First Day of Advent

Today marks the first day of Advent. We started our day by opening the first window of the calendar I picked up at Trader Joe's. The best part is that we can begin each day with a yummy piece of chocolate. Happy first day of December! - P

What would it be like to visit Paris at Christmas?

As much as I love Paris in the spring (I have been lucky enough to experience it twice), I think it would be absolutely wonderful to visit during Christmas. I envision walking the streets with a light dusting of snow, admiring the holiday décor and lovely shop windows. After a bit of shopping I would stop in a bakery for a chocolate croissant and then off to a café to relax, drinking café au lait. I have to say one of my most special nights I spent in Paris was a rainy night at St. Sulpice church. Having said all that, I have planned Paris at home every weekend during the month of December for my husband. Shhh, don’t tell. I bought 4 books, giving him one each Saturday and depending on the topic of the book I plan to add a gift along with it. I also hope our lunch or dinner will reflect a French theme. I will post each weekend as I go along. Does anyone plan silly things like this? Has anyone ever spent their Christmas in Paris? - P

Here are a few of my past photos of Paris in the spring.

Season of Giving

I try to give as much as possible throughout the year. I encourage you to as well, whether it is blood, time, money, or even a smile. ~A

Rain, Snow, Come My Way

Although I really did not go out shopping today I did recently purchase a pair of Hunter boots. I've wanted them for ages and also decided to splurge on the striped welly socks. So cute and functional for this time of year. - P

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving to all! Just a little snapshot of how we started our morning. A -met at my house and we participated in a 4 mile Turkey trot to ensure we deserved all the food we would eat today. Although the weather wasn't the most desired (30's F and raining) we had a great time getting out to join others running. Hope you had a wonderful day too. - P

Early Christmas gifts

As I was trying to get an early start on my husbands Christmas gifts I stumbled upon Orla Kiely's book on Amazon. I love Orla Kiely's designs. I received the early present to myself yesterday. Does anyone else tend to buy gifts for themselves as they are shopping for family and friends? I also had to pleasure of shopping at Orla Kiely's store in Hong Kong before it was closed down. - P

Melbourne Beach Time

I do not prefer the beach, but I always enjoy it. Beautiful. Powerful. Peaceful. And very sandy. I think I took home enough sand to build a castle! -A