my instagram life – year in review

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As we countdown to the end of 2016 (hooray + hallelujah), it’s fun to review my most liked Instagram images from the year. Looking back serves as a good reminder of all the happy memories we had this year, despite the ample challenges and struggles. It makes me smile to know that you guys love seeing my children and Paris equally (as do I), with some seasonal and design favorites tossed in as well. If you’re curious, you can link through below for more on each one. Thank you as always for your support and friendship throughout the year – each and every comment means so much. Here’s to a peaceful and prosperous 2017…it feels like it’s going to be a good one. Happy New Year mes amis!

ladurée ladyperfectly parisiannestingrooftop sunset

sunday vibesbirthday babespretty pottysnowball viburnums

we’re with herautumnalgolden girl#ihavethisthingwithfloors

facadeon the huntla tourlittle miss sunshine

our christmas

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Well, we finally did it – matching family pajamas! I wish you could see mine a bit more, but this is what you get from a timed photo, ha. Next year we’ll invest in a family photo shoot, as it’s been too long since we had a professional capture us as a family. We had a lovely, lazy Christmas, which is honestly still happening because we all got sick with colds the next day. But back to the big day – it all started with discovering Santa had enjoyed the scotch + pfeffernüsse we had left for him (see this post for more about that family tradition). The first presents they found were in their stocking – adorable, handmade teddy bears that give back. Nothing sponsored – I’m sharing the link because I love gifts that give back.

 

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santa express

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We might have to call 2016 the “year of the train” for us – we’re on a roll! This was our first experience at the Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster – I think it’s going to be a new holiday tradition. One of their most popular events is the Santa Express Train, which has been happening since 1959! I couldn’t wait to give the kids the experience, and I was pretty excited myself, having never been on a vintage steam train. We had the pleasure of being pulled by the #90 locomotive, circa 1924, and rode in the passenger car #58, circa 1911. After geeking out over all the equipment (I have my Dad to thank for the interest), we boarded the train and anxiously awaited the arrival of Santa.

 

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francophile gift guide

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If you’re reading this blog post, you most likely have many Francophile friends to shop for – this gift guide is for you! My passion for all things French is well known (and was the inspiration for starting this blog, after all) and I stand behind each one of these selections. I either own them or covet them myself (ahem Santa), so you can feel confident about any and all of them! Also, if you’re not already, be sure to follow @thefrancophiles for the best French-inspired moments, places, and people. I may be a bit biased, but I might also be right (wink). Happy shopping mes amis! 

 

1.   explore the city of light through the eyes of bibliophiles with these literary Paris postcards by Obvious State.

2.   nobody does mustard better than Maille, and this “mustards on tap” gift set is perfect for the holidays.

3.   for the glam girl in your life, this maxi palette by French icon Sonia Rykiel for Lancôme should do the trick!

4.   what could be more perfect than a handmade, France-shaped cutting board?! hashtag hostess gift.

5.   inspired by French body care + handcrafted in Seattle, anything from French Girl Organics is a treat.

6.   coloring books are both fun and relaxing – the Paris Street Style is a great choice.

7.   exhale and escape with the Secret Paris coloring book – even better when paired with pencils!

8.   this festive candle from Diptyque is filled with the incredible scent of a lush, pine-laden forest.

9.   pour les enfants or the sweet littles in your life…look no further than this all-natural croissant shaped teether!

10. no holiday cheese board is complete without a Laguiole cheese knives – get the party started!

11.  for the older tots, the Paris pop-out set by Petit Collage is what little Francophiles dreams are made of.

desktop fleurish | joyeuses fêtes

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Mes amis…it’s December, which means I can now officially say “happy holidays” or joyeuses fêtes! This wallpaper marks a year of desktop fleurish designs, and this one just might be my favorite. It’s been such a treat to collaborate with Lindsey Buck of The Hive Studio – I hope you’ve enjoyed all of her designs. In case you don’t know, she has a lovely Etsy shop filled with beautiful art prints, cards, gift wrap and more, and is accepting custom orders for a few more days. Hashtag shop small, forever and always. Welcome the season by refreshing your desktop – download the (free) designs below!

simple desktop | calendar desktop

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