I'm Susan — devout Francophile, mother of twins, writer, creative director, and aspiring author. I've been sharing my life here since 2010...thanks for reading!
watching: homeland (obsessed but who isn’t)?!
listening to: christmas music-bing is in heavy rotation
planning: to get back to the gym next week, eek!
thinking about: holiday visits from friends + family
reading: my favorite blogs when I have a free moment
making me happy: henry + marie, who delight me in new ways every day
thank you to Danielle for the post inspiration!
Saturday was hectic. We bundled everyone up and ventured out to our local tree farm, same as last year (plus two)! We knew it would be a challenge to juggle two babies and billy while searching for and cutting down a tree, but we were delusional up for it. Here’s how it went down- billy wanted to explore and subsequently fell into a (small) hole, henry started freaking out, marie decided to make a big mess in her diaper, and we began debating whether to call the whole thing off and forget a tree this year. Needless to say these photos were taken before the chaos ensued. Just more evidence that the lives of bloggers are not always as effortlessly beautiful as photos may portray! However-we did bring home a tree, and it is a reminder of our chaotic new life…full of love, laughter, and yes, a LOT of diapers.
During our last trip to Paris, we visited a few baby boutiques, knowing we would be growing our family soon therafter (although not yet expecting). Had I known twins were in the cards for us, I would have bought two of everything (maybe not at Bonpoint, but anyhoo). While there were many stores we did not have time for, we brought home a few items that we cherish and our babies now love. Here are a few of my favorite baby/kids shops in Paris, and a few links to explore if you’re into it…bon weekend!
au nain bleu… upscale children’s toys since 1836
bonpoint… stunning (and expensive) clothing, kid friendly cafe
bonton… a concept store with high quality clothing & toys
jacadi… reasonably priced linens, clothing, and toys
petit bateau… great french basics
This was the first shot I ever took using manual mode. Thanks to my friend Kayla, I now have the courage to use it! We purchased our Nikon right before I began this blog, and it opened up a whole new world for me. Being a true novice, I felt confined to the automatic dial, with the occasional diversion or attempt at "real" photography. I think I've done fairly well, not knowing anything…but who am I to judge? Lately though, my lens has a new life and I find myself hungry for opportunities to advance my skills. Tell me…what type of camera do you have? Do you have any tips or tricks you would like to share?
What would a blog be without a gift guide, right? I’m a big supporter of small business, being a business owner myself…so this one is focused on shopping small. These are some of my favorite products, shops, and people. I am so thankful to know many of these amazing artists and creatives. My favorite part of this season is giving. Giving to those I love, giving to those in need. May the holiday spirit inspire you!
image via besotted brand
for the francophile…photography from the paris print shop
for the romantic…a custom arrangement by sullivan owen
for the hostess…homewares from girls can tell
for the nostalgic…custom ornament by palomas nest
for the trendy…designer temp tattoos by tattly
for the bibliophile…literary illustrations by obvious state
for the decorator…eco-friendly pillows by melongings
for the foodie…sweet treats from whimsy & spice
for the writer…bespoke creations from besotted brand
for the artist…modern crossstich by chez sucre chez
for the fashion forward…hand crafted bowties from forage bowties
for the mom to be…a nesting gift certificate!! (shameless self-promotion)
for the kids…handmade friends by walnut animal society
for anyone & everyone…give back when you buy a bar of hand in hand soap!