Fourth of July
May our freedom lead us to love freely.
no matter the differences
Color, faith, gender, nationality, or status.
Guiding us toward gratitude, understanding, and acceptance
In one another.
04 July 2022
03 July 2022
Summer Evening
The lingering Provençal light
glistening waves lapping softly on pebble beaches
Muted colors against the limestone coast.
The cicadas, the martinet (swift), and the owl singing alongside one another without questioning the time of day
»…is it early morning or the end of day, who cares? »
The harvested lavender, the hum of the bees regret, the summer evening with the blankets falling off the bed.
02 July 2022
Speaking of Blooming
The language of flowers, do you hear their message?
Strong in gentleness, faithful in their offering of beauty,
giving without asking why or how.
Flowers speak a language without words, yet the message sips into the roots of our being.
A flower speaks by showing us how to nurture the soul.
This Zinnia seems to celebrate its uniqueness by wearing a crown,
striking gold at that.
It doesn't seem to mind that it is one of a kind;
It doesn't seem out of place amongst the other flowers in the garden.
Instead, it seems to echo the universal truth by claiming:
Be boldly yourself.
Not your average wallflower
A single, beautiful, red-head.
He loves me; he loves me not.
She loves me; she loves me not.
One mustn't pluck the petals in such a way.
The soul needs to be nurtured.
Down to the root and
Up along the stem of consciousness.
Petal by petal, hand in hand, heart to heart.
You are loved, you are loved, you are loved...
A summer evening gently unfolds, and the last rays of light leave the sky the moon rises, and stars bloom like flowers up above.
Life constantly changes yet remains the same.
Down below, in the silence, in the stillness, in the darkness the garden grows unafraid.
Photos: Zinnias growing in my Mother's garden against my Father's barn - 2009
01 July 2022
30 June 2022
What to Wear When Riding Motorcycle
To protect your head wear a helmet:
Grab a pair of red boxer shorts
pull them down nearly covering your eyes.
Next, take a pair of socks, preferably a matching color to your “helmet”slip them on as gloves.
Not seen in the above photo, though an important part of the rider’s attire,
is to take off the protective chair leg felt pads and add them to your knees and elbows.
Then take your earphones slipping them on so that the head part becomes a shield for your eyes.
You are ready to ride.
Shoes not required inside.
That is how we roll.
29 June 2022
28 June 2022
Another Day
…still here, more or less in the same place. I had no idea that a lung infection could take this long. Little by little, I am feeling better but not 100% myself. Have any of you experienced this before? From your messages, many of you have had asthma or know someone with asthma. I had a blood test and an x-ray. My blood results are promising; my x-ray shows an infection in my left lung. The doctor says it just takes time to rest. I don’t think I’ve ever slept this much.
My mother is doing remarkably well. A few days ago, she returned home; she stayed with my brother Mat and sister-in-law Shelley. My brothers and their wives did a beautiful job caring for my mom, her home, her garden, and her well-being. She is so loved. My brothers had her bathroom and entrance redone to suit her needs. I asked her what she thought, and she said they did an excellent job, I had no doubt. Thank you so much for all your messages regarding my mom and for asking how she is. Indeed, Your attention added to her health.
27 June 2022
A Photo Stirs Memories
Going through a box of photos, I came across this one from the early 80s — my dad, my brothers, and a childhood friend. I sent it in a text to my brothers, and this is what they had to say about the photo:
“I remember that day riding motorcycles with those goofballs! On the way up, dad passed all of the other pickups. I remember looking over at the speedometer. It was at 100! Dean was driving an old yellow Chevy and was the hardest to pass. Marty taped a beer to his handlebar, and it sprayed all over when he opened it! Cussing was so cool to hear.
That was the day dad was photographed jumping that was later put on a t-shirt. 1983 or 4…” Brother Zane (50)
“It’s funny. I just told George (my brother’s son ) the story of that picture last week, hoping to see it again someday. It was a lot of fun; I rode with Dean up there in that yellow c10….” Brother Mark (58)
“Yeah, Rob Stinger took that photo, and I think there may be a version with him in it as well. Classic Marty…always the smart dresser. He also wore willows high school purple football pants that day with dad's lace-up motorcycle boots. He made such an impression on Stinger. He also tells the story of the beer tapped to the crossbar. We cherished that day as it was the first and the last time that group ever rode as one. “ Brother Mat (60)
Indeed, my dad and my brother Marty would have something to say. Unfortunately, they are not here, but man, their memories live on.
I thank "Family love" for that.
26 June 2022
French la Vie 2023 Dates
Hello!
I am a Franco-American married to a Frenchman and have lived and breathed the French lifestyle and brocantes for over thirty years in Provence.
I am passionate about old things and enjoy sharing my experience and connections with others. When you come along on a French la Vie, you will meet like-minded people who create with and collect antiques. We will be inspired by visiting private homes, shops, and studios in the Provençal countryside. Meeting the French in their intimate, off-the-beaten path to shop and dive deeper into the French lifestyle.
This truly is a one-of-a-kind journey.
French la Vie Brocante
Dates for 2023
Brocante adventures in Provence.
Four guests - maximum:
April 18-25th
May 3-10th
May 24th-31st
June 27th-July 4th... Sold Out
September 5th- 12th
September 26th - October 3rd
October 12th- October 19th Sold Out
Includes:
Eight days and seven nights
Private room shared bath.
In my home.
Includes to and from transport from Marseille.
It begins on the first day at 11 am and ends at 8 am on the last day.
All transport within our stay.
All breakfasts, cafe breaks, and dinners.
(lunches are not included, though; we will dine together in my favorite places.)
Visits to private homes, studios, shops, and brocantes
At least 19 various addresses.
Guidance translations, negotiating,
And with packing and sending purchases home.
---
Does not include
Travel insurance
Airfare
Health insurance
Lunches
Nor packing materials or shipping costs.
Cost
4000 Euros
2000 Euros non-refundable deposit
And final 2000 euros non-refundable deposit a month before starting date.
We will wander through villages often on cobbled streets,
though we will not be climbing steep hills,
nor thousands of stone steps.
Nevertheless, you must be able to keep up with the group.
Please bring your smile and positive attitude to share with others.
We will stop by two Provençal markets that will fill your senses!
Color, fragrance, a landscape of texture and taste.
Honey, Lavender, Provencal tablecloths, Cigalles, Olives, Linens, Baskets, Wine, Cheeses...
Private Tailored Groups
If you would like to organize a private group, it is possible too.
No matter the size of your group.
I can create a unique tailored group for couples, a group up to six, and for larger groups,
I have teamed up with Red Shed Tours with their Provençal and Brittany travels.
One must be in good physical shape and able to walk and carry their purchases on average 5000 steps daily.
We will not be climbing steep hills,
nor thousands of stone steps.
Nevertheless, you must be able to keep up with the group.
Please bring your smile and positive attitude to share with others.
Sending your Treasures back Home
Whether your purchases are souvenirs filling your suitcase, boxes full of smalls, or home furnishings
We can help you manage to send your parcels back home.
We have plenty of options at various price points depending on your needs.
We have connections for shipping boxes to containers.
Nothing is too big, too small, and nothing is impossible except sending the Eiffel Tower.
For more information or questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with me at:
coreyamaro@aol.com
and or follow me on
25 June 2022
Finally Feeling my Feet on the Ground
It has been a rough several days with a lung infection and Asthma. But this morning I feel I have made a turn! I want to get up and get going. But I will be mindful of the week behind me and give myself this day to rest with grace. Even though one of my favorite brocantes is happening as I type. I know I am feeling better when my adrenaline is negotiating with my common sense. Health, and the freedom of choice is everything without it the road ahead can be insurmontable.
Thank you for your prayers and messages this last few days xxx
This photo was taken last week when Chelsea the wee ones and I went to a Bubble Pop Art Show.
Gabriel didn’t like it. It was overwhelming to his senses. The music, the light, the sets… I found it fabulous but through his tender eyes it was overpowering sensory overload.
24 June 2022
How Long Does it Take...
Fifth day.
When I woke up the new day felt promising.
A happy rush flowed over me.
Deception soon followed when I got up or tried to talk.
Exhaustion in five minutes - with relief back in bed.
Thank you for your prayers, messages, concerns...
My posts might just be photos until I have more strength.
The flowers above I took last summer while trying a portrait lens as you can see the flowers are disoriented, some of the stems do not connect to the blooms.
A representation of how I feel.
23 June 2022
Still in Bed
The wonders of taking a bath, washing one’s hair,
then slipping into a freshly pressed night dress.
Renewal.
But boy did that zap me.
Each day is better than the previous day.
Thank you for your messages and prayers.
Plus, I am sorry to hear that many of you suffer from asthma too. Does it ever go away?
22 June 2022
21 June 2022
20 June 2022
Do You Believe This?
Isn’t this a lovely thought?
Could I think maybe grandchildren?
And people I will love, and that hopefully will love me in return.
19 June 2022
Thirty Years Ago
And Yann’s take -
Happy 30th Birthday, Sacha!
Sacha, you make my heart swell with love,
You amaze me with how wonderful you are,
and my arms ache to hug you today!
18 June 2022
Heatwave in France and Knee Socks.
On a blistering hot summer day
Gabriel decided to wear knee socks.
Because that is what three-year-olds do.
We watched a group of men jumping into the canal Saint Martin. It was very tempting, the splash of the water, the hot sun on the pavement, the lack of air… tempting.
We tried to stay cool.
We had ice cream.
France has a heat wave. As I grew up in the Sacramento Valley, hot days in the summer were very common. I wouldn’t say I liked those days back then, and I certainly don’t want them now. The only difference - my cousin’s pool - And that was a big difference, a wonderful difference, the memory-filled highlight of summer days.
But heat waves in France are uncomfortable, especially in Paris.
But not if you are three with knee socks and a teeter-totter.
And cherries.
17 June 2022
What Makes a Person French?
What makes a person French?
What makes a person an American?
Is it because of birth in that country?
I was born in the USA and lived there for 29 years. I have now lived in France for 35 years. I became French a few years ago, so I am Franco-American.
When I first came to France, I spoke maybe five words of French. Back then, most French people I met did not speak English. It was torturous going to the grocery store, getting a haircut, or at a dinner party; living in France with only five French words in my pocket was maddening. It was hard to fit in without speaking the language. Immediately, I understood what it was like to be a foreigner and how one can be perceived without speaking the native language.
It was only natural that I should speak French as I was living in France. Learning a new language, especially later in life, was a challenge. It was as if I was climbing Mount Everest in sneakers.
When going to a shop, I would ask if they spoke English, and I would receive a firm, « Non. » the first words I learned had to do with food. I carried a pocket-size dictionary because buying sour milk and not cream does not taste the same with tea.
Over time, with trial and error, tears in patience, I began to speak and be understood. Not perfectly, but well enough. And then a shift came into place; the French began to speak English to me the minute I spurted a French word.
Years ago, I would have kissed their feet and hugged their faces. I would’ve talked 1 million words a minute to have a conversation in English. But now, I continue to speak in French, refusing to speak in English unless their English is superior to my French. The challenge of Mount Everest taught me endurance, I am not on the top and never will be, but I am not surrendering now. Maybe pride is in my way?
Yes, I have an enormous accent.
Does an accent dictate that you don’t belong?
I am often asked, » Where are you from?« and it usually continues that I am not a tourist, that I have an accent “comme meme,” and do I like living here?
The simple answer is I was born in California. But it never is that simple; thirty minutes later, the person knows my entire history that I am an American living in France bla bla blah.
I am a curiosity.
As Sting sings, “Be yourself no matter what they say. Oh, I am an alien; I am a legal alien.”
In a time when refugees and immigrants are in the world’s conversation, it is a poignant question. Nationality, citizenship, birthright, economics, protection, fear…
It is all wrapped in a lump.
Language can define us, as well as customs and our color, which can be an uneven judge.
At the brocante, I asked how much for the French flag. The dealer said, « I cannot sell it to you because you’re not French, and the flag has to remain in France. » I smiled and said, « I live here and am French. » And before he could say, «But you have an accent. » I answered, “I have an accent; isn’t it charming and deceiving?”
He sold me the flag.
16 June 2022
The French Dining Thing
During the French la Vie retreats, we do more than just go to brocantes…
Not only do we fill our suitcases, boxes, and whatever else we can stuff antiques into, we dine, oh boy, do we dine! France has an abundance of everything and delicious food culture, but you know that.
Grand Marnier soufflé, chocolate eclairs, tarte Tatin, brioche, Opéra, Paris-Brest, macarons, pain perdu, apricot tartlette, mousse au chocolat…
One sweet thing after another.
Most of the time, the groups who come would rather shop than eat; I kid you not. Sometimes, going to a restaurant, which is planned, is changed by a group vote to grab a bite and go on to the next brocante.
How many brocantes can we stuff in one day?
How many delicious meals can we forego to do so?
None. We do it all.
Drinking rose while at the brocante.
When we grab something to eat, trust me when I say it is still delicious, remarkable, and worth every single little bit, even when it’s just pizza freshly made out of a pizza truck with a wood-burning stove.
The cafe scene is a must. Seriously, how can you come to France and not sit at a café? But there are cafés, and then there are cafés, and when you live here, you know which ones to go to. I like the ones that still have tablecloths on their tables and have that old romantic atmosphere or the straightforward, untouched ones that make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.
Yes, that is one of the most beautiful champagne buckets I have ever seen, filled with glass wine stoppers that look like ice cubes. So original.
The food culture in France doesn’t just stop with the food. It includes all the elements that go along with dining. The tablecloth, the grand serviettes, the faïence dishes, silverware, tabletop decor… The list goes on and on. The tabletop decor can be found at the brocante, just as I have said about the beaucoup, beaucoup French antique linens that could cover the planet if laid out. In France, it is not unusual to have an apéritif dish and entrée dish, dinner dish, a salad dish, a cheese dish, and a dessert dish, and that is for one meal. Then times that amount of dishes by centuries of French cuisine: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If laid out, antique French dishes could cover the solar system.
French antique blue confit pot.
You might think I’m exaggerating, but I think the tabletop decor and France could cover the universe. At least the Brocantes are loaded with dishes, glassware, silverware, and everything else that involves dining.
Food lovers in France go way back.
And stemware, I have to say something about French antique stemware…
At the Brocante, if you took all the stemware lined up, there might not be a wave left in the oceans.
And we won’t even talk about French wine.
We are fortunate to dine in private homes during the French la Vie. When I travel, I always wonder what is behind the door, if only I could go into someone’s house and see how they live —well, during the French la Vie, that comes true. Everyone who comes finds a highlight: To go into people's homes and share life, even if it’s just for a little bit with the French.
Am I tempting you to join me?
15 June 2022
And Now He is Three
(Text and photo by Chelsea)
When you have a child, you inherit a visual gauge of life as it shows how fast time goes by and how a child can develop, grow and become. The visible gauge subtly reminds us to reflect, be grateful, and be aware of the time we have had.
Three years how can it be?
14 June 2022
Superhero Brocanteurs
The AMAZING FOUR, Patricia Conte-Lynch, Barbara Willis, @Gloria McKinnon, and Vintage Supply Co. are True brocanteurs! Three of them endured not having their suitcases for the ENTIRE TRIP, one of them had their flight canceled, losing a day of our adventures together, we endured a heatwave, a van that wouldn’t start after dinner far from home base, and yet none of them lost their focus or joy! Brocante Trueheart's! Also, a shout out to Valarie Gerlach Jolly for introducing me to Patrica, Barbara, and Jeanette.
I have found many beautiful things at the brocante, but nothing compares to the joy I have seen in sharing this experience with others.
13 June 2022
12 June 2022
11 June 2022
French la Vie… Good Friends, Good Finds, and a Crazy Goof
We are doing the brocante scene with other passionate brocanteurs and buzzing conversation about what we have found, what we have seen, what we have missed, what we have learned, and where we are going. It is refreshing and deep gratitude to share after years of covid restrictions, aggressive politics, gun violence, and war: a breath, a natural breath of fresh air.
Photo by Patricia, who is with me on the French la Vie.
Barbara and Gloria
This is the fourth time joining me on the French la Vie.
I think that means that they LOVE the brocante
Maybe just maybe as much as I do.
AND they must like hanging out with me.
No, I did not bribe them to join me.
Jeanette and Patricia
These ladies, the four of them, literally can shop without dropping.
Our van was one stuffed potato. Packages everywhere:
Under our seats, on our laps, bulging out of the trunk, no room to move your legs, nor turn your head...
Happy, happy, happy place smack dab in the middle of the van stuffed with brocante heaven.
These women have shops and or give classes using antique textiles.
this is how they wanted their French la Vie Adventure to be:
Brocante FULL Throttle.
I am thrilled to step on the pedal at full speed.
And then our driver finds E.T. to bring us back to reality.
Good laughs.
good friends,
good food,
full van,
deep sleep,
ready for tomorrow.
10 June 2022
09 June 2022
08 June 2022
Life Continues
Do you see three loved ones?
Gabriel is so full of intention not to drop falls or spills. His strawberry ice cream is calculated and we wonder how is that?
Very soon he will be three.
A boy, a stick and the ocean of possibilities.
Look who is standing. One step leads to another.
07 June 2022
Cherry Jam Memory: A True Story
Yesterday, my friend Arnelle and I picked cherries as I started to make the jam I remembered a post I wrote about making cherry jam years ago, 12 years ago to be exact! Oh, man. Do any of you remember this post?
Wish me luck.
Photo and True story by: Corey Amaro
How to Make Burnt Cherry Jam:
Pick 25 pounds of cherries from your neighbor's tree.
Buy 15 pounds of sugar, and carry it home for the exercise.
Sterilize fifty-plus jars with their matching lids,
Let them air dry on crisp clean linens on the kitchen counter.
Pit the cherries, don't worry about your cherry-stained hands and nails (lemon juice and nail polish will correct the mess.)
Do not use pectin- Cook the jam slowly, stirring now and then for several hours.
In the middle of cherry, jam-making decide to go to the market to buy fresh produce for dinner.
Ask a seventeen-year-old son, who knows diddly-squat about making jam, to turn it every five minutes or so.
Don't hear him say he is studying and cannot be sure to turn the cherry jam.
Trust him, even though he is telling you not to.
Go to the market.
An hour and a half later, call home to check on the cherry jam...
Listen to your son tell you that it is sticking to the bottom, and smells like it is burnt.
Have your mouth hit the ground alongside your shopping bags? Cry, "WHAT?"
Come home to a perfumed kitchen.
Look in the two large pots and notice the burgundy red cherries are now black.
Grab a wooden spoon, and stir the jam: Feel that the bottom of the pan as if it were competing with rough pavement.
Cry.
Cry again! Then get mad at your son, even though you are mad at yourself.
Put some cherry jam in a bowl, and run over to Annie's house. Have her taste the jam.
Watch your friend lie between her teeth.
Listen to her idea, "Don't throw it away. Bake something with it, it might surprise you."
Go home and bake a cake, add burnt cherry jam as the filling.
Serve after dinner with cold whip cream.
Have the family and guests eat it.
Cross your fingers that your guests don't die.
Listen to them ask for seconds.
Shake your head in amazement.
When your son asks, "What is the filling?"
Pitifully respond, "Burnt Cherry Jam."
06 June 2022
Mona Lisa's Lessons
Photos and Text by: Corey Amaro
The Louvre has a painting that attracts the world, it is a show stopper, it is. The small painting is of a woman, it hangs alone on an enormous wall. Directly across from it is a massive painting, the size of a large house with a million people in it.
The contrast alone is worth a peek.
Though few notice the striking difference.
Mona Lisa smiles back at them. If I were the other paintings at the Louvre I would be jealous.
My cousins and I went to the Louvre, through the side door where there is never a line.
You are allowed to take photos, as long as you do not use a flash.
McDonald's is one of the restaurants located underneath. I wonder what Marie Antoinette would say about that? "McDonald's in *my house? Pink milkshakes?"
Mona... she just smiles, though no one knows for sure what she is thinking about.
Leonardo da Vinci painted a woman without jewels, lace, or notable wealth. She is painted soberly, frontal, with smokey eyes, and straight hair is worn down.
Mona masters the marketing game. With her hands folded on her lap, she looks straight forward, and the corners of her mouth go up. The paparazzi do not impress her, she has remained the same without botox or stripping.
An art a few starlets have yet to learn.
A never-ending crowd constantly gathers around Mona Lisa. They barely look at the painting that they have come far to see. Instead, they weave through the crowd, lift their cameras above their head and snap a shot. Then bringing their camera down for a closer view to see if they got it, if so they walk away.
Wherever they stand, Mona looks straight into their eyes and holds the poise.
Most people who come to see the Mona Lisa stand longer in the line waiting to come in than they do in front of her painting.
McDonald's knows that secret...fast food.
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Mona Lisa knows all about that.
"Do you not see that, among human beauties, it is a very beautiful face and not rich ornaments that stop passers-by?… Do you not
see beautiful young people diminish their
excellence with excessive ornamentation?…"
-- Leonardo da Vinci
see beautiful young people diminish their
excellence with excessive ornamentation?…"
-- Leonardo da Vinci
If we give time to unfold what would we see?
I stood in the Lourve, watching people taking quick snapshots of the Mona Lisa with intrigue.
Photo after photo, one after another, click and go.
Slam, bam, thank you, Mona.
In the rush, it felt gross.
I felt like a victim of my lack of culture.
I should stop and pay attention more often, hold time in stillness as something divine in itself.
The Louvre is powerfully beautiful.
I am saturated in a heartbeat every time. Even though I warn myself before I step foot inside to regard one thing in-depth, such as brush stroke, or to find the signature, or find the hidden spot in the paintings, as a way to help me to stay focused. I am nevertheless saturated.
Beauty is powerful, killing me softly.
So we take it in as we can.
A little bit at a time.
Seeing without knowing.
Holding out for a long shot view,
Gratitude for the glimpse into a world waiting for us.
She smiles.
She waits.
She is there.
Beauty can escape us simply by not waving a flag.
Though when I slow down
beauty blooms again and again,
layer after layer,
peeling back to the truth.
Simplicity and facing one another.
Mona Lisa
1503 -1506
20 7/8 inches by 30 inches, oil painting on wood.
Painted by: Leonardo da Vinci in Florence, Italy.
Presently in the Louvre.
Holding Mona Lisa in a freeze-frame and not in one's inner eye.
Art, beauty, and a poetic lifestyle take time.
They are not fast food for the hungry soul that does not take time to digest.
05 June 2022
Oz in Provence
Down the road where I live there are fields upon little fields of poppies.
Not California golden poppies, but red poppies.
Poppies are spontaneous.
Their colorful petals spread out like a picnic blanket over the fields.
One can guess but never be certain where poppies will appear.
This year I saw my first red poppy on February 27th.
I like to take note of things like that.
In Provence, there is a saying that says, that the first time you see or do something of the season, you are to make a wish.
First poppy, first strawberry, first homegrown tomato...
Do you make your wish on the first star of the night?
Poppies in Provence, are one of the first splashes of spring color. Later will come the purple lavender, and yellow sunflowers.
If you are lucky, you might see all three against the Provencal blue sky.
That is when you know you are in OZ.
Menu Translations
Translated menus in French to English are always a favorite. Certainly, they remind me of how my French must sound when I speak. I am going to start collecting favorite translations I should have started years ago when translation apps weren't available and fewer people spoke English because their translations were off the chart funny.
The menu reads, "Chocolate cake with runny heart, and a coop of vanilla ice cream."
04 June 2022
How to Dress Like a French Woman
How to Dress Like a French Woman:
-First and foremost, throw away uptight.
-Of course, own one of everything in black, plus know the fashionable color of the season, and have it in your wardrobe too: This year it is citrus colors with hints of bright pink.
-Learn how to tie a scarf.
-Stuff your pockets with confidence in your beauty, and walk knowing you are worth a beaucoup bucks.
-Smoke without shame.
-Wear matching sexy, jamais boring, ni basic white, undergarments.
-Dress in a flouncy floral 1970s dress with tennis shoes.
-Have a "day" perfume and an "evening" perfume, make it your calling card.
-Dress for the occasion, wear leather pants to the grocery store, and always have champagne in your refrigerator.
-Celebrate your femininity, breasts are more than two lumps.
-Add a twist to the ordinary: Jeans, lace top, leopard print high heels. Do not be afraid to express yourself.
-Aim for an imperfect detail, matchy-matchy is too catalog. French woman have the art of negligence in their style.
-Sit straight, hold your head up, guard your tongue, and admire other women.
P.S.
The scarf thing, if you cannot tie it without stress, just unbutton another button and call it a day.
____________________________
03 June 2022
Spent the afternoon soaking up Babou and Papioca! When we said goodbye Gabriel cried and hugged me tightly,
“Vavie why are you going?”
Chelsea and family were leaving for vacation.
I spoke softly to Gabriel,
”We can be happy and sad. Happy cause you are going on vacation and sad to say goodbye.”
with that we hugged.
Love feels so good xxx
02 June 2022
When You Come to Provence
If you come to Provence take time to be time to let Provence get under your skin and into your heart. Provence is a place to wander, taste the countryside, soak in the sounds, and follow your thoughts until they are just a mountain of softness and valleys of delight.
Provence is spread out like a quilt of many colors starting with the sky and everything between it and the blue sea, from the olive trees, vineyards, tiled roofs, confit pots, cigales, and rosé, and rows of lavender and stone walls.
Let me lead the way come I will give you a key to open the source of sweetness that is Provence.
Opening hideaway places, and visiting private homes and artist's studios.
Discovering the history behind antiques, culture, and the Provencal lifestyle.
With time to wander in places worthy to paint and feel poetic.
Sip Champagne in the middle of the afternoon while the cicadas sing.
Impromptu picnics, and moments to just be in the moment.
To go to as many brocantes as you would want without worrying about how to take your purchases home.
Meals with my friends, meals at restaurants, and at my home, where the feast is friendship.
To be inspired.
Throughout every moment to be surrounded by happy places.
To feel at home in a foreign land.
Where history connects you to a never-ending story.
Under a tiled roof, comfy-cozy wonder goodness.
Transportation provided, I wish it were this,
with a linen canopy and fluffy, oversized pillows to soften the bumps.
Transportation so you can enjoy the scenery without reading a map, or missing a turn.
May Poppies,
June Lavender,
September Grapes,
October, pumpkins,
Everyday beauty to discover.
My favorite time of the year is anytime there is a brocante.
I am planning 2023 dates for the French la Vie.But first, if you have a group that wants to join me (four people)or if you want to do a private couples visit let me knowso I can set the dates for you before planning other dates.
And if you are in Provence just come by and say hi!
01 June 2022
French la Vie Brocante Adventures
FRENCH la Vie dates for 2022 and very soon 2023
One place remains open for 2022
The dates for the French la Vie 2022 filled quickly there is one place that has come up.
We are going to have fun and I bet you won’t want to go home.
xxx
The dates for the FRENCH la Vie 2022
I look forward to sharing the love of antiquing and more adventures with you!
April 21st - 27th, 2022 FULL
May 24th - 31st, 2022 FULL
June 10-14th, 2022 FULL
September 6th - 13th 2022. one place remains
October 6-13th 2022 FULL
Dates for 2023 will be announced soon.
4000 Euros for one week in Provence includes:
Private room shared bath.
Breakfast and dinners included.
Helping with packing purchases and arranging to post.
Transport to and from the airport, and our travels within France.
2000 Euros non-refundable deposit to secure your place.
The final non-refundable payment is one month before arrival
Dates for 2023 will be announced within the week.
For more information email me at
31 May 2022
An Announcement: My Nephew is Going to be Married!
My beloved brother Marty and my sister in law's youngest child, Jack is marrying his
long time love Jordan in October 2022. I am so very happy for both of them.
Wedding bells.
My brother Marty certainly is smiling.
30 May 2022
Twins in Antique Nightdresses
We found a pair of recently dyed navy antique nightdresses.
Mine is in cotton and Cindy's is in linen.
Nightdresses in white are very easy to find at every brocante.
I wish someone would dare and pay me to find 500 in a month.
What makes these two so unusual is the oversize eyelet sleeves.
We bought and modeled them.
Cindy is such a fun-loving person modelling is my new gig.
29 May 2022
Living the Joy of Shared Happiness
How many brocantes did we go to each day?
Three or more.
How many villages did we visit?
At least two a day.
Do you have to buy to enjoy the brocantes or join you?
Only if you want to there isn't any obligation. If you come with your group we can tailor it to your desires.
How many are in a group?
Maximum four per group unless it is a private group.
Do you have any dates available?
Two people backed out in September so I have two openings
September 6th to the 13th, 2022.
Dates for 2023 will be announced soon.
My new friends.
I am going to miss this bunch!
They loved the brocante maybe more than me!
No, just teasing. But seriously close.
(Photo by Cynthia.)
Why not have oysters at the brocante.
As long as I do not have to have oysters that is fine with me.
Yann was our chauffeur! My hero.
Even considering the delicious lunch was three hours long, we are having an ideal time!
Though all of us preferred to be out and about. The extra-long lunch was due to Mother's Day in France.
Thankfully, the meal was worth the wait, and the company was like being with old friends.
xxx
28 May 2022
Filled Full
Our senses are filled full
with inspiration
creativity
new and renewed friendships
shared meals
discovery
learning
simply by experiencing Provence through the lens of the brocante.
to travel by this means is to engage in conversation
by holding an old object in one's hands and asking
how much?
then the story unfolds and often a connection is made.
I am so grateful that the brocante dealers I have met over the last thirty years living in France
have opened their arms, homes, studios, warehouses, and addresses
for me to share with my blog readers and those who join me on the French la Vie.
The French la Vie would be just another sightseeing/buying experience if it wasn't for the connections I have made at the brocante and if those wonderful friends didn't open their hearts and friendship to me to share with you.
I am grateful for the brocante journey!
27 May 2022
Poppy Stop
Poppies in France
come in May
I knew we would find a field
and we did.
After poppies come the lavender
and sunflowers.
I have so many photos to share of our brocante adventures
but little time to post and write.
But I will soon
xx
26 May 2022
French la Vie Brocante Bug Bites
serious situation
brocante bugs are attacking
buyers are unaware.
refreshments for those who have been bitten
so that they might honor their new friend.
instigators
We met at a brocante over 25 years ago.
`
Bitten badly
happiness is a side effect
so are wonder and awe
years of living with thé brocante bite
It still feels new and going strong.
25 May 2022
24 May 2022
French la Vie
Our French la Vie Brocante journey started off with a perfect day. We visited four places from Marseille to our home.
The women feel like I have known them for years but have literally just met. That is what is so awesome about this experience
is the bond that is created for a passion of seeing beauty in the ordinary, and sharing the joy in discovering history and culture while at the brocantes.
We came to our home and each guest settled into their rooms.
The sweetest compliment, "If today were the only day of our time together it would already be more than I expected."
Here is to showing these four lovely women a wonderful week. I am so honoured to show them my haunts.
Now off to bed as the day comes early and we have many people and places to go!
Follow my stories on Instagram or French la Vie Facebook for more photos.
Pottery and roses from my friend Mo.
23 May 2022
our home is ready to welcome our guests
the roses are fading too soon
tbe light in the dining room won’t click on
our fridge is full of French fresh
and the champagne is chillin’
beds are made scented with lavender
our visits are planned
the van is ready
my head is hitting the pillow and will wake to the start of a wonderful long awaited journey
with Michelle, Terri, Dina and Cynthia.
French la Vie!
22 May 2022
Recharged and Ready for the French la Vie
Yesterday we spent the day with our friends Laurie-Annya and Ian. A wonderful day just hanging out in Cassis the time went by happily as we recharged our batteries, danced on the square, went out on the blue sea, and watched fireworks light up the sky.
Thank you for the photo Laurie-Annya!
21 May 2022
Third Time Around
When I was a teenager I found box of baby girl clothes tucked away in the hallway closet. I asked my mother who they belong to but before she could respond I already knew the answer. Those baby clothes had been tucked away since I was a baby. As the oldest and only daughter my mother kept those clothes assuming her next baby might be a girl. But four boys later those clothes were forgotten.
When I came to France I brought my baby clothes with me. Chelsea wore them and now Olivia is wearing them too.
20 May 2022
Brocante Count down----
The countdown to the French la Vie brocante adventure starts on Tuesday! Hasn't it been a long time coming?
Four women will arrive ready for the hunt, when they leave another four arrive.
I told them to pack light. That this isn't a fashion show so bring as little as possible.
I have been getting things in order: The bedrooms, the itinerary, the grocery list...
The brocante, the hunt, the fun, the reason to be,
is the easy part.
Yann is taking time off to drive and be my assistant.
He is superman!
19 May 2022
18 May 2022
Readers Photos Shared
I love when people send me photos of what they have created or used the old paper that I have sold or given to them.
"Corey,Well, after years of having those wonderful French papers you gave me, I FINALLY found a “card” pattern (most cards aren’t 10 1/2 inches X 14 inches!)I like them well enough to use them. The background and the foreground(of course) are from the papers; the 2 ladies in the middle ground are copies of dress patternsthat my mother kept; the rest are things found here and there. Thank you. Rachel"
"Hi, Corey,
I promised that I would send you a photo if I did anything with the French stamps you sent me. I used them in a display of things on my dining room sideboard with some old letters and other things I love. Stamps are little works of art and the older ones are so evocative of an era and a place. Thank you so much! ...
Love,
Debbie"
🌸🌸🌸
This belongs to Corey Amaro all rights reserved. 2005-2022
French la Vie Creative Journeys in France. Please join me in 2020 to learn more click here
French La Vie started in 2005, I have the "Brocante Bug" which means antiquing is my cure, France can do me no wrong when it comes to treatment ° 32 years living in France with my French Husband that I met while dancing in San Francisco ° Two children, now in their late-twenties, amour et joie ° Come join our journey either vicariously through my blog, or on a French La Vie Week Retreat in Provence °
My Online Brocante Shop
How I Met My French Husband
Provencal Vacation Rental
Provencal Vacation Rental
French la Vie Creative Journeys in France. Please join me in 2020 to learn more click here
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Our Apartment in Paris
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Our Home in Cassis
Cassis