Culture, Life, Travel

Inspired trip translates into an Inspired life

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Growing up on the east coast has always given me a great sense of pride in being a part of what the east coast means to me.  I think of the east coast as fast paced, hard working, authenticity.  And this is coming from a gal who was born and raised on the east coast and yet has spent the majority of my adult life on the west coast.  Though the pride I have in being a true east coaster is one that I will cherish my whole life.

For over the last 10 years, I’ve worked in the retail world, or rather REIT’s, who develop own and manage most of the biggest shopping centers in the United States.  After representing Fashion Valley for over half a decade, I was ready for a new challenge to further utilize and explore my talents.  I had put it out in the universe that I was ready for something new.  At that same time, I took a journey with my cousin to Peru.  This country has some of the most magical and spiritual places this world has to offer.  During this exploration, we ventured to Aguas Caliente to visit Machu Picchu one of the 7 wonders of the world- that, by the way, is absolutely not to be missed! (If you’ve ever even thought about doing so-GO!!!!!  You will not regret it and your life will forever be touched by this incredible place. )  I digress…

We started our journey in Lima where we were fortunate enough to spend time with our friend Hugo and his family who quickly familiarized us with the country, the culture and the must do’s on the trip.  They told us that while in Machu Picchu to be sure to say a special prayer and think of the things we hoped for, for our lives as the “mama pacha energy” that is known to be at this historic, inspiring site can be life changing.  I recall it ever so clearly, sitting on top of this truly magical land and feeling love and energy running through me as I took a moment to ‘go in’, take a moment of reflection and meditation and honor this peaceful place.  (Albeit, with a couple alpaca’s and llama’s hanging out beside me, lurking about)

I had just come out of a devastating divorce and was ready for the next chapter to unveil itself that would allow for great growth and inspiration for my career, as I wanted to focus my previous challenges into something more worthy.  Well, let’s just say Hugo was right.  Less than a month later, I was recruited to work with my biggest competitor in the shopping center business.  And despite the feeling of having to don a Scarlet letter in moving onto “the other side” I dove into this new opportunity, feeling somehow that the Incan’s had a hand in this next step.  You see, at this time, the World Trade center was a project being developed by my new company, Westfield. And being an east coaster, I wanted to be a part of it.  The entire world felt the affects of 9/11.   Westfield was personally affected by that tragic day, losing some of their very own from their Westfield family.  I was beyond inspired by the opportunity to be part of Westfield’s passion behind this project- a chance for honoring, remembering and persevering despite the pain.

Fast forward to 1 month ago, when I had the honor of being a part of this center’s grand opening.  Working with my team, collaborating on these efforts was one of the most rewarding projects I’ve been a part of thus far.  Not only was I inspired to see the hours and dedication that was poured into all aspects of this center, I was fueled by the fact that the entire grand opening was a Family Day, created and dedicated to honor those touched by the tragedies that happened there.  The grand opening was a beautiful moment that completely touched and overwhelmed my heart.  In fact, at times it was hard to hold in all the emotion I felt simply being there, surrounded by thousands of people who were brought together to be honored.  Spending time with those so closely affected by 9/11 and feeling all the love in this sacred spot was truly remarkable.  I love my east coasters.  Though let’s be honest… we move fast, we talk fast, we want typically people to move out of our way.  And anyone who’s even visited New York knows that it can be a bit frantic and dare I say, an aggressive city at times.  And yet, on this day, there was such a sense of peace.  Of respect.  Of honor. Of Love, that overwhelmed my heart and made me thankful that a little vacation to a little place called Peru, opened up a new chapter in my life where I had the chance to contribute to a project of compassion, of heart, of meaning.  And on this day, the 15th year anniversary of 9/11 I can’t help but think of all those families who I spent moments with- being inspired by their strength, love and togetherness.  I will never forget.

 

 

Culture, Life

Old Soul dating in a New World

Fashion in a suitcase came about as many friends and family would often tell me that my life on social media and conversely, basically everything in my life, was built around fashion and my constant traveling around the globe.  For the last few years, many close friends, colleagues and randoms I encountered would constantly wonder why I’m single.  Perhaps it’s that I’m often not home?  Either way…it’s a question I often find perplexing as well.  And yet most of my east coast friends and across the globe are fairly convinced it’s due to the fact that I live in Southern California, where the forever  bachelors and bachelorettes reside.

It is fascinating to see how society assesses your value by these “things” that you have that define you.  You’re single?  Why?!  Do you have 15 toes or a boat load of cats?  Surely there MUST be something wrong, if you’re single.  And yet the majority of people I know who are single are still, in fact, quite fascinating people who live very full lives, they just do so alone.  (and more often than not, not by choice).  So, with that being said, I find myself single and ready to mingle in 2016 and self admittedly more confused on how the process works then simply how it “use to work.”  It seems increasingly more challenging to date in a world where technology runs our day to day existence.  It’s not a matter of meeting someone you run into at a family function, a wedding, or through your work place (which I’ve always found to be somewhat of a sketchy idea) though it is ever commonplace.

After years of trying to go about it the “old school way” by happenstance, it turns out I just happen to remain single.  So, after years of fighting the concept of online dating, I have surrendered and caved in not being open to this new way of dating.  In fact, I’m as usual, a bit late to the game, in adapting to it since it’s not that new, it’s just that there are now a slew of options and app’s to do so.

So, here I go- diving into what everyone feels will be my saving grace for escaping singledom.  From Bumble, to Happn and the ever infamous, Tinder.  Though I have to be honest, after just a few encounters, trials and attempts, I have to say I’m even more disenchanted.  Sure, I’ve matched up with guys.  Plenty to speak of, though in my mind- albeit old school- it’s not a quantity game.  Plus, after matching up, where does it go from here?  I’m not into just a fling…Tinder…and I’m not into a game of texting forever in hopes there’s some connection via a wifi connection.  I’m the old soul who (still) believes and is convinced there is such “Something”…an energy…above and beyond attraction simply through filtered images.

Not to mention, even when you connect with someone there is the fact of “ghosting,” which is an ever present reality these days.  No explanation, no need for any further words, just poof- gonzo!  It’s incredible to see such a disconnect in humanity.  Or the (Who knew) reality of a Catfish?  The stories from friends experiencing all of this with “onAPP dating” has been beyond entertaining…and yet baffling.  It seems there’s yet another possibility to still be “considered” for future by what some are referring to as Benching.  Yep, exactly as it sounds- You’ve been benched.  So….you’re saying there’s a chance….but you’re just not sure.  Ahhhhh, yes….let’s wait and see if there’s a reason to meet up in future to determine if there’s anything to even worth considering in future. Seriously.  I’d rather be by myself, as I’ve chosen for a little while, as I seek a soulful connection, not just one based on drunken swiping to the right.  These days we are ever connected, ever turned on and yet ever checked out.  So, when I check in, I’d like it to be with someone who is able to do the same.  Call me old fashioned…I’ll take it as a compliment.  Come to think of it, perhaps I change my blog to Single and a suitcase?   Could be fitting.  Good luck out there, my single friends!

I think David Bowie may have had it right…#modernlove

Life

an L.A. story…

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After years of fighting and rejecting the thought of moving to L.A., here I sit…on Sunset Blvd, in my new hood of West Hollywood.  Who would have thought it?  Certainly not me!  The person who has detested and fought the very concept for all 17 years that I have been a resident of California.  Guess it just goes to show that in life, you simply just don’t know.  You have to let the wind take you where you are to be.  For me, I became an LA Woman by taking on a new role where I needed to be based in LA.  So now that the wind has blown me here…Now what?!

I was fortunately offered two months of housing while I find my way around this hustling, hectic and yet quite incredible new place!  I have to say that I’m falling for LA.  And this is again coming from the person that was against everything I thought LA was.

However, along with this excitement comes some of the crazzzzzy that LA is known for.  In fact, in my search for my new home, I had some very interesting encounters and experiences.  First off, I learned that most people secure a place and move within days.  No long leeway in securing an apartment.  Everything, unlike the traffic, moves at a fast pace.  And if you’re interested in making a place yours, you better come cash in hand and ready to commit.  I went to check out a 1 Bedroom in West Hollywood, along with 17 others.  17 people up for the same place?  And to be honest, this place wasn’t worth the competition that came with it.

Finding a place was a great way, if nothing else, for me to explore neighborhoods and parts of town I hadn’t even known of.  It was a chance for me to see that LA actually had much more to offer than I had ever given it credit for.  Stunning tree lined streets, charming architecture and adorable pockets hidden all over this city.  In fact, I found a 1930’s Spanish Colonial just driving around Robertson.  Called immediately and was able to move quickly.  The woman was from Pennsylvania, just like me…and we bonded over the fact that we were thankful for our east coast upbringing and how we valued the morals and integrity that came along with coming from there.  This was it.  This was my place.  A hand shake, deposit given, move-in date set.  Hooray, it’s official, I have a home in LA!!  Two hours later, she calls me back with great despair in her voice.  She begins by apologizing profusely saying she had another offer which she simply couldn’t refuse.  You see, another girl wanted this place as badly as I did.  Her father was a plastic surgeon and offered “Miss PA Integrity” with $300 more/per month in rent, though this grand offer came with something she valued even more.  It came with BOTOX.  Of course it did.  I mean, this is LA after all!  Needless to say, I can’t compete with units of face-freezing botox, so my dream of residing in this classic, cozy place went away like the wrinkles on her face.

Onward I go…the search must go on.  Driving up and down all the streets from Sunset south and back up again.  Found yet another place simply by exploring and driving up and down WeHo.  Called and toured immediately by yet another transport from the east coast.  Thankfully this time the woman was simply lovely to work with and when I put down a deposit, this time it was truly mine.  It’s a charming little community, somewhat of a (cliche and all)…Melrose place feel to it and is located just moments from the Chateau Marmot, which just so happens to be one of my favorite places in LA!

Sometimes it can be tough to navigate where you’re headed in life, though if you weather the winds of change and enjoy the ride…you may just end up where you never thought you would be and be happier than you thought.  Trust in life… and the course you’re on… and an adventure awaits!  May the constant winds of change guide you along a wonderful journey, through this thing called Life.  xo

 

Life, Travel

Winter Nights and Northern Lights

My strong desire to see Iceland was pretty simple- I needed to see the Northern Lights. It’s what drove me there, in all honesty.  What I didn’t realize is that seeing the Northern Lights is not something that is guaranteed.  Apparently, the Northern Lights come and go in few day cycles so the best bet to ensure a sighting is to be there for at least a week.  And to venture far out of the cities.  Though most importantly to check the aurora forecast every morning and be willing to change up your agenda, if need be to get to the area where the sky are clear and lights visible.  http://www.northernlightsiceland.com/northern-lights-forecast/

My experience in witnessing the Northern Lights was far better than I even imagined.  This day, however, was a white knuckle stressful day of travel from Reykjavik to Skaftafell for our Glacier hike was beyond hellacious.  We started the morning around before 7 am to ensure ample time to make it for our 1 pm glacier guided tour. The snow/hail/rain that we encountered made for a long and, at times, a rather stressful journey.  After being on the road for 6 hours we arrived at Glacier Guides for our tour starting at 1:00 at 1:01.  Literally just missed the tour but moments.  Thankfully, as fate would have it, we waited for the next tour in hopes that others, like us, may bail out and we can hop in on their time slot.  It ended up being even better, as we had the chance to have an phenomenal tour of the glacier and caves and finished our hike at sunset.  Spectacular.  Truly memorable experience, gazing over ice and glaciers at the closing of the day, in the perfect light of the night sky.  Had no idea that this was only the beginning of our magical night.

We booked a last minute reservation for Hotel Lambafell, a log cabin like, mini estate in the middle of nowhere, sitting perfectly at the foothill of a mountain.  Upon our arrival we immediately found our way to the jacuzzi in the back yard (though in reality it was more like an entire open field, miles of land, that belonged to only us)  Magical in itself.  Though the true magic began about 45 minutes later.  Enjoying some wine and the company of new friends, the sky began to light up with one green trail that quickly turned into an entire sky of green and purple.  From finger-like chandeliers to swirling and dancing across the sky.  It was by far one of the most spectacular things I’ve witnessed thus far in my life.  I was so inspired, so much in awe, I couldn’t get out of the jacuzzi to get my iPhone to capture it.  This was the one time in my life that I wanted to just truly be present and not miss a thing.  The night and lights finished around 3 am.  Though even then, when falling asleep, we swore the lights were still circling above us as we closed our eyes to sleep for the night.  This experience was something that truly touched my soul in that moment.  To share the space with good people, great wine and one of the most fantastic “light shows” in the world.  Life is beautiful.  Get out there and explore, my friends!  Oh and if you ever need a travel buddy, I’m always down!

 

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The glory of the glaciers, Skaftafell
The glory of the glaciers, Skaftafell

 

Culture, Travel

Iceland, the land of magic

For a few years now, I’ve wanted to check out the magical mystery of Iceland.  Though to be honest, it wasn’t quite at the top of the list.  Though timing just happened to be perfect for a new excursion in what would end up being one of the most unique adventures of a lifetime!  And like most wanderlust spirits, there are many places that we’re naturally drawn to, from a passion to experience a new culture, new land or simply to explore and experience life in some place that is foreign to us.  Then there’s Iceland, which offers all of that and then some!!

Often when booking trips, I do a bit of preliminary research, “instagram scouring” and the like, though I typically wait to commit to plans, until I’ve had a chance to take in some of the local suggestions to ensure I’m fully able to indulge in all the flavors, sights and culture of the country once there.

I grabbed a gal pal, scored a deal on WOW Air, booked a spectacular Airbnb flat and off we went.  We arrived at the crack of dawn on a freeeeeeezing winter day, after no sleep on your standard red eye and yet fired up and inspired to take it all in.  We took the first day to wander the streets and harbor of Reykjavik.  It’s a quaint little city and quite small indeed.  In fact, the entire population of Iceland is approximately 300,000 so you can imagine, the city tends to feel rather familiar in no time at all.  Which, in turn, makes it even more welcoming!  In fact, it’s so small that even as we drove for hours and miles out in the middle of nowhere, we still managed to run into the same couple all around the Island- on three separate occasions.  Sadly, however, this did not mean a run-in with Bjork as I was hoping.

After checking out our new “home” for the next week we headed off to check out Þingvellir National Park, which is a beautiful drive through vast snow covered, and at times, quite barren land.  With that being said, let me suggest that whenever there’s a gas station along the drive whether on the golden circle or simply around Iceland- stop.  This was suggested to me and I was beyond thankful to be overly cautious about it as there were times when it felt as though gas or no gas, you could easily get stranded out on the road.  The funny thing about Iceland is you’ll see at many souvenir shops items that say: I Survived Iceland.  And although funny and cheeky in some ways, it’s legit.  From the driving to some activities- it can be an bit intense experience. From within the park, we toured around the see the famous Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall that are located within the park.  They’re in close proximity to one another, so it’s a great way to check off and enjoy both wonders in the same afternoon.

Day 2, after a few drinks celebrating our arrival and first night out…oh and a few hours of sleep (Jet lag….what’s Jet lag when you’re running on pure adrenaline and enthusiasm!) , we were once again off for another day of exploration.  We arrived again in the park with some time to spare for a hike around to see some sights before our first Icelandic adventure began.  Snorkeling in a balmy -2 degrees celsius at Silfra.  This is the only place in the world where you can dive between two continents   Although the thought of immersing yourself in such frigid waters for a tour seems not overly welcoming, it is by far something that must be seen.  So, toughen up for an hour or so, throw on your flippers and dive on in!  The stunning turquoise waters and unique experience will be worth your while.  Plus, when else can you swim between and touch two continents at the same time.  Don’t miss it.

As you venture off throughout the country, be sure to keep your eye out for the Icelandic horses, typically hanging out on the side of the road…simply waiting for your arrival and adoration.  Which is not hard to do, as they are simply adorable creatures!  In fact, there is much to see along the way.  From waterfalls on the side of the road, to stunning landscapes for miles and miles, the road trip itself reinforces the idea of enjoying the journey….not just the destination.  So, with some good tunes, a full tank of gas, a big cup of Joe and a spirit ready for adventure, the road and all it’s sights await you within Iceland.  Enjoy the ride!

 

 

Travel

Portlandia. Land of the nicest people in America.

I’m not one who has cable.  Havent had it for several years, come to think of it.  So when everyone talks about Portlandia, I don’t have much of a reference point other than I’ve understood Portland to be a very earthy, hipster vibe, somewhat wierd like Austin, kind of town.  Last weekend, I had the chance to sample it for myself.  I had a Southwest voucher that was about to expire and I’ve always wanted to check out Oregon, so off I went.  To explore.  To venture into new territory.

Luckily, one of my besties lives in Washington, so she hopped onto my last minute journey and met me there.  This was a quick trip, so time was of the essence.  Although I arrrived late, so we decided to check out Departures at The Nines.  This was our kind of place- late night dining, fabulous views with a rooftop to boot, we enjoyed plenty of QT to catch up while sipping in the best of Portland.  And this was just the beginning.

We ended our evening around 3, when I simply couldn’t form sentences any longer….and were up bright and early at 8 am.   How can you not be when there are Voodoo Doughnuts to enjoy and an entirely new city to explore.  We, however, opted for an experience at Hunnymilk to start our day.  A funky little, pizza place at night, turned brunch spot on the weekends.  I heard about this place from a friend who suggested I go as Alex, the owners girlfriend, hosts inspired brunches that encourage letter writing and creativity.  She provides everything you would need to explore your creative writing…and or to simply put together a quick “Thinking of you.”  Hunnymilk offers an incredibly welcoming experience and unique food offerings as well.  I’d highly suggest a weekend stop-in.

After my sugar high kicked in (from indulging in a Mimosa (Think: Ice Cream Float), Waffles with Whip and Sprinkles and a Egg Sammy on a doughnut, complimented with maple goodness bacon.  How I made it through the rest of the day, still impressed…though it was worth the caloric overload.

Needless to say, we needed to work it out so off to Forest Park we went to enjoy America’s largest urban forest.  This place is absolutely picturesque and exactly what I envisioned Oregon looking like.  From it’s lush forestry to the incredibly enticing smell of Dirt.  Or perhaps its fresh air.  From the moment you step off the plane, you can smell the intoxicating scent of Nature.  Ahhhhh, Clean air and plenty of it.

After a quick change, we decided to check out some shopping.  I mean, it is a girls trip afterall.   And Shopping in Oregon is TAX FREE.  Need I say more?  There were many adorable boutiques downtown, and especially in the Pearl District.  Although it is tax free shopping, to be honest, I found most stores to be fairly pricey.   We lucked out, as there was a sample sale happening where I picked up a few pieces at a much sweeter price.  We also stopped into Radish Boutique.  They had a variety of eclectic and rather darling items.  Some of which were, coincidentally from San Diego.  Though the best thing about this place was the sweet woman working.  She gave us the most amazing referral of places to go that night.  And I can honestly say that all of the places we made it to were Insane!

Which leads me to the fact that people in Portland may just be the nicest people in the America.  Helpful…Actually courteous…Down home relatability.  Not only friendly, but helpful to guide you on your path….or create a path for you!  Which was more of the case for me, this trip, being a first timer to this lovely city.

Here’s what I’d say about the Nightlife:
Kennedy School– sadly, a missed opportunity, though I hear its quite the unique spot to enjoy a great night out in Portlandia.  However, our night started off with a stop off to Rontom’s – a sweet spot with a stellar patio.  Dark and ambient inside, fire places and cozy seating featured throughout the inside…with the same dark essence continued outside on the patio.  Picnic tables and communal seating makes for a fun way to connect with people. Coming from Southern California, this was quite refreshing to see that people actually go out to mix and mingle with other people!  Loved it…social scene, above par!

Next stop on our grassroots tour de Portland…
Doug Fir.  This place, upon arrival was reminiscent of a former Denny’s location, converted into a bustling nightscene.  From restaurant, to the bar, to the downstairs live music venue-even a gigantic Sasquatch to grab a selfie with….essential.  This place is great!  And thats just the inside.  Outside, there are cozy fire pits where our meeting of new friends continued.  In fact, my friend and I picked up an adorable couple who was too much fun to leave behind as we departed for our next and final stop to Dig a Pony.  From the outside it actually appeared to be a chill restaurant vibe, and yet it couldnt be further from the truth as this place was going off!  The DJ was spinning old school jams that I’m sure most of the crowd had never even heard of before and yet it didn’t matter.  Old school, new school.

The last dance came and went and it was time for us to say good night to a new and certainly adored city of Portland.  Thanks for the good vibes, good tunes and the hospitality that made it most memorable.  I heart u Portlandia. xo

 

Culture

Who takes the Bus?

When in Rio a few years ago, we took the bus to go from Leblon to Copacabana and to be honest I was a bit snobbish about it. I thought…Who takes the bus? However, my ignorance was based on the fact that Americans don’t often take the bus. Nor much public transportation for that matter. Especially in Southern California. The east coast, certainly a bit more, especially in the larger metro areas of Ny, Philly and DC. Though I’ve realize why. It’s highly inefficient there.

When working for Westfield I had a meeting in LA and refused to sit one more early and long morning in that insane 405 traffic. So I decided to take the train. Why not!  The train station is a mere two blocks from my little neighborhood of little Italy and seemed rather convenient and a nice experience. And it was. As For anyone who has taken the train along the Southern California coast will most likely agree that it is picturesque, as you travel along the spectacular coastline. However once you arrive in LA. That’s where the inefficiently comes into play. Upon arrival I had to then call an Uber to take a 45 minute ride to my office. And this was after 3 hours on the train. Mind you, without traffic LA is technically only a 2 hour drive. Though no traffic and LA really never go together. As I’ve even been stuck in traffic on the freeway in the middle of the night-Its that bad!
I arrived safely 4 hours later to my 4 hour meeting to then turn around and carpool with a colleagues for 5 hours home on the freeway. I’ve never been great with math though I can tell you that a 9 hour commute for a 4 hour meeting doesn’t seem to make much sense.  Put simply, that’s a commute that doesn’t compute!
So now. Here I am in Paris. No car. At the “mercy” of public transport. And I have to say I’m delightfully surprised at how well I’ve taken to it all!
For my final weeks of living in Paris, I’m residing in the “burbs” for yet another experience of my life in France. So, to get to the city of lights, I now either walk 30 minutes to the metro, or take a bus to the station, though you never quite know when it will show. Though I must say, it’s quite nice.  No worries about stressing on the freeway…Nutty drivers, commuters eating a breakfast burrito with one hand and applying mascara with the other. Just once in awhile, having to manage a fellow metro passenger nutcase.  And yes there are plenty of those. Nonetheless, it has been a delightful experience taking on the public transportation. And I can only hope that the states someday, somehow, someway find a way to offer efficient public transportation in future. Better for the environment and certainly better for our sanity!  Plus there’s often great entertainment in the corridors of the metro, even on the train themselves. Not to mention it’s been a great “life lesson” in seeing others be courteous to one another and showing random acts of kindness. Letting the elderly and or the ladies take their seat when the metro is packed like sardines or in helping an older woman bring her heavy suitcase up the metro stairs.  All of it truly warms my heart.  Manners….ahhh…oh so refreshing.  Now if only some of the smells on the metro were just as refreshing, we’d be fairly close to perfection!
Fashion

From LANCASTER to Paris with Lancaster Paris

I walked along Rue St Honore today to visit some of the most spectacular boutiques close to the Louvre, on my way to the Madeleine and I stumbled upon Lancaster, Paris!  How perfect is this brand for me, being I’m FROM Lancaster and now RESIDE in Paris?  I simply must have a bag from here!

Upon entering, it truly felt like a candy store for bag ladies like myself.  Every color you could imagine is offered here.  In lovely Italian Saffiano leather, these bags are truly exceptional and well priced, I might add.  This gorgeous green clutch (and messenger bag) as it comes with it’s very own matching leather strap was only 59 euro!  I’ve seen plenty of pleather bags that I wouldn’t pay anything for and are priced higher than this genuine leather beauty that will be with me for years to come!

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It’s tough for a gal like myself when there are so many truly beautiful options.  Not only in colors, but in shapes, sizes- envelope versus basic clutch…you see the dilemma!  And that’s just for their more standard collection.  Then, they have crocodile stamped leathers, or the just as fabulous- python options which were fabulous as well.  What’s a girl to do?  Thankfully I had some assistance.

Fabien, their very knowledgable associate, assisted me in not only further educating me on the brand, but also helping me choose the right option for me.  As it turns out, Lancaster Paris has been around for 25 years, offering lovely leathers mostly in France.  Good news for fellow Americans like myself, they have just opened showrooms in NY and LA so there’s hope that soon we, too, will have the opportunity to score some of these beautiful bags stateside soon!

 

Fashion

Scarfs and STRIPES forever *****

Gallery

Ok, so maybe not the Stars, though no doubt the Scarfs and the Stripes.  I’ve always thought of Parisians as wearing stripes, a beret and having a baguette in tow, each day.  And I have to say, I’m fairly close.  Maybe not so much the beret, but certainly stripes and baguettes.  And why wouldn’t you?  Paris by far, has the best bread around!  I honestly have no problem eating just a baguette for a meal, by itself-it’s That GOOD!  I’ve even heard they bake their baguettes with less glutens, which in my minds means it’s “healthy” and delicious….and guilt free!

Though as for the other French traditions it seems to be quite true. As I was a bit surprised to find that from Souvenir shops, to locals alike, Stripes can be seen everywhere in this town.  Which suits me just fine as I tend to think that stripes are just another Basic, like a plain colored tee.  I’ve historically not been much of a “print wearing kind of gal” that is until I started working with and representing brands like Custo Barcelona, Desigual and other International brands that have forced me to branch out of my traditional/classic mold.  Again, I was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania- not really a place where they honor and cherish fashion per se. Though I have to say that  I simply love the fact that Parisians love their stripes!

As for scarfs- yet another must have item while in Paris.  It tends to rain a fair amount here. Which, quite honestly was news to me.  So along with your handy dandy umbrella, a scarf is another essential. Not only to change up and add a little “Je ne sais quoi” but also as a way to cover your newly coiffed “Do” and/ or to cover up and keep you from the chill in the air, especially during a sporadic and almost always guaranteed rain storm. As you’re bound to get caught in one!  So embrace the romance of these refreshing storms, just don’t get caught out in one, or be prepared to do so.

Therefore, if you are to find yourself headed to Paris and are like myself, a big fan of stripes, be sure to pack them up, pack them in…and you’ll fit right in!  All you’ll need is a baguette, in your tote, to finish off the final look and you’re ready for Paris, my sweet!

A True Parisian sporting her stripes...and on a Vespa-perfection!
A True Parisian sporting her stripes…and on a Vespa-perfection!
In true French Fashion...a full family of stripes!
In true French Fashion…a full family of stripes!
Stripes on the rooftop of Gallerie Lafayette. Oh and the at our Eiffel from behind!
Stripes on the rooftop of Gallerie Lafayette. Oh and the at our Eiffel from behind!
Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the Grand Palais, Paris
Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the Grand Palais, Paris
Fashion, Travel

The coldest summer I’ve ever spent was not in San Francisco…

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For my lovely hometown of sunny San Diego, summer is in full swing…Even now in September!   I see many postings from back home, that the heat is simply unbearable for many local San Diegans.  The reality is, and as I’ve always said, summer truly begins in August and goes to at the very least, October in SUN Diego.   In fact, I can recall on many occasions during my fall fashion shows, having  to order several large fans as well as  personal fans for the attendees, so as not to break out into a sweat while checking out some of the best in fall fashion. A bit ironic, wouldn’t you say?

Though I must admit, I just spent the coldest summer I’ve known right here in Paris. Sure there were scorching hot days, especially when traveling via the Metro. However, for the most part, my summer wardrobe quickly expanded to being mostly jackets, long sleeves and pants. Yet another anomaly, as I don’t typically even wear pants back home in Southern California.  Although my nickname for years has been Franci Pants, and part of it due to the fact that I am never seen wearing pants. What can I say, I’m a dress wearing kind of gal. (Even growing up on the east coast, my poor mother would have to put pants on underneath my dresses as a child, as I simply refused to wear pants!)   However, just as the seasons change, so must this girl and her “dressing” habits!  As Paris has certainly changed me.  And it has taught me how to rock some amazing pants, at that!  This, in addition to wearing flats and tennis shoes every day, I’m a new woman…With Parisian influence of course!  I’m sure that my feet are thanking me, for this new way of living, considering the miles I used to walk daily, in my 5 inch heels.

So here I sit, in chilly Paris (now surrendering to the fact that it’s officially fall here), along with my new love of pants and a pair of…need I say it, actually comfortable shoes that don’t pain me?!   I have so much to thank Paris for on this incredible journey of living here over the last few months and I suppose that my feet and  my new wardrobe shall give a little  thanks as well.

The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco. – Mark Twain  (I’m sure if Mr. Twain were here with me, he would probably agree that it’s been a fairly chilly summer/early fall here in Pareeee)

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