My French Corner

Au revoir

2011-09-19T19:03:00.002-04:00

Over the past two weeks more than a few readers have emailed me, asking if things are okay, asking about the blog, and when am I going to post again.

The truth is, once school started up at the end of August, I've had less time to blog. This school year, a combination of factors has me focused more on my classroom; with 70 students (up from 48 last year), there's more preparation and planning, more responsibility, and a lot more papers and notebooks to read.

To that end, I think it's time that My French Corner bids adieu. It seems silly to keep a blog going if one rarely posts, n'est-ce pas?

Blogging has been a wonderful experience for me. The opportunity to write, to share about topics that interest me, and to connect with so many of you has been an unexpected pleasure. I want to say thank you for checking in and reading and commenting over the years.

I'll keep the blog up, at least for a while. And who knows, maybe one of these days I'll show up unexpectedly on My French Corner.

Mille mercis!

Week-end Simple: Plan ahead

2011-08-26T08:15:00.007-04:00

It's been an interesting week here in the Washington, DC area. A rare earthquake on Tuesday and the threat of a hurricane due to hit Saturday afternoon has residents thinking about emergency preparedness. In an area where heavy snowfall constitutes a natural disaster, we are unaccustomed to natural occurrences that menace other parts of the country.

Planning ahead is good advice, no matter what the situation. In all areas of life--financial, professional, personal--planning provides some control, and great peace of mind.

In my day-to-day work as a teacher, planning a week's worth of lessons ensures that my students receive instruction even if circumstances prevent me from being in the classroom. And silly as it seems, planning what I'm going to wear for the week makes early mornings stress free. Planning ahead helps to make life run smoothly.

I am prepared for a couple days of heavy rain and an extended power outage. But the situation started me thinking about what it means to plan for the unexpected. So, this weekend when I am stuck inside, I will piece together a plan in anticipation of the next unlikely event.

Those of you who live in other parts of the country--other parts of the world--do you prepare for the unexpected?

Why I will never be able to speak French

2011-08-24T10:24:00.003-04:00

When is a pièce not a piece? When it is a morceau. And so went the discussion at the dinner table when I asked "How do you say 'a piece of chocolate'?"

It is these inconsistencies that make it so difficult for me to speak French. Reading comes easy; a few familiar words and context clues aid in making a passable translation. And though listening to French is more challenging than reading, I can usually get the gist of a conversation if I pay very close attention.

But speaking French eludes me. I don't mean exchanging a few lines with the cashier at Carrefour or placing an order at a cafe; I mean real conversation with tenses and articles and vocabulary that goes beyond phrasebook French.

I'm sure much of it comes from a fear of making a mistake--calling something a pièce when it's really a morceau. A fear of attempting to speak the language and failing, as when I ~~asked~~ tried to ask the bus driver in Annecy a question and he looked at me like I had two heads. Equally frustrating for him and me, n'est-ce pas?

So what about you? If you speak French, how did you learn?

Week-end Simple: Listen to the cicadas

2011-08-19T08:38:00.005-04:00

Where I live, summer has always been bookended by two insects, the firefly and the cicada.

For me, summer begins on a dusky night in mid-June when I spy my first firefly. "Firefly!" I say aloud, like a child, resisting the temptation to find a jar, poke holes in the lid, and capture enough fireflies to make a lantern.

Likewise, I know the summer is coming to an end when the song of the cicadas punctuates the hot, thick August air. I am fascinated by cicadas, by how they can be so noisy yet invisible, and how their songs can be distinguished, if one listen's closely.

The cicadas whine all day, but it's at night when I really listen. Sitting outside, or laying in bed with the windows open, the cicadas' elegiac song is a lullaby signaling the end of another summer.

Alliance Française blog

2011-08-17T08:45:00.001-04:00

If you enjoy discovering new blogs then you might be interested in this one sponsored by Alliance Française.

Recently launched by the Washington DC chapter of AF, the blog is a francophile's delight. The writing is contributed by AF staff, teachers, and members.

There are movie reviews, discussions about art and music, and posts about the joys of traveling and living in France. There are posts of local interest, but there are also posts that resonate with readers no matter where they live. One of my favorites is this post on the dangers of knowing just enough French to get you in trouble!

So, if you have time, check out this new addition to the blogosphere and let me know what you think.

Bonne journée!

Souvenirs de la France: Rue Ste. Claire

2011-08-15T10:25:00.007-04:00

When visitors talk about Annecy, they are often referring to Vielle Ville, the old town, with its many churches, canals, and narrow, winding streets. And one of the most well known streets is Rue Ste. Claire, the main street of old town.

This photo was taken on one of the few sunny days we had, with the sun illuminating the warmly colored houses and the cobbled street. I enjoy Rue. Ste. Claire more than any other street in the old city; it is always full of life with shops and cafés sharing the sidewalk with locals and visitors.

The shops here have a special "tucked away" quality. One of my favorites is the shop that sells all variety of market baskets. Because they are handmade, each one is just a little different.

I also love the shops that sell textiles for the home. Table linens, torchons, linens for the bed--oh, I could spend lots of time and lots of euros in those shops!

And then there are doors and passages that lead to who knows where. Does someone live at No. 10 Rue Ste. Claire? These heavy, wood doors are found all along the street, tucked in between the shops and cafes, and I always wonder what's behind them.

It's hard to believe I've only been home one week because this visit to France already seems so long ago . . .

Week-end Simple: Don't make your bed

2011-08-12T18:05:00.000-04:00

I enjoy keeping house and take pleasure in small, daily chores--opening the window blinds in the morning, washing dishes, folding linens. I even enjoy making the bed. But in the summer, I give myself permission to not make by bed.

There's something luxurious and sensual--even sexy--about an unmade bed. Soft percale and a light cotton blanket, relaxed, unfussy, casual, inviting.

An unmade bed reminds me of childhood summers at the beach when we would get out of bed early in the morning and head down to the ocean to make the most of the day.

School begins soon, and I will go back to rising at 5:30 and my early morning routines. But for the next few weeks I will continue to enjoy my summer and the pleasure of an unmade bed.

The image is of a beautiful painting by artist Sally Strand.

And the winner is . . .

2011-08-12T08:33:00.002-04:00

The randomly selected winners of the fleur de sel giveaway are Lisa of Pickles and Cheese, Rebekah of Cupcake Caramel, and Miss Becky at Seasonality. Ladies, if you send your mailing info, I'll post your package next week.

I loved Heather B's idea of putting fleur de sel on top of chocolate chip cookies (can't wait to try that) and Kate's idea of sprinkling a litte salt on her buttered baguette! Thanks to everyone for sharing; I enjoyed reading your suggestions and will be trying out a few of them.

Don't you love giveaways?

Souvenirs de la France

2011-08-10T08:36:00.004-04:00

Before I left for France, I promised to take lots of photos to share on My French Corner.

I don't have a good eye, and my camera is an ancient Kodak digital (I swear I get better photos with my iPhone!) But a promise is a promise, so here goes.

I've been thinking how to do this and decided on a series--Souvenirs de la France--memories of my recent trip. Like this view from my hotel balcony in Paris. I loved being on the top floor with its birdseye view, here looking down Rue Chevert toward Avenue de la Motte-Picquet.

Isn't it interesting how images can take you back to the moment?

Giveaway: Fleur de sel

2011-08-08T12:28:00.004-04:00

When choosing gifts to bring home from France, I try to select items that aren't readily available in the states, like a bag of CaramBar for my students (even though they won't understand the silly jokes inside the wrapper!)

One thing that travels well are these small containers of Camargue Fleur de Sel, so I made sure to bring home a few extras to giveaway here on My French Corner.

There will three winners, and to enter, simply leave a comment and tell us how you will use your fleur de sel. Winners will be announced on Friday.

And moi? I am going to enjoy mine generously sprinkled on some freshly sliced tomatoes!

Returning home

2011-08-05T11:53:00.000-04:00

It feels strange, coming back to my blog after so many weeks away. But I return renewed, with the fresh perspective afforded by the luxury of travel to a different country.

I've returned home with a deeper understanding of another culture, and, a deeper appreciation for my own. Over the next weeks and months, I look forward to sharing my experiences and photos and stories from France.

Going en vacances

2011-06-18T13:14:00.005-04:00

School finishes next week and then it's off to France for me. So, this may be my last post until I return in August.

While I'm trying to decide whether or not to take my computer so I can blog, for sure I'll be taking my camera. On this trip, I want to try to capture Annecy so I can share it with you (and I'll take some pics while in Paris to share on My French Corner).

I'm also thinking about some small items that I can bring back as giveaways; I already have a few things in mind, but I would love to hear your ideas.

So, what small gift would you like from France?

Week-end Simple: Indulge in café au lait

2011-06-17T06:21:00.004-04:00

During the week, morning coffee is little more than passing affair. Brew the espresso and sip it down for the reliable, unfailing morning wake-up.

I love my morning coffee, but I don't ~~have~~ take time to sit and drink several cups while reading the morning paper. The more likely scenario is brew and blog before grabbing my bag and heading out the door.

But the weekend, well, that's different. There's usually at least one leisurely breakfast, several cups of coffee, and this weekend, maybe a café au lait. I just added two footed coffee bowls to my Pillyvuyt set and can't wait to try them out. Filling the bowls with rich espresso, steaming milk, and a bit of sugar sounds perfect, doesn't it?

Bon week-end!

Making Macarons on The Kitchn

2011-06-15T17:19:00.002-04:00

I'm not a baker, but I know many of you are. So when I saw this post on The Kitchn, I had to pass it along.

Actually, The Kitchn post is a link to the original post on BraveTart, and is worth visiting for the photos alone!

I've never made this popular French sweet, have you?

And the winner is . . .

2011-06-15T06:07:00.002-04:00

The winner of the vintage French grain sack is Kate, of Une Vie Chic. Congratulations! Kate, if you email your info, I'll post the package later this week.

And thanks to all that entered; I enjoyed reading your comments and hope you continue to visit My French Corner.

Pistou

2011-06-13T20:41:00.004-04:00

At school, we talk about food. A lot. The three of us--my two teammates and I--love to cook, buy local and in season, and share recipes and ideas. Last week the conversation centered around basil and what to do with our already abundant harvests.

Pesto, of course.

But Cindy's husband doesn't care for pine nuts, and Kate said she doesn't either; the nuts make the pesto mealy. She suggested pistou--a simpler variation of pesto--basil and olive oil blended to the desired consistency.

Pistou is an olive oil based basil sauce from the south of France that closely resembles pesto. The way to make true pistou is by hand: tear the basil leaves into pieces first, then grind the leaves against the side of a mortar with a pestle to puree them into a silky, creamy sauce.

Kate also shared some of her favorite ways to enjoy pistou, and the one I tried for dinner this evening was poached eggs on a stale baguette drizzled with pistou. I confess to using my tiny Cuisinart instead of a mortar and pestle, but the result was excellent. Peasant fare, to be sure, but so, so delicious.

Do you have a favorite pistou recipe? I'd love to hear it!

Week-end Simple: Take care of what you have

2011-06-10T18:03:00.003-04:00

One of the temptations when moving into a new house is to start over with everything new. Start fresh, start over. But isn't it better to take care of what you already have?

When I moved in, the brass hardware on my front door was tarnished black, from years of neglect. But rather than replace it, I decided to polish it, bring it back to life, and, take care of it. I'm reminded of all the Hausmann apartments I've visited in Paris; they are still beautiful because someone takes care of them.

So this weekend, make time to take care of something--wash a sweater, polish a pair of your shoes, sew on a missing button. Taking care of what you have has its own, intrinsic reward.

Bon week-end!

Giveaway: Vintage French grain sack

2011-06-08T17:27:00.005-04:00

Back in January, I posted about a vintage grain sack I purchased on Etsy; I had plans to frame it and hang it in my kitchen.

But I've decided that the color--which is burlap--will be too dark in my small kitchen. Instead, I've decided to give away the vintage grain sack to one of my readers.

The sack is 48 inches long and 27 inches wide. It dates from 1964, and has a few small mends which add to its charm and authenticity. As I said, the color is a true burlap, with the oval emblem printed in black. You can click on the photo to get a closer look.

If you want to enter the giveaway, leave a comment on how you would use the grain sack. The winner will be randomly selected, and I'll announce it next Wednesday, a week from today.

It's a beautiful piece and I know it will make someone very happy.

Bonne chance!

My French Closet: The reveal

2011-06-05T15:50:00.008-04:00

Well, it's not one hundred percent finished, but enough so I can put my clothes away. The built-ins are painted; what remains to be painted are the interior walls and the baseboard trim, but that's going to have to wait until school finishes in a few weeks.

I'm very happy with the result: the shelves on the right hold my sweaters (at this point, one on each shelf), the shelves on the left hold my camis, tissue tees, and my accessories, and the bottom two shelves are perfect for my four pair of shoes!

The hanging space in the center is more than enough for tops that hang--black on the top, gray and navy on the bottom. What you can't see are my trousers, which are hanging to the left if you're standing inside the closet. There's also a shelf on the very top that runs all the way around the closet, but I couldn't seem to get that in the photo. You can click on the photo for a larger view.

I have a few more things to put away--my boots, my purse, and my suitcase--but it's great having all my clothes in one closet again!

Week-end Simple: Make a salad

2011-06-04T20:12:00.001-04:00

With so much to do on the inside of my house, the outside projects haven't really garnered much attention. Still, I managed to get some annuals planted in my small patio border garden, as well as some tomatoes, basil, and lettuce.

The lettuce must love its spot in the garden because I've been able to harvest five times since I planted. The crisp, tender leaves taste best sprinkled with a little fleur de sel and a whisper of vinaigrette. This evening I added a few tiny tomatoes, a perfect complement to the delicate leaves.

There is a special pleasure in eating food straight from the garden, something that you have planted and tended and harvested, n'est ce pas?

Bon week-end!

My French Closet: After

2011-05-30T11:28:00.000-04:00

Well, it's not completely finished, but it's almost there. The carpenter is coming back later this week to complete the finish work, and after that the closet will be ready for painting. At the moment, it's hard for me to imagine the finished product, but I know in a week's time, it should be ready for the reveal.

In case your wondering, I have tested out the various shelves--there's different depths and different spacing--and they're going to work out well. So, even though it's been more than three weeks in the making, all good things are worth waiting for, n'est-ce pas?

My French Closet: The progress

2011-05-18T20:03:00.000-04:00

Well, here's the progress so far (these projects always take longer than one expects, don't they?) One set of built-ins has been installed in my closet, and so far, so good. Of course, there's lots more to do--filling nail holes, sealing gaps, and of course, painting.

At the moment, it reminds me of the computer desk in my son's dorm room, but I'm confident that once it's trimmed and painted, I'll be pleased with the result. I placed a few sweaters on the shelves, to test the width and depth, and my sweater collection will fit perfectly.

The carpenter returns tomorrow, and I'll keep you posted.

My French Closet: The painting

2011-05-16T05:58:00.002-04:00

Over the weekend, work continued on my closet redo. This part--painting the shelves--was easy, but took most of the weekend because there is at least an hour drying time in between each coat of primer and paint. The color is Benjamin Moore Architectural White; I chose a satin finish rather than a semi-gloss.

I've also selected a paint color for the closet interior and the bedroom; "Edgecomb Gray," one of the Benjamin Moore Historic House Colors. More taupe than gray, it's a perfect neutral that will complement the white baseboards and trim.

I'm hoping the project will finish this week, and will post pics as the project moves forward.

My French Closet: The plan

2011-05-14T14:25:00.027-04:00

Apologies for not posting this yesterday as promised; I also apologize if your comment disappeared from a previous post. The Blogger platform was down, and a number of reader comments were lost.

The inspiration for my closet is the armoire. With its shelves and drawers and hanging space in one tidy package, the armoire is standard in many apartments and small homes that lack sufficient closet space.

Armoires are efficient and convenient; when you open the doors, you can see everything at a glance: folded items on open shelves, hanging space high enough so nothing touches the bottom, and maybe even a drawer or two for precious items.

I've always loved the idea of an armoire, but have never had a room big enough to hold one; as efficient as they are, an armoire can eat up a lot of space in a room. But here, in my new house, I can have the best of both by converting a closet into a built-in armoire.

Working with an architect and contractor, we came up with the interior closet plan posted above, that will provide plenty of hanging space and lots of open shelving/cubbies to hold my shoes, sweaters and folded items. I am not a DIYer which is why I needed help with the design and construction, although I am spending the weekend painting every single one of those shelves before they're installed next week.

So, if you're looking for ideas for your own closet, feel free to borrow my design (you can click on the image to enlarge). I'd love to hear about your project too!

My French Closet: Before

2011-05-12T17:09:00.001-04:00

Okay, it's not really French, but it is my closet!

In my bedroom, I'm fortunate to have a larger-than-average closet. At 38 inches, its deeper than other closets in the house, though a quirky configuration of rods and shelves and dormers (which you can't see in this photo) make some of the space impossible to access.

The closet is also high and long, but as you can see, the current set-up results in a lot of wasted space.

When I moved in, this closet had a set of inexpensive, hollow sliding doors that moved on a track. Before having the wood floor refinished, I removed the doors and the track. When the floor was completed, I decided I liked the closet without the doors, and now I have a true "walk in" closet. I know it's unusual to not have doors on a closet, but I keep the closet tidy so, the absence of doors doesn't bother me.

Another thing that's unusual about my bedroom is that I don't have any drawer space--by choice. Rather than a bulky dresser, I've always had cubby space in my closet, a series of built-ins to hold everything from shoes and lingerie to sweaters and scarves. This closet has only one shelf running the length of the closet which is where all of my sweaters and folded clothes are currently stored.

So, working with the contractor, we've designed a closet interior that will include floor-to-ceiling built-ins as well as plenty of space for hanging.

Tomorrow's post: The plan

Moving forward

2011-05-10T20:06:00.001-04:00

If you been reading My French Corner for a while, you might remember that back in November I moved to a new house. The move happened a few days before Thanksgiving and I had just enough time to move in, place the furniture, and prepare to entertain for the holidays. Since then I've been in conversation with an architect, a contractor, and a landscaper in preparation for some major interior and exterior changes.

Not wanting My French Corner to turn into a home renovation blog, I've refrained from posting about the house plans. As always, I wanted to stay on message, to retain the original intent of my blog.

But as I continue to engage in conversations with the architect and the contractor, I realize that my choices are driven by the same aesthetic that drives my blog: less is more, simple is better. To that end, I thought it might be fun to share my projects and the thinking behind them. So later this week I'll share my first major renovation project: my closet.

Au revoir to the blue jean

2011-05-02T04:30:00.003-04:00

Or, more precisely, the 100% cotton denim blue jean.

For months I've been shopping for a pair of jeans to fall in love with. But not just any jeans; I want a pair of 100% cotton denim jeans. Ones without elastane or lycra or whatever else is in jeans that make them s-t-r-e-t-c-h out ten minutes after you put them on.

I was willing to pay any amount, if only I could find some cotton denim jeans. So the search continued and what I learned is that jeans for women not only stretch, but, they also have names. GAP jeans have names like "Perfect," "Sexy," and "Always Skinny" (ah, don't I wish). Even my old faithful Levis were no longer available in cotton, and are sporting the names "Demi," "Bold," and "Supreme"(is it me, or do those names remind you of coffee?)

Then yesterday, I found myself in the men's department buying jeans for my son and found what I was looking for: 100% percent cotton denim jeans. Regular jeans. The waist fits, the length is good , and the price was affordable. I'll be the first to admit they look like guys jeans--a little roomy in the thigh, a little wide at the bottom; they're not perfect. But they're straight without being skinny and the right shade of blue and most important, they won't fall down minutes after I put them on.

In the meantime, if you are also mourning the death of denim as we knew it, can you let me know where you get your jeans?

And the winners are . . .

2011-05-01T09:03:00.001-04:00

First, I have to say the I LOVED your stories about your most memorable French meal. And, I was surprised by how many of those meals were enjoyed in unexpected places--you know, the little cafe you see as you're walking down the street and decide to duck in for a quick bite? Thank you for sharing and I wish I had enough copies of the book to give to each of you.

The winners are Cathy, from The House Where the Black Cat Lives, and fellow Francophile blogger Aesthetic Alterations; each will receive a copy of French Cooking in Ten Minutes. This is a beautiful reprint of Edouard de Pomiane’s classic collection of recipes for simply prepared meals illustrated with period pen and ink drawings. Ladies, email your info to me at annecychic@gmail.com, and I'll send your book this week.

Again, mille mercis for your comments, and, check back soon for another giveway!

Week-end Simple: Do something different

2011-04-30T11:46:00.000-04:00

One of the wonderful things about living in Washington, DC is that there are so many things going on and so much to do, especially on the weekends.

For example, this weekend is the 8th annual Open Air French Market in DC's Book Hill neighborhood. With its small storefronts and historic cobblestone streets, this neighborhood in upper Georgetown is one of my favorites. Away from the trendy shopping and traffic on M Street, it's the perfect location for the sidewalk cafes, the market, and the strolling musicians that will be a part of today's festivities.

I'm heading over there soon to do something a little different this weekend . . .

Bon week-end!

Giveaway: French Cooking in Ten Minutes

2011-04-27T19:09:00.001-04:00

I don't remember if I was first intrigued by the title (French cooking? ten minutes? really?), or the fact that a cookbook written more than 80 years ago is still being published.

Published in 1930 as La cuisine en dix minutes, ou l'Adaptation au rhythme moderne, this cookbook is both a culinary snapshot and a how-to book. It features advice on how to behave at the table and organize a meal, as well as recipes for everything from the perfect sautéed haricots verts to a sublime couer à la crème.

This book is small--5x7 inches--but packs so much utility, humor, and elegance into a tiny package, that I thought you might enjoy a copy for your own bookshelf. So, I'm giving away two copies of French Cooking in Ten Minutes.

To enter the giveaway all you have to do is share a comment about your perfect French meal (real or imagined!) The winners will be announced on Sunday.

Bon appétit et bonne chance!

Gâteau au yaourt

2011-04-25T05:20:00.001-04:00

For years I've been hearing about French yogurt cake and my first thought is always, "There such a thing as French yogurt?" A little research revealed that the cake recipe is French, not the yogurt.

I also discovered there are slight variations in the recipe: Dorie Greenspan makes hers with extra virgin olive oil, others use vegetable oil, and some dress up the cake with almonds, or raspberry filling.

Since this was my first attempt, I went with the basic recipe found on Clotilde Dusoulier's Chocolate & Zucchini. As I was putting the recipe together, it occurred to me, that, I had made this cake before. Yes, years ago, a variation made with sour cream!

So how was the result? A tougher crumb, and not as fine a texture as the sour cream cake, which makes sense due to the lower fat content (though the more likely explanation is my oven was too hot or I left the cake bake too long!) Still, the cake was delicious and could be eaten for breakfast, snack, or a dessert, just as Clotilde promised.

Gâteau au yaourt, is very easy to make and is often the first cake that French kids learn how to bake. Hmm, I wonder if my nephews Maxime and Jules know about this?

Have you ever baked French yogurt cake?

Week-end Simple: Celebrate what you believe

2011-04-23T15:09:00.001-04:00

For many of us, this is a week of quiet observance: Passover, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter.

It's been a reflective week for me; I've appreciated the spring break from school. It's given me time to slow down, to think, and get caught up on my life.

Outside the dining room window, my dogwood tree is full bloom. Remembering the legend of the dogwood, I snipped a few small branches to bring into the house, one more quiet observance.

Bon week-end!

Parisian Chic

2011-04-11T18:33:00.002-04:00

Like many of you, I've been thumbing my just-released-newly-purchased copy of Ines de la Fressange's Parisian Chic. What fun! Part style guide, part travel book, part personal shopper, there's a little something in this book for everyone.

What I love most about the book is that it doesn't take itself too seriously, which is perfect for someone like me, who does. Who wants to wear all-Hermes-all-the-time (and who can afford to?) Much more fun is pairing classic Vivier's with a pair of GAP jeans, right?

de la Fressange gives her blessing for mixing high and low end pieces, vintage with contemporary, as well as men's and women's clothing. For me, who rarely steps outside my uniform navy-gray-black-denim, this book is encouragement to be a little more adventurous in with my style.

Whether you buy it, borrow it, or browse it at the bookstore, this little book is worth the time.

Week-end Simple: Cook up a croque monsieur

2011-04-10T12:51:00.003-04:00

It's late Sunday morning. You've indulged by sleeping in, but now you're awake. And hungry.

With some butter and jam, that leftover bit of baguette from last night's dinner would be tasty, but you're in the mood for something more lunch-y.

You check the fridge for ingredients. Gruyère? Check. Butter? Check. Dijon? Check. Thinly sliced ham? Check. Et voila! You have what you need to cook up a croque monsieur.

Whether we have Proust and his grand-mère to thank for the popularity of this satisfying sandwich is unclear, but croque monsieur has been on French bistro menus for over a hundred years. And though I've never actually sampled a croque monsieur in France, its glorious gooey-ness is easy to replicate in my own kitchen. What's more is it's perfect for a brunch, a quick snack, or even a simple supper. Or, maybe all three . . .

Bon week-end!

The Boy Amelie

2011-03-13T12:32:00.003-04:00

In case you missed it, Anne Ditmeyer of Prêt a Voyager posted a wonerful piece on the filmmaker who found a roll of film in New York and vowed to find its owner. The filmmaker, who has been dubbed "the boy Amelie," and his amazing story can be found here. If you have a few minutes, and you want something to make you smile, check it out.

Week-end Simple: Learn French

2011-03-12T10:54:00.006-05:00

Seriously, you really can learn some useful French this weekend!

I have to thank my clever, beautiful sister Darcy for sending me the link to Daphnee, Your Lovely French Teacher. This is brilliant!

From the site: "Daphnée, a real Parisian, will introduce you to her city and teach you the day to day urban French, enabling you to deal with every kind of tricky situation. Whether you're looking for some ready-to-use and fun expressions for your next trip to Paris, or, if you're already familiar with the basics and you want to improve your spoken French, Daphnée is the ideal language guide."

I love the format (see it, hear it, say it in both French and English), and I'm in love with Anne Sophie Franck, the French actress who plays Daphnée. Sadly, the app is for iPhones and iPads only, but if you visit the site you can watch a few of the lessons and get a sense of this easy and fun way to capture some French.

Bon week-end!

Looking for an idea for a new series

2011-03-10T19:18:00.001-05:00

This has been such a busy week, mon dieu! I like to post on Monday and Wednesday, and write a week-end simple post on Friday or Saturday, but here it is, Thursday already!

I have a few posts planned, and a couple of giveaways coming up, but what I really want to do is another week-long series.

I enjoy writing a series of posts; it gives my writing focus, and occasionally it's fun to explore a topic in depth. I've done series' on tartes, wine, wardrobe, grocery shopping, tiny kitchen, living with less, cooking for one.

Just can't decide on a topic . . .

Suggestions?

French Breakfast Puffs

2011-03-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

These French breakfast puffs have been popping up all over the place. Last month they were featured on the beautiful food blog, Fresh, and last week there was a post on The Kitchn. Of course, the name caught my eye.

I'd never heard of French breakfast puffs, have never seen them in a boulangerie or patisserie, have never heard them mentioned on French foodie sites or seen a recipe for them in a French cookbook. Yet there they were, French breakfast puffs.

What I discovered is that there is nothing French about these breakfast puffs. In fact, they are a Betty Crocker recipe that's been around for years! They are easy to make, require the simplest ingredients, and if reviews are to be believed, they are delicious.

But French? It must be the butter . . .

Week-end Simple: Roast a chicken

2011-03-04T05:32:00.000-05:00

Since I've moved and started cooking for one, I've been eating less meat. Vegetable gratins, eggs, pasta, and soups are quick to prepare and have satisfied my desire for comfort food during these cold, winter months.
But this weekend, I think I'd like to roast a chicken.

The best recipe I've found for roasting chicken is from Alice Water's The Art of Simple Food. Some salt, herbs, the right pot, and the freshest chicken you can buy result in the perfect entree for a weekend meal.

Bon week-end!

Foley + Corinna: Is this my bag?

2011-02-28T19:06:00.000-05:00

Anyone who's known me for a while is familiar with my handbag saga. I am not a purse person; I have always found purses to be more accessory than I want. Need to stash my stuff? That's what pockets are for.

It's not that I don't lust after purses--I do! Over the years I've purchased many purses, always thinking I've found the right one, but then end up returning them. An expensive handbag is a commitment and I want to make sure I the right one, n'est-ce pas? I've tried bags from Longchamp, Sequoia, Junior Drake, Marc Jacobs, Furla, but none have ever found a permanent home in my closet.

Then I spied this Foley + Corinna Mid-City Tote. I like the simplicity, the short drop handle, the versatility--can be carried on the arm, worn cross body, or even carried as a large clutch. It is unfussy and straightforward, unlikely to go out of style. The price tag is obscene, but, it would probably be the last handbag I buy for a very long time.

Thoughts?

Week-end Simple: Take a nap

2011-02-26T15:50:00.000-05:00

I meant to post earlier today, but I took a nap.

During the week, my fifth grade students and I are envious of the preschoolers in our building. "Can we take a nap, too?" They have no idea how much I want to say "Yes!!"

Alas, napping is a weekend luxury. This weekend, my plans changed at the last minute, and I found myself with a little extra time on my hands. What to do, I wondered. So I decided to take a nap.

Bon week-end!

Ratatouille gratin

2011-02-21T19:14:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago, Dana Velden wrote a beautiful post about using up all the bits of vegetables she had in her kitchen. Today, her meditation inspired me to do the same.

A small eggplant, onions, a can of diced tomatoes, and an end piece of Comté is what I had in my fridge and pantry. The onion, tomatoes, and cheese are staples; I bought the eggplant for Saturday's dinner, but didn't use it. Today I decided not to do a daily shopping, but instead, use up these bits I had in my kitchen. Maybe my recipe will inspire you the way Dana's post inspired me.

I heated some olive oil in my braiser, rough chopped the onions, added them to the oil, and let them brown. I diced the eggplant, added it to the onion, and let it brown slightly. Next, I added a can of diced tomatoes, seasonings, and let the whole mixture cook until the juices started to thicken. I placed the mixture into a small gratin dish, topped it with the cheese, and baked it in a 350 oven until the mixture was bubbly and the cheese was crusty.

The addition of the cheese, and the baking, changed it from a traditional ratatouille to a satisfying gratin, perfect comfort food; a glass of wine and bread turned it into a feast.

I love being inspired in the kitchen, and find some of my most satisfying meals are created when "using it all up."

Garance and Scott: A love story

2011-02-20T18:26:00.000-05:00

The Sartorialist. Garance Doré. There are more than a few fans among you, oui?

Well, if you are a fan of their famed street style, this article from New York magazine is a must read.

That's all I need to say . . .

Week-end Simple: Read a book

2011-02-19T16:48:00.000-05:00

I'm fortunate to have a three day weekend ahead of me, and for once I have no commitments, no report cards due, no house guests, no plans. This weekend, I'm going to get caught up on my reading.

I read a lot and often, but during the school year it's mostly kid lit or books about how to be a better teacher. But this weekend I've decided to treat myself and read a few of those books that are in my 'must read' stack. A treat, indeed.

Bon week-end!

The Makers Project

2011-02-17T18:32:00.000-05:00

On Monday I posted about Jennifer Causey's Simply Breakfast blog and the companion books. Did you know that Jennifer also has several other books including Simply Paris?

But what captured my attention is her most recent endeavor, The Makers Project. Causey states she is constantly "seeking handmade and artisan-produced products" and "people who embrace a more tactile way of living." So, she decided to start photographing them. The result is The Makers Project.

Looking at the photos and reading about the individual makers reminded me of the European craftsmen and artisans; we often hear about how some craft will be lost because younger generations are making other choices. Yet Jennifer Causey is documenting how craft is being preserved right here in the states.

Simply Breakfast

2011-02-14T05:36:00.000-05:00

It's a few minutes after 5:00 a.m. Shortly, I'll be heading out the door to get an early start to a very busy week.

Breakfast this morning? Ah, it's too early for me; I'll take some yogurt and jam to eat later in the morning, a breakfast inspired by Jennifer Causey on her blog, Simply Breakfast .

Brooklyn photographer Jennifer Causey has been blogging for years, cataloging daily breakfasts in her gorgeous photographs. Her spare but lush photos have an almost European aesthetic, and remind us that there is great beauty in the ordinary and everyday.

Love the photographs on Jennifer's blog? Then you might want to check out the companion books, Simply Breakfast, The Art of Breakfast and Simply Breakfast, More Please.

I hope to post more about Jennifer later this week, but now I've got to run! Bon lundi!

Week-end Simple: Make a valentine

2011-02-12T15:29:00.000-05:00

Monday is Valentine's Day, and while I'm not one for celebrating Hallmark holidays, I think Valentine's Day can be an occasion to express affection for anyone close.

When my son was young I always enjoyed making tiny valentines with him--cutting and gluing bits of paper, using oil pastels--that I would put in his lunch box or under his pillow. In turn, he would make valentines for his father and for me. This always made the day more about the expression of love than the buying of a card or gift.

Even if you don't have small children, there is something special about making a small valentine for someone you care about.

Bon week-end!

Parisian kitchens on The Kitchn

2011-02-10T18:36:00.000-05:00

Okay, I know this is a cheap post, but when I see these posts on other blogs I can't resist sharing with you!

To Paris!

2011-02-09T05:01:00.000-05:00

Last week I finalized my summer travel plans to France; I'll be heading to Annecy in July, returning in August. I can't wait to see my sister and her family, and the friends I've made over the years.

Plus, I've planned a little side trip to Paris--three days in the City of Lights! I'll be traveling with a friend who has never been to Paris, so, it will be like experiencing it again for the first time.

Since we'll be there for just a few days, renting an apartment isn't an option; most apartments rent for a minimum of five days. But, I think I've found a small hotel, close to many of the sights a first-time visitor will want to see.

If you had three days to spend in Paris, where would you stay, where would you eat, and what would you see?

Guest Post: Advanced Editing 401

2011-02-07T04:13:00.000-05:00

Since former blogger Stephanie from Bonjour Madame and C'est si Bon said au revoir, there's been an empty space in the blogosphere. I miss her travel stories and photos, and the posts about decorating, fragrance, and style icons that populated Bonjour Madame. Then I was invited over to C'est si Bon, where Stephanie posted about more personal journeys that resonated with many readers.

Although no longer blogging, Stephanie still has projects to share, and I'm so happy she agreed to guest post on My French Corner. Merci beaucoup, Madame Stephanie!

I want to thank My French Corner for inviting me to guest post. I have been a long time admirer of this blog from the beginning.

If you read my former blog, you know that I am a fan of de-cluttering. I do it constantly and am known to be ruthless. I had no idea what an amateur I was in the beginning. It went something like this. I would de-clutter, think I did a great job, pat myself on the back, then months later decide to de-clutter once more and in the process, would wonder how some items made it past my first edit. Each de-cluttering session made me ask harder questions. I wanted to get to the root of it.

I’ve found different answers depending on the category. With clothes, I might have held onto a smaller size with the hope of it fitting one day. With decor, I might not have taken a fresh look at how it looked in the space. Sentimental items usually made the cut because it reminded me of an event or person and I wanted to hold on. However, the number one stumbling block I come across is recognizing and having to admit expensive mistakes. Ouch.

My goal is to edit by getting rid of the wrong pieces and carefully adding the right ones. If you are not at this point, it’s hard to de-clutter the right way. With that in mind, I finally faced my Hermes scarves. I bought my first Hermes scarf in Paris and the whole experience was magical. I loved going to the store and choosing a gorgeous red scarf. Fast forward a few years later and I now have a small collection. I appreciate their beauty and love the details. But, after much deliberation and internal monologue, have decided they are not right for me.

After taking an honest hard look at them, here are the reasons why they do not work for me.

I’m not fond of the square shape. They lend to fussy knots and fidgeting through my day, therefore making me uncomfortable.
I feel stuffy wearing them. To me, the silk is thick and stiff and I dislike how it feels around my neck.
Wearing one makes me feel about twenty years older than I am. (I think this is a result of the stuffy feeling, but also I’m just not that aristocratic and formal.)
Most importantly, I never wear them. They sit unopened in their boxes, taking up closet shelf space.

I’ve known this for over a year now, but didn’t want to admit it. I wanted them to work for me. Isn’t every self respecting female supposed to love Hermes scarves? What was wrong with me? But then I realized nothing is wrong with me; they just don’t fit my lifestyle. I actually love scarves, but the ones I reach for daily are the long cashmere variety in winter or the whisper light silk or linen long scarves in the summer. Le sigh.....a very expensive lesson learned. But it’s a good sigh, because now I know what to focus on. Remember, edit the wrong pieces and carefully add the right ones.

All is not lost. I plan to sell them and recoup the expensive part of this mistake. And here’s where the sting softens. The proceeds will go toward saving goals for a trip to Paris. Letting the iconic scarves go will allow me to follow my real goals instead of clinging to an idea that never worked for me. As for Advanced Editing 401, apply this logic to your things and see if it works for you. Ask hard questions and make the space that will allow you to move forward.

Psst . . .

2011-02-05T12:35:00.000-05:00

Coming Monday, a guest post from one of our favorite bloggers . . .

Week-end Simple: Set a pretty table

2011-02-04T21:18:00.000-05:00

It's the depths of winter; the days are too short, the weather is too cold, and there's lots of snow for some. Maybe you could brighten your weekend and make one of your meals extra special by setting a pretty table.

I know we all set the table for meal time, but I'm talking something special here. Bring out the pressed table linens and the sterling flatware and candles.

I'm not suggesting anything formal, but rather simple elegance. And the meal? It could be a simple roast chicken, or humble eggs, or even a bowl of soup. It really doesn't matter what you serve when you set a pretty table, n'est-ce pas?

Bon week-end!

French Twist

2011-02-02T04:38:00.000-05:00

Nothing like spring fashions to give us something to look forward to, n'est-ce pas? Even if your not looking to buy, you have to check out Talbots Spring Look Book and online catalog. The ad campaign for spring? French Twist!

Back in May I posted about Talbots Fall 2010 collection, their changing demographic and their new, hip appeal. This Spring 2011 collection will not disappoint; the looks are fresh without being trendy and classic without being stuffy.

Inspired by old-school (think 1950s) Paris but tailored for a modern aesthetic, the sheath dresses are classic and the skirts are elegant yet playful, with names like "Tres Jolie" and "Champs-Élysées."

Alas, I'm not a dress or skirt gal, but I could definitely see myself in a pair of these slim ankle trousers with that pair of four inch black Stuart Weitzman heels that are hanging out in my closet!

Merci!

2011-02-01T14:33:00.000-05:00

A big thank you to those who commented on my January 29 post; I appreciate your kind words and support.

I think every blogger enjoys comments, and I'm no exception. But for me, blogging has become a way for me to write for an audience, even if I never hear from my audience. My struggle is not the lack of comments, it's the lack good ideas.

I'm not accomplished, but I enjoy writing. So much in fact, it's what I teach all day. Granted, teaching writing to fifth graders is not glamorous, but blogging has made me a better writing teacher. I carefully choose my words, my sentence structure, and continue to revise posts even after they're ~~published~~ finished--all things I encourage my students to do.

Again, thanks so much for reading, for commenting, for encouraging. For now, I'll continue to hang out here at my French corner, but, who knows what the future will bring.

My sweet son

2011-01-31T04:16:00.000-05:00

My son arrives home from college tonight, a short break between the winter and spring term.

Today, after work, I will bake his favorite cookies, give his room a quick clean, and leave a small gift for him on his bedside table, a book he's been wanting to read.

And for the next week I'll bask in his stories about school, friends, his current favorite music. I'll listen to him play the piano and the house will be filled with waltzes and sonatas (or the music from Final Fantasy XI). I'll tease him about how much longer his hair is since the last time I saw him. I will celebrate how big his world has become and how easily he moves through that world.

I'll notice the shoes on the floor, the crumbs on the counter, the unmade bed, the coat and books strewn everywhere, but I won't complain. Because for a few days, my son will be home and the house will be filled with certain, reckless joy.

L'avenir, or the future

2011-01-29T13:43:00.000-05:00

Earlier in the week my friend Leigh asked why I hadn't been posting. When I went back to look at the blog, I realized almost two weeks had passed since my last post, and, I have no good reason other than I've been unusually busy. Sometimes, we are just busy, n'est-ce pas?

A classroom that demands a lot of time and a new house that needs lots of work have kept me busy for months; blogging has slipped. Some days, I don't have the time, and some days I simply struggle for writing ideas. And some days I consider a new blog, a different blog inspired by the home design and renovation blogs I visit.

I don't like to whine or vent on my blog, so I apologize. And I do like to stay on message, stay true to my original intent of " . . . exploring ways to bring a bit of France into my home . . . ways to introduce small but authentic French touches into your life." I regularly need to ask myself if that's what I'm doing.

I know other bloggers have puzzled through this. As I look back over the nearly 300 posts on my blog, I wonder if I've said what I wanted to say, if there's any more to write about. I wonder if my trip to France this summer will inspire me to continue blogging, or, if it's time to close up shop . . .

Week-end Simple: Drink chocolat chaud

2011-01-28T18:56:00.000-05:00

Inspired by our first big snow of the year, these past two days I've been drinking sinful amounts of chocolat chaud.

I've had two snow days from school, and it's been satisfying being home, enjoying the snow, and indulging in late morning cups of rich hot chocolate.

I don't have a favorite chocolate, though many swear by the French Valrhona. But, I think any quality chocolate with a high percent of cocoa solids will do. I also like to sprinkle a little salt on my chocolat chaud--strange, I know--but I enjoy the combined sweet and salty flavors.

So whether it's snowing in your world or not, wouldn't it be nice to enjoy a cup of deep, rich chocolat chaud this weekend?

Bon week-end!

Métaphore

2011-01-17T06:19:00.000-05:00

If you follow My French Corner, you know my love of kitchen textiles. I'm delighted by the way color and texture can combine to create utilitarian items, like dishtowels, that can be as beautiful as more expensive, decorative textiles.

I love patterned kitchen textiles and have a special love for those made in France; European designers see the opportunity to make something simple, like a dishtowel, into a thing of beauty, n'est-ce pas?

Which is why I was excited to discover Métaphore, a shop that carries European linens. Located near Yale on New Haven's Chapel Street, Métaphore carries several lines of kitchen textiles, including Libeco and my personal favorite, Moutet. You can also shop Métaphore online by visiting their website.

Bon lundi!

Week-end Simple: Brew a pot of tea

2011-01-14T19:17:00.000-05:00

Recent French Chic posts on the subject of tea reminded me that it's been a long time since I brewed a pot.

I received a housewarming gift of Mariage Frères Earl Grey Silver Tips tea; I love design of the tin--black enamel with a creamy yellow Mariage Frères label that probably hasn't changed since the late 1800s.

I'm thinking that this would be a perfect weekend to enjoy a pot of tea.

Bon week-end!

Ceci n’est pas un Birkin

2011-01-13T06:42:00.000-05:00

If you've always dreamed of owning a Birkin, this may be your chance.

Well, sort of.

For $35 you can own the Together Bag, a canvas tote featuring a screen printed version of the iconic Hermès's Birkin. The Together Bag comes from Thursday Friday, a design team who are into "accessible high style."

You can read more about Thursday Friday on their site, or check out this recent New York Times piece about the Together Bag.

Culinaria France

2011-01-10T04:15:00.000-05:00

Browsing the bargain shelves at Barnes and Noble I always seem to find a book: books on decorating, books for my classroom, and this find on French cuisine.

Culinaria France is part of the successful Culinaria series, which includes volumes on Italy, Greece, Spain, as well as France. More than cookbooks, these beautiful books are filled with information about the food and wines of each country.

Culinaria France is organized into 12 gastronomic regions--Ile de France, Provence, the Loire Valley--and features food specialties and recipes from each region. But there are also discussions on regional cheeses, breads, and wines, as well as information on how each region capitalizes on its natural resources. Beautifully photographed and illustrated, Culinaria France is a primer on French gastronomy, where you can read up on topics including the history of the Parisian baguette to the salt farmers of Carmargue and the wines of Languedoc.

If you are a serious foodie, or interested in more than recipes and cooking, you will appreciate what the Culinaria series offers. The series has recently been relaunched with a new format and new photos, and whether you check it out from the library, browse a volume at the bookstore, or, pick up a bargain copy, you won't be disappointed.

French Finds on Etsy: Vintage grain sacks

2011-01-07T04:06:00.000-05:00

Since moving in to my new house I've purchased a few things--my Staub braiser, my Pullyviyt dishes, and a vintage grain sack from Simply French Vintage on Etsy.

Simply French Vintage is owned by David and Jane, a couple from the UK who live in France. They have a number of these grain sacks available for sale in their Etsy shop, as well as other vintage French items.

This sack that I purchased is from the 1960s; there are a couple of tiny mends which add to its charm and authenticity. And it's large--27 inches wide, 48 inches long.

I've seen these grain sacks made into throw rugs, or into pillows; my current plan is to have it stretched and framed under glass and hang it in my kitchen after my renovation on a tall, narrow that will lead into the kitchen from the dining room. But if you have an idea, I'd love to hear it!

French Finds on Etsy: Paris calendars

2011-01-05T21:53:00.000-05:00

Looking for the perfect 2011 calendar? Visit Little Brown Pen and you may just find it.

There is the perpetual calendar which is creative and clever, and captures a lot of what Little Brown Pen is all about. Click here and take a minute to watch the video;
I guarantee you'll love it.

Then, there is the sweet, business card size mini-calendar
that is perfect for almost anywhere. And my personal favorite, the Paris calendar, printed on archival paper so the photographs can be trimmed and framed at the end of each month.

Nichole and Evan Robertson are the creative force behind Little Brown Pen and you can read about them here, on their Etsy site.

French Finds on Etsy: Chanel button jewelry

2011-01-04T04:22:00.000-05:00

No, this isn't authentic Chanel jewelry, but it is an authentic Chanel button! Located in the UK, Sarah, known as speedster310 on her Etsy shop, has great jewelry fashioned from her collection of Chanel buttons.

I don't have a single piece of Chanel in my wardrobe, but this seller's beautiful pieces make Chanel within reach. I love chunky bracelets so I am tempted by this black cuff adorned with a gold Chanel button. I also love this artist's take on the traditional Tiffany silver link bracelet adorned with a Chanel silver logo button. And there is something so lovely about the signature black and white logo button centered in this vintage style silver necklace.

Vintage Chanel buttons are collectors items; I've seen some sell for as much as 150 USD, but these original pieces are priced at half that, and make beautiful use of these classic logo buttons. And if you don't see something in her shop that you like, this artist "can make anything for you" from her collection of Chanel buttons.

So, what would you like?

French Finds on Etsy: Cathryn Nicholson prints

2011-01-03T04:58:00.000-05:00

I'm not exactly sure how I discovered UK designer and illustrator Cathryn Nicholson's Etsy site, but I'm so happy that I did. Cathryn sells under Cathryn's Designs, and I know some of you will adore her Chanel parfum bottles.

These are prints of Cathryn's original illustrations, which are affordable--about 20 USD--and perfect for a store bought frame. If shoes and purses are more your thing, you'll want to check out her illustrations of the iconic Christian Louboutin heels or Mulberry's classic Bayswater handbag.

I could easily imagine one of these parfum prints in a bedroom, bath, or dressing room. Or how about a series of three hung together?

You can see more of Cathryn's fashion illustration at Cathryn's Designs, or check out her Pencil Stiches blog!

French Finds on Etsy

2011-01-02T20:55:00.000-05:00

I am a huge Etsy fan and can spend hours browsing everything from vintage linens to abstract art. For me, Etsy is what magazines and catalogs are for others: a chance to browse and window shop for ideas and inspiration.

Last week I had a break from school and I used the time to catch up on reading, sleeping, visiting, and of course, browsing Etsy. Then, I thought it would be fun to share some of the French inspired finds I found, and hope that you will share any that you've discovered.

So this week it's going to be another series on My French Corner: French Finds on Etsy. Some items are authentic French, others are French inspired, and others are, well, you'll just have to wait and see!

Tiny Kitchen Tour: Merci and bonne année

2011-01-01T10:42:00.000-05:00

Thanks so much for visiting this week and following my tiny kitchen tour. I appreciate your thoughtful comments, and your suggestions will help me think through some possible solutions.

I also think I'm a little bit homesick for my old house, especially this kitchen. I loved the crisp white cabinets, the inviting lighting, and the way the wood floor warmed up the space. But most important, it was the place where everyone ended up no matter how large the gathering. It is the place of some of my fondest memories.

But it's a new year, a new time in my life. There's no reason why I can't create a kitchen in my new house that I will enjoy just as much, a space that is inviting, and where everyone will want to gather.

And bonne année to my readers; thank you for gathering at My French Corner. I wish you all good health and much happiness in this new year!

Tiny Kitchen Tour: Open or closed kitchen?

2010-12-31T04:19:00.000-05:00

The one thing that hasn't shown up in the other photos is this countertop and kitchen pass-through.

I like the idea of an open kitchen, and enjoy talking to friends while I'm in the kitchen and they sit at the dining room table. But this pass through opening is too low to do that, and, it feels like I'm a short order cook in a diner.

Also, the pass through visually chops up the room. You can tell from this photo that there's way too much going on for such a small space (and that doesn't include all the repair work that needs to be done on the walls!)

A while back, I read this post on The Kitchn, about open v. closed kitchens, and I have to say, I'm really torn on what to do. Opening the kitchen would create an island, and I could hang out with friends in the living room and the dining room while I'm in the kitchen. The other part of me wants a closed kitchen, and to keep my dining room more formal. Do you prefer an open or closed kitchen?

One thing I know for sure is that it needs to be all or nothing--completely open, or completely closed--because standing at this pass through makes me want to say, "Do you want fries with that?"

Tiny Kitchen Tour: Pantry

2010-12-30T04:30:00.000-05:00

One thing I really miss about my old house is the pantry. If you've been following My French Corner for a while, you might remember last winter I posted about that pantry. Created from reclaimed space under the stairs, deep and high, it was walk-in pantry with a door. In my new kitchen, what serves as a pantry are eight shallow shelves just to the right of my stove.

I actually like the shallow shelving (these are 7 inches, but I think 8 inches would be the perfect depth), and the height takes full advantage of wall space. The location is makes great use of what would otherwise be dead space; appliances can't placed here because the steps to the basement would be blocked. Today the pantry is a little bare, but even filled, I think it's enough space.

But I would like a door on my pantry; items that aren't frequently used collect dust: my oversize serving platter, my dishes for entertaining, my cookbooks. When I look at photos of kitchens with open shelving, I wonder if those dishes ever get dusty?

I'm considering a pocket door when I renovate the kitchen, or maybe framing in the space and adding a door to create a pantry similar to what these homeowners did. I also like the commercial look of this narrow rolling unit, but it doesn't solve the open shelving issue. There may even be the option to move the pantry to another part of the kitchen, or maybe even another place in the house. We'll just have to wait and see . . .

Tiny Kitchen Tour: Appliances

2010-12-29T09:28:00.000-05:00

On the subject of appliances and doors colliding, how about this one? Not that I would purposely open the oven door and the fridge at the same time, but let's just say it's happened once or twice.

As I said in yesterday's post, this kitchen was not designed for large appliances; the footprint is small and most of it is occupied by appliances that are not the right scale for the space. At 33 inches wide and 34 inches deep, this fridge occupies a lot of precious kitchen real estate, and the interior space is so much more than I need. I shop daily, so my refrigerator is never full; space for perishables--cheese, butter, milk, eggs--is what I need.

Earlier this year, Apartment Therapy posted on small apartment size fridges, and I continue to refer to that list as I plan my kitchen renovation. And this jewel box kitchen with its column fridge never ceases to inspire me.

In the meantime, this refrigerator door-oven door thing in the photo gives new meaning to the phrase "from fridge-to-oven!"

Tiny Kitchen Tour: Retrofitting

2010-12-28T04:41:00.000-05:00

When considering the use of space in an old house, it's important not to apply modern standards; houses that were considered luxurious in the 1940s seem modest by today's standards.

Pre-war houses built in the 1940s were designed for the way people lived then. For example, dishwashers were considered a luxury item and were not common in American kitchens. So when the open door of my dishwasher collides with a cabinet drawer, I have to remember that this kitchen was never designed for a dishwasher.

As you can see in the photo (click on the pic for a better look), when my cutlery drawer and my dishwasher door are both open, well, let's just say that I can empty the dishwasher without taking a step. Rather than thinking of my kitchen as too small, I remind myself that the kitchen was not designed for oversize modern appliances, and certainly not for a dishwasher.

Tour my tiny kitchen

2010-12-27T15:51:00.000-05:00

I have a little more time for blogging this week so I thought it might be fun to do a tour of my tiny kitchen, a kind of mini-series, if you will.

I wanted my first photo to be of the entire kitchen, but I couldn't find the proper angle to get capture it without going outside, or standing on the countertop!

What you see here is the long view, captured while standing on the steps leading down to my basement. I tried to make it look as big as possible by angling the camera--how did I do?

On the right is my sink, the dishwasher covered by the countertop, and my stove with a microwave above; what you can't see is the hulking refrigerator just across from the stove. And right next to the fridge is a cabinet with a little more counter space.

What the photo does show is the fabulous light that pours in every afternoon; it's one of the kitchen's best features.

Ile de France products

2010-12-27T09:43:00.000-05:00

While cheese shopping at my new neighborhood market, I (re)discovered the Ile de France line of products. It's been a while since I'd seen the brand in the grocery store; either Whole Foods doesn't carry the line, or I've completely missed it.

Ile de France is not the cheese maker, but rather an importer of French cheeses to the United States. Like wine, French cheese is protected under the Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC). For example, Comté can only be called Comté if it is produced in the region Franche-Comté. The history of Ile de France products is interesting; you can read about it on their website. And while you're there, you can browse the very long list of recipes that includes everything from raclette to mac and cheese!

You can't miss the distinct blue, white, and red packaging--clearly French. For the holiday, I decided on the Camembert along with some Ile de France mini-toasts, and both were delicious. I'm thinking maybe I'll try their brie en croute for my next get together.

Have you tried any Ile de France products?

Francophile goodies

2010-12-22T04:51:00.000-05:00

For those of you who love all things French, design*sponge contributing editor Anne Ditmeyer has put together a 2010 gift guide for the francophile.

Ditmeyer, who resides in Paris and has her own blog, Prêt à Voyager, assembled the guide, selecting items that would "add a little Parisian charm to your life."

I'm not encouraging you to spend, only to browse and enjoy the goodies. My favorites? I have an ongoing love affair with kitchen linens, so naturally j'adore the chic linen dishtowels from Basic French. Although, I could easily be tempted by a pair of Bensimon sneakers . . .

Et vous? Does anything catch your fancy?

My tiny (French) kitchen

2010-12-20T04:59:00.000-05:00

Did I mention that I have a small kitchen? Okay, it's bigger than Jill Santopietro's tiny kitchen, but not by much. And it isn't really French, but it reminds me so much of the small apartment kitchens in Paris, so it's fun to pretend.

I am in the process of planning a renovation, but the kitchen still has to work for me now, so I've been looking for ways to save/increase space.

I was happy to discover this over-the-sink cutting board; you can click on the pic for a better view. Wow, what a difference it has made! In addition to being a cutting board it's a great place to set a few dishes to dry, and it has increased my counter space. What a great find.

Have you found ways to save/stretch space in a tiny kitchen? I would love to hear your ideas!

Week-end Simple: Polish your silver

2010-12-18T10:01:00.000-05:00

If you are overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done before the Christmas holiday--buying and wrapping gifts, putting up a tree, decorating, baking--then you will want to skip this post. You don't need to add another thing to your "to do" list. On the other hand, if you are in need of a simple, satisfying task, read on.

Over the years, polishing my silver has become as much a part of my holiday preparation as setting up the Christmas tree. Like ironing, polishing silver is one of those tasks that requires no attention but yields instant gratification. I actually polish my silver for Thanksgiving, but like to do some touch-up just before December 25.

I don't have a special set of flatware for the holidays; I use the same mismatched vintage silver forks, knives, and spoons all year round. But polishing makes even my everyday silver look new, and adds a sparkle and gleam to my holiday table.

How about you?

Bon week-end!

Macaron of the Month Club

2010-12-15T18:07:00.000-05:00

I can't take any credit for this post, I'm simply passing it along: this week The Kitchn featured a Macaron of the Month Club from Dominique's Sweets in California's Sonoma County.

I love the idea!

J'adore "Tiny Kitchen"

2010-12-13T04:05:00.000-05:00

Since moving to my new house, I've been obsessed with finding ways to make my small kitchen more efficient and pleasant. Happily, my obsession led me to a delightful series of cooking videos, "Tiny Kitchen with Jill Santopietro."

At the time the series was filmed, Santopietro was a recipe tester for the New York Times, and did all of her cooking and recipe testing in her very tiny New York City kitchen. In fact, the "Tiny Kitchen" series was renamed "Kitchen 4B" -- Santopietro's apartment number.

Not only are the videos expert and informative, Jill Santopietro is charming. She's a natural in front of the camera, and watching her turn out fabulous food in that tiny space serves as a reminder that it's not the kitchen that makes the cook.

Those of you who appreciate small kitchens will enjoy Santopietro's take on the 12 top tools for a small kitchen (Kristi, you will love this!) She is also expert at using mise en place, and cleaning-as-you-go to keep surfaces clean and clear.

And even if you don't cook in a small kitchen, treat yourself to a dose of "Tiny Kitchen"--you'll love it!

Paris in the snow

2010-12-10T06:29:00.000-05:00

By now, everyone knows that Paris has been besieged by a huge snowfall. Here's a link to a photo slideshow with pics from around Paris. Strangely beautiful, n'est ce pas?

And the winner is . . .

2010-12-10T06:04:00.001-05:00

If I were selecting a winner based on the creativity of the responses, it would have been impossible to pick! But, I left the choice to chance, and the random generator selected Heather B for the Limoges giveaway.

Heather, if you email me your mailing information, I'll mail your gift on Monday. Thanks to all for entering!

Week-end Simple: Make breakfast

2010-12-10T06:04:00.000-05:00

Blustery winds, snow, cold mornings. There's no denying that for many of us, the cold weather has arrived, and this weekend wouldn't it be so nice to stay between the warm sheets a little longer, and wake-up to a real breakfast?

Since I've moved, I'm leaving earlier in the mornings, and at 5:30 am, I'm not ready for anything more than a coffee. I'll take some cheese and bread or dried apricots and almonds with me, to have a little later in the morning, but, I really miss my morning breakfast ritual.

So this weekend I plan to enjoy my favorites--tartine, raspberry jam, fresh juice, and lots of coffee with milk.

What's your favorite weekend breakfast?

Bon week-end!

Staub brasier

2010-12-08T06:32:00.000-05:00

If you've been following My French Corner, you know that I recently moved to a smaller house. I had to pare down considerably, especially in my kitchen.

In this tiny kitchen, storage for pots and pans is at a premium, with long handles and lids presenting the biggest challenge. So after thinking it through, I decided to swap out several pieces of cookware for one. Out went two skillets, a large sauce pan, a paella pan, and a dutch oven, and in came a 4-quart Staub brasier. Now, one piece of cookware does the job of five.

The brasier, a beautiful graphite color, is pretty enough to sit on the stovetop when I'm not using it. There are no long handles to get in the way, and because I can leave it sitting out, I don't have to contend with the lid rattling around in a drawer or cabinet. So far I've used my Staub to prepare eggs, grilled cheese, soup, roast chicken, fish, and rice.

Was the swap worth it? Well, the jury is still out, but so far I think the five-for-one-trade was worth it.

What do you think?

LeSportsac saga

2010-12-06T05:59:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows me can vouch for this: I don't carry a purse. I know, I know, it's very un-French.

So, what do I use? Well, for years, I've carried a small 3-Zip cosmetic bag from Le Sportsac. I bought it for a France trip years ago, and it was perfect: my passport and cell phone fit into the top zip compartment, my francs/euros in the second, and I stashed my dollars in the third. The bag fit nicely in my hand or pocket, and ever since that trip, it's functioned as both my wallet and purse.

The problem is that it's easy to lose LeSportsac. For example, say I'm at the market on the day before Thanksgiving and I put LeSportsac down and forget to pick it up and I walk out of the market and don't realize it until 7:00 that evening?

Au revoir, LeSportsac.

I need to get a purse.

Limoges Giveaway

2010-12-05T20:28:00.000-05:00

Just in time for the holidays, a lovely, little, Limoges giveaway!

This miniature Limoges plate has a diameter of 1-1/2" and is in excellent condition. It is set in a small plate stand, for sitting up on a table, or hanging on a wall. The color is a deep raspberry with a gold gilt rim and gilt scene. The scene is a maiden and her suitor; he is on bended knee, she appears to be surprised.

If you are a lover of Limoges, or miniatures, or, all things French, you will love this tiny treasure. To enter the giveaway, all you have to do is tell us what you think the suitor is saying to the maiden! The winner will be announced on Friday, December 10.

Bonne chance!

P.S. This would also make a lovely Christmas tree ornament!

Week-end Simple: Iron your table linens

2010-12-03T06:32:00.000-05:00

The Christmas holiday is approaching, and for so many people it means the weekend will be spent shopping: running from store to store, fighting for parking places, weary from trying to cross everything off the list.

Et moi? This weekend, I will iron my table linens. After Thanksgiving, I laundered my linens; now they are soft and sweet smelling, and ready to be ironed in preparation for Christmas.

I admit, it's not a very exciting thing to do over the weekend, but, I enjoy ironing. And especially this time of year, when so much energy is used for buying and accumulating and acquiring, small household tasks keep me focused on the simpler parts of the holiday, the parts that have to do with family and home.

Bon week-end!

La vache qui rit bowl

2010-12-01T06:09:00.000-05:00

I love Laughing Cow cheese, and, like the cow, I had to laugh when I saw this footed bowl at Blazing Thyme, a site that sells French housewares.

It's not for me, but, I know a few friends who would love this bowl, or any of the items at Blazing Thyme, including the La Rochere glassware, the kitchen linens, the beautiful vintage-print footed bowls. I confess that I did fall in love with this butter dish, large enough to hold a block of French butter.

I guess it's not too early to start thinking about holiday gifts and some of these pretty items on this site might just fit the bill.

Mise en place

2010-11-29T06:15:00.000-05:00

Mise en place is a basic technique employed by many cooks; some swear by it. From the French, and meaning "set in place," mise en place can make food preparation a breeze.

I've always used this technique when baking, and sometimes when cooking. But never have I appreciated it more than I do now, cooking in a tiny kitchen. With very little counter space, there isn't room for excess, especially when preparing a meal.

So when cooking, as I just did over Thanksgiving, measuring and setting out all the ingredients before beginning made preparation easy. That meant that during preparation my precious countertop space wasn't crowded with unnecessary boxes or containers. One part of the countertop was used for working, the other was used for my mise en place; when I reached for the ingredients, they were there, already set in place.

There are traditional mise en place bowls, like these cuties from Williams-Sonoma, or these from Bormioli, but any small bowls will do. The end result will be the same: tidy and oh-so-efficient food preparation.

Do you use mise en place when cooking?

Week-end Simple: Savor a small dessert

2010-11-26T18:14:00.000-05:00

No, I'm not advocating eating desserts, especially the day after Thanksgiving. But the holiday is a reminder that we don't have to overindulge in order to enjoy, n'est ce pas?

With so much emphasis on food during holiday season, it's the perfect time to practice restraint and remind ourselves that a small bite tastes just as good as half the pie.

Like our chic French inspirations, there's no need to sacrifice pleasure, just portions.

Bon week-end!

Familiarity

2010-11-24T13:27:00.000-05:00

Changes are hard, whether they're made by choice, or foisted upon us. At the moment, I'm in unfamiliar territory: new house, a new neighborhood, a different commute. Some of my belongings are gone; no space for them here. I search for the best place to put the sugar, the toothpaste, the dishtowels. In my old house, everything had its place; here, I've moved the silverware three times because I can't decide which drawer works best. Ah, changes.

Then yesterday, I was preparing a post about the French and the utility of kitchen scissors. I went to get my own kitchen shears, and when I spied them in the drawer, it was like seeing an old friend in a crowd of strangers.

These kitchen scissors have been in my family for as long as I can remember. There's nothing special about them; they're a vintage Wiss with green handles, though the paint has all but worn away. Holding them brought on a rush of familiarity, and strange comfort. I started thinking of all the hands that had held those scissors--my parents, my sister and brother, my husband, my son.

Tomorrow I am hosting Thanksgiving; in a few hours my house will be filled with familiar smells and sounds, with family and friends, and I believe my new house will begin to feel familiar.

Réentrée

2010-11-16T18:40:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow will be one month since my last post, but it feels like much longer.

My life has changed so much in the last thirty days, and I'm ready to begin settling into my new house, my old routines, and my blog.

Apologies

2010-10-17T18:41:00.000-04:00

This past week I've been preoccupied with negotiating the sale of my current house, as well as elbow deep in paint and plaster dust at my new house. And all the while feeling guilty because I've been neglecting my blog.

I'm going to take a few weeks off, until everything gets settled again, and I'm not between two houses. In the meantime, I'll be taking some photos of the restoration process of my historic 1940s row/town home so I can share them.

Emile Henry Online Factory Store

2010-10-11T17:26:00.000-04:00

For those of you who are collectors of Emile Henry (or those who would like to be), there's a post on The Kitchn about the Emile Henry online factory store.

Week-end simple: Take a walk

2010-10-09T09:39:00.000-04:00

Here in the DC area, today is sunny but the air is cool, and it's a perfect day for a walk.

Maybe it will be a walk along the canal, or the bike path that finds it way into the city. It might be a walk to Georgetown for some window shopping and a coffee at one of the cafes. Or maybe just a walk in the neighborhood to see what's going on.

Whether you have a destination, or you simply want to enjoy the autumn air and the changing colors of the leaves, treat yourself to a walk this weekend.

Bon week-end!

French baby beets

2010-10-06T07:46:00.000-04:00

The produce at the farmer's market is changing. If you're a seasonal cook, you've said goodbye to the tomatoes, the courgettes, the stone fruit, the sweet corn. What you'll find instead are the cool weather vegetables: varieties of greens, squash, brussel sprouts, and beets.

I discovered beets a few years ago; my friend Laura, a personal chef, shared her recipe for baked beets and I couldn't believe the flavor! Since then, I've experimented with my own recipes and discovered what I really like are baby beets. About the size of a radish, these petite beets yield a sweeter flavor than mature beets, and they cook much faster, which makes them ideal for weeknight meals.

Roasting baby beets in a bit of olive oil brings out their natural sweetness; add a strong herb like rosemary, and finish them off with butter is the simplest way to enjoy this root vegetable. Recipes for French baby beets usually call for the addition of balsamic vinegar, which reduces to a velvety sauce while the beets are baking. Beets can stand up to strong cheeses so you can toss them with a handful of nutty mâche and add chèvre or bleu for an entree salad. And t his recipe from Epicurious pairs roasted baby beets with haricots verts and lemon; I haven't tried it, but doesn't it sound delicious?

French Week at The Kitchn

2010-10-02T09:57:00.000-04:00

It was French Week at The Kitchn, and they celebrated with dozens of posts about everything we love about le cuisine and la cuisine.

You'll go shopping along Rue Montorgueil and tour Paule Caillat's Paris kitchen. You'll discover Caillat's three cheese soufflé, Julia's beef bourguignon, and Clotilde Dusoulier's mini financiers. And you'll learn how to make a Provençal mac and cheese, ouefs en meurette, and authentic French onion soup.

You'll find posts on Basque cooking, cooking from Alsace-Lorraine, and why the best French butter is found in Normandy. There are posts on tartes, tartiflettes, and terrines. My favorites are the posts on where to buy French-inspired kitchen linens, the French kitchen tours, and the classic Mouli Grater. And Stephanie, the post on using Le Creuset pots as kitchen art made me think of you!

Seriously, if you enjoy French kitchens and cooking, you'll love every one of the posts. They will make you want to get out your Staub Coquette and cook a cassoulet!

If you visit, I'd love to hear about your favorite posts.

Week-end Simple: Open a window

2010-10-01T20:17:00.000-04:00

This weekend, the weather will cool and for the first time in months, I will open my windows.

It has been a long summer, with the hot, humid weather persisting up until this last week of September. With the air conditioning on, the windows have been shut tight, occasionally being opened at night when the temperatures promise to be below 90 degrees.

This weekend will be perfect for throwing open the windows during the day, bringing in the crisp, fall air. J'adore the fresh air, the outside noises, and the breezes that travel through the house on a cool autumn day when all the windows are open.

So throw open a window, and enjoy the week-end!

Marinières

2010-09-29T06:50:00.001-04:00

A well-edited wardrobe means that a few pieces must serve many purposes. Classic styling, a neutral palette, and basic pieces combine in ways that seem to expand rather than limit possibilities.

A recent addition to my wardrobe is this classic French marinières in a dark navy blue. I've wanted one for a long time, and decided to get one for my back-to-school wear.

I've already worn it several times, so I know it's a keeper. It looks great with my jeans and Frye boots, and tres chic with my wide-leg black cropped pants and ballet flats, and I already have plans to wear it with pearls and a long, black, silk taffeta skirt to a friend's wedding in November.

J'adore pieces that can be both casual and formal, and can be worn in so many ways. It means fewer clothes in my closest, more money in my pocket, and wardrobe of go-to pieces that I know will always work for me.

Do you have any pieces like this in your wardrobe?

Lessons on Living with Less

2010-09-27T17:12:00.000-04:00

Living with less, simplifying, downsizing--call it what you will--is not for everyone. Let's face it, there are times in our life that demand we have a full house.

For example, children have a lot of stuff: toys, books, art, papers are a part of raising children and it's not practical to consider downsizing. Newlyweds have a lot of stuff: setting up house is an expensive endeavor and shower and wedding gifts take up a lot of space. People who work at home also need a lot of stuff: supplies, computers, fax machines, copiers are a necessary part of running a business.

But living with less is working for me. It has been liberating to unburden myself of the excess in my life. I love the sense of order and calm in my home, and knowing exactly what I have, and exactly where I can find something if I need it.

Lesson #4: Cleaning

2010-09-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

When you have your house on the market, it has to show-ready at a moment's notice. For the homeowner that means daily cleaning and upkeep: clothes are hung up, shower and sink are wiped down, and every surface is dust free.

It took me a few days to establish a daily cleaning routine, but by the end of the first week I had it down. I'm an early riser, so every morning I take fifteen minutes to wipe off, pick up, and put away. This means that I walk out the door leaving a house that is clean and ready for anyone who walks through the door.

And that includes me.

Yes, an unexpected benefit to this daily routine is that I get to enjoy it too! It is a pleasure to come home at the end of the day to a home that is clean and tidy--what a treat. I used to save cleaning house for the weekend, but now a few minutes each morning actually saves me time; the weekends aren't spent cleaning house, or feeling guilty because I'm not.

Lesson #3: Decorating

2010-09-25T16:27:00.000-04:00

Selling a house today is not the same as selling a house twenty years ago. It used to be, if you were putting your house on the market, you might do a bit of fix-up, maybe some painting, and put the "FOR SALE" sign on the lawn.

But I've watched enough HGTV to know that the presentation of the house--the staging--can have an impact on buyers. So, after weeding out all the excess, it was time to decorate, or stage my house for sale.

My realtor works with several home stagers, and I had the good fortune to work with the stager who echoed my American-Modern-Thomas-O'Brien-Paris-apartment-aesthetic. Using only my furniture and accessories, he rearranged furniture, hung mirrors and art, and placed rugs and lamps to create clean, open spaces. It was great fun, and I learned so much through the experience.

For example, I learned I like a limited palette in my home--taupey-greys, black, and white--almost identical to my wardrobe! I've also learned to LOVE mirrors (I've never even had a mirror in my bedroom) for the way they reflect light and open up a room. I have a new appreciation of how architectural features such a windows, doors, and trim become part of the decor. The result is a restful calm created by the absence--rather than the addition--of things. You can click on the photo for a better view of my living room.

The less-is-more philosophy has helped me appreciate my home in a new way, and when I move in a few weeks, I'll be applying those lessons to my new house.