Munich at Christmas

And here we are on Christams Eve. How we {read: I} got here, I'm still not sure. Here we are, nonetheless. 

Last week, I had the most beautiful and lovely few days exploring Bavaria and Munich with a dear, German friend. I was so happy to finally see a little bit of her gorgeous country and she was so excited to finally be able to share part of it with me after 10 years of hearing about it from her!

You all, let me tell you, Germany does Christmas right. 

It was giddy wandering around the beautiful streets and Christmas markets set up in nearly every square in the city. The twinkly lights, yummy gluhwein, and Christmas music playing all over Munich made me feel like it was really Christmas. It was giving the North Pole a run for it's money. These pictures don't do the atmosphere and beauty an ounce of justice, but here the are. Perhaps they will spread a little Christmas cheer to you.

Living far away from loved ones and family during the holiday season can be a tough, emotional, tear filled {insert another depressing adjective} time. Although these feelings have threatened to creep in during hard days at work and coming home to nothing but an empty fridge {slightly redeemed by fabulous bottles of wine I somehow manage to keep in abundant supply} in the weeks leading up to the holiday season, I've been so very lucky to have so many far-away "families" in my life that have warded away those feelings that were on the cusp of breaking through.

So, to my dear friends, far and wide, who have always made me feel like family throughout my life, whether it's been holidays spent with you or just welcoming me into your homes with open arms and making me feel like one of yours, thank you from the bottom of my heart for showing me so much love. I am continuously overwhelmed by the kindness of others, and I wish the whole world would recognize that in each other.

Although I'm lucky enough to spend this Christmas with my family, there are so many that don't get that time with their loved ones, my little brother included. Please say a little prayer or happy thought up for those who might be alone or far away during this holiday season that they know how much they are loved and missed. 

I wish you all the very merriest of Christmases. And to those of you not celebrating, all my warmest wishes during the last days of the year.

Louis Vuitton Foundation for Creation

A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to be able to attend the inauguration for the La Foundation Louis Vuitton. It was a truly amazing day discovering the architectural genius of Frank Gehry who created a unimaginably gorgeous building to serve as the home to the Foundation.

This masterpiece feels like a complete dream. Lofty but structured. Perhaps because it resembles a ship emerging from the clouds? It's whimsical but intentional in perfect balance. I think it's so incredible how minds can dream up and create such works of art.

I was so thrilled to be among the first visitors to what is sure to be a landmark of Paris.

Jetlag and a Rainy Day

I was saving these for a rainy day.

And today is that day.

A rainy day full of jet lag after a much too quick trip to NYC and NJ for the last few days.

Somehow, it's nearly eight in the evening and I'm still awake.

We will not count the minute naps I took on the train home in between stops. 

On my first trip over to Paris back in June, my brother stopped over for a few days to see the city and visit me before he rejoined the working world after a brief and much deserved hiatus. It was really so lovely to have him here with me for those few days to help me explore my new home. 

The weather wasn't cooperative the entire visit, so one rainy afternoon, we decided a covered riverboat tour of the city was just the ticket. That and a few beers followed by a bottle of wine. And good food, naturally.

Even though it was rainy and grey, I loved seeing the city from under the raindrops. It was fitting in a lot of ways. Here we were, so little and small just drifting past so many beautiful sights along with the current of the river. 

It seemed like a metaphor for my life at that moment. 

I was so small in a new city, always looking up wherever I was wandering to admire the beauty and soak in all the changes the last few months had brought. Just me trying to coast along with the current and work through the little waves that popped up here and there.

I'm a big believer that rainy days are good for the soul and seeing things from a different perspective, even when you think you've seen or know it all.

Sunday Brunch: The Park NYC

Another weekend. Another opportunity for brunching with friends.

Have I mentioned before that brunch is my favorite meal ever?

Yes, I think I have.

There is something about this lazy weekend meal, served up with some fruity cocktails and spending a few hours munching and sipping with friends that warms my heart.

Maybe it's the bubbly-induced babble about life that makes us feel like budding philosophers.

Maybe it's the fact that no one is {usually} rushing you through the meal. It's the accepted practice that this is the time to sit back, enjoy what you're eating, and take advantage of catching up with the people that busy schedules prevent you from talking to during the work week. One thing about Paris that I absolutely love is that all meals are expected to be hours long.

Brunching has turned into a generational norm in the US. And it looks like it's been taking over Europe little by little too.

In honor of my trip to NYC this week, I thought I'd share a little from my brunch at The Park last summer.

This is easily in my top 5 bunch meals to date. A big statement to make, I know, but it's true.

Take some spicy pulled pork, some sweet potato hash, perfectly poached eggs, a side of avocado and mix it all together. Y'all, this is the meal that dreams are made of. I'm certain.

Not to mention there were so many other scrumptious dishes on their menu that I'm sure are equally delicions. Not pictured: my dear friend Kimberly's mascarpone stuffed French toast. Hello, heaven.

I'm already dreaming of brunch next Sunday before I hop back over to Paris!

Bon dimanche, mes amis.