Paris, here I come!

Leaving little Oscar behind in my husband's care always manages to stress me out...especially when I arrive home after work to find a stove burner full on, waiting for its pot. But there is no pot and there is no husband, just Oscar and a nice red flame: another narrow escape from potential disaster. Honestly!

It will be very busy this time around. There will be lots of running around and exploring to do.  I will be staying in new hotels, discovering areas I should have long ago, such as Canal Saint-Martin, catching exhibits, specifically The Mexican Suitcase at the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaïsme and the Haute Couture at Paris Hôtel de Ville, and finally trying out Chez l'Ami Jean – a restaurant I have been meaning to get to for ages.

I will sit on a book bench in Square Gabriel Pierné, stroll through the winding streets of Montmartre and break the bank at Le Bon Marché.  And by "break the bank," I mean window shop.

What I am definitely most excited about is my line-up of hotels!

The très modern and chic Mandarin Oriental, situated on my favourite shopping street, rue Saint-Honoré...

...a newly restored Prince de Galles located on the ever-so elegant Avenue George V...

...Hotel Lancaster with its charming, lush terrace...

...and the brand-new boutique hotel, Marquis Faubourg Saint-Honoré.

I cannot say which I prefer… at least not yet; however, I am looking forward to all of them!

Expect a full account on my return and see which establishments and suggestions make it to the website!

Au revoir! 

Image Credits

1. Paris, by Rebecca Plotnick

2. Oscar and "Husband", by Yours Truly

3. The Book Bench, by A Bunch of Benches

4. Mandarin Oriental Paris, by Mandarin Oriental

5. Prince de Galles, by Starwood Prince de Galles

6. Hotel Lancaster, by Hotel Lancaster

7. Marquis Faubourg Saint-Honoré, by Marquis Faubourg Saint-Honoré

When my sister decided to accompany me to Paris, I was thrilled. Lynn is the thrifty one, you see. A trip across the pond is something she takes quite seriously. I suppose, however, that the timing was right, as it only took a minute until I heard her elated response: "Yes!"

We are quite different, she and I. She did well in school, settled down early and had two beautiful children. I despised school, left for the big city, and remained single for quite some time. Only recently have I settled down, and only now am I thinking of adding a little one to the chaos of my already exhausting life of a high maintenance husband (sorry honey) and dog (I am not sorry, Oscar—you are crazy!). But we have our similarities, which keep us tight.

The morning we arrived in Paris we were gung-ho, a little sleep deprived, but pumped. We were in Paris, after all.I remember taking deep breaths of fresh, crisp air while exiting the stuffy airport and making our way to the taxi cue. I was anxious to get moving so I could point out Sacré-Cœur – it's the first monument you spot when entering the city.

What were the chances of scoring the craziest driver? Apparently, very high.

Within seconds we were being tossed about in the car; the driver turning here and swerving there. I think my sister might have actually grunted when I pointed my finger at Sacré-Cœur. Motion sickness.

My poor, dear sister looked as though she had just won first prize in the Miss Pale contest. Instead of being sympathetic, I snapped a picture.

"Not funny!" she barked.

OK, maybe it was more like an angry moan. Oh, how I would love to post that picture. Kidding, Lynn! I'll tuck that one away… where it'll be safe for when I really need it.

We finally reached our cute little apartment. It was located on Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, just off Rue Saint-Honoré – an ideal location. Since it was only a two-minute walk from our temporary home, our first outing was the Palais Royale. To this day it remains her favourite; perhaps because it was the first real hit of Paris.

Having studied art history at school, she was captivated while strolling through Musée d'Orsay, and even more so at the Musée du Louvre. The enormity of the 'The Wedding Feast at Cana' fascinated her to the point of her slipping into a trance.

"Really, Lynn? It's been 30 minutes on one painting!"

Without even a slight acknowledgement to her cranky sister, Lynn ever so gracefully carried on. She was in art heaven, and no one was going to ruin it.

Her favourite pastry was crêpe au jambon, and of course she adored the ever-so-flaky croissant.

During our entire time her eyes spoke volumes. They were literally sparkling. She was so beautiful in Paris. The City of Light just does that to you.

Recently I said something that hurt her: a stupid, senseless, asinine comment. I hated myself for it. So when I got home that evening, I cried my little eyes out, opened my laptop, and wrote this piece. For some reason, reminiscing about our trip to Paris seems to have fixed it all.

Sisters are precious. They should be treasured, and I am so incredibly grateful for mine.

To me, love should be spontaneous, not forced and shown through a card and a little chocolat on a specific day.

When I was a child, my mother made sure I handed out Valentines to all the kids at school, even the nerds, the bullies and little Michael, the boy I had a crush on while always denying it. "Don't leave anyone out!" she instructed.

How was it possible to send out a "Will you be mine?" or "Darn it, you gotta be my Valentine!" or "Let's get together!" to the class bully I wanted to sock in the head? Awkward. With a furrowed brow, I scurried off to write my cards and brace myself for the following day, knowing what lay ahead – a day of having to endure googly-eyes from the class nerd who took my card the wrong way.

When I was all grown up, single and living on my own, V-Day continued to make me cringe. Not because I was bitter or lonely; I just didn't understand where I belonged on that day. Even today, with Mr. Right in my life, I continue to feel it's a bit silly.

But it's Sunday morning, the sun is out, the birds are chirping, 96.3 FM is blaring out some sweet Mozart, it's four days from Love Day, and here I am, thinking about it.

So, I decided to Google how the French celebrate Valentine's Day - and it is not with a piece of cheese.

I was definitely amused with what I found. Here is a snippet from a blog called Metis Linens.

"A peculiar custom that arose was known as 'une loterie d'amour,' or 'drawing for love'. Unmarried people of all ages would go into houses facing each other and begin calling out from one window to another and pair off with a chosen partner. If a young man was not particularly enthralled with his new Valentine, he would desert her. Later, a bonfire would be lit and the single ladies would burn images of their ungrateful lovers and shout abuses at them. The ritual was eventually abandoned when, thankfully, the French government handed down a decree which officially banned the custom."

Crazy. See what Valentine's Day does to people? Love it.

I will end this mumble jumble with my favourite Valentine's memory. One year, my husband came home with roses one week early. In an irritable tone, he said, "it isn't right that prices triple in a week's time, so we are celebrating a week early!"

Happy Valentine's Day to all my dear friends and fellow Paris enthusiasts!

And dare I say...

with lots of Love,

Norma 

Image credits:

1. Vintage Card via www.vintageholidaycrafts.com.  

2. Heart-shaped cheese via www.frenchentree.com. 

3. Paris Flower Market via www.georgiannalane.com.

Carina lives in the most beautiful surroundings 20 minutes outside of Paris. (My first-born for her house!! And by "first-born", I mean my pup Oscar.)

Carina was recently snowed-in and decided to throw on her boots and battle the outdoors to capture her beloved home and countryside. How marvelous!

And this is nothing! Check out her wonderful blog - http://www.carinaokula.com/blog/.

by Carina Okula. 

We landed in Paris mid-morning on Christmas Eve. Arriving at our hotel to find out that our room was not quite ready, we decided to quickly part ways and purchase our stocking stuffers (we had brought along our stockings to stuff in Paris – so exciting!). After hours of shopping, the plan was to meet at Chanel – just for a quick look.

My husband arrived and settled himself into a comfy chair. He sat back and watched on as I cruised through my favourite shop, drooling at the sight of the luxurious items that seemed so unreachable.

Since it was Christmas Eve, they were serving champagne. What an excellent idea! Two glasses of pink champagne later, my husband was beginning to feel a little warm and fuzzy. Not too long after, I left 31 Rue Cambon with the most precious and memorable Christmas gift I have ever received! Ahhh! Oh to repeat that experience.

That Christmas in Paris was pure excellence, in every way. So much so that we decided to do it all over again this year… minus the little gem from Chanel, of course (hmpf). Needless to say, the stockings are packed!

Hopefully, they will soon be stuffed with goodies from Hediard and Ladurée, maybe socks from Bon Marché, or my favourite soap from L'Occitane. Perhaps even a candle from Astier de Villatte. How about a slice of the gigantic tarte au citron meringue from Le Loir dans la Théière'? MMMMM!

The big question I'm asking myself now, though, is where we should meet up this time around after our little shopping excursion. My face lit up with a sneaky smile, I tap my fingertips together and plot. Plotting is not something I'm proud of… but I'm so darn good at it!

Jerome Dreyfuss? Hermès? Peirre Hardy? Roger Vivier? Hmmm, where? Moynat? Just to look, of course. Oui, Moynat.

I will have to bring along a flask of pink champagne in case this establishment doesn't provide its patrons with the necessary shopping potion. By the way, shop owner, I cannot stress enough how effective it is! Moynat, I will see you on the 24th!

After our shopping expedition I am hoping we will once again indulge in a couple of festive bevies at the best lounge in Paris, Bar 228 at Le Meurice.

Instead of staying at the glorious George V like we did two years ago, this time we're opting for the très chic Le Royal Monceau-Raffles. Having already toured this stunning hotel I can only imagine how it will feel to settle in. 

On Christmas Day we will bundle up and ride the ferris wheel in the Tuileries, stroll through the glorious garden, then roam the beautiful surrounding streets.

Next, we'll visit the traditional outdoor markets on Champs-Élysées while sipping mulled wine and treating ourselves to a little gingerbread.

In the end, though, it doesn't matter where you spend the holidays or how you spend them. Paris is a glamorous venue; however, if you are not with those you love it doesn't mean much.

My little Christmas message to you is: be happy, be kind and if you love the universe, it will love you back. I live my life on these notions and I have to say – so far, so good.

I wish you and your family a healthy and very Merry Christmas.

Joyeux Nöel!

So, over the past couple of weeks I contacted a few friends, writers, photographers and bloggers and asked them to send me one of their favourite pictures from Paris at Christmas.

Here are the fantastic results. I love them all and they are in no particular order:  

Carina Okula is an excellent photographer and children's craft creator living near Paris. Her images say it all. You will love her website!

Deirdre Kelly is the author of 'Paris Times Eight' - a wonderful and intriguing story about her beautiful love for Paris. She lives in Toronto, Canada. 

Chloe Kroeter is a PhD candidate in Art History at Cambridge University. She has a grant to spend the year in Paris finishing her thesis. She is also the daughter of Jennie Fields, author of an excellent book - 'The Age of Desire'. 

Eleanor Fullalove is an expert on France and French culture and writes for French Entrée while living in Bath, England. I adore her last name!

Sarah Taylor is an executive with My French Life. She lives between Lyon and Paris and splits her time between the two. I'm a little (lot) jealous!      

Guillaume Davin is the President of Moynat in Paris - one of the most beautiful, luxurious leather brands I have ever laid my eyes on. Monsieur Davin lives in Paris.

Loui Frank is the author of 'Parisian Postcards: Snapshots of Life in Paris'. Although she lives in Paris, she also loves to escape to a little Miami sunshine in the winter – lucky lady!

Heather Stimmler-Hall is a professional travel writer, private guide (a fun and very good one!) and creator of Secrets of Paris. She also lives in Paris.

Elizabeth Bard is the author of 'Lunch in Paris: A Love Story, with Recipes'. A must read!

Lynne Knowlton is a very special friend. Her blog is fun and always entertaining, but on some days life gets serious and it can also bring on a tear or two. Lynne used to live in Paris, and although she now has a lovely home (and an incredible treehouse!) in the countryside outside of Toronto, Canada, she misses it every day. 

 Kasia Dietz is a brilliant handbag designer and writes wonderful stories of Paris on her beautiful blog, Love in the City of Lights. She lives in Paris.

 Marine Lieber is a Communications Executive at the one-and-only Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris. She is one lovely lady, to say the least.

Bernard Vidal is a professional photographer and the President of Holidays France Rentals. Looking for an apartment in Paris? Contact Bernard!

And finally, here is my entry: I took this picture on Christmas Day morning in 2010. It was a little chilly and my husband wanted to stay indoors, so I ventured out on my own. It brings back a vivid memory of the air being so fresh and invigorating. It is definitely in my most favourite pictures list!

If you have a favourite Christmas pic, no matter where it was taken, I would love to see it - info@mybeautifulparis.com.

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'Paris A Love Story' by Kati Marton

I gobbled up this book in five hours. I have never in my life read a book in five hours—for a couple of reasons. First one being, I love making a good book last, and second, I have never had a book take a hold on me so quickly. I began reading and couldn't put it down until I was finished.

Kati Marton is a successful and talented journalist. She writes about her fascinating life with such passion. This is what grabbed me. She takes you there, making you feel as though you are with her each exciting and painful step of the way. But mostly, I admire her honesty and ability to write in such a way while in the midst of heartbreak.

This is a beautiful love story that will no doubt leave you sitting back and reflecting.

____________________________________________________

'The Age of Desire' by Jennie Fields

Historical fiction based on real-life characters is my favourite genre. A little fiction based on a little nonfiction interests me to no end. So here is another gem of a book that takes you into the life of famed author Edith Wharton.

Her disappointing, sexless marriage, and 'dolt' of a husband, pushes her into a bittersweet love affair that troubles her for years. It is the early 1900s and she meets her man in Paris at a salon, a popular weekly gathering for the privileged and intellectual of the day.

Jennie Fields paints an intriguing picture of Edith's life in Paris as well as her life at The Mount, her country estate in the United States where she spent her summers.

I was definitely not finished with Edith after the book, so I grabbed my laptop and googled her for hours.

____________________________________________________

'Remarkable Creatures' by Tracy Chevalier

Chevalier's novel takes place in the early 1800s. It retells the captivating true story of Mary Annings. Mary lived in Lyme, a coastal town in West Dorset, England.

Since she had an eye for finding fossils, Mary's days were spent searching the beaches and cliffs for the 'curiosities' which her family sold to tourists.

During one of Mary's hunts she came across an unusual looking specimen. Calling in the help of family and friends to dig the piece out, she found nothing less than the bones of a dinosaur—an incredible find!

I found the story interesting, as women back then were not acknowledged for any kind of success. Mary's find was handed over to a gentleman who took credit. Only later in life did Mary finally receive the recognition that she so deserved.

____________________________________________________

'Paris by Plaque' by Paul Bethel and Anna Meakin

If you are a history fanatic like me who finds yourself staring at an old wall a little too long because it has some historical significance, or standing captivated at a corner where Picasso once stood, or enthralled that you are walking up the exact set of steps that Toulouse-Lautrec would have climbed, then you would very much enjoy Anna and Paul's walk.

They take you to each historical plaque throughout Montmartre in Paris and translate it for you! It is the perfect tour for a non-French speaking visitor. I have passed those plaques many times wishing I could understand them. I know, take French lessons. I've tried!

You can find their book on Amazon. Or pick up a copy, when you arrive, at the wonderful little Musée de Montmartre.

Pick up a good book and pour yourself a lovely glass of wine. I can't imagine an evening better spent!

A recent shopping excursion down Rue du Bac, visiting every single shop right down to the Bon Marché and the glorious Grande Épicerie de Paris, was enjoyable and pleasant.

That evening, while relaxing in the lounge at the lovely Hotel Daniel, I sat back and thought of how visitors are treated – about how I've been treated during years of Paris visits.

Yes, I have been scoffed at, "pffffed" at, and even tickled under my chin while attempting to communicate with my horribly embarrassing French. I have also been plowed right into because I didn't move out of someone's way. Or someone has butted right in front of me, pretending as though they didn't realize there was a line.

But, aside from these exceptions, I do believe the customer service is excellent!

Here's why: I just need service and a little assistance, perhaps a café crème or a croissant, nothing more – and this is what the French are good at. For those who prefer the typical restaurant chain welcome of "Hi, my name is Melissa and I will be your server today" or typical shop greeter saying "Hi, welcome to… can I help you find anything?" then perhaps you many find their aloofness off-putting. I find it freeing. It puts me at ease.

And although they have no interest in becoming friends or striking up conversation, shopkeepers and waiters do expect respect and acknowledgement.

A Parisian shop worker appreciates a friendly « bonjour » when you enter and a « merci » as you exit.

Remember, you are in their boutique, their café, their boulangerie – their territory. You will experience their zero tolerance if you are a demanding customer with an ugly, holier-than-thou attitude. It would make anyone cringe, non?

When it comes to hotels, the individuals positioned at a front desk require a certain positive energy, along with patience and a genuine compassionate demeanour.

You will find these types in the hotels mentioned on my website. Whether the category is luxurious, elegant or inexpensive, customer service is a major deciding factor for me when considering a hotel for my site.

Because of the rumours I did warn my husband before his first trip to Paris: "Parisians can be a little aloof. Don't misunderstand them." Yet the taxi drivers, concierge, waiters and shop workers all seemed to take to my husband marvelously. They were proving me wrong!

Of course this is my opinion, based on my personal experience. However, I am a firm believer that you will get out of customer service what you put into it. As the saying goes, it takes two to tango.

If respect is shown, respect is given. 

There were no ifs, ands, or buts about it – it was only a matter of time. Our determination was so innocent, so matter of fact. It was, and is, a great way to dream!

Ever since I learned that Coco Chanel lived at The Ritz Paris, and her previous digs were now a hotel suite that you could rent (for a measly 8,000 Euros a night!), I desperately wanted a peek. It would be a little view into the private world of Coco.

A sleepover was not an option for me; therefore, a little sneak peek would have to suffice. 'Operation Coco Chanel' officially began.

After many tries, I finally landed a contact, my 'guy' at The Ritz. I now had access; however, surprisingly, it was forever booked! It was going to have to be about being there at the right time, which was quite difficult seeing as I lived across an ocean from Paris.

During my last trip to Paris, I tried yet again to no avail. But, a couple of days into my visit, my cell phone rang. The caller exclaimed, "Madame, we have ten minutes now!"

"Ahhhhh, I'm coming!" was my response as I scurried off. "To the Ritz!" I hollered at the cab driver.

My butterflies were out in full force as we made our way to her front door. I was walking in the footsteps of Mademoiselle Chanel. I could even feel my breathing pattern start to change.

He unlocked the door, I took an elated, deep breath, and we walked in. I was told the layout is very much the way it was during her residency. Her original Chinese folding screen is still there, and I instantly recognized her fireplace from images I had seen.

I stared at the few steps leading to the tiny balcony where she would have stood looking over her prized neighbourhood of Place Vendôme.

I left in a daze, imagining and reflecting on what it would have been like to be her.

I thought about her growing up in poverty, being admitted to a convent at the early age of 12, meeting a gentleman that would forever change her life, losing her one true love in a tragic motor accident, and living in Paris during the Nazi Occupation. Though she had her triumphs, she also experienced much tribulation.

As I retreated from The Ritz, it was only appropriate to make my way to Angelina's for a chocolat chaud – her favourite. And a little toast to Coco was made.

As for Orla, after high school we sadly parted ways. Life took us in different directions. Over the years, though, I thought of her often. It took almost ten years before Orla and I reunited. And when we did, we did it so eloquently – in Paris. When she accepted my invitation to meet in our favoured city, she did not hesitate for a second. She booked her flight that day.

I will never forget sitting at a café with my eyes fixed on the metro station she was to emerge from on her way in from the airport. There she was! My beautiful Orla was back, along with a friendship that I will treasure forever. Our first stop: Chanel.

Astier de Villatte makes my heart melt and is unquestionably my favourite shop in Paris!

This rustic piece of heaven holds the most wonderful hand-made pottery I have ever seen. I have been collecting for years. Every time I'm there, I scoop up a piece from the Alexandre collection. I am so very close to a table for six!  

Besides their dreamy dishes, they also sell beautifully scented candles. I picked one up named Commune de Paris, lifted the lid and the scent was of Paris! Perhaps it is just me, it probably is, but this candle smells like Paris. I adore it!! Every time I visit, I bring one home. 

Subscribe to my website and you could win a Commune de Paris candle. These little beauties are worth over 50 Euros.

(Candles pictured above are sold in ADV's pottery valued at approximately 140 Euros each. The candle I am giving away will be in glass, which is pictured below.)

Enter your email address in the Email Notification box located in the blog section and you could be enjoying a Commune de Paris as well!

The winner will be chosen on October 23rd. 

Bonne chance! 

Given that my previous article for My French Life™ focused on the author Sandra Gulland, it is only right that I begin with her novel 'Mistress of the Sun'.

'Mistress of the Sun' by Sandra Gulland

With all of the yummy ingredients of a perfect historical novel – passion, scandal, and romance – this story will grab you from the get-go. Louise de la Vallière, sweetly nicknamed Petite, was not a typical king's mistress. It wasn't her beauty or charisma that captured the king's heart. In fact, she was a most humble girl. It was her extraordinary horsemanship.

Read about how Petite, without the necessary attributes usually required for the role of mistress, became the most beloved of Louis XIV.

'Madame Tussaud' by Michelle Moran

I am a little embarrassed to admit that when picking up 'Madame Tussaud', by Michelle Moran, I did not immediately make the wax museum connection, probably a good thing.

The connection was made when I was well into the book. For me, this story was about a talented young woman in Paris whose gift for wax modelling got her entangled in the nasty business of death masks during the French Revolution. All of a sudden it struck me: "Hold it, she's the wax museum lady!" Her story is remarkable. They say she was the one who formed Marie Antoinette's death mask. Fascinating!

'Sarah's Key' by Tatiana de Rosnay

'Sarah's Key' by Tatiana de Rosnay will forever be one of the most moving novels I have ever read. It is profoundly sad, yet incredibly good. Little ten-year- old Sarah is from Paris. Due to the German occupation, she finds herself in the darkest place imaginable, a concentration camp. There, she pines for her little brother who was left behind as a result of her own doing- good intentions gone horribly wrong.

Her survival story and search for her brother is heart wrenching from beginning to end. Keep a box of tissues at hand! It is an absolute must-read.

'The Paris Wife' by Paula McLain

The main character in 'The Paris Wife', by Paula McLain, gets my knickers in a knot, but in an intriguing manner. Hemingway's ways, for lack of better words, were destructive. This book gives you excellent insight into what it would have been like to be a part of Hemingway's life as a wife, a lover, a friend or a foe while he lived in Paris.

'French Women Don't Get Fat', by Mireille Guiliano

Now here's a book that couldn't be more full of common sense if it tried! 'French Women Don't Get Fat', by Mireille Guiliano, is not rocket science; it's logical.

Something I've learned on my many trips to France is that a French woman does not binge on Salt 'n' Vinegar chips while she's reading a book, or taking the train, or when she's just simply bored. They do not snack, period. Imagine the calories we would save if we didn't snack? I asked my Parisian friend "What do you snack on? Do you ever get the munchies?" "What is snack?" Emmanuelle replied.

She eats when she is supposed to. Another important point is they eat what's in season. It must be fresh. Let's take a page out of her book, shall we?

Immersing yourself into another person's world can be a refreshing break from focusing on your own, especially when the book you're reading has to do with Paris. So grab a book and take a break. Enjoy!
 

Her pictures are beautiful and speak volumes.

As her love for Paris is quite evident, I asked her for a little blurb on what exactly she loves the most. 

"If I had one word to describe Paris it would be "magical". It may sound a little cheesy if you have never been, but I have my reasons.

I am a travel photographer. I first dreamt of going to Paris when I was a child. I studied French when I was younger and finally made it to Paris in my early 20's.

My pictures rarely have people in them. I wake up before the sun rises and walk the streets. A day is not complete without a walk by the Seine. I walk the sidestreets of Paris away from the tourists and I try my best to capture everyday life in my photographs. The city is filled with magic and light throughout the day.

For the full picture of Paris, make sure to listen to the sounds and smell the fresh pastries baking in the morning. Stop by the Marais on Sunday while the rest of the city is quiet. The Marais is filled with laughter and noise.

If you are visiting Paris, don't forget to pack an umbrella. There is no better way to explore the city than in the rain!" 

Rebecca's photographs are available to purchase on Etsy. Check them out!

Here are my favourites:

The respect I already had for this woman cemented the instant that I met her. She walked into the coffee shop and kissed me on the cheek as though we had been friends for years. How can you not immediately admire a woman with such affability?

Sandra Gulland is the author of The Josephine B.Trilogy– three of my all-time favourite books, and I have read hundreds. (I actually just counted to verify such a statement, and it's true. It's time for a bookshelf!)

After reading The Josephine B. Trilogy, I was besotted and quite curious to learn more about Joséphinede Beauharnais. My search led me to discover that her country house was still standing. Not only was the Château de Malmaison still standing, it was a museum!

My next trip to Paris, I dragged my girlfriend Lynne with me, and went off to find the Château de Malmaison. The Château is located 13 kilometres west of Paris in the city of Rueil-Malmaison.

I enjoyed every minute and every inch of Josephine and Napoleon's home.

But after my visit I wasn't satisfied. It was as if my Josephine journey wasn't finished. A year passed by and one day it dawned on me: the author!

I wanted to meet the woman who was responsible for these enchanting books. Several emails later, a date was set. I had managed to arrange some one-on-one time with Sandra Gulland.

My plan was to conduct a structured interview. I had so many questions; however, it became the most natural conversation.

We had great fun discussing our mutual love for Paris, suggesting books to read, and exchanging stories, even a couple of ghost stories. My ghost story was brought up by chance and I was happy to have shared it as it led Sandra to tell me about the psychic she consulted before starting the book she is currently writing. It was fascinating to learn that many authors do exactly that before they begin writing about their next character. They are looking for a sense of support: the characters' blessing, if you will.

The one question I was determined to ask was if she felt a connection with Josephine while writing the books. Being somewhat of a spiritual person myself, I couldn't imagine not having some sort of link with someone while delving so deeply into their life, as Sandra did with Josephine. Sandra's eyes lit up and she said yes. While gently patting her shoulder she said she felt Josephine right there the entire time she was writing the first book. Josephine's presence left her when she started the second book. It was as though she trusted Sandra to move forward without her.

I was surprised to find out that Sandra did not start writing until she was 40.  Therefore, I have to mention the video on her website where she talks about how she became a writer. Before she started writing, someone asked her what she envisioned inscribed on her tombstone. Her answer? "She never got around to it." She now says the message inscribed can be "She did it!"

This specifically struck a chord with me. Sandra, you have inspired me immensely. My Josephine journey is now complete and I will never forget our time in the coffee shop. Our next meeting will be about Claude deVin des Œillets, the heroine of her next novel, over a chocolat chaud at Angelina's in Paris!

I quickly made my way to the taxi stand; "Hôtel Plaza Athénée, 25 Avenue Montaigne s'il vous plaît," I said to the driver. 'Plaza Athénée!' I repeated in my head in a high-pitched scream. My Beautiful Paris was invited to stay for one night. 

With the beautiful red geraniums and signature red awnings slowly coming into view, I can assure you my increasing smile and wide-opened eyes said it all. The room was beyond anything I had imagined and was top-drawer in each possible way. Every aspect was divine. It was difficult to leave it! Nevertheless my jam packed agenda was calling me.

After quickly consuming a croissant and café au lait, I headed to Musée Gustave-Moreau. I had heard that the most beautiful staircase sits in this little museum and I desperately wanted to see it. After entering I quickly realized it wasn't just about the staircase – the art and Monsieur Moreau's living quarters were just as fascinating! Two hours later I tore myself away. 

As I have mentioned many times before, my most cherished shop in Paris is Astier de Villatte on my favourite shopping street, Rue Saint-Honoré. It holds the most wonderful handmade pottery I have ever seen. Their simplicity is what makes them so desirable. Every time I'm in Paris I add to my collection, Alexandre. This time I added four ladybug bowls. 

There is never a trip to Paris when I don't make my way to Notre Dame for a traditional lighting of a candle and prayers for my family and friends. If you have never been to Paris, Notre Dame should be on the very top of your list.

Moving along as the day was swiftly passing by and feeling grateful for the extremely efficient Metro system or all of this running around wouldn't have been possible, I was able to quickly dash into the Modigliani exhibition at the Pinacothèque in Place de la Madeleine. Being an admirer of his work I was completely engrossed. I believe the portrait of Jeanne Hébuterne was starting to feel uncomfortable with me glaring at it with such intensity! The exhibition is on until September 9, 2012. 

On the way back to Hôtel Plaza Athénée, my temporary life of luxury, I slipped into a pâtisserie, Nicolas, and also a marché for the evening's staples. The plan was a night on the town with some friends; however, after seeing my room plans quickly changed: I was entertaining. 

Afterwards, despite my fatigue, I fought so very hard to stay awake and enjoy every possible minute of this remarkable place. Hôtel Plaza Athénée – I will never ever forget you!

The following day I had to move on. It was not such a horrible thing. I was checking in to the very desirable L'Hotel – the previous home of Oscar Wilde! He died in this hotel and as I entered I couldn't help but remember one of his famous last quotes: "My wallpaper and I are fighting a duel to the death. One or other of us has got to go". 

From the moment I was greeted by the purple velvet suited staff, in honor of Mr. Wilde no doubt, I was hooked. The hotel oozes charm and offers an incredibly calming ambiance. My room was full of character and, for lack of a better word, adorable. The lovely scent of their Green & Spring beauty products sealed the deal – another winner!

L'Hotel is located on a quiet, pretty street only steps away from Boulevard Saint-Germain, and one of my favourite lunch spots, Les Deux Magots. 

The afternoon's agenda included a tour with a company called Private Tours Paris. They were taking me on a four-hour tour called Paris Unexplored. Having been to Paris so many times, I wanted to learn something new – which was exactly what I got. Angelo and I got on the minute we met and had great fun driving around the city as I was being educated on the secrets of Paris.

The evening consisted of aperitifs with friends in L'Hotel's intimate lounge and dinner in the lavish dining room. "Please don't hate me for ordering well-done Pigeon," I begged my Parisian friends. I cannot possibly eat it raw! Every dish was a work of edible art and the precious mini-desserts topped it off. 

As another perfect day was coming to an end, my eyes were starting to become heavy and I looked forward to retiring to my dreamy little room. It was now pouring with rain and with my windows wide open I took great pleasure in the sounds of the city as I lay there, reflecting on an amazing 48 hours in Paris.

Though the interior needed some serious TLC, the exterior and its white picket fence sold us within minutes. Before we could blink, we were proud owners of a 104 year-old house with wallpaper that would make a designer's skin crawl.

We closed on the property and then the renovations began. I should rephrase: the madness began. For those who have been through a renovation I'm sure you can empathize. In less than a week we were $20,000 over budget! Ahhhhh! I believe it was exactly at that point when my stomach started to burn and did not let up until all was completed. 

A bit of an eccentric crew was hired, and not by choice. It just turned out that way. Why not? Add a little craziness to the craziness.

Our painter had the appearance of a madman and once he was attached to the house there was no turning back. We tried to “let him go” several times but he continued to just show up—“I have a job to finish!” At one point he even asked if he could move in with his pet Rottweiler in tow in exchange for paint work. After picking up my jaw from the floor, I said “Ah, nope!”

Our project manager had a little attitude with our century-old home and didn’t understand the difference between what was “character” and what was “junk.” Within days he was frustrated with the surprises behind the walls and started to get a little grumpy. My advice to him was, “love the house and it will love you back!”

At one point during demolition he was about to toss the old window trim but thought he had better ask: “is this junk or character?” I snapped, “character!”

What I loved so much about this house was the 10 foot ceilings. The original crown mouldings on the main floor and the original ceiling medallion in the dining room were spectacular—it was love at first sight.

It was amazing that you could actually see these features past the floral wallpaper. And yes, the ceiling was papered too. “Really?” I blurted out when seeing the ceiling for the first time.

It didn’t take long for my precious dining room to turn into a junk yard!

After the ceiling paper was removed—a surprisingly difficult job—we noticed that the ceiling would move and crack when someone walked on the second level. We were immediately informed it was necessary to replace the ceiling—another item not in the budget!

My heart sank. I knew replacing the ceiling meant the medallion had to come down. A plaster specialist was brought in, scaffolding was built up, a large tire was used and held up underneath the medallion so they could cut around it and gently lay the medallion on to the tire which they then slowly brought down and placed on the floor— only to have the crazy crew step on it!

This is precisely when the stress tears started to flow and when our project manager decided it was time to “love the house.” After a bit of a meltdown all was resolved and the finished product was well worth the tears.

We found our table base, an old cow trough from China, in a small town outside of Toronto. Our chairs came from Stacaro.

The mirror was made by a frame-maker down the street. When finished, he grabbed a few friends to help and literally walked it over.

The paint is my favourite white— Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace. In fact, the entire house is painted in Chantilly Lace, thanks to my dear friend Craig, who also swears by the colour and suggested it.    

The living room and foyer were relatively easy. An opening was cut in the front hallway to allow more light into the living room as well as the foyer.

I have spent many hours, probably too many, on our Montauk sofa. It was worth every penny! The pictures above are of trips my husband and I have been on framed in Pottery Barn frames. The extremely soft fluffy pillows are also from Pottery Barn and the light from Union Lighting.

The table is an antique I purchased from a friend and the pictures are mine which were taken in the gardens at the Palais Royal in Paris. The light is from Restoration Hardware.

The steps were also an easy fix involving white risers and refinished wooden treads.

When we bought the house it had four bedrooms and one teeny tiny bathroom. Realizing we needed a second bathroom, especially since my husband spends more time getting ready than I do, we decided to turn the bedroom beside the master bedroom into an ensuite. However, we would convert the teeny bathroom into something a little more eye pleasing.

The little bathroom was completely gutted! 

Add a little marble and subway tiles, and voilà! The chandelier was a wedding gift from my sister and the pedestal came from Gingers in Toronto.

We left the piping in the corner exposed and painted it white, which I feel is now the main feature. Unfortunately I have to credit my friend Craig for this one again, even though I enjoy telling everyone it was my idea.

I loved the length of the hallway and the space to the right before you enter the master bedroom. It is an interesting space that had lots of potential.

I’m an avid reader who owns hundreds of books and not one book case! I know! I have been searching for years and have yet to find the perfect book case. So, I decided to turn the area into book storage.

The next meltdown was when the project manager called me at work to say that while removing the old closet from the master bedroom two dead birds fell out of the wall and we “have no choice but to replace all the walls in the bedroom.” It hurts when you receive information like this. All I saw were dollar signs. This was another piece that was not supposed to be a part of the puzzle!

Down came the walls. Ugh. Stomach hurt.

The size of the master bedroom is perfect. It’s long and narrow. At one end sits our bed, made by my father, and at the other end, our wonderfully efficient Ikea closet system.

Another piece of furniture I am searching for is bedside tables. I cannot for the life of me find what I want! I have a specific look in mind and the restricted size doesn’t help. My designer friend Lynne Knowlton suggested, “Use your books! Geesh, you’ve got enough of them so use them for something!” So there you have it—bedside book tables.

It didn’t take long for the ensuite to materialize. It was exciting watching it come together. The opening was made and the construction of my future haven began.

My bathtub and fixtures came from Amati Bath Centre, the vanity from Restoration Hardware and the beautiful statuario marble from Metric Marble. I don’t hear or think of anything while in this little place. It truly is the most peaceful and relaxing room in our house.

So, in a nutshell, that was our renovation: two solid months of crazy. We survived relatively unscathed—broke, but unscathed. Due to the constant surprises which quickly depleted our renovation fund the kitchen was not done. It has now been over three years and we have finally started on the kitchen! I am thrilled and also crossing my fingers for no tears!

Stay tuned…

So it didn’t surprise me one bit when, while I was walking down rue Saint-Honoré one day, a large glowing red leather bag sitting in a window display stopped me dead in my tracks. Ugh! Yes, please. My eyes scoured the store front, looking for signage. And for the first time I saw the name Moynat. “Well, hello there,” I said to myself. “Oh, I do hope one day you and I will be friends.”

Unfortunately the shop was closed and I moved on; however, a few tweets and emails later a friendship began. I was invited to the House of Moynat for a rare glance into what transpires behind the scenes.

The dapper Monsieur Davin greeted me at the front door and the most captivating tour began. Learning the history of the Moynat brand was fascinating. The shop opened in 1849 and closed in 1976.

Keeping the fundamentals of Moynat the focal point, the team and its brilliant designer, Ramesh Nair, came together for approximately two years to rebrand the house. The concepts behind their new designs were inspired by the originals dating back to 1878. They quietly opened their doors again in December 2011.

The House of Moynat had returned in a most elegant way. Two designs I find intriguing are the men’s Limousine Briefcase and the women’s Pauline bag.

The concave base of the briefcase is derived from the original design of the limousine trunk made for automobiles with rounded roofs in 1902.

And the beautifully curved sides of the stylish Pauline bag were inspired by the Moynat trunks which were individually shaped to fit the rear of automobiles in 1914.

My favourite element of the tour was access into the loft above the boutique. After leaving the store through a small side door, walking up a typical Parisian winding wooden staircase, and passing through the luxurious and secretive sales area for those who like to purchase in private, we ended up outside two big beautiful old blue doors.

As we entered I immediately thought: who couldn’t be at their very best when working in such an environment? With very high dramatic ceilings, crown mouldings dating back to god knows when, antique trunks outlining the perimeters and white crisp walls, it was office excellence!

It was fascinating to see, and ever so gently handle, many of their original trunks dating back to the mid 1800s. If these trunks could talk, oh the stories they could tell! I was in complete awe while reading the old destination stickers plastered all over the well-travelled parcels.

And I will never forget the picnic bicyclette. Oh my, how I would so very much love to own the picnic bicyclette. A customized picnic basket on your very own Moynat bike holding delicate porcelain cups, plates, soft napkins and anything else that would make your picnic so very chic.

Last but not least, the personal cooking station for Chef Yannick Alléno of the glamorous and world famous hotel, Le Meurice. Moynat spent a year working on his idea of a mobile kitchen to be used as a personalized hotel room service. When the four storage components are all packaged up, including a gas stove cook-top and enough personalized dinnerware to host a party, all you will see is a very fine large leather trunk on wheels. Absolutely brilliant!

The founders Pauline Moynat, Octavie and François Coulembier would be proud. I am proud and have only just been introduced to this world-class brand. Thank you Guillaume and Ramesh for providing me with such an incredible insight into the most wonderful world of Moynat.

This section will be the new and improved Quoi de Neuf. Though I adore Paris with all my heart, there are other things to talk about, yes? Yes!

Such as…in the next couple of months I will be introducing a new website. Drum roll, please! 

For all the Italy lovers out there, My Beautiful Florence will focus on the amazing city as well as other parts of this incredible country.  I thoroughly enjoyed putting it together and truly hope that you will enjoy it as well. 

I will be posting pieces from other bloggers, story-tellers, travel enthusiasts, designers and perhaps even an interview here and there with some of my favourite authors. To sum it up: pieces that are worthy of note! 

So let the blogging begin…

Kasia Dietz is a handbag designer based in Paris.  Her bags are unique, fun, gorgeous and practical. She designs them, sews them (or used to, she is far too busy now) and models them! 

Enter your email address in the News Notification box located in the Norma's Blog section and you could own her very popular Red Vintage bag. 

The winner will be chosen on July 18th.

Apparently theft in this sacred place is a common occurence. How horribly sad!

http://jimmorrisonsparis.com/2012/06/14/a-dire-situation-for-pere-lachaise/

I have to give credit to Kerrin Rousset. While reading her blog, my eyes feasted on the most heavenly piece of dessert I had ever seen! Surely, this was the crème de la crème of desserts. The tarte au citron meringuée looked ridiculously good. On my next trip to Paris I was going to find out how good.

The plan was that, at some point during my few days in Paris, I would make my way to ‘the tarte’.

Private Tours was bringing me around the city and educating me on the wonderful little secrets of Paris when I started to get hungry. I conveniently slipped in to conversation that there was a lemon meringue pie at a café in the Marais that I had to try. In my woe-is-me, sweet, manipulating tone I continued to say that I just didn’t know how I was going to fit it in to my busy schedule.

“What do you mean you have to try a pie? What pie? Why a pie?” asked my tour guide in his lovely, thick Italian-French accent. With a mischievous grin, and realizing it was working, I gave him a bit of background and a brief description. He quickly turned the car around. We were headed for the Marais. “We will try the pie now!”.

In hindsight, we should have asked for a corner seat. But no, instead of scheming for a bit of privacy, we positioned ourselves right in the middle of the café. In doing so, and with my ladylikeness left back in the vehicle, many people witnessed the assault. Wow! What a dreamy pile of sugar and lemon: a ten out of ten in my book.

Situated in the Marais district, ‘Le Loir dans la Théière’ has an impressive supply of desserts which will leave you with such a sugar-high you’ll be dashing around the city working it off in no time. At least that is what I told myself… as I hopped back into the car.

The gorging continued. Hôtel Daniel invited me for tea and I had to think about it for approximately one second, “Yes, I am coming!”.

From the images I had seen on their website I was somewhat prepared for what to expect; however, upon walking through the front door I was immediately hit by its charm. “It’s beautiful!” I announced to anyone who was listening.

After a brief tour of the hotel, Antoinette and I sat down for tea. With the previous day’s pie event already out of my mind, I placed the napkin on my lap and prepared for a civilized feast.

The little desserts, provided by star pastry chef Sébastien Gaudard, were all lined up on a tray in front of me. With my manners intact I tried several – a conveyor belt would have been most convenient.

After devouring wonderful mini-sandwiches, scones and other delicacies my tummy was at full capacity, yet again. However, this time I did walk it off … in heels for 40 minutes all the way back to my hotel. A Parisian conquest indeed!

Ordering a butter and sugar crèpe while traversing the Jardin des Tuileries the following day probably wasn’t necessary – but I’m so glad I did. Stopping by a candy stand on my way back to the hotel probably wasn’t necessary either – but I just love the sugar coated, marshmallow-textured strawberries. And it was great fun baking my very own macarons at La Cuisine!

After returning home it was a no-brainer to write about finding the perfect desserts in Paris. The original idea was to write about cycling around the many arrondissements. Next time, maybe. Then again, probably not. Food is far more fun!

It was February 2008 when I decided to treat my mother to the most beautiful hotel in the world. It didn’t take long for me to decide on Ritz Paris. So, perhaps the blame should be put on them!

With everything from precious miniature desserts left on our fireplace mantel to ultra-luxurious pink towels in our bathroom, our beautifully decorated room left us acting like two girls that could hardly contain their excitement. We were literally just short of jumping up and down on our beds.

But in the end it wasn’t just about the luxurious finishes. The hotel's history and surroundings were just as appealing. Bar Hemingway is nestled in the back corner of the hotel, named after famed author Ernest Hemingway, for whom it was a favourite drink joint. And the most desirable: the Coco Chanel Suite, available for the lucky few who can afford such extravagance. Imagine staying where Coco stayed!

My friend Craig surely hasn’t helped my addiction—he has the same fascination with hotels. “How can you not experience George V?” he asked. After fibbing just a wee bit on the rate, I convinced my husband to book a night at George V.

Turning on to avenue George V, pulling up to all those wonderfully-garbed smiling doormen, exiting the taxi and entering through the magical iron and glass front doors: it was all so exciting. The anticipation of staying at the George V! My God, how could I not scream? I held back, stayed calm and checked in like a big girl.

It only got better the next morning over breakfast, with dining and people-watching in the elegant La Galerie. The vibrant colours, lavish and warm furniture, and that carpet! Taking it all in over a plate of lemon ricotta pancakes, fresh fruit, and my very own precious silver pot of coffee made the experience as close to perfection as it’s going to get.

It was at Le Meurice where I had the room-upgrade surprise of a lifetime. While checking in the receptionist looked at me, and with a sparkle in his eyes said, “Oh madame, you are going to love your room.” “What? Who, me?” My imaginary tail was wagging!

After finishing up at the front desk he escorted me to my room. He unlocked a large ornate suite entrance door and we went in. At first I was only focused on the foyer and long hallway lined with beautiful built-in closets. We continued along and I gasped. The Presidential Suite! It was the largest hotel room I have ever seen. And it was mine; all mine for one entire night. 

Facing the Tuileries garden, Le Meurice sits proud. Any hotel situated close to the Tuileries garden will automatically be a favourite of mine, but on top of the location this hotel has a real wow factor. You are hit with the opulence the minute you walk through the front doors. And Le Bar 228! If I had all the money in the world this lounge would belong to me. I would carve it out of the Le Meurice, wrap it up and send it home. Well done Philippe Starck!

In the end it doesn’t matter where you stay in Paris. Nonetheless, if you can stomach the price of just one night at one of these amazing hotels, it will be an experience you will never forget.

She has won the ever-so-soft scarf from UPPER east Cashmere in Paris.

Stay tuned for my next giveaway scheduled for July!

Subscribe to my website and you could win a 100% cashmere scarf worth over 300 Euros from UPPER east Cashmere in Paris. 

Tucked away in an alley off of rue de Rivoli, and behind a big old heavy door, sits cashmere Heaven.

What I love about this boutique is its exclusivity. You will need an appointment to visit. I wondered if it would be intimidating to have the entire boutique to yourself. It wasn't in the slightest. Emmanuelle and her sister Alexandra are wonderful, friendly and pressure-free.

The cashmere is gorgeous and feels like butter. It took me about two minutes before I picked the most amazing scarf—the Jane.  I wear it ALL the time!

And I would love for you to have one too! 

Enter your email address in the News Notification box located in the Quoi de Neuf section and you could be wearing a Jane as well.

The winner will be chosen on May 10th.

Like so many others, the Christmas season affected my waistline and now I am truly paying for it. 

January was freezing. How could I simultaneously starve myself and be cold? So, the gorging continued well into February. It wasn’t until mid-February that I finally put my fat foot down. And I’ve been quite disciplined ever since. 

Why is it that when you deprive yourself of something you want it more than ever? I don’t cook or bake; my husband is the “chef” in our household. However, recently I have been craving nothing but desserts!

I am googling pastries, reading Joanne's food blog, signing up for La Cuisine macaron and Le Dolci cupcake baking classes and searching for recipes online that I have zero intention of following through on. I even started to salivate when I saw pictures of pie pops! A concept I didn’t know existed until yesterday.

But it was while I was reading Kerrin Rousset’s blog that my eyes feasted on the most heavenly piece of dessert I have ever seen! My eyes popped right out of my head. Surely, this is the crème de la crème of desserts.

The Tarte au Citron Meringuée comes from a café in the Marais district, Le Loir dans la Théière. It looks ridiculously good and I am going to find out how good! 

In May, I will be back in Paris. The first thing I am going to do is drag one of my friends to Le Loir dans la Théière and break my disciplined diet! I cannot possibly pig-out by myself—in public anyway.