For your viewing pleasure...

This year marks the 120th year anniversary for the Eiffel Tower. Originally built for the World's Fair in 1889, the tower has become a symbol of France. The tower has gotten controversial reviews and has undergone threats of tearing it down numerous times. Guy de Maupassant ate there frequently because it was the only place in Paris he could not see the unsightly monument.


At any rate, there is a new lighting display for the tower in honor of its anniversary.

Nous allons en France

chateau and gardens of Villandry


La cathédrale

The castle in Angers

So, in November, its back to my homeland for another trip filled with joy, laughter, wine and cheese. My host family has graciously offered to host me once again. This time, I'm going with my parents. My biological family meets my host family. Neither side is fluent in the other's native tongue--this should be interesting! I have my plane and TGV tickets and am ready to head out in early November for 9 days.

The highlight of the trip is going with my parents. This is my opportunity to shine. I plan to show them my love for all things French and that my language skills aren't too shabby either. Like going on a safari, they will be able to see me in my natural habitat. The land of the brie and home of the cave!

Marie-Laure and Marie-Edith sent me a proposed itinerary. We are so fortunate that Marie-Laure was able to take 2 days off to spend with us. They propose visiting the chateau of Villandry and its magnificent gardens, the Cointreau museum, the mushroom museum, eating in an underground cavern restaurant and visiting the chateau in Angers. There is plenty of time left in the itinerary for wines, cheeses, pastries, baguettes and any other delicacies that are viewed as every day in my homeland. I can almost smell the buttery goodness now.

Encore Peter from Provence

Its been a while since I've posted anything. I was beginning to wonder how long I would neglect this blog. Alas, I am back . . . with exciting news! One of my favorite authors, Peter Mayle, has a new book coming out tomorrow : The Vintage Caper. Its another work of fiction. In celebration of this new release, I'm reading an old release : Anything Considered. I am often presented with an author that is new to me and read all of their books and then am left on pins and needles for the next one. J.K. Rowling, Dan Brown and Peter Mayle have all been authors that do not have many books to choose from but are all wonderful reads. Incidentally, I'm reading Dan Brown's new book, too. I am making some effort to pace myself so I have things to read without repeating the "waiting for the new book" blues. Kudos to this new book -- I can't wait!