Sunday, November 6, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
If I were in Paris... Friday, November 4, 2011
And it's back... my favorite round-up of things I will miss in Paris. Sigh... but I love it.
Time to head back to the Musees des Arts Decoratifs, because they always have beautifully curated and informative exhibits, like...
One that's closing after today: "Face A Face: un project de Matthew Bakkom" in the library of the museum (111, rue de Rivoli). This includes images drawn from one of the initial donations to the museum.
One on toys, "Plastique ludique: Libuse Niklova designer des jouets," which closes Sunday. Czech designer Niklova designed toys during the mid-20th century.
One on jewelry (always a favorite with me!), "Alphonse Fouquet (1828-1911) - des dessins pour des bijoux" which are Fouquet's drawings for the glorious items created by this master jeweller during the second half of the 19th century. By the way: his son Georges Fouquet's shop is on view at the Musee Carnavalet as designed by Alphonse Mucha: glorious art deco work. It is a wonderful "family" business.
And speaking if the Musee Carnavalet -- the museum of Paris history and a lovely jewel box to visit itself -- they ahve an exhibition on the the depictions of Les Halles, the great shopping market in the heart of Paris from medieval times to the present. They also have an exhibition on "Le peuple de Paris au XIXe siecle" which looks to be fascinating: views of the city's populations from beginning to end of the most important century in the city's history (or is that just me?).
Time to head back to the Musees des Arts Decoratifs, because they always have beautifully curated and informative exhibits, like...
One that's closing after today: "Face A Face: un project de Matthew Bakkom" in the library of the museum (111, rue de Rivoli). This includes images drawn from one of the initial donations to the museum.
One on toys, "Plastique ludique: Libuse Niklova designer des jouets," which closes Sunday. Czech designer Niklova designed toys during the mid-20th century.
One on jewelry (always a favorite with me!), "Alphonse Fouquet (1828-1911) - des dessins pour des bijoux" which are Fouquet's drawings for the glorious items created by this master jeweller during the second half of the 19th century. By the way: his son Georges Fouquet's shop is on view at the Musee Carnavalet as designed by Alphonse Mucha: glorious art deco work. It is a wonderful "family" business.
And speaking if the Musee Carnavalet -- the museum of Paris history and a lovely jewel box to visit itself -- they ahve an exhibition on the the depictions of Les Halles, the great shopping market in the heart of Paris from medieval times to the present. They also have an exhibition on "Le peuple de Paris au XIXe siecle" which looks to be fascinating: views of the city's populations from beginning to end of the most important century in the city's history (or is that just me?).
If it's Friday it must be...
This is one of those "good news, bad news" entries.
Good news, first: I bought myself four Sprinkles cupcakes on Tuesday to celebrate a big event: orange, pumpkin, dark chocolate, and -- of course! -- red velvet. That's not the good news -- this is: after several months of working on a "no (less) sugar" eating plan, I DIDN'T REALLY WANT THE CUPCAKES!
Huh? (the tiny part of me that still craves sugar is trying to formulate a protest, but in her weakened state gives up)
That's right. Not only did I not dive into them once I got them home, I stuck them in the fridge and had one with dinner (as dessert) on Tuesday. Meh. Okay, it was the orange, but still. Again, one on Wednesday for dinner... didn't finish it. Still meh. Looked at box and thought, I could eat another one. Didn't. Yesterday... ate the red velvet, didn't enjoy it nearly as much as usual (happy meh!) and dumped the last one plus box.
This is amazing and super-great news for me.
Bad news, now: Apparently, I don't teach at a university but at a middle school. Sigh. Yesterday's class was like watching paint dry: students unprepared, passing notes, slumping into naps, and staring at me while drool tracked down their chins... I exaggerate only a tiny bit. And when we started to discuss the play assigned for the day and none of them had read it (very clear, very quickly)... class was over.
Good news: My night class is full of eager, committed writers. They are indeed struggling with their latest challenge, but taking big risks. I love teaching them!
Bad news: My bank froze my debit card because I ordered something from Amazon.Fr -- except that they only froze two of the three books I ordered... so they allowed one charge (one the same order, from the same card) and cancelled the other two... and froze my assets. All to "protect me" -- but they didn't want credit for that, I guess, because they didn't tell me about their white knight actions. Instead I found out last night trying to buy groceries with said debit card. Oops!
Good news, along the lines of the top story here: Frozen dinners stink. Last night I bought myself some frozen entrees for dinner (with credit card!) -- 9:30 after my class and no dinner yet, nothing in the fridge -- and microwaved them. Perfectly good manufactuers, organic stuff -- it all tasted like bad truckstop hash. Ugh. The good news, then, is that after a year of cooking at home for myself and not buying processed, frozen, or otherwise pre-crafted food, I can distinctly tell the difference between my delicious meals -- or even a fresh salad -- and the chemical/additive/processed junk in the frozen aisle. Blindfolded, no doubt.
So I guess "good news" wins. let the Happy Friday Dance commence!
 |
| Temptation or Reward? |
Good news, first: I bought myself four Sprinkles cupcakes on Tuesday to celebrate a big event: orange, pumpkin, dark chocolate, and -- of course! -- red velvet. That's not the good news -- this is: after several months of working on a "no (less) sugar" eating plan, I DIDN'T REALLY WANT THE CUPCAKES!
Huh? (the tiny part of me that still craves sugar is trying to formulate a protest, but in her weakened state gives up)
That's right. Not only did I not dive into them once I got them home, I stuck them in the fridge and had one with dinner (as dessert) on Tuesday. Meh. Okay, it was the orange, but still. Again, one on Wednesday for dinner... didn't finish it. Still meh. Looked at box and thought, I could eat another one. Didn't. Yesterday... ate the red velvet, didn't enjoy it nearly as much as usual (happy meh!) and dumped the last one plus box.
This is amazing and super-great news for me.
 |
| It's the girl behind him... that's the expression! |
Bad news, now: Apparently, I don't teach at a university but at a middle school. Sigh. Yesterday's class was like watching paint dry: students unprepared, passing notes, slumping into naps, and staring at me while drool tracked down their chins... I exaggerate only a tiny bit. And when we started to discuss the play assigned for the day and none of them had read it (very clear, very quickly)... class was over.
Good news: My night class is full of eager, committed writers. They are indeed struggling with their latest challenge, but taking big risks. I love teaching them!
 |
| Picture my debit card thus... |
Bad news: My bank froze my debit card because I ordered something from Amazon.Fr -- except that they only froze two of the three books I ordered... so they allowed one charge (one the same order, from the same card) and cancelled the other two... and froze my assets. All to "protect me" -- but they didn't want credit for that, I guess, because they didn't tell me about their white knight actions. Instead I found out last night trying to buy groceries with said debit card. Oops!
 |
| Eat the box: my advice! |
Good news, along the lines of the top story here: Frozen dinners stink. Last night I bought myself some frozen entrees for dinner (with credit card!) -- 9:30 after my class and no dinner yet, nothing in the fridge -- and microwaved them. Perfectly good manufactuers, organic stuff -- it all tasted like bad truckstop hash. Ugh. The good news, then, is that after a year of cooking at home for myself and not buying processed, frozen, or otherwise pre-crafted food, I can distinctly tell the difference between my delicious meals -- or even a fresh salad -- and the chemical/additive/processed junk in the frozen aisle. Blindfolded, no doubt.
So I guess "good news" wins. let the Happy Friday Dance commence!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Thursday -- Express Checkout Experiment
Autumn version, 11.3.
I have not been particularly successful at organizing my closet this fall. I am unsure why -- because autumn is my favorite season, after all, all sweaters and suede jackets and scarves -- but apparently something is standing in the way of my choosing 15 favorite pieces to mix and match throughout the weeks.
Here are the basics:
But I think I need a little inspiration, and a little red, purple, and aqua (my other favorite jewel colors) to give me a much needed boost.
(I am also not counting the black/gray/white t-shirts and tanks I wear as layers under the sweaters, or the jackets, like my favorite caramel suede jacket that comes out fo the closet now to be worn all winter long, in the Big D.)
I have not been particularly successful at organizing my closet this fall. I am unsure why -- because autumn is my favorite season, after all, all sweaters and suede jackets and scarves -- but apparently something is standing in the way of my choosing 15 favorite pieces to mix and match throughout the weeks.
Here are the basics:
- white man-style shirt (actually, shirts, as I have a loose fit and a close fitting version)
- blue man-style shirt
- blue striped man-style shirt
- black turtleneck (lightweight; the cashmere has to wait!)
- black v-neck sweater
- blue cashmere boyfriend cardigan
- jeans
- black trousers
- black ankle-length trousers
- black pencil skirt
- black a-line flip skirt
- brown a-line flip skirt
- black-and-white polka dot dress
- gray sheath dress and coat
- black sweater coat
But I think I need a little inspiration, and a little red, purple, and aqua (my other favorite jewel colors) to give me a much needed boost.
(I am also not counting the black/gray/white t-shirts and tanks I wear as layers under the sweaters, or the jackets, like my favorite caramel suede jacket that comes out fo the closet now to be worn all winter long, in the Big D.)
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Etsy shout-out: Sky Koltun
Last month I ordered some jewelry from Etsy from Sky Koltun, a native New Yorker making original pieces.
I bought her Philosophy bracelet, in the petite size (meaning it doesn't rach quite so far up my arm as the "regular" size).
Her Joan of Arc bracelet, in all silver (it also comes in a silver/copper/gold style as well).
Her labradorite/silver ring.
Each of these was as beautiful in person as in her photographs, and make quite a statement. I love them. They are simple, stunning pieces that work with my classic/casual style: they go as well with jeans as with a sheath dress and coat.
I don't buy a lot of jewelry, although I've accumulated a fair amount over time. I don't feel comfortable with the oversized jewelry advertised for women my age, or flashy pieces made without great technical skill as cheaply reproduced pieces (and therefore found everywhere, worn by everyone...). I also don't buy "statement" pieces -- which I consider these three to be -- usually, because that makes me uncomfortable.
However! All these pieces are great investments for me, because they will last (well-made!) and are simply elegant. Each piece will improve the outfit I match it to, but not overwhelm the clothes.
And I like them!
I couldn't ask for more.
I bought her Philosophy bracelet, in the petite size (meaning it doesn't rach quite so far up my arm as the "regular" size).
 |
| Philosophy bracelet (her picture) |
Her Joan of Arc bracelet, in all silver (it also comes in a silver/copper/gold style as well).
 |
| Joan of Arc bracelet (her picture) |
Her labradorite/silver ring.
 |
| Labradorite ring (her picture!) |
Each of these was as beautiful in person as in her photographs, and make quite a statement. I love them. They are simple, stunning pieces that work with my classic/casual style: they go as well with jeans as with a sheath dress and coat.
I don't buy a lot of jewelry, although I've accumulated a fair amount over time. I don't feel comfortable with the oversized jewelry advertised for women my age, or flashy pieces made without great technical skill as cheaply reproduced pieces (and therefore found everywhere, worn by everyone...). I also don't buy "statement" pieces -- which I consider these three to be -- usually, because that makes me uncomfortable.
However! All these pieces are great investments for me, because they will last (well-made!) and are simply elegant. Each piece will improve the outfit I match it to, but not overwhelm the clothes.
And I like them!
I couldn't ask for more.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
More "Oxford" news
I just heard from one of the several conferences I applied to for 2012. This particular one is at University of Exeter in early June -- my proposal was accepted, contingent on my being able to attend. I got the okay from my Oxford program head, as long as I am not missing on the Monday. Now (fingers crossed) hoping that panel gets scheduled midday Tuesday or Wednesday, which will put me on the British rail system for a six-hour round trip but worth it all the way...
This is an international conference that sounds fascinating--not that I'll experience much of it! but the same group that was at St. Andrew's a few years ago. Delightful and itneresting group of French scholars.
BTW: I also heard from a different conference, this one American in L.A., and they turned me down. Too many proposals, too few spaces. Tant pis!
This is an international conference that sounds fascinating--not that I'll experience much of it! but the same group that was at St. Andrew's a few years ago. Delightful and itneresting group of French scholars.
BTW: I also heard from a different conference, this one American in L.A., and they turned me down. Too many proposals, too few spaces. Tant pis!
Planning for Paris
Next summer I'll be in Paris before teaching at Oxford, again.
What will I be doing? Of course, going to Tolbiac and researching -- happily! Visiting museums and raiding their bookstores, as well as finding at least one, new museum. Walking the Seine and riding the Metro and sitting in cafes enjoying the sights.
What else will I be doing? I'll be stocking up on my favorite items that I cannot get outside of Paris.
Like:
Repettos. The classic ballet flats, on sale in July.
In 2010, I bought classic flats in a textured black. I can't wait to see what's available in June 2012, but I plan to buy two pairs.
Mixa lip balm. Wonderful stuff, in a drugstore lip balm.
Great scent, great texture, buttery soft balm.
Monoprix cashmere. Yes, good quality cashmere in Target-level clothing.
I have two gorgeous v-neck cashmere sweaters -- just like this! -- from Monoprix. I wear them once weekly during winter, and they have yet to pill, they hold their color, and I love them.
Pharmacy and Monoprix brands of skin care: do not knock it!
Avene, Nuxe, and other fantastic stuff I can stock up on, trying new products -- again, once the sales start everything is disounted, too.
Lush Happy Hippy. In the good formulation... not the US version.
Happy shampoo/bodywash combo with the brilliant scent of fresh-squeezed grapefruit!
Tea. Specifically, Mariage Freres Tea.
I spend at least a couple of hours in one of their shops deciding which of the many black, white, green, or red teas I want to take home.
Ahhhh, happy pre-summer thoughts.
What will I be doing? Of course, going to Tolbiac and researching -- happily! Visiting museums and raiding their bookstores, as well as finding at least one, new museum. Walking the Seine and riding the Metro and sitting in cafes enjoying the sights.
What else will I be doing? I'll be stocking up on my favorite items that I cannot get outside of Paris.
Like:
Repettos. The classic ballet flats, on sale in July.
In 2010, I bought classic flats in a textured black. I can't wait to see what's available in June 2012, but I plan to buy two pairs.
Mixa lip balm. Wonderful stuff, in a drugstore lip balm.
Great scent, great texture, buttery soft balm.
Monoprix cashmere. Yes, good quality cashmere in Target-level clothing.
 |
| Good enough for Ines and me! |
I have two gorgeous v-neck cashmere sweaters -- just like this! -- from Monoprix. I wear them once weekly during winter, and they have yet to pill, they hold their color, and I love them.
Pharmacy and Monoprix brands of skin care: do not knock it!
Avene, Nuxe, and other fantastic stuff I can stock up on, trying new products -- again, once the sales start everything is disounted, too.
Lush Happy Hippy. In the good formulation... not the US version.
Happy shampoo/bodywash combo with the brilliant scent of fresh-squeezed grapefruit!
Tea. Specifically, Mariage Freres Tea.
I spend at least a couple of hours in one of their shops deciding which of the many black, white, green, or red teas I want to take home.
Ahhhh, happy pre-summer thoughts.
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