Une femme d'un certain age

Going with the flow...

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Sun, 27 May 2012 19:05:00 +0000

Looking toward Montmartre from the top of the Pompidou

We're at the midway point of a long weekend, and as it seems to happen with increasing frequency, things aren't going as planned. We're all fighting off colds, and petit monsieur is having one of his rough days, where his behavioral issues and mood swings make us hesitant to take him out in public.

For those who don't know, we have a son with special needs: mild cerebral palsy, seizure disorder (mostly well controlled with medication, thankfully), and severe cognitive impairment. He's a sweet kid usually, but adolescence and the physiological changes sometimes play havoc with his nature; his moods can turn on a dime and he can become very difficult and aggressive. We've been working with behaviorists for years, which does help to some degree, but we're coming to the realization that for his own and others' safety, we may need to fight chemistry with chemistry.

So some weekends we're more housebound than others, and for today at least, the rest of this one is looking to be one of them. I'm eyeing my closet with intent: maybe a few more of the Bad Boys headed for ~~reform school~~ the donation pile, a bit of organizing and getting ready for warmer weather.

People who haven't lived here often have a misconception about LA weather. It really isn't hot here all of the time, or even most of the time. Especially near the coast, it stays relatively cool until well into the summer, and most years we're bundled up in sweaters or jackets to watch July 4th fireworks. But I'm not complaining! Dressing for work in hot weather is a challenge I don't relish.

And retailers aren't helping much. Trying to find good quality summer weight workwear has become a mission of sorts, and at times feels like looking for Waldo. Among the racks and shelves of shorts, clamdiggers, sundresses, sheer floaty tops, barely-there sandals, beachwear, neon colors, stands a lone linen jacket in a forlorn beige color. Sure, there are suits and "career wear" stores and sections, but for those of us who want something in between Corporate Drag™ and Weekend in Malibu, the pickings are slim. But as I find pieces with possibilities, I will share. (And I do have a few Karina dresses now that should be great summer office wear options.)

The cup of tea I was sipping as I wrote this seems to have worked a bit of magic and my throat is now feeling a bit better. Time to tackle the closet...

Hope your weekend is going well!
~

Bad Boys

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

What is the hold they have over us? We know they aren't good for us and yet we want them. We know that as fun and exciting as they might be, in the long run they'll let us down. We know better, but they still seduce us.

Men, that's another story. I'm talking about those Mr. Wrong wardrobe items that promise so much and ultimately don't deliver on their grandiose declarations of moonlight and "you and me, the world's our oyster, baby." They mock us from the darkest recesses of our closets like the sullen guy in the back of English lit class with the dark wavy hair and dreamboat eyes and the faint (or not-so-faint) aroma of pot and cigarettes. "You and me against the world" soon becomes "It's all your fault" and we blame ourselves, our bodies for their failures. We all have them, I think, those inexplicable, self-destructive sartorial attractions.

I like to believe I've evolved emotionally, but they can still sometimes tug at my heartstrings.

Boxy Bouclé Jackets

These still catch my eye, and tempt me to try them, "just this once." The song on the radio croons of glamour and an insouciante sophistication. But I know now to walk away, that some other woman's shape will have to tame this beast, that I'll only end up in an apron, standing in an empty driveway scanning the horizon and wringing my dishpan hands.

Heels

Specifically the kind of dressy, classic, stiletto heel that looks so great but that I find I can no longer walk in, and that no longer fit with my style or lifestyle. I have a couple pair that I hang onto "just in case" but unless my life takes a sudden turn down the red carpet, they will rarely see the light of day.

Black

This Bad Boy has been the most difficult to kick to the curb. I love the mystery, the aura of cool, the slight frisson of subversiveness that I associate with black. Plus, it's easy. A wardrobe of black lives in the moment, at the ready, without demanding a lot of complicated and long-term choices. Hop on the bike and go, where ever the road takes you. (But I caught a glimpse of myself yesterday in the mirror, looking tired and heavy and knew this particular Bad Boy was taking a toll.)

The Drab and Lifeless Cardigan

This Bad Boy may seem very deep and solid and soulful at first, but you eventually realize he's probably clinically depressed and maybe more than a little bit self-involved, and is just dragging you down with him. Time to get away from this knit equivalent of a heavy sigh.

Do you have any Bad Boys still lurking in your closet? What keeps you holding on to them?
~

Fake It Till You Make It...Chanel-esque Jackets

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Tue, 22 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

For many years, I had a deep and abiding infatuation with Chanel jackets. The real deal was exponentially out of my price range, even second-hand from ebay. So I was frequently on the lookout for what I referred to as "Chanel-esque" jackets from mid-priced lines, until I finally figured out that this often boxy style of jacket just doesn't suit me. But I still can appreciate the look and the effort. And yes, I know that the materials, the construction, the fit will be a universe away from the original.

I happened to stop by our local Zara a few days ago, and it seemed that there were Chanel-esque jackets everywhere I turned.

Blazer w/sequins, $159

This one has studs. Multicolored blazer, $189.

The colors in this one are very pretty in person. Fantasy Blazer, $159.

This one is really cool with the gold pyramid studs, but the shoulder pads were too much for me.
Fantasy Studded Blazer, $159.

Another option in a pretty color. Fantasy Fabric Blazer, $129.

They have several more options; you can see all jackets here.

J.Crew also has thrown their bouclé'd sleeve into the ring.

Plaid bouclé tweed jacket, $268

At a higher price point, I'd bet Lafayette 148 will deliver a bit more quality and fit:

Ravello Bouclé Tressel jacket, $648

Pampano Novelty Embellished Jacket, $598

Trifecta Bouclé Palermo Jacket, $698

This style of jacket is best suited to those with more boyish, or at least small-busted silhouettes. But if bouclé makes your heart beat faster, there are lots of options available right now at a range of price points.

Monday Miscellany

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Mon, 21 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

This week's Fashion Flash roundup is hosted by Jackie at Aging Backwards. Everything from superfoods to super makeup for summer is included this week, well worth checking out!

Maybe this is cheating just a little bit for Visible Monday, but I was so thrilled to finally be able to make time for a pedicure and pull out the sandals for the lovely weather we had this weekend! Visible Toes, yay! (Color is Essie "Escapades.")

Une femme recommends:
Under the heading of "Inexpensive But Effective," I've been massaging a bit of Aquaphor ointment into my cuticles nightly, and it works just as well as pricier cuticle creams.

Other uses for Aquaphor: soothing irritated skin, preventing winter chapping, softening cracked and dry heels. I'm never without a tube of this around the house.

Hope your week is off to a great start!
~

Be the sound of higher love today...

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Fri, 18 May 2012 13:09:00 +0000

I was sorry to hear of Donna Summer's passing. I was mostly indifferent to her breathy, moaning disco hits from a musical standpoint (though I did enjoy dancing to them back in the day), but I'll never forget the first time I heard this song. It gave me goosebumps and still does. This is one of those rare instances where I like the cover of a song as well as the original (by Jon Anderson and Vangelis). I'm not a religious person, but this song touches the spiritual part of me, the part that says we're all connected in some way.

A co-worker was telling me that in the last few decades Donna Summer had many struggles with substance abuse, and conflicts with her faith vs. the sexy disco diva image that put her on the map, and was never able to get any traction with performing the kind of music that she wanted to. That's sad. It's a certain kind of hell, I guess when your inner and outer selves are in conflict. I hope she's at peace now.
~

Paris: Tidbits, Gifts, and Minimizing Jet Lag

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Thu, 17 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

My two new favorite French words are "bougie" and "pamplemousse."

"Bougie" means candle. "Pamplemousse" is grapefruit, and it seems to be A Thing right now in France. Pamplemousse was a popular ingredient in dishes, sauces and desserts at several restaurants we tried, and seems to be a popular ingredient in various fragranced items as well including lotions and "bougies."

We tried several new restaurants this time, but agreed that our favorite (in Paris) was Jamin, where we dined our first night after arriving in France. We were looking for something that was tasty, but not too heavy or rich, and with a low-key ambience. I began with the Tartare d'ecrivesses (crayfish tartare) which was phenomenal, and followed up with a daily special of cod for the plat principal. The meal was exactly what we'd hoped, and we will definitely go back again on our next visit.

But one of our favorite meals was an impromptu late lunch at a "tabac" sidewalk cafe, sitting underneath an awning sipping wine and nibbling sandwiches during a rainstorm. It was such a pleasant and quintessential Parisian experience. It was one of those times where you are acutely aware, even as you are in the moment, that life just doesn't get any better than this.

If you want to shop on a Sunday, you'll be out of luck (as most shops are closed) unless you head over to the Marais, where Sunday afternoons are now quite a scene.

And if you want to see one of the more popular expositions (temporary exhibits) at museums, check the museum website and purchase tickets in advance online if you can. Some of the lines can be quite long without advance tickets, and you're in Paris...who wants to spend precious time standing in line??? (Karen picked up tickets in advance for the fabulous Matisse exhibit at the Pompidou and we had a wonderful time enjoying brunch, viewing the exhibit and wandering in the Marais afterward. Thanks, Karen!)

Gifts
We always try to bring back gifts for family and those who are "holding down the fort" while we are away. Over time, we've hit upon some items that travel well and seem to be appreciated across a broad taste and demographic spectrum, without resorting to Eiffel Tower keychains.

This might be difficult to get home intact, unless well packaged.

Chocolat: In Paris, you can't throw a rock without hitting an outstanding chocolatier. We've found that most offer smallish tins or boxes of chocolats or flavored amandes that travel well and will be greeted with "oohs and aahs" from the recipients. Note: we always carry-on our chocolates rather than checking in luggage. We've never had a problem with airport security.

Fragonard: in addition to fragrances and lovely scented soaps, we find the Fragonard boutiques have a wonderful selection of decorative household items and accessories (love their embroidered shoe bags and small pouches!). For young women on your list, they have a selection of small solid fragrances in tins for about 10€.

Maille moutardes: any cooks or gourmands on your list? Then stop by the Maille boutique near the Madeleine, just off Rue Royale for some exquisite mustards, vinegars, aiolis, and various condiments. You can even get mustards "on tap!"

They will pack your purchases for travel, but we always use one of our wine skins for bringing these jars home (in checked luggage, as they do count as liquids).

Re-usable bags/totes: my favorites are the organic cotton reusable grocery totes from La Grande Epicerie at Bon Marché, but many shops now sell inexpensive reusable bags and totes with a uniquely Parisian flavor.

Jet Lag
Traveling to Paris from the West coast of the US or Canada means crossing 8 or 9 time zones, depending on time of year. Sometimes a bit (or a lot) of jet lag is inevitable, but these are some of the tactics I employ that do seem to help.

Set your watch to your destination time zone as soon as you board the plane. This is probably more of a mental aide than anything, but I find it does help.
If you can manage even 2-3 hours of sleep on the flight over, it will help.
Eat very lightly on the flight, and if you can't skip alcohol altogether, limit yourself to 1 drink.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Drink as much water as you can manage.
Darjeeling tea. I don't know why, but a cup or two toward the end of the flight or soon after arrival really helps. I'm normally a coffee drinker, but in transit I skip the coffee and have tea instead.
And here's the most important thing: once you arrive, drop your bags at the hotel and get out and walk around in the fresh air as much as you can for as long as you can. More than anything, I really do find this helps reset my body clock.
Try to stay up your first day until normal bedtime in your new time zone. If you can't do that, keep a nap to 30-45 minutes, tops. Then get out and move around some more.
Don't fret too much if your sleep patterns are disrupted. If you wake up at 2am and can't fall back to sleep, read a book for a while, take a bath, anything relaxing, even if it doesn't put you back to sleep right away. And when morning comes, get up, get outside and walk around some more.
Don't schedule a full day your first day or two. If it's your first visit to Paris, day 2 is an excellent time to just be a tourist and hop the double decker sightseeing bus.

Do you have favorite gift items to bring home from your travels, or tips for minimizing jet lag? Please do share!

Paris At Random

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Wed, 16 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

View from our table at dinner. I love sidewalk dining in Paris!

Travel Wardrobe Recap

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Tue, 15 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

After a long flight (12+ hours in the air total) an early evening stroll through Paris was just the thing.

Blustery Sunday morning in Jardin de Tuileries

Above are pictures taken on our first and last days in Paris. Le monsieur snapped a few more of me in between but I'm wearing the same thing in all: slim pants (skinny jeans or ponte knit), boots, grey scarf, black leather jacket (and two or three layers of tops underneath). It was cool and intermittently rainy in Paris, and I was glad I'd swapped out my lightweight coat for my leather jacket at the very last moment after one final glance at the extended weather forecast.

In Provence, it was a bit drier and a few degrees warmer, so was able to shed the jacket periodically.

At the seaside in Cassis

Market day in Aix-en-Provence

Overall, I was very pleased with how my capsule travel wardrobe worked out.

What worked:

The Naot mid-calf boots were a good choice; coordinated with all of my pants whether worn inside or out and they never gave my feet cause for complaint.
I always had something to wear that was appropriate for the weather and venue, even if that meant wearing some pieces almost daily.
I appreciated having a small and relatively lightweight suitcase while in transit (especially navigating up and down a narrow flight of curving stairs on the TGV train) and realized one more advantage to packing light when we arrived back home: less to unpack!

I did "sink laundry" for a few items twice on the trip and almost everything dried overnight, even with the cool and damp conditions.

Didn't wear:

the polka dot dress. I wore the other one (above) on our second day in Provence, but the weather didn't cooperate past that point. Too chilly/windy/damp even with leggings.
most of the jewelry.

Wish I'd brought: another 1 or 2 mid-weight scarves with some color.

In retrospect, I do think this was my most workable and best travel capsule wardrobe yet.
~

Monday Miscellany

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Mon, 14 May 2012 01:22:00 +0000

It's Fashion Flash Monday! This week's gathering of the best of style, health and beauty for les femmes d'un certain âge is hosted by FabOverFifty.

Yesterday morning I was able to snap a few shots modeling my new jacket before the sun started playing peek-a-boo and messing with my light. I'm still getting the hang of posing AND looking at the camera AND smiling all at the right time, but it helps to just take dozens of pictures at a time!

This scarf was a gift a few years back from a co-worker. I love how it complements the jacket, and how the gold threads pick up the color of the brass zippers.

Jacket: Zadig & Voltaire
Tee: Eileen Fisher, here.
Jeans: 7 for All Mankind, similar.
Boots: Paul Green, here.

It's been quite a while since I've been able to join up with Visible Monday over at Not Dead Yet Style. Hi Patti! (waves)

And, in the garden..

Doesn't she remind you of a ballet dancer in a floaty skirt?

Remember the vine from last week that was getting ready to bloom?

Stunning, aren't they?

I did manage to get my herb garden mostly planted. Still looking for some dill weed perhaps, or tarragon to add to the mix. I decided to forego tomatoes this year, as the results just haven't been worth the effort, but am taking another stab at cilantro.

The marigolds are supposed to deter aphids and other munching bugs. Yarrow too (in background), is rumored to discourage certain garden pests.

Do you have any natural or organic garden pest control methods to recommend?

Hope your week is off to a great start!
~

Happy Mothers' Day!

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Sat, 12 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Pivoines from Paris, from me to you

(Yes, I've posted this a day early, intended to catch those of you in earlier time zones, or who may be offline tomorrow.)

I wish you a lovely day, spent in whatever way is most satisfying to you.

Sadly, I'm the last Mom left in our immediate family. I told le monsieur I don't want any flowers or gifts or to go out to brunch; I just want a few hours to clear and re-plant my herb garden for the season, and maybe throw something on the grill for dinner. I don't want to fight the crowds or make a big production. Easy-peasy sounds really good about now.

Happy Mothers' Day to you!
~

Shopping in Paris: it's all in the details

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Thu, 10 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Unlike prior visits to Paris when I'd targeted specific items or stores, this time I did not arrive with a shopping list in mind aside from the intention to stock up on my favorite Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler moisturizer. (Both day and night versions this time.) Most of my best Paris purchases have been things I've stumbled across, rather than items I was specifically looking for, so my only plan was to keep eyes and mind open.

After a fabulous lunch with Tish from A Femme d'un Certain Age, we set out for the nearest Monoprix in search of skin care, and some fun, inexpensive baubles. I scooped a few jars of Eucerin into my basket, then we turned our attention toward the accessories racks, where I found two nice lightweight cotton scarves for summer (two on the left) at 10€ each. (Striped scarf on right, also cotton, from Printemps.)

Can see from this picture I need to steam these out a bit...

Coral is a favorite color of mine, and seems to be hot this spring. We also spent some time perusing the new M & S on the Champs Élysées, but didn't see anything inspiring enough to try on. The line for the food items went halfway out to the door!

The Arche store where I'd shopped on a previous visit was no longer where I remembered, and we now have a large Gerard Darel boutique in our local Bloomingdales, so it didn't seem worth a stop. I did pick up another lace scarf at Eric Bompard (this time in a light iris purple) but I have more cardigans and sweaters than I need at the moment, so didn't spend much time there. The bags at Lancel failed to inspire this time.

The next morning le monsieur and I decided to take a stroll along rue St. Honoré/Faubourg St. Honoré to pick up some gifts to bring home from the Fragonard boutique and some of the chocolatiers along that route. I was busy checking out window displays to snap and share, when these boots in the window of Zadig & Voltaire caught my eye..

I'd been aware of Zadig & Voltaire as a brand with a well-honed, very French aesthetic, but I'll admit I never paid much attention before as they seemed a bit too twenty-something-Rocker-Chick with their skulls, sequins and short short skirts. But these boots were calling my name, so into the boutique we went...where I then proceeded to try on several items of clothing, many of which (to my surprise) fit me and were actually pieces I'd wear in a heartbeat.

I'd initially picked out a different jacket to try, which didn't ring any chimes once I put it on, but the (very savvy) saleswoman had also brought out this one (above). I loved the color right off, and once I slipped it on, I didn't want to take it off. The leather is very light and soft, Like Buttah™. It fits beautifully, is well made and the details were the icing on the cake. Le monsieur also gave two thumbs up.

I mentioned above that the saleswoman was very savvy and really knew her merchandise. She not only suggested pieces, but also offered ideas on how to arrange and style them. Before she gave me anything to try on, she pointed out the design details. Like the jacket, almost every piece she brought out didn't look like much on the hanger, but looked great on une femme's form.

This top, for example, is a piece that I never would have considered, had I just been flipping through the racks. She had me try it layered with a second one in a different color, which created an interesting effect. I ultimately decided on just this one (which I'll wear with a tank or camisole underneath), but again, I love the details that take this a notch above just another knit tunic.

Pointelle detail on the back

It's a lovely lightweight piece that will be great for summer, and also works as an interesting mid-layer under jackets.

Color is actually a bit softer than it appears here

I also selected this scarf in a soft, lightweight wool, which looks great with the jacket, and just about everything else in my closet as it turns out. The brass-colored paillettes along the edges pick up the brass in the jacket zippers. It's a three-season piece that I'll put away for summer and be delighted to wear again come fall.

This was such a satisfying shopping experience, not only because of the fabulous and unique additions to my wardrobe, but also because I felt as though I'd learned something. I've been trying to train my eye to be more discriminating and pay closer attention to details. I've tried to identify and emulate specific elements of French women's style that I admire, but still it often feels like a watching a beautiful movie in a foreign language without subtitles; I get the gist but am missing substantial portions of the dialog. Many of the stylings and suggestions from the Z&V saleswoman were things I wouldn't have seen or thought of myself, and gave me a little bit of insight into how French women approach style. They don't just throw on a bunch of pieces that go together, but think about how they play off each other, even in the simplest ensembles. Selecting the color of a top to pick up the color of the jacket zippers (not just the leather), layering two tops and arranging the neckline just so (yet it looks nonchalant), folding a cuff to create a bit of architecture...those are the kind of insights that many French women seem to acquire as a birthright, a sort of sartorial terroir that is missing from my own cultural experience.

Et les bottes? Oui, those too. In spite of the skull. (They are super comfortable!)

I'm thinking of giving my new little friend a name.

Have you had a shopping experience that was also a learning experience?

Program notes: modeling shots next week if time allows! Also, I'm working on a post for next week featuring ideas for gifts to bring home from Paris, stay tuned...

Dans le jardin

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Tue, 08 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

May is busting out all over, and almost everything blooming right now seems to be yellow or some shade of purple.

Yarrow

We planted these vines in 2010; it's the first time they've bloomed and I'm looking forward to seeing what the flowers look like.

Visitors from the neighbor's yard

Salvia, with lavender in background

Luff these 11/10 and so do the hummingbirds

Fashion Flash Monday

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Yes, it's Fashion Flash Monday, and une femme is delighted to be hosting the party! The weather is warming up, so picture a gathering of friends around this table.

Source: brabournefarm.blogspot.com via une_femme on Pinterest

We'll start with a lovely chilled rosé from Provence, and some tapas. To join the party, just click on the links below.

Wondering what to wear to hide unattractive legs? The Glam Gals have some flattering solutions at Fabulous After 40.

Temperatures are already climbing nationwide. Are you ready for the approaching summer? Jackie Silver at AgingBackwards.com has the inside scoop on the best sunscreen.

Looking to give mom a fragrance for Mother's Day? Fab Over Forty shares her 5 favorites.

Healthy brownies? Check out female fat loss expert, Shawna K's recipe for black bean brownies. Delish!

50 Things Every Woman Should Have and Know when she turns 50, according to Geri, founder of FabOverFifty. Do you agree with her list?

Feeling cranky, fat, and irritable? Is it affecting your relationship? Staness, creator of the Menopause Makeover, wrote a letter to her husband that eased the frustration and saved her marriage. Today she is sharing it so you can use it too.

TLC’s Stacy London of What Not to Wear creates a new series on plus size shopping along with a new venture which offers a personal styling service for women of all shapes and sizes.

Deb of No-Nonsense Beauty Blog looks at the beauty of apples.

Have a lovely week!
~

Wherein une femme seeks yogurt and balance

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Sat, 05 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

On our visit to France, every petit dejeuner, whether at our B&B in Aix or hotels in Paris or in a café included fresh fruit and little jars of natural yogurt. It was such a satisfying option, and a nice counterpoint to the often larger and richer meals we enjoyed the rest of the day.

Each time we return home from visits to France, it takes only until we're in the taxi on the way home from the airport to begin missing the great food. But this time, even more than the baguettes, the croissants, the butter, I am missing the yogurt.

This trip has really highlighted just how out of balance our own lives are, especially when it comes to food and meals. Most mornings feel so rushed, I often dash out of the house having ingested nothing but a cup of black coffee, and most days I eat lunch at my desk. Evenings we don't do much better; from the moment I arrive home from work I'm looking after a teenager with special needs, and trying to blog, read email (work and personal), do laundry, etc. and le monsieur is often working late. So dinner, too, becomes an afterthought, something to be cobbled together usually after our son goes to bed. For people who enjoy good food and eating as much as we do, we certainly haven't made it a priority, except on vacation!

In other ways too, our life often feels so rushed and overfull. Some of this may just be a culmination of the last several months, and adding a major home improvement project and vacation planning to the mix. But I also think that rushing through life can be an easy (bad) habit to acquire, and a tough one to break.

So this week I've begun re-evaluating some routines and taking some baby steps to restore a bit of the balance I crave and to take better care of myself, both nutritionally and mentally. I'm setting aside two lunch hours weekly to grocery shop for fresh foods (we have a fridge in the office where I can stash perishables for the afternoon). I've begun cutting up some fresh fruit for us each morning, and hunted down some plain, whole milk yogurt to top it. (No mean feat in LA, home of non-fat everything!)

A second small step is spending a little less time on the internet. No, I'm not abandoning blogging, it's a far too satisfying part of my life to set aside! But, as much as this pains me to do so, I'm backing off on my intention to respond to every comment (which I've failed to do anyway for the last few weeks). I love reading your comments, and do read every one. And if you have specific questions I will respond to those, and all emails received. I've been a lackadaisical tweeter, and that isn't going to change. ;-) I'm also trying to be mindful of and avoid aimless web surfing and e-window-shopping.

Life is short. What could be more important than slowing down to see, taste, smell a bit more of it?

Do you sometimes struggle to achieve balance? Does making time for self-care sometimes take a back seat to life's other demands? Is there anything in particular that reminds you to hit the "reset" button when life gets too hectic?
~

Les Parisiennes

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Thu, 03 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Family out for a Saturday stroll, rain notwithstanding

I'll readily admit, between the weather and our itinerary, it was a considerable challenge to snap street style shots during this visit.For the first couple of days I worried that I'd have pictures of nothing but trenches and umbrellas! But finally on Sunday afternoon the sun came out, I parked us at a nice café for people watching, ordered un verre du vin (just for cover, mind you) and was able to get a few decent shots of les Parisiennes d'un certain age in their natural habitat, April 2012.

Parisian women still love their black. They'll sometimes add a colored accessory, and often mix black and brown (saw countless women in black pants/brown shoes). Black leather pants were also spotted a few times, worn by our demographic, but I wasn't quick enough to get pictures.

Saw more than a few versions of this shiny style of raincoat.

I did not see that many women wearing wedges.

Browns and beiges were other neutrals of choice.

I was pretending to take a picture of the bridge, and this lovely woman in the grey ponytail (the actual intended subject) tried to dodge out of the way. I covet her jacket.

Formidable!

This woman all in browns, rusts and beiges had a 70's/ Annie Hall thing going on, right down to the little round John Lennon glasses.

And then there were those women who didn't shy away from a bit more color...

Because the weather was so unseasonably cool and wet, I'm sure that a lot of what I saw was a dragging out of the winter wardrobe, maybe with a spring scarf or accessory thrown into the mix. Skinny jeans/pants still seem to reign supreme, though I did see several women in a *slightly* wider straight leg or subtle boot cut pant. Skirts are almost always knee length or above, regardless of age. Note how sleek *most* of the shoes are. Nothing with towering heels or platforms. Bags are slightly smaller and more structured than in past seasons. Two handle satchel and tote styles dominate. One still doesn't see a lot of conspicuous jewelry, makeup or "done" hair.

I do wish I'd been able to get more photos. I guess we'll have to go back again next year!
~

Un jour parfait: Provence

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Wed, 02 May 2012 03:26:00 +0000

Vineyards and olive groves, a quintessential Provençal scene

We experienced so many days on our trip to Paris and Provence that could be described as perfect, but for this month's By Invitation Only installment, I'd like to recap the amazing day we enjoyed in the countryside of Provence, on a guided tour by the lovely people at WineInProvence.

We were picked up at our B&B in Aix-en-Provence bright and early. Our guides had mapped out a custom tour for us, based on our desire to visit both some wineries and historic and scenic villages in the area.

We began the day with a lovely stroll through the vineyards and olive groves at the first winery, Mas Sainte Berthe.

Provence is known for its fantastic Rosé wines, and the one we tasted here was no exception.

Looking up the hill toward the ancient fortress of Les Baux, which was to be our next stop.

Situated on high, rocky ground, along the medieval trade route between Spain and Italy, the fortress at Les Baux was an oft-contested bit of real estate. The Lords of Les Baux had a reputation as some nasty dudes, who believed they were direct descendants of Balthazar, one of the Three Kings.

The village nestled into the hillside below the fortress is charming and picturesque. You can also tour the fortress/castle ruins, which we decided to do. Our timing was perfect; we were able to watch the trebuchet launch! The ruins themselves are fascinating, and provide some spectacular views.

View from the battlements of the castle ruins

But don't run afoul of the local gendarmes or they might toss you over the wall!

Looking down into the village from the fortress

After exploring the castle ruins, we'd worked up a good appetite and were ready for a Provençal lunch. Though the day was a bit cool and windy, the terrace at L'Estangnol was sheltered and sunny. And the food....oh my yes.

Entrée: Moules!!

Dejeunner: plat principal. The seafood in Provence is wonderful!

Then a stroll around St. Remy....the chestnuts in bloom were lovely, but made me sneeze.

After St. Remy, we had time to visit one more winery, this time Chateau Romanin. The winery/caves were built right into the mountain. This vineyard/winery also employs biodynamic practices. All of the wines we tasted here were good, but we liked the reds especially.

A bit dark but you can see the aging casks below, and the framework of the main building molded right into the mountain rock.

We were returned to our hotel in time to relax, freshen up and make our dinner reservations at Le Formal in Aix, where we enjoyed another spectacular meal to cap off the day.

Do check out By Invitation Only at Splenderosa for a roundup of perfect days, both real and imagined.

Au revoir, Paris!

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Finalement, a break in the weather!

If you're reading this on Monday, we're already somewhere over the Atlantic, on our way home. Our visits are never long enough!

But I have many more photos to share with you (including, I hope, some street style spy snaps of quelques femmes d'un certain age), so we can savor Paris together for a while longer.

In the meantime, check out Fashion Flash Monday at Fab Over Forty!

À bientot!
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Paris: Shop Windows

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 18:07:00 +0000

We spent most of Saturday "licking the windows" (and doing a little bit of actual shopping too...in addition to picking up some gifts to bring home, I did some serious damage in Zadig & Voltaire). Apologies for the glare on the windows, but I just couldn't figure out how to mitigate.

These pivoines took my breath away

A different florist, equally as gorgeous

Ladurée

Maille mustards, a must-stop for us each trip

Hermès

Hermès encore

Yes, those are crocodile Birkins. Almost obscene, aren't they?

Glassware at Hermès

Don't remember the name of this chocolatier, but they had a tribute to Calder theme going.

Wild 'n' crazy lunettes

And some shoes from the Wild Child herself, Sonia Rykiel

Can you believe it? Those rhinestone-studded brogues are actually Church's!

Roger Vivier

Stunning umbrellas and gloves...

Clever teapots

Debauve & Gallais, the oldest chocolatier in Paris

At another chocolatier, Paul Hevin.

And on that tantalizing note, we're off to dinner!

Edited to add:

This one was actually in Aix-en-Provence, but so clever I wanted to show you.

(Note the name of the store in the reflection: Jules & Jim.)
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Paris: Stormy Weather

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 20:48:00 +0000

Notre Dame, sunset

We left the beginnings of a Mistal in Provence (cool, strong wind) and arrived in Paris to even cooler temperatures, a few downpours and a clap or two of thunder.

I'll recap more of our Provence adventures later, but one of the best parts of our visit was being able to meet Leslie of La Fourchette s'est Emballée.

She is every bit as charming, witty, fun and chic as you'd imagine from reading her blog!

Tomorrow I am committed to snapping some stealth Paris street style pictures, weather permitting (impossible today). Best of all, I'm scheduled to meet up with Tish of A Femme d'un Certain Age for some quality lunch/shopping time!

Style/trend notes so far: more color than I've seen before in Paris, floral print scarves, moto boots with skirts (still, and on all ages), skinny jeans with flats (ubiquitous), red jeans, above-the-knee skirts on all ages, trenches, trenches, trenches.

Spring flowers, young lovers on a bench braving the weather. Ah, Paris!

Here's something you don't see every day...

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 20:17:00 +0000

~~Catapult~~ Trebuchet launch at Les Baux. (Video taken with my iPhone.) More about our day to follow soon. À demain, Paris!
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Snapshots: Aix-en-Provence, encore

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:30:00 +0000

Place des 4 Dauphins. Our hotel is less than 2 blocks from here.

Yesterday we rode along with some other guests at the B&B on a day trip to Cassis. The weather was so-so, and we arrived too late in the afternoon for a boat ride to the Calanques. Had a lovely lunch of mostly gigantic and delicious shrimps and langostines, which I neglected to take a picture of (sorry, Faux Fuchsia!).

Today was one of the big market days, so we spent a few hours wandering about under skies that initially threatened but did not deliver rain. Every now and then the sun made an appearance.

And to make it up to Faux Fuchsia for forgetting to take more food pictures...

Fashion Statement

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 06:24:00 +0000

Children's clothing shop window in Aix

And speaking of Fashion, Monday's Fashion Flash is now up at No Nonsense Beauty!

Snapshots: Aix-en-Provence

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 16:20:00 +0000

We spent most of the day just wandering. What a beautiful place this is! Just a note: I've done no digital enhancing of these photos, other than a tiny bit of cropping. The colors really are this saturated!

At the marché...

Outside of Cezanne's atelier...

Unfortunately we arrived just as they were closing. I was able to snap a quick picture of the gardens before we were shooed out.
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Room With A View - Aix

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 07:14:00 +0000

Aix-en-Provence

We look out over a lovely little petit jardin. Last evening we had an apero with gorgeous blogger Leslie from La Fourchette S'Est Emballer. She is as delightful as you'd imagine from her blog!

We'll be wandering around town and visiting the Cezanne museum today, more pictures to follow.

As a side note, as tempting as it was to bring, I decided to keep the load light, leave my DSLR at home, and rely on iphone photography. So far, so good, I think.
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Room With A View

noreply@blogger.com (déjà pseu) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 20:21:00 +0000

Construction modules..refurbishing hotel next door

OK, not so much of a view this time. But our room itself...WOW.

Sitting room

Sitting room other direction

More sitting room

Sleeping area, bathroom

We arrived late Friday afternoon after one long flight and one short one. Other than some serious congestion at Heathrow going through security (they make you go through again even if you're just connecting) everything was on time and went smoothly.

After checking in and getting our bearings in this huge room (thanks to le monsieur's work connections, though we never expected anything this opulent) we took a stroll around the neighborhood before dinner. And what a neighborhood!

Dinner at Jamin was incroyable! Exactly what we were looking for after a long trip: delicious, not too much or too heavy.

Though it was raining and the bar was closed, we had to visit the terrace atop the Hotel Raphael, just for a few minutes of this view.

Plain...

Avec sparkles.

À demain we hop on the train to Aix-en-Provence. To be continued...
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