Category Archives: art

storm king with kids

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My birthday (October 1st), happens during my favorite season – autumn. When presented with a road trip opportunity this year, the destination was an easy choice for me. I chose the Hudson Valley, as I’ve been dreaming of a fall visit for many years. For some reason I’ve never made it there, despite seeing (and swooning over) New England in peak season. My desire to visit the region strengthened after seeing so many friends on Instagram share gorgeous images from the Storm King Art Center. Founded in 1960, it’s the home of incredible sculptures from some of the most prominent 20th century artists. While the foliage wasn’t quite what we had hoped for (this unseasonably warm weather is infuriating), the art didn’t disappoint. Henry and Marie were very engaged throughout our entire visit, and retained quite a bit of information. I’m sharing some tips for visiting with young children…click through for that and more from our visit!

 

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bon weekend

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Can you guess what I’m excited for this weekend based on this incredible illustration by Eleanor Grosch? If you guessed the Tour de France then OUI you are correct – it begins tomorrow!! If you’ve been following my blog since it’s inception, you are well aware of my TDF obsession (exhibit A, exhibit B, exhibit C). I am not a cyclist – I’m just a devout Francophile who long ago decided to watch for the scenery. The rest is history, and I’ve been hooked to the sport (and the soothing sound of Phil Ligett’s voice) since 2006. Of course a lot has changed since then (ahem) but I still can’t stop watching. If you’re just not that into it…here are some links that have inspired me recently, for your holiday weekend reading!

BON WEEKEND

fourth of july recipes

parent like a minimalist

bounce back from burnout

the best of pardon my french

how to stay sane while sick or injured

musée rodin paris

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The Musée Rodin in Paris is situated in the seventh arrondissement in a stunning mansion, surrounded by three acres of gardens. I made it a point to see it during my last trip, and was joined by my family who drove in from the Loire Valley. It had been pouring rain prior to our visit, and as soon as we arrived the clouds parted and the blue skies and sun returned. I’ve said it before but will say it again – the weather in Paris can be so temperamental, especially in the spring. However, it was such a gift that day – the gardens were gleaming and the combination of these huge lilies and the dewdrops took my breath away. Even if you’re not a huge fan of Rodin’s work, the mansion (known as the Hôtel Biron, where Rodin once resided), gardens, and unique perspective of the nearby Les Invalides will make it worth your while.

 

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we the postcard

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Today happens to be (not my) Presidents’ Day, and I can’t think of a better time to share this project by my friends at Curious + Company. Full disclosure: this is not a sponsored post, but I am a bit biased as those ladies have designed my website and are also personal friends. They recently launched their latest project, aptly named We the Postcard. Celebrating some of their favorite quotes about America, human rights, and civic responsibility, these cards make it easy for us to stay in touch with our elected officials, as well as patriotic friends and family. Most importantly (in my opinion), is that 50% of the proceeds are donated to the ACLU, Natural Resources Defense Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Head over to their site to order (don’t miss the Presidents’ Day sale) and show your postcard pride!

desktop fleurish | joyeuses fêtes

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Mes amis…it’s December, which means I can now officially say “happy holidays” or joyeuses fêtes! This wallpaper marks a year of desktop fleurish designs, and this one just might be my favorite. It’s been such a treat to collaborate with Lindsey Buck of The Hive Studio – I hope you’ve enjoyed all of her designs. In case you don’t know, she has a lovely Etsy shop filled with beautiful art prints, cards, gift wrap and more, and is accepting custom orders for a few more days. Hashtag shop small, forever and always. Welcome the season by refreshing your desktop – download the (free) designs below!

simple desktop | calendar desktop

please note that these designs are for personal use only + not available for commercial usage.