French la Vie

Guest Post: Kathy Benusa

Write a guest post for Corey’s blog? 

My inner critic was quick to respond,

“No way, it told me, that’s too scary. It’s out of your comfort zone.”

Totally true, I thought.

 

 

Then, I casually mentioned the idea to my other half, Randy, the best person I know and my high school sweetheart. He thought it was a fabulous idea.  I kicked the idea around for a few more days starting to warm to it.  When I shared it with my life coach friend, Sherri, she was “beyond, beyond” that this amazing opportunity had presented itself to me. 

Next, the quote by Shannon L. Alder came across my path.

“Life always begins with one step outside of your comfort zone.”

At this point, the Universe was dropping hints and encouragement right and left. 

So, friends, here I am.

 

 

My name is Katherine (Kathy) Benusa.  I live in Everett, Washington, in the US, in a town of nearly 114,000 people. I was born and raised here.  My parents and brother live nearby.

We have chosen to live in the historic part of town because of our love for all that has history and a story. It is a lovely neighborhood of tree-lined streets and beautiful gardens. Perfect for walking. It borders on an inlet of Puget Sound.  Our home was built in 1916. Even though we have remodeled, it still retains its beauty and character.  It is my sanctuary of peace and calm.  It’s filled with treasures we have collected, along with pieces that make me happy and speak to my heart.  It is a one-of-kind.

 

 

 

Our gardens I designed and further add to the tranquility and calm. 

 

This is my home.

 

After teaching for 38 years, it finally felt right to move into retirement.  It was a difficult decision to make.  I was great at my job, loved being a part of something bigger than myself - a respected teacher, colleague, and good friend to those around me.  At the time, I thought it might be difficult transitioning into retirement. Being an educator was such an important part of my life for so many years. I shouldn’t have spent a minute on that worry. I haven’t regretted my decision for one moment. The rewards have continued to follow me even though I’ve left the classroom.  It was an amazing career, one that I hold near and dear to my heart.  I would choose it again if I had it to do over.

 

 

 

We have had the good fortune to build a vacation home in eastern Washington in the town of Chelan.  Much smaller than Everett, with a population of around 3,500, it has that small-town feel.  It sits at the end of a 55-mile lake that is fed from the Stehekin River at the base of the Cascade Mountains. Once primarily an apple and cherry growing region, it Is now dotted with wineries where some of those orchards once stood.

The climate is opposite of home, hot in summer, cold in winter vs. the mild year-round temperatures of western Washington. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is a blessed getaway that sits atop a hill, a bit out of town, with a spectacular view. We designed the inside of our home with memorable snippets from our travels.  A lovely floor to ceiling mural painted by the artist, Andy Eccleshall, ushers one up the stairs.  It is a collection of places we have visited and love, creatively meshed into one scene.  Our bedroom has a mural of Blenheim Palace in England. Andy painted it from a picture we took whilst on vacation.  Our entry floor is a point on point black and white marble tile as a nod to a 400- year-old bed and breakfast we stayed in years ago in the town of Winchcombe Oxfordshire, England. Our gardens in Chelan also offer peace and tranquility and compliment the breath-taking, ever-changing view of the lake, hills, and farmland. I have loved planning every detail of a trip, finding special, out of the ordinary things to do and unique places to stay.

 

 

 

In the fall of 2019, we planned a trip to London and the southern part of England in Cornwall to visit Poldark Country.

 

 

 

 

In addition, after being a long-time reader (and fan) of Corey and her blog, I decided it was time for Randy and me to take a trip to France to have a stay in the “house next door” in Provence and end our trip at Corey and Yann’s Paris apartment-perfection! It was one of the best decisions we ever made-totally amazing and unforgettable! 

 

Having Corey and Yann introduce us to the heart and soul of Provence was pure magic.  We couldn’t have imagined the adventures we would have and were unaware of the delights that waited around each and every corner. We treasured time with their gracious, talented artisan friends who welcomed us into their homes with open arms. We explored the elegant and the rustic of Provence, from a beautiful hotel to a crumbling chateau, to a hike high above the sea. We visited an extraordinary museum and stumbled upon a heavenly choir singing in a church. We experienced markets and unique shops.

We learned about French history and culture and listened to stories that entertained and made us laugh. Corey and Yann patiently answered our questions. Together, we explored the countryside and villages-all a photographer’s dream.

 

 

We learned about honey-from the hive to the local shop. We ate in quaint restaurants, had lunches with the perfect glass of Rose’ and in the evening, dining on beautiful meals prepared by Corey, while listening to music, all in the glow of candlelight. Randy and Yann walked to the patisserie each morning for croissants. The house next door and the charming bells of Saint-Zacharie welcomed us home each night.  We loved “living” next door. Corey and Yann shared so much more of Provence than I can say.  They are genuine, lovely people with enthusiasm and heart. We were spoiled and happy.

 

Exploring the French brocantes filled my heart with joy and renewed the love I have for aging fancies. I am smiling right now at the very thought.  There are treasures I left behind. They are calling to me to bring them home and I will.  So many memories to cherish and hold dear. 

Here’s to friends!

Thank you, dear Corey, for the honor and privilege of writing a piece for your blog.

With love,

Kathy

 

I leave you with a quote by St. Therese.

“May today there be peace within.  May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.  May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others.  May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.  May you be content with yourself just the way you are.  Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise, and love.  It is there for each and every one of us.”

Taking the Step Towards Kindness

         Photo taken through a window in Paris last night

Text by Adrian Michael on Instagram 

 

 

Guest Post: Diogenes

 

“Walking in LA, nobody walks in LA. LA is a great big freeway, put a hundred down and buy a car.”  If you’re anywhere near my age you know those lyrics and nothing could be further from the truth.  If you ask someone here where they’re from, they’ll tell you which neighborhood, never just LA.  In reality, this is a city of unique neighborhoods, many of them totally walkable with their own main streets, cafes, little shops, housing styles, and identities.  Atwater Village, West Hollywood, Larchmont Village, Brentwood, Frogtown, Santa Monica, Old Town Pasadena, Franklin Village - the list goes on forever.

I live in West Hollywood. It’s in the low 80s today, so I thought we could go exploring together. Let’s walk down my street and get some coffee first.

 

 

 

 

 

There are so many little cafes to choose from, they line the streets, but this one is right here in front of us.  You’ll like the service!  And the 70s disco music playing in the background...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After an espresso, I thought we’d hit up the local parks together.  Since we’ve been dealing with Covid, I've been walking more and I've discovered we have parks!  Lots, apparently!  We may as well be outside. Let’s head down SMB aka Santa Monica Boulevard.

 

 

 

 

OK first up West Hollywood Park.  There are rotating art exhibits that come and go, but it’s always interesting. And check out those ficus trees.  That's what happens to those little office trees in pots when they are set free.

 

 

 

 

 

We’ve seen some art, but it’s getting warm out, so let’s head a couple of minutes west to Norma Triangle Park, a teaspoon of green in the middle of all the homes and condos here, and a 10-minute walk from my place.  It has a cool fountain and some benches for us to hang out.

 

 

 

 

I also wanted to show you the redone cactus garden that looks so impressive from the street, but that’s another mile or so west in the next neighborhood.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We can cut through the Beverly Gardens trail and stay cool. It’s next to Santa Monica Boulevard.  Here below is the cactus garden, which I've read was created in 1934 and updated last year with mature specimens.  And two long blocks to the north is the park where George Michael was caught "in flagrant" - but wait I don't want to gossip! ;-)  It's the park with the fountains and turtles below, named Will Roger's Park.  A relaxing place to sit with a book.

 

 

 

Finally, we've walked a couple of miles now, so we can Uber back over to my favorite, a city park on the roof of a 4-story retail building, a park created in exchange for extra building height I’ve heard.  You can bring your dogs, cats, coffee, or whatever up with you and hang out.  Everyone does!  And at night they light the candles and you have a view of the hills.  And at night, the neighborhood is filled with creatives.  So come visit when all this is over, the lattes are on me.

 

 

 

 

-------------------------------------------SIDENOTE---

 

 

A few peeks into Diogenes beautiful home:

 

Back in 2013, I had the pleasure of meeting Diogenes when I was in LA giving a talk for Spellbound the women gathered at Spellbound asked me if I knew this man "Diogenes"? I shook my head yes, "Well, through the blog I do, but in person -- no." They thought I was a bit mad, not to give it a second thought, to leave the hotel in a strange man's car. Though one thing I have learned from blogging is that if anyone takes time to read my blog, and wants to meet me... then I figure we must be kindred spirits. At 10:30 sharp a black car pulled up in front of the hotel... Instantly, I knew we were going to have a wonderful day. It felt like we had been friends all my life.

 

We had a fabulous morning and talked constantly about anything and everything. Diogenes asked me if there was anything I wanted to see or do in Los Angeles before we continued on the planned adventure. I said I wanted to see his home. So off we went to see his home.

I imagined my friends back at SpellBound shaking their heads at me, "Crazy girl going to a stranger's home!"

Diogenes' home is/was gorgeous! Thank you again for the amazing tour and your friendship.

Guest Post: Arnelle Louise Kaas

 

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I am asking you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos to my email then I will post them to my blog. This will introduce you to one another.

Some of you are feeling shy, or worse not worthy as if there is a prize for the best life lived. I hope, truly hope, you will take a leap of faith in telling me and my readers about yourself, a cherished memory, a recipe, a hobby, what inspires you, what you dream about, and more importantly how are you? What are you living with or through right now?

Your story, as all of our stories, are one, interconnected by the weaver, the river, the dreamer, the wind, the path as we are on moving forward to the light. Please consider sharing a bit of yourself with me.

Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

______________________________________________________________

To All… The tribe of French la Vie,

 

 

I am Arnelle Louise.

Corey asked if I would share a little of my life but where do you begin? Maybe by telling you about a box I opened. The cardboard had that mildewed smell of staying in a damp basement for a way too long. I will add that my husband had been after me for years to go through this mystery, so one morning he put it in front of me and said, “today is the day!” Not to dwell on all the bits and pieces of my childhood I found hiding, I will just say my childhood scrapbook held the key to what became and still is my career. This large-format, 5 and dime book held page after page of furniture, room layouts, house facades, and close-ups of fabric. I always thought my memory was fairly on point, but I do not remember ever cutting or gluing these pages. So there you have it, I became an interior decorator.

 

 

 

This path was not direct.

-I was a postman.

-Worked in a now-famous Hippie Leather clothing company (Lenny Kravitz collects vintage pieces)

-Nurses Aid for terminally ill children

-Worked in a Vietnamese refugee camp in Hong Kong

-Had a small catering business

I have no formal training.

My drawing skills are pathetic.

But the realization that came to me was the importance of ‘finding home”.

 

 

Creating environments that clients feel safe, happy, and reflect who they are becoming my goal. Early on I realized that meeting a new client was not unlike being given a script of a character in a play. My goal was to be my client, walk in their shoes not the other way around. After almost forty years I have had the opportunity to act in many different roles in many different homes.

 

The rewards of this career have been tenfold. Working with individuals and families helped me to become more flexible and understanding as a person. I had to put aside how I live and what I like. How wonderful it is to look at colors with new eyes. Using colors that you thought you hated but now loved because the purple fabric and paint were perfect for your client.

How lucky I am.

 

On another note, I do not know how I know Corey, that is the truth. We share being independent California girls. We both grew up in a state that was filled with small farms and had a much slower pace. All I know is that my own journey to “finding home” lead me to France and my truly generous friend, Corey Amaro.

Yes, COVID 19 has taken away temporarily half of our lives, but Roger and I are healthy and look forward to returning to our corner of paradise... and also being reunited with Corey and Yann.

Peace and Health to All-

 

 

 

• What was the most helpful thing your parents did for you when you were growing up?

   My father was a house painter and would sit with me on the front porch while I colored in my coloring book.  He would blend colors with one,    two, three different crayons making it OK to come up with new colors. He would say, "You don’t have to stay within the lines".

 

That has been my life’s mantra!

 

 

 

 

 

• What inspires you when you create a home for others?

    Three things
   It always starts with architecture.  Is it a thin house or a thick house?  These two simple questions answered helps to define many decisions down the line

 The client. The client allows me to look at color, texture, light through their eyes which I find exciting and yes inspiring.

  Travel.  The French have a word which of course I have forgotten which translated means to be transported to an unknown or unfamiliar place.

  It is believed that this experience is good for the soul.

 

 

 

 

• How did you find your home in France?

  This story could be a long chapter in a book.  Let’s just say after many years, and before the internet was organized and helpful, we looked and looked.

   Finally, Roger said no more looking and that was that.  

But a trip to visit his family in Spain took us also back to France for one more try.  

I fell first in love with the country road that takes you to our last turn with a field cross, a petite statue of Mary, and 3 cypresses.

We entered through a gate walking along with the orchard...

My husband Roger looked at me

I knew I had made up my mind even before I had seen the house.

 

Since I do not speak French I have had to listen very carefully and not interrupt which I have a bad habit of doing.

Living in the countryside allows you to hear nature devoid of the white noise of the city.  Corey, you wrote about sitting by our pool and hearing something that you could not comprehend, you looked up and realized it was the sound of doves wings. Is that not a beautiful gift?

As you know Corey (maybe a book) that is the question that intrigues me.

I think it is that the South of France reminds me of California when I was a small little girl.  You ate fruits and vegetables based on the seasons.  Sundays were for family and drives out to the countryside. Life was slower and there was always a respect for nature. My Mother-in-Law spent her childhood near Montpellier escaping the Spanish Civil war.  She became our cheerleader as we searched for our dream.

 

 

• How does your life differ from France to the USA?

It is a small thing, but yet a big thing.  When in France we can go for 3 or 4 days without getting in our car!

Since we live in what I would say is a deep country,  we eat is definitely based on what is in season and available where we live.

When it is cold we definitely try and conserve heating fuel.  If we have a fire we cook in the fireplace, sharing a glass of wine, listening to music, and staying warm.

 

Follow Arnelle on Instagram

Guest Post: Judy Pinson

                                                 

 

 

                                                                                                  Our Love Story                    

 

The man I loved asked me to marry him three times, and I said “No” each time.

 

The first time was on the Grand Canal in Venice.

 

The second time, at the top of the Eiffel Tower.

 

The third time, we were on a train traveling through the mountains in California. It was for my birthday, a snowy trip he knew would be a dream come true for me. He opened a ring box, showed me a beautiful ring, asked me to marry him. He also said that he wanted me to have the ring no matter my answer. We arrived in Reno and went to dinner. Several minutes after arriving back to our hotel, I took one look at Bill and knew he was very sick. He was having a heart attack. A call was made, and he was rushed to the hospital. 

Am I a crazy woman?

Yes!!!

I was also very frightened and afraid of making a mistake again.

 

Bill and I met on eHarmony. His wife of 36 years, had died of cancer two years before. I had been single for over twenty years. Our experiences with love had been very different. He thought love was simple and straight forward. You find someone you love, marry them, and have a beautiful life together. I had once felt that way too... though the path of love unfortunately is never the same for anyone, mine was far from tender.

 

That was in 2007.

(By the way, YES, Bill did survive the heart attack. We spent three days in the hospital and then flew home to Portland, Oregon.) Two years later, we moved in together, and life began for us. We had our differences and worked them out. That’s was new for me. I was wonderfully surprised at many things. Nine years later, we got married. 

I met Corey through her blog about two years after I met Bill. My girlfriend had been reading her blog since the beginning. I contacted Corey and told her Bill and I were coming to France. Corey, being the kind, generous, loving, trusting person she is, invited us to meet with her. We met, hugged, laughed and hurried off to the brocante in that little town. Five minutes later, I left Bill at a table with a beer, talking with Yann. (Sidenote: We have been close friends ever since.)

Corey asked how long Bill and I had been married. I told her that we weren’t married. Corey just smiled, always accepting everyone wherever they are on their journey.

 

 

Happily together at Home Bill and me.

 

During that trip, Bill and I visited an amazing place, St. Baume. It was a magical place. It’s only about one-half hour from Corey’s home in St. Zacharie. In 2016, when Bill and I decided we would get married, I immediately contacted Corey. We asked if it would be possible to have a wedding ceremony at St. Baume. She said she could perform the ceremony. We were thrilled! Even though we tried to work out the details, sadly, it didn’t work. When June rolled around that year, we said our vows in front of a judge in Oregon City. The best part was when friends asked the next day, “How is married life?” I could happily say, “Same old, same wonderful old!”

I have read the stories that Corey’s readers have sent in. Amazing people—creative, resilient, and courageous. I don’t consider myself any of those things. That’s why I was more than a little surprised when Corey asked me to write about our crazy love story. I’m so honored to be a small part of this wonderful world of people who revolve around our mutual friend, Corey. 

 

Guest Post: Heather Bendet

 

 

Greetings to all of you I feel so honored to be able to write here as part of this wonderful community. As Corey had mentioned I felt shy like others about coming forward, which is unusual because I am a classic extrovert. Let me start by saying Hello and thank you for sharing this part of your day. My name is Heather and I met Corey online here in the blog world in 2008.  I also had a blog at that time. Sadly, I no longer blog I need to I really do, Corey always inspires me. 2008, My Blog was about the adventure of being a mom to small children among them twins. I was living in California and moved to Germany, the blog was a wonderful way to connect find community and share that experience. I found Tongue and Cheek, and have been mesmerized since because Corey is amazing and weaves a beautiful story with her kind words and beautiful pictures. I did get to go to Paris while we lived in

 

 

 

 

Germany, my son asked to celebrate his 6^th birthday on the Eiffel tower, at the time he was fascinated with the engineering of it. I drove my mother and the kids to France to celebrate his birthday and it was my first trip to France. It was good to finally get there after so many years of helping friends and family find their way to various French cities over the years. I went to Strasbourg often as it was only a short drive from where I lived in Germany. Sadly after only eight months and a huge scandal with my ex-husband, the children and I had to move to Texas, definitely not my chosen geographic location. The loss and frustrations of the mess that followed were so hard. This is one of the many reasons I admire Corey she blogs life, everything so beautifully even difficulties. I absolutely hope one day when we can travel again to meet Corey in person and see the beautiful countryside she calls home.

 

 

 

 

Years ago a close friend of mine from Australia said one word described me perfectly. Ideopraxist, it a glorious word that does sum me up. I have lived in 16 states and 3 countries. I have traveled to all 50 states and found something wonderful and unique in each. I love to travel and despite being a single Mom have managed some trips around the world. I have had many jobs from being a nurse to being an underwater archeologist.  I often had to adapt and change for where I was. A Jane of all trades and a master of none. I did study French in school and so many wonderful friends and memories are tied to that. At one time I was fluent enough I translated books and documents for work. Sadly my French has languished. Currently, I am working in International work which is my passion. I work for the US Government in all its excitement and frustration. I work in International training, we work with over 147 countries from training military dentist to pilots.

 

 

I love that I am able to work with people from around the world. My current role can be dry as I deal with the manpower to support the training compared with past roles working more directly with students. I still love the mission of connecting the international community and working on building and fostering partnerships globally. Today those beautiful small children are three incredible teenagers, in all the adventure and frustration that comes with being a Mom to teenagers. The 6-year-old is now almost 18, ready to graduate, speaks French (far better than I ever could), and has worked in Italy. The twins my dynamic duo are 13 there is never a dull moment.

 

 

Every day I come to this space Corey has created it as a solace, almost a busy Mom’s mediation. I find peace, glorious pictures, and stories that transport me to wonderful feelings and places. No matter how much chaos swirls around me I always know in my day I will have the wonderful calm moments of beauty here within this blog. I am thankful to Corey for creating this beautiful space where we can find meditation in pictures and rich stories. One of my favorite stories is the famous Copper bathtub, I laughed so much, especially trying to figure out how to get this tub to the inside. In the midst of the renovation, Corey found beauty and humor. I will one day see the famous Copper tub I have to, I love that tub too. We should all have that kind of love from family or friends, a spouse or partner someone who understands that yes indeed despite the small door or window or how impossible it seems we need the copper tub and it will complete the room and bring humor and beauty to our lives.

 

 

Life isn’t always where or what we would like it to be.

Keep trying,

keep searching,

find moments of beauty and humor,

Be present and try new things because this is what brings us together and helps us grow.

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Follow Heather on Instagram

Facebook here.

Guest Post: Dixie Crane

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I am asking you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos to my email then I will post them to my blog. This will introduce you to one another.

Many of you are feeling shy, or worse not worthy as if there is a prize for the best life lived. I hope, truly hope, you will take a leap of faith in telling me and my readers about yourself, a cherished memory, a recipe, a hobby, what inspires you, what you dream about, and more importantly how are you? What are you living with or through right now?

Your story, as all of our stories, are one, interconnected by the weaver, the river, the dreamer, the wind, the path as we are on moving forward to the light. Please consider sharing a bit of yourself with me.

Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

 

----------------

As a little girl, I grew up dreaming of being a mama with a happy little family, a white picket fence, and a "Suzy Homemaker" lifestyle. I got married at 18 and had 3 babies by the time I was 21. The last thing I expected was to end up single, with 3 small children, pregnant, and in poor health by the time I was 27. Life wasn't easy, but I was a dedicated mom, I worked hard and we survived. I didn't sleep much and sometimes I had two or three jobs, but the one thing I never lost was my creativity. You could always find me doing macrame, painting, sewing, beading, or crocheting--making something to sell or to make my home cute. It was the 1960s and I was the ultimate flower-child mama. If I could dream about it, I would try it!

In the summer of 1984, I was introduced to two gorgeous college boys. They were twins with bodies that appeared to have been carved out of mahogany, and they were working their way through college as male exotic dancers. Although they were recognized as great stage performers, they were quite humble and shy, therefore not good at promoting themselves. I became their surrogate mom, and I wanted to help them become more successful. And, of course, I had "ideas". Thus I began my journey into

the world of male exotic dancers.

I had jokingly referred to Mark and Max as my "double chocolate fudge brownies". This got me thinking--there were plenty of sexy male calendars being sold at the time, but why couldn't I publish a "cookbook" with photos of beautiful men attached to recipes with catchy names? So I got down to business; I hired a photographer, started collecting recipes, printed up business cards, and began my quest to find beautiful young men. It wasn't hard, California was filled with them and all my girlfriends carried my cards to freely give out to every handsome man they saw. (What an icebreaker!)

 

Long story short, as the guys met each other at photoshoots, etc. the concept of our own touring dance troupe evolved and before you know it, California Big Hunks was born and in time, a video was published. Although, at times, as the Big Hunks Mama, it was like herding a bunch of teenage girls, I was able to help young men financially, to provide entertainment, and to have lots of fun, all because I wasn't afraid to be creative and try something outrageous.

My message is this: dream big,

try new things,

help others,

have fun,

life is short!

 

Follow Dixie Crane on Facebook

California Big Hunks (sidenote: look for Dixie)

Questions, I have a million!

Are they other videos?

"We only did one video and it was sold on 8 track (tee hee) so, if it's online it's likely some kind of copy Jay Leno used part of it with one of the dancers with his own face dubbed in, some time ago."

Do you keep in touch (pun not intended wink) with any of those hunks guys?

I am occasionally in touch with Michael. Those guys are in their 50s now. 🤪

More fun parody here.

 

Filming Abroad During Covid-19

Sacha in Spain while working on a documentary this year.

 

Hello Everyone,

Traveling overseas for work has become difficult during COVID-19. 

When it comes to shoots abroad I'd like to offer my help to anyone who might have the need, whether you need a traveling shooter, people to connect with abroad, or help with rules, regulations, and translations.

Recently, I came back from my second trip to Europe in three months. Being a dual citizen (French/American) makes it easy for me to go back and forth and legally work in Europe.

I am a freelancer there too.

Finally, I also know many talented filmmakers in various departments I'd be happy to connect you with them throughout the USA and in Europe.

I hope this can help the filmmaking community.

Cheers,

Sacha

Guest Post: Sarah Lammey Webb

 

Hi There** 

My name is Sarah and I have been gifted with the invitation from Corey to tell a little about me and my life.

I am a flight attendant this month I start my 33rd year. To some that is a lot but to me it seems like yesterday when I was 25 I received the call from Piedmont airlines to come for an interview. Being a flight attendant is like no other job you will ever have few quit. Flying gets in your blood. I have been through numerous mergers, have had salary cuts, I also do not do a 9-5, sometimes get little sleep, but to see the world YES, please! I have had incredible opportunities that this lifestyle has given me.

 

 

 

As a flight attendant, I can work as little or as much as I want. I normally only work 14-16 days a month. I can fly free when I am not working, or just pay the tax when flying overseas. It is a lifestyle many people don’t get to have. I also fly to work as I am currently based in Dallas. What that means is I start and stop my trips there. I leave my house in Indianapolis hop on an airplane flight to work then go on a trip and then fly back to Indianapolis and drive home. I normally do the transatlantic flights but with covid, not much overseas is going on. 

 

I live outside Indianapolis in a small city which I love! There is always a vintage or antique market going on. A pop-up shop or live music. We live about 2 miles from an outdoor amphitheater and by we I mean my son Carson and I. He is almost 21 and is a beautifully gifted musician, artist, and a beautiful old soul. He is happiest listening or playing old blues or jazz. I have taken him all over the world as well. Every year we went somewhere different for spring break Seattle, San Francisco, Anchorage, Toronto, and for my 50th we went to Paris. In the middle of the Porte de Vanves flea market, he said, « I get it, mom! I get why you love the flea markets and antique shows!” We are super close and for that I am grateful.

 

And where does Corey come into my equation? I went through a really nasty divorce and decided to do something for myself. I had been following Corey for a while and when I saw that she was doing a French la Vie journey at first I hesitated… then decided I was worth it! I had traveled alone before but not for this long. So in 2017, I flew to Paris, and then Marseille and I met 2 others on the same trip. We clicked and decided to go back again last year. This time we stayed in Corey’s lovely home and made it our home base. Corey will take you to every artist home, every flea market within a 1-2 hour radius, and help you ship your goods back home. 
I have even met up with Corey while on an overnight in Paris! 

Bonjour mes amies Sue and Deanna.

 

 

I have a booth in a resale shop I call Portobello Road. (Like the famous flea market in London) this year it was renamed to Portobello Rd Travels. I bring back goods from all over the world, digging at any and all fleas in every country, for amazing treasures! Favorites are Porte de Hol in Brussels,   Porte de Vanves in Paris, plus a town outside London called Lewes.

I think hmmm will that fit in my bag or the first-class closet? 

 

Follow me on Facebook 

Portobello rd travels 

Or on Instagram Portobellordtravels

 

Misconceptions of my job~ 
Some people think we are waitresses — which there is nothing wrong with but most don't understand what we do, what we are trained to do (and go back every year to be recertified) We deal with medical emergencies, ok, yes people forget to eat or don't bring their needed food and they are diabetic. But also there are serious medical situations that happen like strokes and heart attacks. I just wish people would be more understanding of what we do and have some respect.

 
We transport more than vacation travelers we transport mail all over the world, life-saving medications (think eyes for someone’s surgery so they may see the world again) and equipment, military personnel, relief supplies after hurricanes or earthquakes, a quick evacuation, and even quicker emergency response. We drive dollars into the economy and we do it all with a smile on our face and the belief that it is the safest mode of transportation. Take a look around you and see how the airlines have influenced your life.

 

 

and sometimes I have time to look out the window to see the magnificent views, and I needed that right that at times.

 

Funny Flight attendant clip

 

Loves of my job~ 
Yes, I have met famous people some good some not so nice hahaha but favorites were Mr. Rogers and Muhammed Ali. My latest was Henry Winkler "the Fonz" What an absolute doll he was personable and kind.

 

I collected a bit of everything but my love for pottery is a sickness but I do use it! I collect vintage dustpans and have them hanging on my laundry room wall. 
I love to buy from local artists and my home is full of antiques from over the world, blown glass, and pottery. 

 

Flight attendants have tight bonds which is important, flight attendants have a closeness you cant get anywhere else. 

 

Mexico fun bakery

I love discovering new places, going to grocery stores in foreign countries, embrace other cultures, finding that hole in the wall spot that only flight crews can find, ask us!

 

 

Probably one of the best trips ever was a trip to Greece and Santorini with a close girlfriend, no schedule, we rented a car (we were brave) and saw the island, tasted the food and went to the wineries.

 
I flew into San Francisco and drove to Seattle and back once with another girlfriend. 
I have taken my son to the Redwoods, to Alcatraz, and to the Louvre in Paris. I believe the education of travel is important and makes you a better person in return. 

Flight attendants see some crazy things, just when you think you have seen and heard it all over the years... you haven't.
a few days ago a guy boarded with a saddle on a thick leather belt slung across his back. I could tell you worse but I won't!

 

It is an amazing life but I am happiest at home with my cat Holiday and my sweet kiddo Carson just being together and enjoying each other!

but……….don’t be surprised if on a whim after we meet I say, ”Let’s go have dinner in Paris because we can!”  and hop on an open flight and GO.

 

____________________

Sidenote:

I saw this and wanted to add it to Sarah's page:

“To the public saying that the airlines don’t deserve a bailout,

The airlines in the USA provide jobs to more than 750,000 people in the United States. Indirectly they provide jobs to over 10 million people. They transport more than just vacation travelers. They transport organs for transplant, life-saving medications, medical equipment, people seeking medical treatment, military personnel, your mail, your amazon orders, and your family members. They provide relief for emergency situations like hurricanes, mass fires, earthquakes, and floods. They provide a means of quick evacuation and rapid emergency response. They help drive over 1.7 Trillion dollars into our economy. And they do that all while working as the fastest and safest means of transportation. Yes they help you go on vacation, and yes they are big business, however, they are a vital part of our economy and our everyday lives. If they are let to fail as a result of this virus, then the effects will be widespread and devastating for our nation and the world. So take a minute, look around you, think about your life and how the airlines have influenced it.”

 

Sincerely,

An Airline Employee

 

Guest Post: Christine Stratemeier

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I am asking you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos to my email then I will post them to my blog. This will introduce you to one another.

Many of you are feeling shy, or worse not worthy as if there is a prize for the best life lived. I hope, truly hope, you will take a leap of faith in telling me and my readers about yourself, a cherished memory, a recipe, a hobby, what inspires you, what you dream about, and more importantly how are you? What are you living with or through right now?

Your story, as all of our stories, are one, interconnected by the weaver, the river, the dreamer, the wind, the path as we are on moving forward to the light. Please consider sharing a bit of yourself with me.

Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

 

 

Corey has been a guiding light of generosity and joy to me ever since I began reading her blog all those years ago. I have no idea how I found her, but thank goodness that I did.

This is such a wonderful idea to invite us to join in and here’s a snapshot of the journey that brought me to Burgundy, France.

When you have been hard-wired to pass exams, get the top job, succeed in the City of London, work 80 hour weeks, wear high heeled shoes, all at the same time as maintaining an outstanding personal life with a distant objective on the sidelines to bear children, meeting a French winemaker and falling in love at first glance is not included in those parameters.
Nevertheless, it’s what happened to me.

 

 

Successfully living my life as a lawyer with a global London law firm, seconded to Hong Kong for a five-year contract, earning mega money and thinking I was very cool, my gut suddenly took me elsewhere, and resulting from a conversation sitting in an alleyway next to stinky dustbins outside the 1997 nightclub in Lan Kwai Fong with a man I had met five hours earlier, I gave notice on my job, my apartment sold my car and arrived lock stock and smoking barrel in Echevronne, France.

My new boyfriend of three days, for that, was how long he was staying in Hong Kong with a mutual friend, and I, didn’t have the benefit of modern means of communication: cell phones, Facebook, Whatsapp, Facetime were the stuff of futuristic imagination. We were limited to landline telephones, hindered by the time difference between France and Hong Kong, and the fact that he worked ( still does ) very long hours in his vineyards nowhere near a phone. We somehow managed to kindle our admiration of one another and eight months after our meeting I had succeeded in extricating myself from several complex litigation cases and the life that I had created for myself, and very much enjoyed!

 

My arrival in Burgundy was eagerly awaited by the entire village of 250 people, most of whom appeared to have the same surname as my new family. In fact, I rapidly realized that the village was my new family. My future mother-in-law was standing in the street ( there is only one street ) and my future father-in-law, who was a member of the national parliament at the time, was being driven down from Paris at high speed so as not to miss out on a moment of the great event. I adored my sisters-in-law immediately as they are both tall with big feet, and I quickly realized that both love eating and drinking. I was emerging from a culture of daily gym, tennis, and swimming, where ordering a dessert in a restaurant would cause an embarrassed hush. Here were women, who in the French way, were, and still are, slender, chic, and gourmands. At dessert time during our first meal en famille at our nearest Michelin one-star restaurant, I refused to order from the laden trolley. My sisters-in-law, as if rehearsed and absolutely at the same time, cried «  But no, you must order a dessert. We will eat it for you ». I knew that my life was going to be fine.

 

My new family is an old established wine-making clan in Burgundy. My father-in-law was very active in re-establishing the vineyards around our village, which is up in the hills above the famous wine route from Chassagne Montrachet in the south up to Gevrey Chambertin in the north. We now have vineyards spread over about 40 km, producing white and red wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. As well as being an energetic and highly respected member of the winemaking community, he was also the elected member of parliament for the region. Shall we say that he was well known; Now, I had never been a girl who had dreamt of her wedding day. Luckily I was taken in hand by my dear sisters-in-law, who thought of things like dresses, flowers, and decoration. So everything was going to be organized for me. My parents were in England and we were to wed in France, the ceremony to be officiated over by my famous f-in-l, also mayor of the village. They were still reeling from the shock of their highly ambitious daughter «  throwing herself away » for the love of a rogue Frenchman and seemed to be content to turn up in time for a ceremony that they were not going to understand.

 

 

What I hadn’t realized that in France, particularly rural France, there are two echelons of wedding invitation. There’s the full invitation, which includes the ceremony, of course, the drinks and the sit-down dinner, onion soup at 4 am, and breakfast and lunch the following day. Family, close friends, and so on. But there’s the other sort and that’s what caught me out. This is the ceremony and drinks invitation. And thanks to the position that my future family held in our local world, but also in the national world, and indeed the entire world, well, there were 900 people for drinks. And that’s only because some couldn’t come. And they all bore gifts. And expected to shake hands and claim their kiss from the bride. The line-up took four hours. My cheeks are still sore. I still, 32 years later, meet people in town who stop and tell me how wonderful  I looked that day, and I have no idea who they are.  

 

 

 

 

But don’t worry, no inflated egos are allowed here in the Côte d’Or, where reputations (and fortunes) are made thanks to the luck of the draw of your inherited vineyards and not how many years you spent at university. It’s also useful if the wine you make is decent!

 

I didn’t know this when I fell in love with Jean-Michel, otherwise, I would have done my research more thoroughly. Some Grand Cru wines sell for more than 1000€ per bottle – no error in the zeros there. And that’s direct from the producer. Now, why did I find and love the winemaker without any Grand Cru !! What I am trying to say is that all my diplomas, legal achievements, and smart suits meant absolutely nothing here. French country people don’t ask questions about where you come from, which school did you attend, which university, what does your father do? There is a certain reserve, but also as a foreigner you hold a special position which means you are undefinable. So why bother to find out about you, because you are incomprehensible in any event. Being English, where the criteria listed above, and of course your accent when you speak, immediately define you, this took, some getting used to. It is liberating, but also irritating. Especially if you can’t express yourself as well as you’d like to in your new language. In the beginning, when my every phrase of spoken French required half an hour of rehearsal, many of those that I met made the remark that I seemed very nice, was certainly very pretty, but maybe had a drinking problem as all I could do to pass the time as the conversation reeled about me was to consume Kir after Kir. And don’t be fooled, a Kir is stronger than you think!

 

 My husband’s art using elements of winemaking.

 

Anyway,  32 years later with three amazing children who are now 28, 26, and almost 21, a house we built ourselves, another one being built also by ourselves, thanks to time freed up during confinement and a bolt hole in Spain, a successful wine estate, and a husband who is never, ever ordinary, I am simply grateful that I listened to my instincts sitting on the pavement next to that dustbin in Lan Kwai Fong.

 

Questions:

Did you speak French before arriving in France?

My French was at an excellent high school level, meaning I had read Molière and Voltaire but was incapable of holding a conversation.

How was the harvest this year?

The harvest this year was very early indeed due to the beautiful spring weather and dry summer. The berries were very clean and healthy, but small, due to the lack of rain, which means that the crop is of excellent quality but small in quantity.

Can we come visit you and drink some wine?

The Domaine is open for tasting, and that's how we sell more than 50% of our wine. Tasting is by appointment, although we do have people who drop in - it's best to make an appointment to make sure that we are here, and also we can organise our day around the rdv. Purchasing our wine is very easy : either on the spot, or through our US agent, or direct from us and we ship directly to our private clients. We take payment at a distance by bank card.

We are selling a lot of wine by correspondance at the moment as it's so hard for people to travel and collect themselves. During November and December we deliver ourselves to our French clients, free of charge ( certain regions, but almost everywhere ). We have been holding zoom tastings with a number of wine clubs throughout the world, which is great fun. We could look at trying to organize one early next year for the readers of your blog ! that would be fabulous fun.

Contact to lucien-jacob@wanadoo.fr or phone +33 (0)3 80 21 52 15. We all speak English.

Follow Christine on Facebook

 

Guest Post Lana

 

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I am asking you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos to my email then I will post them to my blog. This will introduce you to one another.

Many of you are feeling shy, or worse not worthy as if there is a prize for the best life lived. I hope, truly hope, you will take a leap of faith in telling me and my readers about yourself, a cherished memory, a recipe, a hobby, what inspires you, what you dream about, and more importantly how are you? What are you living with or through right now?

Your story, as all of our stories, are one, interconnected by the weaver, the river, the dreamer, the wind, the path as we are on moving forward to the light. Please consider sharing a bit of yourself with me.

Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

...

 

 

 

Corey and me in Oakland

 

 

French la Vie/ Tongue in Cheek has played such an important part in my journey I have followed Corey for years.

 

I found out early that we had a lot in common. Corey was raised in Willows, California and I was raised in Berkeley.  We have family in Willows and Corey's family knew them.

 

We would visit Willows often as my father's father lived there with his family and they owned a large supermarket in town. Their family name is Mock which is my maiden name.

 

 

My five sisters and me

 

 

My father had a meat market in Oakland. During WWII he entered and served when he was discharged, he re-opened the store. I have five sisters yes, six girls we worked at my father's market. Burning the feathers off of the chickens, cleaning and cutting them up for restaurants, stocking up the meat cases, and waiting on customers, we worked alongside ten other butchers.

 

After attending UC Berkeley studying classical archaeology, at a young age I was married for eight years when we divorced, I was devastated, I thought I would not put all my chickens in one basket again. I would have my own friends: both female and male and I would do what I like, instead of swallowing my personality to accommodate only the interests of another man. 

 

I decided to catch up for the lost time. I dated, partied, attended concerts, and thoroughly enjoyed myself.  I had a wonderful 4 yr relationship that I thought would last, but it ended sadly or maybe not.  I re-grouped and remarried a 2nd time this time to a lawyer it was definitely a case of rebound.  I divorced within the year.

 

My first husband was a major drug dealer who manufactured meth and sold cocaine internationally. This was unknown to me while we were married he later served thirteen years in federal prison in the USA and in England.

 

My second husband is currently serving seven years in jail for embezzling twenty four million dollars from clients' trusts and wooing women we had homes in Pebble Beach and Tiburon.

 

My husband Steve and me at Christmas

 

 

Then I met my third husband. We will be celebrating thirty eight years on October 29th. My husband Steve Kloch is a kind, helpful, supportive husband.  He supports my interest in my love of France and anything French.

 

 Corey and I connected when I visited my cousins in Willows, we started a beautiful relationship. She had arrived from France and was going to talk about her adventures at a well-known furniture store in Chico (Nantucket) my husband and I drove up and met her (again) and her husband Yann.

 

 

A corner in my home

 

Since then, I have bought treasures on her brocante site and was able to attend her French la Vie.  I was exposed to the best brocantes and artists.

 

More importantly, I discovered that Corey has, the best taste, designs, and eye for architecture, remodeling, staging, decor, and cooking. Her home in France and her apartment in Paris would make anyone feel like a princess. It's as if you were a millionaire paying millionaire prices for what she provides.

 

 

 

Chelsea, Dolores and me in Willows

 

When I stayed with Corey in Willows, I learned she got some of her beautiful attributes from her mother Dolores. The family traditions, the baking, making the home so beautiful was her hobby and love. She scattered so many collections throughout her home indoors and outdoors.

 

 

A peek at some of the "Sense and Nonsense" I have.

 

 

 

 

One of my first finds in Paris’s brocante 10 years ago, a metallic embroidered memoriam celebrating a wedding.

 

 

I am Seventy Seven years old now the last fifteen years or so I have been collecting / selling French ware. Aso I have published 2 magazines and started a business with the help of Wendy Addison, Theatre of Dreams my business is called: Stuff and Nonsense.

 

 

We hold classes in our home for teachers who need a safe space to teach and invite guests who appreciate these artists.  I am able to share my love of cooking at these events.. and my husband plays a large part in this too as he serves the coffee and refills and the champagne. He ensures the guests have a great time.

 

 

 

I also hold sales in the home and @ the theatre of dreams in Port Costa. Where I will be selling again the week, before Thanksgiving.

 

To be with Corey Amaro and share in her passions has made my life so remarkable.  I hope my friends are able to find their passion and make magic. Life is a gift. We can make it what we want, keep a positive attitude, and surround yourself with positive people.

 Life is a journey with many twists and turns I would not change a thing to become who I am today with the interests, friendships, and passions I have today. 

 

Follow Lana on Facebook.

 

Lana on Instagram

 

Guest Post: Lil

                             Lil's paintings!

 

 

I'm not sure how I found 'French la Vie' (Tongue in Cheek) so many years ago but I was probably googling something French and returned each day because Corey's posts are like a little visit to France or to Willows or to wherever she's ventured. ...Here's a little about me and my first visit to Paris.

 

I am half French. My mother's family names are Dozois and Laurence and I remember that on my first visit to Paris in 1974 I saw their faces everywhere. I'd spent most of that college 'year abroad' in Italy and no one ever mistook me for an Italian, but once I got to France I felt at home. People would even ask me for directions, thinking I was a native. 

 

I'd taken six years of French in school and could understand most of what was said to me, but I couldn't speak French. I needed more practice so in January of that year I moved to Paris and lived in a 'chambre de bonne', a maid's room, on the 6th floor of a beautiful building in the 16th arrondissement. It was very romantic and very cold! There was no heat! To get to my room I climbed a dark back staircase and I spent a lot of time under the covers of my bed trying to stay warm. But I was in Paris! The little windows looked out on the rooftops of a beautiful neighborhood and I bought birdseed for the birds and fed them outside my window and wandered around Paris.

 

 

The above is not me but it is a 'chambre de bonne' like the one I lived in.

 

At the end of the school year I applied for a French painting scholarship. There were 5 scholarships which would have provided a studio and living expenses for a year in Paris. I was the first runner up but sadly none of the winners reneged. So instead of the trajectory that an all expense paid year of painting in Paris would have set me on, I moved to New York where I lived in a loft and painted and waitressed. Life was pretty hard in New York on a waitress' income so one very snowy winter I got on a bus for California and after three and a half days I arrived in San Francisco. I was in heaven. The sky was blue and the lighting was Mediterranean. Sun!

  

 

I moved into a loft and to earn money worked for Beach Blanket Babylon making theatrical hats and for the Opera and eventually worked my way into making props for filmmakers. (I don't have any photos handy of my old work or jobs (digging those out and digitizing them is one of my planned projects). I worked on the early Star Wars movies in San Rafael and eventually became an art director and concept artist for films.  

 

 

My painting took a back seat while I worked year after year on films and now 'fast forward' 25 years and many movie projects later and here I am, happily retired. During that time I married the love of my life and we had a wonderful son who is also the love of my life. He's grown now and living in Seattle.

 

 

                 My baby when he was a year old.

 

 

 

 

2020 has been a tough year for everyone with the virus and politics and here in CA we've had the extra burden of the fires and smoke filled air. The good thing is that my husband and I have discovered new beautiful places in the Bay Area to walk. Lately we look at the local air quality map each day to see where the air is clear and off we go. He and I have been together for 35 years now and, luckily, we still enjoy each other's company!

 

Here's a little bit about where we live...

Our house is high on a hill in Marin and we're the last house before Open Space. If you walk up from our house to the top of Bald Hill, this is the view. That's San Francisco in the distance on the right. This photo was taken in March of this year.

 

Unfortunately it hasn't been that beautiful or clear for over a month because of the fires and smoke. As you've probably seen on the news, on November 9th the skies here were orange in the middle of the day. Very eerie. 

 

 

 

But spring was beautiful. We had swallows in our birdhouse in May and bluebirds in the same birdhouse before that. There's lots of wildlife around here; coyote, fox and deer and hawks and turkey vultures. We saw this bobcat sitting on a fallen tree above our property in April. 

 

 

 

Persimmon and lemons 8" x 10"

 

I still paint but instead of the big expressionist paintings I used to do when I started out, I now do little 8"x10" still lives. I'm conscious of downsizing these days and that has included my artwork.

 

 

Someday I hope to get back to France. I want to walk in the parks and sit and listen and just soak up the language and mannerisms. I'll have a croissant and un cafe and maybe work on my French a bit. I don't need to go to museums and landmarks. I just want to 'be' in France.

 

And that's my life in a nutshell! It's nice to get to know a little about you other 'French la Vie' fans. Thanks for sharing a glimpse into your lives. 'Lil'

 

My Mother's Birthday

 

My mother's birthday.

This incredible year that has shaped us in ways we never imagined. A year where I sat countless hours with my mom doing things I had dreamed about for years, everyday simple things, sharing life as one does without realizing the gift that it is: We cooked, fed the chickens, wrote letters, hung clothes on the line, baked pies, picked berries, laughed, watch TV, played cards, cheated, ate way too many popsicles, and cookies, cracked countless bags of walnuts, visited my dad's grave, made bouquets of flowers and said the rosary every night silently by each other's side.

I fell more in love with my mom. I saw her with adult eyes, I saw her for the powerful loving woman that she has always been. I saw her faith and how she lives her life in that faith. I have so much to learn by her example. Her steadfast truth in doing what is the right thing to do and to do it without counting the cost or expecting anything in return.

 

She loves to be in her garden and sits outside every chance she gets.

 

 

 

I spent five and a half wonderful months with my mom mostly alone during the beginning of Covid I watched it change our lives and witnessed how it was going to continue to change our lives as time goes on.

Spending those five and a half months with my mom was one of the most unexpected cherished gifts. Everything I had missed or felt I had missed came gently and reassuringly that love no matter the distance nor time passed is present, tangible, and real. I do not know why I am so fortunate to have been given such a richness but I am grateful for the source it has given my soul.

My mom the firecracker, whippersnapper, baker, cook, bottlewasher, decorator, giver, sensitive, heartful mom celebrates her birthday differently today but with an attitude that I admire and long to obtain.

(My mother doesn't like her picture taken, nor does she like attention brought to herself, so I am in big trouble. I mean BIG. But I live far away so I figure there isn't too much she can do except say, "Corey for crying out loud what were you thinking posting about me?"

In which I will answer, "Umm let's say Love You Mom."

 

 

Kate my youngest niece with her Va. Kate goes almost every day to see my mom and plays cards. Probably is learning to cheat, or at least catching my mom at her own game.

 

 

 

 

Usually, my family and I go "home" this time of year as it is the best time, my mother's birthday, not too hot, harvest, pomegranates are ripe, Halloween, Thanksgiving...

Last year my mom met her first and only great-grandchild Gabriel.

We had planned to be there this time of the year... instead, I send my mother a slew of videos of Gabriel.

 

 

 

 

My nieces send me photos of my mom (most of these photos are from them)

My mother has a fun-loving spirit, she is fast with wit and humor, and catches on to things at lightning speed. A tease, a jokester, and an easy laugh.

 

 

 

My mom loves to bake and does so every day. How I did not gain weight while at home I have no idea. My mom has taught my nieces and Sacha (who lived with her for a year after he finished school) to bake/cook. The photo above is when we made sweet bread (think butter) over and over again I can still taste it in my mind.

 

 

 

My mother has an enormous sweet tooth. Loves to snitch and lick her fingers. She knows a good thing and isn't afraid to dive into it with enthusiasm especially when it comes to family, baking, home...  Life is worth living every calorie.

 

 

My mom and brothers Mark and Mat.

Zane and Marty weren't there that day so I will just say we are the favorites (which she would say, "I have no favorites!" And I honestly believe she doesn't.).

 

 

 

(My mom, my sister in law Diane, Maci, Molly, Kate, Patti (the oldest grandchild) and my sister in law Suzy.)

My mother created "Monday Night Dinners" every Monday since her first grandchild was born she made dinner for the family all by herself: Planned the menu, shopped, set the table, cooked, baked, cleaned up, and slept soundly like she does every night.

Note four pies and table decor, that is my mom full-throttle extraordinaire giving without asking for anything in return.

 

 

Boys in the kitchen,

My mom, Mat leaning on the stove, Marty, Warren, Andy, and Mark.

 

 

 

My mom picking pomegranates from her ever loaded trees.

 

 

 

 

The two funny ones my mom and her grandson Joe, there are others, but these two do have a funny bone.

 

 

 

Another thing my mom does is on the birthdays of those she has loved who have died and on holidays my mom goes to the cemetery cleans their gravestones and adds flowers or and decor. I kid you not with a big family like ours you can say she is at the cemetery nearly 365 days a year. She carries a little broom, dustpan, bucket, and clippers in her pickup just for that reason.

 

 

and her love grows.

 

My mom with one of her sisters Louie, I think this was days before my mom started to stay at home due to covid. What fun we had. We baked sweetbread rolls A TON OF THEM, that they made for a church fundraiser auction. They let me eat 1 roll, 1.

My Aunt Louie would pinch a blob of dough for my mom and me to make the rolls. She knew exactly how many rolls she would have by eye, not by measure. 

 

 

My mother decorates for each season or holiday and has bouquets of fresh flowers from her garden ALWAYS on the counter, and table. 

 

 

 

My niece Molly sent me this photo. She took it looking through the window into my mother's home. Next to the window is the kitchen table, on Monday everyone has their "seat" this is where Molly usually sits. But since COVID nobody has been in my mother's home. It is her safe zone. When the grandchildren come to visit or my brothers/sisters-in-laws they visit outside. Can you imagine that? A home that was full of activity, cooking, and card playing and being loud and full? 

Today is her birthday. My mom said she was going to bake a pie or two for whoever comes to visit.

She will have plenty of visitors. She is loved and grateful and trusts that even Covid cannot spoil her day nor her outlook.

"What will be will be so we only have our attitude to mind and faith to follow..." is what she would say.

Happy Birthday, Dear Mom!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guest Post: Irina Lapko

 

Hello everybody and thank you Corey for inviting me to be a guest on your blog. 

I’ve been reading Corey’s blog from the beginning when she started it many years ago. 

We first became online friends but later met when Corey and Yann stayed with us in Hong Kong for a few days and later I visited their beautiful home in Provence. 

 

Oh, I forgot to introduce myself: 

My name is Irina. I live in Florida after moving to the States from Hong Kong in 2016, first to Alexandria, Virginia, and later to Florida. 

What I would like to talk about today is what I like to do the most- knitting. Especially color knitting. 

Here is the proof- a cabinet full of colorful yarn and some of my knitted mittens and gloves

 

 

 

(Sidenote: Yes, Irina knitted all of those!)

 

   I started knitting at the age of nine and haven’t stopped since knitting needles are always in hands and lots of knitting ideas in my head.

 

I’ve been always fascinated with traditional costumes, with all the work that goes into making them. I’m originally from Ukraine my country traditions and costumes are truly beautiful. Starting with flower-head-wreaths to hand-embroidered Vyshyvanka (blouse). So it is no surprise that in my knitting I prefer traditional styles. It has always been fair isle knitting that I work on mastering in following its technic and colors but also I’m totally in love with Estonian knitting traditions.

 

 

 

 

             

 

 

 

Here is my work in progress, knitting Estonian gloves originated in Muhu, and traditional Muhu stockings. 

 

 

I hope that one day I’ll visit that tiny island of Muhu! It’s been my #1 dream destination for awhile. But for now, I keep reading, mastering my knitting technique, and admiring works of those who continue to keep traditions alive. 

 

 

 

 

(Work in progress. Knitting fair isle vest.)

 

Fair isle it’s a knitting technique where you have always two colors in a row. The name comes from the island name- fair island which is one of Shetland islands in Scotland. Most of the time I knit with wool, and mostly Shetland wool.

Here are some of my fair isle knits.

 

 

 

 

  

 

Also I enjoy needlepoint. 

 

Above are two examples of slippers I needlepointed for myself and another pair with a fox head for my son.

 

 

 

 

 

 

My embroidery from a while ago and an all time favorite piece that I've done. This was from a painting by Thomas Sully of his nine year old son painted in 1820. Referred as 

The Torn Hat

 

To see much more of Irina's stunning intricate works of art please follow her on

Instagram Irina Lapko

 

 

 

Irina describes her latest needlework, "Albrecht Durer’s watercolor The Young Hare embroidered in cross-stitch – my recently finished work. With a few other needlepoints, knitting, sewing projects, it took me almost a year to embroider one of my favorite paintings, and like they say ‘this is not your grandma’s embroidery’. The pattern is very detailed, it uses 36 colors of DMC floss. With 265 x 294 stitches, it has a size of about 15″ x 16″ on 18-count canvas.

Can you imagine 36 colors... in taupe.

 

 

The first steps to perfecting needlework you must have good eyes, nimble fingers, and love for calculating and patience.

Back in 2012, I blogged about Irina here, 

 

Regarding Irina's stunning work, The Young Hare (Albrecht Durer’s watercolor).

 

 

 

 

Question: Do you knit for others? 

 

Yes, I take commissions. Most of the time there will be a waiting time before I start. I’m working on something most of the time, especially fall/winter. I knit everything by myself, with no help and all by hand, especially that kind I do, like fair isle or other color knitting takes a lot of time. If anyone is interested in knowing more you can DM me on Instagram with questions/commissions.

 

*If you would like to see more of my work, knitting and needlepoint, welcome to my Instagram where I share all of that. 

 

https://www.instagram.com/irinalapko/

 

 

 

Guest Post: Jackie Lantry

(photo old postcard found on the web)

 

I grew up in Whitney Point, New York, a dairy farming community where there were (literally) more cows than people. Everyone in our small village looked like me, with dirty blond hair, blue eyes, and pale skin sprinkled with freckles. The biggest difference was when someone had dark hair or brown eyes. Television was still shown only in black and white and programs were only in English, which further cemented my childish idea that the “microcosm” that was my little world, was what the whole world looked like and sounded like. It was the end of the 1950s/beginning of the 1960s. Frozen and canned foods were the future! They made the chore of cooking a thing of the past and freed up American women to do other important things, like laundry and vacuuming. We ate a typical American diet, which meant cereal with milk for breakfast. We took lunchboxes with a sandwich (baloney, American cheese, and mustard on squishy white bread) 1 apple, and 2 cookies. We bought a box of milk at the lunch counter for 10 cents. Dinner depended on the day of the week. Friday was fish-sticks with macaroni and cheese, Sunday was roast beef, mashed potatoes and mushy-canned-green beans. Other nights brought culinary marvels like a tuna-noodle casserole, meatloaf or hotdogs and beans. The closest we came to gourmet food was Good Seasons Italian salad dressing mix on iceberg lettuce. I thought pies came from a box in the freezer section of the Grand Union grocery store. I had no idea one could actually “make” a pie.

Photo of a postcard vintage school bus found on the web.

 

One very normal, very average fall day, I hopped off bus number 57 and walked up the hill amongst a gaggle of other blond-haired, blue-eyed, white bread eating kids, to our house. I dropped my lunchbox, a handful of important papers, and my books on the bench by the side door threw my jacket on the coat tree and went into the living room. The TV was on, even though mom wasn’t there. I plopped myself down on the red couch and watched Julia Child on PBS.

 

Her ubiquitous dishtowel looped through her apron strings, she tossed flour, yeast, salt, and water together to make real, homemade, bread. Clouds of flour flew all over the place, settling both on the counter and her ample bosom. She man-handled that dough. Using a dough scraper, she scraped up the blob and then “THWAP,” slapped it back down again in a white-out pouf of flour. At one point the scraper flew out of her hand and skittered across the counter, exiting stage left. This elicited a simultaneous laugh and yelp from Madame Julia.

I was glued to the TV, mesmerized by her performance, loose and seemingly off the cuff, yet full of confidence. She plopped the dough into a glass bowl, set it aside to rise, and began a story about bread making in France…

Chattering on about yeast and rise, taste, and temperature she eventually brought out a bowl of already risen dough for comparison. Pillowy, you could sense its softness as the camera moved in. Talking about the first rise, second rise, and deflating dough, she explained that these stages of bread-making were what developed taste and texture. She continued, talking about resting, relaxing, forming, and shaping the dough…”

“Forming is so important,” she went on, in her breathy, husky voice, “That I took a private lesson at the École professional de Meunière, in Paris, with the renowned French Chef Raymond Calvel.”

The picture on the TV switched from her PBS kitchen to a bakery in Paris and a long, low counter studded with blobs of dough in various stages of rising. A serious-looking, gray-haired man in a white smock began (in French of course…)

My pasty-white-bread, English-hearing ears had never heard any language other than English.

“Nous allons commencer par la baguette. Passe moi un baton, alor la.”

“Voila! Bien sur.”

I was transported, as if by magic, to a foreign world with a flowery language rising up out of clouds of flour. I was transfixed!

Julia was gigantic and towered over the diminutive Chef Calvel. With her hips swinging, she asked, in that distinctive voice,

“Je peux essayer?”

She went on to make baguettes alongside the most famous bread maker in all of France.

 

It was at that very moment that I became anaphylactic about France. I plotted and planned, took French in high school, and dreamed of the day I could visit France and eat a baguette. It was not until 1981 that I had the chance to travel to France. I went with a friend, an art teacher who had the summer off. We spent 2 glorious weeks in Spain and France. There was nothing I did not like, stepping in French dog poo was something out of a movie. Clouds of cigarette smoke smelled “oh so French.” No amount of French eye-rolling at my-decidedly casual-dress and giant American smile could dissuade me, France was heaven on earth.

 

We had dinner with ‘A REAL FRENCH FAMILY!!!” (exactly as written on my postcard home.) What I remember is that they served beef (I was a vegetarian) with mustard (huh? Mustard?) and that they took about 35 minutes to discuss which wine would be best with the beef (I hated red wine.) Appetizers were a handful of smoked almonds and olives (with pits!) Needless to say, I’d never had either. They instructed me to try a bit of meat with a dab of mustard with a sip of the red wine. I did as instructed. I had never had a more delicious bite of food in my entire life.

 

I was a Francophile.

 

 

 

Fast forward to the mid-2000s. I was married, divorced, married again, had adopted 4 kids from China (in my mid-40’s), and cared for 3 elderly relatives (lived with me) until they passed (all in their 90’s.) I had a Master’s in Social Work but quit that to write and sell antiques. The antique shop became an excuse to go to France, treasure hunting for the shop. By chance, I met someone at the Brimfield Antiques Fair who knew the blog “Tongue in Cheek” and knew Corey personally. I shamelessly begged for an intro and the next time I was in France we met. I was verklempt! I was so excited I gave her a big American grin while squealing “You’re real!” We have been long-distance friends ever since.

I hope one day to live in France and have been working on that plan since, well, let’s face it, since 1971 when I first saw Julia flinging bread dough in a cloud of flour on PBS.

 

PS

In my humble opinion, Corey is a Priest (ess,) a bringer-together of people from disparate backgrounds with loving grace.  An adventurer, a poet, a woman of incredible wisdom, generosity, and strength. I am so very grateful that we’ve met and forged a bit of a friendship. Her blog, by example, has been a beacon of light in what, for some, has been a trying time. She has gracefully shown us, with dignity and respect, how to proceed. Having guest writers is an example of her genius, slinging aside what divides us and having us all dig into what brings us together in this wild and wonderful world. Many thanks, Ms. C.

The Unexpected Finds at the Brocante

 

A glass mortar and pestle.

 

 

 

An ivory and coral choker. Incredible carving, a masterpiece but sadly not for the elephant, and far more beautiful roaming without fear than as an adornment on someone's neck.

 

 

 

Seconds after I took this photo I saw the dealer who I hadn't seen since January. We started talking and another dealer came up to us, a reunion (at a distance with masks) so happy I was to reconnect with everyone that I forgot to ask the price and walked away. But I walked away with more.

 

In the background, I hear Sacha as a teenager saying, "Our house: Chairs that you cannot sit on because they will break, mirrors you cannot see yourself in, forks and dishes that god only knows who ate their last meal..." and test yesterday he said to me, "I love our home mom and I cannot wait for you to fill mine one day."

Now that is music.

(and no I would not eat off the cracked plate, but I would put uncut fruit on it.

 

 

Never knowing what I will find at the brocante is the part that is entertaining. I know what I am looking for but often the unexpected is what finds me. 

 

Guest Post: Lisa Zimbler

 

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I am asking you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos to my email then I will post them to my blog. This will introduce you to one another.

Many of you are feeling shy, or worse not worthy as if there is a prize for the best life lived. I hope, truly hope, you will take a leap of faith in telling me and my readers about yourself, a cherished memory, a recipe, a hobby, what inspires you, what you dream about, and more importantly how are you? What are you living with or through right now?

Your story, as all of our stories, are one, interconnected by the weaver, the river, the dreamer, the wind, the path as we are on moving forward to the light. Please consider sharing a bit of yourself with me.

Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

 

...

 

 

 

Hello, my name is Lisa Zimbler and I was lucky enough to first connect with Corey in 2013. I had been scouring the internet in preparation for a month-long family trip through France when I came upon her blog, Tongue in Cheek. I was immediately drawn by her powerful and often personal insights on what appeared from my perspective to be a pretty charmed life that she and her“French Husband” led in France.  Corey’s blog combined her rich poetic musings on the blessings in life, appreciation for the everyday beauty of France along with photos of the many treasures she found at the French brocantes.

 

On a whim, I reached out to Corey through her blog, and to no surprise to those of you following, she responded. 

 

This led to a series of correspondence with Corey who generously offered suggestions on places to see and things to do in Paris, and ended with an invitation to meet for dinner while there. The night before the dinner with Corey, I warned my family that this would either be the strangest or the absolute best thing we would do on the trip.

 

Well, if you are a regular reader of this blog, you can guess what happened next. 

 

We met at one the loveliest of old bistros in Paris, Josephine Chez Dumonet (her suggestion, of course), and enjoyed an evening of easy conversation and a meal we will never forget (I still dream of their souffle). 

 

And we learned something new. 

Corey explained to us that when the French dines, they consider this a "moment", a special time for friends and family to gather, share a good meal and conversation. That's one reason service in France may seem slow. It has nothing to do with inattentive or rude service, it's simply that the French don't want you to feel rushed and respect your time dining as if it were an event, a celebration of life if you will. 

 

And it should be this way if you think about it.

 

 

We Americans often eat alone or rush through our meals to get onto something more important. If we’ve learned anything from the pandemic, we all now have a finer appreciation for the precious time spent with dear friends and family.

 

Here in France, Corey explained, “A meal is a time to cherish those you are with, to unplug, appreciate the fine food set before you, the wine poured in your glass and the efforts of the Chefs and waiters serving you.” In the traditional bistros and fine dining establishments of France, she told us that great pride is taken by these true professionals who often have an investment in the restaurant, but also understand the importance of creating a special meal, an experience, a moment for their customers that fosters goodwill and a loyal clientele.

 

 

Corey is both an amazing writer and an engaging storyteller, her facial expressions warm and animated with my two teenage daughters hanging on her every word, listening intently to her stories. And they were so impressed she actually knew who “One Direction” was (their favorite American boy band at the time)! Afterward, they both agreed, "She was really cool!"

 

Our evening with Corey was more than a moment, it was one of those rare life events we will remember fondly forever. 

 

  

 

A week later in Provence, we again met our new “French” friend, Corey, her sweet husband, Yann, and Yann’s mother, in Carpentras to go through one the largest and best brocantes (antique flea markets) in the area. With Corey's guidance, translation (and negotiation) we bought several antique treasures, some dating back to the early 18th century.  We also enjoyed spending time with Yann and Corey later that evening at our villa where we enjoyed champagne, lovely cheeses, and inspiring conversation. They shared stories of how they met and their children. 

Their generous spirit and time they spent with us was certainly one of the best "treasures" we acquired on this trip. 

Her blog posts are still one of the first things I read in the morning as they bring a sense of joy as I start my day. When I think of Corey, I marvel at how comfortably welcome we always feel in her presence. She is truly a gem of a person, someone who extends her life into so many others in a truly loving, unconditional way. A gift, a blessing.  

 

Pictured above: My daughter, Emily, and I as we dined again with Corey while on a mother/daughter writing trip to Paris in 2016 

(again at our now favorite, Josephine Chez Dumonet). 

 

 

 

 More about Lisa and her family's trip to France here.

 

 

 

_______________________________________________________

 

 

More About Lisa (I have taken the liberty to add Lisa's Website):

 

Lisa Zimbler has been in the Special Event Industry since 1989, planning and directing events in the Catering Departments of several Four Star Hotels, Restaurants/Banquet Facilities, and Country Clubs in her many years in the industry. Lisa has dedicated her entire professional career to Catering/Sales and Special Events Planning and has directed over 500 weddings and celebrations in her professional career.

 

 

Lisa's Facebook

 

Guest Post: Alan Putz

 

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I am asking you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos to my email then I will post them to my blog. This will introduce you to one another.

Many of you are feeling shy, or worse not worthy as if there is a prize for the best life lived. I hope, truly hope, you will take a leap of faith in telling me and my readers about yourself, a cherished memory, a recipe, a hobby, what inspires you, what you dream about, and more importantly how are you? What are you living with or through right now?

Your story, as all of our stories, are one, interconnected by the weaver, the river, the dreamer, the wind, the path as we are on moving forward to the light. Please consider sharing a bit of yourself with me.

Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

 

 

 

 

Corey said that she wants to host guest bloggers on her blog, French la Vie. I considered it, but Corey's blog is so positive, so beautiful. Her blog encompasses history and the collecting of that history. She writes about family and babies, home, and heart. My blog is about me and my travails in life. Not always so beautiful. But what the hell, here's a story about my partner in life Mark, and I visit Paris. Oh, and don't get me wrong. I loved Paris. It's a big city and I'm a big city boy from Chicago.

While paging through the photo album of our trip to Paris some years ago, I wondered what the hell is wrong with some Americans? Why do so many of us speak ill of the French? Why the name-calling? The truth is that we are a lot like the French. We should appreciate that both they and we are nationalistic, patriotic, and think our shit doesn't stink. In some other ways, the French are different from us. For instance, most Parisians speak two or more languages, with the second one usually being English. That, I think, is so that they can make fun of Americans like Mark and me in a language that we would understand. Yes, it did happen that they mocked us on occasion. Which was expected. We were just a couple of rubes from America after all. There were some Parisians however, who were very nice and treated us well. But that might have been because we were paying to stay at their hotel. 

While we were in Paris we visited an area known as Les Halles. We should have known something was up when the cab driver refused to drop us off in front of the club we were going to. He stopped at a corner and pointed, telling us in French to walk "Deux rues". After strolling past prostitutes, drug dealers, and all sorts of sketchy types, we finally found the little club we were looking for. We entered the front door and were stopped by the doorman who then pointed us toward what looked like a coat check room. The man at the coat check room told us that there would be a cover charge as he handed us two black, plastic garbage bags. I stood there with the bags in my hand and asked him, 

"What are these for?"  

 

"Oh, gentlemen.

Tonight is a naked night!

The bags are for your clothes."

 

Mark and I looked at each other, knowing what the answer would be, 

"No Thanks, not for us." and I handed the bags back to him. 

Though, just to be sure, I reached over and pulled the little black curtain to see if maybe it might be interesting. What I saw has been permanently

burned into my memory.

There sat two, old, wrinkle-assed men, stark naked on bar stools. They were casually having a conversation, smoking cigarettes, and sipping their drinks. I grabbed Mark by the arm and assured him that we weren't missing anything as we hastily made our exit.

 

It made me love Paris even more.

 

Alan's blog

 

Guest Post Gina Lanman

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I am asking you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos to my email then I will post them to my blog. This will introduce you to one another.

Many of you are feeling shy, or worse not worthy as if there is a prize for the best life lived. I hope, truly hope, you will take a leap of faith in telling me and my readers about yourself, a cherished memory, a recipe, a hobby, what inspires you, what you dream about, and more importantly how are you? What are you living with or through right now.

Your story, as all of our stories, are one, interconnected by the weaver, the river, the dreamer, the wind, the path as we are on moving forward to the light. Please consider sharing a bit of yourself with me.

Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

---------

 

 

 

 

 

From a young age, I was fascinated with interior design and cooking.  I loved the TV show “Little House on the Prairie”, my favorite movie was “Tess” being attracted to a simple romantic life.

 

When I was 18 years old, my father, who was a hairdresser and professional hair product company owner, hired a photographer to shoot some pictures of me for his company.  This photographer was a friend of Eileen Ford of Ford Models in NYC. He shared the photos with her and she contacted Nina Blanchard in Los Angeles, her sister agency.  Shortly after we had lunch, Nina signed me on to her agency and outlined a plan for me to go to New York in the next month.  It all moved quite quickly. I was never one who aspired to be a model, it really just landed in my lap.

 

Arriving in New York City, I lived at Eileen Ford’s, the matriarch of the fashion model industry.  I was, in a sense, in training at a sort of charm school.  Dinner at 7 pm, served by her butler, was lovely.  I remember her slamming down her hand on the table scolding a young southern girl for handing the butler her plate.  “That is what he is here for. You don’t hand him anything!”   We would go out late to clubs and parties we were invited to. There was a curfew time and many times I was late. The other girls warned me to not step on the steps in front of Eileen and Jerry’s bedroom because it creaked loudly!  I have vivid memories of heaping over all of them to be sure not to wake her.  Weekends to her Connecticut house were filled with rich memories of the east coast culture.  Eileen was a woman of utmost class. I was fortunate to be there!

 

 

 

 

During this time just arriving in New York City, there was a transit strike. I walked everywhere and really got to know the districts.  Flower markets, toy markets, garment districts, etc.  I loved knowing where to find interesting things.  At this point in my life, it is still what I love to do.  Every city I traveled to, I would seek out the artisans, flea markets, vintage markets, restaurant supplies, etc.… Of course, we all know where to find the really good high-end items and at times I do indulge, but the quest and journey to find the unusual is so much more fun!

 

After beginning my career, the next 5 years I lived between Paris – NYC – Los Angeles, however, never really staying in one place more than 2-3 weeks.  Traveling to fabulous locations, I felt blessed and privileged to have this experience.  Culturally, I developed my tastes in antiques, clothing, and food which really formed who I am today.

 

 

 

 

 

Speed forward, I married, was a stay at home mom, built my dream home, managed the property, and entertained friends and business associates for my husband.  I was doing what I dreamed to do.  When my 20-year marriage ended and my kids were off to school and on their way, I had so much time on my hands feeling rather empty.  I had an itch to travel and discover myself again.  My dear friend invited me for several summers to join her in France and Italy.  I would add a week to my stay and travel to Paris or Rome and venture out.  One year, I was in communication with Corey Amaro on her blog and she said, “I live close to St. Remy where you are staying”.  I took a leap and asked if I could rent the tiny house.  I hired Corey to take me to Brocantes and the rest is history!  I spent crazy money trying to ship my items.  I returned in a month and got better with the shipping process.  I started a new business selling paintings and curiosities from France, 

"Seen In Provence" on Etsy.

 

 

 

 

Being the international shopper that I am, I find that we are a world market these days.   All retail is getting very predictable this is why I adore shopping the Brocantes overseas. I never know what I am going to find.  Finding the unusual and bringing value to my customers brings me great pleasure.   Helping people find the right painting or accessory for the right placement is my passion.

  

 

 

 

France is my favorite place to go as the French are so detail-oriented and have great pride in most everything they do.  Brocantes, Monoprix, ethnic markets, pharmacies, market finds and the gorgeous produce all make me so happy! I love taking off on adventures each day which all include a beautiful drive,  a delectable charming lunch spot, something historically interesting, and of course shopping. My goodness, I was there a year ago for 6 weeks and I can’t wait until I can jump on a plane and go again! 

 

 

Seen In Provence on Etsy ~

 

Instagram @SeenInProvence 

 

 

 

 

Guest Post: Michelle (aka momof5)

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I have asked you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos through email.) I feel I know so many of you through the comment section and emails I hope this will introduce you to one another. Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

---------

 

 

My name is Michelle (aka momof5) and I live in Boston MA. When I first began following Corey many years ago I had 5 kids still @ home hence the name. I “discovered” Corey when I accompanied my husband (a Boston University professor) to Paris for a conference. Before we left I googled ‘Paris Antique shops” to keep myself occupied during his conference hours. One of the first things that popped up was Corey’s blog and her post about her favorite Paris antique shops. At that time I knew nothing about her but I printed out her list and visited EVERY one of those shops and soon discovered exactly why she loved them. I was hooked. A few years later I was the lucky recipient of a random blog drawing for a FREE three-day stay in her newly renovated gorgeous apartment!! What a time my husband and I had exploring her little slice of Paris! And on my last visit, I had the good fortune to meet Corey and Yann for dinner in a lovely restaurant on the water in Aix in Provence. In many ways, we have lived parallel lives as our kids are of similar ages, as well as our love of antiques. And our strong mothers ..mine is 95 and alive and well! 

 

(Photo Via Michelle's FB page in honor of nurses who have given their lives to help others during this time.)

I am a pediatric nurse, mostly retired but still work a few hours a week in Early Intervention with kids birth to three with disabilities or environmental risk. I’ve done this work for over 30 years and love the kids and families I work with. My visits are now “virtual” and I look forward to when I can see my kiddo’s in person again. 

When I thought about what to share with Corey’s readers I thought about what is important to me. When I first began following Corey I discovered how open she was to let people into her life and home whom she had NEVER met before. It seemed like a leap of faith to me. So I followed her lead by volunteering for a nonprofit called Hospitality Homes. Patients/families traveling to the Boston area for medical treatment can stay free of cost in volunteer’s homes while they receive treatment. We’ve had families stay with us from all over the globe. Some return repeatedly. I now feel like I have friends in every corner of the world. 

 

(Via Michelle's FB page)

My other loves are the city of Boston. Of all the large American cities I think Boston most resembles Europe. I volunteer with Boston By Foot giving tours of Boston to visitors to our beautiful city. I especially love the Back Bay which has the largest collection of Victorian architecture in the US. So please look up BBF if and when you visit! I’d love to give you a tour!

 

 

 

I also volunteer in finding homes for the New England Newfoundland Rescue. I’m a big dog lover (pun intended). If you’ve ever met a Newfoundland you know they are a giant breed. We have two dogs. Max a 1/2 Great Pyrenees/lab mix  and Axel, a Newfoundland.

 

 

 

(Sidenote... Michelle is one of the most active persons I know! She is a nurse, an activist, an antique dealer, mother, artist, singer, baker, gardener, volunteer, mother... and so much more...)

I sing in a large community choir which during COVID I am missing greatly. Belonging to a choir meeting over Zoom is just NOT the same. Nothing renews my spirit like singing with like-minded members/friends. 

 

 

I sell antiques in a shop with 20 vendors in Great Barrington western Massachusetts where we spend most of our summers and as many weekends as possible. It’s a beautiful part of the US and filled with early American Architecture and Antiques. 

 

 

Before COVID I loved to travel as much as possible. Three years ago my family traveled to Kenya, Africa to revisit my Peace Corps days. It was the first time I’d been back in over 40 years. It was a memorable trip
and I loved sharing my past and present with my adult kids. 

(Question: Please tell me more about your experience with the peace corps?)

The Peace Corps was started in 1961 by President John F Kennedy to provide development and economic assistance to developing countries. It was staffed by energetic and idealistic young people, many just out of college.
I joined in 1975 after two years of working in a pediatric burn unit and my job was to teach nursing to Kenyan students. At that time the syllabus was based on the Western guidelines of WHO. For me at that time, I didn’t understand teaching Western medicine when women and children were dying daily of measles, polio, rabies, and malnutrition. Access to immunizations would have improved their lives tremendously yet there I was teaching about heart disease when no one lived long enough to die of heart disease. I learned that maggots in a large burn wound was a good thing and would help to debride the wound. There is much I could say about this experience but what continues to stay with me and what I wanted to share with my family was the warmth of the Kenyan people and the animals living in their natural habitat. As a volunteer seeing a giraffe gracefully run across the road in front of me never ceased to take my breath away. Since then it’s been tough for me to see animals in zoos.
It was wonderful to return to the hospital where I worked and show it to my family. When we were walking around being given a tour by the current director, my daughter was holding up photos I had taken before and took a new photo of the same buildings. Someone stopped to ask what we were doing and my daughter said, “My Mom used to work here in the 1970s and we are taking a trip down memory lane for my mom”. They asked, “Is she still alive!” to which my daughter pointed to me and said “yes”. I became quite the celebrity given that I was still alive. Another sad fact that if you live to 65 you are very old and very lucky in Kenyan terms. I agree with the lucky part.

 

Last year at this time our daughter married at Tanglewood in the Berkshires.

(Question: Please tell me more about why your daughters are wrapped in quilts?)

My great grandmother was a mother of 6 and a teacher in a one-room schoolhouse in Missouri. For her, making quilts was a matter of keeping her family warm as well as socializing with other women at “quilting bees”. My great-grandmother and grandmother were exceptionally skilled @ hand quilting and I am fortunate to have inherited many of these beautiful quilts. The quilt that my daughters are wrapped in at the wedding was made for me by my grandmother when I was a child. It has graced both of my daughter's beds when they were young. Bringing a few of the quilts to the wedding was a way to have their memories with us even though they are no longer here. 

 

 

I’ve always loved Byzantine and Medieval art and icons in particular.  A number of years ago I thought it would be fun to take an egg tempera icon painting class. I have a tendency to do things like this without having thought of the fact I had NO painting experience. None. The teacher was an amazing man who had spent his life conserving museum icons in the Soviet Union before it collapsed and he immigrated to the US. He said he could spend 7 years repairing one ancient icon. One of his modern icons is in a chapel at Harvard. Anyway, this is my finished icon. I never got around to adding the varnish so it’s a bit chippy these days.

 

I had hoped to follow that wonderful event by doing Corey’s Brocante week in May 2020. Sadly that was postponed for now. But like many of Corey’s followers, her daily blog is the one constant in my life. Especially during this uncertain time. I’ve enjoyed reading the comments to her blog posts and feel like I “know” many of you as well

....for all of this I am thankful

Thanks for your interest, Corey. It has given me time to reflect on what I value.

—-Links—-

Hospitality Homes where I volunteer

https://hosp.org/ 

 

Michelle's choir 

https://mysticchorale.org/

 

Michelle's antique space

https://greatbarringtonantiquescenter.com/

 

Where Michelle volunteers: Newfoundland rescue organization

 https://www.newfclubne.org/rescue-and-referral/ncne-rescue-and-referral-s

 

Guest Post: Helene Louise Daniels

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I have asked you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos through email.) I feel I know so many of you through the comment section and emails I hope this will introduce you to one another. Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

---------

Hello.  I am Helene Daniels and I live in the Central Coast area of California.  I am so pleased to be asked to post an entry to Corey’s blog as she has been an inspiration to me for many years.  I can remember reading about Chelsea and Sasha who were far younger than the lovely adults they are now.  I began reading this blog long before Sasha came to California for his last year of high school.  

 

 

 

About me:  I am a maker.  Making is the consistent thread that has defined my life.  Here is a partial list of the kinds of making I do:

 

Doll clothes, wood burning kits pictures, paint by number oil paintings, 

key lanyards, leather sculpting, crochet, Makeup, hair color, crazy sweatshirts, Ceramics, sewing clothes, Art school art, watercolors, painting,

baking bread, cooking meals, having babies, planting gardens, Halloween   Painterly photos, Murals, landscape design, murals, designing gardens, knitting, slideshow presentations of gardens Teaching landscape design, jewelry, roll painting, etching, reticulation, graduation, enameling, wire knitting, tinsmithing, toolmaking: tinsmithing, wire, granulation, landscape design, tin crowns, chasing and repousé...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Making began when I was a child growing up in Marin County, California.  It continued throughout my life, as an Art Major in college, and then as a professional artist, first as a graphic artist in New York City and then as a landscape designer in California. I designed over 300 gardens in this part of California. Then I organized that experience and information into a semester class that I taught at the local college for three years.  

 

 

 

 

Helene and her beautiful creations

 

 

 

 

 

Presently, I am retired and my making includes jewelry of all types.  Some of these can be viewed on my website:  HeleneDanielsDesigns.com or Instagram @helenelouisedaniels.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I live in the home my husband and I build 43 years ago in a valley called Corral de Tierra on the Monterey Peninsula.  This country house is full of family many of whom live with us.  Three generations are living and sharing this space: my husband I; our daughter and her husband; and our two grandchildren.  There is the main house, a greenhouse, a big barn with a workshop, winery, my art studio, and a “yurt” that is a framed round building attached to the main house where my husband and I have our quiet space.  

And yes, right now California is burning.  Two weeks ago we received a fire Evacuation Order because one of the many fires burning came too close to our rural valley.  Mercifully, the fire turned and spared our valley but there has been terrible destruction in our garden.

 

 

 

Family photo three generations.

 

 

 

Here are a few photos of our We travel frequently, sometimes with my husband’s choir which performs in many places in Europe.  Most recently we spent a week traveling in Umbria, Italy with our yoga teacher, Thomas Fortel.  On one of our trips, we had a quick visit with Corey and Yann in the south of France.  There we enjoyed their beautiful home and wonderful hospitality.  We picked up the keys to their apartment in Paris where we stayed the following week.  The apartment is a treasure beyond imagination.  It is decorated with the antiques that Corey has collected and is located in the perfect neighborhood in Paris.  It is in the 14th arrondissement where regular Parisians go about their daily business.  There is a wonderful bakery across the street, a flower market, and restaurants nearby.  The metro stop is two blocks away and will whisk you to any part of Paris in minutes.

 

 

Thank you Corey for including me in your blog.

 

 

Guest Post Barbara Willis

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I have asked you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life (please send your story and JPEG photos through email.) I feel I know so many of you through the comment section and emails I hope this will introduce you to one another. Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek. 

____________

 

 

 

 

 

 

For 14 years I had a stand at the Alexander Palace in London for their knitting and stitching show.  After teaching and manning the stand for 4 days I would treat myself to a week in Paris to hunt the brocantes for treasures.  Lucky for me the French keep everything and are rich in the textiles that I so dearly love.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

When I met Corey Amaro she opened a whole new dimension of hunting for vintage textiles.  She showed me the beautiful landscape of southern France while on our way to fabulous brocantes, French artist's studios, and the southern French lifestyle.  I am blessed to have found her, call her my friend, and am charmed by all she does and is!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I love sharing the process of using vintage/antique textiles calling it a "second debut" to give these treasures a new life on my artwork.  So many of these treasures can end up in less than loving hands and I am dedicated to saving them one creation at a time in my studio and in classrooms far and wide.

 

 

 

 

 

 

My handmade artwork and dolls are one of a kind handmade pieces using personally found/selected antique and vintage supplies sourced mostly in France and England.

 

 

 

Gloria, Barbara waving, and Corey at a brocante with the French la Vie 2019

 

 

Thank you, France for creating an atmosphere that cherishes and values so many of the things that I have loved for so long, and thank you Corey Amaro for blazing the trails of France and sharing them so freely.

 

 

 

 

 

Some Questions:

 

 

Where do you find inspiration for your creative flow?

 

I love soft vintage colors and textures they lead my way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What do you look for at the brocantes for your art? Is there a certain style or design, shape??

 

Laces, ribbons, vintage fabrics.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do you have a blog? Where will you teach next? Do you teach online classes?

 

I do not have a blog but my website is barbarawillisdesigns.com and I am on Facebook under my name Barbara Willis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tell me about the Master Class that you taught in Prague? How did they find out about you?

 

I taught a gallery owner from Prague at one time at the Knitting and stitching show in London. We also met at a textile show I was doing in Saint Marie aux Mine. She loves cloth dolls and other doll forms. She puts on a large show with a few masterclasses each fall and asked me to come to teach for her.  I met her for the first time at a show I was doing in Saint Marie aux mine and she was very interested in kits and patterns I was selling there.

 

 

 

 

(Barbara made and gifted this to Chelsea for Gabriel)

 

 

 

(Corey's sidenote: Barbara wrote about these handmade sewing tool holders on her website. Her doll patterns and the above sewing tool holders can be purchased on her website.

 

This handy Victorian Slipper will house your favorite scissors and keep your pins and needles close at hand.
This shoe opens like a book and within the pages, you will keep your needles, pins, and safety pins.
All adorned in delicious Victorian looking trims and ribbons and buttons.

Your finished Slipper will measure 6 and 1/2 inches.)

 

 

 

 

Do you sell your art or do commissions? If so how do I contact you?

 

I generally do not sell my work but will on occasion.  I have always primarily been focused on sharing the process of cloth doll making and textile collage.

 

(Sidenote: Barbara is so humble! I have added links to the books she has published showing you how to create dolls.)

 

 

Patterns available here.

 

 

I have taught for over 33 years in the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, England, and Prague.

Due to COvio 19, all my classes have been canceled until we are in a clear health-wise.  But people or groups can contact me via email or on my site barbarawillisdesigns.com

 

 

Did you study art or design or are you self-taught?

 

Yes, I am self taught.

 

Barbara Willis

Cloth Doll Artist

 

Facebook

 

Northern California

Guest Blogger Susan Worral

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate that I have asked you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life I feel I know so many of you through the comment section and emails, I hope this will introduce you to one another. Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek.

_______

 

 

 

Good morning Corey from our little piece of paradise on the West Coast of Canada.  I have become a big fan during these pandemic times.  I wish you lived next door.

 

 

Back in January, I knew something big was coming.  It was an uneasy feeling that had me feeling panicked.  I wanted my mom who died 5 years prior. This may sound strange but I sat up one night and checked the ephemeris. I am not an astrologer at all but I figured the "stars" could tell me something. And they did.  They told me there would be unsettling times for several months. So, surprisingly, I started to relax. Nothing I could do.

 

 

 

 

 

I run a small bookkeeping service from home and have done for close to 30 years.  My husband is a woodworker/joiner and together we live on Saltspring Island. 

 

When I first got that uneasy feeling, I took stock of the cupboard.  What do we need? What will we use? Over the next couple of months, as things began to shut down, and, as people bought all the flour Einkorn, yeast and toilet paper, I purchased grains and legumes in bulk.  I researched and purchased a mill and immediately started making my own flour and bread. 

 

Life is good if you have bread. 

 

From last summer, I had many berries and figs in the freezer so I began to make jams to use up those fruits before summer came on.  Bread and jam!

 

I walk but not enough. Ride my stationary bike. Sometimes, I do yoga. Watch my weight. And cook.

 

 

 

 

 

In the meantime, I continued to work.  My choir had shut down in March but we continued to get together through Zoom.  Not satisfactory but a way of connecting.  Our lovely choral director gave us a master class every week.  When the weather started getting better, we got together outside in a park and sang.  Social distancing of course.  Some masked. 

 

I also play with a ukulele group called Ukulele Ladies and Ian (7 women + Ian).  Sometimes called the Mother Pluckers.  We have split into groups of 4 and have gotten together most weeks to play and sing and talk. 

 

Our choir has started getting together again and we run "sectionals" with 4 - 6 people in a very large church with doors and windows open and spread out so that we can safely sing without infecting one another.  

 

 

 

 

 

Life carried on.  I have a daughter who lives 2 ferry rides and several highway km.  I saw her for the first time in August and don't know when I'll see her again.  Travelling the ferries is scary.  We don't know when we'll see each other again.  I also have 2 step sons who live close by and we see them occasionally but it's definitely not the same.  With our rainy season coming on, my husband, the "best person in the whole world to be isolated with" is building a cover for our deck which will allow us to have more social evenings safely.  

 

 

 

But, how do I feel?  It depends.  Last week, I threw up my hands and said I'm done.  I'm done with the sadness and the negativity and the conspiracy theories.  I was lucky enough to have a friend visit me the next day and we discussed this.  It's the 6 month mark in this project we call a pandemic.  All major projects hit a wall at 6 months and I believe we all have.  Some people go inward and get sad.  Some are acting out.  As I was putting my friend on the bus to go back to the ferry, I said "maybe I should go back to coaching" and she said "why don't you?".  That seed started sprouting.  I trained as a business coach years ago so I decided to put that training and my knowledge of bookkeeping together and start a business training people to do their own books.  I have some certifications to go through.  The website is in progress.  I am happy there is some movement forward.  But honestly, inwardly, I want to put my head down and just howl.  

 

Susan  

 

 

 

 

Photos: Here's a few that hopefully tell the story.  My husband Chris who is also called Ramanand.  Tansi the dog who is always happy.  The Roof Template for the covered deck and our last concert in January before everything hit. I am second from left in front.  And, no I don't dye my hair!  Lots of wrinkles and lines but little grey. The cake is actually my Italian grandmother's recipe made with fresh milled Einkorn. 

 

 

 

Questions to Susan:

 

 

 

 

 

What type of the mill do you use? Nutrimill.

 

 

 

Tell me more about your interest in Astrology?

 

My interest in astrology goes back to 1978! It was then that I met a friend who had studied it extensively. I got my hands on many books and from there instinctively knew that all matters of life on earth aligned with the heavens. So in January, when I felt that overwhelming fear, looking at the aligning of the planets, it gave me a strange peace. This too shall pass is the mantra I learned from my Mim which was a devout.  I would never advise anyone. 

 

 

 

Do you have a recipe? And or your grandmother's?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our living / music room

 

 

Your life in Saltspring seems peaceful and creativity, a gentle life ...

 

 

Saltspring Island is a quiet place. My favorite walk is along the Fernwood waterfront.  One tree is particular is where all the birds congregate - spring and fall they are at their finest. There's a small cafe where everyone gathers on the lawn where we have wonderful coffees and the very best pastries made by Jana.

Right now I dash between processing veggies. This has been an abundant squash year so it's either one of many squash dishes, ratatouille,  or stuffed with einkorn. No recipes. Right now I'm going to try  lacto-fermented butternut squash with sage. If it doesn't explode it should be delicious (or so they say). I also cut and freeze to be added to soups in winter. I also practice singing choral pieces and the ukulele. See friends at a distance at music and a weekly dog walk or two.

Mostly quiet. 

 

Guest Blogger Ella Dyer

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate that I have asked you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life I feel I know so many of you through the comment section and emails, I hope this will introduce you to one another. Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek.

 

 

 

 

 

Dear Corey,

 

Bonjour and thank you again for your blog and the delightful community you have built around it, your family, and your caring spirit. Some day we will meet but until then, here is a bit about me.

 

My superstar spouse Jody and I found our flat in France 20 years ago; each year, I have spent more and more time here. This year, after a long, uncomfortable seven months in America, I decided to live in France fulltime only for brief visits back in the future. 

 

 

This was not an easy decision, especially since my sweet hubby prefers America, but one made for my emotional and mental well-being. I joke that my 60's are my selfish decade rather, it is truly my decade of self-care. 

 

With the exception of our son, who thinks we should move-in/near him, everyone in the family -- four generations -- is supportive (albeit they may have not fully grasped my decision). From my beautiful aunt and <<belle-mère>> to our youngest granddaughter, they all join me in weekly family phone time. 

 

 

 

 

 

These three photos are of just one of my many happy places here in Nice. La plage, a 3-minute walk from our apartment in Centre Ville remains a gift for this California girl. Here, I have found my encore career -- helping others find their forever home or pied de terre -- and attend l'université de la Côte d'Azur in my goal to be a life-long learner.

 

May my brief but sincere story be of some support to others facing life in these uncertain times. 

 

Have a good week, 

Ella

 

 

Author of Nice in Nice

Ella wrote a book about her experience in Nice

Now available via an e-book; soon en français. Proceeds go to Les Petites Sœurs des Pauvres à Nice, where I volunteer.

 

Learn more about Ella and her book here on House Hunter's International Apres Midi.

 

 

 

Questions I asked Ella:

 

- I have had readers ask me how they can live in France, what do they need to do. Can you share how you came to live in France? ​Several years ago, I had the good fortune to begin my encore career with The Adrian Leeds Group (based in Paris for 25 years; most Americans will know her via House Hunters International). As a search consultant, I help our clients find flats for rent or, purchase. Unfortunately, until border restrictions lift for Americans, our clients, (some who have bought based on our visits and recommendations alone) are unable to enter Europe.

 

We suggest everyone to continue to follow the Embassy in their area for updates and apply for a visa as soon as possible. 

 

Jody has traveled to France for 40 plus years; me only 35 but, my Mother is part French so the Côte d'Azur is in my DNA (literally!). We bought our flat as a pied-de-terre but, over the years I've realized I belong here full-time. 

 

 

- How did you come to live in Nice what helped you decide? ​Nice has everything for us and as a California girl, the beaches and mountains make me feel at home. It is also very easy to access almost all destinations. Jody has used a manual wheelchair for 55+ years and we found Nice, especially public transport, to be very accommodating for such mobility differences. 

 

 

- What do you miss other that family and friends about not living in the USA? ​Rien. Seriously, I never even think of America except when saying my prayers and asking the Universe for peace. The children, grandchildren, and all other friends and family members are wonderful about keeping in touch.

 

- What would you say are some important factors to have in helping make a decision to move abroad? ​Research and to know what lifestyle you want whether it be for annual vacations or, retirement. If you play a sport (unlike me) make sure you have access to such facilities. Get comfortable with being a big ignorant; abroad is not your homeland and almost nothing works the same so save yourself the trouble of comparisons. Stay open to all you learn each and every day; it's an adventure and challenge that keeps us on our toes. By all means, learn the local language and all you can about the culture/traditions. Immerse yourself and let your loved ones know you're following your dream.

 

And never give up on good news, keep searching for solutions; my husband arrives soon grâce à mon visa. 

 

 

Guest Post by Jennifer Phillipps

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I have asked you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life I feel I know so many of you through the comment section and emails I hope this will introduce you to one another. Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek.

 

Our Home in New Zealand

 

Greetings Corey,

I have been reading with you and about you for many years now and so it is nice to send through something from the other side of the world to share.

 

I live in the South Island of New Zealand/Aotearoa and the town is called Nelson.  The population of around 52,000.  We are known for our crafts/artists/wine and food and being on Tasman Bay at the top of the South Island.

 

I have a husband/partner of 24 years who originally came to NZ from Wales, I am a regular “Kiwi” gal of 61 years of age.  I was born in the North Island on the East Coast in a town of a similar size but grew up in the Capital City of Wellington, the centre of our Parliament.

 

 

 

 

Coronet Peak is in the midst of a three-day spring snowstorm with 15cm of fresh snow on Tuesday morning.

 

 

We are meant to be going towards summer, but the country has been plunged into a spring storm with lots of snow blanketing many parts of the country.

The stormy last few days the countryside in the South Island’s lower reaches was covered in snow, sadly this has affected lambing, as many lambs are due now, so the farmers are counting their losses, which is always very heart wrenching, but at least one good thing has come from the cold, families are on holiday here for school break, we are pretty much Covid free so they are free to travel and the fresh snow means families can hit the slopes and have fun in the snow

 

 

 

 

New Zealand

 

 

 

 

 

Grasse France

 

 

 

 

 

Burano, Italy

 

 

 

 

 

Marche Aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Paris

 

 

 

 

 

Africa

 

 

I have traveled quite widely with my husband as we work on economic development consulting we traveled each year for a number of years. Needless to say I have many images of my favourite spots around the world. One being Venice and of course Paris, where I made a point of celebrating my 50th Birthday. My husband and I had a lovely stay in Grasse some years back, using it as a base to explore the area prior to an international conference in Lyon, so we did a fair bit of driving and enjoying some of your part of the world on that occasion. However, in recent years I have not traveled as much, preferring to stay home, rather than travel so often.  Now, of course with Covid19, travel is off for this part of the world and so my husband is happily at home too, working via Zoom calls instead, as many people are.

 

 

 

I thought I had cruised through menopause until the anxiety thing kicked in and I ended up in a sort of depressive fog for a short time, not helped by my husband being in Palestine doing economic development work and talking about the threat of kidnap et al, so I think it was a perfect storm of too much going on, followed closely by the total lock down here and other places in the world for Covid19 which was a shock to us all.  In the end the time together in lock down here in NZ was beneficial and I am so much better than I was at that time….life gives us these “lemons” but we just have to work through them and head towards the light

 

 

 

 

 

My home collection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I enjoy photography in particular but have a fondness for many things that you often talk about…the thrill of finding interesting things at markets/second-hand shops and even Opportunity Shops as we call them here, charitable stores…which I find things in and also donate to.  I am an avid scavenger for textiles/crafts from around the world, with textiles, in particular, a favourite thing to find, so our house is full of many treasures.

 

The above photos include some old pieces, mostly African, certainly ethnic as there is a wonderful Navajo basket I got when driving from San Francisco to Portland via Yosemite (I am a big Ansel Adams fan). I have a collecting bug! I have Murano glass from the 1950s in another spot and lots of New Zealand pottery. The lovely owl in the middle came from my Africa travels and is from Zimbabwe, a real favourite I struggled to bring home in my luggage as it is a bit bulky.

 

 

We have a lovely small dog to walk each day, our little city is very compatible with that, and we enjoy traveling around our South Island in particular with our dog as a companion.  

 

I am a step Mum to one, having lost my stepdaughter too early, she was a special needs person with a number of issues, she did not speak (was very good at some sign language, as her means of communication), and had limited brain development, but was a lover of music.  She was well-loved and encouraged with her passion for music, as much as was possible and she had a very full and happy life. 

 

 

 

New Zealand

 

 

We live in a large, oldish house, about 100 yrs old, but not old compared to many in your part of the world.  We are thinking about downsizing for retirement and even where we might live, so that is something present in our thoughts just now, heightened by the Covid virus and being in our homes more of recent months…so it is an ongoing item of interest….where to from here?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Well, I think that is a little slice of my life to share, I am sure I could ramble on longer, but this is enough to get things rolling.  I included some images I have taken of where I live and bits of NZ we love, to give you a sense of “Our Place” at the bottom of the world.

 

Cheers and stay well as you head into the wintery weather,

Jennifer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I will have to take a photo of me, for another time, I am not so good at having pictures taken of myself, preferring the landscape photos instead.

 

    Cluster Navigators Limited www.clusternavigators.com Nelson 7010 | New Zealand

 

Jennifer posts some fun-loving videos on her Facebook here is one that made me smile, as accents I know can cause confusions...

 

Guest Post by Denise Moulun Pasek

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate I have asked you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life I feel I know so many of you through the comment section and emails I hope this will introduce you to one another. Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek.

 

 

An Old Story and a New Recipe

 

Hi, my name is Denise and I am the main character in the “panty lady” story that graced the columns of the French La Vie blog a few years ago. 

 

 

 

You may remember that one day, when Corey and Yann came to lunch at our place in Cotignac, Yann did what he always does and went out the French doors straight onto the terrace to take in the little stream that ran alongside our apartment to breathe in the fresh air and maybe to hop over the stream and take a few fat, fresh figs off the tree by the stream.  That day, while he was taking in the natural beauty, he spotted an unusual black mass laying perilously close to the stream. Within seconds he had hopped over the railing and retrieved the offending object which he brandished with glee upon re-entering the apartment.  He had found an errant pair of my panties that had no doubt flown off the clothes drying rack.  Needless to say, I was horrified.

 

 

(Side Note... Denise aka Panty Lady and Weenis Rubber)

So, on another note, here is my version of my new favorite appetizer recipe. Had we gone to France this year as was our habit, I would have looked forward to serving this dish to Corey and Yann knowing that they would have loved it and eaten it ALL.

 

In these particular times we are living in, you might think of making little individual plates of this easy, delicious dish.  Although you might think that it is a summer dish, it can be served at any time because this dish contains sunshine, good on any day of the year.

 

Photo via Taste Love and Nourish

 

 

Loaded Hummus

Loaded hummus can be served as an appetizer or as a main if you include a green salad. You can make a lot or a little and can change it according to what you find in your refrigerator and pantry.

 

Ingredients for a large Loaded Hummus for 8 to 10 people as an appetizer

Garlic or regular hummus about 11/2 – 2 cups

Roasted red pepper (from a jar) cut in strips about 1/3 cup

Mixed olives (I have used Kalamata, green, small, large) 1/3 cup

Cherry/grape tomatoes cut in half about 1/3 cup

Crumbled Feta about 1/3 cup

Parsley, chopped, about 1- 2 Tbsps.

Roasted pine nuts a little less than ¼ cup

Garlic oil 2+ Tbsps.

Zaatar about 1 – 2 tsp.

Method

Take a large-ish platter say 15 inches long by 10 inches wide and spread the hummus unevenly all over the platter leaving a 1-inch space all around the perimeter. I like the unevenness because it adds interest to the topography of the dish and offers the guest peeks and vales of deliciousness…

Next, spread olives and tomato pieces artistically over the hummus then, arrange the red pepper strips in between the olives and tomato pieces.  Don’t be afraid to leave some bare spots as this too adds interest.

After establishing a good foundation of a comfy, colorful bed of hummus and veggies, sprinkle the feta and parsley all over.  Finally, putting your thumb over the opening of the olive oil bottle, sprinkle a little oil (or more if you like) over most or all of the dish and crown the with a good sprinkling of Zaatar for looks and depth of flavor. 

Serve with naan bread, crackers, Italian bread, or toasted pita bread.  Your people will fall to their knees in appreciation.

Variations: Add some slices of hearts of palm or edamame beans or anything else you might have in your refrigerator.  Don’t have Zaatar?  Add a little Sumac or a little garlic powder or finely chopped garlic if you don’t have garlic oil. If you like things hot, think of adding a little hot sauce or chili oil…

 

Denise and her husband Vlad.

 

 

Denise's Baked Garlic in Broth

 

Another favorite recipe 

I  (Corey) have had roasted garlic before, but never served still intact such as the photo above shows. The broth was an added taste pleasure. Vlad told us to dip our sliced baguette into the broth and then place a clove of garlic on top. Denise served a salad, cheese and wine as well.

Recipe for Roasted Garlic by Denise

Take 7 or 8 heads of garlic and cut off the top 1/4 to expose the cloves.
Set the heads of garlic in an oven-proof dish and dot them with butter.
Sprinkle the heads with herbes de Provence and 4 or 5 tablespoons of olive oil.
Add 1 to 1 1/2 cup of vegetable broth, and 1/2 cup of white wine.
Roast in a slow to medium oven for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until the tops of the heads
of garlic start to brown.
Best when eaten warm by picking out the cloves of garlic and spreading them on baguette. or French bread.

Roquefort can be added along with the butter for a little added taste.

 

Denise Moulun Pasek 

Facebook

Embracing Joy

Star Light

 

A constant about life

everything

changes and is changing

stars burn brightly

 

 

 

Guest Post by Rebecca Carvin aka RebeccaNYC

This November my blog will be 16 years old. To celebrate that I have asked you my readers to submit a Guest Post for my blog as a way of celebrating our connectedness as a community through social media. 

I hope you will send me your story or at least a glimpse into your life I feel I know so many of you through the comment section and emails, I hope this will introduce you to one another. Thank you in advance for being part of French la Vie / Tongue in Cheek.

 

_______

 

 

 

I am beyond honored to be Corey’s first ever guest blogger!  I’ve been following Corey Amaro for more years than I can remember, first with her blog (when it was called “Tongue in Cheek” which it still is called in my bookmarks…), then on Instagram and now on Facebook.  Over the years we have become friends, which is so strange because we have never met each other. You start chatting from miles away and before you know it, you’re friends.   

 

 

 

 

Corey asked me to talk about my career, which is really an unusual one.  I’m one of 80 full-time choristers at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.  As a chorister, I sing in the chorus of every assigned opera in English, French, Italian, Russian, Czech, German, Sanskrit, and American Profanity. I stand for hours on raked stages while wearing outrageously uncomfortable costumes and (sometimes) two-foot tall wigs. The Met Opera performs about 24 operas a year, with nighttime performances Monday through Saturday and matinees on Saturday and many Sundays.  We perform at night and rehearse during the day.  A typical day starts at 10 am and ends just before midnight.  I perform at the highest level of my industry with pride.  It’s been a wild 24 years.

 

 

 

How did this all start, and how in the world does someone end up singing full-time in one of the largest Opera Houses in the world?  My parents tell me that I was singing and matching pitch before I could even talk.   My father was a Baptist Minister in Princeton NJ, where there was so much wonderful choral music, thanks to Westminster Choir College which is located near the campus of Princeton University.  So, I grew up hearing that, and as soon as I could stand up and behave myself properly, I was singing in the children’s choir of my father’s church.  It was my favorite activity, and I sang all the time.  My very first solo performance was in that church when at the age of about 10,  I sang Handel’s “Where E’re You Walk” and Purcell's “Passing By” for the Mother-daughter banquet.  With a doting audience and rave reviews, it was an auspicious start...and I was hooked.

 

When my family moved to Ohio, I started High School and began singing in the choir. Ohio has a great tradition of High School Choral competitions, and I started participating in them and also High School Solo competitions early on.   I was no big winner, but this experience was a huge advantage in learning how to control my nerves in future auditions.  By the time I had to do auditions professionally, I had been doing it for years.

 

From there I went to Ohio University in Athens OH intending to study Music Therapy.  Before the end of my first semester, my teachers convinced me that I should really be studying voice and preparing for a career in Music.  So that’s what I did.  I studied, won competitions, sang several roles with the Opera Theater and had a blast.  Being a big fish in a small pond is a great way to build confidence in a performer.

 

When I graduated from college, I moved to Philadelphia and lived with my sister and brother-in-law and their new baby for several months and found my way to Temple University, where I met my teacher, Dr Christine Anderson.  Chris is the person who really taught me the technique I depend on today.   To pay for Grad school, I got a job at a local hospital as an Admissions Clerk, which I discovered I loved.  I would go to school during the day, and I would work the evening shift at the hospital. It was great fun, but after a while, I was broke and exhausted and I left school.  Every good success story has some forks in the road, right?  This one is mine.

 

 

After I left school, I worked my way through positions of greater responsibility in the field of Health Care until I ended up at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in the Department of OB/GYN.  I was hired to manage a Federal Grant intended to reduce infant mortality in West Philadelphia.  It was important, invigorating work, and I loved it.  Of course, during this time, I was still singing.  I had found a home with the Choir of the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, and I was very happy.  But after 10 years of Mom and Dad asking when I was going to get back to pursuing my singing career,  I contacted my teacher and began again.  I took lessons with Chris, I worked with Vocal Coaches, I took language and movement classes and I continued working part-time so I could pay for all of it.  I studied privately for a few years and then started auditioning. Believe it or not, one of the first auditions I did was for the Chorus of the Metropolitan Opera. There were 400 people at that audition but I knew something was right, and it was.  When they hired me, I left my job and home in Philadelphia and moved to New York City.  I have been a full-time employee at the Met ever since.

 

 

 

 

What’s it like being a full-time chorister?  IT’S HARD WORK.  It’s also incredibly exciting.  You work hand in hand with a very large group of people.  You spend all your time together making this incredible art in very close quarters.  Singer’s personalities tend to be very big, so there is a lot of negotiating that mine-field. Tempers inevitably flare, but so does deep love and appreciation for each other.  The costumes are hot, heavy, and cumbersome.  But also incredibly detailed and beautiful.  If you had told me when I was 10 years old that I would have over 20 ball gowns custom built for me to wear on stage while I was singing...I would never have believed you. It’s a real dream come true, even with all the sweat and tears, and aching back knees and feet.

 

 

A typical day starts with a morning rehearsal on stage, blocking a scene with the actors and sometimes the soloists.  This can be tedious, but also a lot of fun.  We portray gypsies, noblemen and women, peasants (so many peasants) nuns, priests, imaginary characters,  you name it, we have done it.   When the first stage rehearsal is over for the day, we will either have a musical rehearsal with our boss, Chorus Master Donald Palumbo or have another staging rehearsal.  We rehearse several operas at the same time, so it is not unusual at all to switch gears between languages, styles, and eras in one day.  How do we keep it all straight?  I have no idea.  We just do.  We’re all highly trained professional singers, and keeping all the balls in the air at once is just something that comes naturally at this point.  Oh, did I mention that last season we actually had to learn to juggle for the production of Philip Glass’s Ahknaten?  Yep, singing some of the most challenging music we have learned, in a language none of us know (anybody ever study Ancient Egyptian?) we had to juggle.  We had so much fun.  I am happy to report that we kept almost all the balls in the air.

 

 

When rehearsal for the day is done, we’ll have a break of several hours where we can manage the things that need to be done in our private lives.  For some people that’s an exercise class, running errands, or taking a much-needed nap.  For others, it’s rushing home to be with the kids for a few hours.  Then it’s back to work to prepare for that night’s performance.  Every day is different. Not every opera has a chorus and not every opera that has a chorus requires all of us.  So, we can have long stretches of 7 shows a week with daily rehearsals, long stretches of no work at all, or a million different combinations of that schedule.  Time off is precious, and we get very little of it during the season.  Our time off is during May, June, and July when the opera house is taken over by the American Ballet Theater.  We normally go back to work in August, beginning with daily musical rehearsals, learning the music for that season.

 

 

 

Normally at this time, I would be in the first week of the new season.  But of course, last March, the Metropolitan Opera closed.  We were paid for the remainder of the month, and our health coverage is in place for the duration of the pandemic, but that was all.  We were devastated, but hopeful that by the time the summer was over, we would be back to work as usual.  That was not to be.  On Tuesday we learned that the entire 2020-2021 season has been canceled.  I am one of the fortunate ones.  I have been at the Met long enough to be eligible to retire with a pension, but many of my younger colleagues are not as secure, and these are scary times for them.  I have not yet decided if I will retire or not, but I might not have a choice.  It’s a sad way to end a long and wonderful career, but if that’s how it works out, I will have no regrets.  It’s been an experience of a lifetime.

 

 

So, what’s next?  I have had a long love affair with France.  I've been studying French since the 6th grade and singing in French since High School, so I have a deep love of the language.  But I did not visit France until 2002 when I went to St Victor-la-Coste to work on a project restoring a medieval castle.  I loved it so much I went two summers in a row.  When I met my husband Stephen, I asked if he wanted to go with me and rent a house near Uzès for a month.  We have been returning to the Uzès area almost every summer since.   Our plan has always been to live there for at least a year when I retire, so when France finally opens up to US citizens, I can think of no better time to go and to start a whole new chapter of this incredible adventure.  And maybe it’s time I finally met Corey, and give her a really long overdue hug.

 

I asked Rebecca ...

Which was your favorite opera to sing?

 

My favorite opera to sing changes from season to season.  I have to say that my favorites have been the modern ones.  "Satyagraha" by Philip Glass and "The Death of Klinghoffer" by John Adams touched something in me so deeply, that I found myself in tears during performances.  The modern operas I have done have always challenged me musically and I have loved that experience.  I love the work of a very young composer Nico Muhly, and the experience of singing the words "SHUT THE F-CK UP" over and over again during the opera "Two Boys" is something I will always remember.   Last season we performed "Ahknatan" by Philip Glass and it was so hard to learn, and I got to learn to juggle while wearing an enormous beetle on my head.  It does not get better than that.

 

 

What was your favorite opera to dress for?

 

 

 

 

 

Well, the aforementioned beetle on my head is hard to beat.  But my favorite costume to wear has definitely changed over the years.  At first, it was the huge elaborate ball gowns with the tight corset and elaborate wig that I loved.  Now, I am all about comfort and the benefits of a wimple cannot be overstated.

 

 

Who are some of your favorite leads?

 

Again, this changes year to year, and there are always new incredible artists to discover.  Some of my favorites are unsung heroes of the opera world, like Mezzo-Sopranos Wendy White and Maria Zifcheck and tenors Mark Schowalter and Tony Stevenson.  Always on point, incredible singing actors and colleagues,  but rarely the stars, (although they should be!) they, like the chorus, are the glue that keeps the opera together.

 

What is your favorite opera to listen to?

 

You might be surprised to know that I don't really listen to opera.  It is in my head and in my life so much, that I really need a break from it.  When I listen to music, it is a small chamber ensemble choral music.  Voces 8, The Tallis Scholars, Seraphic Fire, and the Nordic Chamber Choir are some favorites.  I also love ancient liturgical chant, and if you find me on the subway with headphones on, I am probably listening to the Monks of The Abbey of Sant'Antimo in Montalcino, Italy singing the chanted liturgy of the hours.  

 

Please follow Rebecca on Instagram under 

https://www.instagram.com/mybackstageopera/?hl=en

 

Autumn Table Top

Let Your Story Be Told

 

Let your story be told

in words that sing the notes that brought you here, with melodies that weave your days into song. Let us hear it, all the notes hi and lows, and the note that carried you through.

Please, I want to hear about you:

Do you cook, do you play a sport, are you suffering, do you care for your parents, are you married, do you have a dream, a poem, a hobby, are you longing for something, how are you today and yesterday, what is the weather like, do you plant a garden, have a secret, a fear, are you good at telling jokes, what drives you crazy, if you could ____ would you?

 

 

If you would like to share something on my blog, please send me an email with your text, photos are welcomed, so are links. It can be as simple or as elaborated as you would like. But not political. A recipe, a poem, artwork, a story, as long as it tells me a bit about you.

Thank you for joining me!

xxx

 

 

 

Going to Try Something New

Going to try something new on my Blog, I do not know why I hadn’t  thought of it before. After 15 years of blogging I think I should have thought of it. 

My idea is to feature readers of my blog. Intentionally I will ask some of you who have been reading my blog since time began for French la Vie. What I hope is that each person will write whatever they want a poem, a story, about themselves, their hopes or ideas on whatever as a way for us to know each one better.

Comments have lead many of you to each other especially through Instagram or Facebook. This will give us a bigger picture as to who we are on this blog, a closer look to the many beautiful, soulful, talented, lovely people that you are. 

Hopefully, you will share a few photos too!

If you would like to be part of this... please say yes why not! ... send me an email with whatever you would like to post about yourself.

 

i cannot I

Daily Walk Saint Pons in Gemenos

 

 

 

Shout Out to Victoria Magazine

Kindness shared

Pumpkin Harvest

Cinderellas I have watched you grow on the vine, snuggled in the dirt, full and ripe

Stacked on the blue truck away you go

 

 

 

 

Pumpkin Harvest

Cinderellas I have watched you grow on the vine, snuggled in the dirt, full and ripe

Stacked on the blue truck away you go

 

 

 

 

A Legend RGB

Petal by Petal

 

Petal by petal

your fragrance a soothing strength

unfolding with consistency 

though your depth surpasses such a mundane word

eternal beauty,

poetic boldness,

even in your elegance

your protective thorns set the boundaries

though hinder not your graceful strength.

... and let us be the petal, the fragrance, the rose that rises above the thorns.

 

 

 

 

You Are Not Alone

    As I pushed Gabriel in his stroller I read,

“You are not alone”

on a building’s wall. Not three yards away was a man gathering his belongings; Several empty plastic bottles, a massive soiled plastic sheet that appeared to be his home, and a rag for a blanket. His clothes barely hung on him.

Barefoot.
Unruly hair and beard.
He was alone.

I followed him as he walked passed the sign on the wall to the park where he filled his water bottles, then stowed his measly vital belongings under a bush then headed to the dumpster where he opened bags not being choosy he ate whatever scraps he found plus put some in a separate bag for later I assumed.

My thoughts paced with poverty, wealth, mental illness, tangled with guilt, sadness, frustration.

He is alone unnecessarily on a planet of billions, in the City of Lights, near a woman and child while surviving by eating out of a dumpster.
I gave him what I had some money which seemed meaningless in the gravity of his need.

He was still alone as I pushed Gabriel’s stroller to the play area.

 

 

Be the Love You Seek

Daily Dose of Nature’s Beauty

What I Found Online

Listening Beyond Words

 

Babies when they hear a sound they usually stop what they are doing and listen at the same time they look around for recognition that they have recognized a familiar or new sound.

When Gabriel hears a sound he knows or a new sound he stops- he looks- he listens- he looks around to see who has noticed what he has heard. Registering sounds go on for days and days and days as he finds those sounds within him - finding his voice one sound after another.

Gabriel recognizes sounds such as a motorcycle, a car, his footsteps, the church bell, and he points towards the sound that he hears such as a plane he looks to us to define it, those sounds, we confirm with, “Yes, that’s a motorcycle zroom zroom.” Or, “Yes, Gabriel that’s a bird.” He is pleased with affirmed acknowledgment. That is one way he learns.

Though there are plenty of sounds, an orchestrate of daily sounds such as the waves upon the beach, distant voices, the hum of the refrigerator, the wind, a clocking ticking, the hiss of a kettle, falling leaves, the rustling of clothes when you move, a squeaky door, mist, rain... and sounds that come and go without much fanfare or awareness, sounds that a baby might not be able to define or point to it because they are subtle, distant, or fleeting when a baby hears such a sound he stops and tries to registers it alone, or at times if a person nearby is aware they can define it.

Day by day the sound becomes words, eventually, the baby starts to pronounce those sounds their story takes shape. A child communicates from the day they are born and eventually, they understand that sounds have meaning. Fortunate is a child who has people around to help define those sounds and who affirms their awareness of their world.

For several years now whenever I hear a church bell ring I stop what I am doing and say, "I am in the right place at the right time." As a way to be present to the moment and thankful to whatever it is I am doing. When Gabriel was with us he heard the church bells we would say, "Bells ding dong ding dong."

The evening that they were returning to Paris, Gabriel urgently took hold of my hand leading me to the door to go into our garden. I opened the door and heard the church bells as I was saying to myself, "I am in the right place at the right time." Gabriel pointed upward saying, "Dong." Ah, the continuation of his voice, the beginning of his thoughts shared, memories, collected, the ability to express with his sounds our universal vocabulary/voice. But at that moment I felt a spiritual connection ... a reminder to listen, to learn, to fine-tune that which I often take for granted- to listen to what someone is saying, not just by sound or our shared vocabulary but the essences of what they are communicating, the feeling the depth or their thoughts or their heart. Thank you Gabriel for the renewed gift of listening.

 

Bread, Wine,Cheese... and Confit Tomatoes

Cherry tomates clinging to the vine

Gently swirl them with a generous splash of olive oil,

toss oregano and salt confetti

bake for 30 minutes or so on medium heat until theit coats wrinkle.

 

What I Saw Today on my Walk

 

A moisten path

leaves glistening with raindrops,

nature breathing after a long spell without rain.

Snails. 

 

 

 

 

This cabanon (cabin) that really wants me to come inside.

I know it does.

My name is on the door.

I have never seen anyone around it except trees and vines inching their way cover it up.

 

 

 

Beauty's Rose without a Beast.

 

 

 

 

 

Saint Baume in the distance.

 

Carrying On is What We Do with Courage and Grace

Be safe

be kind

Scream if need be, get it out, but do so without hurting anyone.

These are unusual times challenging us to see things we might not have seen, to listen to ideas that are new or uncomfortable, to hold on to what we believe yet be open to the possibility that it is okay to change, to question, to keep caring even if it is too much and we feel there isn’t anything we can do to make a difference. 

California

The photos of the orange sky, smoke dense enough that you could look at the sun directly as we do the moon, photos that I doubled-checked by asking if they were taking last night or this morning?! A silence fills the air, birds are not singing, wild animals are coming into the neighborhoods in search of food, water, shade, refuge... Ash blowing as if snowing... the photos today came in from family and friends living in California... eerie, frightening, terribly awful, unforgiving, devastating, sad... 

My family is okay, but they have been living under an unbelievable blanket of smoke. The last several years California has seen tremendous fires sweep through raising havoc but this year it is unprecedented the air quality at its worse threatening their health, the devastation, loss of lives, homes, the intense bravery and sheer grit of the people fighting to control the beast.

California!

Below is a post I wrote in 2014

 

-----------------

 

 

 

Northern California during late autumn,

golden valley, harvested fields, the labor of love, geese in flight.

Country roads leading near and far.

 

 

 

Clouds adding texture between the valley and the foothills.

A single tree stands on stage circled by the Sierras and the Mendocino mountains

 

 

 

A barn in the middle of a harvested rice field.

I grew up in this valley,

under these clouds,

surrounded by rice fields and orchards,

in wide-open spaces,

with long grey paved roads,

With Shasta, Lassen, the mountain range as a protective embrace,

and barns in the middle of seemingly nowhere, but at the center of my life.

 

 

The foothills north of San Francisco are rolling gold,

The fence posts holding the visible beauty breathing space as freedom,

this is the first sign that my childhood home is nearing.

My heart expands,

I feel the rolling gold, rolling gold, rolling gold...

 

 

 

 

 

Pouring into the Sacramento valley.

 

 

 

Oh, distant geese that fly overhead where are you going?

Rolling gold along the long grey paved road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At the end of the valley, Mount Shasta rises.

What do I see, the valley, the mountain, the peaks, or the valley?

In honesty, it depends on the day.

The varied landscape of emotion and view.

 

 

 

 

A journey far and wide.

With its twist turns is never a straight shot.

Blurred are the borders, vast is the horizon,

Home.

 

----

 

Oh, California ...

 

 

Baby in Paris

 

After six months in the south due to Covid 19 Chelsea and Martin returned to their apartment in Paris. Martin was working from home but now is back at work, and Chelsea will go back to work later this month. 

Gabriel is in Paris and loves loves loves to be outside. There is a park near their home so they go there as often as they can. Gabriel is in awe of the "bigger" children.

Gabriel also enjoys strolling along the streets waving to everyone they pass by. I think he is an extrovert he doesn't hesitate to be around people or try to engage them. 

Chelsea sent me a video of Gabriel waving as they strolled back home, and I captured some photos from it for my blog.

While watching the video I could hear Petula Clark singing “Downtown” if only...

“When you're alone, and life is making you lonely
You can always go 
Downtown
When you've got worries, all the noise and the hurry
Seems to help, I know
Downtown
Just listen to the music of the traffic in the city
Linger on the sidewalk where the neon signs are pretty
How can you lose?

The lights are much brighter there
You can forget all your troubles, forget all your cares
So go downtown, things'll be great when you're
Downtown, no finer place for sure
Downtown everything's waiting for you

Downtown

Don't hang around and let your problems surround you
There are movie shows 
Downtown
Maybe you know some little places to go to
Where they never close
Downtown
Just listen to the rhythm of a gentle bossa nova
You'll be dancing with him too before the night is over…”

 

Tell me Some Acts if Kindness?