Giving Thanks

Bonjour,

On this day, I pause to give thanks for so many blessings...family, friends, my fur babies, health, enough creature comforts, a loving God...life in a country that allows me the freedom to share my thoughts.

May you enjoy this day with a grateful heart...

...and a full tummy.

Adieu,

Shopping Handmade

Bonjour,

Alas, the Christmas season is upon us, like it or not.  It seems that every year, it is extended...that is, it comes sooner rather than later.  Personally, I prefer to enjoy my holidays one at a time and in their proper order.

Bah, humbug!

Although it is often advantageous to shop early, I really dislike seeing Christmas advertising begin as early as pre-Halloween.  Of course, those doing this form of advertising are usually the big retailers trying to outdo one another for our business.   I do love a good bargain, but aside from toys, I seldom purchase gifts from such retailers.

When it comes to shopping for Christmas gifts, I have always preferred searching for things the recipients may not necessarily purchase for themselves, more on the line of a treat rather than a necessity.  I tend to look for special items from small local shops or area festivals or craft fairs.  Of course, now such shopping may be done online via Etsy, which provides a plethora of artisans selling unique and original handcrafted items.  Somehow gifting feels more personal when the item chosen is handmade.

Please consider shopping handmade this Christmas.  Not only will you be supporting the individual artisans themselves, but I believe you and your gifts' recipients will be equally rewarded.  Do you usually purchase handmade items for Christmas giving?  Please share your thoughts below or via the link above. Until next time...

Adieu,

Qu'il Neige (Let it Snow)

Bonjour,

Well, the weather outside is frightful, so I say,

"Let it snow,"

"Let it snow,"

"Let it snow."

Until next time, wishing you warmth.

Adieu,

Santé

Santé

(Cheers)

Bonjour,

Today's French word is often welcomed at the end of the workday.  What could be better than to relax after a productive day by sharing a nice bottle of wine...perhaps a French Cotes de Gascogne...with your favorite companion, as you hash over the day and toast its passing. 

On those days when I feel like a nice red wine is in order, I often pick Dreaming Tree Crush.  All I can say about it is "Yum!"  An added bonus to the bottle's delicious content is the cork with which it is sealed.  One of the owners of the winery is Dave Matthews, the singer/songwriter, hence its name, Dreaming Tree, which is the title of one of Dave's songs.  The prized cork (at least, for me) is imprinted with the beginning lyrics of the song.

In my imagination, these words evoke ethereal images.

I have always saved these particular corks and lately have incorporated them into my jewelry design. Somehow their pairing with crystals seems appropriate to me. 

Although this item of jewelry may not be considered anything but fun and casual, it may just inspire one to dream.  It may be found in my shop, FrenchGraceDeux, above or here.

Is there a special way you choose to unwind at the end of a busy day?  I'd love to know. Please share your thoughts below or comment via the link above.

Until next time, I wish you many opportunities to dream.  Santé.

Adieu,