Mallorca, Spain: An Ode to Summer & the Sea

Like our Parisian neighbors, my family headed to the sea in August... and in those moments under the Mallorcan sun, we knew only to follow the trails of sand and succumb to the clear blue water. 

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August in Paris

If you were to run out on a weekday afternoon during August in Paris, why, you'd wonder if you missed the announcement to abandon the city. It is that quiet (outside of the main tourist attractions anyway). So empty of cars and pedestrian traffic I can almost cross the street without looking! Many Parisians are away for the month on their annual summer break, boulangeries and neighborhood boutiques are temporarily closed, and even pharmacies and dry cleaners post signs announcing limited hours...

So essentially much of the noise of the city dies down, along the streets of one's quartier it's quiet, and the hum of summer floats through Paris in a wondrous rapture.

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In summer, the song sings itself ― William Carlos Williams

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a Simpler Life

Spending time in the French countryside always makes me crave a more simple way of life... does a certain locale make you feel that way too?

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Champagne | A Sparkling Visit

As part of my brother's visit to Paris, we drove two hours northeast of the city to spend a few days discovering the region of Champagne. Throughout its history, champagne has been consumed at coronations and celebrations, and his being here was as special as any big event, so it was a fine excuse to go and raise a celebratory glass or two...

The Champagne region is dotted with well known champagne houses as well as smaller but equally reputable producers. We toured several, marveled at their 4th century chalk pits and bas-relief carvings and passed rows upon rows of carefully stored bottles of dust-covered champagne, romantic and regal in their pre-label suits.

For me, the most memorable part of our trip was our stay next to the vineyards of a multi-generation family-run champagne house that doubles as a bed and breakfast. Their champagne rivals the big houses, and on our last evening we thought it fitting to top off the trip with a champagne picnic on their terrace, watching the sun set over the vines, toasting and talking of returning together again one day...

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Visiting Summer in Paris...

The official start of summer break for the boys is in a few days, and they're doubly excited this year because they get to mark it with the arrival of their beloved uncle and aunt from the States! It is also the first of hopefully many family visits from across the big blue ocean.

We plan to share with them a more intimate Paris, the more familial city that is for now our new home. The one that includes regular runs to the boulanger and fromager, leisurely walks along the Seine, stops at our favorite neighborhood cafés, and maybe even a picnic or two.

We'll also be heading out to the Loire Valley and the Champagne region as well. If you'd like to come along, I'll be posting on Instagram @catherine_goron :) a bientot!

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