The Franco-fille

French cooking: Quiche Lorraine

2009-06-22T15:12:00.005-05:00

The quiche was a success! A couple issues: I didn’t have any salt (I recently moved and salt is one of those items I didn’t remember to buy) so I think a pinch of salt would help with the flavor. I left out the onion because the yellow onions at the store didn’t look right. Some recipes called for onion and others didn’t so I figured I was safe.

Crumbled bacon. I used 8 slices of turkey bacon.

Place bacon in bottom of prepared pie shell (I used frozen).

Mixing the 3 eggs, 1.5 c of half and half and shredded swiss cheese (gruyere and swiss mix)

Everything in the pan ready to go!

Oops! The filling spilled out as soon as I moved it. May be I will only use 1c of half and half next time. . .

All done! I was SO scared to eat it. . .

I had about 2 slices (bad girl, I know).

And the rest is going in the freezer! I am NOT gonna sit around and eat this by myself. It’s too rich. But I will say it was VERY filling. You really only need one small slice of this with a nice salad.

Not bad! I’m on my way! I’m thinking I want to try tartiflette or cassoulet next. Or perhaps mousse au chocolat! I’d love to hear any suggestions. I need fairly simple dishes since I’m a novice cook.

French Cooking

2009-06-21T12:00:00.003-05:00

I'm starting a new series where I attempt to make French dishes. I've been foricng myself to cook more instead rely on frozen dinners. I feel so much better. For the past several months (really) I've been wanting quiche lorraine, but I couldn't bring myself to buy the frozen quiche sold in grocery stores. So, last night, I googled for recipes for this delicious dish. I found a simple Betty Crocker version, and a Williams Sonoma version that is quite similar. I'm going with the W-S version:

The northeastern French province of Lorraine gave us this traditional savory tart of eggs, bacon and cheese that seemed to be on every weekend brunch table and ladies' luncheon menu by the mid-1960s. The classic filling ingredients are included here. Some versions add chopped onion or leek that has been sautéed in butter, a nod to the cooking traditions of neighboring Alsace.
Ingredients:

For the pastry:

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. salt

8 Tbs. (1 stick) chilled unsalted butter, cut into
small cubes

1 to 2 Tbs. ice water

For the filling:

6 lean bacon slices

3/4 cup heavy cream, at room temperature

3/4 cup milk, at room temperature

3 eggs, at room temperature

1 Tbs. unsalted butter, melted

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cayenne pepper, to taste

Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
Directions:

To make the pastry, in a bowl, stir together the flour and salt. Add the butter and, using a pastry blender or your fingertips, work the ingredients together quickly until crumbly and the mixture resembles oatmeal. Then, while quickly stirring and tossing with a fork, add the ice water a little at a time just until the dough begins to hold together. Gather into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Position a rack in the lower third of an oven and preheat to 425ºF.

On a lightly floured work surface, using your hands, flatten the ball of dough into a disk. Dust it with flour and roll out into an 11-inch round. Fit carefully into a 9 or 10-inch tart pan, or a 9-inch glass pie dish. If using a tart pan, trim the dough even with the pan rim. If using a pie dish, trim the dough to allow a 1-inch overhang, then fold under the overhang and flute the edges. Prick the dough in several places with fork tines and refrigerate for 10 minutes.

Partially bake the pastry shell until it just begins to color, 10 to 12 minutes. If the pastry puffs up during baking, prick again with a fork to release the steam. Remove from the oven and set aside. Reduce the oven temperature to 375ºF.

To make the filling, in a fry pan over medium-high heat, fry the bacon until crisp and golden, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain. When cool enough to handle, crumble into small bits. Scatter the crumbled bacon over the bottom of the pastry shell.

In a bowl, combine the cream, milk, eggs and melted butter. Using a whisk or fork, beat until well blended. Stir in the cheese and season with salt, black pepper and cayenne pepper. Pour into the prepared pastry shell and sprinkle the top lightly with nutmeg.

Bake until the custard is set and the tip of a knife inserted into the center of the custard comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let stand for several minutes before serving. Serves 6 to 8.

I will be using a ready made pie-crust and I may have to sub the heavy cream with half and half. We shall see. I'll be back!

Men Run the World. . .

2009-06-06T13:07:00.004-05:00

But Women run men.

First Ladies Michelle Obama and Carla Bruni-Sarkozy meet again in Paris. I've been a longtime fan of Carla's music. I love Michelle Obama. They are so cool together!

Pleasant Surprise

2009-06-06T11:27:00.003-05:00

A little sparkling wine and sweet strawberries were a wonderful treat yesterday after a busy busy couple of days. I'm always sampling new wines and came across a recommendation online for Ballatore Gran Spumante. At only $6.99, it was too cheap to not try. I was very pleasantly surprised! It's sweet, smooth, and fruity. For the price, it can't be beat. The packaging makes it look more expensive than it is. My ONLY critique is the wine is a touch too sweet.

I will always keep a few bottles of this on hand, as this will be my staple for small gatherings (unless the occasion calls for something a bit more high-end). Check out the reviews on

Missing Air France Flight

2009-06-01T09:33:00.003-05:00

From the Associated Press:

SAO PAULO – A missing Air France jet carrying 228 people from Rio de Janeiro to Paris ran into lightning and strong thunderstorms over the Atlantic Ocean, officials said Monday. Brazil began a search mission off its northeastern coast.

Chief Air France spokesman Francois Brousse said "it is possible" that the plane was hit by lightning.

Air France Flight 447, an Airbus A330, left Rio on Sunday at 7 p.m. local time (2200 GMT, 6 p.m. EDT) with 216 passengers and 12 crew members on board, company spokeswoman Brigitte Barrand.

About four hours later, the plane sent an automatic signal indicating electrical problems while going through strong turbulence, Air France said.

The plane "crossed through a thunderous zone with strong turbulence" at 0200 GMT Monday (10 p.m. EDT Sunday). An automatic message was received fourteen minutes later "signaling electrical circuit malfunction."

Brazil's Air Force said the last contact it had with the Air France jet was at 0136 GMT (9:30 p.m. EDT Sunday), but did not say where the plane was at that time.

Brazil's air force was searching near the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, about 300 kilometers (180 miles) northeast of the coastal city of Natal, a spokesman said, speaking on condition of anonymity in keeping with department policy.

The region is about 1,500 miles northeast of Rio.

The head of investigation and accident prevention for Brazil's Civil Aeronautics Agency, Douglas Ferreira Machado, told Brazil's Globo TV that he believes the plane must have left Brazilian waters and could have been near the coast of Africa by the time contact was lost, based on the speed it was traveling.

"It's going to take a long time to carry out this search," he said. "It could be a long, sad story. The black box will be at the bottom of the sea."

Air France-KLM CEO Pierre-Henri Gourgeon, at a news conference at Charles de Gaulle Airport north of Paris, said the pilot had 11,000 hours of flying experience, including 1,700 hours flying this aircraft. No name was released.

Aviation experts said the risk the plane was brought down by lightning was slim.

"Lightning issues have been considered since the beginning of aviation. They were far more prevalent when aircraft operated at low altitudes. They are less common now since it's easier to avoid thunderstorms," said Bill Voss, president and CEO of Flight Safety Foundation, Alexandria, Va.

He said planes have specific measures built in to help dissipate electricity along the aircraft's skin.

"I cannot recall in recent history any examples of aircraft being brought down by lightning," he told The Associated Press.

Experts said it was clear the plane was not in the air any longer, due to the amount of fuel it would have been carrying.

"The conclusion to be drawn is that something catastrophic happened on board that has caused this airplane to ditch in a controlled or an uncontrolled fashion," Jane's Aviation analyst Chris Yates told The Associated Press.

"I would suggest that potentially it went down very quickly and so quickly that the pilot on board didn't have a chance to make that emergency call," Yates said, adding that the possibilities ranged from mechanical failure to terrorism.

Families who arrived to meet passengers on board were cordoned off, away from reporters, at a special Air France information center at the Charles de Gaulle airport. That center said 60 French citizens were on the plane. Italy said at least three passengers were Italian.

"Air France shares the emotion and worry of the families concerned," Barrand said.

The flight was supposed to arrive in Paris at 0915 GMT (5:15 a.m. EDT), according to the airport.

Airbus said it was cooperating with transport authorities and Air France, but would not further comment until more details emerged.

"Our thoughts are with the passengers and with the families of the passengers," said Airbus spokeswoman Maggie Bergsma.

The Airbus A330-200 is a twin-engine, long-haul, medium-capacity passenger jet that is 58.8 meters (190 feet) long. It is a shortened version of the standard A330, and can hold up to 253 passengers. It first went into service in 1998 and there are 341 in use worldwide today. It can fly up to 7,760 miles (12,500 kilometers).

French President Nicolas Sarkozy expressed his "extreme worry" and planned to visit the Charles de Gaulle airport later Monday.

*******

Let us pray that this turns out positively for the 228 souls on board, and for the families and loved ones waiting for them back home.

The Big "H"

2009-05-22T12:32:00.004-05:00

I'm a recent connoisseur of the venerable Hermes brand. If you love Hermes silks and leathers and one day plan to own the grand-mere of purses (Mlle Birkin or Mlle Kelly), I highly recommend that you visit my two new guilty internet pleasures:

The Purse Blog Hermes Forum and fellow blogger Mai Tai. The ladies on the forum have THE scoop about all things Hermes. And they are generous with there photos. Through the forum, I came across the lovely MaiTai's blog. She is the embodiment of what women envision when they hear the term "french chic." If there was anyone who ever actually lives it, it's Mai Tai.

Chic Style

2009-03-12T14:36:00.002-05:00

I'm a HUGE fan of Victoria Beckham. I think her style is over the top and fabulous. I love that she absolutely takes her style so seriously. Sure, she has some misses but they are few and far between. Fur was on my radar this winter as I spent a lot of time on the East Coast. If you didn't know, East Coast ladies don't play when it comes to their fur! It's practical and stylish. I found faux mink jacket for formal events for under $50, but I'm probably going to purchase a full length fur by next winter. I'm totally coveting this Antonio Berardi fur that Victoria is wearing.

Chanel et Tatou

2009-03-11T19:31:00.004-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obXrWJaV8Hg

I am SO freaking excited for this movie.

Bad Blogger. . .Good News!

2009-02-26T16:24:00.005-05:00

Dang, it's been a while since I've updated this thing! Apologies to the (maybe) 2 readers of this blog :)

While I've been a bad blogger, there is some good news: I'm going to Paris in the spring! Per usual, I'm traveling alone, so if anyone will be in the city or is an expat in the city, I'd love some company! As much as I love to travel, I admit that traveling alone kinda. . .sucks at time. I mean, who's gonna snap my fabulous pics? (I kid, I kid.) This time, I'm coming to the city of lights with a plan: I belong to so many international networking sites and have amazingly kept in touch with people I met in Europe almost two years ago. So in the words of Rhett Butler, "I shan't be lonely."

There are some AMAZING spring fares to Europe now, so I encourage anyone who wants to go but is alone or is afraid of making to 8 hour trip to charge it and think about it later! You WILL get on that flight!

Anyway, bisoux. I'm going to download my french cd's onto my mp3 player and kick my basic franglais into high gear. Vive la France!

Getting Organized

2008-07-01T22:21:00.002-05:00

My life is not totally out of control, but I feel like I need to manage my time better. I've decided to invest in a grown up planner, the planner pad. I had a wonderful planner at my all girls high school and remembered desperately wanting the same planner when I was in college.

I am truly a mess with missing appointments, paying bills late, etc. It's just not acceptable at my age. I also waste a lot of time on the net. I always forget to buy something at the store even though it was written down on a sticky note that got lost. . .

Especially since I'm a member of the JL this year, I have a lot of social and volunteer commitments coming up. I need to make sure my word is my word when I agree to sign up for things. I HATE canceling on someone at the last minute.

The planner pad has a unique three-tiered system for getting organized. First, you list all the things you need to take care of for that week. Then you funnel those tasks into days of the week. Finally, you schedule individual appointments day by day. You can check off as you go and look ahead to things you need to accomplish as the week goes on.

I think I'm a touch to ADD to keep having nebulous thoughts in my head for what I want to accomplish for the week. It would be good to see it in black and white (and color). Oh, and I don't think an electronic system would work for me. The process of writing down my thoughts would be better.

More French Chic: Olivia Chantecaille

2008-06-30T09:04:00.003-05:00

I love her style and always look forward to seeing what she's wearing.
Credit: Park venue Peerage

Perfect Summer Picnic

2008-05-31T22:18:00.003-05:00

I'm currently on the lookout for a nice basket and blanket. Any suggestions?

Mon Foulard (inspired by Une Femme)

2008-05-25T00:06:00.003-05:00

I love scarves. Absolutely cuckoo for them. I think a lot of people my age think a silk scarf may be a little mature and pretentious. But I don't care. They add a touch of class and charm to my outfits. I would much rather wear a simple black turtleneck or white dress shirt or trench and jeans and dress it up with a scarf than wear the latest trendy monstrosity. Yesterday, I wore favorite scarf that I purchased in Switzerland for 20 francs. (I'm still yearning for the grand dame of scarves, Hermes. Un jour. . .)

I'm somewhat particular about what I like in terms of colors and prints: navy, beige, hunter and kelly green, equestrian themes, etc.

I also have a love affair with pashminas, but they are not all that weather appropriate now. So, I think I will just throw on my silk scarves when I feel bare.

L'Hymne a L'amour

2008-05-21T21:12:00.005-05:00

Le ciel bleu sur nous peut s'effondrer,
Et la terre peut bien s'écrouler,
Peu m'importe si tu m'aimes,
Je me fous du monde entier.

Tant qu' l'amour innondera mes matins,
Tant qu'mon corps frémira sous tes mains,
Peu m'importent les problèmes,
Mon amour, puisque tu m'aimes.

J'irais jusqu'au bout du monde,
Je me ferais teindre en blonde,
Si tu me le demandais.
J'irais décrocher la lune,
J'irais voler la fortune,
Si tu me le demandais.
Je renierais ma patrie,
Je renierais mes amis,
Si tu me le demandais.
On peut bien rire de moi,
Je ferais n'importe quoi,
Si tu me le demandais.

Si un jour, la vie t'arrache à moi,
Si tu meurs, que tu sois loin de moi,
Peu m'importe si tu m'aimes,
Car moi je mourrais aussi.

Nous aurons pour nous l'éternité,
Dans le bleu de toute l'immensité,
Dans le ciel, plus de problème,
Mon amour, crois-tu qu'on s'aime?

Dieu réunit ceux qui s'aiment.

Perfect Skin

2008-05-21T20:49:00.003-05:00

If you didn't know, the MAC mineralize skinfinish liquid foundation is a hit! I use this along with the Mineralize powder and I love how my skin looks. I haven't been photographed in this makeup yet, but my sister sent me photos of herself with it on (she's a makeup artist) and it looked like she had perfect skin.

My skin is NOT perfect, but I've started using a mild strength TCA peel and my skin is getting so much better! This acid actually causes your epidermis to fall off and the stronger the acid is (or the more layers you use) the more peeling you get. The first time I did it, my skin peeled for a solid week. This time, I used one layer an I'm getting a nice gentle flaking. I should say I started out with Lactic Acid peels before using TCA. I STRONGLY recommend that you do your homework before using it. I've known about TCA peels since 2004 but it's taken me all this time to do my research and think carefully if I wanted to use it. It's possibly the best skin decision I made!

My skin use to be really finicky but it's really calmed down the past year. I know skincare in France is life, and the next time I go back for a visit, I will be making time to get some French goodies to use on my skin.

Hyeres Photos

2008-05-18T09:19:00.004-05:00

Photos from the Hyeres fashion festival in France. I am in LOVE with this girl's glasses. I think they are Ray Bans? I wear thick black glasses too but I need this pair in my life!

Photo credit: Cafe Mode

Simply Vera

2008-05-16T21:07:00.005-05:00

So I got this Simply Vera Wang skirt on sale at Kohl's and had the opportunity to wear it to a Junior League social. I really haven't purchased anything from her line, but I likes the ease of this skirt (silk material with an elastic back waist). It looks a lot better than in the photo (the bottom doesn't flare out like that).

It was a chilly evening so I wore it with a black turtleneck (a staple for me during the winter) and black rainboots. I felt chic and appropriate for the event. I'm a new member and lemme tell you, these ladies go all out! Everyone was really nice and I couldn't help checking out what the other ladies were wearing. I'm definitely going to have to step my game up.

I never did the sorority thing, and I look forward to having a more active social and volunteer life. I don't know what the organizations are like other areas of the country/world (I imagine it's a bit more stuffy in the Northeast and South--where you may need a sponsor to join!) but it's really laid back with lots of young women.

I'm really liking these two dresses as well:

Here's another dress I bought for another day as seen on The Bag Snob.

Dating Advice from Supermodel Adriana Lima

2008-05-11T12:48:00.002-05:00

SO, YOU WANNA DATE A SUPERMODEL?

Adriana Lima tells GQ exactly what it takes.

There’s the assumption—which we can neither endorse nor reject—that extraordinarily good-looking women aren’t like the women you know. The theory is that women who inhabit the uppermost echelon of conventional beauty are so otherworldly, so demanding, so desired, that no ordinary semi-self-respecting man (i.e., you) could ever make them happy. Your best line? She’s heard it. Your lavish gifts? She’s got a drawerful, thank you. Your supersecret, private vacation island? She used to date the guy who owns it. These pampered, fawned-over creatures maintain expectations so outlandishly high that anyone who attempts to scale the heights required to meet them is destined for crushing failure and frustration.
Or that’s the theory, anyway. But is it true? Hell if we know. So we asked the extraordinarily good-looking Adriana Lima to set the record straight. Here’s her take.
Don’t let me scare you.
Usually, guys are nervous. I think they are afraid of me. I don’t think I look scary. Be however you are. Don’t try to be what you’re not. If you’re nervous, be nervous. If you’re shy, be shy. It’s cute.
Put the Treo down and pay attention to me.
If you’re having dinner with friends and they’re always on the phone or always texting, it’s just impolite. Unless it’s something important—like someone is in the hospital or something—don’t do it. It’s not attractive. It’s a girlie thing.* It makes you seem like a teenage girl. Especially if you’re talking about parties and which clubs you’re going to and who’s going to be there…it’s just silly.
[*Ouch.]
Get jealous…
I like jealous men. I love jealousy. I do. Everything has a limit, of course, but once in a while you have to stand up and say, “I love this person.”
...but not violent.
It’s never okay to defend my honor by beating someone up. You have to control yourself, even if the other person is drunk and crazy. Just say, “Let’s go home. Let’s leave.” You don’t have to say a thing to him. I never have to see that person for the rest of my life. I don’t like fights. I don’t like aggressive people.
Don’t hit on my girlfriends!*
(No matter how hot they are.)
Don’t treat them like a piece of meat. Don’t flirt with them! We’re not competitive. It has happened before, and it never works.
[*While we imagine a man with the courage/gall/nuts to hit on one ludicrously beautiful lingerie model while on a date with another ludicrously beautiful lingerie model may actually exist, we’ve never met him and wouldn’t know what to say to him if we did.]

A beautiful girl is a beautiful girl, not an accessory.
Don’t change your personality when you get around people at a party, or don’t walk in and think you’re the hottest person because you have the hottest girl.* If you start carrying me around like a trophy, it’s not good.
[*Your modesty, Adriana: It slays us.]
Just remember, you’re really dating the waiter.
A man needs to be polite, not just to me but to everyone. I watch that. How does he treat the waiter? How does he treat the coat-check girl? How does he treat the driver?* Don’t give orders to these people. You don’t own everything around you. Treat people with respect.
[*We have a driver? Awesome!]
Your first move should be no move at all.
Sometimes people are too aggressive. I need time to realize exactly who you are before I go out with you. Don’t be pushy. Don’t pressure me. “When can I see you? When can I meet you? When can we go out?” No. Take your time. When I’m ready, I’ll make the move.
Make friends with your inner viscount.
Show me you can take care of me. Say you’re taking me to dinner: I expect you to pick me up and open the car door for me. Hold the restaurant door while I enter and pull out the chair for me when I sit down. Stand up when I go to the restroom and again when I return. I love old-fashioned manners, as long as it’s not forced. I can tell when it’s natural or when someone is just trying to impress me.*
[*Wethinks it most unbecoming a man of good breeding to imperil a lady’s high virtue with beguilement and common trickery.]
Take me away.
(But not too far.)
When we’re traveling together for the first time, we sleep in different rooms. That’s the number one thing. And you should plan the whole trip. Buy the ticket, get the car to the airport, organize everything so I don’t have to think about it. And yes, carry my bags. I don’t travel light, either—at least two bags. Always. But if you say, “Oh, I’m going to fly you to Paris for the weekend,” or something like that, make sure we know each other well first. I’m not going to fly a million miles with somebody I don’t know.

A gift is only as good as the time, energy, and effort you put into it.
Sometimes people think they need to show you how successful they are and how much money they have, so they get you something too big. Don’t do this. The simple thing is always the best. Write me a letter, because it shows that you made an effort and that you gave of yourself. I love that. I also love flowers. It could be even one flower. You don’t have to buy something big to show that you love me.
But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t aim high.
You know how you can have a star named after a person, as a gift? A few years ago, a friend of mine received this present* from her husband, and I thought it was so romantic. I thought, Ohhhhhh. That’s really amazing. That’s unbelievable. This guy must really love her!
[*Given Adriana’s estimated 2007 income—roughly $6 million from modeling fees, endorsement deals, Super Bowl advertisements, etc.—and the rock stars and royals she tends to run with, we thought it would be helpful to find out how much it costs to have a star named for that someone special. Five grand? Ten? Fifty? Actually, on Starnamer.org, it’s more like $19.95. Or roughly the price of one mango martini at a hotel bar in Midtown Manhattan. No wonder kids stopped dreaming of becoming astronauts.]
There is no such thing as casual dating.
I don’t understand dating when you go with someone but you can see other people at the same time. Huh? I don’t do that. I’m always serious. I’ve only had four or five relationships, and I’ve never stayed with anyone for less than one year. I don’t date too much because I find it very difficult to find men who are willing to compromise, and when you’re in a relationship you have to compromise. You have to make sacrifices. You can’t just continue doing everything you did before.
Call your mom. For real.
It’s important that a man has a good relationship with his family. Your family is your base—they make you who you are—and if you don’t respect them, I don’t think you can respect anyone else. If you have problems with them, you need to resolve those problems. And while I’m at it, treat my mother like your mother: with respect, with care. I love it when you ask about my family. You should always ask about how my family is doing, because in the future they may be your family, too.*
[*Uh, we haven’t even slept over yet.]

Go home. Now.
You have to have limits—limits on everything: on drinking, on going out, on jealousy. Everything has to have a limit. Nothing too much is good.
Rethink those nurse fantasies.
When I’m sick, I want a lot of caresses.*
Make sure I eat. If you don’t know how to cook, call and get food delivered. Go to the pharmacy and get the medication I need. Just take care of me until I get better. That’s it. Simple. If you don’t know what to do, ask me. Just say, “What do you need?” I will tell you. Whatever I tell you, do. That’s it.
[*Done.] From GQ Mag

I have to say, I agree with just about everything she said. I'm an old fashioned girl myself. I watch Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility and think, those broads had it good! (if you ignore the minor issue of men not being able to leave their daughters money and property. . .) Ohmigosh, I watch Darcy walking with Elizabeth or Edward Ferrars inviting Miss Dashwood for a garden stroll and I think, where are the guys like that? Granted I know I don't live in 18th century England with a country estate and a house in London, but is it wrong to want a little bit of romance? I guess Adriana agrees with me. I'm not a totally cruel Rules! b*tch. I won't walk off a date if a guy doesn't hold the seat for me or order my food but somewhere inside my head is a mental checklist that I'm subconsciously checking off. My friends say I need to step into modern times. But somewhere, I know that those social graces do still matter. Maybe I'm just not in the right place. . .

Tried and True

2008-05-06T21:54:00.002-05:00

The lovely Dita von Teese at the Costume Institute Gala. She never disappoints. Dita, a frequent traveler to Paris, cites the city as her favorite. Just another reason to love her.

Feeling Blue

2008-05-02T12:07:00.002-05:00

Today, I'm feeling a bit down. I won't go into the details but it's hard being a single girl! And not only a single girl, but a fabulous refined francophone old-fashioned girl. I'm feeling an incredible desire to bake today. So I'm about to hit the grocery store, load up on supplies and start making magic in the kitchen! I hardly ever have time to cook, but my soul obviously needs a bit of nurturing and home made goodness. I shall return. . .

Tomorrow's Outfit

2008-04-30T19:00:00.003-05:00

What I'm wearing to the ballet. You like? Haven't decided on a bag or shoes yet, but I'm trying to get out of my "matchy matchy" rut. Things don't have to always match perfectly. I'm thinking a splash of red or even a neutral color like beige or gray. We'll see. There's a gala right after the show (which I'm not going to) but I suspect people will be wearing their black tie attire to the showing. Oh well. I'm not getting that dressed up.

Where is Carmen Sandiego?

2008-04-29T14:05:00.003-05:00

Unfortunately, I can't embed this but check it out.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=PYhodCCUyBs

Whereforeartthou Romeo?

2008-04-24T19:47:00.003-05:00

I completely forgot I'm going to the ballet next week to see Romeo and Juliet. I can't wait. Last year was my first foray into the ballet scene and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

I went to my first opera about a month ago on opening night. Lots and lots of fur abounded. Even though it's opening night as well, I think the ballet will be more low key than the opera was. I'll probably keep it simple with a dress.

Olivia Chantecaille

2008-04-23T23:58:00.003-05:00

I love Olivia's style. Of course, she probably gets her effortless glam look from her French roots.

Has anyone actually tried Chantecaille cosmetics? They are expensive but are they worth it?

Mrs. Cruise

2008-04-23T19:50:00.002-05:00

I really like Katie Holmes' new style. I love it. It's very reminiscent of Jackie O with the brunette bob, oversized glasses, clean lines. I know a lot of people think she dresses too old, but I think she just stands out in a sea of breast baring, crotch displaying teetotaling Hollywood brats. It's obvious her look has been inspired by Posh Beckham and it works. I need a cool BFF like Posh.

Paris je t'aime. . .encore

2008-04-23T14:47:00.002-05:00

I just watched the film Paris Je T'aime for the second time. I saw it in the theatre when it was released in the States (maybe in 2006?) and I loved it. I realized that I forgot some of the vignettes. Or, I had completely invented continuations of the stories that weren't in the film. Par example, in my version, Maggie Gyllenhaal's character reunites with her dealer. Or the Arab girl and the French teenager share a kiss. Um, none of that ever happened but somehow, my mind completed the stories.

If I had to pick one vignette that speaks to me the most, it would be the woman who ventures to Paris alone (14e arrondissement). I feel her "joy and sadness" when the beauty of Paris hits her and she realizes she's there and she's alive. She may not have her dream man, but in that moment, none of that matters. I have surely been in Paris and had several eye-watering moments like that. I've been there. I've composed poetry on the inside cover of my Rick Steve's Paris guide because I couldn't contain my emotion. I sat at an outside table at Deux Magots and donned my dark glasses so people couldn't see the excitement on my face. It sounds so melodramatic and silly, but where Paris is concerned, I simply lose it. Paris is like the perfect lover that I never had. I know that anytime I go there, that familiar feeling of comfort and bliss will take hold.

I've noticed so many new francophile blogs in the blogosphere and it's so amazing to me: I'm not the only weirdo out there who feels so passionately about Paris. It definitely gives me a feeling of solidarity.

J'adore Tatou

2008-04-21T14:11:00.002-05:00

I absolutely adore Audrey Tatou. I think she's so special. I loved her in Amelie (how could you not?). Soon, she will delight audiences as Madame Coco (as in Chanel). They couldn't have picked a better actress who will represent Madame's quirky spirit and ingenuity. The above pic is shows Audrey at fashion week in Paris. That SO will be me one day traipsing through the pebbled walk en route to the shows. I love it.

LBD by Laura Bennett

2008-04-20T12:45:00.002-05:00

What say you? Is this dress (eh hem polyester) worth $109? I love the style. I love that it has sleeves. I wish she took the v-neck as deeply as she normally wears. I love that it comes with the Boucheron-esque buckle that Laura wears. But it's polyester. Am I just a snob?

Fabulous Blog Discovery

2008-04-20T12:30:00.001-05:00

I just discovered this fabulous blog after the author posted a comment on mine: http://labeletterouge.blogspot.com

I fully intend to sit down and read each and every post when I have some downtime.

Got some things cooking!

2008-03-24T17:19:00.005-05:00

I may be in Paris for about a month coming up...the details are still being worked out but stay tuned!

The other BIG news. My mother watched Michael Moore's Sicko a few months ago and decided she wants to move to France! Well, even though it's been a while since she brought it up, lately, I've been gently prodding her and reminding her about that good ole socialized health care system in France. I think she's worried about the logistics of moving. She doesn't fly, but today I informed her that the Queen Mary is still a valid travel option and we can travel by oceanliner across the Atlantic Ocean (a la Grace Kelly when she moved to Monaco to marry Prince Ranier or the Bouvier sisters who spent "One Special Summer" in Europe). Doesn't that sound so chic and 1950s?

I'm trying to get her to see that 1. I fully intend to relocate and 2. she wouldn't be alone in big bad France. The two of us could make it. Today I reminded her that she could rent out her house here and we could get a cute little apartment there. So she could be making some money while she's in France living a nice life. She could essentially retire. I can't believe she may ACTUALLY be thinking about doing this!

Reading

2008-03-20T18:41:00.003-05:00

I'm hoping to catch up on some reading in the coming weeks. Some books I've recently checked out from the library and others that I'm reserving:

Almost French
My French Life
Blame it on Paris

I'd love to hear any other recommendations that anyone has regarding ex-pating to France or living in France. Thanks!

Deux Jours a Paris

2008-02-12T21:38:00.000-05:00

So I bought 2 Days in Paris. I couldn't resist. Might as well live vicariously through movie characters and my favorite blogs.

Seasons Greetings!

2007-12-30T18:21:00.000-05:00

Even though the season is almost over, I fondly wish you happy holidays and a bountiful New Year!

So. . .I've sort of calmed down about moving to Paris. It's still something that I want to do, but the right opportunity just hasn't presented itself. So, I'm not going to stress about it. I know that I will be in Paris when the time is right. Whether that's 2009 or later, I don't know. But I will be there.

Right now, I'm focussed on finishing school and moving on to the next phase of my life ie being employed! Yeah baby! I realized that working=disposable income which means more travel! My list of destinations I want to visit is rapidly increasing, so I need to get on with working.

Today I was in Barnes and Noble and came across Sparknotes cards with French vocab on them. They also had a set with grammar. I was highly tempted to purchase the 1000 card vocab set because I've tried to make flashcards with new mots on them, but it's hella time consuming. The cards only cost $9.95. I'm trying not to impulse buy as much so I decided to come home and think about it.

I'm thinking about doing a one week language immersion course in maybe Montreal which would be easier to get to than Paris. I'm looking into Alliance Francais to see what courses they might have there.

So, what are your aspirations and plans for the new year? Mine? To travel a bit this year, reclaim some sort of social life, and get my "real" life going.

French Ambition

2007-10-25T20:12:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm trying to keep myself connected to the dream of living in Paris un jour. For me that entails French movies, music (Piaf, Aznavour), wine (cotes de Bergerac) and books. I've been reading Almost French since September. No, I'm not a slow reader. But with school, I can only read a chapter here and there. Hopefully, if the weather is still nice and crisp, I'll go to a park and read for a couple hours. I've already renewed the book 3 times so it must be read by early November!

Almost French is the story of an Aussie woman who meets a Frenchman in Prague and is intrigued by his, well, Frenchiness. She agrees to visit him in Paris and ends up moving there. I actually started reading this book in Paris outside of:

Shakespeare and Company. I desperately wanted to buy the book right then and there, but I was already on dangerous ground with my luggage situation. I couldn't afford to add an extra ounce to my already laden down self. So I just jotted down the name and author instead. The book is funny and interesting and I look forward to finishing it soon! LOL.

The French Job Market?

2007-10-25T20:07:00.000-05:00

I applied for an paid* internship in Paris.

I got an e-mail back and subsequently had a phone interview.

Was asked in I would be in Paris any time soon for a face to face interview.

Was told to re-contact interviewer in a month to arrange webcam interview.

Faithfully contacted interviewer by e-mail in a month to arrange webcam interview.

Still no word from said interviewer. Is this a normal job search in France? If they're not interested anymore, hopefully they'll contact me and say we've filled the p osition.

Trying to keep hope alive.

*even though the internship is "paid" I have no idea mow much or if it would even be enough to live on. I could probably teach on the side or babysit, but (if you've read this blog) you know that I am OCD when it comes to having stuff planned out perfectly.

How can I get to Paris?

2007-09-25T22:23:00.001-05:00

Any ideas? I'm really trying to figure how I'm going to work this out. I mean, I officially need a *reason* to move. I mean, I can't just move to Paris for no reason. . .right?

I Miss Paris

2007-09-12T18:22:00.000-05:00

That is all.

Back in the US

2007-09-07T18:13:00.000-05:00

I thoroughly enjoyed my time abroad. It wasn't as much of a culture shock as I thought coming home. I wasn't as depressed as I was the last time I went abroad and came back. Maybe it's because I stayed much longer this time. Maybe it's because I'm plotting my return. Stay tuned...

Deux Jours a Paris

2007-08-16T16:51:00.000-05:00

I just came back from watching this new film with Julie Delpy. I liked it a lot! But, then again, I'm really getting into French films a lot. It was basically a romantic comedy about a girl who has committment issues and a guy who has all kinds of issues. They have been dating for 2 years, and just come back from a romantic holiday in Venice. They live in NY, but stop in Paris for 2 days before heading back to the States. In Paris, he starts to see her crazy side and feels like he doesn't really know her. She, sensing that she might be haing real feelings for him is waiting for the bottom to drop out like it always does.

The theater was laughing throughout the whole movie! But I sense it had something to do with the french subtitles that I didn't quite pick up. Anyway, it's one of those movies I need to watch again, as I usually pick up new things everytime I watch a movie.

I walked back to my apartment from the theater, and I just really felt appreciative of my time here. As my time here draws to a close, I feel so much more mature. So grown-up. I envy people who are living in France for real, and only hope that my time gets here fast enough and that I can make it happen. I've met some great people here who actually live in Paris, so hopefully I can keep in touch (sometimes, it's hard!). I do miss the US though. I'm not gonna front. But I'd be doing myself a disservice if I didn't pursue this one aspect of my life. Sometimes, when listening to french I feel so intimidated and like I have so far to go in terms of really learning the language. But I know in time, it will come.

Homesick?

2007-08-06T03:37:00.000-05:00

I started having the feeling that I'm ready to go home. Not because I hate it here. Not because I can't hack it. It's the opposite, I think. I think I want ot go home so I can get on with tying up my loose ends (so to speak) in the US so I can move to Paris. OK, maybe there's a bit of homesickness in there somewhere too. I do miss being able to call people at will. The cost and the 6-hour time difference makes that a bit hard to do. I haven't seen my family since December, but them again, I hadn't seen them a year before the last time I saw them. So that can't be completely it.

I think a part of it is loneliness. When you're in a place for only a short time, it's hard to get to know people well. Sure you make fast friends when you're in a challenging situation, but do you really have time to get to know people? I wish I had more time to develop the relationships that I'm forming. I think I've become more social since I've been here. ;)

I think I also want to go home because I feel this new sense of purpose. Like, I'm going to get my life together (sorta like when Sabrina comes home from a year in Paris, she's a new person). I just feel like I've grown up so much here. I'm so proud of myself for doing this.

Still, another reason for wanting to go home is, I'm in Geneva. Geneva is a nice city, but after a few weeks, you feel very comfortable there. I guess that means, there isn't that much to do after a point. It's a lovely city for families and for people who are not interested in the big city life. But I'm a city girl at heart with dreams to conquer the City of Lights and the Big Apple, so I need a glamorous city with glamorous people. Don't get me wrong--Geneva is very moneyed. There is a lot of wealth here. I love my daily eye candy of watching business men in suits on their way to work. They are so GQ. But, I think the divide is also wide here, so when you don't have a regular source of income, you feel trapped here, like you can't enjoy yourself. That being said, if I got a job to come back here, sure I'd take it. Geneva is only a few hours from Paris by train lol. And the Easy Jet flies out of the airport.

I'm still trying to think about how I'm going to parlay my degree into a job in Paris. But if there's one principle I operate on, it's faith. I know with a little faith, prayer, belief and luck, I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.

La Vie en Rose

2007-07-26T16:39:00.000-05:00

I thought that love was just a word
They sang about it songs i heard
It took your kisses to reveal
That i was wrong, and love is real

Edith Piaf in La Vie en Rose

Less Money, More Problems

2007-07-24T09:07:00.000-05:00

Geneva is VERY expensive. Like 2-3 times as expensive as the States. I think, when I go back, everything will seem relatively cheaper. Hopefully, it won't turn me into big spender.

So far, I've been pretty good about watching my money here. I probably spend the most money on food. I paid 70 francs for a monthly travel pass. I paid my rent for July. I still have money in the bank. The hard part comes from wanting to travel. Living in Europe is a wonderful opprtunity to travel to other places in Europe. What I didn't know is you can get DEEPLY discounted train fares if you book 2+ months in advance. of course, I didn't know that I'd want to go to all these places and I didn't know who I'd meet until I got here and who I might travel with.

So, I'm kind of bummed that I can't explore Europe like I want. BUT, I keep telling myself that I will be back. With more money (hopefully a job) and more time to take weekend trips all over Europe. I should be grateful that I'm even here for 2 months in the first place!

That being said, I am planning one major trip (more about this later) and I'm ending my stay in the south of france. Other than that, it's day trips to Lyon, Annecy, Bern, Lausanne and other close destinations. I think I can deal with that. As a matter of fact, I'm going to buy my train tix for my one "major" trip today. TODAY.

Yodel-a-he-hoo!

2007-07-22T09:55:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Switzerland!

Today makes exactly 3 weeks since I've been here and it's time I blogged about it, no? I'm here working for the summer. I got a great opportunity to come to Geneva and I've been having a great time. Even though I've only been out of the US for a little over 3 weeks (I stopped in Paris before I came to Geneva) I haven't had any huge emotional breakdowns or an major language issues.

It was a little lonely at first but I've made some nice friends at work and I live in an apartment with other students. I don't see my housemates often, but they are quite nice. I'm the only American. Everyone else is French, African or Swiss, so it gives me a good opportunity to practice my language skills.

Geneva is a nice city. It's very diverse but it's not segregated. It's very family oriented. Even though I'm single and childless, I can appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere here. There are SO many designer stores here! Hermes, Chanel, Kookai, Cartier, Rolex, Armani, Dior, etc. The streets are just lined with fashionable stores. And man, can people DRESS here! I love to just don my large sunglasses so I can just people-watch. Today, I even took some photos of storefront windows for inspiration for when I dress.

Geneva is in a lot of ways very simple. If you like shopping, eating out, walking around, window shopping, going to a park, boats, then Geneva is for you. It seems a little lacking in excitement or flashy nightlife. But that is probably why it's considered one of the safest cities in the world. It doesn't attract that kind of crowd. On Sundays, all the stores are closed, so it was kind of a nuisance to deal with at first. However, I discovered a nice farmer's market just down the street from where I live. And restaurants are open. Today, I enjoyed a nice cafe au lait at an outdoor cafe and had lunch at the very affordable but tasty Chez Ma Cousine.

Like I said in my last post, I'm 98% sure I want to be in Paris in the next 2 years, but it will take some careful planning. I'm trying not to be too overzealous because I'm sure there's still a lot I haven't seen yet, and I know I'm just scratching the surface of living abroad.

I feel like I'm growing a lot as a person, though. Coming out of my shell, putting myself out there, living life. I don't know why I had to come over 3000 miles to do that, but hey, I won't question it. Hopefully when I return to the States in a little over a month, I will still retain the same joie de vivre and not fall back into old boring habits.

Bad Blogger

2007-07-14T09:28:00.000-05:00

I have so much to update but I don't have to desire to write a lengthy update. Which futher perpetuates the need for an, er, update. Never mind.

Just a quick note to say the sun is shining and it's a beautiful day in the neighborhood. Thank God for a beautiful summer day.

I know when I get back to the US, I will be a lot more appreciative of just being outside and enjoying the general splendor of the day.

Since Paris is my fantasy city to live in, wouldn't it be great to have a fantasy job? I've always loved fashion and dreamed of being a designer. Now, I have no desire to run a fashion label or start one, but a short-term job at a magazine or at a design house would be fabulous! It doesn't even have to pay well. . .I would just need to be able to live (but NO struggling from paycheck to paycheck). My family would probably hate me, but like I said, Paris is going to happen, and it might as well be the way I've always dreamed it could be. Well, I'm going to start searching message boards, and seeing what I can find. Even if such a perfect job exists, I'm sure it will take hard work and dedication to get it. Hey, it took me a YEAR to earn my current internship! Yes, slow and steady is my motto. Like a true Cancer, I may move sideways towards a goal, but everything usually works out.

Making my Move

2007-07-09T08:04:00.000-05:00

I made the decision "officially" yesterday that I will be moving to Paris by mid 2009! I know, that seems a ifetime away, but think about it, we're already into the second half of 2007 and the year feels like it just started.

If I didn't have 2 years of school left, I would probably cancel my lease and set up permanent residence in Paris. But I can't do that. . .(right?)

Will update

2007-07-08T09:08:00.000-05:00

as soon as I can get my internet situation straightened out. Can't wait to update you!

Saturday Night Fever

2007-07-02T13:09:00.000-05:00

So, I did end up going out on my last night in Paris. I gathered up my courage, and got all dolled up. My style is sorta lady like/preppy and I don't like showing a lot of skin, so I ended up wearing a sky-blue dress I would wear to work, huge pearls (too big to wear in the day) and taupe flats. I also threw on a sky blue pashmina. I definitely didn't feel that I looked catcall worthy even though I felt I looked nice (this will become relevant later). Anyhoo, I decided to go to the Eiffel Tower to see the view:

It was nice. I was wistful because I was alone in Paris and single amid all the couples around me. It was a bit hard. Then this guy came and sat next to me, and started talking to me. He didn't speak much english, so I was forced to really try to speak the best french that I could. Well, we ended up talking and walking a bit. He wanted to walk along the Seine but I was like, um, no. I'm a woman alone in a foreign country, so there was no way I was about to walk along the dark, dimly lit Seine with him. LOL. I know that interactions between men and women are probably different in Europe (ie the men seem more forward) but that's something that I hope to get used to over time. Anyway, I really wanted to be by myself (I know, after I said that I was tired of being alone; I'm such a contradiction) so we parted ways after he walked me to the metro.

I wanted to go back to St Germain but I got LOST! I have a hard time finding my way around my own country, so I should have known better. But there were people out, so I felt safe. Somehow, I ended up walking to Invalides and then turned around to head back to the Seine (my landmark lol). I crossed bridge and ended up getting to the Champs-Elysees. But I can't tell you how LOL. I walked up and down it. Even though I told myself I would go home soon, I couldn't leave. I just kept walking up and down. By the time I was ready to go, the metro was closed (or so I thought). I got SO lost. I couldn't figure out where I was and no one could tell me how to get back to the Opera district. A couple guys pulled me to the side and tried to dance with me, but it was scary more than anything. I started to feel very transparent and silly for being out alone at night by myself. Anyway, I couldnt' seem to flag down a taxi, so I kept walking. Another guy smiled at me and said "hi" so I practically ran to him, and asked him for help. He said, just take the metro and I said, "isn't it closed?" but apparently it wasn't. I could have sworn I saw the gates closed. Anyway, I got on (where I was solicited by another man--he wanted to give me a massage) and got off at the right stop. When I tried to make my way to the transfer point, I was stopped by the metro man who said the metro was closed. My American brain couldn't quite process it fast enough, so I still tried to walk down. He was pretty annoyed. Perhaps that's why he wouldn't help me figure out a way to get home. Fortunately for me, I temembered that I had my map, and found my way to Avenue L'Opera. It was pretty much a straight shot back to the hotel. By this point, my feet were literally dead. I really thought they would just fall off.

I think I made it to bed by 2am and got up an 7am to catch my train. To be continued. . .

Amazing

2007-06-30T11:39:00.000-05:00

Paris has been amazing. First, lemme comment on my previous post.

I said I was almost homeless in Paris. There was a mixup with my credit card and my reservation and even though I called the hotel twice and e-mailed once since making my reservation in MAY and despite being given a key to a room when I arrived after paying, I was called approximately one hour after settling into my room. I was mistakenly placed in a triple and my reservation for a single had been cancelled. Imagine my horror as I faced the prospect of being homeless in Paris. I frankly couldn't afford the rate for the triple and definitely didn't need the space nor the balcony nor the view. . .OK, I digress. Anyway, the following morning, I spoke with the manager and assured him that I called on several occasions including the DAY I arrived in Paris to say I was on my way (since my flight was so delayed). If my reservation WAS cancelled, why didn't they see this before I got there and before I was given a key to my room. Hmmm?? I don't know. Anyway, I was moved to a single so crisis averted. The hotel (Excelsior in the Opera district) is quite nice for the price, but I've gotten so many suggestions for hotels closer to the center that next time, I will definitely stay no farther than the 1st-5th. I realize that since I'm traveling alone, part of the reason I'm afraid to go out by myself at night is because I will have to make my way back to the 9th which isn't that far away, but hey, I'm a woman alone at night. I have to think about these things.

So, today was spent walking like all day. I got up and decided to take the train to the Eiffel Tower and then took some photos of the Eiffel Tower and Champs du Mars. Asked a hot gendarmerie officer a question and looked into some amazing blue eyes.

Then I walked to the Seine and hopped on the RER C to Musee D'orsay. Spent about 2 hours there, then walked to rue St. Germain de Pres. Even though I haven't seen all the Paris neighborhoods, I really like St. Germain. It's so chic and cute. I could definitely see my self living there. I gathered up my courage to sit at Les Deux Magots. I say that because I would never go to a restaurant alone in the US because I feel silly eating alone. However, I wanted to be able to say that I people watched from a sidewalk cafe in Paris. So, I ordered a cafe creme and go about 3 cups out of it, so I could take my time. There was an English couple next to me, and the gentleman was quite entertaining. After about 30 or 40 minutes there, I walked around the neighborhood and browsed in the shops (Soldes are going on). I didn't buy anything but I enjoyed walking around. I decided to go to Sacre Coeur and hopped on the metro to Abesses. Then hiked up MANY stairs to the Sacre Coeur. I wasn't expecting that. How do the people who live up there make that hike every day? LOL, I remember a time when I used to be fit, though, so I guess that's how. I didn't hang around SC too long. I ended up walking from SC back to my hotel after a few detours. By the time I came home, my feet felt like lifeless stumps.

I'm pretty sure I'm going out tonight. I have to be able to say I enjoyed a bit of Paris nightlife. Will report back later. . .

J'arrive

2007-06-28T15:56:00.000-05:00

I am in Paris, and I don't know if it's the jet lag, but I feel. . .lonely.

I had a rough time getting to France. First, my JetBlue flight to JFK was put on hold. . .for 7 hours! That's right, my 2:40pm flight didn't get off the ground until 9pm. THEN on top of that, there was one point MID FLIGHT when air traffic control said we couldn't fly anymore. We had to stay put. I have never been so scared in my life. We were just sitting there, suspended in air. Yikes. Of course, because of the delay, I missed my connection to Air France. So, I had to call Student Universe, and pay $225 to get on the next flight, which was scheduled to leave at 7:50am. I got to JFK around 11pm or so and it took another 30 minutes before I could get my luggage. By the time I got everything and hustled to the AF counter, I asked if there was any fligh leaving before 7:50am because I really didn't want to sit in the airport for 7 hours. They told me it would be another $200, but when I explained the situation to them (and probably looked like I would have a nervous breakdown) they kind woman let me on the flight departing at 1:45am. Of course, that flight didn't actually get off the ground until 3am or so, but I was just happy to be on the plane to Paris at that point. So, what was the reason for all the delays? Really bad T-storms in New York. I almost changed my JetBlue flight to the one leaving at 11am because I had a hunch that I needed to give myself some more time. I wish I had spent the $25 dollars because it would have saved me a couple hundred. Well, lesson learned: do NOT get a connecting domestic to international flight (especially with non share airlines) with anything under 4 hours to spare. I can say with certainty I will never fly JetBlue again. Not that it was their fault that Air Traffic control wouldn't let us off the ground, but because the flight attendants were so blase about those of us who had to get connecting flights that had nothing to do with JB. Actually, they didn't even seem all that concerned with the connecting flights with JB.

Anyway the AF flight was smooth. The food was a disappointment. All the breads tasted a bit day old. But, I will probably stick with AF/Delta for my travel needs to Europe from now on. The AF flight attendants were very thorough, very distantly polite, and very French.

So, fast forward to right now. I'm in the hotel lobby typing this using the free wifi, but I may not have a place to sleep tomorrow! Of course! That's about par for the course of this trip so far. . .Anyway, for the sake of my sanity, I really can't go into that right now, but I will explain it later. Wow, this has been a rocky start for this trip. I'm pretty tired, so I'm going to head to bed after I plan tomorrow's itinerary. I really want to attack Paris and have a plan. I think I'll be up around 6am and get going. I'm also going to finally crack open my camera manual. (But I'll bring the backup just in case. . .)

Moving is HELL

2007-06-26T12:31:00.000-05:00

I am in moving hell. It looks a lot better than yesterday and my tears are less today, but I still have a good bit to do. My freind is on the way to help me cart my stuff over to the storage facility. Thank God.

*sigh*

I hate moving. After I move to my new place, I am not moving again until I leave this city. It's just too much. I've realized over the past couple months that I'm very sensitive to certain stressors. Starting last month, I was studying for a huge exam, and by the week of the exam (last week), I was having stomach pains and felt nauseous. This moving situation has lead to a headaches, and I can feel that my blood pressure is elevated. I'm not even kidding. Hypertension and stroke run in my family, and I think I'm starting to understand what my mom means when she says, "my pressure is up." I can just feel it. All the more reason for me to get myself healthy and de-stressed! Seriously, when I come back, I'm going to treat myself to yoga at least 1-2 times a month. I'm going to eat more fruits and veggies and learn to relax by deep breathing.

This crap will all be over soon!

Paris Je T'aime!

2007-06-24T20:02:00.000-05:00

I just found out Paris Je T'aime is showing here! Last time I checked the website it wasn't. I'm totally going tonight!

Return to Normalcy

2007-06-24T19:48:00.000-05:00

Well, things have settled down a little. I'm in the midst of packing as we speak. I'm doing laundry so my sheets and curtains will be clean when I come back home. I got my storage cell and picked up my keys, so I'm going to begin hauling my stuff there tomorrow. The public storage thing is new to me. It was a bit scary. My room is not that far from the entrance (thank goodness) but I have to go through a dark hallway to get to my room. It's dim and a bit dusty--not at all what I expected. But, I didn't see any bugs or anything. It looked clean. Still, I'll probably be wielding a can of bug spray anyway. Unfortunately, lots of friends are out of town, so I don't have anyone to help me tomorrow. I'm going to go in the daylight so I feel a little safer.

My apt looks so bare. But still in disarray. Ah well. It will look better tomorrow.

For the most part, my trip is in order. I need to print out boarding passes and hotel confirmations just for my own peace of mind. I need to make copies of my important documents as well. I still have a few leftover passport size photos just in case I need them.

I started packing my suitcase yesterday. I had been accumulating stuff for a while and it seemed like it was not a lot of stuff, but somehow, my suitcase is rebelling. It looks like I'm going to have to pack my shoes and toiletries in one suitcase and my clothes in my carry-on. Toiletries take up a lot of space (and weight a lot!). But, I suppose on the return journey, all that stuff will be used up so I should have more space on the way back. We'll see! Anyway, I'm gonna get back to packing. Might go to the movies later.

Le French Diet

2007-06-20T06:31:00.000-05:00

One of the things I'm most looking forward to in France is (bien sure) the food. But not because I want to overindulge or anything (I don't even like rich, traditional french food) but because I can't wait to have a higher quality of food to choose from. This morning, I got sucked into watching an infomercial fot Kevin Trudeau (who I think is a scam artist BTW) but he got me thinking. I've KNOWN that the food industry in the US is crack. What else could explain why I have a headache if I miss my daily dose of sweets? (a habit I'm weaning myself off, thank God!) What else could explain why I get mini-addictions to certain foods for a certain period of time?

When I went to Paris last year, I was amazed how my appetite was almost non-existent. I don't know if it's because I was so focused on sight seeing or what, because I simply *forgot* about eating. It was more of an afterthought--oh yeah, I guess I should eat today. I'm much more aware of my appetite normally. And considering the amount of walking we did daily, I'm surprised I wasn't ravenous.

I look forward to buying fresh fruit and vegetables at the markets and eating baguette and a little butter. I'm so looking forward to the yogurt as well. (Mamie Nova!) Although I won't be actively dieting per se, I think it will be interesting to see if my weight changes by the time I return to the US (which I suspect it will).

There are quite a few nutrition books about the French diet and French eating style. It will definitely be interesting to track how my own eating changes while in France.

Meltdown

2007-06-16T11:41:00.000-05:00

I am very stressed right now.

So stressed I was having palpitations for a few weeks. My eyelid was twitching a few days ago (a sure sign of stress). I've been waking up at night short of breath. I am falling apart.

Between school (studying for an exam) and trying to pack my life into a few boxes and move out of my apartment and move abroad for the summer. I am slowly losing it. I have so many little tasks to do: verify I have a seat on the flight (check), purchase a connecting flight to NY (check), test my new phone and SIM card (check), suspend my American cell phone, suspend my car insurance, figure out where to store my car, pick up the keys for my storage room, pack, shop for last minute needs, go to Church. . .are you tired yet? I know I am. That's only half of the stuff on my list.

Right now, I'm focussing on deep breathing and making small steps. Packing and shredding papers a little at a time. Packing up books and mags into my trunk. Lining up shoe boxes. Packing away things I don't need. Just taking it a little at a time. I don't really have anyone to complain too after all (as my family reminds me) this was MY choice. Right?

But if I can just make it to the week after next, I'll be in France, sipping on un cafe and traipsing down the Champs. I just need to get there. And all will be right again.

Why am I such a procrastinator?

2007-06-08T23:44:00.000-05:00

I have exactly 2 weeks until I roll out of the US and I haven't even begun to pack up my apartment. I need to put all my crap in storage because when I return to the US, I will be moving into a newer, better, shinier apartment. It's going to be a hassle though, because I won't have any furniture or anything when I return. And I'll probably be too exhausted to go furniture shopping on the day I come back. Shoot, I may just bum with friends for the night.

I'm also starting to think I may not need to bring two suitcases with me after all. Look, it's already June. The year is HALF OVER. My measly 2 months is going to go so quickly that I'll probably just overpack if I bring two suitcases. I'm starting to think it won't be necessary at all.

I bought a SIM card about a week ago (to go with my new quad band phone) and I have my new international number. I'm just waiting for it to arrive. I purchased it from United Mobile after extensive (and I means months) of research on various travel forums. It seemed to have the best rates with free incoming calls and outgoing calls at a rate of 49 cents a minute. I liked the idea of having a phone as soon as I touched down. I didn't want to have to worry about going to a tabac to buy a phone card. So hopefully it will get here soon (since it's coming from the UK). If I combine the UM card with call back service, I can get rates to the US for as low as 14 cents a minute.

I think I'm gonna head to bed soon. I need to go to Home Depot and buy some boxes. I'm also going to trash the class notes I've been holding onto for 2+ years. I also have a trunk full of books that I don't need, but since I am a pack rat, I still have them. Gotta start whittling things down.

This is why I travel with Airborne

2007-05-30T18:12:00.000-05:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070530/ap_on_he_me/tuberculosis_infection

Mi dispiace, non parlo italiano.

2007-05-17T15:40:00.000-05:00

I'm very fascinated by other languages and I wish it was something I had time to work on. I feel like an underachiever because I *only* speak English. How I wish I was fluent in French and had a working knowledge of a third language.

A lot of my interest in languages comes from my interest in traveling as well as other hobbies. I think if you go to a strange country, you should try and learn a few phrases. Saying hello, please, thank you and do you speak english in another person's language may make him or her more apt to help you.

Even though I don't have time to work on it now, one of my favorite language sites is BBC Languages:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages

They have an awesome French program series with videos. It's where I learned the word tartiflette hehe. The site has the essential phrases for several languages. If I manage to learn French well enough during my stay, I think I may tackle Italian next. It's a very pretty and sexy language. Can you imagine an Italian guy whispering sweet nothings in your ear? Even if he's just saying grazie or arrivaderci, itjust sounds hot. I'm also curious about German and Danish but my brain probably couldn't handle those languages. I have a fairly good ear for repeating and copying sounds so that should suffice for those languages should I ever visit German speaking countries or Denmark.

Odds and Ends

2007-05-14T21:22:00.000-05:00

My apartment now has a corner where I'm starting to store the stuff I'm collecting for the trip.

I got a new suitcase:

It's a Bill Blass 24" that can expand about 3 more inches. Sort of a brown and cream houndstooth pattern that should still work with my black carry on. I got a patterened one for easy identification among the usual sea of black suitcases. I usually don't check luggage but I didn't think I could get away with just the small carry on for the summer. Although I will say, www.thefashionspot.com is inspiring me to use only a few base pieces of clothing and building different outfits from there.

Here's a neat travel set that I got at Walmart:

At only $6.88 it was a deal and it isn't some weird shape that won't fit properly in my suitcase. The print is very tropical, no?

Last week, I bought my plane tix so I am actually leaving. It's real now. I shelled out $900 bucks (which I'm told is a good deal). My subletter decieded that he was interested in signing a lease for my apartment for the whole year so it looks like I will be able to get my name officially off the lease for July and August. Don't get me wrong, I think my subletter is a great guy and seems upstanding, but I'd feel a lot better not worrying if the rent is actually being paid. Cross your fingers and toes that everyting goes through!

Oh, and I'm OFFICIALLY a member of expat-blogs! I'm so excited to be able to share this blog with a wider audience. Let me say it again: I LOVE comments. So please if you're reading, let me know. That site was where I got addicted to quite a few blogs of people who moved abroad. It got me thinking that, "hey, I could do it too!" I promise to try and post more regularly.

New Home?

2007-05-11T19:22:00.001-05:00

Here's to hoping I make the cut. It's time to take this blog worldwide, baby.

Another Door Opened

2007-05-07T16:26:00.000-05:00

Well, today I received my acceptance letter from the French government:

I could potentially be teaching high school students in Lyon for 7 months! How cool is that? Lyon is the second largest city in France besides Paris and it's close to Paris and the south of France. The academie is also somewhat small so if I'm not placed in the actual city of Lyon, I will be pretty darn close. Vive Lyon!

Unfortunately, the news is bittersweet because my mother is very unsupportive of my, shall we say, international aspirations. It makes everything harder, you know? It makes me feel guilty for wanting these things for myself and for thinking outside the box.

*sigh*

But this is anything that I'm not used to. But you know what? What it comes down to is this: I'm going to do what the freak is best for ME. I don't give a damn about what anyone else thinks because people are only concerned about themselves. So maybe it's time I became un peu narcissistic, right?

The reality is, there's a chance I won't be able to do the program, not because I don't want to or because I'm scared, but because financially, it will be a burden to go. I have a car note and have one more year to go on that. Also, I'm already going to Europe this summer. Maybe I'm doing too much? Also, where will I live when I come back from Europe this summer for the month until I go back to France? THESE are my real concerns, not what my freaking family thinks. Anyway, despite the possibility of not going and the lack of enthusiasm shown by my family, I'm going to relish in the idea that I could be living in Europe for (almost) a full year (counting my two months this summer).

Nice is nice.

2007-05-04T21:48:00.000-05:00

I just booked a hotel in Nice for the end of my trip. It's been my dream for a couple years to lie on the beaches of the Mediterranean and I will finally have my chance! I'm staying at the Hotel Regeance which is just off the beach in Nice along the Place des Anglais. I'm staying in Nice because it's the central point to get to the rest of the Riviera. I'd like to take a day trip to Monaco and St. Tropez.

Every so often, I have to remind myself that this isn't a 2 month vacation. I will be working and I shouldn't forget that! I intend to enjoy ever moment of every day of those 8 weeks, but ultimately, I'm trying to make a good impression so I have a job in a few years after I finish school. Gosh, how cool would it be to actually be moving to Paris for good?

Since starting this blog, a lot has happened. I'm moving even closer to my dream. I don't even know if anyone reads this darn thing (since I rarely get comments) but I hope it's inspiring someone out there to really reach for the Moon. You can never be wrong for striving.

I hope to purchase my plane tix by early next week. I've been watching fares for a while, and they don't seem to be coming down. STA travel said they had a flight for $700 (?) a week or two ago. I hope they still have it. I'm usually choosy about what airline I fly on (I'm loyal to Delta and Air France for flights to Europe). But Delta has been high high high. I also heard Swiss Air is nice. Of course, I'll post details when I know more.

Memories light the corner of my mind. . .

2007-05-02T15:12:00.000-05:00

OK, so this movie that I'm about to review doesn't take place in Paris, but the protagonist wanted to live there, so it's close enough. If you don't know already (shame on you!) I'm talking about the incredibly moving The Way We Were starring the diva herself, Barbra Strreisand and Robert Redford. I became an instant fan of Barbra's after seeing her nail her role as Fanny Brice in Funny Girl. It's been me and Barbra ever since.

The Way We Were has a very simple premise: boy finds the nonconformist girl attractive. Noncomformist girl finds the All American boy super cute. Their attraction is unsettled by the end of their college graduation where they part ways. He joins the navy and she becomes slightly more conventional (at least in terms of her hairdo). Katie and Hubbel are the quintessential opposites attract couple. Technically, they shouldn't be together. And ultimately it's their differences that draw them together and pull them apart.

The movie is a pleasure to watch. You see the relationship unfold between Hubb and Katie. You get the feeling they really love each other, faults and all. They come from different worlds, and the movie emphasizes this. You also see Katie trying to fit in to his world by looking more the part, but she will never fit in--not because she can't, but because she won't. Katie believes that love is enough and as long as they have that, they can get through anything.

Everything changes when they move to Hollywood, which represents temptation, facade, and even danger. It's harder for real love to survive there. The viewer can also see that the marriage is a little off. Katie dreams about moving to Paris or China ("maybe") and plans a life where Hubb will continue to write books and live up to his potential while Katie stays polotically active. We learn towards the end, that he's been humoring her while she plans their future life, never really communicating with her that he has no desire to write or move abroad. That's one of the things that disturbs me about Hubbell. He always seemed so introverted. He never really expressed his love for Katie in so many words. Katie loved him with her whole self and you can definitely tell.

The last 3 or 4 scenes of the movie are where Streisand and Redford really show their acting chops. By the end, you can see just how much Hubb loved Katie. It's in his face, his voice, the way he hugs her, the way he gazes at her before saying the final goodbye. You can see that the man truly loved her. So why wasn't enough? He was weak and she was stubborn. I think Katie wasn't willing to give even an inch and Hubb just wanted a simple life. So of course, without compromise, there can be no relationship. So you have two people who love each other deeply, but just aren't meant to be.

I've watched this move countless times, and complained that the end is so tragic. They never get together. He never calls her to come for a drink. He never connects with his daughter. (In fact, I wonder if his new wife even realized that her man was talking with his ex-wife and the mother of his child!). You just don't get the typical Hollywood ending. But I finally realized after watching the movie for the zillionth time that you get something much better: resolution. How much worse would it be if Katie never saw him again? What if the movie ended right after the hospital scene? Then we really would have had a bad taste in our mouths. At least they get to say goodbye and I think, Hubb finally opens up and lets her know that even though she was the best thing that ever happened to him, he just couldn't deal with it. So now, when I watch the movie, I still get a bit teary at the end, but then I remember that resolution is probably the next best thing that could have happened.

So, anyone been in a real life Katie-Hubbell situation? I have, and it sucks. . .

Sublet Success!

2007-05-01T14:57:00.000-05:00

In the space of a week, I found someone to sublet my apartment for the summer. Now, that's what I call efficient. This is great because it takes a load off my mind as far as wondering about paying for rent her and rent abroad. Thank you God! (Now, this next part involves a bit of strong language so if you would like to retain your pristine image of moi, please skip this next part.)

Now, the leasing manager of my apartment building is a real bitch. I hate and despise her and when I am finally moved out of that apartment for good, I am either going to slap the bitch or curse her out. She knows nothing about customer service. Even though I had someone interested in subletting my apartment, she refused to get involved in the subleasing process. I wanted to completely clear my name of the lease and have the subletter officially take over my lease. Keep in mind that I spoke with that ho 3 different times before about subletting and suddenly when I actually have someone to sign, she says they don't get involved with summer subletting. Now, what the hell is the difference between subletting over the summer and over the school year? Bitch-ho.

Now, why, you ask, would a classy girl like me put up with that kind of treatment for 3 years? Well, the apartment was dirt cheap, and I liked being so close to campus. Next year, I won't be on campus so it was the perfect opportunity to move. I am moving on up to the apartment complex that I have always wanted to live in since I moved here. I was just biding my time and waiting for the right time to move.

Back to our regularly scheduled program! So, I'm praying that all turns out well with the sublessee and that he pays the rent on time. I don't want to have that hanging over my head over the summer.

I've officially started my workout plan. I plan to work out every day for the next 30 days at least and into June as well. Y'all don't hear me: European beaches + hot Euro guys= work out and get that bod tight! I cannot be chubby in Europe. My legs are in pain right now, but pain is good. I love the feeling of tight muscles when I walk around. In addition to my daily cardio, I will be alternating the Firm's upper body workout and the original advanced Tae Bo workout for lower body. Whew!

Hotel Excelsior Opera

2007-04-24T19:06:00.000-05:00

Currently, I have a reservation at Hotel Excelsior Opera. It's a 3 star hotel in the 9th in Paris. I know I know, I said I wanted to be more central (perhaps the 7th or 8th) but the 9th will have to do. From the reviews that I read, the neighborhood is really lively. It's close to the Galleries Lafayettes (shopping!) and close to the beautiful Garnier Opera House. The last time I was in Paris, I spent a few hours in the area, but not enough to really get the experience. Here's a photo:
Even though it's in the 9th, it's at the border and very close to Boulevard Haussman. Anyhoo, not that it matters. I'll be hoofing it most of the time anyway. I just want to be in a safe but lively neighborhood so I can venture out after dark and not feel scared. The hotel got 4/5 stars on Trip Advisor and 7.6/10 on Venere. It has the amenities that I need: wi-fi and a/c. The rooms look to be a decent size, but that doesn't matter much. I just need to be sure and e-mail the hotel that I want a non-smoking floor and as nice a view as possible. Here's the view I had last time:

Not much, is it?

Well, that's one thing taken care of (unless I find a better hotel and a better deal.)

Next thing I want to do is stamp out an itinerary. Since I'm going alone, I can do whatever I want! I don't have to check in with anyone else to see if what I want to do is ok. I already know I want to spend more time in the chic St. Germain district. I'd also like to roam around the Sorbonne if I'm allowed to. Lunch and people watching at Les Deux Magots is a must. I'd like to do the Louvre again but without trying to see it all. That is impossible to do in a day. Trust me. I tried. Musee d'Orsay is of course on the list. But I don't want to do the exact same thing I did last time. I didn't get to Sacre Coeur last time (sacrilige!) so I've gotta do that. I'm toying with the idea of Giverny, but it may be trying to cram too much in such a short time. Can anyone recommend any clubs or bars to hang? I've gotta experience the nightlife.

Desperately seeking hotel

2007-04-22T08:26:00.000-05:00

I am in the process of booking a hotel in Paris. I'm going to spend a few days in my favorite city before heading to my destination for 2 months. I love that Paris has so many hotels that fit every budget. The problem is finding the best one for your budget. Last time I stayed in Paris, I syated at Grand Hotel de Paris in the 10th. It was fine since I didn't spend much time there anyway. Maybe it was just a little too dark and there were limited tv options. It was an experience to see what a Paris hotel is like: tiny lifts, interesting decor, oddly shaped rooms. But that's what makes Paris hotels charming, I guess.

This time I'd like to be a little more aggressive in my search. Last time, I booked through www.venere.com and would like to use them again. So what I'm doing is searching on Venere and cross referencing with www.tripadvisor.com to get hotel reviews and photos taken by the people who stayed there (not the glammed up photos the hotel displays).

Look, I'm a pretty simple girl--I just need a bed and a CLEAN space. I don't care so much about the view or the decor. I also need to be in a more central location. I did a lot of walking last time I was in Paris (barely used the metro at all) and I'd like to follow suit this time. Since it will be warmer when I'm there this time compared to last time, I'd like to spend more time being out and about, sitting in sidewalk cafes and people watching. And hopefully meeting some locals.

What else do I need? A/C, wireless internet (to instantly upload photos and update this blog and e-mail family and friends) and I think that's it. If anyone has reviews, give me the 411. I tend to be very indecisive, but I'd like to pick something and just go with it. I also need to work on my Paris itinerary. I don't intend to waste a moment in Paris.

Travel basics

2007-04-14T16:38:00.000-05:00

Today I returned the suitcase I bought a few weeks ago. It was a 25" expandable suitcase. When I bought it I wasn't sure what size it was, but I got it because it's bigger than my current carry on. I was originally standing in line with a 28" suitcase when a sympathetic woman said "you know you're going to have to automatically pay more for that size, right?" So I swapped for the "smaller" size. Unfortunately, I can't carry that one on either. I have a fear of checking luggage. I've only done so ONCE, and it scared me to death (fear of loss, theft, accidental theft)

So my plan is to find a 21" expandable roll aboard that I can carry on for the outbound trip and expand and check on the returning trip. I'm also planning to buy an expandable tote bag that I will pack flat for the journey and expand upon coming back to the States. That will be my carry on for the return trip. Even though I don't foresee bringing back a lot of stuff, I do want to buy souvenirs for family and friends. And I'll probably collect stuff during the trip. So the duffel bag will be for that. I'm a little skeptical that I can only get away with a 21" suitcase full of clothes for the trip, but I've been urged to not bring more than one suitcase by travel savvy internet people. We'll see though. I'd rather be unhappy lugging my bags around for a few hours going and coming than unhappy for a few months because I left a lot of things at home. . .

And they're off!

2007-04-10T18:54:00.000-05:00

I've already started obsessing about my trip abroad. Like any other fashion conscious girl, my main concerns are: what am I going to wear? Since this is a working holiday, I'll need to bring an assortment of separates that can be mixed and matched: a lot of black and gray with splashes of color added. Then of course, I'll need clothes for after work and weekends, when I'm just walking around enjoying the city. Things like jeans, skirts, fitted t shirts, cute sandals, etc. I already bought a pair of comfy sandals for walking. They're black so they should go with mostly everything. Then, there's clothes for church and going out. I think a sundress or two and some skirts will suffice for church. Jeans and cute tops will probably suffice for "club wear." Of course, I won't do any major clothes shopping unitl I'm satisfied with my body. I'm working out and desperately trying to watch what I eat with the hope of losing some pounds for the trip. Then, I'll go on a shopping spree right before I leave. I called a travel agency today just to get an idea of prices for the plane tickets. Right now, I'm looking at about $1160 dollars. I think if I see any price under of very close to $1000 I'll grab it. Prices aren't looking to good right now.

Besides an ISIC card I need to figure out what else I might need. Because money will be tight, I don't think I'll be able to gallyvant around Europe (tant pis) but I am planning to start in Paris, and spend the last days of my trip on the Riviera before leaving from Paris. Is there any big event going on in Europe that I simply must see? If so, leave me a comment.

Alright, gotta hit the books or there will be no summer!

Newsflash

2007-04-09T17:30:00.000-05:00

I WILL BE IN EUROPE FOR THE SUMMER!!!

I look forward to testing the waters since I really want to live abroad in the near NEAR future. It's one thing to have a dream, but it's another to actually pursue it. Will I like living in Europe? Will it be scary? Will I get lonely? Or will I make friends more easily there? Will I let my guard down? Will I learn to just let go? Will I go topless on a beach? (hahaha) Will I find more of myself? Hopefully, all these questions will be answered as I prepare to go and as I arrive there. Tomorrow, I will print out a calendar to hang in my room and start counting down to realizing my dream.

I also got a new camera on ebay today. I got a canon A560, with 7.1 megapixels and 4x optical and digital zoom. My current camera is a Fuji Fine pix A205 with only 3 megapixels so I expect the quality of these pics to be much better. My current digi cam is OK for some things since I don't print very many pics out. However, it works better in outdoor conditions. I haven't quite mastered how to take nice indoor pics. Hopefully the canon isn't too complicated to figure out.

Bah Humbug

2007-04-07T09:15:00.000-05:00

It's a terrible thing the realize half-way through your degree that you are in the wrong field. And there's nothing you can do to get out of it. The past 2 years of graduate school have been a mix of triumph and tragedy. I've really discovered who I am as a person and what I want out of life. I can almost reach out and touch the life that I want to have. Alas, the pathway that I've chosen to reach my goals seems to be pulling me farther away from them.

I guess I'm in a somewhat bad mood because it's April yet this morning when I got up to hit the gym, it was snowing. Now, it's not like I want to work out in the first place. But the weather certainly did not encourage my effort to be at the gym by 9am. Of course, I turned back into my apartment and had a smoothie for breakfast.

Now, I'm at the library blogging when I should be studying, wishing that I had the kind of career or was taking the kind of classes that didn't require me studying on a Saturday.

The only silver lining in this cloud is that all will be well come June. If I can make it to June, I will be okay.

Random Shot: Winged Victory

2007-03-04T18:57:00.000-05:00

Work update

2007-02-17T13:53:00.000-05:00

I started my new job last week. Unfortuantely, my start coincided with a big snowstorm so I had to (gasp) call off on the third day. I'm not the type of person to do that and I felt really bad, so to make up for it, I went in on Thursday after I dug my car out of the mounds of snow. I didn't want to give my new boss the impression that I'm a slacker. I think the job will be ok. It's 4 hours a night and it pays relatively well. I think I'm only going to work 8 hours a week so my school work shouldn't suffer. I should be able to study between class and work and go to bed when I get home.

I am making progress towards my goal of moving to Europe. I have some news to share, but not right now. Just know that I am one step closer!

Ramdom Shot

2007-02-09T16:46:00.000-05:00

I had to get a shot of all the scooters/mopeds/Vespas that people get around on in Paris. I've never taken a ride on one, but it is definitely something on my list to try.

Movies en France: Before Sunset

2007-01-29T20:36:00.000-05:00

OK, I thought I'd start something new to a) keep the posts coming and b) talk about France! I thought I'd do a series of posts about my favorite movies that take place in France. France is the ideal situation for a drama or a romance, so it's not surprising that some of my favorite movies take place there.

Many of you will recognize Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy from the poignant Before Sunset. Like a lot of movies that I end up loving, I saw the sequel before I saw the prequel and had to go back and rent the prequel to make sure I didn't miss anything! In Before Sunrise, a Hawke, an American man, and Delpy, a French woman, meet on a train to Vienna and discover a connection. They spend one night together and agree to meet again 6 months later if they feel the same. They part without exchanging information (this was 1994, kids, WAY before e-mail and cellies were the norm). The sequel picks up 10 years later. He's a best-selling author doing a book tour and Paris is his last stop. It is painfully clear in the first 15 minutes of the movie that the two didn't end up meeting as he discusses his book, a "fictional" account of their meeting. She appears at the bookstore, startling him and they decide to walk and talk. We find out that he actually went back to the train station to meet her but unfortunately, her grandmother's death prevented her from meeting him. To make matters worse, we later learn that while he lived in NY, she also spent some time living in the city. The times when he thought he saw her, were not illusions. He actually saw her. To drive in the knife a little deeper, they talk about their current relationships. He is married with a child. She is dating but obviously not happy. They are both just existing. They've accepted that life is just what it is--not full of the hope and possibility that they once felt when they were young and could meet strangers on a train and fall in love. Life is full of monotony and responsibilities. They have both grown up. As you watch the discourse between them (it's less like a movie and more like eavesdropping) you feel a lot of different emotions. You go through the happiness and sadness that they both do. You feel something with this film.

I recently lent this to a friend and she just felt depressed after she watched it. It's definitely a little heavy, but the movie has a lot of humanistic value. I like the idea of meeting your soulmate in a totally random way: on a train in a foreign country. I totally believe in soulmates and it's kinda of cool to think that meeting him doesn't have to be this huge production. I don't have to get gussied up to go to a club and try to hypnotize him with my dancing. I could be sitting alongside a quai writing in my journal. Or I could be on a plane. Or in a cafe.

The movie ends on a hopeful yet open note. The director kind of leaves it up to your imagination to decide what's going to happen. In my version, he misses his plane back to the states. It's hard to imagine him giving up his wife and child but it's also hard to imagine him giving up his true love. If you get a chance, rent this movie. I'd love to hear what other people think about it.

Success!

2007-01-24T18:17:00.000-05:00

I was offered two jobs today! One, I interviewed for last week and one I had the interview for today and was offered it right on the spot! Woo hoo! I can breathe a sigh of relief that I will have a little money coming in again. I think they will both be low stress and low key. I'll get into more detail after I know more about what I'll be doing.

God is good.

Happy Times

2007-01-17T16:41:00.000-05:00

I know that Jackie O is the big sis that get's most of the attention, but I'm favoring Lee R more and more. Happy times documents Lee Radziwell's life in glossy pics. Trips to India and Conca. Beach house in the Hamptons. Diva style and attitude. Audrey Hepburn-like grace. You know, if someone reminds me of Audrey, chances are they are ok in my book! And I just love the the cover pic. Check it out if you're looking for a fun, frothy, light read. I'm definitely going to buy this book. It's one of the picture books by Assouline. This would make a great book for the coffee table.

Random Shot

2007-01-17T16:36:00.000-05:00

I've been neglecting this blog as I get back into the swing of classes. Sincere apologies. Here's "Four Captives" from the Louvre. I'm a huge sculpture lover so many more of these to come!

Living for the future vs. living in the moment

2007-01-11T23:34:00.000-05:00

I have an inability to focus on the present. I think it's a fault. Some peple would call me a planner or even better, a dreamer. But I think it's sorta excessive. Don't get me wrong, I firmly believe that you bring into your life the things you plan for and meditate on. (sorry to get new-agey) But, when what you want doesn't seem to be close, it makes you question if it will ever happen.

For instance, my wanting to get to France won't bring that goal into fruition until I get an opportunity to go. Like, I can't just pick up and fly to France tomorrow with no job and no official reason to go. Another one of my dreams is to live in Manhattan and live out my "Breakfast at Tiffany's fantasy." Again, not likely to happen tomorrow.

Something that I need to work on is being content with where I am. Even though I have all these goals and all these dreams, being frustrated with my current situation constantly isn't going to help me. In fact, that negative energy is pulling me down. I need to start thinking of how I can be better once I achieve my goals. It'd be nice to be thinner in France. I can work on that. Speaking French more fluently would be nice too. I can work on being more consistent with my French podcasts. I can try to read more to beef up my brain. I can try to paint and draw more to use my creative energy. I can try to love more to attract love to me. I can be more active and eat better to treat my body well.

I realize, that the present doesn't have to be as stale as it feels. There's a lot of "little" things I can do that will only enhance my future. Whining won't help. Looking wistfully at my Paris pics won't help. Being grateful for what I have right now? That might make the difference.

No white tablecloths or Bing Crosby playing a piano

2007-01-08T00:21:00.000-05:00

So, I went home to Maryland for two weeks in December. My mother has a phobia of flying which she passed on to me. I don't really have a phobia, though. I've flown quite a few times and even went to Paris, but for some reason, my mother's voice is in the back of my mind when I'm maing travel arrangements.

Anyway, I made plans to take the Amtrak from Pittsburgh to Washington DC. The ride was supposed to take 8 hours. By the way, did I tell you I had to get from Ohio to P-burgh by bus because there is no train station close to me? Also, I should mention that the bus and train schedule aren't very compatible so I ended up at the Amtrak station at 11pm. . .waiting for the train to depart at 5:45 am. *deep sigh*

As I'm typing this, I know how ridiculous this sounds. Anyway, the train is delayed. Not 1 hour. Not even a semi-respectable 2 hours. The train doesn't leave until almost 9am!!!! I was so pissed. I wasted 10 hours of my life sitting in an Amtrak station in the middle of nowhere with bums waiting for the train. At one point, Pittsburgh's finest showed up to "escort" the non-passengers out of the station. I felt very unsafe sitting in the train station at that time of the night/morning. This obviously mentally disturbed guy kept trying to talk to me. I put my headphones on to tune him out. He didn't get the message cause he kept talking.

Anyway, by the time I got on the train, I was pretty much up. You know when you're so tired that the tiredness phase passes and your body just stays awake? I tried to find a plug for my laptop so I could at least watch movies, but unfortunately, there were none in the car. The Amtrak guy wasn't keen on letting me search for an outlet either. Eventually I fell asleep to be woken up about an hour later. The train had stopped and apparently it had broken down. I was delayed for ANOTHER hour. That train ride was without a doubt one of the most miserable experiences of my life. Now, I've made the journey from Ohio to NY and Ohio to DC by Greyhound. Although it's no picnic either, I tolerated it.

Well, suffice it to say, once I got to my destination, I cancelled my retun ticket. Once I got home, I booked a one way ticket home on Southwest. Total flight time? 1 hour and 30 minutes. Amount of sanity sacrificed? None. Amtrak is great: comfortable, roomy, clean. But Amtrak is ONLY for short trips (i.e. 4 hours or less). I would gladly take to train from DC to NY orNY to Boston. Never for trips longer than 4 hours, though.

If you're wondering about the title, it's from Sex and the City. Carrie and Samantha thought it would be old world romantic to take the train cross country. Upon realizing the reality of the situation, Carrie says, "I thought there'd be white tablecloths and Bing Crosby playing the piano." They took a flight back home, too.

I want. . .yogurt!

2007-01-07T21:33:00.000-05:00

I'm craving Mamie Nova yogurt. In Pistachio. Yum.

New sneakers

2007-01-06T17:34:00.000-05:00

I just got new sneakers. I'm not really a sneaker girl but I was looking for a new pair for working out (I'm starting my new year's fitness regimen tomorrow--eh hem, only 7 days late!).
I happened to be in Marshall's today, killing time and spotted these New Balances on the left for a mere $25 and the Avias on the right for a mere $19.99! The sneaker gods smiled on me because for someone who only wears sneakers to work out, I scoff at spending the 55 bucks the sneakers--on sale--cost. I ended up buying the second pair because I could see myself wearing these around town on my "off" days. Navy blue became my favorite color last year, and these NBs will looks good with jeans and sweats. The Avias are kinda blah, but who cares? They're for slaving away at the gym.

Today I submitted an application to adopt a cat. Sheesh, I feel like I'm adopting a child. I honestly don't know if I'm ready for it, but my friend who has a cat assures me they are self sufficient. I just feel like I need some life in my apartment. At first, I thought about getting a plant, but I have no window sills. Then I thought about fish, but I'm not a fish person really. They'd be merely for decoration, and I feel guilty about that. I'm a total dog person, but dogs require more time than I can give. So finally, I thought, what about a cat? I'm particular about what kind of cat I want (again, superficial reasons). But since I don't consider myself a cat person, I should get whatever cat that I will feel most comfortable with. I looked at a black cat and a gray cat today. I originally was going to look at the gray cat, but she was kind of frisky. (Maybe too much for a first time owner.) The black cat was very quiet and subdued. I basically put the names of both cats on the application and if I'm accepted, I guess I can make a decision then. I feel so grown up at the possibility of being responsible for another life! I'll (of course) update the blog when I know what the deal is. A tout a l'heure.

A few pics from DC

2007-01-05T22:11:00.000-05:00

The pic came out blurry, but I love this quote.

Yes, this is the Ford theater where Lincoln was shot. I had a pic of the balcony where he was, but it came out too dark. It's set up like a shrine.

The National Portrait Gallery

At the metro, heading to downtown DC after a failed attempt to get to New York.

Back in class

2007-01-03T13:55:00.000-05:00

Bleh. School is really starting to wear me down, now. I don't know how much more I can take. I told my sister that if I'd had an idea that I was going to become so addicted to travel and so intent on living in Europe, I should have gotten a law degree or an MBA instead. Then, I could have studied international law or finance and truly been a woman of the world. Ah well. No use crying about something you can't change. Besides, I think everything happens for a reason.

Tomorrow, I'll try and post pics from downtown DC.

Here's a pic from November when I was at Georgetown:

Pretty, right? Don't be fooled: the cobblestone streets are murder on your feet.

Red Square

Healy Circle/Building

Random shot

2007-01-02T13:48:00.000-05:00

Outside the Louvre (pronounced LOOV). The setting of The Davinci Code which I haven't read and alas cannot watch for personal reasons. I must say I was highly tempted to watch the DVD when I discovered that Audrey Tatou (of Amelie fame) was in the movie. Tatou is my French girl crush. . .well, she would be if I liked women.

Anyway, the Louvre is HUGE. I don't know why I thought I could see it all in a day. And I made a valiant attempt, foolish girl that I am. I did manage to see a good deal of it. But by the time I got to the level that has Mona Lisa where paintings cover every square inch of the corridor walls, I got light headed. And for an art-phile (did I make that up?) like myself, that's not an easy feat. Ah well. I saw all the major works and Napoleon's gorgeous apartments.

The Human Stain

2006-12-31T22:13:00.000-05:00

I'm watching this movie right now. Should I be ashamed to admit the initial reason for me watching it is Wentworth Miller? (sheepish grin)

The story in a nutshell: a very light skinned black male decides to pass for white. He marries a white woman and ceases all communication with his black family. The big problem I have with the movie is that they never tell us WHY Coleman Silk decides to pass. Was it for love? Was it so his life would be easier? I guess they allude to the latter because we see his father, a trained optician, working as a waiter on Amtrak. Coleman doesn't want that. He wants to be accepted for who he is (which he ironically ISN'T since he doesn't tell people he's black) without out being labeled. Also, why was Coleman so light? It would have been nice if they told us how the family came to be mixed race. (Rape? A taboo consensual relationship from the past?) And the biggest question I had, was Coleman really Jewish? Was his black family Jewish? And why was Kerry Washington only in the movie for a second? Did Coleman actually go back to the record store to talk to her and explain why he was passing? You know, when I saw her name in the credits, I thought there would be some kind of relationship between them. No. Such. Luck.

When I look at Anthony Hopkins, I definitely don't see a black man. And when I look at Wentworth, I don't see a 100% white person. But the movie did make me think about how many other people may be passing. I've seen people who make you do a double take and I do know of a Mexican girl passing for European. But I digress. . .For more about passing, read Nella Larsen's book, appropriately called Passing. I might read the book that the movie is based on because it's possible that the book explains why Coleman was passing. The movie doesn't do a good job of putting the whole picture together. One last thing: was Nicole Kidman's character really necessary? She and Les added a complexity that the story really didn't need since that energy could have been spent dealing with the main storyline. I get that she was the only person Coleman confided in, but why? What was it about her that made him feel safe? And where were they driving when they crashed? And how did Les know they would be on the road at that time? I just have too many questions, lol.

The highlight of the movie was Wentworth. He's nice to look at and his voice is so deep. I need a guy like Wentworth in my life.

Happy New Year!

2006-12-31T20:24:00.000-05:00

Wanted: New Camera

2006-12-29T21:20:00.000-05:00

My camera is on it's last leg. I have a Fuji FinePix A205 and I bought it because I really needed a digi camera and it was $75 on ebay. It has served it's purpose, but I need a new camera with more. Maybe it's just that I don't know how to use it properly. I've tried reading the manual, but the pics aren't that great unless taken in natural light or with the flash. Lucky for me, it hasn't let me down when I really needed it (i.e. going to Paris or meeting Vogue editor Andre Leon Talley). Any ideas?

The blogger at ramblingcorner.blogspot.com takes amazing photos. I need to find out what camera he uses. Hopefully I can afford it!

2006 is winding down

2006-12-29T21:07:00.000-05:00

I'm ready for 2007! I always get antsy towards the end of a year, especially if it hasn't been a stellar year. This year was middle of the road. It started out well. I watched Queen Latifah's Last Holiday and finally got my butt in action and went to France. I had a blast, met a cute stranger at the airport who I didn't get a chance to thank for helping me get to my destination, picked the wrong foods at restaurants, saw the requisite tourist attractions, and fell in love with Paris.

This was also the year that I asserted my independence from the mind control my mother has over me. Not to say anything against her, but she has a lot of irrational fears that she passed on to me. It has been very hard breaking those chains but let's just say going to Paris was NOT encouraged by my family. :)

This is also the year that I decided that I wanted to move to France sooner rather than later (i.e. next year!). The career path that I'm on now won't give me a break for the next 6 years (at least) so I made the executive decision that I wanted to get in a year of travel and fun before I take the plunge and become a working adult with a true profession.

The rest of the year was uneventful. It's a blur actually. I didn't stick to my fitness goals. Bleh. But I DO have a plan for the new year. I know, I know. But I do. Besides, the possibility of going to the land of thin, chic women for a year is enough to inspire anyone to get in shape! Sunday, I'm just going to ring in the New Year's alone. I like using that time as a moment of reflection. I want to get going January 1 for real. No excuses about anything! I don't want to waste a moment not working towards any of the millions of goals that I have. It's just up to me to keep the fire going.

Random shot

2006-12-27T14:27:00.000-05:00

Jardin de Tuileries

Bienvenue!

2006-12-27T02:31:00.000-05:00

I think it's about time that I started blogging since I'm reading a dozen blogs myself! It's good blog karma, no? Read a blog? Post a blog!

I chose the name "the franco fille" because I love all things french: music, movies, the language, the country, eh hem, the men. . .I just love french culture! I plan to move there in the near and distant future. I recently applied to be a language assistant in France, and I have a 5 month wait before I hear my fate. I will definitely keep you posted on that process!

I'm a professional student (more about that later) and having a love-hate relationship with my career choice. I hit my mid-20s and suddenly realized that I wanted to travel, have international friends, and find the joie de vivre lacking in the U.S. Unfortunately, I am knee-deep in academia. I've decided that if I'm not accepted into the program, I will just have to find a way to spend 2 weeks backpacking in Europe next summer.

This blog will probably be all over the place--like me! I have so many different interests from art to film to fashion to french culture. So, if you're at all interested in ANY of the able, come back! It is my desire to blog daily. (we'll see how long I can keep it up!) I hope you enjoy what you read here. And I LOVE comments! Please lemme know you're reading.