A Beautiful Woman on Market Day

It was market day and this beautiful woman had some shopping to do. And doesn't she look elegant?

In general, I think aging is a more respected process in France. It's a sign of honor to be referred to as "Madame" and when in doubt, always preferred to to the younger address of "Mademoiselle." Mademoiselle is for younger women and girls. As a friend explained, "Why would you want to be referred to as a girl? It's a pleasure being a woman!" Isn't this refreshing?

My husband's smart and gorgeous grandmother, Gigi, once told me she didn't like to be referred to as "cute," even when meant as a compliment. I didn't really understand the comment at the time, but I think I do now. Cute in exchange for beautiful or elegant or attractive has a different ring to it altogether. We don't cease to be women once we've left a certain season of life.

While certainly youth has it's signature beauty and aging has it's trials, no matter the country, I love the respect and appreciation given to women of "advancing stature" ... whether that is at 35 or 85. I love that women can present themselves with confidence and be considered beautiful at all ages.

Isn't this a good mindset to take on and habit to pursue?

Springtime Closet-Cleanout

I've been trying to "lay low" this week after an appointment with the osteopath. I am not supposed to do anything (my doctor told me, in English, "Just be cool. Be cool."), but doing nothing is only fun when you are already doing too many things. I don't like actually doing nothing. So ... I decided to do some light spring cleaning in the wardrobe department. I love to clean out my closet. Seriously. I love it.

The hallway pictured above holds our shared closet to the left. Isn't it pretty?

When we moved here, we came with just what we could bring on the plane, with the exception of Pops' computer equipment and some books, which we shipped. The bulk of what we brought with us was clothing, but even in that we had to be choosy. 

I am asked frequently about what we chose to take and how we fit it all on the plane. We did put some clothes into storage (only adult clothing, no point with growing children!), but I keep a fairly pared down wardrobe as it is, so it actually wasn't that difficult deciding what to take.

I really enjoy dressing and I enjoy nice items, but I also don't mind waiting until I find just the right thing. When it comes to shopping and clothing, I'd rather own less, have it be decent quality, and really love and wear it. I also love a good discount store and shopping the clearance racks. If you are patient and don't mind the hunt, you can find some beautiful things for normal-people prices. Love that when it happens!

The above photo is everything that I have that goes on a hanger. On the left side next to a few of Pops' sport coats, I have two lightweight coats of mine, skirts and dresses. On the right are tanks, blouses, blazers and some cardigans ...

Inevitable Fails and Small Successes

I have been forcing myself to make small ventures into town each day. Both to get out of the house and to get used to it! I confess, the driving rules* and language and cultural differences make it rather intimidating. In someways, large cities are easier to be a foreigner ... because so many people are!

Today, we needed groceries (again), underpants, shoes for Jane, and pencil pouches. We have yet to complete our full school supply shopping (daunting), but apparently pencil pouches are expected. My kids weren't thrilled with the comic character pouches at the grocery and I had noticed a Librairie (bookstore) in the center of town next to a promising shoe store.  The Librairie had darling leather pouches of myriad electric colors (one for each child), plus needed post-it notes and the most darling cahiers. Cahiers being the French name for blank, lined notebooks. I'm certain I desperately need these for something.

La Tour Eiffel + La Travel Tip

Guess where we went today? Paris is organized very well, but as Pops said, "It's huge." Since it took a fairly long metro ride from the 11th arr. to La Tour Eiffel, and we are already pretty tired, we decided a simple look about was all that was needed. 

After all, it's Paris. It's the Eiffel Tower! There is plenty to gawk at even if we kept our feet on the ground.

Travel tip for families? In this case, we will be in close proximity to Paris for awhile, so we truly can "see it next time." But even if your trip is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, if you are just too tired, or are contemplating doing/seeing something because you feel like you should, tell yourselves "We'll see it next time." Somehow repeating this phrase makes it feel okay to skip an otherwise fun thing.

It's just not worth burning yourselves out and dealing with a crew of cranky people over something that's optional. Trust me, there will be plenty of crank-inducing moments that will not be optional.

And truly, when it keeps the masses congenial ... the view from the bottom is every bit as good as the top.

How about you? Any good travel tips out there?

**PS-When we were in New York, men in flip flops everywhere. Paris? I haven't seen any male toes. Almost entirely clad in proper shoes and when in sandals, thick strappy kinds that keep those hairy man toes covered. I mentioned this to Pops. I don't think we've lived here long enough for him to care.

In My Slippered Dreams

I've never been good at picking slippers out. Or maybe I'm just plain picky. I want a rubber sole so I can go outside and get the mail and I don't want fuzzy fluff because it gets matted down and dirty. I want slip-on slip-off and I don't want Pops to call them my 'clod-hoppers'. They must be stain-resistant because I will undoubtedly spill some dinner on them. And in my slippered-dreams, they would be something cute enough that I can wear with regular clothes during the day and not feel like a frumpy-schlump when I open the door for the FedEx guy or hop in the van for the carpool rounds. I told you. I'm a high-maintenance slipper girl.

But then I found these. The good ol' fashioned Minnetonka moccasins. They meet all my criteria and they are crazy comfy to boot.

Dreams can come true.

**PS-They run a half-size large!

The Working Wardrobe

 It can be hard to stay fashionable when the weather begins to cool but the summer chores still need to be done. Need some transitional pieces? Leggings and a lace scarf are the go-to items for fall, didn't you know. Chic and practical.

Get a Grip, Girl!

Hi, Ladies! Hope your weekend went well. We had some snippets of sun this weekend and though it was still chilly, we all scurried about outside trying to soak up some vitamin D. I did a bunch of pruning and general yard clean up and even did some planting in my outdoor pots. (Pictures to come.)

I also had a very close call. A brush with direct Lenten failure. If you'll recall, I have given myself a spending challenge over Lent. Specifically, spend less. Now, I'm still buying groceries and socks and toothpaste and all that jazz. But I'm trying to not "go shopping." Loose parameters, but I know what my trigger points are and where to be wary.

So, back to my confession. There was a skirt I've had my eye on. Love, love, loved it. Perfect for summer (I don't really like shorts) and so versatile. I hadn't purchased it, but it was on my mental list of "stuff that could be worth purchasing later." It just so happens that I checked it online (probably not a good idea) and ... discovered they have almost completely run out of stock. Not only that, it just so happens that the store had sent me a big ol' coupon that was about to expire. And ... it just so happens that the store at the mall had one left ... in my size.

I went, I tried on, I loved even more. I walked around the store for 10 minutes holding the garment trying to convince myself that it wouldn't be cheating to buy it. After all, the coupon is going to expire! They are almost sold out! I won't even wear it until after Easter!!!! But I got a grip and was reminded that this was exactly why I was fasting from shopping in the first place. It's. Just. A. Skirt. So, I put it back (in the very dark recesses of the rack) and left the store.

Hurrah! It's so pathetic that I am this proud of myself. The whole deal is rather embarrassing, but it's good, no? I'm making progress. I'm learning. I'm growing up just a bit more.


***PS - working on the A to your Q's! Coming soon ...

A Pile of Pretty Bangles

When I had wee ones about, I viewed jewelry as just one more thing that could be yanked, broken, or become horrifyingly unsanitary. Dangly earrings? Out for obvious reasons. Long delicate necklace? Choking hazard. Bracelets while changing diapers? The gross potential here is off the charts.

So it is only recently that I've begun to re-discover such joys. Lately, I'm loving me some clinky-clattery bangles. For some reason they feel slightly luxurious to me. Especially when wearing more than one at a time! Maybe because they make me feel like a lady and we all know that sensation can be easily lost during active mom-ing.

Above you see my recent bangle faves. Excepting the hobnail bracelet (an excellent ebay score) they are all from the thrift store and cost an average of two dollars. Don't be afraid to rummage those dirty little wicker baskets on the shop counter full of writhing piles of odd jewelry pieces. You'll almost always find something ... and you can wash your hands later. In fact, if thrift-store shopping oooks you out a bit, jewelry and kitchen items are a great place to start ... easily scrubbed and sterilized.

What are you loving lately?

What I Wore

I always enjoy "What I Wore" posts on other blogs. Especially when they are moms and aren't actually at the playground in stilettos. After all, don't we all just wish for a happy medium somewhere between frumpy and glam? Wearing outfits that are doable, affordable, and washing-machine friendly? I love me a good inspiration photo. (Plus, they'll be great for a giggle in a decade or two!)

So. Here's my picture. It's my current momiform (mom + uniform = a good thing). Long, tunic-y top (gotta' cover the bum!), cardigan, skinny pants tucked into boots or with flats. Add a long necklace and bracelet if you have it. Ta-da! My momiform. I'm not saying I'm a style mavin, by any means, but it works for me.

I must take a moment here, however, to point out that I'm not good at posing for pictures. I seem to have an aversion to actually looking at the camera and I don't know how to stand. For instance, when wearing a horizontally striped shirt, perhaps not jutting out the pelvis so you look six months pregnant or like you just ate 3 hoagies would be a good idea. An observation I'm just now making.

Now then. What's your go-to outfit? Any tips for posing for photos?

Top: LOFT
Cardigan: old purchase from TJ Maxx
Jeans: ???
Boots: Thrifted
Necklace: F21

And She Had Happy Feet

Oh, Ladies. I've just found me the most perfect pair of flats ever. I'd been jonesin' for a pair of animal print flats for awhile, figuring they'd be chic, practical, and comfortable. But why, oh why, are comfy flats ... at a good price ... hard to find? Such a strange phenomenon.

But then I stumbled up on this pair at TJ Maxx. They only had one pair, in my size, fantastically comfy, in a groovy faux snakeskin/leopard print, for literally half of the retail price. Destiny.

Off to go chase my tots and make some grub all while happily shod ...

If I Could, I'd Dress Like This Gentleman

 Phoenix Zoo, Arizona

To Wear It With Confidence

This vintage fur collar has to be one of my most luxurious thrift-store finds to date. Lined in a mauvey-peach silk with a silk-thread hook and eye closure, and smelling faintly of a regally perfumed granny ... sheer fantastic-ness.

Honestly, I'm kind of digging the collar right on top of a plain sweater. However, at Christmas, I placed it over top my camel-toned wool dress coat. No wonder the high-end ladies love their fur! It definitely put a confident swagger in my step.

So now. What do we call fur collars? Not a shawl, not a muff ... but there must be a designated term, as "collar" just doesn't seem to be a snooty enough term. Any thoughts?

The Lady in the Black Fedora

"Who is this mystery woman," you ask? She lives a covert life at dusk, sleuthing her way around the city. And on one fateful day, not so very long ago ...

she struck thrift-store gold. After dropping a friend off at the metro train station, she slyly headed over to a honey of a shop. Only clothing items and mostly vintage. As we all know, thrift-stores in the city mock those in the 'burbs. Their elitist attitude is well earned.

It had been heavily raining and she was without a hood. Locals rarely use umbrellas in her part of the world ... they just aren't afraid of getting wet. However, looking like a doused feline is never a good look. With this realization at the forefront of her expeditionary musings, she headed over to the haberdashery section of the establishment. She was dubious. Her expectations were low, as outfitting her gi-normous noggin is always a challenge.

But then. She found it. A men's black vintage felt fedora with a grosgrain bow to the side.

She furtively glanced about to see if she would need to wield expert physical maneuvering against others honing in on the same glorious item. As luck would have it, she was unopposed. She placed the lovely artifact upon her head and it slid into place like it had been created for this very moment.

"Who is she," you continue to beg?

It was heard that her eldest daughter referred to her as an "odd detective" and chastened her to "hunch her shoulders" with increased effort.

But alas, we know not more. Her full identity remains an elusive detail, but she is said to have been sighted at a thrift-shop near you. Be on your guard ... she's ruthless.

An Inspired Series

Thank you, one-dollar sunglasses. You inspire us down to our intellectual core.

In Front of the Camera

I am not one of those people who refuses to have her picture taken. It's fine, go ahead. A little smile and click ... no big deal. However, that is assuming there is at least one other person in the picture with me. A pic all by my lonesome? Oh, ugh. I turn into the biggest, nerdiest geek ever. I feel so lame being photographed, I start smiling super-cheesy smiles and begin jumping around like I am rather addled and confused.

So when Pops asked if he could take a picture of me in my pretty summer dress (that I didn't really need and he let me purchase anyways), I really didn't want to. But he looked so earnest, told me I was pretty, and ... he did buy me the pretty summer dress. So, I put my shoes back on without even bothering to buckle them and clumped outside.

The entire session took less than a minute but Pops kept the shutter button pressed. Out of the twenty or so shots, I managed to not look at the camera or be doing something rather odd for every single shot. But, oh well. We've already established that I am not hip or cool, I'm just a mom who likes to get dressed up sometimes. Everyone who actually knows me is not under the impression that move around like a sleek model, so really my photos are actually a pretty decent representation of the awkward me ... like it or not!

But here's the thing. Us moms are usually the ones behind the cameras. While we may not particularly love photos of ourselves, our kids will. I know the pictures from when I was young that include my mom are distinct treasures. To me, she looks gorgeous in every single one. And I have a feeling that 30 years from now, we'll think we look pretty darn fine too.

So here's my challenge, girls. I've seen your blogs and I love them. But I also know you are like me and feel goofy putting photos of yourself on display. Will you give it a whirl? Do it for your kids. Do it for yourself and then we can all meet back here in a few decades and wonder why we were all so self-conscious in the first place. Is it a deal?

Finding Adventure in a Haircut

Ten years ago I would have never asked the hairdresser to give me ... bangs. The potential horrors of slipping back into my 6th-grade self, adorned with giant, fluffy hamster-shaped bangs sprayed and shellac-ed by my handy can of Aqua-Net ... not worth it my friend, not worth it.

But then, that was me then. The older I get, the less afraid of change I seem to be. Maybe I want bangs. Maybe it will be fun! Maybe they'll be awful, but they'll grow out in a matter of months, so who cares.

Ten years ago I would never have described myself as adventurous. Well, I don't know if I really am now, but I'm much more intrigued with the possibility. New experiences, new foods, new perspectives, new places ...

It's not a new me. Nothing has really changed over time. Maybe I'm just realizing how fascinated I am with this world and God's plan for the people in it. What was He thinking when He brewed up this earthly concoction? I'd like to be part of it and not just observe from afar.

I am in awe of so many amazing people I know who embrace life with all it's challenges and opportunities. They do so with a willingness and passionate ferocity that humbles me. But once you start, it can be easy to feel puny and wimpy in comparison. Life is different for different people, isn't it. What may be a big leap for me, may be small change for someone else. We're not all in the same place to accept the same challenges. And that's okay too.

While I may dream of my own little adventures, it's not hard for me to get scared, or hop onto the worry train. I still like predictability and security. But then, does striving for that cocoon mean I'll ever actually achieve it? In my experience, no. So. Why not try that funky-looking squid, dive into homeschooling and release again, read books about Chinese vagabonds, invite people to dinner and not worry about how clean the house is, travel to Central America with a child and husband, and ... even ... volunteer for bangs again.

Adventure is what you make of it. Don't you think?

Thrift Store Chic

I've been loving the big, garish, costume-jewelery that seems en vogue, once again. Imagine my delight when I stumbled upon this pop-bead reminiscent necklace (and matching bracelet!) at the thrift store a couple of weeks ago.

I've been noticing that a remarkable bauble or two seem to make all the difference. Toss one on and the basic t-shirt and jeans have been elevated to a chic level that a mom can actually aspire to.

Any other fashion tricks out there, ladies? What is cheap, simple, and makes you feel good? What are you always on the hunt for because you know it's a "no fail" number? Us Mamas want to know.

Good Little Things

I watched a French foreign film recently and the chic main character favored striped blue and white Breton tees. Love them. In fact, I might wear them everyday 'til I'm 70. Well, maybe not, but I do think they are just about t-shirt perfection.

After getting dressed this morning, I was looking through some necklaces to compliment the shirt and came upon this little ladybug. Pops gave it to me the day Lucette was born, 7 years ago tomorrow. He thought it would be a sweet thing for a baby to look at while cuddled up with mama.

Somehow, the gift means more to me now than when I first received it. Funny how good things are like that.

Acquiring a Fondness

Recently I posted about my distaste for ironing. Blah. However, I was fascinated by the comments. Such a polarizing chore! It seems you gals either love or hate it. Now, the cringe crowd ... I get it. But some of you relish this task as almost an art-form. Well, knock me over with a feather!

Always one for a chore gimmick, I was particularly curious by Kelly's comment about how she loves to use spray starch and how crisp and lovely the garments turn right before her eyes.

Figuring housewives have been starching for centuries, mustn't there be a homemade version I could concoct and even make sweet smelling? Yes, of course!

After a little research, here's what I ended up with: Mix 1/4 c. cold water with 1 T. cornstarch. Mix well. Add about 3 cups of very hot water, stirring to combine. Add a couple of drops of lavender essential oil, if you'd like (It'll make the house smell good, too). All done! Wait to cool, place in spritzer and shake well before each use.

Kelly, you're right! It is kind of fun to hear that crackle pop of the steamy iron and watch the wrinkles vanish. Now, those of you who use the store bought starch ... if you try the homemade version, will you let me know if you think it competes? What other tips do you all have for me? I think I just might be developing a new fondness.

Because Us Girls Love Our Faves

Every now and then I'll stumble upon a "favorite products" article by regular moms, and I just love it. I do not have the motivation to research cosmetics, nor do I care enough even if I did scrape up the mojo. What I do want is stuff that works, is easy to find, and that won't break the bank. So, herewith, some of my product must-haves:

Cetaphil Cream
This stuff is amazing. It comes in a lighter pump formula, but I love this thick cream. It is fragrance free, super hydrating, not greasy, and doesn't irritate my skin. And I have cranky skin. In fact, at my last dermatologist appointment my doctor and I were discussing our Cetaphil love and she mentioned that she used it as a night cream for her face, too. "Really?? You can do that??" I asked. Ever since, I use it at night after I wash my face, as well as an all-over moisturizer. Cetaphil has been my lotion staple for a good decade and you can even pick it up at the grocery store. Perfection.

Thayer's Rose Petal Witch Hazel
Since when did we forget about good 'ol witch hazel? It's gentle, natural, and won't strip your face of natural oils leaving that icky tight feeling. I use this as a toner after I wash my face and some evenings, if I'm dog tired, I won't even wash it but will swipe my face with a cotton pad doused with it. True, it doesn't take off eye product, but zips off the makeup in no time. I'm sure any kind will work, but Thayer's has a lovely light scent and is a favorite.

Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 45 Moisturizer
A few years back, I had a skin cancer scare and now I am a SPF zealot. While I like to use a light SPF 15 lotion on my hands, neck, and any other exposed area during the day (yes, even winter), for my face I want something stronger. This facial moisturizer is the ticket. Not greasy, absorbed quickly, and works well under makeup. It's a keeper.

Rare Minerals Blemish Therapy
This is a rather new item in my product arsenal, but having recently hopped on the mineral makeup train ... I'm pretty impressed. This product has a main ingredient of sulphur and when dabbed onto blemishes, manages to dry the beasties up without causing dried, flaky skin. It works under makeup as well as a quick treatment before bed. If you are like me and can't believe that you've reached your 30's and still get breakouts (argh!) this little number might just make you giddy. And Moms ... please oh, please try this for your teen girls! I shudder at my Clearasil past and only wish I had something like this to soothe my horrified face. It's a bit spendy, but if you've struggles with breakouts you may find it's just worth it.

Maybelline Define-A-Lash Mascara
Love it. A little rubbery brush with scads of bristles and a smooth formula that glides on with ease. What else can I say? Oh yeah. It's about $6.00 at Target!

MAC Lipgelée
Lipgloss is the ultimate cheater makeup product. I am very average mom when it comes to cosmetics. I don't wear a ton and what I do is very simplistic. Perhaps that's why tinted lipgloss is an absolute must. Tap on a little powder, brush on a bit of mascara, swipe on the lipgloss and we're ready to rumble. This MAC lip "gel" is very sheer so you can't make a mistake. I swear, you can apply it in the car (which I do) and you won't miss. And you'll be glad to know, it has no fragrance or taste (who wants strawberry-kiwi lips, anyways?), nor is it goopy or sticky -- just smooth and lovely. It's on the pricey side, but a tube lasts me more than a year and I use it all the time.

There it is, girls. Some of my favorites. What are yours? I am so far from being any kind of an authority on this topic matter, and it's entirely possible that what I think looks chic and fresh could be anything but. So, if you know me personally and see me walking around with ridiculous makeup ... please, I beg you, come wash my face for me.