paris on the cuyahoga

Chic Eating - How to Start

2010-06-27T13:09:00.006-04:00

A yahoo group I've belonged to forever recently had some posts about clean pantries
and more frequent, but less acquisitive, stops at the market. We been thru this before on that group (french chic) and it's understandable as this is one of the cornerstones of a healthy, chic way of relating to food. Lean pantry, eat seasonally,
realistic portions, unprocessed foods - all building blocks of your personal chic culinary lifestyle, one that will satisfy your mouth and your soul. Wow, who knew. Anyway I also love that it is thriftier (yes,despite costlier organics etc) and just a superior way to conduct yourself (earth consciousness, the whole picture).
You've got to clean that refrigerator out. First timers must take every single item out, wipe the fridge clean, and sort and restock, wiping down the condiment bottles as before returning to their shelves. I try to do this a few times a year- seasonally seems right, and once you do it, and you keep a sparse, clean fridge, it's not too time consuming. First timers - for you it is tho, almost certainly. So worth the effort.
As you go make a list of what you need to eat asap and what you need to replace.
You can make some quick menus from these items. Today I had 1 1/2 lemons (squeezed them right into the existing, summer-fridge omnipresent pitcher of lemonade). One cooked chicken breast and 2 hard boiled eggs - made a quick bowl of chicken salad adding some celery and green grapes. Get the picture? "yes, we see".

Don't forget the freezer. And the dry pantry of course.

The pantry basics, well you can find lists everywhere and you will want to make it
'your own' anyway. The flavors of jelly, the particular spices, what sort of mustard you enjoy - this is what not only makes all sorts of delicious sustenance easy for you to prepare daily - it is your way of treating yourself to what you love! Pick what rocks your world! Experiment! What do YOU like? Indulge yourself here. Condiments are the accessories of your pantry and, as we chics know, accessories are essential, fun and can make or break it.

Off to pick some golden raspberries for the yogurt that needs to be eaten up. It was my first attempt in years to make homemade. And it is delicious, thick Greek style stuff. Maybe I'll post about that process...
La

Positively Free!

2010-06-19T08:51:00.003-04:00

Lovely for you and free (or very inexpensive)!
Enjoy!

BREATHE
EXFOLIATE (try Baking soda)
MOISTERIZE
WALK
CYCLE
HYDRATE
POSTURE CHECK
DAYDREAMING/VISUALIZING THE CHIC LIFE YOU DESIRE

XO,
LA

Computer Snack Tip

2010-06-15T20:36:00.004-04:00

In general "no snacking" is an ironclad rule for chic. Just think about it - food is messy and greasy fingertips do not belong in a soignee world. But my world - the real one - requires me to spend hours at the computer keyboard. I have found the only snack that is now allowed at keyboard: Dark Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans. 5 beans = about 45 calories w/ 25 mg of caffeine that is more absorbed than the same amount of caffeine in an espresso, for example,due somewhat to the presence of the chocolate (according to my research). I can make those 5 beans last 45 minutes! I rarely chew the bean, rather slowly savor the choc layer and then sort of suck the bean (sounds so gross put this way, but I make sure to never lay the bean against any teeth that might get stained etc) - as I said I almost never chew and swallow the bean. Simply toss it into the compost. These can be found at many markets and
the terrific Trader Joe's.
This is a nice treat, low calorie and invigorating, hope you enjoy it.
To my friends, chocolate and caffeine, and you,
La

Me, me, me

2010-06-13T09:02:00.002-04:00

Well I apologize for being such a bad blogger. I'm finding that this particular blog is more like an online diary/goalsetting/vetting resource than the traditional blog.
Oh well.
We are ensconced in my favorite month, finally. Warmth. Growth. Kids home from school (2 out of three ain't bad). The potatger is in. Lots of unexpected veggies cropping up due to compost/reseeding. My peonies and first round of Mme.Issac Periere roses were glorious.
My head is on straight regarding work. I've been slaving (yes that is the correct lingo) for the past several years, attempting to make a new career profitable and supplement with part time work, (Jake has too, he's working like a madman). I am seeing the light at the end of that tunnel. Some balance between work and life, and some earning power. Jake and I have been talking/pondering our 8 year goal path - in that time, God willing, all three of our children will be college grads and we'll be total empty nesters. In 4 years we'll be semi-empty, I guess. This is a good timeline/way to look at the future for us.
I've had time to get back into the music scene, working on a couple of projects right now. It's exhilarating to be back working at that passion.

Our plan, in a nutshell: keep the income as low as possible (easy!) - we have bright kids and they will all qualify for college financial aid based on our current/past several years income. Build my primary business. Freelance/under the radar income (pet sitting, music gigs, handyman (Jake)) etc. Optimize our rental property income.

In 8 years our primary residence will also be paid off. We will probably move to a condo downtown that we own (and currently rent out) at that point and sell or rent this house. We loved city living and the condo is a loft style with exposed brick walls, 20 ft ceilings, hardwood floors, rooftop garden - that we lived in as newlyweds. Simply love the space. We could then travel, use the condo as a home base to recharge, take care of our rental properties etc.
sounds good to me.....
xo,
La

BOOK REVIEW COMPARE CONTRAST

2010-05-18T12:31:00.006-04:00

Read 2 books lately. Same theme, American girl moves to Paris. There the similarity ends. I really loved one and only liked some of the humor and french references in the other. Thought it'd be a good exercise to dissect a bit the reasons why.
Book One:
LUNCH IN PARIS A Love Story with Recipes, Elizabeth Bard

RIGHT OFF in the subtitle "W/ RECIPES!!"
Straight on biographical a la Peter Mayle.
Heroine a New York Jewess. Much like some of my best friends, but not me.
A writer.
Visits Paris (from London, where she's working) to have lunch with a man met at an educational conference. Begin serious dating after that first lunch/sleepover. They
navigate the usual cultural divides as they date, she moves and they marry. Lots of back and forth, observation, about/between the French and the American cultural differences as she has occasion to observe her husband and in-laws not only in Paris and their natural habitat - a smaller village - but also in the States.

She learns to love the French approach to food.

Book Two:
PARIS HANGOVER, Kirsten Lobe
Well, hangovers are not traditionally viewed in a good way to start.
Written in a pseudo fictional style, the heroine as well as the author is a pretty, blonde with a fashion background, but, the author protests in the notes,"it's fiction!". Her fiction.
Heroine a NY transplant, midwest(?), very type A with major fashionista job and clothes.
Drops everything (in an unbelieveably quick, easy way) and moves to Paris, alone.
Navigates in a series of oddly timed coincidences to get a great apartment, her paintings in a gallery, etc. And her sex drive is on the border wild.

In book One the writing is far superior and the style of the first heroine rings better with me. Of course the food component rocks. Love books with recipes - will certainly share some in my book:) Tried the cod/leeks/mayo recipe - very good.

more NY Times

2010-05-10T08:23:00.002-04:00

I know this is dreadfully lazy and can't be considered real blogging at all, but
the Times has 2 decent articles, one on packing:
http://tinyurl.com/2va67l3
and one about the passing of a stylish icon, Lena Horne:
http://tinyurl.com/2bmpluy

wave!
La

Frugal French

2010-04-21T08:36:00.002-04:00

Below is, hopefully, a link to a NYT's article I read today. It speaks to me of a difference between my American culture and that of the French, one that I write about here sometimes, thrift. When I attempt to communicate that feeling of satisfaction inherent in loving a beautiful, old object that has a history, been handed down perhaps, and IS the real thing rather than a stand in, I feel that the fact that it was also the frugal choice sometimes feels cheap.
http://tinyurl.com/y7hhhbp

enjoy,
La

Comments not showing

2010-04-09T12:46:00.001-04:00

Hi,
Does anyone know why the comments lister at the bottom of each post isn't registering?
On my last post I noticed that Kristi left a comment, but it says 0 comments.
I left a reply and still: 0 comments.
I have posted a question on the help forum, but it looks like those don't often
get replied to.
thanks!

Dandy salad

2010-04-08T08:14:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I harvested the small dandelions growing in our yard. I didn't realize until I was working at it that the nice rain we had overnight was making it very easy to pry my screwdriver-like tool into the base of the plant and pull it out. I shook off the dirt and collected about a quart sized baggie of plants. Inside I cut the roots off and put the greens and any small unopened buds into the salad spinner with a teaspoon of vinegar (standard veggie washing procedure here) and swished thru,
picking out any grass etc. After rinsing and spinning I put the greens into the fridge to crisp up a bit. For dinner I had a bed of lightly dressed greens with a salmon filet on top. Very good! Pricey mesclun mix contains dandelion greens and so I had a 'gourmet' meal for a frugal cost. Bonus: the American side of me liked the fast that I "weeded" the yard while the Eurochic side enjoyed the foraging/frugal/healthy benefits!

Springtime

2010-03-22T13:37:00.003-04:00

Although Spring weather comes slowly to NE Ohio the date has arrived and I'm busy trying to do all the little things that come with the change of season. Changing over the closet is one of them. I'm always surprised by what I "find".
This year I am determined to harvest dandelion leaves from my yard and the local woods
(both places that don't use pesticides) and have dandelion salad. It is supposed to be a marvelous tonic, nature's offering to cleanse your insides. Asparagus and leeks are the next 2 greens that I plan to eat in force while in season.
I've had the bike out - it's running fine - and would like to decorate it a la Copenhagan Cycle Chic, with some plastic flowers.
And flowers - can't wait to pick some from my yard. I also can't wait to harvest the garlic I sowed last fall, cut back the clematis and prune the concord grape vines.
a la printemps!
La

Lacura sale

2010-03-13T22:33:00.002-05:00

If you haven't tried the Lacura line at Aldi - it's on sale starting March 17th.
Google Aldi and read the reviews on the store website. It's great stuff!

I've been busy making a living, raising the 3 teens, studying for an upgrade/test
to my appraiser's license, singing a few times here and there with some bands I know and
just shot a TV commercial - played a mammography patient (fully robed!)....oh the glamour. It's been a while since I've gotten any acting/modeling gigs and the money is very welcome.
Anyway, a dear man I know has just found out that a song he cowrote is being released as Carlos Santana's latest single as Carlos is rereleasing Supernatural. The song is Angel Love. Alan's wife passed away last year and this is sort of bittersweet for him - almost as if she is watching over him. Carlos' daughter's nickname is Angel.

I hope all this activity means Spring is going to be a good season for all of us. It's been really hard the past couple of years. My husband is working like a dog and the economy has really been evil to his business.

Again, so busy! and there doesn't seem to be many followers here...so forgive the sporadic nature of my posting if you are out there.

Here's to warm weather and sunshine.
La

What do you wear?

2010-03-01T09:12:00.003-05:00

What do you wear to bed? My current crop of pjs are worn and stretched out and need replacing. I've never been a nightgown gal - they ride up! I've done au natural, but
when I had young kids this wasn't a good option - too many calls for Mommy in the night or small visitors,unexpected, to my bed. I kept a robe handy, but decided I'd better find, and wear, pjs of some sort. Now that they are teenagers I suppose I could go that route again, but then again they are teenagers, and heaven forbid they catch wind of it:) I've been wearing a Carole Little set, found inexpensively a few years ago at Marshalls, pull on pants and a v neck top, that have now seen better days. I was never a fan of the top anyway as the v had a tendancy to move and expose me! So now I'm wondering what to wear to bed? What do you wear? Thanks in advance for sharing.
La

Aldi's Lacura Face Creams

2010-02-23T22:51:00.003-05:00

I've been using 2 creams from the Lacura line: Q10 Restorative, which comes in the pink packaging as shown and Hydra Complete, which comes in a blue jar. The Q10 is for mature skin and is intended to increase the skin's firmness and diminish fine lines. It has a light rose scent and is a fairly thick formula. Along with coenzyme Q10, this formula contains E, F and B5. I use it as a night cream. A small amount, gently massaged, absorbs quickly. I'm very happy with the texture, scent, price (USD $5 for 1.7oz)and, most importantly, the results. I think my skin looks firmer and smoother.
The Hydra Complete (comes in blue packaging) is now my daily morning moisturizer. Containing sea minerals and vitamin B5, this cream is much lighter than the Q10 and absorbs quickly. It's intended to moisturize and freshen the skin. It also appears to have some illuminating ingredients as it makes my skin brighter and glowing. I love this formula and find it compares favorably to the pricer Neutrogena Visibly Even daily moisturizer I've also been using.
I give both creams very high marks and have read that, when tested, they compared favorably with the much pricer Lancome brand.

Six Weeks of Lent

2010-02-15T10:34:00.002-05:00

Kristi at La Bella Figura has posted about 'not a cent in Lent' - which I consider a clever way to confront this season. I am not a very strict Catholic, but I welcome the idea of backing off things a bit: less food, less spending, less alcohol.... and doing some things more frequently: complimenting my family, being more patient with them, spending more quality time with them. So I am hereby telling myself in print that I CAN DO IT. I have to remember that many of my ideals in terms of how I want to live my life are related directly to less is more anyway - and not to look at this as deprivation but as cleansing and reorienting.
One of my ideas is to reenergize with a new breakfast routine. This will start every
day off in the right direction. A member of the french chic group eats this: Greek yogurt(I like Trader Joe's) with some blueberries, a hard boiled egg w/salsa (love that!) a few almonds and a couple of prunes. I think that sounds like a delicious, well balanced meal that would stick with you at least till lunch.
So on Wednesday here we go......
La

LACURA LIPS

2010-02-14T11:08:00.005-05:00

Aldi's lip line includes lipstick, but I don't normally emphasize my lips with a lot
of color so I won't be reviewing their Lacura lipstick. I like a soft shimmer, somewhat pearly, but not super pigmented for my lips. I love Aldi's Gentle Lip Care - tubes that are similar to a lipstick - that come in 3 varieties:
Pink - which is the one I use and gives me just the hint of pink shimmer I like. Blue - which is unscented and uncolored and Yellow - which has a honey scent. These lip balms are a lovely texture (not chapsticky tacky), mineral oil and preservative free. They contain Vitamin E and B5, jojoba oil and (says the packaging) protect against harmful UV rays.
I bought several 3 packs of the Pink tubes when I discovered them in early December and passed them out to a few friends: RAVE REVIEWS! It's a wonderful feeling to find
great skin products that seem/feel/are luxurious for literally pennies. The 3 pack was $1.50 - that's right fifty cents a tube! (It's whats on my lips in my photo if you can see it - it's so subtle and the photo is not the best).
bisous,
La

AN ALDI PRIMER

2010-01-28T20:36:00.006-05:00

To begin my little series on Aldi here is some background on the store. Primarily a grocery store, Aldi is a European company based in Germany. Aldi has been operating in Europe for some time, but is fairly new to the U.S. The same company owns Trader Joe's, and many in the U.S. are familiar with their wonderful (and thoughtful - no high fructose corn syrup!) assortment of foodstuffs. Aldi (like Trader Joe's) concentrates on food, and also sells cleaning products (laundry and dish detergent), paper products (plates, toilet tissue etc.) and personal items (shampoo, soap, body lotion, feminine hygiene etc.)but Aldi also has weekly specials that have run from slow cookers to men's work boots to 400 thread count sheets (at $35!!)in the 3 years I have been shopping there.
I am an informed consumer,a foodie, a label reader who eats well and I love this store. The prices are very low and this is not because of inferior product but the structure of the entire process. For example, at Aldi there is only one brand of saltine cracker. This is the Aldi brand and the crackers are of the highest quality (obviously outsourced from a major producer as Aldi is not a food manufacturer). Offering only the Aldi house brand means lower prices. I have done my grocery shopping almost exclusively at Aldi for years, have never been disappointed in the food and love the savings! Before Aldi I shopped at 2 markets that are considered very nice - and I don't miss them at all.
Be aware that you need a quarter to unlock a shopping cart, but you will be refunded when you return the cart to the corral. At Aldi you bag your own groceries($avings!) but here's my tip on that: grab a few banana boxes while shopping (they are sturdy and have handles built in) and keep them in the trunk of your vehicle. After checkout - which is super fast, they are timed on this - take your cart to your car and unload (no bags!) sorting as you go. When you get home it's sort of like an old movie: groceries delivered in a box AND the stuff is sorted for putting away. Go on try the fresh mozzarella, dark chocolate bars or the chibatta bread and tell me this is 'generic, inferior' food. I dare you.
Do not be afraid of Aldi.
Disclaimer: I am not employed by or paid by or anything by Aldi. I am just a foodie on a budget who is happy that they are in my heighborhood.
And now they have begun shelving their Lacura line of cosmetics - which I will review in this series.

Happy New Year

2010-01-27T08:09:00.002-05:00

It's been ages! I didn't publish one whiny post. You're welcome:) And that was it for 2 months?

I know I said I'd take a blog break. Then I posted and said well maybe I'll post sometimes, it clears my head. And then...,.nothing. It's a curse being born on the cusp of Gemini/Moon Child.....I really do have 3 (or more) personalities/ways to think about things.

Anyway -

Writing, regularly, was one of the primary reasons I started blogging - something I do for me. I started and found a bit of a rhythm over time. Then it became a chain. I'd like to make it
meditative, responsive and regular - just like my workouts/playing music/and other things I
should be doing for me.

With work, 3 teenagers and all the rest of 'my' life draining my essence I sincerely need to claim more of my own turf.

I have posted a picture on my blog profile. My upcoming series will be a review of Aldi's cosmetic
line Lacura and I want to be able to show some photos to illustrate my reviews, so I'm experimenting with self portraiture a la La Bella Figura and Euro Chic. I don't think I'll really be able to show makeup/skin in enough detail by photographing myself in my bathroom, but this is one of the test shots.

Chic Sighting

2009-11-17T14:41:00.001-05:00

I had the pleasure of seeing a very chic woman in her home this morning. She was slender, in slippers and yoga pants with a white cami/bra under, no makeup, rather large-ish dangly earrings, hair pulled back, green pashmina the same color as her eyes around her neck. Her home was equally stark, luxe and elegant: highly polished dark wood floors, immaculate white molding, colors of green and nature. I loved her laquered floors with lust!
She appeared to be a stay at home mom of 4 young ones(!) and was very gracious in conversation.
Nice to see a role model in everyday life, makes the day brighter.
cheers,
La

La Danse: The Paris Opera Ballet (2009)

2009-11-08T22:27:00.001-05:00

This movie combines ballet and Paris. How can it not tempt me?
From the NY Times:

http://movies.nytimes.com/2009/11/04/movies/04danse.html?ref=movies

Regime Fric Overdrive

2009-11-01T09:17:00.004-05:00

The next few months (weeks, days!) are going to be interesting. In order to shore
up ourselves financially both Monsieur and I have taken on part time jobs. We've been thinking of doing so and suddenly a job each came about that seem to fit the bill (so to speak!). Within a week we've taken on 40 or so extra hours of work outside of our normal work/household life which is daunting and will be challenging no doubt. But the energy I feel when I think of how we're doing, instead of stewing, is intense and inspiring. Rudimentary calculations seem to point to 6 months.....we're going to give it that long before we even think about quitting and we should have knocked off most of our smaller debts (some medical, dental) by then and acquired some savings. We can then reassess our situation and move accordingly. Move is an interesting word choice as I've actually been proselytizing a possible move to a smaller home with a smaller mortgage. I'd also be happy downsizing to one vehicle - if we lived where that would be appropriate for us with jobs that didn't require solo transport such as we both have now.
Organization is key, now more than ever. I've seen in one week how the added
work has had me overeating. So before it gets out of hand I'm mentally reviewing my french chic attitude bank and start today to make sure I employ all the trucs so that I can reach my goals (and the end of the holiday season) in jeans that fit! Of course the mindset/organization/dedication that the french chic lifestyle requires
will not only assist me in areas concerning la cuisine, but throughout the home/life continuum. Weekends (in my case F/S/Sun) are, henceforth, primarily for getting laundry, grocery shopping and week ahead planning/stray appraisals done. I will chop celery and carrots in a quantity for the fridge - great snacks, starter course and starts to soup/stir fry etc. I'll munch those, with fruit or a few olives, instead of cookies/chips/candy etc (horrible time of year in an American household with Halloween candy ubiquitous). Make a big pot of rice, a pot of soup or stew....clean some lettuce. I ordinarily bake some bread, but that's one thing I'll give up for now as we've got options for good bread. I'm considering adjusting my mealtimes to 10 - 4 - 10 to accomodate my schedule, keeping the rest of the family on 6 -12-6 because of school etc. Usually I hang lots of my laundry - and put it straight into the closet on the same hanger - but weather changes and time constraints may cause more frequent dryer use than I like. We have an excellent aluminum rack from Aldi and a short line in the basement, but nothing beats the backyard when possible. My teenagers, as they do, have lots of things going on in their lives, including some jobs of their own, but they are aware of increased responsibility looming! They have their chores and are old enough to do many things - including cooking, as they all have skills/experience.
I'm going to take my weekly allowance out on Friday. Keeping it in an envelope and placing receipts inside as I go thru the week, marking the amounts spent on the outside. Very good method for me. We'll gas up the vehicles on Mon/Tues when it's lowest price usually.
I am realistic enough to know that this regime will require some cash outlay - most notably for a cleaning lady. I'd been researching this but put it on the back shelf until today. Only one day a month, she won't do the kids bedrooms - that's their responsibility - and it'll be worth every penny.
Of course you may recall I am starting my own business and, bien sur, I've got some work coming in. This is good, but requires my attention!!
Another big item is that we are starting to liquidate/assess our rental properties. The condo has an interested buyer. As we move closer to college/retirement we are
not poised exactly in the catbird seat so the regime is tres important for yet another reason. We can make some good decisions, not panicked ones, concerning the properties.
As you can see, I will still post. It clears my head! If you have any good ideas for
me, bring 'em on!
Optimistically, La

I love Peter Mayle

2009-10-25T16:09:00.002-04:00

http://tinyurl.com/yf7oj2w
fun article from the ny times, ends with a yummy looking recipe for pumpkin risotto. looks like
you could use your day after halloween jack o'lantren for this recipe too!

Inspire: Stylish Videos

2009-09-22T13:14:00.002-04:00

Ines de la Fressange
http://www.rogervivier.com/en/#/ines

Love the literary french woman -
http://www.france5.fr/la-grande-librairie/index.php?page=article&numsite=1403&id_rubrique=1406&id_article=12638

both so very inspirational!

La Rentree

2009-09-17T08:42:00.009-04:00

For me the Fall season is all about la rentree, the reentry into worklife. Fittingly I have just formed an LLC with an appraiser I respect and enjoy spending time with.

Laying the foundation for a business model, we have followed the conventional rules and have a business plan. Real estate appraisal is anything but glamourous so I am keeping my mind focused on making this business chic enough to speak to me while making a nice living from it.

First was partnering with B., for the above mentioned qualities plus the motivational factor of mirroring a hard working professional. We can support one another as appraisers and spend quality time doing so as friends as well. The fact that we met as appraisers (not as friends first) seems important.

Our client packet was fun to assemble, including cover letter, resumes and sample appraisals along with new business cards. I wrote/designed the cover letter and business card, both are simple and classic. Following my 'hit list' of local prospects I hand delivered one of our packets with a simple bouquet and 2 bunches of concord grapes (both just picked from my potager) to an aquaintance we're hoping to do business with.

I'm looking forward to the simple touches we can add to our sales presentation and client relationships to elevate the interactions.

I see working from home as a huge bonus to the daily chic factor as I have control over lighting, music, meals, taking breaks to stretch and do a quick household task, sometimes watching an inspirational video in another window on my computer screen.

No snacking is a worthy habit when you are 15 feet from the kitchen and developing a dinner plan as you work thru the day. Makes the yummy petit and grand dejeuner imperative!

The downside is the temptaion to loll about in pjs...which happens I suppose. My 'secret' weapon is dressing the part and lately when I've worn my uniform of pencil skirt, slim tank/athletic top, cute jacket with either pointy toed kitten heel pumps or Clarks slip on sandals I've been and felt "good to go" all day long in all my daily situations. I may have to break out the boots/keds when appraising some properties .....but those can go in a box in the car that holds my appraisal gear.

Second 'secret' weapon is music. I am listening to Big Star and Elvis Costello - my own soundtrack in other words - or french radio streaming live on the net.

Both clothing and music have been very effective in motivating me this rentree and I think it's a good thing.

Le regime fric:

Been serious about this for at least a year now. Very limited/controlled spending, very limited income.

Applying for part time work. Would be hard, but will make the winter go faster and smoother. Will necessitate participation in the housework from children.

Will focus me on income production for right now. Another year or two of this, plus Jake's prep for his career change and in over a year or so...we should be doing well. In the spring I think we should think about selling this house and perhaps renting or downsizing in some way, especially if we haven't sold the condo. Homes are selling in RR.

I hope to be able to keep up with occasional posts - they help me to focus on what is really important/necessary to my life - but realistically I will be busier than ever, so this blog will be last on the "to do" list, as it has been lately. I also love reading the blogs of others - inspirational and comforting at the same time as so many of us deal with the recession and living a full, chic life: so if you have the time keep on posting!

Potager Prizes redux

2009-08-10T22:17:00.005-04:00

Here is an old draft I forgot to post in August.

My garden bounty of zucchini and tomatoes has brought me much closer to these 2 vegetables. We've eaten much of the zucchini, picked very small, raw with hummus or sauteed in omelets.

Now we've graduated to large, diagonally sliced discs which I've dredged in salted and peppered flour and fried in canola or roasted with olive oil and coarse sea salt, maybe some onions in there too, or thinly sliced potato. All you need is a piece of good bread, maybe some cheese, a glass of wine and what a delicious meal. I've consumed the tomatoes raw in salsa tossed with roasted peppers and garlic and onion. Or roasted in oil and salt and slipped from their skins, what a joy. Of course chopped and mixed with creamy mozzarella, evoo and Italian spices. It's hard to even graduate to a pizza or a pasta recipe when you can create such heaven so easily, but of course we have.
Roasting is unbelievable in the way it concentrates flavors and sugars in the vegetables. I've roasted lots of these freshly picked jewels and, resting in the freezer, they wait their turn.

REVIEW LINK JULIE AND JULIA

2009-08-08T07:19:00.004-04:00

Trying to post a link to the NYTimes for the movie. I think it's a well written piece which nails the film and says more than I ever could about a movie.
http://tinyurl.com/nhkrj3
hope it works. If not, it'll probably cut and paste....

I'd love to hear what everyone else thought of the movie.

HOME TOUR - Part One: The Upper Hall

2009-08-05T21:56:00.003-04:00

I've started a cleaning tour of my home. One room at a time, can't move on until everything is clean, edited, fixed or otherwise done in that particular room. As I go along I want to document all of the 'found', inherited, gifted and thrifted items that make up our decor. This first post in a series features the upper hall. The hall is deorated with a log cabin pattern quilt made for me by my Grandmother. The pieces that she used came primarily from clothes she had sewn for me and other family members. The drums are my Grandfather's and were cleaned up and hung by my husband, who also happens to be a drummer. We also have a bass drum end table, you'll see it later in the series. The chandelier, I believe, is a trash day treasure rescued before the garbage truck could snatch it up.

Potager Prizes

2009-08-05T15:35:00.002-04:00

My petite jardin has been producing prolifically. First, the golden raspberries and now this selection of tomatoes, most of these fell from the vines and are ripening. Have been eating zucchini, green beans and cukes, picked daily. Some green peppers, picked relatively small, we just couldn't wait. The other day: homemade pizza dough topped with those peppers and chopped cherry tomatoes - freshest pizza ever.
bon appetit!

Julie and Julia

2009-08-05T12:57:00.001-04:00

I was invited to a screening last night of the new movie Julie and Julia. It was perfect. Meryl Streep invited us to see Julia as a delightfully funny, curious and earthy woman - just a terrific translation of what I felt when I read Julia's memoir My Life In France. This vision of Julia Child is almost transforming: her lust for life and her kindness, her interest in all things, her passion for food, her beautiful marriage.....and this 'getting to know Julia' is just one of the great aspects of this film.

The images of Paris are charming - bien sur - and of course the food looks scrumptious.

I read both My Life in France and Julie and Julia: 365 Days, 524 Recipes, so I considered myself an 'expert' on the film even as we found our seats. My dear friend L. was unfamiliar with the whole project(s) - just a passing knowledge of Julia Child. We both adored the movie and ran out for martinis and artichokes apres (you'll know why after you see this highly recommended film).
Not just a story about food/cooking - but about life and living it with joie de vivre to the fullest.
xo,
La

Vide Grenier et le Marche aux Puces

2009-07-02T08:17:00.003-04:00

Here's a link (I hope, I don't have much success posting these)http://tinyurl.com/l3fh5h to a fun article from,bien sur, the NY Times concerning one of my favorite ways to while away a day: hitting the thrifts and fleas etc. I believe bargain hunting for 'treasures' resonates with me deeply because of my affinity for history and storytelling - it's all interwoven.
I should do a post, with pictures, of the furnishings in my home that we picked from
the treelawns on trash day or found in a junk shop in Toronto, and refinished or painted or whatever....really an idea for a book! Ahh I've so many.
hope you enjoy,
xo La

L'ete arrive!

2009-06-29T18:54:00.003-04:00

I feel the need to check in with my 'diary' to clarify and sort of quantify, perhaps
to reinforce a bit as well - my purpose in blogging: to add daily to my life by being more aware, more genuine, real, euro inspired in some ways. Blogging is time consuming!
I spend my days trying to 'get ahead' which right there sounds negative. The process is the real thing. Remember that Laura.
Alors, I am loving my potager so much. We have harvested exactly 27 haricot verts. The one sprouted onion I planted has rendered lots of greens for stir fry and roatsted red potatos with oregano and thyme. The tomatos are covered with blossoms and shiny, green balls - soon to be sugar sweet cherrys, and romas and early girls...and the zuchini! well, get your recipes ready. I just layed out some strips of rags lightly soaked in ammonia. Supposed to keep the critters away and a ground hog, I believe, was munching on a hungarian pepper plant. The watermelon vine is a runaway:)
A good day ends with lots of compost in the (tightly covered) pot by the kitchen sink. Starting with coffee grinds, eggshells and fruit ends and accumulating all
day long it's magical ingredients, the pot is emptyed after the evening meal into the compost pile behind the garage. This simple endeavor has been so satisfying over the years - providing wonderful soil for garden and potted plants AND providing a
place to recycle uneaten food.
Been cycling a lot. Today to the library to work, uninterrupted for 2 hours on the computer. Love it.
Soon the long awaited oil cleansing method experiment will start, I promise. I am working thru untold meager amounts of accumulated Vit E oil and Ponds Cold Cream etc
I do have a nice tan going. I am not an extremeist either way per the sun. But I need me some, especially on my legs.
La mode is doing pretty nicely this summer so far. Tomorrow my easy linen capris are
ready from the tailor. I'll drop my denim pencil skirt off. I'm going to repair my
Land's End red leather sandals with my wonderfully heavy weight sewing machine (I hope) - it's just a seam, but threatening their life. I can always hit the cobbler if I can't do it. Oh - had my eye exam and had my lenses put in some 'cheaters' that I had and loved. They are smashing - a light weight green metal conconction that always garners a 'love your glasses' - did the same with my Jackie O sunglasses, except specialized as bifocals - again terrific results.
bisous - I had a splendid birthday week, I'm a summer baby born on the longest day of the year and was wined and dined into not so sleek, but heavenly shape.
La

The Secret: How to Live Beyond Your Means

2009-06-16T22:14:00.004-04:00

A book espoused long ago by some Chics was written by Margery Wilson. How to Live Beyond Your Means is her friendly, but stern, manifesto to 'having it all'. I have a copy, the copyright is 1945, the wording is touchingly old school. I thought maybe my daughters would read some of it (what was I thinking?) and when it sat untouched on the dining table, I reached for it. I had a bit of a shock as I realized that this was almost verbatim The Secret - circa 2006 or so via
Rhonda Byrnes et all. The first time around with Wilson's book I had not yet read Byrne's. Seems the Law of Attraction has been around, indeed. I am intrigued by the promise of the secret, and convinced that to smile and expect goodness is just the best way to live anyway. Is there any French connection to this? I don't know, but is seems to me that the Gallic shrug and attitude could be construed as more on the side of pessimism. Any luck employing The Secrect? Do share!

So very European.....

2009-06-11T09:14:00.002-04:00

It seems to me a very Euro thing to do: make your own liqueur. And frugal to boot!
Here is a link to an interesting article with some recipes:
http://tinyurl.com/lkp6ag.
Marsi, I know you have made limoncello. Any tips?

Fleur Cowles has left the building......

2009-06-08T08:15:00.006-04:00

Don't know if you are familiar with Fleur but she was a one of a kind lady and
I've always been rather fascinated with women who bucked the trend(s) of their times/lives. She passed away and here is a link to the NY Times article about her interesting life: http://tinyurl.com/lcn5p6

Your Money or your Life

2009-06-07T09:09:00.003-04:00

Stephanie at Bonjour Madame has a recent post on 'your money or your life' which is
resonating with me. She uses the example of the movie A Good Year. Of course if any of us were in the situation where we could choose to inherit a vineyard I don't think there'd be much question!
I don't really care for the phrase 'in this economy' but there it is. 'In this economy' if you are struggling with work that you don't enjoy or doesn't reward you amply in some way, it fells peevish to complain: what about all those without any work at all? Despite 'the economy' - or any other factors - I believe it is
important to be rewarded properly for your work and to do something that you at least enjoy (if not love).
I've read/heard that many of the French (and perhaps other Europeans) with great social benefits and vacations mandated and a built in cultural more that everyone should enjoy life (or at least have the means via good food, wine, family/vacation time etc) don't care as much about loving their job. They look at work as a means to live. It feels as tho, maybe because we don't have the same political/social set up, Americans don't have that luxury.
Personally I am in that conundrum right now as well, Madame. I have spent the past 3 years learning a (new) profession. Now that I am working (for a management company) the work seems endless. I don't even want to calculate my hourly wage. With 3 teenagers to support I obviously have to maintain an income. The decision I have made is to team up with a wonderful friend who is also an appraiser. We are meeting this week to start the ball rolling on opening our own company. As women we both value our family time as much as our work and don't see this as a problem - both should get their proper due. I'd been avoiding working for myself because of the added work: finding clients, billing, taxes etc. I've changed my view - we are going to create an income stream OUR WAY - with balance, attention to the important details, great service and time left over for living.
I'd love to hear how others are coping with this.

McDonalds Chic?

2009-05-30T15:06:00.004-04:00

I am not much for fast food. Several years ago we watched Super Size Me together as a family and that was pretty much that. As a real estate appraiser I am on the road quite a bit and I stop at McDonalds occasionally to use the restroom and/or get a regular large coffee. About a year ago the Wall Street Journal (I believe) had a story that had professional coffee taste testers drink all the big coffee chains (such as Starbucks) versus fast food coffees. McD's came out number one. So I was validated on that one. Anyway, I NEVER get any food. Until yesterday. I was taking an
8 hour class for a license upgrade and on lunch break hit the McD's for a much needed caffeine fix. I noticed the fruit and walnut salad (at $2.15) and decided to
order one. I had packed a sandwich, but the tedium of the morning portion of the class somehow made me want to reward myself and so for 2 bucks I went for it. I took my impromptu lunch to a sunny, somewhat secluded corner of the school parking lot and took inventory. It was really not bad! Several slices of apple and some grapes, a small scoop of vanilla yogurt and a portion of candied walnuts. The yogurt was sweeter than I like, but overall I'd get it again if I was stuck in a situation and wanted a quick, healthyish meal. It's packed really well 'to go' - a shrink wrap cover over the container and it's packaged with a knife and fork which promotes using them and, as we know, is de rigeur for eating a la francaise. So maybe it is chic? The nutrition facts on line say it's a bit high in sugar, but also in vitamin C and low in sodium and cholestrol.
Bonus!! My recipe for sugared pecans.

SUGARED PECANS

1 pound of pecan halves, toss them in:

1 egg white, beaten just till frothy (and with a tablespoon of cold water added).

Scoop out pecans (use a slotted spoon) and toss in a bowl of combined:

1/2 C Sugar
1/2 tea.Cinnamon
1/4 tea Salt.

Place on greased cookie sheet and bake for one hour at 225 degrees, stirring with a wooden spoon to break up and separate them every 15 minutes.

These are heaven. Lovely as a nibble with aperitiv, as a dessert or snack with yogurt. As a salad topping. Nicely packaged as a favor or gift at the holiday. And you can experiment with the nut used and the spices. Try and make a savory version using your favorite spice.
xo,
La

Informed Produce Shopping

2009-05-18T09:16:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday!
Here is some information that I found to be interesting. It concerns genetically modified, organic and conventionally grown produce and how to tell the difference
between them, easily.
Hopefully we will all be buying from the farms this time of year (or growing our own, my garden is doing very well so far), but if not, I hope you find this tip
helpful.

PLU (Price Look Up) codes are four or five number codes that bring up the price of each item. Within these codes is information about the food itself.

If the code number (you can see it on the label or price tag) is four numbers, the product was grown conventionally.

If the code is made up of five numbers, the product is either organic or genetically modified. An organic product code starts with the number 9, while a genetically modified product code starts with the number 8. Never buy a product (unless it's at a farmer's market or direct farm to consumer) without a PLU code so you know what you are buying.

La

Guest Blogging

2009-05-15T22:09:00.002-04:00

I have the fun news that I will be guest blogging on a blog that I really enjoy:
www.my-french-corner.blogspot.com. Amigh has practical insight that she shares and much of it about things that really interest me. I am honored to be her guest blogger. If you go to www.copenhagencyclechic.com now, you will be an 'insider'
when you click on My French Corner on Sunday to see my post.
This leads me to say that if anyone has an interest, topic or question I'd love
to hear about it. Post a comment!
Thanks,
La

Standing Tall

2009-05-12T13:52:00.002-04:00

The thriftiest and best French chic rule: great posture. Unlike a terrific haircut(which is another rule of french chic and which can often be pricy) posture is free.
To have look of a dancer is the height of elegance. When wondering how to bring chic into your day, examine your stance and correct your posture and movement if necessary. Voila!

My deck and patio are coming alive

2009-05-03T16:06:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite places on earth. I have roses that I've grown from infancy and brass doors that I've lugged from Toronto and privacy. It is a sanctuary of sorts, a garden, a meal setting, a party haven. The peonies popped up 8" almost overnight.
My daffodils and tulips (from the front of the house) are done. They were pretty.

Yesterday I just had to get my red geraniums. Visually they scream "Paris". Red geraniums, like red polish on my toes, are a no brainer for my style. They'll go in some pots for the deck and in the front garden to round out the
veggie plants I'll be putting in. Did you know it is very easy to 'save' geraniums
over the winter in an attached garage or cool basement area?
My flower and veg gardens are going to be integrated this year to take advantage
of our best sun for the veggies, which can make do in the back but really thrive in the S/West exposure in the front.
Perhaps I'll post more pics as the season progresses.

The Best Margarita or wardrobe shopping at home rewards!

2009-05-03T15:54:00.000-04:00

The sun has been revitalizing. My closet is purged and I have come up with some
good findings, one of which is I really needed sandals (and clogs, but those can
wait for fall) to update/upstyle everything I already own. I may still have the
cropped pants from Marcel tailored. Found great gladiator sandals at Target,
they were inexpensive at just about $21. including tax.
Wore them last night for
margaritas on the deck. Very wondeful.
Shopping your closet may leave money available for good tequilla upon occasion.

The best Margarita
Juice of one large orange
Juice of 2 limes
1 tea. powdered sugar
Shake together in a small jar.
Pour a shot of tequilla into lots of ice and add the lovely juice.
No salt, no blender. No headache.

SPRING WARDROBE

2009-04-30T14:09:00.001-04:00

I have been trying to get thru my closets/drawers etc. Le printemps en Cleveland
is a wild affair. Wind, rain, sleet and possibly snow followed rapidement by sun and 80 odd degrees. It is not condusive to the seasonal switchover.
I am a layering non seasonal devotee of the silhouette. Which means I have attempted
to amass clothing that can be worn year round, even in a place with seasons. It does not absolve me of a seasonal look see, weeding out and setting up.

I prefer sleeveless or 3/4 length sleeve. Tunic length over a fitted leotard style top. Ankle length pant or knee length denim pencil skirt. Jeans, except white ones, go away till fall. A wonderful Lilly shift. Long scarf. Flat/mid sandal. Earrings, perhaps a necklace.
Short/mid natural looking nails (note that is looking, it requires time!), tousled mid length hair (layered to my chin). My silhouette is long and lean, never waist conscious!

In the winter it's dark boot cut jeans and boots and black/layers on top. Less color than my summer palate.

Now it is time to plow thru and choose only the best of the best from my closets!

This is frugal and wonderfully smart right now. I have ample reason to look for a few items and I have been dreadfully strict about any additions to my wardrobe, but am going to make it thru this spring and summer on what I have. At the most a pair of sandals if I can find the best. I saw Seiberling (?) sandals at Nordstrom and they look like what I want, but I looked at them intensely last spring and did not go for them, so they just aren't perfect and has that changed?
I don't want to add things just to add them. I want to distill my essence into about 20 great things that I can wear over and over, so retail therapy is wrong. I need a couturier. The chic and ease of a french inspired minimal/maximal wardrobe. So for now I will be as discerning with the offerings of my boudoir as I would could I choose from only the best! It is about quality afterall.
I am looking for classic summer pairings: white on white, nautical etc. And the best
outer layers - big shirts - for the transition and evenings/air conditioning. I have a great summer scarf for that job too. I may have to take a pair of ankle pants to the tailor, but they are worth it I think....

Good luck going thru your stuff too!

Taking Your Home With You - NYTIMES

2009-04-30T01:21:00.000-04:00

I love the idea of this:
http://frugaltraveler.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/29/taking-your-home-with-you/?hpw
I really like the idea of having my own bed while traveling.
xo,
La

It May Be Cheap - From the NY Times

2009-04-29T08:55:00.000-04:00

Just quickly perused this article from the New York Times about inexpensive
butchery.

http://tinyurl.com/dgbare
or try:
http://www.nytimes.com/pages/dining/index.html?8dpc

There are some interesting cuts of meat in this article that I may try
on our new grill! We inherited a one yr old, non functioning beauty of a gas
grill. Up until now we've been strictly charcoal but gas would be so nice in the
winter....So perhaps Jake can fix it up, he's handy.

Anyone familiar with these cuts? I have a vegetarian at home still and we don't
generally eat much meat!
La

The Farmer's Market/Gray House Pie

2009-04-28T21:06:00.001-04:00

Hello Local Chics -

I've received the North Union Farmer's Market(.org) flyer. Their Shaker Square Market
runs Saturdays 8 - noon. Open now thru Dec 12. Crocker Park runs Saturdays 9-1pm thru Nov 21, 2009. I love the markets but Crocker can get too crazy in the Trader Joe's parking lot. We are fortunate to have many farms just beyond Crocker Park and I'll generally hit those and the roadside stands thru out the summer/fall.
Also will stop for brown eggs, sold usually on the honor system. What is your favorite farmers market/stop/stand?

Its very French to buy certain delicacies to accentute your cooking style and strengths and augment your deficiencies. Consider Gray House Pies at 22560 Lorain Rd Fairview Park OH 44126 (440)777-4pie for fruit, nut, cream and savory pies and quiches. Made from free range eggs, pure butter,organic milk and the best (local if possible) cheeses, fruits snd vegetables.
Scrumptious.

Quite cool today after a very summery weekend with temps in the 80's. Mick reminded me I haven't yet made Chicken Paprikash Soup, which really should be a cold weather
meal. I couldn't do that one, but in the pantry had everything for:

CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP tonight with tostadas from Aldi which *made* the dish:

Heat and simmer a big pot of:

Chicken broth, smooth tomato sauce and lots of chopped garlic.

Assemble various "fillings" - consisting of whatever you desire! Including, but
not limited to:

Rice
Corn
Cubed Avacado
Chilis
Chopped Tomatoes
Sour Cream
Hot Sauce
Shredded Mexican cheeses
Shredded Chicken

Refried or baked beans

Tostados from Aldi (quick this is a seasonal item!)
or crispy tortilla chips (hopefully fried by you).

Fill your bowl with items from above and ladle hot broth over top.
Sigh in contentment as you smell the scent and feel the heat on
your face. Enjoy.

Mealtime - Purse Palate and Portion

2009-04-22T22:36:00.000-04:00

J'adore the concept of regular mealtimes. Three daily opportunities to sample whatever bits of succulance you desire. Truly eat whatever you want - notwithstanding the limits of purse and palate. And of course, portion. You know that small portions are the French woman's ultimate secret of slim.

Meals are meant to be eaten with people. Hopefully those in whose company you thrive. Persons you want to know more about. People who know all about you. Running down the duties of the day over coffee and toast. Perhaps a solitary(hey you're a person), but perfect, grilled cheese and tomato soup lunch. Eating in the company of good conversation - hard to beat. Long evenings over the tablecloth, opening more wine and wishing the wonderful comraderie was a permanent state. Debriefing and then refueling with those you love over a daily family dinner......

Regular mealtime, the romantic notion versus regular mealtime in a busy, modern household.

Breakfast, um sometimes I'm sleeping thru this during the school year, but I can and do hang out in the kitchen when my 3 teens are being somewhat supervised by Jake (Dad) as he makes
lunches (have I done a good thing? my kids refuse school lunch, categorically). And Jake runs the morning show chez nous.

Lunch: I'm generally alone.

Dinner is the real problem. Jake and I are self scheduled. When the kids were younger (up until the last yr and a half or so) we ate dinner en famille most nights. Now the teens activities make a "one -and- for- all" dinner really hard most days. Just having 3 kids with one extra curricular each makes it rough, or it has for me. So I'm trying to figure out the best solution for us.

The 'formula' of 6 hrs between breakfast and lunch, 6 hrs between lunch and dinner and 12 hrs between dinner and breakfast is one on which the Lepitin 'diet' works. I am not really familiar with anything else about Lepitin but this formula has really stuck with me. I feel ready to eat, with at least a mild hunger, when aware of this timing. No snacking! You most certainly can wait for your next meal - isn't it going to be a lovely selection of fresh, top quality foods that pique your appetite? Food and company worth waiting for?

If we eat dinner at 7pm then breakfast is right on time at 7am (during the school year at least) and that leaves lunch at 1pm. With a pause gourmand after school/work.....So with a renewed vigor, we shall dine at 7pm and take it from there. We'll still have to juggle and not everyone will be seated, together, at 7 every single night, but I think it's important to attempt to reinstitutionalize it.

I love dining al fresco and soon we'll be able to do so regularly. We do eat just about every meal on the deck when weather permits. I move my office out there too....
Can't wait for the roses.
La

Carry On

2009-04-17T22:37:00.000-04:00

I love my french market baskets, pictured above.The larger one was a gift from my sister in law at least 8 years ago. Kathy had a shop in the Chicago area and rented the back room to 'Pamela de Provence'. Knowing my love for all things French Kath got it for me for Christmas. It has been used daily and still looks great. I use it for grocery shopping, carrying my essentials to work, for the beach and pool, traveling....endless uses and constant comments from admirers. The small one I bought on sale about 5 yrs ago when shopping on the east side (of the Cuyahoga, bien sur!) and it has been just as wonderful. Snag one if you can find one. Truly these bags are terrific investments.

Two other bags that I use, if not daily, are my panniers. One is pictured above - I am not having much luck in putting the photo where I want it.They hook onto my bicycle in an instant and then travel into the store, library, park, pool etc. very easily having a shoulder strap. I think a bike basket is very cool, but these are pretty great too. Here is a picture of one of my panniers on my bike - okay this photo is not where I want it either - but you can tell which one I'm talking about. I love my bike and when I have both panniers with me I can do quite a bit of

grocery shopping....it's exhilarating flying down the street (home from the market is downhill - the universe conspiring here) with a gallon of milk and 2 bottles of wine and bread and cheese and all my other goodies packed safely in the panniers, feeling free and healthy and eco-concious and just plain good.

Paris on the Cuyahoga

2009-04-15T22:00:00.000-04:00

Cleveland is a city divided by a river, the Cuyahoga. Divided just like Paris - which is of course split in two by the Seine. Like Paris each side of the Cuyahoga has it's own flavor. The East side is older and houses the world famous Cleveland Museum of Art and Severance Hall, home to the world famous Cleveland Orchestra. The West side is considered nouveau when considering it's riches which include the West Side Market, one of the few truly European food markets in the U.S. I'd have to say the East side is thought of as more sophisticated and the West side as lower class. Like most generalizations that is not entirely true, but for the purposes of this blog it capsulizes the differences. Cleveland is located at 41 degrees latitude and Paris at 48. So we enjoy similar weather. Otherwise we do not have much in common. Cleveland has a decidely unglamorous image. Living here can be bleak. When I started this blog I decided to change that, for myself at least. I decided to to live a fabulous, chic life here on the banks of the Cuyahoga. Now that I've gone public with this blog, I am going to promote this eurostyle life because I believe it is healthy, enjoyable and more fun than the typical lifestyle 'enjoyed' by my compatriots. I am not an American basher, but I don't think we have the joy of living sussed out the way the Europeans do. I believe in good food and good wine for everyone! Lots of mandatory vacation time! Family time! Walking! Gardening! Time not spent in front of the tv! Exclamation points! (insert grin here).....and more....which I hope to explore and share here. If you are a local, please join me and share your secret/not so secret places and things to do. If you are not from around here I'd still love your input and ideas and to have you join me on this ever evolving journey. Bisous, La

Coco Chanel

2009-04-14T09:21:00.000-04:00

New movie about icon Coco Chanel, starring Audrey Tautou of Amelie fame.
http://tinyurl.com/c93535. Review from the New York Times.
I love everything Chanel and can't wait to see it.

Austure Times - from the NYTIMES

2009-04-12T10:32:00.000-04:00

Fitting right in with my recent post on thrift here's a link to an article from the April 10, 2009 edition of the New York Times: http://tinyurl.com/dff8br
I, too, believe in looking at the current economic conditions as a gift, not a struggle.
Hope you enjoy it!

Discriminating facial care

2009-04-09T22:12:00.000-04:00

In my last post about frugality, which will from now on be referred to as discrimination (although that may have to change as it sounds weird!), I mentioned the expensive facial cleanser, toner and moisturizer I bought from Mme Jane Seybroyen. Her products were lovely, but it cost over $100 for a supply that lasted just a few months. Some have raved about how Mme's stuff cleared up problems they were having, but I have been blessed with normal skin and didn't see any amazing changes. One of the best things about her program was just that - it was a program. She detailed how to apply the creams and how to remove them. How to tap your skin lightly to increase absorption and circulation. And having an expert tell you to do this, this exact way, daily....well it made me do it! The bottom line is that any program - from skin care to finances and everything in between - must be done with some regularity in order to promote results. I have dabbled in the oil cleansing method and it seems that it would be very inexpensive. Some use olive oil and report amazing results. As soon as I finish up my current bottle of (generic) cetaphil I am going to experiment with more oils (I tried coconut and olive once or twice but not with any regularity, so I can't report any results!). I found this website that explains the process:http://www.theoilcleansingmethod.com/. If you use this method or a variation thereof, I'd love to hear about it. I highly recommend Thayer's Rose Witch Hazel, available at health food stores, as a toner http://www.thayers.com/store/?main_page=index&cPath=3

Frugal French

2009-04-03T11:26:00.000-04:00

When I started on the French Chic journey I almost singlehandedly plunged us into debt. I thought I had to have all the books, beauty treatments and accoutrements (La Bonne Cuisine de Mme E. Saint-Ange, check, at $40.00/expensive cream from Jane Seybroyen to cleanse my face, check, at $100/Lampe Berger, check, at $120. etc). What I know now is that the French, while epitomizing chic, are among the most thrifty people in the world. And that is another thing I love about them - they don't make economizing look painful and cheap - they elevate it to the height that they are seen as being super discriminating about EVERYTHING they bring into their lives. Not cheap, not thrifty, not flintskints, not tightwads - but discriminating consumers seeking only the best. As a result of war and scarcity, they use every part of an animal for cooking. Many of us would run screaming from pig knuckles and tongue, snails and tripe. The French make them into sought after delicacies. They might buy one terrific skirt and wear it forever - maintaining a stable weight (bien sur) so they always fit into it properly - perhaps having it tailored to fit perfectly, or altered slightly to better express their fashion personality. Maybe she'll change the buttons on a sweater to alter the look rather than buy a new one. Take her beloved shoes to the cobbler for an overhaul.
Now that I am focused on eliminating our debt I took La Bonne Cuisine to Half Price Books (it's such a big cookbook that I think shipping via Amazon would be counterproductive) and they offered me fifty cents!! Needless to say I brought it back home and began to really think about what I've learned from the French concerning thrift and I'm going to make it a point to economize a la Francaise. Not a penny pincher will I be, but a discriminating consumer in every thought, word and action.

La Grande Librairie

2009-01-22T22:48:00.000-05:00

I've been a 'francophile' for most of my life, it began with a childhood friend and her family -
emigres from Grenoble. I was in the presence of the mystique of the femme and have been aware of it all these years. I have chased it in my dreams. Celine and Judith, mother and daughter, the icon and the trainee. I wish I had been more observant, more studious. There I was, practically in the cradle of chic myself....dumbing along like a klutzy American. Umm.
Recently I was made aware of a french television program, specifically one episode of La Grande Librairie. http://www.france5.fr/la-grande-librairie/index.php?page=article&numsite=1403&id_rubrique=1406&id_article=5417 It made my dreams swirl again, the raw je ne sais quoi delivered by 4 unique, intelligent women. I couldn't understand their rapid fire speech, but I was captivated by the tone of their voices, their clothes and body language. Each writer had a 'look' and portrayed it very comfortably (bien dans sa peau), with posture and hand gestures and general presence. I found myself watching the show over and over, often as background and now I'm understanding more and more of what these authors are saying. It's become a basic french language lesson along with a lesson in the art of the french femme. And what have I learned?
Some basics - minimal makeup, great hair, toned body, keen mind.
I believe that the French are more disciplined than we are. They push children to study hard.
They expect amenities in life (food, wine, vacation) but don't over do even the good things.

THE ELEGANT NATURAL RECESSIONISTA WORKS WORK

2009-01-14T08:05:00.000-05:00

Generally I prefer la rentree for organization. The start of the school year, the end of summer,
whatever it is - gets me going. Making resolutions in January seems so common. Alors, I have to reevaluate many things right now and premiere among them is - work. Making money. Our recent financial past is not good. Now is the time to promote and hustle and make the most of my appraisal license. Per usual, I got into something (appraisal) at an unusual time. And you'd think a bad time, but you'd be wrong. There is tons of work for RE appraisers. My petite hurdle is weaning away from my current employer to some other sources: banks, attorneys etc. so I get more of the cold hard stuff. Some calculations seem to show I can just about double the fee per report. More money, same work (and always learning a better, faster way).
CURRENTLY ITEM NUMBER ONE FOR THE RECESSIONISTA - making work ultra lucrative will add considerably to it's je ne sais quoi, not to mention what it'll do for the joie de vivre meter.

Mark Bittman's NY Times article - Recessionista: The 2009 Kitchen Primer

2009-01-14T07:52:00.000-05:00

Here is the link to Mark Bittman's NY Times article about
updating your kitchen pantry: http://tinyurl.com/77ojmy.
As I read thru the list, I plan to add more dried beans, homemade
salad dressings (I have lots of great recipes, but the kids have
different ideas about Ranch, for example), grains, frozen
veggies, sweet potatoes and spinach. There is a chance that we
will grow the spinach in our upcoming garden(s) and the beans as
well. I did grow and dry some beans a few years back, but the Recessionista
will make more of an effort to draw a decent yield. She must get
started on seed selection and sprouting etc. We'd like beans to eat
raw, umm like snow peas, and some to save for adding to
our pasta fagoli all winter long.

Everyday Traveler Lifestyle

2009-01-11T16:49:00.000-05:00

When I travel I dress a bit better everyday from a smaller cache. I look more sharply at the surface and smell more consciously of the scents. Novelty sharpens the mundane. In 1920, an independently wealthy young woman on the Grand Tour with no history of employment or need spun out her days on the beach, swimming and walking, cooking, browsing thru musems and small shopping expeditions - sometimes biking - for bread and cheese and fruit, earrings and chocolate, champagne - tanned and toned and relaxed.

ELEGANT NATURAL 2009

2009-01-11T16:39:00.000-05:00

An elegant natural in 2009.
Recessionista
Blending simple frugality and modern
reality to create a joie de vivre
with je ne sais quoi and pleasure for all.
‘Euro’izing as inspiration.
Exteriors: Garden/Biking/Walking

Out of necessity I must produce lots of appraisal
work. This must be done as efficiently as possible.
Vision and follow thru are essential.

Vision and follow thru, planning and action are
essential to traveling fully in the moment. Some
goals and guidelines - ie travel and savings, spiritual
and creative output, will spur output.

rickrack

2007-12-30T18:48:00.000-05:00

Our lives have been one big holiday party for what seems like weeks, but has probably been only,well, weeks. I feel a gargantuan blob and like saussison in my jeans. As do we all, from what I hear (and see!). At last the rounds of cheese and tortilla chips are done. I love to see my friends and family and meet other friends and their families and socialize with people I'll never see again. But, the gourmand/glutton in me is undone by the lovely drinking and pecking and grazing to be done at these soirees fabuleuse(je sais, je sais). At least my jeans *do* zip. For my grande finale du les Holidays.....I will, mmes et messrs, create demain not only one, but two inordinately rich dishes from l'homard, which I consider le ne plus ultra of celebration, bisque et risotto. Lobster bisque and lobster risotto with vinegary green salad and crusty, fluffy rustic bread, a fire roaring, music to the mood and a parade of family and friends for NY Eve, 2007. Au Revoir and let's begin anew in 2008 with hope for another year of joy in living.

2008, I'm beginning to muse

2007-12-28T08:23:00.000-05:00

Not really much for too much foresight, I am none the less considering 2008 rather scrupulously - well, month by month anyway. This plan was put into motion by all the upcoming travel plans, both firm and dreamish(and their payment plans) that await us.
Janvier - loads of family birthdays. business in Toledo.
Février - St V,possibly Ellicotville or Toronto
Mars - Marblehead/Boston
Avril - NYC/Boston (M), Wash DC (C)
Mai - Chicago
Juin - China (C)
Juillet - Traverse City,MI,
Août - Toronto
Septembre
Octobre - The Camp (Pa)
Novembre
Decembre
We are not all going on each trip, and some may be subject to change. The tricky part is figuring out when I'll be ready to test for my license. This involves, of necessity, speed, but is subject to the whims of a very slow market. I want to pounce, but only when ready. Due to changes in licensing that would affect my situation in 2009 I am stepping up and will have to take 2 major tests this year. I have a separate plan for this and will be working very hard to get it done.

Shopping with men

2007-12-27T13:28:00.000-05:00

Telling stories about shopping with an adolescent boy. Anything to do with adolescent boys - funny!! Especially to their aunts. How they go into the dressing room and you wait "Hello!!??"frustrated at the entrance, "how's it going in there?", how long does it take to get into the pants for crying out loud? M can go for days with 3 pair. I sit outside and make friends with the other women, waiting too. We commiserate about how freaking slow men are. We grow old together. All this for a pair of pants likely to be pondered and rejected anyway. Her man walks out, oh a grown one. Will M emerge, middle aged? Urgh. They never change, do they? And now he's got "skater's hair", don't even ask.

my sister and brother in law's christmas present

2007-12-27T09:08:00.000-05:00

Or the Absence of Absinthe, Not.

This is a story that will be told. Has been twice (at least) since Christmas Eve round the U.'s dining room table where it took place.

I feel virtuous having completed both pilates and abs/thighs workout this am. Out the door in a minute to take C. for birthday breakfast. She's late, bien sur! A gift of wine and start the day off right - love breakfast food. Poor dogs will have to wait - it's wet right now.

Considering 2008.

Holiday baking and composure

2007-12-22T20:50:00.000-05:00

This time of year I visit several markets to pick up items necessary for some Christmas tradtional treat or another. Chicken livers for the "pink meat" soup dumplings. Frozen roll dough for the pecan rolls. 3 1.5 lb lobsters for bisque and risotto. Port Salut for snacking - a subsititute for Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam triple cream cheese which is my new to die for desire. Sold out. Veuve Cliquot and that. Yes, yes, YES!!
I have to call Fred and get the names of the three cheeses at his holiday soiree. Wonderful night with fresh figs, creamy goat, purple grapes and bleu/roquefort, crumbly pecorino(?) with honey.... A very cheesy christmas to you, too.
I maintain a high level of walking and swimming this time of year so I may indulge. The hot chocolate is yummier after a brisk hike with the dogs. Dog walking is such a no brainer! They love it and thrive and you burn daily fat, clear your mind and thrive too.The pool is trickier but I get the schedule and do what I can. 40 minutes of crunches/thigh exercises/yoga/pilates 2x a week, daily streches and daily walk and house cleaning exercise. Yard work! It's built in to my life. I bike for many errands. I always make a route when going out so I don't backtrack. I park at the end of the lot - if I drive at all. Lots of water to drink. I love warm drinks too this time of year: tea, coffee and hot chocolate.
Looking forward to making my tradional quiche, carmely pecan rolls and some new treats with the great looking lobster I got from Aldi. The sushi sampler from Trader Joe's was so tasty by the way....great light, satisfying meal. Baked our sugar cookies today - lovely, creamy stars, santa, trees etc with brown edges waiting for tomorrow's icing assult....and maybe I'll make coconut meringues tomorrow too....if I think I can be a good girl with them in the house:)

what begins as a blog entry

2007-12-09T23:20:00.000-05:00

Even tho I travel extensively, home is everything I love. My atelier is within my home - with an important, additional field office on my deck. The outdoor room is paramount and my style dictates a comfortable mixture of old linen, leather and wood, worn orientals and hardwood floors - trashed elegance, you might say, rust has become my friend. Mme Pereire roses (mine are featured in the slideshow at right) swarming over the elevator door trellis/wall. Seducing with scent and that unimaginable green/pink clash....heaven.
Of course you must have a bed. So you can spread out with all your things: books, coffee,notebooks and other fodder. A lounge or a desk, not the same really. Must be a bed and I support bed culture in general, but that's the subject of another post.
Big baskets, wooden troughs with handles, lovely large trays (am infatuted with trays)for transporting books, magazines and delicious sustinance indoors to out. I never spill a drop!!
Outdoors is a luxury with two level living: a wooden deck off the house and a stone patio opening into grass. A charcoal grill and radiant heat lamps make our northern Ohio paradise inhabitable almost all year long and we cook and eat there often. Pillows, blankets, unrolled carpets.....like an elegant, old fashioned picinic - only we do it always.

anything continental going on around here???yet??

2007-12-09T22:05:00.000-05:00

We've been to two holiday parties so far. The cheeses at both have been fantastic.

Our fireplace has been well used so far this season, we ate dinner fireside this evening once again.

I'm machine embroidering washcloths for the kids as a stocking stuffer. Found plush white ones, got each kid a dozen and am edging one side of each cloth with words that "fit" the child: Leo, Marching Band, Puppies etc.. Hope they will like the personalization and will actually use them on their adolescent faces with more frequency.

Dabbling with 2 Chanel samplers: Coco and Mademoiselle....

Everyone seems to like my updated hairstyle, "Lisa Rinna" is the inspiration (according to the stylist)and I've started parting it on the left. It has made a difference, who knew?

Continually weeding out my closet.
Wearing some makeup every day.

Thanksgiving

2007-11-23T08:33:00.000-05:00

Feeling less than thankful these days, so the day was a challenge. Intellectually I know that I have lots to be thankful for but let's just say I'm concentrating on the the negative these days.(apologies to the fabulous "accentuate the positive" Johnny Mercer http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johnny_Mercer).
How French was my holiday? Not so much. Do the French play Yahtzee? Anyone? I know they don't guzzle bourbon manhattans and cosmopolitans as (absolutely necessary) predinner sedatives. And green beans with mushroom soup and crunchy onions on top, while yummy, just don't have the je ne sais quoi one might associate with haricot verts shimmering in the teensiest gloss of buerre. Oh! - a Dora the Explorer cake for dessert. Those of you unfamiliar with Dora should really get some new friends in the 3 to 4 year old range. Of course there was also pumpkin pie. What do you think we are?

posting at least twice a year

2007-11-21T13:04:00.000-05:00

I forgot how to access my own blog.
Kinda lost interest, too. Then I read another's post about how these daily posts can help one really live in the moment and that resonated with me. Not that I'll have time/anything of interest/desire to post daily, but....I do want to live more in the moment so perhaps I'll give it a try. At the very least I can post more than two times in a year!
The purpose of this blog is to inspire me to live more fully, every day. To make conscious decisions. Not to wait for "big" celebration days such a holidays to bring out the good silver and champagne. And I call it Paris on the Cuyahoga because I live in the Cleveland suburbs and I really want to be living in Paris. The Cuyahoga River separates the East and West sides of Cleveland, rather like the Seine divides the Right and Left Banks of Paris. From what I've seen, read and been told, Parisians (and many other cultures, to be fair), live more in the present tense than most Americans. Every day items like meals and clothes choice are expressions of individuality - they don't wait for the big moment. They claim their lives. Money and what you "do" are not as important as who you "are".

my latest obsession

2006-12-04T00:07:00.000-05:00

While out driving the other day I happened upon an apple orchard farm and stopped in for some cider and, duh, apples. What a great find: the best apples I've ever had - fiji - crisp, white, sweet. And the cider was smooth and pristine, no hint of fermentation ( not that that's a bad thing....in wine, anyway), simply the best I've ever had.
Now I will have to drive 45 minutes for apples as the ones from the health food store don't match up.