Category Archives: france

fleurishing in france

fleurishing-in-france

 

The time has come…I may already be en route by the time you read this! It’s been far too long since my last trip to France, and I’m beyond excited to visit with my family + friends, some of whom I’ve yet to meet! My first few days will be spent in the lovely Loire Valley, followed by Paris, where I’m renting an apartment. I’ll be on haitus from the blog while I’m gone, (the longest break I’ve taken from it in almost four years). If you’re in need of a french fix, you can always browse my francophilia + paris archives, and of course, I’ll have much more to share upon my return. In the meantime, you can follow my beautiful adventure on instagram + twitter, via the hashtag #fleurishinginfrance.

À tout à l’heure!

packing for paris

packing-for-paris

 

With one week to go (eeek!) until my departure, hardcore packing mode has commenced. Originally I was going to carry-on for my 10 day journey, but I’ve instead opted to check luggage (in a nicely sized, manageable suitcase). I’m a planner by nature, so I begin taking inventory of my wardrobe months in advance, and make lists galore. I’m not a trendsetter when it comes to fashion-I stick to the classics, and what I’m most comfortable in. Neutrals mixed with my current favorite accent, cognac, make getting dressed simple + easy on the go. As always, lightweight fabrics are the best, along with non-wrinkle materials. I usually try to avoid synthetic materials in clothing but honestly, some of the most travel-friendly pieces are a bit of a blend (i.e. cotton + poly). Layering is key, as weather can be fickle this time of year…a lightweight trench coat (or the like) is best. I enjoy coordinating the details the most-gloves, scarves, tech accessories, and my new favorite camera bag (thank you ONA)! Choosing shoes is always tough for me-hence my recent public opinion poll.

what are your favorite travel pieces?

i ♥ alsace

strasbourg-france

 

Today, and often, I have Alsace on my mind. It’s been three years since my last visit to this beautiful region of France, but it is always with me. My maternal great-grandmother, Marie, was the first of the family to immigrate to the States from Strasbourg (pictured above). My grandmother Florence was only 16 when her mother sadly passed from tuberculosis, but she shared so many lovely stories about her mother with me.  I’ve always wished to know more about Marie, and her mother, my great-great-grandmother (also Marie-seeing a pattern?!), to learn about their lives, and in turn, understand mine more deeply. Throughout my adult life I have searched for answers in my ancestry, and no place in France has ever felt more comfortable or familiar to me than Alsace. I take comfort in upholding family traditions and celebrating my heritage. Tomorrow I will be sharing an exciting collaboration, which incorporates my love for my Alsatian roots, festive celebrations, and the incredibly delicious food of the region. I can’t wait-come back tomorrow for the reveal!

paris je t’aime

paris-sunset-eiffel-tower

 

You may have noticed my francophilia has been on hiatus (here) lately, and that’s about to change. Early next year, I will be returning to my beloved France…my flights are booked!! I cannot wait to visit my brother and family, spend time with friends, and have exciting new experiences in my favorite city. After much deliberation, mr. fleurishing and I decided it wasn’t yet time to bring the children (see this post) …that day will come. For now, I am more than grateful for his encouragement to go, as much as I wish we could all travel together. Until I have fresh francophile content to share, you can get your fix in my archives here + here. I’m just so ridiculously giddy…let the planning begin!