winter neutrals

I love the gentle, warm shades of these beige, off-white, and grey sweaters. Antidote to all the black I see outside, the color favored by many French people during the already-depressing winter.

Clémentines Corses

Clementines from Corsica.

At about 2.95€ per kilo, they are more expensive than Spanish ones, which are more widely available at the markets in and around Lyon. But "these are soooo much better, Mom!", according to my son. I happen to agree with him, so they are the only ones I buy.

We go through 6 to 7 kilos a week, mostly consumed by our soon-to-be 10 year-old Clementine connoisseur. I have several during the week, and occasional two or three find their way into vin chaud.

beginning

The year 2011 was a difficult one for me, on many different levels. But it was also a year of personal growth, with moments filled with appreciation and gratitude. I'm not sure whether everything happens for a reason, but I know I can learn something from everything that happens, and take that with me.

If things move along as expected (warning: sometimes they don't), we will be wrapping up our stint in France and heading back to the U.S. six months from now. It's a beginning of another chapter! There's a lot to think about and prepare for, but when I do, I get all tingly with anticipation.

So here's to the new year, a fresh new beginning. I feel blessed to be here, looking directly forward. I will take my steps, one at a time, with my head held high.