Category Archives: lovely links

the tower and a tease

eiffel-tower-trocadero-steps

 

I’m back mes amis, coucou! My trip to Paris was such a whirlwind, whew – I’m still catching my breath. It was an exhilarating and exhausting eight days, but worth every second. I missed my family fiercely (it’s the longest I’ve ever been away from them), but returned home refreshed and excited! Soon I’ll be sharing posts about my adventures, my apartment in Montmartre, and more. But for now…I have a very special announcement to share with you! While I can’t reveal it fully just yet, I’ll soon be launching a new venture that has been in the works for some time now (and on my brain for even longer). I’m honored and thrilled to be joined by and collaborating with my incredibly talented friends and fellow Francophiles, Kirsten Alana + Lindsey Tramuta. We cannot wait to share our news with you…stay tuned!!

packing for paris

packing-for-paris-in-the-spring

 

It’s that time again…t-minus three days until I leave for Paris, and the suitcase is out! This time, however, I’m going to attempt to only use a carry-on…key word being attempt. I’m a chronic overpacker, so this will be a challenge (follow along on snapchat:hutchsusan if you wish…I’ll be sharing my packing process there, and it could get comical). While April in Paris is one of the most beautiful times of year there (or anywhere), it can also be the most fickle. One moment the sun is shining and the next, you’re ducking for cover in a passages. Layering is always a great idea when traveling, as are comfortable shoes. I tend to avoid trends and stick to the classics – you can’t go wrong. This is my fourth packing for paris guide…I’ve linked the previous ones below, along with all the details for these items. I think it goes without saying that this packing guide applies to many different locales…I hope you find it helpful. Happy travels et bon voyage!

my other packing for paris posts: one | two | three (kids version) 

cashmere sweater | white oxford | striped tee | wool hat | trench coat | denim shirt dress | black midi skirt | skinny jeans | bootcut jeans | leopard purse | sunglasses | scarf | expandable pliage | camera bag | nude flats | white sneakers | booties

french for paris

blossoms-in-paris

 

The blossoms are blooming here in Pennsylvania, despite Mother Nature being very confused (it’s currently 45 degrees). From what I’m seeing on my friends snapchats and images, the blooms are beginning in Paris, and I’m hoping to see them in ten days, eek! I’m crazy busy getting both home + work life in order before I go, but right now I’m making time to review my French. As you may have seen in my French is Beautiful series, I’ve been studying and improving thanks to (my friend + tutor) Carrie Anne James. Even after years of speaking French, I always review and refresh my knowledge before a trip. Speaking the language (even at a basic level) shows respect, makes things easier, and therefore, more enjoyable.

The French for Paris audio program covers all the basics for navigating and enjoying Paris, and while it’s quite comprehensive, it’s not overwhelming. Carrie Anne teaches you to improvise in conversation, not just imitate, as well as offering cultural tips to help you understand why certain things are said (or not). There are also some fun extras, like the “traveling with kids” bonus lesson, which I’m honored to have inspired! Also included in the course is a guide to Carrie’s favorite places in Paris, which I’ve devoured. While all of her program offerings are amazing (see them here), if you have plans to travel to Paris (and France in general), this one’s for you. Tell her I sent you…merci à tous!

image courtesy of Ashley Ludaescher Photography

*my tutoring is c/o French is Beautiful…these words + opinions are my own*

desktop fleurish | printemps

desktop-fleurish-printemps

April has arrived, and with it, allergies spring, or printemps in French. I can’t think of anything more beautiful than April in Paris, honestly…and I’ll be back there in two weeks, squeal! Admittedly, it also gets me excited to go shopping – and here’s a tip: the Printemps department store has the most amazing view up top! Seriously – it’s one of the best vantage points in all of Paris. The lovely desktop/phone/iPad wallpaper you see above was designed and penned by the talented Lindsey Buck of The Hive Studio. Each month we’re highlighting a French word or phrase, and printemps just felt right for April…we hope you agree! Allow me to suggest a glass of Sancerre, paired with this song, as you refresh your desktop.

simple desktop | calendar desktop

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