I'm Susan — devout Francophile, mother of twins, writer, creative director, and aspiring author. I've been sharing my life here since 2010...thanks for reading!
I know this is making the rounds (I usually don't get into that), but I am marveling at the re-purposing of this Diptyque candle, and wondering why I didn't think of it! I just burned through one, and could not bear to get rid of it. So I shall re-purpose it, and this is just perfect. Thank you Pinterest!
I’ve always been a nutcase planner…and it should come as no surprise to those who know me that I’m already starting to plot (for my February trip) what I’ll be taking to France. Part of this need to plan is due to the fact that I will be traveling to Europe for the first time by myself, and taking only a carry-on. I generally do not travel that lightly, so this is a challenge…a fun one, that I am grateful to have! So here is my list thus far, and these are also my recommendations for anyone traveling abroad in the winter months. Here’s to packing light, I hope I can do it! Extra space will go to Ladurée macarons, bien sur. Yeah, maybe I should plan to check luggage after all.
1… black cashmere sweater-classic, warm, cozy, can be layered if needed
2… searching for the perfect fit & flare winter coat (will be most seen item in photos)
3… grey sweater, for layering with jeans or leggings-a great neutral that is not black
4… the must-have scarf…seriously, don’t go anywhere in france without one
5… my new kelly moore camera bag, which I chose specifically for travel
6… leather (lined) gloves…it will be february, and very cold
7… two pairs of dark jeans, can be dressed up or down & worn with boots
8… tall *flat* leather boots-stylish and great for walking (especially on cobble)
9… fuzzy earmuffs…an essential for me in the winter…it will allow for more outdoor time
10… the LBD…I don’t go anywhere without one
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I am bursting with excitement over the opening of the New York Ladurée!! Admittedly I have mixed feelings, as it is an *event* for me whenever I'm in Paris, but this does mean I don't have to carry an extra suitcase for their transport back. I'm only half joking. I had planned on being there to report back every delectable detail to you, but this eye candy with have to suffice. As many of you know, I have a bit of an obsession with "les macarons". Not just any macarons…Ladurée specifically. In case you missed my many rantings on the subject…here they are again for your viewing pleasure.
I love these vintage decoupaged globes by ImagineNations…no two are alike. When I was young I always had a globe in my room, and it really inspired me to travel and explore other cultures. Sometimes I would just spin it and wherever my finger stopped, I would imagine going there. Did you ever do that?
I stumbled upon the work of San Francisco artist Denise Fiedler at Paste SF, who creates collages made from aged printed pages. I think they are so unique, and I adore the many other designs as well, especially the portraits. Above, a few of my favorite iconic chairs…Eames, Thoret, and Louis!
images courtesy of Denise Fiedler