A Week Deep in Paris

I just can't seem to find the words to adequately explain my first week of living in Paris. Maybe it's because it seemed to flashed by in a hot second, or maybe it is because this whole experience is quite surreal, but either way my love for Paris has grown exponentially. After living a very laid back life in various beach towns in California, this life of late nights, cafes full of quick French chatter and constant bread eating is an ideal change.

After catching a flu bug during my flights getting to Europe, my first couple of days in the city of lights were uneventful. But a mere reminder that I only have four months in this beautiful city, spurred an instant recovery, or maybe just a willingness to get out while feeling less than healthy. Paris seems to have that effect on me: every minute is a minute that I need to be out, exploring, drinking wine and seeing something historical. No time to waste being sick!

So far, Paris is giving me good reason to stay here and never look back. Montmarte, le Tour Eiffel lightshow and chocolate croissants alone, are making me forget about sunny California beaches and 70 degree Chirstmases. Not to mention that every person I have met, both native Parisiens and transplants, have been nothing but perfectly nice and welcoming. You have the flu? Let me get you some fruit and a cup of tea. You were sick? Do you need an extra blanket for your bed? Sorry family and friends, I am getting courted by a very desirable partner.

More later, but for now I am off to start my birthday week celebrations at a local pub with new friends. I really can't believe I am living this life right now. I reveling in my luck.

Bonsoir amies. Je t'aime.

Found: Vintage Treasures

The number of days until I arrive in Paris is dwindling down... rapidly. Today was the first day where it was hard to eat food due to the constant flutter of butterflies in my stomach. While my nerves are increasing, so is my excitement. This past weekend I found an amazing bay area thrift store, which allowed me to buy multiple cashmere (yes, cashmere) sweaters, a beautiful coat circa 1950, and the most needed Paris clothing article, a tan trench coat. Best of all I spent under $70 for fifteen items. The better portion of these items are being dry cleaned, but there will soon be many pictures of these treasures amongst a beautiful French scenery. Thrift Town gets two enthusiastic thumbs up from me.

My favorite find: 1930's hat. 

And after spending all of yesterday scouring booth after booth at the Alameda Vintage Flea Market with my mama, I walked away with a vintage cashmere skirt and a flapper-esce hat circa 1930. It was the best day of hunting and browsing, even though the weather felt more like fall than summer (but it made it much easier to buy much needed wintery items rather than levi cut-offs and summer dresses!). Cutest hat ever, right? I can't wait to put all of my new cold weather clothes to use while exploring many European cities. Until then, Ill be wearing some of my finds (black cashmere sweater and velvet blazer) to the Giants game tonight, considering San Francisco always has far too cold of weather. This may be the first time I am welcoming of 50 degree weather during the month of August.

XOXO

Seeking Adventure

Truth #1: I am less than adventurous. I guess my sisters got all of those genes from my parents while I got the "always cautious" genes. What can you do? Well, you can travel the world. And I think I'm ready. 

“If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.” – Katharine Hepburn

Huit jusqu'à Minuit

As my time working at A Tropical Affair concludes, I am becoming nostalgic, excited... and greedy for more lingerie! For the past two and a half years I have spent endless hours with great co-workers, trying on and spending far too much money on lacy luxuries that a college budget can afford, and learning about designers that were once foreign and now a staple.  This past weekend my co-worker and friend, Cindy, helped me solidify exactly what I needed to take home with me before my last day. On a whim I tried on a stunning Huit bra and, of course, fell in love.

It is absolutely true that the French create the most detailed, figure flattering under garments. Why I did not figure this out sooner I will never know. But I am absolutely sure that the Huit China Girl set is coming home with me next week. Please let the following photos inspire you to make you way over to A Tropical Affair and explore the best lingerie selection in Santa Barbara (But don't buy any 34cs!). 

Thank goodness I am off to the homeland of this splendid designer. Paris I will see you soon. 

Contagious Laughter

This picture brings me endless joy so I just had to share it. 

I'm related to this crazy bunch: Dad, Kate and Brooke 

 Sure seems like something was hilarious. I love this kind of uncontrollable, contagious laughter that seems to appear when I am around these silly people. Gotta love 'em. 

(Mom, I'll do a solo post just for you next time. Don't feel left out. You know I love you the most ;) )

Weekend Packing List

This summer and, of course, this fall my weekends are going to be full of short trips to visit friends, family and foreign places. Thus, I compiled a list of essentials for a weekend away, whether it is as close as the next town over or far across the globe.

A small suitcase that ensures I don't overpack

(via etsy)

Black sunnies for beautiful days

(via Etsy)

A far from boring water bottle to keep hydrated

(via Dutchbydesign.com)

A small, leather pouch for coins and cards

(via Etsy)

A light weight scarf for cool planes, trains and automobiles

(via Etsy)

Gloss, fragrance, and salve all in one darling tin

(via Sephora)

Weekly Cup of Tea

photo credit: aurevoirlecielbleu.tumblr.com