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!
I had another post planned, but after the attacks in Paris, this is the only thing that feels right to me. My French family (my niece especially who lives + goes to school in Paris) and many of my friends are on my mind. I’m heartbroken in the wake of these violent acts of terrorism – for France, and for us all. Feeling such love + solidarité.
As the title suggests, I recently had an epiphany. And ok fine, this title might also refer to the French holiday which falls on the first Sunday of the New Year (I’ll do anything to tie in my Francophilia). I came across this quote on Pinterest the other day, and even though it’s a very simple concept, something just clicked. I’ve been focusing so intensely on results for so many years, that my efforts towards long term change have been almost entirely in vain. This relates to many aspects of life of course – I’m sure we can all relate to it. I’m determined to make 2015 a triumphant one. Small steps towards big change…it seems that’s how all growth occurs. How do you relate to this quote, and what are you focused on this year?
Hello 2015! It’s the first weekend of the new year, and I’ve got a big smile on my face (much like the one above). I’m bursting with excitement + ideas for the new year! I don’t write resolutions, but I certainly keep a list of goals. One that has remained at the top of that list for many years is to better my French, and eventually, achieve fluency (which I wrote about here). I’ve been struggling to find the time to further my language skills, but I’m not going to let life get in the way any longer. I recently discovered Carrie Anne James of French is Beautiful (aka @theparisdarling), and I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be under her tutelage beginning next week! We’ll be collaborating on a new series here on the blog, which I’ll be debuting soon! This photo, taken of me in Paris by the talented Ashley Ludaescher, is the best way to describe how I feel about this new venture–GIDDY. Hopefully you’re feeling as excited as I am about something you have planned for 2015. Just in case you need some inspiration, here are some links for your weekend reading…
As we prepare to celebrate our annual réveillon dinner and say goodbye to 2014, I find myself in a reflective mood, as many do on this day. The word “réveillon” means awakening, and I’ve always loved the concept, especially on New Year’s Eve. To open your eyes and see clearly–both the cracks and the light shining brightly through. This year has been full of beauty, personal + professional growth, happiness + hardship. It’s not unlike your story, I’m sure – our lives all seem to ebb and flow in similar patterns. Periods of (sometimes troubling) recession, followed by (usually thrilling) surges forward. Both phases having their own trials and triumphs. Emerging from those tempestuous waves, I’ve learned a very significant lesson this year–that there is no such thing as balance. It’s an act – always an act of, balancing. My intention for 2015 is to improve my balancing act, making more time for myself amongst the chaos of work and family obligations. To return to my roots, nurture my soul, and enrich my life. I can’t wait to share the journey with you.
happy new year + bonne année!
It’s been a while since I’ve done an instagram life post, but it’s so fascinating to look back and see my most liked media. There are so many happy moments here, and it’s a great reminder of what an incredible year 2014 has been. WOW.
sibling sweetness…francophile porn…trois…peony season
cotton candy sky…our beautiful routine…mommy bliss…obligatory
my mecca…our home in in the fall…apple picking…the taste of autumn
surprise 35th birthday…our witch + wizard…october…best friends