my french country home

the bilingual family

2012-03-10T23:24:00.000+01:00

Our family is bilingual. Not such a big deal, there are millions of bilingual families on the planet, but sometimes I am asked about bringing children up bilingually.

I am British, my husband is French and our four children are born and raised in France. Here in Normandy we don't have access to bilingual schools so any English input had to happen at home.

We adopted the rule 'speak to Mummy in English to Papa in French". This worked for us because I was at home with the children and I spoke the 'foreign' language. We used to buy all the childrens' videocassetes

in English, no hardship there, dubbed films just aren't the same.

In the French school system they don't really start reading until 4 to 5 years old, which left me space to teach them to read in English for a year beforehand.

I have always spoken to my children in English, from the delivery room on, I guess before even. And they always speak to me in English. Primary school is the first hurdle because a child who has been all day in a French environment finds it tricky to switch back to English the moment he runs to his Mummy's arms. I remember some sweet conversations:

my son - "Mummy, I fell over in the cour and the maitresse essuied my genou with a mouchoir"

me - "Really?! Shall we try that again ... you fell in the playground and the teacher wiped your knee with a handkerchief? .... well that was kind of her"

Franglais had to be banned, it's too easy to lapse into a mix of languages, using whichever word springs to mind first.

Our dinner table held some surprises for guests. I remember my eldest, then 4 years old, coming to the table with dessert plates and working his way around the room "one for you, and one for you, and une pour toi and .... are you English ou Français?"

Today I can say they are perfectly bilingual, and able to pass themselves off as either English or French. Between them I have noticed that a funny set of codes has developed unnoticed. They generally speak to each other in the language being used around them, when alone together (can I say that?!) the boys use English and the girls mostly use English until they are on horseback then it is only French - go figure.

Being bilingual seems to be an advantage at school and professionally, but in those early years the main motivation was being able to communicate with both sides of the family.

In the anglo saxon world I read that there is less and less enthusiasm for learning foreign languages - this seems a shame to me. It's not only about vocabulary and grammar, it's also about opening up to a different culture, and in today's world we surely need to do that more and more.

What do you think? Do you also live bi- or multi-lingually?

Wishing you a happy and talkative weekend - in whichever language you care to favour.

Thank you for reading me.

French orange season and my marmelade recipe

2012-03-09T23:38:00.000+01:00

While down in the South of France, we couldn't help but notice all the orange and lemon trees laden down with heavy fruit.

This is the time of year when I like to make marmelade. We can't buy bitter oranges here so I make Three Fruit Marmelade using oranges, lemons and grapefruits. If you would like to have a go, the recipe I use is pretty easy.

To make about 12 pots of jam I use 3 lemons; 3 oranges and 3 grapefruit. I prefer to use organic because all the peel goes into the jam and I'm not wild about eating pesticides.

Cut the fruit into thin slices or even cubes. What you do at this step really depends on whether you like large chunks of fruit in the marmelade, or tiny slithers of peel. Any pips ( or seeds) should be reserved and tied into a loose muslin bag that goes into the pan with the fruit - you need the pectin they produce to make the marmelade set.

Put all the chopped fruit into a huge preserving saucepan and cover with three times the volume of water. Leave to stand for a couple of hours, even overnight, then bring to the boil and simmer for 2 hours uncovered. Remove the bag of pips.

Weigh the contents of the saucepan after cooking and add the equivalent weight of sugar or preserving sugar with some extra pectin (I know, that is a LOAD of sugar, but there's no way around it). Bring back to the boil and cook vigourously for about 40 minutes until it starts to set.

The best way to check for setting point is to have a couple of saucers in your fridge. Pour a little marmelade onto the saucer, let it cool for a couple of minutes then push gently with your finger, if the surface crinkles then you can stop cooking the marmelade.

I leave the marmelade to cool a little in the pan before ladling into pots, covering, labelling and putting away into my jam cupboard to enjoy throughout the year. I love having a plentiful reserve of jams and preserves. We eat a lot ourselves, and I find that a home made pot of jam or marmelade is useful for last minute hostess gifts. French country style.

calm colours in the home

2012-03-08T13:56:00.000+01:00

I am always drawn to this neutral palette that allows so many small details without ever feeling cramped or cluttered.

This beauitful home is in Belgium, and the Belgian style is clearly visible. Bold pieces of furniture, harmonious colours; brocante pieces; all adding to a comfortable family home. I love the mismatched dressers either side of the long dining table.

Against the backdrop of tall ceilings and old double doorways, the modern white chairs do not look out of place; but simply add to the calm and relaxed atmosphere. In the same way that in the top picture they chose modern lampshades instead of chandeliers.

This room seems to be a back kitchen, pots for decoration only, the simplest of cupboards and shelves. The only concession to decoration is the beautiful stone sink and the collection of earthenware confit pots.

It's not always easy to use mansard rooms. Here they get around the lack of vertical wall space by placing two washbasins, one each side of the doorway - charming.

I'll be reaching for my paintbrushes next week and this sort of interior can only inspire me.

All photos thanks to Art et Decoration

gibson goes on holiday

2012-03-07T20:52:00.003+01:00

If Gibson is looking blue, it's because he is home after his holiday where he had such a good time it is hard to re-adjust! :)

We did not take Gibson with us to Nice, even though Ghetto would have loved to see him. Gibson had his own agenda .... Our very kind friends P and D invited Gibson to stay and join in the action packed week planned for their grandchildren and thought that Gibson may like to join in.

Amongst the activities planned for the week were learning to use a compass, how to tie a good knot, how to light a campfire when you haven't any matches and how to cook sausages. The sort of French country survival course that any self respecting Golden Retriever would simply love.

The evening before we left, Gibson packed his new cushion, his lead and collar and an unreasonable quantity of tennis balls.

What can I say? Gibson arrived a day after the granchildren so unfortunately missed the lesson on knot tying and the practice run with the compass around the swimming pool, but I am told that despite this lack of preparation he was with the winning team on the orienteering course and also selflessly volunteered to test the sausages, in case they weren't cooked properly.

Gibson asked me to pass on his thanks for the lovely week he had; that he adored the numerous walks each day! and to repeat that if ever they need another sausage tester that he's their dog.

He's not really as miserable as he looks on these pictures, but it's raining hard here and he's wondering why we haven't been for a walk this afternoon.

Gibson also asked me to show you that his new cushion is an incredibly fashionable combination of grain sack and vintage ticking ..... Don't ever tell me it's a dog's life.

brocante hunting in Nice

2012-03-07T00:42:00.001+01:00

I know, I know that I said this was family time, but I've had a little time to spare and two brocante opportunities just jumped up at me, plus I had to find a gift so here are a few shots of finding brocante in Nice. Not quite as much fun as Normandy but still enjoyable.

If you are in Nice this summer, my recommendations for finding brocante are each afternoon in the Puces de Nice, a sort of tiny flea market on the Port, and every Monday morning on the Cours Saleya - worth while getting there early!

Luckily Ghetto was around, helping me choose ....

And what did I choose as the gift? .... these beautiful barbotine plates, 100 years old, made by Sarreguemines.

Thank you for reading me, tomorrow I'll be home and back in the swing of things!

musee fragonard - a home to perfume

2012-03-04T10:15:00.002+01:00

In the small town of Grasse in the hills behind Cannes is the century old house of Fragonard, creating perfume since 1782.

The Fragonard museum is open to the public, explaining the history of the company and more. Fragonard not only tells the story behind the magic of making perfume, they also have a foundation, a charming boutique and a museum of provencal costume.

Fragonard may have a prestigious name but they have moved with the times and understood the importance of good design and marketing.

Their little soaps are one of my very favourite hostess gifts

Another one of my recommended places to stop when you are next on the Cote d'Azur!

architecture in the south

2012-03-03T09:14:00.000+01:00

just a couple of facades that caught my eye ......

mimosa et la cote d'azur

2012-03-02T18:15:00.001+01:00

I'm taking a few days break, in the South of France, visiting with family, relaxing, low key, ... zen

Here it is the season for mimosas, bright yellow, heavy scented, growing wild in the hills all along the Côte d'Azur.

I love the perfume of this flower, linked to happy memories, visions of small towns here in the South.

During this week I'll be posting a few simple bits and pieces from the south, places to visit, moments to remember .. nothing too ambitious.

Wishing you a long slow zen weekend ...

the valley through the seasons

2012-03-01T17:23:00.000+01:00

Driving home this week, I pulled off the road as we reached the valley and got out my camera. I sensed a little bristling of impatience in the car "Mummy, why do you need another picture of that view, you've got loads already?!" He was right of course ... my son, cutting down to the essential in life. Shame that my essential and his essential don't always coincide ....

So - angel that he is - he bore with me for a whole 45 seconds while I clicked away, happy and then we were back en route, relieved, content and in the throws of a discussion about when is a picture not just a picture, and what is a good picture anyway!!

I'm sure he got out the car thinking, "that's it, she's lost it!" ... but that doesn't matter.

So what was the view that couldn't wait? This little road that winds its way down to our village, my eye is always drawn to the solitary tree and the soft colours that change so beautifully through the season.

See what you think ....

No matter what my children say, I'll still take the pictures and I still enjoy those short moments in the day when I stop dead in my tracks and say Yes!

French windows - where to buy the real thing!

2012-03-01T00:10:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I showed you my favourite pictures of the beautiful œil de boeuf windows on the rooftops of France. and I promised to tell you where they can be found today if you want one in your home.

These window frames look beautiful hung on a wall as they are or used as mirror frames. The very heavy pieces look great propped up against a wall.

It is unusual to find œil de boeuf frames for sale in brocante fairs. The only reason they would be dismounted from their rooftop would be if a house was being pulled down or if the window frame was badly damaged and in need of repair.

But I do know a good address ...... Atelier de Campagne is a name known to many in the blogging world. The team of Trinidad, Martin and Johan work tirelessly to find, restore and supply to their discerning clients all over the world. Their blog and their facebook page are fun to follow and a good way of keeping up to date with sales.

I have never had the opportunity to visit them in California, but we have spoken on the phone and I'm looking forward to meeting them here this summer.

Trinidad and Martin are based in California, taking care of their clients at the Center Street Antiques store and fielding all enquiries. Johan is Belgian and he does a lot of the sourcing. We joked on the phone about the joys of getting up WAY too early, or even missing a night's sleep to be sure of finding the best pieces at a fair.

But look well how it pays off!!

They fill a container in Europe and ship it back to California where it is unpacked with care and prepared
for their famous sales. In fact the next container sale is quite soon; April 7th and 8th.

If you love the authentic French look, and want the real thing, not reproduction then this is the address for you. Just take a look at the photos of the goodies already on their way back and if you need any details give them a call or drop them a line. You can also sign up for their newsletter here.

l'œil de boeuf - the oh-so-French window

2012-02-28T23:56:00.000+01:00

The French term 'œil de boeuf' literally means 'bulls eye', but in architecture refers to the round or oval window most often found peeking out of a slate grey roof.

My favourite œil de boeuf are zinc, sometimes simple and sometimes gloriously ornate, with motifs such as this oak wreath.

There are country versions of the window too, more modest, less imposing but just as French and equally charming.

I love this shot with the curtains behind, makes you wonder what sweet room is hidden here.

In Paris if you walk around with your nose in the air as much as I do, you'll spot œil de boeuf carved into the stone facades.

or in symmetrical rows

Tomorrow I'll show you some great ways to use œil de boeuf indoors, and tell you where you can buy the real thing!

living with patina

2012-02-27T22:45:00.003+01:00

One thing I have learnt through buying beautiful brocante pieces full of character and patina is that it's one thing to buy, it's another to use the treasures in a home without looking like a showroom or an antiques mall!

The pictures are from a home south of Paris, belonging to two devoted collectors. They bought and restored the house with their brocante pieces in mind. There are good ideas to borrow in every picture.

In the bedroom they use at least four gold mirrors , the colours are kept soft and provide a perfect backdrop for the shine of silver candlesticks and gold frames.

In the kitchen they have made a backsplash to the sink with an iron decorative plaque orginally designed for a fireplace. Central to the wall, above the tiles, is a 'fronton', a piece of carved wood that has been taken from the top of an armoire.

A lot of 'things' in this room, maybe a little too many. I spy fishing floats on the side table, gold frames inside gold frames on the wall, antlers, antique paintings and lamps. Still the soft colours to keep it calm.

I love the use of this large urn, designed for the garden but brought inside and used as a planter on the table.

How pretty are these turquoise plates urns and bottles! Used in the wrong way they would just look cluttered, here they stand out beautifully against the muted grey of the open armoire.

My favourite part of this inviting vignette is the zinc 'faitage' originally used to decorate rooftops and used here to disguise the join between the glass veranda and the rest of the room.

Thank you for stopping by, hope your week is off to a good start.

all photos with thanks to Campagne et Decoration

dashing French actors

2012-02-26T22:48:00.002+01:00

I know your fascination with good looking French mutts, so with the Oscars coming up this evening I couldn't resist taking you by the collar and leading you to France's hairiest star ... Uggy.

Don't know if he'll be trotting up the red carpet tonight, after all he has already taken the biscuit with his Golden Collar award as well as the Dog's award at Cannes, and I've heard he's enjoying putting his paws up for a while.

The producers of the film were told they were barking mad to make a silent movie. So far it seems the critics were barking up the wrong tree. I'm sure the ceremony will be as enjoyable as ever, and I wish the best of luck to The Artist, the most daring film on our screens this year!

blogging vs. pinterest or the importance of instant gratification

2012-02-25T23:34:00.001+01:00

People keep telling me that blogs are on their way out, swept aside by the allure of pinterest and tumblr; an instant fix of happiness through pictures only......

Hmmm....

We all know that blogging is fun, otherwise I wouldn't be sitting here typing these words, and you wouldn't have come over to check me out. But are we getting lazy? Do we have shorter and shorter attention spans?

There are some amazing tumblr blogs, where the author collects fantastic pictures and simply posts them: no text, no opportunity to comment, no interaction. It seems to me that Tumblr is about a quick fix of instant beauty, while Blogger gives more entertainment and a real chance to interact. Pinterest seems close to Tumblr, although the board system is very revealing about the author, and of course the source of the pictures is out in public, providing a useful tool to blogs trying to drive new traffic in.

Personally, I love to blog and to interact with my readers. I love to visit blogs that are well written, they make me think, they make me laugh, and sometimes they make me cry; the quality of blogs in our blogosphere is truly impressive.

I pin a little ... because I feel I should. I don't like everything about Pinterest, and mostly I prefer to file pictures on my computer rather than showing the world what interests me.

I use the facebook page for the blog to give a daily, or thrice daily shot of beauty. I show pictures with extra appeal, that compliment the blog.

I can only say what I do personally,.....but how are you adapting to the new choices and offers that seem to evolve daily?

One thing is for sure, in a years time there'll be something new and we'll all be scurrying to adapt. At least it keeps us on our toes!

Bon weekend mes amis!

PS Thank you for all the input and great comments, also for the emails. Something that not everybody seems to realise that is kind of fun: if you have a blog you can find the page that shows exactly what is being pinned from your blog, very interesting to see how readers interact with each post and which are their favourite pics! :)

To find your page just enter http://pinterest.com/source/YOUR BLOG ADDRESS/

Have fun! :)

a potato bake for the weekend and a giveaway winner

2012-02-25T01:03:00.000+01:00

Comfort food can be a good idea for this dreary end of winter season; a favourite comforter in our home is the traditional French Gratin Dauphinois. Sliced potatoes in cream, cooked long and slow in the oven until the cream is absorbed and the potatoes just melt in your mouth.

Another easy recipe, here the ingredients are for a good sized shallow oven dish. Ostensibly for 8, but with the appetites around my table I reckon on 6 servings!

2kg or 5 pounds of potatoes

2/3 cloves of garlic

2 cups of cream or cream and milk mix

100 g butter

salt and pepper

grated nutmeg

Peel and slice thinly the potatoes, but don't rinse them, the starch in the potatoes adds to the creaminess of the dish.

In a pan heat the cream or the cream and milk mix, drop in the potatoes slices and let them cook, very gently, for less than 10 minutes.

Rub the garlic and part of the butter around your oven dish, then pour the potatoes and cream into the dish, making sure that there is enough cream to cover the potatoes. Cut the remaining butter into little cubes and dot over the surface. (I know, I know, I never said this was a slimming dish!)

Bake in a preheated oven (180°, gas mark 4) for about an hour. The top should be crispy golden brown, and the potatoes soft and creamy.

This dish is perfect with red meat and a good side salad.

Finally, I am happy to announce that the winner of the Parisienne Farmgirl giveaway is Jeanne of I Dream Of. If you don't know her lovely blog, then I invite you to pop over and say hello. And Jeanne, if you want to email me with your address you'll receive your scented candle and the subscription to the Parisienne Farmgirl magazine! Lucky girl!!

I hope you all have something wonderful planned for this weekend, thank you for reading me, à demain!

the piano in a french kitchen

2012-02-23T21:24:00.001+01:00

I must have grown up some because I am beginning to realise how dangerous it can be to assume. You see I always assumed I would one day play the piano ... the musical piano of course, but also the culinary piano.

'Le Piano' the crown to any self respecting kitchen, hub of the homestead, pride of the family in all its shining glory.

Strangely these assumptions haven't been realised, and of course I have survived. I can tinkle out a little tune on the musical piano in our dining room, and I have cooked huge meals for years quite happily on a regular hob and separate ovens, but in a dark, seldom revealed, corner of my heart there is still a little hankering going on!

It's not only the allure of the sleek steel, and shiny enamel, nor even the brass knobs and buttons. It's also the huge oven space and the challenge of learning how to tame the beast!

So to console myself and to inspire you to hanker too, here are a few of my favourite piano pics....and a question - please tell me .....

what did you always assume you would achieve or possess one day that simply hasn't come to pass?

martha's shutters

2012-02-23T10:14:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I shared with you some of my favourite shutter shots, and today as promised I want to tell you about a talented lady, a friend of mine, who repurposes old shutters for use inside the home, as well as creating other beautiful screens and bedheads.

Martha Alberti works from her Linen Flower Studios in Marietta, and uses her expertise in paint finishes to create and restore. This beautiful fire screen is a new item to her store, don't you love the personalised monogram?

She also applies monograms to the bedheads she makes, and can supply the letters required by each client.

Martha is married to the French artist Fabrice Alberti, and although they lived near us in France for many years, they are now based in Marietta, US. Their home is witness to their incredible talent and sure eye.

Martha lives by the motto, "Start where you are, Use what you have, Do what you can". She loves to rescue old and unremarkable furntiure and transform it into something special. In her own home she has painted her kitchen cabinets, tables, shelves as well as larger items such as armoires.

Clients bring her pieces of furniture that are too good to throw out, and that can be transformed by Martha into beautiful 'antiques' with real age and character. She spends a lot of time, using a combination of paint and waxes to give real depth and patina to each piece she produces.

If you have an old pair of shutters at home that you would like to use as a bedhead, Martha will transform them for you, painting and distressing until they are perfectly shabby chic.

Hope you feel inspired, if you would like to contact Martha about her work, just check her out at Linen Flower Studio.

(PS Don't forget about the Parisienne Farmgirl giveaway if you haven't entered yet, last day tomorrow!)

french shutters and great patina

2012-02-21T19:38:00.000+01:00

It would be hard to imagine France without shutters to the windows. Painted and colourful or with a chic and shabby patina, they are to be found all over the country, from North to South.

They can be fitted to doors as well as to windows.

In France we like our shutters on the outside of the windows. They are there for added security when closing up the house, for temperature control when it gets very hot or very cold. If the shutters open out then the windows have to open into the rooms. This can sound strange and baffling, but when it gets hot, to have the windows open and the shutters pulled shut is a wonderful way to control temperature inside the house.

To my eye they are the most beautiful when their patina blends them into the surrounding walls and colours.

Part of the beauty of the old French shutters is the hardware. Generally a central handle that lifts or raises vertical rods ( cremone) to lock the shutter.

And to keep the shutters open, flat against the wall there are 'arrets', on our house we have these sweet little faces holding the shutters back.

In the South of France where the temperatures soar, the shutters, called 'persiennes' often have this added element that allows the lower part of the shutter to be opened vertically to let in some light.

Today, we love the colour and texture of shutters so much that they are brought inside and repurposed.

Tomorrow I shall be showing you the work of a talented lady who does just that and who works magic with her wonderful patina paint techniques.

A demain!

out and about this morning

2012-02-20T21:58:00.000+01:00

Chores to do this morning, not in the house though, all over the valley. Children to take to school at sunrise; groceries to buy and then hay, hay and more hay - enough to see us through till the spring brings green grass for the horses. Thank goodness I'm not allergic!

It all made for a lot of driving, made easier by taking my camera along for the ride. When I came home and looked at my photos I realised that I had watched the valley thaw out from the night frost!

Hope your week is getting off to a good start.

lifting the curtain on the new brocante season HOORAH!!

2012-02-19T23:23:00.000+01:00

The first fair of the season this morning , (well almost, I could have gone to one last week but it was -15°, and the fair was outside so ... no ... I didn't think so).

This morning I was out before dawn. Not many photos to show you I'm afraid, mostly because I didn't have my camera with me when I got up at 5 . Why no camera? ... Because it was raining! the sort of ultra fine, misty, trickling-down-your-neck sort of rain that cameras are allergic to.

So a few quick pics of the goodies I came home with, just to warm us up for the coming season. It wasn't a huge haul, and strangely monochromatic, but it sufficed to make me happy.

See what you think ....

An old cup commemorating Napoleon's Egyptian campaign.

A sweet little water edge landscape

A very badly damaged, but amusing view of the Champs Elysees, as I have never seen them!

Some bistrot brulot, I like these more and more and buy them whenever I have the chance

Some pretty coupelles for candle holders, a ton of ventouses for individual flower heads

and a lovely old piece of toile de Jouy.

and finally

rather a nice old perfume box, by Jean Patou

Voila! .... My son has just looked over my shoulder and said "they don't want to see all that stuff Mummy!".

If he is right, I apologise, if he is wrong then thank you for reading down to the end!

And finally, don't forget that if you would like to treasure hunt here in September, there are still a few places left on the brocante tour that I will be hosting for Tea Garden Travel. For details click here!

Bon weekend!

PS. It's a busy weekend so there's no way any of this stuff will be listed in the store before next week. If something catches your eye, don't hesitate to email me and I'll give you the details. Thank you!

a château garden in the Loire valley

2012-02-17T19:44:00.000+01:00

Spring really does seem to be just around the corner now that the snow has melted, the days grow longer and the birds are beginning to sing more loudly! Inevitably thoughts turn to the garden, ambitious projects are formed, ideas grow like tiny seeds planted in an old clay pot.

Inspiration comes from this beautiful garden in the Loire valley, home to so many châteaux. This pretty château, called La Verrerie, was built at the end of the 18th century. At the time the garden would have been very formal, more shrubs than flowers, Clipped box and hornbeam would have formed alleys, walls and paths.

Today the owners of the château have preserved the very French feel, but softened it and made it feel more comfortable with the addition of roses and mixed flower beds.

They have had fun in the potager as well, where fine use is made of a collection of antique glass cloches. These bells date from the 18th century and were used to protect fragile young plants; individual greenhouses in effect. They were originally made with a glass button on the top, but most often, as we see here that is broken off to avoid the magnifying effect of the sun burning the plants beneath.

I love the next picture because I can so imagine a dinner table laid out beneath this old oak tree (remember that bugs aren't a problem here!) . These vintage metal hoops, mounted with candle holders bring a touch of modern sculpture to the classic setting. Just think how beautiful it would look in the evening, with candles lit.

Special thanks to Jerome of Maison du Lin, who tells me that this château is actually a B&B, and that he has stayed there!! Lucky man! You can visit their site for all the details but here's a teaser on a couple of the rooms

Voilà! A beautiful and classical French château setting that has moved with the times to fit comfortably around a family home. I wish you all a happy weekend, dreaming of your garden plans.

Don't forget to enter the Parisienne Farmgirl giveaway, a magazine subscription and scented candle are there to be won!

all photos thanks to Mon Jardin et ma Maison and also to La Verriere

a fantastic giveaway from Parisienne Farmgirl

2012-02-16T22:07:00.001+01:00

I am thrilled to welcome Parisienne Farmgirl as a new sponsor to MFCH. The Creator and Editor Angela writes the blog Parsienne Farmgirl that you may already be familiar with , and on the 1st April she is heading for a huge new adventure with the launch of her very own e-magazine.

- Hi Angela, welcome to My French Country Home! When I read Parisienne Farmgirl, I can see that you are very family oriented. You have 4 beautiful children, we know that your mother writes another great blog, Savvy City Farmer; how important is family to you?

My family is definitely my number one priority. I am very selective about what I do outside of the home and am very "home-centered". When I do get out for some "Momma time" it's very refreshing and much needed, but I really enjoy taking care of my family.

- I'm amazed at how much you get done with four small children to care for; not only the blog but you school your children; sew clothes, cook and bake and now you are launching an e-magazine!

Would you like to tell us a little about your daily routine and your priorities. (dear readers, you may want to sit down before seeing the next bit - it's exhausting !! :)

Girls tease me about that often. You know, I don't really do it all. I wake up every morning thinking, "How much can I cram into this day? From creating a new cake recipe to working out but I never get to it all, Not one does, no matter how gorgeous a blog they create! LOL! I stick pretty close to home and I am very task orientated to I accomplish a lot even with homeschooling and a new baby but let's be real, something always gives ... if it's a high macaron production week in the kitchen the laundry suffers a bit you know?

I do a lot of planning ahead from meals to what the children are going to wer to church on Sunday, it saves my brain from freaking out when things really get moving. I do love to work and we don't have TV so I suppose I save a bit of time there. It's a flattering question of course but we are all the same aren't we? No one does it all - we all have days where we just need a good shampoo and some time to clean out our fridge!

- What gave you the idea for the magazine and who are you hoping to reach?

I have to say that I receive the MOST encouraging emails from women throughout the week. Goodness knows I am not the craftiest person out there, I only sew occasionally, I am not creating and photographing new recipes every other day, nor can I shop for treasures the way I wish I could but there seems to be something about the Parisienne Farmgirl concept that has struck a chord. Those who live in the city are intrigued by a slower, homespun way of life and what country girl doesn't dream of being an ultra chic city girl?

The idea of the magazine feels so comfortable. Simply stated I want to reach women who are looking to carve out a more beautiful life for themselves and their families.

- There is a very strong womanly feel around your blog and your pictures. How do you explain that blogging is so popular with women?

Oh, I have to say, I am glad you noticed! How dull to run around and try to be like a man all the time! I love femininity and I don't really mean frilly and lace. I mean embracing femininity in everything from our clothing to allowing ourselves to fall head over heals in love with taking care of our families. I firmly believe that blogging has been such a success with women because we are dying for friendships and for affinity. These days so many women work, we are spread all over the place... it's difficult to make like-minded friendships. Blogging opens up an entire world for women who would never have time to make those kinds of friends. It's like the modern day version of the 1950's bridge game!

Tell us more about the magazine ...

So, Parisienne Farmgirl Magazine "Blending Country Life Simplicity with Champs Élysées Sophistication" is all about inspiring and promoting women.

I really want to bless other women with the exposure that has been afforded me in the last couple years. There are a lot of big time girls out there and small time ones... the ones who can actually buy their families groceries thanks to an Etsy sale or two. I want the magazine to be a blessing to them - getting the word out about them! It's going to be a gorgeous publication and we have found the most amazing writers and photographers - all with a Parisienne Farmgirl spin of their own. We want it to be beautiful... heavy on photographs, light on ads.

And - between you, me and your readers I will have my Macaron cook book done and ready for sale by July! Lots of people ask me about my macarons so I am pretty excited about it!

So finally to the giveaway ... Angela is generously offering a year's subscription to anyone joining in the giveaway, and if you have already subscribed, you could be reimbursed. As if that weren't enough, she will also gift this fantastic Linneas Lights scented candle to the winner. The giveaway is open to everyone so don't hold back. To enter simply leave a comment below, telling me that you follow Parisienne Farmgirl, and you have taken a look at the magazine preview , to gain extra entries come back and tell me that you have spread the word on facebook, twitter or pinterest.

Winner announced in a week's time, Thursday 23 February!

it's just a baguette isn't it?!

2012-02-15T18:39:00.000+01:00

With the cold weather and icy roads I have been buying a daily baguette for our elderly neighbours. And it's when you buy bread for somebody else that you understand what an intimate part of French life the humble loaf of bread can be.

An outsider waiting in line to buy fresh bread may notice that each client mutters a few key words as a baguette is being selected for him or her.

"une baguette s'il vous plait, pas trop cuite" (one baguette please, not too cooked)

"deux baguettes, bien cuites, s'il vous plait" (two baguettes, well cooked please)

Regular clients don't even need to say anything about the bread, they just say bonjour, talk about the weather, and the loaf they prefer appears before them.

When I picked up the bread for our neighbours, I asked for our usual loaf then said I'd have "un pain" also, there was a pause ... a raised eyebrow, "ce n'est pas pour vous?", (that's not for you), upon which I'd say no, it's for Monsieur et Madame J, "ah bon! ..... alors voila - this is the bread they take, Monsieur J prefers a good crust".

And it's not just in the countryside that buying bread is so important. Parisians will make huge detours on the way home from work to buy the bread they prefer, rather than from the closest bakers.

Each year there is a prize discerned to the baker producing "la meilleure baguette de Paris" (the best baguette in Paris, I mean ... really?! can you imagine deciding on that one?!). This year it was won by a certain Pascal Barillon who bakes at Au Levain d’Antan . Besides winning the title and a cheque, he also has the honour of being the official baker to the President of France for a year.

So for the whole of 2012, twenty of his humble loaves will go from here ....

to here each day!

What do you think it says about a country, that a simple stick of bread can be so important?!

making magic in the south of France

2012-02-14T23:10:00.001+01:00

There is a magician living in the South of France and she spends her days turning out magical and enchanting creations that sell world over.

Pascale Palun trained as a stylist, took a break to raise her son and began creating at home using old materials she found. Her little pieces of magic started selling locally, she called her company Vox Populi and before she knew it she was at the Paris Maison et Objet show and her work was being requested for sale all around the planet.

It seems she can turn her hand to anything, but she has specialised in these delightful lamps and chandeliers. Her miniature lamp 'cages' with tiny vignettes inside are totally charming. I have seen them in a shop near here, they are breathtaking.

These shots are of her work and of her home in Avignon where she has her studio. This girl really understands the art of patina, and the importance of detail.

Hope you enjoyed this little moment of tenderness on St Valentine's Day! Tomorrow I have a new giveaway for you that you won't want to miss!!

all photos thanks to vox populi

st valentin à paris

2012-02-13T22:23:00.001+01:00

So let's say that tomorrow you are planning to surprise your beloved with a beautiful and romantic day in Paris, where to start? what to do? where to end? ......

Here are a few suggestions; I thought you would like to walk around Paris hand in hand, even though it's cold, take in the beauty of the city in its winter colours. I put together a day that includes gasping at the view; enjoying tiny Paris bistrots; buying vintage Chanel; wonderful chocolat chaud; a delicious champagne dinner and the most divine little hotel - tempted? then walk this way .....

A good place to start would be at the Sacré Coeur, overlooking all of Paris. Here you will admire the view, then wander around Montmartre, home to artists for generations , you may even purchase a painting from l'Objet qui parle, the most delicious little brocante in Paris,

then find a small bistrot for lunch like Marguerite

don't take too much time over lunch though because I'd like to get you to the Drouot, the famous Paris auction rooms in time to bid for some beautiful vintage Chanel! Yup, on st valentine's day there is an auction of Chanel collectors items, not as expensive as you may expect .... few things are as exciting as bidding in a salle de vente!

Once you have snapped up your favourite item, then head out towards the river and stop to enjoy a chocolat chaud and beautiful bijoux patisserie Chez Angelina, rue de rivoli.

Time to freshen up so head back to your hotel Le Petit Paris where you will have reserved a beautiful room complete with champagne.

Enjoy the bubbly while you change for dinner then head out, still on foot to the delicious restaurant le Monteverdi, owned by a charming Corsican, Claudio.

I recommend his risotto and a small table in a cosy corner!

Voilà, this would pretty much be an ideal St Valentine's in my eyes, but I hope that you will enjoy yours wherever you are, whatever you do.

Vive l'amour!

Vive le St Valentin!

thanks to google for all pics

a true story from Normandy

2012-02-12T22:18:00.000+01:00

I love to visit churchyards. There is nothing morbid in my enjoyment, more historical. Churchyards attached to the villages here read like history books, the genealogy of a small community laid out in the ground for all to understand.

Just across the valley from us there is a very small church with a beautiful view and a tiny graveyard. The cemetery receives a load of visitors because there is a former French minister and Nobel prize winner buried there, but it's two other graves that caught my attention.

Side by side there are two little tombstones, old and difficult to read, but with some patience you can clearly make out the names of two young girls, and curiously the names are not French but English. This intrigued me for a long while. I imagined a family travelling through the valley early XXth century, a terrible accident, tragic deaths, then burial near by. But that couldn't be the case since the dates on the tombstones are two years apart.

I asked around locally but nobody could remember any accident, or English family around here.

Finally, a while ago, I discovered the truth behind the intrigue.

An English lord came to Normandy with his beautiful young wife, fell in love with the valley and settled here. They had a daughter who sadly died very young of an illness. Two years later they had another daughter, and tragically she also succumbed to the same maladie, which today we'd call genetic. The couple were overcome with sadness but still desired a family and decided to adopt. A baby French girl was found and the family reconstructed their lives, they continued to live in Normandy.

So how did I discover this? .... a history book? No.

One day while walking near the church I saw an elderly lady tidying the tombstones and laying fresh flowers. We chatted about the weather and the view and the peacefulness, she had a pleasant face. I asked if she knew anything about the mysterious English children, she smiled, she seemed pleased that someone was interested. She told me the whole story.

Have you guessed?

She was, of course, the adopted daughter.

french ladies who lunch AND my new favourite recipe

2012-02-11T19:41:00.004+01:00

I'm not really a regular luncher because my days are pretty full, but now and again it's good to take a break with a couple of girlfriends.

That was the case yesterday. Eight amies braved the icy roads to get here. At -7° outside it wasn't the day to arrive in high heels but they still all looked lovely and were pleased to sit down in front of a roaring fire.

This lovely white azalea was gifted in a basket, perfect.

I served them my new favourite dessert and thought you may like to try the recipe too. I have made this twice this week but each time it disappears so fast that I still don't have a decent picture - sorry! you'll have to imagine it in your plate :)

We call this our Fruit Crumble Cake, as with all my recipes it is really easy to make. Good home cooking.

To make the cake you will need a deep 8" cake tin (not loose-bottomed) greaseproof/waxed paper, the oven preheated at 190°.

Ingredients are super simple

125gr (2/3 cup) ground almonds

125 gr (2/3 cup) sugar

250 gr ( 1 good cup) very cold butter

250gr (2 cups) plain flour

pinch of salt

3 apples peeled, cored and diced

cup of fresh/frozen raspberries or blackberries or blueberries

juice of a lemon

good sprinkling of sugar to taste

First of all, in a mixer blend together the cold butter and all other dry ingredients. This must stay crumbly in texture not merge into a firm dough. Very important!

Put the diced apple in a bowl along with the lemon juice, sugar and red fruit of your choice. I have tried blackberries, raspberries and blueberries - all delicious. Toss them around in the bowl until well coated in lemon juice and sugar.

Line the cake tin with two criss-cross , wide strips of waxed paper, these are vital for lifting the cake from the tin, so leave them long enough to hang over each side.

Sprinkle half the mixture into the tin. Do not push down or smooth, you want the mixture to stay as high and airy as possible. Now simply tip the fruit in, then cover with the remaining crumble mix. Again do not attempt to push down or smooth: it will work itself out while cooking.

I stand the cake tin on a tray and bake in a hot oven for about 50 minutes. Ideally the cake should come out of the oven about 15 minutes before eating. Let it stand a while then carefully lift out of the tin and onto a serving platter (4 hands needed here!), slide the paper strips out from beneath the cake, carry to the table and bask happily in the limitless admiration of your diners.

We like to serve this with crème anglaise, but vanilla ice cream would be good too.

bon appetit et bon weekend!

manoir de berthouville - Normandy home to Boston designer Charles Spada

2012-02-10T19:36:00.000+01:00

These wonderful pictures have been doing the rounds I know, so please forgive me if you've seen them already. But since this house lies quite close to us, I felt I sort of had the right to show them too!

This beautiful and traditional Normandy home dates back to the 17th century. It has been lovingly and painstakingly restored by the talented Boston designer Charles Spada. I love his colour palette, not only fashionably today but VERY traditional French for this sort of property.

I don't know how much time Mr Spada spends here but the house looks comfortable and liveable, we have no trouble imagining him entertaining here, or simply enjoying some time out in the calm countryside.

He has found some serious chandeliers for the house, and they look wonderful in these large rooms. The leopard print sofa is a coup de maître!

I am sometimes asked how the French feel when a 'foreigner' swoops in and buys a stunning property like this one. Frankly when you see a restoration of this quality, carried out with such an evident love of French style, I don't see how anyone could possibly object!

teenagers growing up

2012-02-10T01:03:00.000+01:00

My third child, a daughter, turned 17 yesterday and had a lovely, happy carefree day.... It inevitably got me thinking about how we watch them grow, and how their generation differs from ours.

As we approached her birthday, she was dropping 'hints' about things she "really needs". Some hints were tucked away safely and acted upon, others were met with a "hmmmm" and put aside to think on (or forget), and some just made me laugh. I mean, really?! can you tell me what a 17 year old, living in the countryside, could possibly do with a pair of Louboutin?!! Yes, you read that right. Not that she expected me to pay proper Louboutin prices, she was convinced she found a site where they were sold cheaper.....

Whatever..... the question is, when is it time to say "yes, you're right, times have changed, and your generation does need things that we never even dreamt of" and when is it time to say " NO WAY!! Don't even think about it!" ?

Of course this doesn't only apply to gifts and purchases, it is also true for behaviour and boundaries.

As a parent I find myself constantly setting boundaries, and permanently having to judge where they should lie and whether they are flexible. Since my children ~~are quite a strong headed bunch~~ have character (probably not a bad thing in today's competitive world) I tend to set the boundaries too tight for the first round of negotiations, knowing full well what the reaction will be and thus leaving myself a little room for manoeuvre.

When they were little they soon figured that Papa was a softer touch than Maman. A couple of times I said "No" to a daughter only to hear; "it doesn't matter we'll ask daddy, he'll say yes!"

We have got over that now, but there is so much peer pressure around. What is the right time to come home from friends? How closely do you check on a teenage party in the barn? How high do heels have to be?!

I'm not trying to make my children sound like monsters. They are great kids, well balanced and sociable. I adore them, and I'm proud of them. But raising teenagers is a pretty steep learning curve, and by the time the fourth child gets to 18 I'll certainly have learnt a lot, and changed a lot too. "Don't worry, Mummy just needs to grow up" is how I once heard one daughter explain to the other.

Well yes, maybe this Mummy does need to grow up, and most of the time she enjoys the process. But sometimes, just now and again, Mummy doesn't want to be the rule setter, the figure of authority; now and again she just wants to be c-o-o-l.

Thanks for listening to this, I'm sure you have been through some of the same stuff. Some more extreme, some less. Do you think that the world has changed that much in the past 40 years? Do you see eye to eye on everything with your children? I especially wonder about those amazing parents who home school their children, that must really change the way things work out. Or the families where religious faith is central to everyday life, sometimes a comfort and sometimes an added pressure?

I'd really love to hear what your experiences have been. If you'd like to share, as a parent or as a child, what have you come away with?

french china on display

2012-02-08T22:20:00.000+01:00

There seems little point in collecting pretty china if you can never see it. Displaying china has been popular through the generations and is something I still enjoy today. Here are a few examples I found and from my home

It seems to work just as well if we mix and match, not all the same size or the same shape, although many will prefer the uniformity of one colour or one design.

I do have a special affection for old french soupières, or tureens, just love

their silhouette in the first picture against the darker backdrop

french country life in the snow

2012-02-07T22:37:00.001+01:00

With the snow comes the prettiness but also the reality of a country not quite adapted to cope with even a few inches of the white stuff. Country roads are not cleared or gritted, and few people have snow tyres on their cars so journeys are either postponed or taken slowly.

The days are busy because there is more to do and everything takes longer. I try to keep an eye on our elderly neighbours, pick up some shopping for them or just have a chat. Our horses look fed up, and their water freezes every day so I have to ferry jerry cans of warm water as well as the hay.

School buses are cancelled until the snow melts so I'll be spending a while in my car this week on school runs.

This morning everywhere looked so beautiful. At the risk of going into snow overkill, I share these shots I took as I drove through the valley.

The sun is bright, it will all melt soon, carpe diem!

my favourite château in winter and summer!

2012-02-06T21:32:00.001+01:00

I have already told you about the Château de Miserey, just 3 minutes from our home and famous for it's wonderful collection of roses and the kindness of its owners. Today I dropped by to say hello and ask if I could take some pictures of the grounds in the snow.

I wandered around the park alone, no other footprints visible except for those of the rabbit, deer and fox that call the château theirs.

Since I have often taken photos here, I inevitably have summer versions of today's shots, I though you'd find it fun to compare!

My favourite view in any season, as you come back from the rose gardens you can see the whole property including the church and outbuildings.

A privileged moment I thought you may like me to share.

snowy sunday

2012-02-05T22:55:00.000+01:00

Images of fresh snow, excited dogs, worried daffodils, snow arrived in the night and is promised to continue falling until Tuesday. As usual, Normandy is hopelessly under equipped to deal with even a few inches of snow, so my children are delighted at the prospect of a day off school, huddled down at home, keeping the fire going.

Friends over for lunch today, cakes in the oven already, guinea fowl on the menu, the first day of being snowed in is always fun!

Hope you are enjoying a good weekend, à demain

a blogging helpline

2012-02-04T01:01:00.001+01:00

In our blogging world it is easy to get caught up in paint colours and beautiful interiors but one of the amazing things about blogging is the privileged communication with readers. Besides the comments left at the end of a post, I am fortunate to receive emails from all over the world; people sharing their everyday life, their joys; their fears.

Here in Europe the news we receive via the mainstream media has a short concentration span. Something big happens on the other side of the world, we'll hear about it for the first couple of days but then it fades away.

A big thing that we're not hearing about any more is the effect of the earthquake in New Zealand. It first struck last September and we all saw the pictures, watched the videos on youtube, read the statistics then ..... then nothing! I assumed it was all over, cleared up, rebuilt, done and dusted.

May I share with you a couple of extracts from notes I have received from readers. They weren't asking for anything, they weren't whining or griping. They all just explained why blogging had become so important to them, moments of normality amidst their life that has become anything but normal.

Christchurch New Zealand has passed 10,000 earthquakes and aftershocks since 4.35am September 3rd September 2010, that makes just over 500 days:

"Life has been very frightening and pleasures of daily life have been curtailed showers now take 1 min in case another aftershock occurs – same with toilet time no one wishes to be on toilet or undressed and we all have our emergency routines - thank God for cellphones/bottled water/chemical toilets/strong torches/barbeques and the like."

"Most of us have lost treasures have traumatised children/pets and the list could go on."

"My house has sustained even more damage not much more can break now but we are still all alive "

"the place was going to be all set for an amazing day now the tree has smashed twice in the lat 24 hours so reluctant to put it back again the liquefaction surrounds the house so its gumboots in summertime - the house has split more glasses and good Christmas china smashed and the cupboards have emptied their contents over the kitchen floor yet again"

I don't think I need to say more. You are sensitive understanding people. Today I simply wanted to invite you to think about this situation as I have done. If you feel moved to help a little or a lot, this is the best place I have found. Thank you.

toile de jouy and a winner

2012-02-03T22:37:00.001+01:00

For the giveaway winner you are invited to read down to the end of the post!

When we bought our home all those years ago, every single bedroom was decorated in toile de jouy (pronounced twull de jooee). Few designs are as easily recognisable, as French or as timeless. There are surely hundreds of toile de jouy patterns, printed on fabric, on wallpaper. Their common theme: the repetition of a pattern - often bucolic -, printed in one colour against a contrasting background.

In France it is popular either as wallpaper or as fabric wall cover.

In this picture I love the gold patina on the drawers and frames conrasted with the chic black and white wall treatment.

One thing I appreciate about toile de jouy is that it can look feminine or masculine. I can see the bedroom below as a man's room.

Some people go for the all over look. Walls, chairs and curtains!

manuel canovas fabric

Today the only room I have left with toile de jouy walls is my sewing room, but I still love to see the pattern on cushions and chairs.

toile de jouy looks wonderful contrasting with stripes

royal doulton china

Finally, I am happy to announce the winner of the Diane James Home giveaway, it is Ketjeh - congratulations, if you get in touch with me I shall send your details across to Diane James.

le chandeleur - this week we are eating crêpes suzette

2012-02-02T22:36:00.002+01:00

If you would like to be very 'French' today, then make your family some crêpes for tea. Today is le chandeleur, the catholic holiday of candlemas, and today we make crêpes or pancakes like there were no tomorrow!

My children love to make crêpes for themselves and for their friends, they are so easy to rustle up from scratch, and delicious with sugar, jam or nutella, although my favourite is sugar and lemon juice.

If you want a more grown up version you could try the delicious traditional French dessert crepes suzette, cooked in orange juice and flambéd au cointreau.

Here is my favourite recipe, I find it makes enough for 6 people.

ingredients

4oz or just under 1 cup flour

pinch of salt

2 eggs

275ml/10fl oz milk

50g/2oz butter

1 medium orange, grated zest only

1 tbsp caster sugar

150ml/5fl oz orange juice (from 3-4 medium oranges)

1 medium orange, grated zest only

1 small lemon, grated rind and juice

1 tbsp caster sugar

3 tbsp Grand Marnier, Cointreau or brandy

50g/2oz unsalted butter

a little extra Grand Marnier, for the fun bit

Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl, make a hollow in the centre and break the eggs into it. Whisk the eggs well until all the flour is moistened. Gradually add the milk, whisking all the time, until the batter is smooth and there is no more flour left around the edge of the bowl. Now you can add the orange zest and sugar.

Melt the butter in the pan, and pour most of it into the batter mix. Using a piece of kitchen paper, smear the remainding butter over the pan, you'll find it best to do this before each pancake.

To start cooking the pancakes, you'll need the pan to be very hot. I always start with a mini pancake, one for the pan as my children say.

Now ladle a small amount of batter into the pan, cook the first crêpe for less than a minute on each side. You want them slightly tinged with golden brown, but not overcooked so they are too dry. If you want to pick up speed it's easy to cook the crêpes in two pans simultaneously. The crêpes should be very thin. You should be able to make between 12 - 16 crepes.

It's better to keep the crêpes warm, I keep a plate on top of a saucepan of hot water and slide the pancakes onto the plate as each one is finished. If you are making the crepes for a dinner, you can do this stage ahead of time, then just make the sauce at the last minute.

To make the sauce, mix the orange juice, lemon and orange zest, sugar and Grand Marnier. Melt butter in the pan, then pour in the orange sauce to warm through. Place the first crêpe into the butter and fold it in half then into quarters so it is a nice neat triangular shape. You need a large pan for this step because you aim to end up with all the crepes folded in the sauce.

This is the moment to flambé the crêpes . The easiest way is to pour some of the Grand Marnier or Cointreau into a metal ladle, and hold it for a short moment over a gas flame, when its really warm put a match to ignite it. Pour the contents of the ladle over the crêpes and take the pan to the table to share between individual plates.

Spectacular!! - if this one doesn't earn you a round of applause, nothing will!

PS Don't forget , last day for the Diane James Home giveaway!!

thanks to Delia for the recipe

crisis in the chicken coop

2012-02-01T17:25:00.003+01:00

There is trouble in the village and it all started when a fox stole Henriette's rooster.

Let me explain. Henriette is our neighbour, she would be the wife of the amazing dancing Henri. She has always kept chickens and when we have a cake to bake or a soufflé to put together hers is the gate to knock at. Her eggs are large, fresh, dated by hand and sell like hotcakes.

Her chickens were an even tempered bunch, laying happily until last Christmas Day when a fox snatched her rooster! Henriette was sad, Henri grabbed his gun and went to look for the fox and her pretty hens went into mourning and stopped laying.

By coincidence, at the other end of the village, the young farmer Sebastien purchased some beautiful young chickens as a present for his wife. I know, I know not everyone's idea of the perfect gift but here we have our country values to defend.

Sebastien's chickens turned out to be des poules extraordinaires and before long were laying so well that he was into egg overflow situation. Having heard that Henriette's chickens weren't doing their stuff he helpfully put up a sign outside the gate offering eggs for sale each Saturday morning from 9 to 12.

His eggs are large, fresh, dated by hand and are selling like hotcakes.

In the meantime Henriette has acquired a replacement rooster, her hens are happy and Henriette is back in business. You can see where this is going.

What started as a simple chicken coop crisis has become a diplomatic situation.

As it is impossible to knock at either Henriette's or Sebastien's gate without being seen, the village folk find themselves with divided loyalties. Do we remain faithful to Henriette in which case Sebastien's new found source of income will dry up as suddenly as it started, or do we continue as clients to Sebastien and risk the wrath of Henri?!

Who would have thought that the appetite of a winter fox could cause so much disruption? In the village I hear whispered conversations discussing the merits of the opposing eggs. The shop has decided to have no part in the egg war and has turned to a new outside supplier. Sebastien seems to have some powerful lobbyists, but Henriette has the vote of the older generation on her side. All part of French village life.

And me in all of this? I now buy a dozen eggs from both gates!

As if life weren't already complicated enough!

19th century French floor tiles

2012-01-31T22:08:00.002+01:00

In most of the old houses around here if you let your gaze drop to the ground, you'll find that you are standing on an old 19th century decorative tiled floor. These tiles are tough enough to resist to most conditions, and even when walls need re-plastering or the actual floor level has moved, the tiles can be retrieved and relaid straight.

Typically the decorative tiles were laid as a 'rug' to echo the shape of the room. A border around the edge. Today it is possible to find complete 'rugs' of tiles for sale in the most beautiful colours.

It is not unusual in the old houses like ours, to find a decorative pattern used in the entrance hall and the kitchen with wooden parquet, or brick red tomettes laid in the adjacent living and dining areas.

I love the subtle colours of the floors, they seem to bring warmth and whimsy to today's neutral tones. In the bathroom below 19th century tiles have been reworked as a the wall on a walk in shower. Gorgeous yellow with the grey woodwork

Of course some tile patterns are more intricate than others, some designed to impress others to comfort (those things never change!), but to me it's a bonus to find an old house that still has this decorative floor pattern intact.

PS If you haven't entered yet, don't forget the fantastic Diane James Home giveaway, 2 days to go!

light and space in an old French bastide

2012-01-30T23:57:00.000+01:00

If I were to move back down to the South of France with it's beautiful light and gentle living, I would definitely love a house with proportions like these. Tall ceilings, wide open windows, gently light colours. Everything feels calm and uncluttered, the living looks easy.

I love the long dresser in this picture, so great for displaying plates or even lining up dishes for a big family lunch!

The furniture is not overdone, mostly vintage or brocante pieces, the accent is on colour, patina and textures. The bareness of the walls in the sitting room provide a striking set for the two huge orchard ladders.

Fittingly it is the bedroom that is given the most comfortable treatment, with a big soft armchair, and of course the wonderfully simple baldaquin over the bed.

How simple is this table?! Two bench supports and plank table top rounded at the corners. What makes it spectacular is its size.

This is my favourite picture,; I love the grey of the lamp stand against the neutral stone wall. The way the side table height has been raised, and those amazing little vases attached to the lamp - those I want!

Another example of French understatement, less is more. Simple materials, neutral colours, comfort in textiles with looking for anything fancy. The overall effect feels soothing to me - what do you think?

all pictures with thanks to campagne et doecoration

snowdrop sunday

2012-01-30T00:21:00.001+01:00

A 'lively' day here today, so I'll just leave you with a picture

of our first snowdrops that started flowering this week.

Thank you for stopping by.

I wish you all a serene Sunday.

dreaming of the smaller french house for sale

2012-01-29T01:31:00.000+01:00

A couple of readers have kindly written to me explaining that while you enjoy seeing the properties I show for sale, many would prefer some smaller less expensive houses to dream over.

So today let's pretend that we have maximum 200,000 euros to spend on a property in Normandy. We prefer an old house with character, and we don't mind if it needs a little restoration, and total redecorating! Do you agree with these criteria? Good, then here is my selection for you to carry around in your mind this weekend .......

I am showing you one of my favourites first of all, comes complete with a stable, chicken house, pond, large garden, wine cellar and huge attic to renovate

These properties are mostly further west in Normandy than us, often in the traditional Normandy style, that is long and narrow, rooms leading from one into another, usually with several fireplaces.

The beams showing through the structure is also typical of the region, on this house I love the exterior staircase

From the so sweet to the more imposing!

Voila! I have to add that I am not an estate agent, and the agencies have not paid me to show these properties, it's just my pleasure for an in-between-season weekend. If however you want more details on any of the houses, just drop me a line and I'll give you the link.

Happy dreaming!

small is beautiful

2012-01-27T23:44:00.001+01:00

I'm having fun with some old earthenware pots that I found. They must have been hand made, they are tiny and uneven in shape and size, so much more charming than today's industrially produced flower pots.

At the approach to spring it's nice to bring a little bit of outdoors inside. I've been playing around with some early crocus, snowdrops and pansies. What I don't have to hand in the garden can be bought at little expense and shared between the pots.

If I want to take the exercise further then I put together little vignettes using props to hand, like these gorgeous old books I found at the same place as the pots.

Little things, that take a few minutes but make the house feel dressed for the weekend!

Wishing you a sunny weekend, full of flowers and fun!

a Diane James Home give away

2012-01-27T10:10:00.000+01:00

I am delighted to welcome the fabulous Diane James Home as a new sponsor to My French Country Home, and to tell you about her amazing giveaway.

This pretty Peony and Rose bouquet looks as if the flowers have just been cut in the garden but they are actually faux! You have a chance to win this beautiful bouquet, that normally sells in Diane's store for $350.

Diane James arrangements have become a favourite with interior designers, and are to be found in elegant homes around the world. When you visit her store you'll be amazed at the variety of bouquets in all your favourite flowers, and the huge choice of beautiful plants that will look good for years!

Diane James creates the most exquisite faux bouquets with all my favourite flowers as well as beautiful faux plants and orchids. Her natural flair for flower arranging was nurtured when she lived in Europe, where she trained with the experts. Today her twin daughters, Carolyn and Cynthia, have joined her in the family company, and together they form a charming and winning team. In the United States she is a favourite supplier to designer stores like Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus.

If you want to keep up with all their latest news, and see more stylish inspirations, you can check out the company's blog The Buzz

To enter the giveaway is easy. Simply check that you are a follower here, then head over to the Diane James site and browse her shelves. Come back here and tell me which of her products you prefer. If you would like additional entries to the draw, you simply talk about the giveaway on facebook , twitter or pinterest. A separate comment for each new entry please.

Extra good news is that Diane James is generously opening the give away to everyone, no matter where you live!

I will draw a winner in one week, on Thursday 2nd February at midnight Paris time. The lucky girl (or boy!) will be announced the next day, and hopefully will receive their bouquet in time for St Valentine's day.

Bonne chance à tout le monde!

Merci! for the past two years

2012-01-25T23:56:00.000+01:00

This Monday it was two years ago that I published my very first blog post.

If you write a blog you'll remember that emotion, finger hovering above the publish button, then finally you hit it and ... then you wonder what the fuss was all about because nobody knows your blog exists anyway so it really didn't matter if it was a well written post or not!

I digress...

Two years on Monday, and by a happy coincidence, you, my wonderful readers, gave me the best anniversary gift, because Monday I received an all time record number of visits for my little blog.

So today I have to say

THANK YOU MERCI BEAUCOUP THANK YOU MERCI BEAUCOUP THANK YOU MERCI BEAUCOUP THANK YOU MERCI BEAUCOUP

thank you for reading me, for showing interest in what I have to say, for encouraging me to continue writing and showing you pictures from my corner of Normandy. Writing a blog is a life changing experience that connects you with people all over the world in the most unexpected manner. Which is where I also have to thank my husband and children for their encouragement and patient acceptance of my intrusive camera!

You have made me laugh, you have even made me cry! I love reading your mails that share such big moments in your lives; I love reading your comments even if I don't have time to reply to all; I love the unexpected 'secondary effects' of a blog: the new friendships; the new awareness of a worldwide community.

And to every single person who stopped by on my 2nd anniversary, a very special thank you for making the day so amazing. For as long as people are kind enough to come by to see me, I shall be inspired to share more beautiful French houses, favourite French recipes, to chat about my brocante finds and to indulge in some girly and family talk too.

Talking of which ....

don't forget to check out MFCH tomorrow, I have a fantastic giveaway for you!

Bonne journée mes amis!

all pictures taken in the valley, the first at Bords de Scene

French women preparing for spring

2012-01-24T23:38:00.001+01:00

Even though we haven't reached the end of January, there is a deliciously spring like feel to the air. The birds have picked up on it and have dusted off their spring songs. Snowdrops are out in the garden and like every other woman in France I am beginning to think about Spring... and lighter weight clothes... and putting away those heavy jumpers that have so conveniently hidden the fact that in the winter we indulge in a little over eating.

UGH! Some things just have to be said!

So here we go, my insider view on how French women are preparing for the fast approaching spring.

First of all they are moving! Running, cycling, swimming, dancing, riding, walking or going to the gym - it's not what they do but how often. The experts say that 20 minutes a day of movement and exercise is enough to make a real difference. Walking the dog, cycling to the store, taking the stairs instead of a lift, in my case walking up the hill to feed the horses ...it all counts , especially for us bloggers who have too many temptations to stay sitting down!

Next they are drinking water , aqua, de l’eau! Lots of it, for a couple of weeks they forget about wine, champagne etc and drink a couple more glasses of water a day than they would normally. The winter holidays always brings too many opportunities to raise a glass of champagne or indulge in heavy meals, now is the time to repent!

Then of course their food, SIGH .... French women and their food, it is fascinating to see them surrounded by so many great things to eat and still stay slim. It's no secret , they hold back! They are reasonable, a little of everything, moderation, and avoid the carbs and the desserts! Three well balanced meals a day, no snacking, plenty of vegetables and light protein. I see it everyday, French women take their time over meals, they don't skip meals, but that doesn't mean they eat a lot.

One secret I can reveal to you is 'bouillon', light stock, preferably home made not from a cube. To be drunk with a few vegetables and even a little pasta. Delicious, satisfying, wholesome. Effective!

So what do you think? I know this stuff, you know this stuff, we read it every time we open a magazine, but for the French it is simply non-negotiable.

You want to be slim, you work at it. So here is my challenge to you, and to me: let February, March and April be the months that make the difference. Let us feel good ... à la francaise.

Feel inspired

feel French

feel the difference!

PS. sorry about the 'slogans' at the end, I've been watching Mad Men! :)

understated French elegance

2012-01-24T07:52:00.000+01:00

I love the quiet understated style of the Belgian interiors. This house is in France, but near the Belgian border and I have been looking closely at the details.

The rooms are very high, which I don't normally like, but here it seems to work thanks to the clever positioning of oversize mirrors and large, neutral coloured furniture.

In the bathroom another huge mirror has been stood against the wall, giving an exceptional feel to a small room.

The kitchen dining area is my favourite. I love their choice of flooring; the contrast between the rustic table and the ornate chairs; the glass fronted free standing cabinets and of course the stove! Excuse me... the stove?!! What a monster! but just think how easy it would be to cook lunch for 20 with a baby like that in the kitchen!

Plus in the kitchen, I love the collection of cake stands arranged under the island. They'd make for a lot of dusting but they look fantastic.

What does this style say to you?

all photos thanks to art and decoration

brocante hunting in Normandy

2012-01-22T23:23:00.002+01:00

Twice a year, in a town not far from us, there is a massive brocante and antique fair. Dealers come from all over France to show their goods, and it provides a unique opportunity to find so many specialists under one roof.

There are dealers selling silver ware, paintings, old dolls, jewellery, linen and a huge variety of furniture.

I spent some time there this weekend, and made a few purchases for our home. In September I'll be returning to the autumn version of the fair, and if you wish, you can come too.

The American company Tea Garden Travel, has invited me to host a group of their clients for a short stay in Normandy, antique buying and visiting gardens. Accommodation will be in a local château, and the programme will include brocante, gardens, shopping, meals out and an evening at my home. Michele Abrate who runs the company, will be organising the trip. She has run tours and specialised holidays for many years, so I know that my guests will be in excellent hands. It's going to be fun!

So whether your taste be more white lace and heavy linen, or old furniture with patina, or if you dream of taking home an old impressionist painting, this could be the trip for you!

For more details contact Michele at Tea Garden and she will explain how the trip is to be planned.

PS. Just had to share these last four pictures, from a dealer I discovered, they are called Mon Ile Arzon - if you're in Brittany this summer, this is definitely an address to be looked into!

bartabas - a king at versailles palace

2012-01-21T20:18:00.000+01:00

If you plan to visit France this year and expect to stop by at Versailles while you are here, I would highly recommend you crossing the street from the palace and stepping into the .... stables. They are inhabited by a horseman who is a magician, a true artist.

Bartabas stands alone, proud, aloof, enigmatic, he seems to communicate more easily with horses than with men, but the shows he put together have enchanted audiences for years as they marvel at the horsemanship and the art.

He also produces shows in the north of Paris, under the name Zingaro, at his own 'circus' ground, but for nearly 10 years he has settled into the stables at Versailles, and the result is magical.

Many proficient riders would like to be part of his team, but the selection process is ruthless, and the working conditions are unusual. When the new riding teams are formed they find themselves riding for hours, but also taking lessons in fencing (to improve their reactivity); drawing (to help them understand the muscles of their horses) and singing (to improve their self confidence)!

Great attention is paid to aesthetics in Bartabas' productions. The textiles and the colours of the costumes are stunning, and of course the horses themselves breathtaking. They perform to music, with or without riders, against a backdrop^of the high ceilings and creamy coloured stones of the old palace buildings.

You can find details of the shows here, bear in mind that if you can't get into an evening performance, the morning rehearsal sessions are wonderful too.

women in paris with their dogs and high heels

2012-01-20T21:58:00.000+01:00

Today I bring you a little bit of whimsy to set you off for the weekend in the right frame of mind!

These delicious illustrations are by the talented French designer Izak Zenou, who has created his signature style, specialising in fashion illustration.

I love the very Parisian feel to his drawings. His women are tall, long legged and happy. They float around in today's busy world looking happy and carefree, content to be beautiful. And who has never wanted to do that?!

His pictures make me think of my girls, striding out confidently, having fun with their friends...., preferably in high heels and with a small dog in tow! :)

But IZAK doesn't only illustrate, he has also designed a line of bags, scarves and accessories for names such as Celine, Guerlain and La Samaritaine. Today his products and artwork are available at the New York store Henri Bendel.

And the really cool thing is that you can get customised stationery using his artwork! Party invitations, greeting cards, Izak's drawings carrying your message - wonderful!

Wishing you all a whimsical weekend, be it in Paris, New York, Budapest or

Sydney; let us walk as tall as the girls drawn by Izak.

all photos thanks to the Izak Zenou website

blogging - a procrastinator's dream

2012-01-19T22:32:00.001+01:00

Yesterday afternoon had been set aside in my mind to make some cushions. It was cold outside, the dog was asleep, my emails were up to date, the children at school until 6, even the house was clean and tidy. No excuses, I could settle down in my sewing room and have time to make the pillows I have promised my daughter for her bedroom

You can tell where this is going can't you ............. Before I start sewing with vintage fabrics I always spend time checking for marks or flaws, experimenting with complimentary patterns and matching the cuts of fabric to produce the best result.

Well yesterday, the fooling-around-with-fabric took over from the real-task-at-hand and an hour later I was having such fun that I had even got out the camera. So once I had the camera going, I just had to tidy all the shelves and sort the threads, and arrange the pins on the pincushion ..... and lo and behold I ran out of time to actually make anything at all.

But excuse me! ... I do have a blog to write after all.

Yes, that is the advantage of being a blogger, that even procrastination

can be justified if it results in a couple of pictures

I hope your day is going well, and that you - unlike myself - will
finish the day with a tidy list of chores all ticked off, done and dusted.

PS to my daughter: don't worry honey, you'll get your cushions!

dreaming of a house in Normandy?

2012-01-18T22:34:00.000+01:00

Have you ever dreamt of changing lifestyle and heading out to the deepest French countryside to do up an old house and run your own B&B ? I may have the place for you......

This beautiful house is 250 years old , it was originally a Fuller's mill. Its 2.5 acre garden backs onto a nature reserve, and has its own spring supplying fresh water to the whole property;

The house is to be found down a tiny lane in a beautiful little valley. Among the numerous outbuildings, is this stunning old barn that could be converted into further living space.

The main house is not enormous but has an open plan living area with a huge fireplace, a cellar and five bedrooms. There is a tiny maison d'amis with a bedroom and a bathroom plus another barn with 5 more bedrooms and a large work studio upstairs. The property has been run as a seminar centre for several years. The structure and layout are fantastic but there is still scope for improvement and embellishment.

These pictures show the back of the main house, overlooking the grassy slope leading down to the stream. It would be great to add a raised wrap around porch to this side of the building and enjoy the views and sunlight.

This is the side of the house that people arrive to. The garden is well planted and very attractive. The terrace is a great place to eat alfresco.

The extensive grounds are as quiet as they are beautiful. The soil is rich, the garden grows well.

The large barn close to the house was built with five bedrooms on the ground floor and two huge studios above. The property can sleep over 20 people so this space is useful when welcoming groups. With its wooden beams and wood clad walls it is warm and welcoming. Again the potential is enormous.

Back in the main house, the living area with its large wood burning stove feels relaxed and inviting. The windows on the left look out towards the stream.

This long corridor in the main house upstairs serving the bedrooms and bathrooms gives a feel for the overall size of the property. I love the use of the oriental rugs, and the way that antique furniture and paintings can be displayed so effectively.

The bedrooms upstairs are charming, they feel warm and cosy

The sweet little maison d'amis lies directly opposite the entrance to the main house.

vaulted ceilings in the cellar

Today the kitchen is compact and functional, with a walk in larder and storage area behind.

The property is a couple of hours drive from Paris, in the heart of the cheese country. Camembert, Livarot, and Le Pont l'Eveque are just a couple of the famous cheeses made locally. The university town of Caen and the pretty seaside town of Deauville are an hour away, the landing beaches too.

I know this property well. It is up for sale furnished and equipped at around 450,000 euros, I believe there is some room for negotiation. If you would like any other details don't hesitate to get in touch, I'll happily answer your questions or put you in touch directly with the owner.

early this morning in our valley

2012-01-17T21:55:00.000+01:00

Up and about early this morning, another thick frost on the ground, I took my camera with me. All along our valley there are small stone built villages, each with a church. Many villages have a small château somewhere central and they all have an old 'lavoir' or communal washing stand on the river, where the women used to take their laundry.

Of course we have the new builds as well, and they are not always a happy match to the beautiful old stone work, but this morning I could only see the beautiful.

I just love all these tones of winter grey, summer will seem brash after this subtle season. The slight mist in the air, the lack of leaves on the trees, and this additional frost, makes the countryside look as if viewed in soft focus.

Hope your week is going well

Thank you for stopping by!

this week we are eating - poires au vin

2012-01-16T22:01:00.001+01:00

Our local orchards pick their apples and pears in September and store the fruit through the winter, selling the different varieties in a certain order. Some keep better than others, so we have to wait longer for them to be available. We have just got to the Comice pears, my favourite! Big, juicy with a wonderful flavour.

Here is a ridiculously easy recipe for pears cooked in wine, a perfect winter dessert, that can be prepared ahead, looks pretty and feels light!

To make my poires au vin, I normally cook 6 pears. With them I'll need about half a bottle of white wine, about half a cup of sugar, the juice of a lemon and a couple of spoons of home made orange marmalade.

First peel the pears and carefully cut out the cores from the base. I leave the stalks but find that it's a good idea to cut the base flat so the pears will stand nicely in a serving dish.

As each pear is peeled stand it in a saucepan and squeeze a little lemon juice over, to prevent discolouring. Once all the fruit is peeled and in the pan, pour in the white wine, this should come almost half way up the height of the pears. I used a dry white wine, some may prefer a sweeter taste.

Pour in the sugar, again the quantity is a question of taste, and more can be added later. I also add a couple of spoons of marmalade, the orange flavour adds a little zing and the chunks of orange zest look pretty against the pale fruit.

Start warming the pan and let the pears come to the boil then simmer gently for about 20 minutes. You want the fruit to be perfectly tender, but not to fall apart. When the fruit is cooked through, remove from the pan onto a dish and turn the heat up to reduce the wine sauce. You want to obtain a syrupy consistency, that will glaze the pears, but still liquid enough to give some sauce.

I serve the pears cold, but make a warm chocolate sauce to drizzle over by melting some good quality dark chocolate with a little water, sugar and rum. Yum! Hope you enjoy!

but baby it's cold outside ...

2012-01-15T22:52:00.000+01:00

A stunning start to the day today, with bright sunshine and a heavy frost. I left the breakfast table, grabbed my camera and snapped a couple of shots of the box bushes along the driveway.

What a wonderful plant this is, slow growing maybe but so dense and regular in it's shape and foliage. I love the way the frost creates a little white halo around each leaf.

On the lawn the frost was heavy too and the daffodils are beginning to wonder if it was such a smart idea to push their way through the grass so soon! Spring must be on it's way!!

french barn conversion

2012-01-15T00:46:00.002+01:00

All over Normandy there are properties with old stone barns attached. We have one, our neighbours have two, across the road there is at least one more. Our barn above, is used to store hay, put away the bikes, hold parties for teenagers ... it's a pretty busy place, but sometimes barns are converted into living space, and here is a great example.

The beauty of this conversion to my mind is that they haven't gone rustic, the contrast between the modern lines, the comfortable furniture and beautiful design, simply makes it a great place to live without harping on about being a former barn.

These pictures are in my file now, just in case, one day .....

wishing you a great weekend full of projects and plans

thanks to art et decoration for the pictures

authentic french living

2012-01-14T09:52:00.000+01:00

We are lucky here to have many interesting and charming guests come to stay. They seem to enjoy the valley and the French way of life, and often comment on our 'quality of life' or the authentic feel of french living.

Of course it is very difficult to analyse objectively a lifestyle that just comes naturally, but these conversations make me think about elements of our country life here, that give that authentic french touch to our everyday routine. And I have to say that it seems to comes down to attitude and atmosphere rather than furniture and paint colour.

Quiet - The first thing people comment on is the quiet - well yes, we live in a small village, on a very quiet road, in fact as our neighbour has stables, we have more racehorses go past our house than cars!

Time - how can people be busy and active and yet give the impression of taking their time? For me this is just a question of enjoying the moment. There are days when I have to run around in the car, but that doesn't stop me slowing down to enjoy the beautiful countryside, or even screeching to a halt to take a picture.

When I have guests in the cottage, there is plenty of other stuff happening too, but taking time to chat with our guests is up at the top of my list of priorities.

Pleasure - Anyone can find pleasure in their everyday life, finding pleasure is a state of mind, it's not material. For a start we can banish cynicism and open ourselves up to enjoy what we have to hand

Living well - This is not about money, this is about simple living. For example eating the right food and taking the time to appreciate. Eating, seated as a family, talking, sharing. When our children have friends to stay over here at the weekend, the moment they all like the best is breakfast on Sunday morning, at a big table, laid nicely, the fire lit, fresh bread and home made jam. None of this is a question of finance, it is just creating the right atmosphere.

If we have friends to lunch or to dinner, everyone expects to chat over a long aperitif and to enjoy a meal that will last for several hours because there is lively conversation, pauses between dishes and everybody is there to take their time.

If I had to choose one thing that epitomises French living, it would be shopping at the fresh food market. The contrast between a real farmers market and the supermarket is blatant. At a supermarket, I tear up and down alleys with piped music in the background, fill up the trolley with the same stuff each time and get out as fast as I can.

At the farmers market, I forget the list, and instead walk around to see what is on offer. I bump into people I know, chat, the vendors laugh and joke, the goods are laid out beautifully, it is a sensual experience. I walk away with a basket full of healthy food and a smile on my face.

So tell me, which bit of your day will you enjoy the most today?

Hope you're heading for a good weekend, thank you for stopping by.

colours of gardens in the south of france

2012-01-12T21:17:00.000+01:00

A very busy day today, so I am simply leaving you with a couple of beautiful gardens to contemplate. They are all in the South of France, where there is something special in the colours of the vegetation and the light. Here they avoid buys flowerbeds, greedy for water and maintenance and tend to emphasise more the colour of the stone and trees against layers of green . I find the result restful and soothing. And that my friends is exactly what I need today!

Tomorrow I'll have time to chat!

all photos with thanks to sothebys

finding brocante at french auctions

2012-01-12T09:19:00.002+01:00

Have you ever shopped at auctions? There is a sort of thrill to it, as if danger were lurking in the background. Raise your hand at the wrong moment and you find yourself landing a stuffed boa or the complete works of Marx.

Of course buying at an auction is partly good luck. If there's no one else in the room interested in what you like you get a bargain, but just one other buyer with the same taste as you and you may as well pack up and go home.

At the auction house where I spent yesterday afternoon, there is seating space for about 100 people and the others stand around the back of the room. In any case by the end of the sale everyone is standing because the chairs are up for bids too!

So yesterday I found some good stuff, enough to show you a little winter loot shoot. The light isn't good today, so my 'group' shot of the loot shoot isn't brilliant. I prefer to show you more individual pictures.

My favourite pieces are the paintings, the sheets (no surprise there!) the old cigarette cases that would be pretty to keep visiting cards, make up or medication in a bag or on a table.

I'd love to hear if you have a great auction story to tell!
Thank you for reading me.

how to recognise a true parisian man?

2012-01-10T23:17:00.001+01:00

Vincent Cassel - actor

The true Parisian is temperamental! There, I said it, but I think there is no way around it. He can be the most charming and irresistible person you have ever met and he can be arrogant and plain difficult. But maybe therein lies his charm ...

He wants to please and be pleased. He adores the women he meets, but loves it when they adore him too.

Flirting and charming is second nature to him, his compliments are as flattering as they are quickly forgotten.

These pictures are of Bernard Henri Levy, France's best known philospher,

and for me the archetype of the elegant parisien. Seen here with his actress wife.

He dresses well, likes to look dashing, loves good shoes. He can carry off that wonderful air of elegance and ease, smart without looking uncomfortable. He wears a warm scarf tied around his neck in winter, and sunglasses in the summer. He'll wear polo t-shirts but never short sleeved shirts.

He is a gentleman, he holds doors open, and waits for the ladies to be seated before taking his own place. He is happy to joke, but happier still to argue ... about anything; the state of the world; the best way to cook his favourite dish, the merits of the latest film - he is a great conversationalist. Happy to spend time with friends, delighted to enjoy a romantic dinner with the woman in his life.

Vincent Cassel and his wife Belucci

He loves his children, he doesn't feel ridiculous buying flowers, he wears perfume, he enjoys the opera and good restaurants, he knows about wine. He can talk about books, politics, women, food and sport. He is an accomplisher.

If you want to please a Parisian, be sure to have something interesting to say, and to have made an effort with your appearance. Then just enjoy!

Voila! A light-hearted look at le parisien, probably too stereotyped,

but hey ... this is just a blog!