie.

 

Tina Sumser 

Créatrice de bijoux aromatiques et spécialiste en aromathérapie.

Autrichienne et tombée amoureuse du midi il y a 30 ans.

En 2020 j’ai déménagé quitté l’Autriche et commencer une toute nouvelle vie ici dans le Var. 

« Seul »et  avec ma petite voiture, mes bijoux , mes parfums je me suis jetée dans cette aventure. Et ca continue…:-)

Heureuse et très reconnaissante , Tina 🌹

 

 

 

I can’t wait to see everyone’s photos.

My husband and I are on the Aegean off Turkey.

Judy OReilly

Judyo

 

My name is Tracy H. but I usually post as TracyH because there are “two of us Tracy’s” on Corey’s blog. I am retired and have lived in Houston Texas 43 years. Originally I’m from the Midwest USA. I’ve been married to my wonderful husband for 45 years this month. In our spare time, we both love to read. We have two grown sons, who both married well, and together, they have gifted us four fun and lively grandchildren, 3 boys and a girl. They are all nearby, which keeps our lives full. 

The new me... lost 100 lbs in the last year. Retired in 2019. I enjoy photography and riding my motorcycle. Married 46 years in June. 2 kids, six grandchildren,  and one great Grandchild.

Ed



Sue Johnpeter,

Visiting the Fragonard parfumerie in Grasse last October

 

Jeanne from Ontario, Canada.  I love my family, my faith, my friends, and spring.  So anxious for its arrival.  I love great books, music, and beautifully written words—a small introduction of myself.

 

Thank you so much for sending me your photo, I love seeing you!

Please, all you other Sweethearts out there, who read my blog, send me a photo of yourself, don't be shy. Let's see one another and continue to build on this community xxx

Please send a photo through FB messenger or by email to

coreyamaro@aol.com

 

 

Who is Who?

Photo by my cousin Joan

Hello, there, Lovely Readers!

I hope you're all doing well. I have a fun idea that I think you'll enjoy. I would love to create a "Who is Who" section on my blog where I showcase all of you. You heard that right - I want to feature your photo on my blog.

All you have to do is send in a photo of yourself and a brief description (Your name, at least!), and I will feature it on my blog. It's a great way to put a face to the names we see in the comment section.

I'm excited about this, and I hope you are too! So, don't be shy, send in your photos, and let's make this "Who is Who" section a reality. Thank you in advance for your participation, and as always, thank you for being a part of my blogging community.

xxx

 

 

Welcome Tulips Sign of Spring

Behold the tulips' blooms of orange bright,

That bring the sun's warm, golden light.

Their beauty unfolds to a song so dear,

That only the hearts of children can hear.

 

 

Plant a Seed

Balancing Act

On the stool he stands

with carefree ease one foot in the air.

He is king on this sturdy old thing

claims it as a step ladder, to myself I shake my head,

« Should we take it home? » he says.

 

 

Ignoring the convincing chatter of reasons I should say no

I admire him, as he continues to balance with

His unawareness of a perfect pose.

So be it a stool for a step ladder.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gabriel and Olivia

Follow the link below to watch,

Gabriel and Olivia's adventure on the stairs

 

Making Moves in Silence

The art of not being in the spotlight,

and instead following the way of humbleness.

Sacha’s Latest

Sacha posted on his Instagram his latest adventure filming.

Mother to son,

 »Please tell me you were safe?”

Son to Mother,

“Absolutely not.”

Mother responds,

“Yikes.”

And wonders why her hair is all white.

 

A Drop that Contained the Sea, by Christopher Tin

 

The moment I saw this, I had goosebumps.

Countless times later, I still am moved.

And now Gabriel and I have watched it at least 15 times. We know some of the words and act the scene out; he is the conductor or drummer, and it is magical and holy at the same time. The first time he listened to it, he grabbed my arm and held it tightly. I told him about Goosebumps, happy tears, and the feeling of something profound that moves you.

Last night at dinner, we listened to it, and he asked me to turn it up loud.

Gabriel has very limited screen time, usually, none at all unless he is with me, and then we only watch three you tube clips a day, clips, such as, "How to milk a Cow" or "Tractor Ted'" or “Twenty Trucks for Kids”, and even then it is only three of them, not all of them at once. 

So, "A Drop That Contains the Sea" is a big deal as it is the most extended video he has ever watched (No, they do not watch TV, cartoons, or any movie. What is Disney? Or Animation? This Concert/Orchestra for any age is a must-see;

Gabriel and I talked about it often during his two days here. And then we sat and listened to it without the video imagining the conductor, the singers, the violins, the choir, and the nanosecond moment of silence woven into the piece.

Please tell me what you think of it.

 

Chocolate Pear Brownie

 

Chocolate Pear Brownie, or in French- Gateau au chocolat a la Poire (Of course I made that up, and my French is not to be taken seriously. Though I did write gateau, chocolat and poire the right way.)
Either way, in French or in English, Chocolate Pear Brownie is delicious and you will eat all of it so it is best to invite friends over when making it. Served warm, you will declare this a food god.

 

 

Ingredients

• Two ripe pears
•  250 grams, or more than two cups, of dark baking chocolate
•  125 grams, or more than one cup of butter
• 2 eggs
• 125 grams, or more than one cup of sugar
• Teaspoon of vanilla
• 75 grams of flour
• 125 grams, or more than one cup of walnuts (optional)

(I have used bananas, raspberries, and canned fruit (well drain) instead of pears and it works as well.)

 

 

 

In a pan melt the chocolate with the butter. I never use a double boiler because that is just one extra pan too many. Though I do spend more time be extra careful not to boil, nor burn what I am melting. I always lick the spoon. One less pan, but several licked spoons. Moral of the story: Same différence, when it comes to washing up or more work, but sweeter.

 

 

When the chocolate-butter is melted smooth, set aside to cool off.

Beat the eggs, sugar, vanilla, add it to the chocolate-butter mixture, then fold in the flour.

In a buttered baking dish (nine inch round) arrange the chopped pears (I leave the skin on.)

Pour the Chocolate mixture over the top, covering all the pears.

 

 

Bake at 375 f., or 190c. for 45 minutes. You might want to cover the top with foil after thirty minutes. After 45 minutes turn the oven off and let the Chocolate Pear brownie cool down inside.

 

 

Cut around the edge of the pan, then turn it upside down on a serving platter.

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream... or not.

 

 

 

Of course, you can also skip the recipe entirely,

grab a pear and some chocolate and go for a walk instead.

 

In Search of Beauty

 

Driving along the twisty roads of southern Italy, we searched for antique shops, secondhand stores, and anything that we could find to renovate the apartment. The challenge was not to be distracted by the many beautiful abandoned century-old houses with their faded patina, stone steps, and worn shutters that echoed life from the hilltop villages high above the patchwork fields, olive orchards, and sheep with their wooly coats, and the sound of church bells that echoed through the valley. 

 

 

 

Along the way, we met with people that helped us find what we were looking for. Language without words. One thing would lead to another down a different road into another shop, discover unfamiliar avenues, a serendipity journey with gold mines of simplicity that boasted our imagination, providing us with new routes to concoct our plan of action.

 

 

How many times did I want to stop to take a photo though I knew if I did, I would have a camera full and nothing with to renovate the apartment? 

The muted hues of the hillside villages were captivating though I knew with the lack of a good camera, I could not possibly capture what I could see with my heart.

Then along the roadside this bright orange building with red trim, a hint of a yellow curtain, and a heavy-laden orange tree against a blue sky, seem to come out of nowhere, I had to stop and take a photo, mainly because it was surreal.

 

Italy Renovation

Little by little, we did it

 ...  well most of it. 

Mental jogging even when I was sleeping my mind was checking boxes as to what had to be done before I left.

Paint color for rooms - check.

Tiles for bathroom showers - check. 

Faucets - check

Now, the magic hands will set to work while we are away.

 

 

The Beauty We Stumbled Upon

 

 

 

We searched the Italian countryside for pieces to furnish my friend’s pied-à-terre.

It wasn’t as easy as being in France. We managed to find a few pieces. Though the real fun was navigating the roads and language. The long twisty road home had different landmarks for each of us. Places or things my friend saw were not at all the things I recalled it was as if we were on two different roads. I noticed ancient homes that had for sale signs, my friend noticed the enormous red building. I spotted the dilapidated Ferris wheel, she pointed out the church. She would depend on Google I winged my directions with I bet a hundred dollars it is over there. I am up three hundred dollars.

We literally stumbled into someone’s yard and the owner opened his garage that was stuffed like a hoarder of antiques. I gasped.

This painting was one of the owner’s collection. 

I still dream of it.

Greens After so much Pasta

 

Bugnes During Lent

Grabbing the plastic bag I had prepared the night before, I left early in the morning for my friend Annie's house. (Annie is my friend who is 89, though she says she is 90 because she is closer to 90 than 89.) Annie told me to come early and what to bring to make Bugnes. Bugnes, like oreillettes, are similar to beignets or dough-nuts, though without yeast or self-rising agents... other than eggs.

Annie is an excellent cook, as Sacha has reminded me many times over, "...People Annie's age know how to cook. Honestly, mom, they can take a plain head of lettuce, put it on a plate, and it tastes like a million bucks." After a conversation like that, I always feel reassured about my cooking skills. Once, he went on and on about how Annie's "green beans" were the best he had ever had. I asked him if they were so different from the ones I made. But before he could answer, I said, "...shhhhhh, forget about it; I don't want to know."

 

I put the plastic bag full of flour, sugar, eggs, and oil on Annie's table. She had her apron on and handed me one. Annie placed a big bowl on the table, opened the flour sack, pouring half of it into the mixing bowl. Quickly her hands moved at lightning speed as she whipped the other ingredients into the bowl. 

Clearing my throat, I said, "Annie, Annie remember I want to LEARN how to make Bugnes. Can you tell me your recipe first?" She pointed, then wiggled her floured finger toward the kitchen drawer, "There! Over there... yes, that drawer, see it?"

Looking through her stack of neatly printed scratch pieces of paper, I found it.

• 500 grams of flour
• a Pinch of salt
• Two soup spoons of sugar
• Two soup spoons of rum
• Two eggs
• 100 ml of oil (and a bottle of oil for deep frying.)
• 50 ml of milk

Glancing at the list of ingredients and looking at what she was mixing in the bowl, I said, "Annie, it says here, Two soup spoons of sugar..." but before I could finish my sentence, she added, "Yes, I know, but my way is better."
Annie knew the recipe by heart... had twink-ed it by heart too, and knew it well. I grabbed a pen and started to scribble down what she was doing:

• Pour half a bag of flour into a large bowl
• a teaspoon of salt
• stir with a fork to blend.
• In a pan, melt 50 grams of butter, and add 100 ml of fresh cream, do not boil; melt slowly.
• Take it off the burner, add two heaping spoonfuls of sugar, and pour it over the pan; if another spoonful is worth running over the spoon, that is okay too.
• Stir until creamy.
• Add two, or three, or four soup spoons of COGNAC (at this point, I said, "Hey Annie, that isn't Rum, it's Cognac. I thought at the bakery they used Orange blossom water?" Annie didn't even bat an eye. She kept at her task. She said between spoonfuls, "Orange water is cheaper than alcohol. That is why the bakery uses it. Cognac has better flavor than rum."
• Lick the spoon before putting it into the sink.
• Crack the two eggs into the flour. Stir it, then add the butter/cream sugar mixture into the bowl.
• Mix with a spoon and eventually use your hand to combine.
• Knead the mixture until it bounces back with elasticity.
• Form it into a ball.
• Let it set for two hours.

I kneaded the dough. While it was rising, she talked about what it was like living in France during WWII. I love her stories about her past. Two hours later, the dough was double in size.

Annie handed me an empty wine bottle. "Inventive rolling pin, isn't it?"
I rolled out the dough, as thin as paper.

Annie used to be a hatmaker with a good eye for detail. She sliced the rolled-out dough into a perfect rectangle. Then Annie cut long strips down the rectangle, two inches wide. She then cut each ribbon into diamond-like shapes and slit each diamond shape down the middle. (Why, oh why didn't I take my camera, it would have been so easy to show you instead of trying to describe it!) Then she tucked the top of the diamond into the slit and pulled it through.

Annie made four to my one. Then she stopped and said, "Okay, you need to learn; go ahead and do the rest." She watched me with an eagle eye. Letting me pretend I could do it as well as she did. Though after making several of them, I did get the swing of it.

We deep-fried the Bugnes (they fry quickly, several seconds on each side.) Then we let them drain on a paper towel and sprinkled powdered sugar.

Photos: Bugnes: A French classic during February. In memory of Annie I post this every year.

Nature’s Frame

Green feast

iron heart

ivy growing abundantly

framing the door

as if to say,

 »Looky here, take a photo of me! » 

 

Italy and the Journey

It has been a week since I came to Italy to help my friend Laurie (whom I met through blogging) navigate creating a pied-à-terre. My friend and her cousins bought a property divided into three apartments in the center of an old village between Rome and Naples. Though the apartment has been renovated, several changes and decisions exist mainly due to personal taste.

We walked through the four sunlit rooms and decided what each room should be:

Kitchen, bedroom, dining room, living room.

We made a checklist of things that needed to be done.

We looked at tiles, paint colors, and appliances.

We imagined the flow of those four rooms.

We talked to the team that will do the work.

We talked about the budget.

Currently, there are no photos to share or the village's name.

Though one day, when things are more settled, I will share.

The joy it is to dream up and create, the stress brought on by managing elements that go with the process, and the challenge of doing this in a foreign country.

No, I do not speak Italian, but my head is full of sounds not native to my inner voice.

Pasta has been on my plate more than once. 

We drove to Naples with her cousin at the wheel. Beyond insane imagination and with Google map encouraging us, we drove through narrow streets. I prefer to call canyons and roads or riverbeds flowing with people who didn't blink an eye at our big car stuffed with five people. Laurie's cousin John drove down those impossible and most likely illegal city streets, saying, "I'm not comfortable." Meanwhile, I was amused by it in the back middle seat with the perfect unbelievable view of the road less traveled; by car.

...

We will return in Autumn, maybe sooner, to make the space a home. 

 

 

Italy

A few more days in Italy. So much more to say when time permits and the wifi works faster.

 

Old Town

How many hilltop villages does it take before I stop gasping at the sight of them? How many villages have I said I could live here? How many empty old homes are there in the French and Italian countryside?

The dream is to breath life back into these places. To be able to wind them up like a music box and watch daily life return. Farmers, shopkeepers, cafes, cats in the windows, bicycles leaning against the wall, lace curtains billowing over a pot of red geraniums.

Instead my imagination toys with the possibility and admires the soul the still reaches out.

 

A Child Knows What is Best?

 

 

Last week I was at the Park with this Cupcake. Was it cold? Yes! Why isn’t she wearing gloves? Well, if you have ever tried to put gloves on a child you know why.

What Better Way to Visit a New Place

Italy -

In a tucked away place, far from the maddening crowd, down a long narrow road, snugged in the homeland of a friend’s family who has asked me to come to be a sounding board as she creates a vacation home, or as she calls it,

“A womb.”

The small town has opened its arms as if we have been friends for a thousand years. My friend Laurie has a way with people, a key to their hearts, or more so, a ribbon from hers to theirs, and I am included, which is such an extraordinary gift. Absolutely, Laurie never meets a stranger. I want to be more like her generous, open-hearted, and kind. Isn't it easy to walk alongside someone who shows you the sunshine throughout the day?

 

An Early Evening Walk

The few trees that remain on the path by our home create a crown for the sun.

 

The Book of Love - What is Your Love Language?

 

 

The word tablespoon is worn off my Mother's measuring spoons; this is another indicator of how much my Mother cooks. This love language of hers is shared homemade generosity and measured in heaps.

The tattered loved-worn cookbook is filled with tried and true recipes stuffed with sweet mementos, marriage announcements, prayer cards, thank-you notes, Valentine's poems that she penned to my Father, and newspaper clippings of this or that about the family. The cookbook diary and the recipes of our lives are mixed in between the pages that whip up memories of what we have done in the days and years past and what we dined on throughout our lives.

Opening the cookbook, I can smell the aroma of childhood birthday cakes and fried chicken picnics by the creek; I can see the hand that turned sorrow into joy and taste the events that have marked our days. We have the ingredients to make a feast with our lives and the choice to substitute spice for that which is bitter. I grew up on second-helpings of home cooking, believing every bite was good.

Photo: My Mother's 1950s cookbook.

 

What Colors Do You Like to Wear?

 

Stepping back from wearing black was a challenge. Black is comfortable, it goes with any moment, dress up, dress to blend in, or disappear in the crowd. My wardrobe was 95 percent black. Nearly a year ago, I put my black-colored clothing aside. Thanks to Laurie-Annya Linfoot, who encouraged me, I dared to step out of my comfort zone and splash on color. Just to be clear, grey and navy are not black. I am not diving into the box of Crayola crayons, but orange and green are taking the lead in my wardrobe.

What color do you like to wear?

 

Do They Listen? Do They Have Fun?

Sacha, Yann, and Fabrice (Sacha’s childhood friend) went skiing in Vars. Before they left, I, with a bit of anxiety, “Stay on course, please. No off-trail skiing, okay.” Yeah, that fell on deaf ears. (Photo by one of them - Sacha in his old purple and gold ski clothes, a nod to Willows honker.

The Real Parisienne

The authentic Parisienne influencer.

Beret, scarf, espresso, sitting at a cafe at 2 pm,

those iconic chairs, table water and bistro glass, black coin purse on a bistro marble-top table with brass edging,

wrapped sugar cube, newspaper placed to the side,

not a pre-posed photo opt, genuine daily life.

The real deal, and maybe her name is Lucille.

An Impromptu Photo-Opt

 

Close to our apartment in Paris is the small charming Place Flora Tristan. I was walking past it when a bright red Deudeuche (Citroën 2 CV) drove up and illegally parked. I was never so pleased about an illegally parked car because I knew that the red-door bakery facade was behind me; the driver left the engine running, which meant she wasn’t going to be long if I could quickly get to the opposite side of the Deudeuche, a sweet photo was waiting for me. 

If ever I wanted to be wearing a black and white polka-dotted dress, green pumps, a straw hat, and carrying a massive bouquet of daisies, this would have been the day. Or maybe wearing jeans, a long-sleeved navy striped tee-shirt with a beret, I would have jumped into the photo.

Heartfelt

May it never be emptied.

May it have room for more.

❤️

Bringing love.

Giving love.

Responding with love.

Being love.

Learning the language of love.

Putting love in first.

If only that were true with my every action and word.

 

The Ace of Hearts

 

While standing at a rush hour street corner in Paris waiting for the light to turn green,  bicyclists ignored traffic signs, screeching mopeds played Russian roulette, and the coming and going of people with busy lives taking refuge with their headphones and sirens creating nervous tension; I could not be distracted.

Here and now is all I have. This moment. This minuscule larger-than-life moment. This fleeting sensation of life swirling and cement under my worn shoes. The stark winter trees against a brilliant blue sky. The homeless, the garbage truck, the graffiti, and Olivia in her stroller, soft skin and little finger pointing to the pigeons on the ground.

At that moment, a curtain pulled back to a stage of peace. There of all places, an ah-ha moment found me. Seconds later, the light turned green for me to join the movement.

The Ever Changing Light

Last night the sunset was spectacular. I was walking alongside the Tuileries Garden when this came to view. A surprise. I walked faster to catch the photo I wanted: The obelisk, the lion, and the Eiffel Tower at the place de la Concorde. Hundreds of people had the same idea. Squeezing past them, I walked out onto the street and stood on a roadblock; that is what a short person does when they want to see something. In the last photo, I could not capture the pink and lavender sky. The sky was as delicious as cotton candy, wrapped in sweet and delicate ribbons.