desktop fleurish | prêt á voyager

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July tends to be a time of travel for so many of us, which is why the term Prêt á Voyager, or “ready to travel”, comes to mind. The lovely (free) wallpaper you see above was designed and penned by Lindsey Buck of The Hive Studio (who never ceases to amaze me with her talents). Each month we highlight a French word or phrase, and I’ll be honest – it’s been a challenge to choose something that represents an entire month (obviously Bastille Day is almost upon us, so that was tempting). I hope July is filled with excitement and relaxation for you…happy travels! Download the FREE designs here:

simple desktop | calendar desktop

please note that these designs are for personal use only + not available for commercial usage.

tour de france

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The countdown to Le Tour de France has begun! I started watching around 2004 (despite not even owning a bike) and my love for it has grown each year since. This is the ONLY sport I think about, look forward to, and obsess over. I’m a hardcore Francophile, so…DUH. However, there are many other reasons why this race gets me going. The lead up to it, the excitement, the preparation of all involved. The stamina and athleticism required to withstand even one day (with or without drugs) amazes me. Seeing the different regions and towns in France is a highlight for me – this year, the race begins at Mont-Saint-Michel, so I’m anticipating stunning scenery. I’ve been grooming the kids for a few years, and they’re finally old enough to watch it with me! Even if it’s for a few minutes, I’ll take what I can get. Vive le Tour!

this amazing graphic is by dave foster…you can buy the print here!

six year blogiversary!

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I’m celebrating my SIX year blog anniversary!! The official date was three weeks ago, but you know…#life. I’ve also had my nose to the grindstone – I have big plans for this year, and promise to keep things exciting! I’m commemorating the occasion with a look back at some of my favorite posts. It’s fun (and occasionally cringe-inducing) to look back through the archives…for me, it all began with a beret! This collage of images represents some of my favorite posts, and the press and collaborations I’m most proud of. I had no idea what would become of this space six years ago, but I’m oh so grateful for it’s growth and success, and the friendships I’ve developed in the process. I still enjoy it immensely, and it (almost) never feels like work. Thank you, as always, for joining me here  – a huge MERCI to each and every one of you.

my top six favorite posts

a day in parispaper + plans | the new fleurishing | henry et marie | things I’m afraid to tell you | my personal paris

les marquis de ladurée

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**February 2017 UPDATE: this space is now dedicated entirely to macarons**

I recently had the honor and thrill of photographing Les Marquis de Ladurée in Paris. Dedicated entirely to chocolate, this boutique is unique to Paris. As a lover of all things Ladurée, my expectations were high, and Les Marquis did not disappoint. From the logo, to the interiors, to the chocolate…I died and went to Francophile heaven. This exclusive boutique is the passion project of Mr. David Holder, the Chairman of Ladurée. He wanted to create a special home for chocolat within the brand, while maintaining the Ladurée standards of beauty and taste. The dedication to exceptional ingredients from around the world, combined with and artisanal production, is quite impressive. Well done, sir.

 

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desktop fleurish | été

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Summer has arrived, and is making it’s presence very known here on the East Coast. Spring temperatures had been lingering (which I was delighted about) but we’ve had 90 degree days (aka hibernation weather for us) the past week. However, as much as I dislike extreme heat, there is so much to love about this season. For me, happiness can be found in a crisp rosé, fresh strawberries, and ice cream (it seems my summertime joy revolves around eating + drinking). Été means summer in French, and I always associate the color green with this time of year, with everything looking so lush after the spring rain. Lindsey Buck created another inspiring wallpaper for June, so welcome summer on your desktop!

simple desktop | calendar desktop

please note that these designs are for personal use only + not available for commercial usage.