June 2010

Paris is always a good idea

While city dwellers are dreaming of relaxation and sunshine, I am lusting after hustle and bustle. While I’m quickly growing accustomed to the laid-back, beachy lifestyle of the French Riviera, I miss the sophistication of city life. I’m craving a good meal, the chance to wear heels, and an afternoon of people-watching in Jardin de [...]

June 27, 2010 Continue reading…

Sweet or sour, the challenge continues

So I admit that I’ve been slacking a bit on the Challenge of the Cornet. Two weeks, and I’ve only tasted five flavors! Unfortunately, I’ve had a bit of dessert distraction, otherwise known as my obsession with crafting the perfect clafoutis. Even so, every single flavor I tried was delicious. I want to get the [...]

June 25, 2010 Continue reading…

Practice makes perfect in the kitchen

My grandma is the cute old lady who always has cookies–for her granddaughters (obviously), for the kids next door, for the people who work at the bank. Whenever you go to her house, chocolate chip cookies and pizzelles will be there, without fail. If you’re lucky, there will be nut quiches or rolled almond cookies [...]

June 24, 2010 Continue reading…

Celebrate the start of summer with a song!

Fête de la Musique is hands-down one of my favorite holidays in France. The concept is simple: take advantage of the longest day of the year with an open-air music festival. Amateur and professional musicians are encouraged to play in the streets, while a number of concerts are also organized by cities across France. While [...]

June 22, 2010 Continue reading…

Travel isn’t always beautiful, but it’s always worth it

“Heureux qui, comme Ulysse, a fait un beau voyage“ –Joachim du Bellay Roughly translated, this means “Happy is he who, like Ulysses, has made a beautiful voyage.” Ever since stumbling across this mosaic on Castle Hill, the quote has stuck with me. While I’ve forgotten much of what I learned during Greek mythology freshman year, [...]

June 20, 2010 Continue reading…

Syrups are for cocktails, not pancakes

I’ve always had a sweet spot for syrups. Shirley Temples were my drink of choice throughout my childhood, and I had a great run with Dirty Shirleys when I started going to the bars. I also loved Italian sodas, especially with a dash of half-and-half and a lot of whipped cream. So it’s no surprise [...]

June 18, 2010 Continue reading…

Clafoutis: the perfect five-ingredient dessert

Little-known fact: I had a brief stint as an au pair in a tiny village west of Paris when I was 18. However, it only took me about two weeks to realize that I’m not cut out for the countryside or crying children. The only upside to country living? A backyard full of cherry trees [...]