Category Archives: l’histoire

french roots…

 

 

Hattie

 

In the past few years I have been devoting a good bit of time to my family history, as I am so fascinated by it. To be fair, I'm the daughter of a history buff and a librarian, so researching my family tree is in my genes. These photos are of my paternal great-grandmother Hattie, circa 1880. They were taken in Boston where most of my father's family lived, however I have traced this particular line all the way back to French royalty! I am now focusing on obtaining more information on my mom's side, which is from the Alsace Lorraine region of France…they have been tougher, although I am five generations back so far. For me, understanding my roots has helped me develop a stronger sense of self, and has explained a lot in my life (hello francophilia)! I'm curious…what is your heritage, and do you feel that knowing your family history helps you identify more with yourself? 



le tour de france

tourdefrance

 

July,  for moi, means…Le Tour de France! I am not a cyclist. I don’t even own a bike at the moment- I’m still dreaming of this one. I sort of accidentally started watching the sport around 2004 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 know…I’m a francophile, so…it figures. However, there are so many other reasons why this specific race gets me going. The lead up to it, the excitement, the preparation of all involved is incredible. The stamina and athletisicm required to withstand even one day amazes me. It is very unfortunate that drugs have permeated cycling (but that’s another discussion entirely).  Seeing so many different regions and towns in France is a highlight for me, and keeps my mind off of those issues. I love watching the peloton, and the thrill I get watching the best battle it out on Alpe-D’Huez or le Galibier. Vive le Tour!

(image of Bernard Hinault & Greg Lemond, circa 1986)

 

royal love…

 

 

  Kate

 

An update…yesterday I watched in wonder, as did the world, as a real-life fairytale played out in front of me. I had to keep reminding myself I wasn't watching a movie…that it was REAL! Regardless of how you feel about the Royals, and all the pageantry, here is what matters most, in my opinion. In a world filled with negative media, war, poverty, and disasters, 2 billion of us watched a wedding together. A joyous celebration of love and happiness. That is powerful.

 

Princessdiana

 

This is not an obligatory royal wedding post, but rather a declaration that I am a hopeless romantic. I watched Princess Diana wed with my Mom, and although I was very little, the magic of the event and the fairytale has stayed with me. My Mom has always been obsessed with all things Royal, so naturally that trickled down. I may not take it to the same level as she does, but it is something we love to share. We will be watching the wedding of William and Kate with child-like wonder together, and that is the most memorable part of the day for me. 

 

image sources

historic preservation

DSC_0071

I have my parents to thank for my interest in history, and my local area for inspiring my love for historic preservation. Ever since moving to historic Chester County, Pennsylvania, I have been a bit obsessed with absorbing all the information I can, studying the regional history, and photographing as much architecture as possible. No matter where you go, history surrounds you. When a friend told me of the first annual Preservation Fair I was so excited by the idea…I just HAD to go! I nerded out (as my husband says) on so many experts under one roof…I learned quite a bit, and met many talented people. My passion continues to grow…