state of sunshine

April 15, 2016

“The days are long but the years are short.” This quote by Gretchen Rubin articulates well how quickly days become years. And within them we must try our best to use the time we have, wisely. (One of the reasons I decided to travel the world for a year, and continue to travel and experience all that I can in the days I have been granted.) Yet as so many of us do, I easily become wrapped up in my work, constantly doing and in turn, becoming. That topic I’ll save for another post… But is this what really matters the most in life? No, it’s the time we share with those we love, and how we treat others. So I decided to surprise my mom for her birthday, a day long journey (which became quite an adventure with an expired passport and a delayed flight) from Paris via New York to West Palm Beach. Needless to say, she was shocked and elated. What greater joy is there?

Mom and I are enjoying these long days in the sunshine state, with dinners at home, a trip to neighboring Palm Beach (these photos capturing those moments), and of course birthday celebrations coming up. You can follow along for daily updates via instagram. Enjoy each day before it becomes a year… and see you back in Paris!

from south to north fork

May 28, 2015

Growing up on the South Fork, I rarely left the Hamptons. Possessing some of the most beautiful beaches in the US, it provides the ideal respite from life in chaotic New York City, and with family and friends all around, what more does one need? On this trip home however, we decided to venture north to Long Island’s wine country. With over 35 wineries, we decided to stop for tastings at the second oldest Lenz Winery, and Pindar.

The North Fork is a 30-mile-long peninsula, the easternmost part of the North Shore. Orient Point sits on the tip. Between the two forks are two large islands, Shelter Island and Gardiners Island. Much more rural feeling and not as chic as it’s southern counterpart, the North Fork is filled with vineyards, apple orchards and farms. An ideal weekend or day trip.

Enjoying the views along the way, we drove to Greenport where we stopped for lunch.

Many of the eateries were closed following the long Memorial Day weekend, including Claudio’s, the oldest same family owned restaurant in the United States, opened in 1870.

We took a walk in the village and the charm of Greenport was felt around every corner.

On the road home, the fruit and vegetable stands were enticing.

We enjoyed our time and tastings in the north, but were happy to call the south home.

high tea for two

August 17, 2014

One reason I love when my mom comes to Paris to visit is that I get to spoil her. I spend months in preparation, planning all sorts of events, exhibitions, eating experiences, etc. This year I thought I’d surprise her with a mother/daughter high tea. Where better than at the Four Seasons George V?

Upon entering this ethereal setting, we were taken with Jeff Leatham’s stunning floral compositions.

My mom and I were in our element, both of us favoring sweet over savory.

We began our indulgent afternoon with one of Lucien Gautier’s fruitful masterpieces.

Is there anything better than French pastries with champagne to compliment?

How happy I was to spend such a memorable afternoon with my mom, and in such sweet splendor!

adventures in the keys

February 21, 2014

Admittedly, I’ve seen much more of the world than of my own homeland. My dream of driving cross-country to experience what is truly America remains to be realized. One day. For the time being my American adventures remain in New York and Florida with family and friends. During our recent trip to the Sunshine State, we did have the good fortune to take a mini road trip to the Florida Keys, along with my mom and her husband, final destination Key West.

Our first stop after nearly 3 hours of driving was just past Key Largo, which left much to be desired with it’s multitudinous strip malls and pharmacy’s, a kitschy fish restaurant in Islamorada. Savouring the catch of the day (and not thinking too much about which day it was actually caught), we continued on our way until we reached our destination for the night in nearby Marathon.

Our secluded refuge was Tranquility Bay Resort, also home to the iguanas.

And tranquil it was, surrounded by clear blue stillness.

That evening we experienced a magical sunset along the 7-mile bridge… that alone worth the drive.

And still in time to sit beneath the glowing sky with a bottle of French wine.

The following morning we got back on the road, crossed the infamous bridge and made our way to Key West. First stop, Hemingway’s House. Not to mention his cats, all 45 of them.

Here is one of the 6-toed wonders, drinking from a urinal Hemingway ‘installed’ in his garden.

We also explored the infamous brothel Blue Heaven, where Hemingway spent many an evening.

After carousing the scenic town and indulging in key lime pie like proper tourists, we headed south.

To the southernmost tip of the USA. Last stop before the long drive home.

Guided by the setting sun alongside the historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge… filled with memories.

Château de Chantilly

July 18, 2013

During my mom’s recent visit to Paris, we decided to take her for a day trip. Where else but to a château? Less than 30 minutes by train lies the town of Chantilly, home to a spectacular château spanning the 14th to 19th centuries, not to mention chantilly cream, which in itself is worth the trip!

Our first stop was the Grand Stables. Yes, horses do still live within this admirable structure!

At first sight the Château de Chantilly exhibits an air of serene magnificence.

The Musée Condé boasts the grandest collection of paintings in France, after the Louvre of course.

I could not stop admiring (and photographing) the château from every angle, both near and far.

A idyllically regal day spent beneath blue skies and the historic charm of France.

like father like daughter

June 16, 2013

There is something uniquely special about the relationship between a father and a daughter. When I was merely five years old I asked my mom in a state of panic, “You married Dad, so now who will I marry?”. Yes, I was in love with my father. And rightfully so, as he was a special man. Gentle in nature, strong in character, handsome in visage, filled with personality and witty beyond words. Unfortunately, our time together was short, and at the age of fifteen he passed away due to illness. I often wonder how my life would have evolved with his support and influence, considering we shared many of the same dreams and visions of life. And continue to.

Though he is not with me in the physical sense, I continue to feel my father’s presence. During my many months of travel I knew he was there, and felt safe. When I serendipitously met my Italian I knew my dad was behind the scenes, silently directing my path. And now, I am living a life between France and Italy, his two favorite places on earth. Perhaps I am fulfilling his dreams, as I fulfill my own. After all, it is what he has taught me, to always follow my heart and believe in myself, that has led me on this journey. For this life, to my father, I am grateful.

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