Category Archives: travel

hello fall!

vermont

Vermont-apples7

Vermont-apples

Vermont-apples8

Vermont-apples3

Well, it’s now *officially* fall, and I am celebrating that by remembering our last trip to Vermont. It was filled with crisp air, wood burning fires, breathtaking foliage, and…apple picking! I had never been apple picking before…ever, and was beside myself with excitement. If you are familiar with Anne of Green Gables, then you understand the vision I had in my mind…and yes, I am nearly identical to that character in romantic notions, dramatic personality, and the red hair, of course. As you can see, I teared up…it was exactly as I had imagined it…the mist, the solitude, and sharing it with my best friend (aka hubby)! 

What are your favorite fall memories?

 

 

la madeleine

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Prominently situated in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, L’église de la Madeleine (or simply, la Madeleine) has always fascinated me. So, I just had to do some research…maybe you are curious too? It is a Catholic church, but was originally intended to be a temple celebrating the glory of Napoleon’s army. After the fall of his empire, King Louis XVIII declared that the structure be a church, dedicated to Mary Magdalene. I have never been inside, but have always admired it for it’s architectural beauty.

 

packing for paris

Packing-for-paris

 

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

l

see the updated packing for paris post 

simon pearce…

 

 

Vermont

 

Simonpearce

 

Simon-pearce

Hello September! With the crisp fall air right around the corner, I can't help but reminisce about our fall 2009 trip to Vermont. I apologize for the poor photo quality, as we had not yet purchased our Nikon "grown-up camera", as we call it. I am reminded of how much New England tugs at my heart-strings, watching the unfortunate Irene aftermath…my thoughts are with those who are struggling (still) in Vermont especially. Our day trip from Manchester to Quechee was a memorable one, and ended with the most amazing meal at Simon Pearce. Hopefully you know of the company, but if not, here is an intro. We fell in love with the setting, as the restaurant floats over the river and a waterfall…it was very idyllic. You can watch the artisans blow glass, potters throw, and shop the boutique. It was an amazing day, and that photo of us remains one of our favorites. We hope to return soon!