Romantic French Country

Au Revoir Chéris

2010-01-31T23:44:00.000-08:00

I've explained on my other blog the lack of postings. So I won't go into it here on this one.

I truly wish I was on that ship in the picture instead of where I am in my life.

I realized I had not mentioned anything on this blog. It is hard, but I feel the need to do it.

I will not remove this blog, for I know I will return. I don't know exactly how long or when exact.

But if anyone knows of a job in the SF Bay area, keep me in mind.

Like I said, I will be back but not sure when.

Please do not forget me, I have not forgotten you all for coming by and saying hello from time to time.

Bonne année à tous ceux qui visitent.

2009-12-26T21:53:00.000-08:00

Je vous souhaitant à tous les ans sécurité et au chaud Nouveau.
Mai vos ennuis être peu nombreuses, et votre amour pour longtemps.
Se souvenir de ceux qui ne sont pas avec nous, et mai, ils apportent un sourire sur votre visage quand vous pensez à eux.
Je lève un verre de champagne à vous tous.

I am wishing you all a safe and warm New Years. May your troubles be few, and your love be long. Remember those that are not with us, and may they bring a smile on your faces when you think of them. I raise a glass of Champagne to you all.

Christmas In France

2009-12-12T17:22:00.000-08:00

I must admit it's been awhile since I last posted anything on my blogs. I was a bit stumped on just how to get these pictures on here. But I did.

If you visit my other blog Many Fond Memories the story there tells you why I haven't posted for awhile.

Just wanted to leave everyone with a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

I Love Crosses !!

2009-10-31T17:02:00.000-07:00

Crosses are a favorite of mine. I have them all over the house. The more the merrier.

As you can see in the Blog header, I like religious things. I have statues, crosses, holy water fountains etc....

They have their own beauty.

I know I've been away for awhile, but I will try to post a little more. But it won't be everyday. It's just too time consuming.

May Day in France Is Their Labour Day

2009-09-04T15:53:00.001-07:00

Dog Rose Flower

The dog rose flower is a type of plant typically presented to loved ones in France on May Day.

Trade unions and other organizations organize parades and demonstrations to campaign for workers rights on May 1. People may also use these events to campaign for human rights in general, to demonstrate against racism or highlight current social issues.

May 1 is a public holiday. Post offices, banks, stores and other businesses are closed. Outside of tourist areas, restaurants and cafes may be closed. However, some stores in Paris, as well as at airports and railway stations and along major highways, may be open. Public transport service schedules vary depending on where one lives and intends to travel. Parades and demonstrations may cause disruption to traffic in the centers of large cities, particularly Paris.

We celebrate on the first Monday, of Sept. and France on May 1st.

French After School Snack

2009-08-14T13:58:00.001-07:00

A gouter is the snack that all children in France have at 4pm. Very popular is a chunk of baguette with a bar of chocolate in the middle! Believe it or not this is a very popular afternoon snack among French children. If that seems excessive, get hold of a jar of Nutella - chocolate spread - as a good alternative. Every single person in France is familiar with Nutella.

French Churches

2009-07-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

Churches of France, from city churches to countryside, to nearer my God to thee on a hilltop. Yikes that's a hike to go to church, but worth it I am sure to go.

The beauty of them. They were duplicated here in the states as well. Mostly in Gothic architecture. But nothing beats a French Cathedral.

Beauty In Everything

2009-07-06T14:46:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Flickr

These have their own beauty. I admire a person with such an eye, to obtain these photo's.

Hope your 4th was fun and safe.....

Happy Independence Day To All !

2009-07-03T12:44:00.001-07:00

Heureux le jour de l'indépendance à tous les.

Happy Independence Day to all.

Be safe with your firecrackers and BBQ's. Don't drink and drive.

Floors And Tiles Done The French Way

2009-06-23T20:43:00.000-07:00

When it comes to beauty, the French do it very well.

The bathroom is so pretty. The choice of wood flooring is something we do not think of having done here. Whether it be expensive or not. I rather have my floors done this way.

Enjoy !

Dog's Of France

2009-06-13T20:56:00.001-07:00

Poodle

Great Pryeness

French Bull Dog

Brittany

Basque Shepard Dog

Barbet

All these beautiful dogs originate from France. If you're a lover of dogs as I as, they are all wonderful.

I am partial to the Poodle, I have two of my own. A teacup and a toy. If I had room for more I'd have more.

Street Signs Of Paris

2009-05-30T20:23:00.001-07:00

The street signs of Paris. Why are they so much more attractive ?

If you go to the Paris Flea Markets you can purchase ones that have been taken down and replaced. Paris is broken down in quarters, some more expensive to live more than others.

I've seen old signs go for over $100.00.

The Artful French Kitchen

2009-05-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

The wonderful designs of these stoves takes your breath away. These are French in design. And would add a certain panache to any kitchen if you have the kitchen and the money to get one of these gems. They cost around $20.000.00. For that money you better love to cook and cook often to make it worth getting.

I know what you saying why is she teasing us with these, I just think their art, if a stove could be art.

Carousel's Of France

2009-05-07T12:29:00.000-07:00

The carousel originated in Europe, but reached its greatest fame in America in the 1900's. The first carousels featured gondolas, carts, menagerie animals, and horses. The French developed many variations of the carousel. In one variation, the riders tried to spear gold rings with lances while the carousel rotated at full speed. This undoubtedly led to the phrase, "catching the brass ring" on later carousels.

In the mid 16th century, grand tournaments were held in France. Saddle makers, tailors, jewelers, and wig makers created extravagant costumes for both horse and rider for these occasions. Inspiration for later carousel carvers apparently originated from these events.

During the late 1800's, many skilled European carvers immigrated to the United States to produce carousels. The carvings of these immigrants were a great improvement over the first efforts of unskilled carvers. Usually the side of the carousel horse facing the audience, the "Romance" side, was adorned with carved decorations, while the inner side received little attention. The golden age of carousels only lasted 25 years, but still brings back wonderful childhood memories today.

Gilded French Frames

2009-04-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

Beautiful gilded frames either for a picture or mirror, catch my eye every time. I have them all over the house. I am drawn to them everywhere I go. When I see one in a thrift shop, I don't care about anything else at the time, just zero in and go in for the kill.

I only wish I had more wall space........

Beautiful Things I've Seen

2009-04-21T00:05:00.000-07:00

I tired to find French Inspired things in my journey this weekend. These were just a few that I found. So many of us love the French things, because they are a thing of beauty.

What do you have in your home that is French Inspired ?

Luster Francais

2009-04-14T10:30:00.000-07:00

French Chandeliers, just don't come with all the crystals that we envision when the think of Chandeliers.

They come in all forms. These are some examples of them. Mostly used in rural homes these chandeliers have stood the test of time. There's a story with these examples, I wish I knew what those were.

But of course we still have a love affair with the crystal ones.

Happy Easter To All

2009-04-11T22:55:00.000-07:00

Joyeuses Pâques à tous

Happy Easter to all.

Hope you all have a fun and wonderful Easter.

Cast Your Eye's Upon Beauty

2009-03-31T01:05:00.000-07:00

I found this site quite by accident. And I couldn't leave it without mentioning it or showing you what beautiful things they have. Their not all prefect which is what I like the most about old things that were used and functional for the people that previously owned them.

So, go take a look for yourselves. Lantiques .

Wine Growing In France

2009-03-20T12:34:00.001-07:00

There are so many regions for growing wine in France. Depending on the type of grape you grow. There are some grapes that grow better in mild weather, some in warmer regions, and others in cool. The soil is different in every region as well. Hillside to flat depends as well. And that goes for Champagne too. Here in the US, we can't call what we make Champagne, it's sparking wine. France is the country it originated from so they have the rights to the name based on the region Champagne.

There are so many family owned winery's and they have been passed from generation to generation.

If your a wine lover, you should go for wines of France.

Zinc Is The Word

2009-03-10T01:15:00.000-07:00

Zinc is more commonly used in Europe as a reference in color and metal. You rarely hear it used in the States.

These are very common sites to see. Little baking tins used for candles and planters in zinc. Or cute baskets for your cutlery or even clothes pins.

But if you want to call it Grey, that's fine too. Either way it's a universal color with universal uses.

Foods Of France

2009-02-27T22:51:00.001-08:00

What do you think of, when thinking of french food ?

A wonderful dish with rich butter sauce that just melts in your mouth. Or lovely cheeses that taste like no other. Then there are croissants, you can not go wrong with this for breakfast with a coffee on the go.

And then there is escargot, with butter and herbs Yummm. If you have never had escargot your missing out, it's delish.....

Vintage French Cars

2009-02-16T20:45:00.000-08:00

When I think of French Cars these are the ones that come to mind. A Renault, and Citroen, and what they call "The Duck". The image I get in my head is them all over Paris in crazy traffic.

I would feel very vulnerable in the one they call The Duck.

P.S. I will be out of town until next week. I will not post until then. Stay tune for pictures of my trip.

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-13T18:31:00.001-08:00

A tous les amoureux, jour de Valentines heureux.

Translation: To all the lovers, Happy Valentines Day.

Valentine's Day In The City Of Love

2009-02-07T12:39:00.001-08:00

Champagne and sweet Chocolates in the City of Love. How more romantic can you get !

Ah, mon Paris doux comment je t'aime ainsi.

For Sale In France

2009-02-01T11:08:00.001-08:00

For Sale in Limousin, France. For 325.500 Euros this you can call home.

Can't you see yourself walking by the creek going through your property, or sitting outside having breakfast or lunch. I know I could.

And what a beautiful view you would have.

I love the look of the properties in France, this would be a dream come true.

Vintage French Crowns

2009-01-24T22:22:00.001-08:00

Well now I ask you, why are these so hard to find and cost soooo much for reproduction crowns. I have seen these go for as much as $450.00 on Ebay. I too have seen them on certain sites as well and either I am naive or something, but I just don't get it. I have never seen these elsewhere such as antique stores.

So I ask you, what makes these reproduction crowns EXPENSIVE !!!!!!!! ?

French Chintz

2009-01-18T12:59:00.001-08:00

This s a new favorite of mine, French Chintz, by Mikasa. It's simple yet beautiful. I may have to start collecting this.

French Fashions From 1940's

2009-01-09T14:08:00.000-08:00

I love this era of fashion. This era to me was the hight of style for women. The tailoring of the men and women were form fitting and flattering.

I have pictures of my mother in similar fashions during war time. I love the 1940's movie fashion as well.

Beautiful French Art

2009-01-04T12:03:00.001-08:00

From Inges Turkesh, bath to Renoir these are beautiful examples for French Artist at their best.

Eiffel Tower at New Years

2008-12-27T11:02:00.000-08:00

Attendre avec intérêt la nouvelle année.

Looking forward to the New Year.

Winter In France

2008-12-12T12:00:00.000-08:00

Winter in France, from the Alps to the Eiffel Tower, to the country. It's Beautiful there.

Christmas In Paris

2008-12-02T10:54:00.001-08:00

Isn't it beautiful, a Christmas in Paris. The Shops, Restaurants, and Hotels even Notre Dame.

It looks magical.............

French Architecture

2008-11-18T14:58:00.001-08:00

The Baroque Palace of Versailles in France began as a simple stone and brick home designed by Philibert Le Roy in 1624. In 1669, architect Louis Le Vau began a detailed renovation and expansion.

How Gothic Architecture Began
Gothic architecture began mainly in France where builders began to adapt the earlier Romanesque style. Builders were also influenced by the pointed arches and elaborate stonework of Moorish architecture in Spain. One of the earliest Gothic buildings was the ambulatory of the abbey of St. Denis in France, built between 1140 and 1144.
Originally, Gothic architecture was known as the French Style. During the Renaissance, after the French Style had fallen out of fashion, artisans mocked it. They coined the word Gothic to suggest that French Style buildings were the crude work of German (Goth) barbarians. Although the label wasn't accurate, the name Gothic remained.

Come Shop In Paris

2008-11-09T00:12:00.000-08:00

A Paris indoor flea market is like stepping inside of a museum. I would spend hours in this place. Clocks being a weakness of mine, I would want to hear them chime.

And look at the globes aren't they wonderful, I love the old worn appearance to them.

The frames on the pictures, the chandeliers are all so wonderful.

Someday my dream will come true..........

French Army

2008-10-30T12:23:00.001-07:00

The days of war were played out by children with life like soldiers, in their living rooms and playrooms.

These are some very rare french soldiers that children played with, probably very well off children that had the very best. The last picture is of a band.

Some of these go for as much as $5000.00 dollars a set.

As a child I remember having war sets that depicted the army and we would play for hours our little war games. You can not find them as easily as we did in the 60's.

Beautiful French Crystal

2008-10-26T12:33:00.001-07:00

I love beautiful French Crystal. It looks so pretty on the table.

Ooooo laaaa laaaa

2008-10-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

Fine French Louis XV Style marble fireplace surround 19th century.
French, Louis XV-Louis XVI Transition period, tall-case clock ("horloge de parquet") 18th century

George IV period, giltwood and upholstered confidante Circa 1825

Halloween

2008-10-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't mind Halloween if I had this view.......

A Favorite Painting

2008-10-15T00:27:00.001-07:00

A favorite piece of French Art, by Pierre-Auguste

Mercury Glass

2008-10-11T13:04:00.000-07:00

Mercury glass comes in different shapes and colors.

From beautiful silver to blue and red, purples and lavenders etc........

These are just a few examples of what you'll find.

Gardens Of France

2008-10-08T23:00:00.000-07:00

The first picture is in the 17th Century in the gardens of Versaille. And the last picture is also the current gardens of Versaille. What a striking difference.

All of these gardens are beautiful in the own. I would not want to take care of them.

French Tea Parlor

2008-10-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

I would love to take tea in either of these rooms. For coffee lovers it would be suitable as well.

Big rooms like these are a dream come true for me. I must have lived before in a home such as these.

French Dining

2008-10-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Whether it be a small dinner for two or family dining, or a large gathering, these dining rooms are practical and quaint. Don't you just love the second dining room it is classy and has great potential.

Have A Seat and Take A Load Off

2008-09-29T19:51:00.001-07:00

I think these first two chairs would be comfortable to sit in, I would even keep the upholstery the same, circa 1950.

I love the backs of the second chairs, it's different than what you would first think of to recover.

And these ladder chairs, circa 1900 are chairs I've been looking out for these as well.

And look at these head and foot boards aren't they wonderful ? You would have to have a big room to put these in I can just imagine a room with these it would be beautiful.

French Furniture

2008-09-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

18th c. French Armoire with Original Carvings.

Caen, France, circa 1790
19th c. Directoire Chair with Caryatid Arms,
Casters and Loose Down Cushion, Walnut

1810

Dream and Little Dream of France

2008-09-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

Again I must share. Can you see yourself walking over this bridge to your garden. It is over another walkway and it just a beautiful and awesome place.

I love the big windows in this living space, although I would not have this type of furniture, it's too modern.

And again a wonderful kitchen with the built-in Barbecue.

Till Next Time !!!!

French Holiday

2008-09-20T01:04:00.001-07:00

Have a wonderful french holiday at, Belle Dune Holiday Village, in the North of France.

This looks so relaxing and wonderful. Have a holiday like the french......

Simple and Functional French

2008-09-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

With every picture I post I grow fonder of the French and their simple display of decor.

Do you see that baby bassinet ? It is so simple and yet so pretty.

If I were to be able to design a home for myself I would love to be able to implement some of these elements into the design, such as the sink, minus the plastic drawers.

Look at the Attic isn't it marvelous ?

Thank you for stopping by my new blog. I have another one, that you can click on at the top of this blog.

Paris Flea Market

2008-09-17T12:10:00.003-07:00

Paris Flea Market. A wonderful online store with so many wonderful things. I just love looking through the pages of wonderful French inspired things to choose from.

Manor of France

2008-09-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Can you see yourself cooking in this kitchen ?

Thanksgiving or Christmas. At least I'd have more room in this kitchen than in my own small kitchen.

I have a love of large fireplaces or cooking area's in a kitchen. The walk-in ones are my weakness and no one does it better then the French and English.

The lovely beds to sleep in after a big Holiday dinner. Aren't they beautiful ? The carvings on the bed and the high headboards.

And last but not least the walk-way to the Manor. I would love this walk in the Fall.

Oh, be still my heart.......

French Estates

2008-09-14T17:25:00.001-07:00

This is an actual Estate for Sale in France.

Look at this kitchen I just love the look of it. So simple, roomy and I can see myself sitting around the table with the fire going and loving every moment.

The colors on the wall, the plates hung, and the windows where you could stare out of and dream.

The entryway from the front door leading up the stairs. I wonder what the bedrooms look like.

And the sitting room. I could get wrapped up in the beautiful estate in the Duex Serves, 2 hours out of Paris.

New Blog

2008-09-14T13:21:00.000-07:00

I am testing my ability to have a second blog. I will be doing it a little different from my other blog "Many Fond Memories".

I have a Love of French Country and English Country. So will see where this takes me.

Ciao

Glenda