I’m telling you. This is a big deal. It’s been so long since the two of us have gotten up on a Saturday morning, run our errands early and caught the early showing of a movie.
It was epic. We hadn’t gone to see a movie in ….forever!!
Oh yeah. We do movies the older people way. And we go to the earliest possible show. Usually around 11 ish. Why? You ask. Well, for one thing, it’s less expensive and we get not only the senior discount, but the matinee showings are cheaper so it’s a double discount.
Another thing is that the movie is never crowded. I can’t stand a crowded movie.
I dunno who this Shale guy is, but this is how Bonaparte and I like our movie viewing–in an empty theatre! Whoever he is, Shale is one smart dude!
And it’s because when we do end up in a crowded movie, we usually end up sitting in a row where viewers hadn’t eaten in a week and decide that this movie is where they will consume every candy, every buttery, salted, greasy kernel of popcorn, in the largest bucket they can find, every nacho with gooey processed cheese-food and every large soda the concession stand sells.
This guy…he’s always in the row I sit in!
And they must do this in ten trips. Which means that ten times I should get up so hungry mungry can pass by.
In addition, if we catch the earliest showing, I don’t have to listen to rude gabbers talking while the movie is playing.
And this girl, she’s usually in the seat in front of me, but I don’t sit back quietly about it!
I’ve been known to get up mid-film and yelling to movie-goers to “Shut the eff up”. Yes. I have. Ask my kids. Ask Bonaparte!
Yes Niecy Nash. I AM going to sedate somebody!! I paid good money at a senior discounted price. I want to watch the movie in peace!
But, I also like my Saturdays to get my nails done, write, putz around in the great outdoors—and going to a later movie just ruins the timing of the day for both of us. I haven’t been to a night movie in years. Wait. I’m lying. The last time was at the premiere in Paris for “Demain Tout Commence”. But that was special.
It was very special to go to Paris to see Bonaparte’s cousin’s movie–but it was very crowded.
So anyway, we went this past Saturday to see the film “Dunkirk”. This is the film that focuses on three different elements of the Dunkirk Evacuation, an unfortunate event that was a blow to Britain. I won’t tell anymore about the movie’s plot because I do not believe in spoilers.
The movie was great! Visually it was beautiful although very intense.
What I will say is that I wasn’t thrilled about the idea of seeing a “War” movie, but Bonaparte really wanted to see it. I’m glad we saw it because the film was fantastic! It was a visual stunner and there wasn’t a lot of dialogue—there was no need for excessive chatter. The acting was terrific. Cillian Murphy, Tom Hardy, Kenneth Branagh, Mark Rylance, Fionn Whitehead–they were all incredibly intense. Harry Styles of the boy band “One Direction” was in it and he was great!
Cillian Murphy of the most beautiful man cheekbones of all time played a very disturbed soldier
Fionn Whitehead was great as the brooding Tommy
Tom Hardy stole my heart–but he always does..
Mark Rylance (with Cillian Murphy) had a paramount role. I’m not saying any more.
Kenneth Branagh had a role about as small as this photo–but he’s always fantastic!
The biggest surprise was Harry Styles of the boy band One Direction. He can act!!!
And here’s the thing.
Another reason we haven’t been to the movies in a while because the crop of movies that Hollywood is turning out is garbage!!
It’s true. Many movies are “Les Miserables” in the literal meaning!
I think we must’ve seen six trailers before Dunkirk started. Only one looked worth going to see. The remake of “Murder on the Orient Express” Yes. Another remake but this one looks fun and entertaining.
I know. It’s been remade many times but this version looks like 100 percent fun!
Entertainment. That’s why I love going to the movies. Under normal circumstances, I want an escape. I don’t want to be reminded of sickness, climate change, earthly or unearthly disasters or violence. (Caveat—I do enjoy a good story about WW 1 or WW2 every now and then).
Here’s a visual from the movie “Geostorm”. I can’t even….
I’m 62 years old. I don’t want so to see a movie for kids. I want an adult story. One with humor and pathos. And they are nowhere around because they have been replaced by movies about Minions and Superheroes.
Yeah. I get it. I know she’s empowering. But it’s a comic book character!!!!!
And I realize that a great number of adults love the minions. I am not one of those aduts.
And quite frankly, I’m tired of Disney movies!
I want another movie like “Big Night”—did you see it? I highly recommend this wonderful film for the adult mind. If you see it on DVD buy it–or rent it if available! It’s an oldie but goodie.
A great story and a great cast makes for a great movie!
The music was so great I purchased the CD and play it regularly. Here’s one of the songs: Claudio Villa with “Stornelli Amorosi” I don’t know what it means but if I saw it on a menu, I’d order it!
For those of you who may not be too familiar with my blog, my life isn’t all about what I’m wearing. It’s also about what I’m hairing. I hair–or rather, wear, wigs.
My favorite wig–“Storm” by Model Model. I have five Storms.
It’s due to the irreversible damage that I did to myself because I have a condition called “Trichotillomania”. I have spent a lifetime pulling my hair and, in the most disgusting habit since nose-picking, picking at my scalp.
I refuse to be ashamed of this and I refuse to be embarrassed about it. It’s who I am.
True. I don’t. I pulled and picked for most of my life. It is what it is!
My life has been one of anxiety. I’ve had twitches and nervous coughs as a child. I also exhibited some OCD. My parents took me to a doctor about my coughing and twitches when I was about nine years old. The doctor suggested to my parents that they take me to a phycologist. They did not and nothing was ever mentioned again. Ever.
Back then, it was basically taboo to talk about anxiety or any sort of emotional disorder. And to take me to a doctor—forget it!!!
Boo Hoo! Back in the day, nobody addressed emotional disorders. Now it’s talked about but still carries a stigma!
And so, anxiety and stress became a part of my life. And in dealing with it, I pulled at my hair. And picked at my scalp. It was a way of almost soothing me. And it caused permanent damage. Because of the picking and pulling, my hair never grew back. Add to that menopause and the natural process of aging and my bio hair just isn’t what it used to be. I’ve lost more than half of my hair.
This is me every day. “I’m OK!!!”…
And as I write this, I’m suffering from more anxiety. The phone rang. It was a recording reminding me to make an appointment for my annual lady exam. This causes tremendous anxiety for me. I have Pap anxiety, mammogram anxiety, colonoscopy anxiety, skin check anxiety, work anxiety, driving anxiety, weather anxiety, crowd anxiety, traffic anxiety (different from driving anxiety), error anxiety (I effing flip out whenever I make a mistake) and any other anxiety that you can think of. I have anxiety if a framed picture or piece of art isn’t exactly even. I will go around straightening them. MY LAPTOP KEYBOARD IS ALSO ANOTHER CAUSE OF ANXIETY!!!
This pretty much sums up my anxieties.
Regardless, this is a post about the hair that I’m wearing. So, let’s talk about it.
Wigs. They have a bad rap with white women. And don’t tell me otherwise! Younger women, bloggers, and vloggers will extol the virtues of hair extensions till kingdom come –but mention a wig and the mean girl spirit comes out.
No. This says stereotypical wiggy wig! He looks like Captian Kangaroo for chrissakes!
In the White Community, wigs haven’t become fully accepted or mainstream. Wigs are something women wear when they are sick –that’s the stereotype. And while that’s true, there are many other reasons women wear wigs.
Women do suffer from hair loss. Just as men do. There are women who have female pattern baldness, women who have alopecia, women who have Trich and many other reasons.
My mission is to get women to see that wigs are fun. Wigs are cool. And—wigs are convenient. They offer us the hair that most of us wish we had.
Catherine O’Hara’s character, wig-obsessed Moira Rose, on the comedy “Schitt’s Creek” makes me so happy–she’s ridiculously funny and the fact she’s wearing wigs makes me love her and the show even more!
And so, I’m doing another wig post today about…you guessed it!! What I’m hairing! Let’s go!!
Hair I am au natural! I took a shower this morning and let my bio hair dry naturally. There’s no need for me to blow it out while I’m wearing a wig. Toppers, which used to work fine to disguise the loss and now only an option if I’m wearing an updo, are not worn that much anymore. I can no longer get away with “just a topper” if I wear my hair down.
My clean hair. I’ll be honest. If I had all my hair back, I would wear it like this all the time. I dig my waves. But, take a good look…
From the top and the back, it’s not a good look. I sprinkled some Miracle Hair Fibers on my head. They work pretty well and are less pricey than Toppik.
These are the two that I wear and have worn on a regular basis in the past.
This topper is by Uniwigs. It is the Yaki Texture Topper in the 14 inch I don’t know if Uniwigs still sells the yaki texture topper anymore but they sell the Brazilian Straight. I have that too but didn’t take a photo–
As you can see from the photo, this topper does make my hair look thicker. The only slight issue I had with this was that the color was not a true jet black and in certain lighting, you could tell and I had to play around with the placement of the clips all the time. But other than that, it always looked nice when my hair was blown out.
Next is the 18″ Enhancer by Tony of Beverly. I have three of these. If you click on the link, you will see that the enhancer looks ridiculous on the model but IRL it looks fine. If you also scroll down on the link, you will see a review I wrote exactly a year ago. Before I went full-on with wigs. I wrote a few things about wigs I no longer feel the same way about. That’s because I became educated and did research!
Here’s the Tony of Beverly Enhancer. The lace top is very dark which is great for no scalp peeking. For the money, this topper is an excellent value and looks fabulous put up…
The Uniwigs topper doesn’t fare that well pulled up because the lace is softer and lifts like crazy. This TOB Enhancer stays put. This is the one I wore when I fell into the ocean and it never came off–so I ended up swimming in it and never had an issue! This topper is $55.00 on the Vogue Wigs site.
And now that I’m wearing wigs, I try to look for wigs that resemble my natural hair. As I’ve written in past posts, I wear hair by companies that are geared to the African American market. This is due to the texture of my hair and the luster of the AA wigs. They aren’t overly shiny! They look realistic. And they are affordable!
This is Sage, from Model Model. I cut a couple of inches from the length but she resembles my hair when it was blown straight. Sage is dense and has a lot of hair–just like I used to have. BTW–older women CAN wear long hair–even longer fake hair! She is $34.95 on Divatress site–but shop around because she can be found for a lesser price.
Sage again–but in a ponytail. This wig makes a nice pony but I did pull my bio hair out in the back and blended. I also had to secure with more pins due to the weight of the hair.
One other thing I want to mention about Sage. Although the hair itself is heavy and dense, the wig is very comfortable during the summer heat.
Here’s how Rita looks on me. A nice length with nice density and a very light silky yaki texture. Nice summer wig and nice for date night or even everyday wear!
Next up is Riley. She is $22.99 on Sistawigs.com. I purchased this unit from HairsoFlyshop.com on sale for $9.99. I bought two. I cut the length a bit. This is Bonaparte’s favorite wig. I like it but it isn’t my favorite. I wear it to work quite often.
My newest wig. Samala from Janet Collection. It’s a human hair blend. OK. And on the stock card, Samala doesn’t look all that appealing to me because of the color–but the price and length had me intrigued. Then I saw a video review from …
..TheHeartsandcake90 on YouTube and went for the purchase!
I LOVE Samala! And I’m thankful for that great review or I would have passed on this. It is a flattering wig and just the type I like–again, very similar to my bio hair when blown out. I paid $19.50 on Elevate Styles for Samala! Note–sometimes the shipping fee can bring the price of a wig up substantially–my tip is to check out ALL the sites for the best wig and shipping prices! I like my shiny lip gloss!
Next is Justine from It’s a Wig. This is my second favorite wig next to Storm. I wear Justine a lot!! I “justine” ordered another one!! I’m wearing her off my face in this photo.
Mmmmm. mmmmm! Look how pretty Justine is. Thick but not overwhelming. Perfect length. Stunning. Just. Stunning!
As you can see, I stick pretty much to what resembles my bio hair. I also like the “no-style” style. I’m not into fussy wigs–just as I was never into a fussy hair style with my bio hair. And I think that’s the most important thing to look for when making a decision to buy a wig. Stick to what you would wear for your bio hair. Don’t stray too much or you won’t be comfortable. Then–after a while head outside the box. I’m toying with the idea to go lighter in color a dark color with lighter highlights.
In the meantime, I have always loved bobbed hair. When my bio hair was shorter, I used to wear it in a bob–but I’ll tell you, it took forever to get it right. Nobody could cut my hair into the kind of bob that I wanted because my hair was just too thick, curly, frizzy and unmanageable. I would get it cut into a blunt bob and set it in big rollers, then blow dry it and it looked great until the humidity set in–then it looked awful. That’s where wigs can also help. They can give you that style you always wanted!
Ok–so I know I said that I don’t really like a “do” or a styled style–but I still love a bob. Here’s a sampling of two of the bobbed wigs I have–and they ain’t easy to maintain during the day either. However, for a fun change up….
This is the Brown Sugar Silk Lace Bob BS 609. Another wig I ordered from Divatress. I paid $29.95. It’s a beautiful unit and unlike a few other bobs I’ve tried in the past, this keeps its shape during the day!
One view…
..and another. I literally plopped this on top of my head so it looks a bit sloppy at the part, but this is a great, great bob!
Here’s a bob that gets a TON of lovewith wig reviewers. I have to admit. This is also a great bob–Copper, by Bobbi Boss! I got this so long ago that I can’t remember where I purchased–and I have two! It’s more like a Lob on me due to my short neck, but this is a great unit! The price point runs the gamut from $25.00 to $39.00–so if you like this, shop around!
Other info: I don’t wear a wig cap or a wig grip. I simply put my hair into two braids and pin them up Swiss Miss style.
Two braids pinned up is what works for me!
And today, I washed my favorite wig–Storm. Here’s how I wash my wigs:
Fill the bathroom sink up with cool water and a capful of wig shampoo.
Brush the tangles out before submerging in water. I use a wig brush or paddle brush–whichever I grab first. And I’m not gentle when I brush out those tangles–it’s ok though, the wig is synthetic and strong…
Into the sudsy water, she goes. I place her in gently then swish.
Look how filthy the water gets. I don’t overwash either. This was three weeks coming.
After rinsing the suds out from the shampoo, I drain the water and refill with more cool water and two capsful of fabric softener. YES! Fabric softener makes the greatest conditioner for synthetic wigs.
Three weeks of wearing this wig and this is the minimal shedding….
Combed my bio hair before washing and this was my shedding. …….Yeah.
Let the wig relax in the conditioner for about five to ten minutes then rinse.
Some like to blot the wig with a towel. I don’t do that. I simply take the wig, put it in a net and place in the bathtub. Let it dry and then brush. Turns out like new!
Yeah. So, Storm is in the bathtub in the guest bathroom now. I’ll keep the wig there for 48 hours to ensure it is completely dried. Then take it out of the net, give it a gentle brush and it’ll be good as new.
That’s about it–and that’s what I’ve been hairing.
Oh. And today, I ended up wearing the Brown Sugar Bob BS 609!
In the car, running errands with Bonaparte. A bob was in order today!
Thanks for reading–and if you ever want to change up your hair–you can always do it with a wig!
OK. Maybe to some wig-wearers are a cult. And that brings to mind one of my favorite bands from the ’90’s. The Cult. And this great song that I almost forgot about–had I not been turned on to “Amoeba Music-Whats in My Bag” on YouTube. My sons got me hooked. Musicians visit Amoeba Records in L.A. and pick out CD’s, albums, books they want. And they talk about it on this YouTube show. Anyway, one musician picked out a set by The Cult–and I went back into my memory. “She Sells Sanctuary”. Ian Astbury rocks–and he can dance!
Hey. It’s been a summer of eating, healthy meals, watching what I eat, gorging and gluttony! I was being so good and careful before we went on vacation.
Then we went away and I threw caution to the wind—and who wouldn’t. You really think I’m going to France to be on a diet? Nope! Aperitifs every night. Cheese. Cream. Meat. Pastries.
Yes. Cheese was my friend. Every. Single. Night!
Yum. Yum. I didn’t not hold back…
The healthiest things I ate were fish and Socca Chips—and that’s a stretch but they are made from chick pea flour.
I’m quite happy that these are not sold in the USA. It would be much too tempting! Now I know how Eve felt in the Garden of Eden. For me, it’s the Garden of Eatin’!
Yum! Mediterranean Sea Bass or otherwise known as Loup! At least it was healthy!
Add to that, the boys coming over for a weekend in which we feasted and ate all weekend.
Add to that I got off track and gained 8 pounds.
As I said last week at this time, I got on the scale and weighed in at 150. I’m only weighing myself once a week. If I step on the scale more than once a week, it’ll be frustrating because if you’ve ever been on a weight loss program, you know that weight can fluctuate from day-to-day.
I got on the scale today at 145 with the pointer jiggling between 145 and 146. I’m thrilled.
145. I’m back on track!
And I’m thrilled because I was very good this week. I finally got back on track. I’m back to making wise decisions.
Case in point—we went into Manhattan last Saturday to see Jake before he moved to L.A. and Bonaparte, Roman, Jake and I went to Knickerbocker Bar and Grill. I hadn’t been in that place in 30 years! It was good to be back at this very old establishment that isn’t trendy or a hot spot. It’s just a good ol’ place to eat.
We arrived at a great time. A bit before the crowds arrived! The Knickerbocker hasn’t changed in years.
Instead of going hog wild on the menu, I had to stop and think. Saturday afternoon. We would be leaving and having dinner at home. I made the choice to not have a drink and to have something healthy. I went for their Power Omelette from the Brunch Menu. An egg white omelette prepared with spinach, tomato, and goat cheese. It was delicious and filled me up.
My “will” power omelette. I gave the potatoes to the boys and only had a taste of bread!
This week it was a banana and yogurt brought to work for lunch. I’m very funny that way. I’ll have my coffee in the morning while I get ready for work. I am too cheap to buy lunch and am too damned lazy to prepare a full lunch to bring to work so yogurt and banana it is!
This–in my one euro bag I bought back from France–makes a great lunch tote!
I’ve been eating salads all week but with protein added. Boiled shrimp and hard-boiled egg. It hits the spot and since I’m not fond of making salads, Bonaparte has stepped up to the plate to prepare them for me!
I have to be honest, it’s been a pleasure to come home to a nice big salad prepared by Bonaparte!!
What I really need to do is look through the Weight Watchers cookbook that I have and bookmark recipes and search online for some decent recipes that are healthier. Anyone got anything?
The weather here has been hot, humid, gray and rainy. But—that’s summer in the Northeast! Here’s a bit of what I wore this past week!
I wore this blue linen blend last Friday. It’s from Old Navy and was purchased last year. It is so cool and comfortable and is fine for office casual.
I wore one of my new Old Navy swing dresses last Saturday when we went to visit the boys. I baked a batch of corn cookies for Jake and when Roman saw them, he dug in first!
On Monday I wore my black swing dress from Old Navy–I’m telling you, Old Navy is getting a lot of love from me this summer!
Tuesday turned out to be very cool and rainy. I went with a leopard skirt–from J. Crew Factory and so versatile–can be worn all year. I dressed up a bit in heels. The white tee and denim jacket gave it a casual vibe. I loved this look so much!
Yesterday was a pants day. Ten dollar Primark jeans and a Lilly Pulitzer tunic. Hi lo! Longchamp bag and Old Navy Flip Flops! This navy bag I purchased at Nordstrom’s Anniversary sale is getting a lot of use!!
Today I went with brighter colors in this Lilly Pulitzer number. Flip Flops or Scholls? I wore the Scholls!
Rain is in the forcast for this coming weekend. We’re planning on seeing the film “Dunkirk.” We’ve heard wonderful things about this film and we haven’t been to the movies in quite some time!
The good movies have been of slim pickings so we are both looking forward to seeing this!!
As our schedules wind down a bit and become slower, it’ll also be a good thing to putz around the house, get some plants for the deck and just relax.
Can you believe this? Almost August and these Poinsettias are still thriving! I am afraid to bring them outside but plants for the deck are badly needed!!
How are you spending your summer time? Are the days getting lazier for you or more productive! Do Tell!!
My son, Jake, moved to Los Angeles Today. The news about this move was given to me when we were in France. I’m pretty sure Jake waited until then because if he had told me before I left, I would have been a crying mess.
He’s embarking on an incredible career move!
I was the last person to find out about this because of my uncanny ability to do nothing but cry and feel sorry for myself when things don’t turn out the way I want them to.
I cried so much that if there was a drought, it would be over!
I’m not the perfect mom.
In fact, I pretty much suck as a mom.
I’m not that mom who speaks softly. I’ve never been that mom who says “darn it” or does that “tsk tsk” thing.
I’m not that mom who told the kids that “my friend” was coming for monthly visits. I’m the mom who bluntly announced, “Oh my God—the cramps!!” “I have my period!!!” “Be nice to me!!!”
Remarkably quite realistic of how I looked once a month. And if you ask my kids who this is, they will say “Oh my God–it’s my mother” They will not answer Zoey Deschanel.
I spent my days as a stay-at-home mom nurturing my children in my own distinct way and teaching them to be independent. I think I taught them the independence thing too well.
Oona is in Cincinnati. Jake will be in L.A. Roman is still in New York City but now I wonder—when will the time come that he decides to follow the steps of his older brother?
Jake and Roman arelikethis—and the best thing I did as a mom was to stress the importance of all three kids having each other. The boys are really close. Roman helped Jake with a lot of the packing–especially since Jake has a broken wrist!
Our family has never been perfect. I’ve always envisioned Christmas cards with us at the beach, sitting on the dunes, the sea-breeze gently blowing our hair into ever-so-perfectly strands that are one with the wind. Light blue chambray shirts and white jeans—all of us. A cross between a J. Crew ad and a layout in Town & Country magazine.
Like a version of the Kennedy family.
Look at those teeth!! Look at those smiles! I’ll never aspire to this sort of photo.
But alas, unlike any of the Kennedy women, I’m more like a pared-down version of a Mob Wife. With the gutta mouth to match!
I’m more like Rene from Mob Wives–but without the violence!
My child-rearing abilities—or rather, disabilities went against way my siblings raised their children. I never had a set bed time for the kids because they went to sleep when they were tired. And they loved their sleep and went to bed early on their own.
I also never denied their friends to visit. I love having my house as the gathering place. It was my way of knowing where my kids were! Sneaky—right??
I actually did buy Jake a box of condoms when he went off to college.
I didn’t believe in censorship. To a point. While I wouldn’t want my boys watching “Girls Gone Wild”, I allowed them to watch films and read books that may have been a bit mature for them at times. Well, I did forbid fashion magazines in the house when Oona was in middle school because I didn’t want her to grow up with a negative body image and I didn’t want her to think she had to look like those human Q-tips called models.
What can I say???
Damn. See how I’m bringing this back to me?
Here’s the thing. My son is clear across the country. I don’t think I saw enough of him during his young adulthood.
He went off to college, as kids do and when he returned, he moved back to NYC. I live in Pennsylvania. And although we saw each other, I’m sure, enough to keep him satisfied, we didn’t see each other enough to keep me satisfied.
One of my favorite photos of the boys. Jake could have had a great man bun with that head of hair!!
I’m a selfish mom, I am.
When your kids are younger, you never envision them as adults. Then you turn around and they are on their own. Where does the time go? It’s so fleeting!
But if anyone on this earth deserves the opportunity and the success that my young man has now, it is him. When his dad and I were going through our divorce, Jake left University of Texas to work full time so that he could return to the University as a State resident.
He worked his ass off, returned to school and managed to work his way through with honors.
He was focused and determined. I will never forget back when he was in third grade, I was emptying his backpack and a paper fell out. It was a test. His grade was a 78. When I later questioned him on why he didn’t show me or tell me about the test, he became angry. But he wasn’t angry with me. He was angry with himself. He was mortified that he had gotten such a low grade and told me point blank that would never happen again (Personally, the 78 was no big deal to me). He never did. He ended up at the top of his class and it was all from very, very hard work.
First day of Kindergarten at St. Ignatius Loyola School. How many kids are lucky enough to take the Subway to school at 4 years old?
I think of those nights spent during his childhood when he was sick. My God, I thought a flu was the worst thing that could happen. And don’t even get me started when he caught cat scratch fever! (Yes. There is a thing. And he got it from a cat scratch) I couldn’t speak for two days until the doctor finally told me everything was fine!
I think of the times driving to and from baseball and basketball practices and games. I think of the times when I would get to spend time alone with him when he was young.
He still has his beloved Red Sox cap from his middle school years!
It’s more difficult when a son moves far away, I think. Oona lives in Cincinnati, but we talk practically every day. We talk so much that we even argue over the phone. Then we make up. Sometimes Oona is the mother. Sometimes I’m the mother. But the thing is, she never feels like she’s far away. And her visits, although not as often as I would like, are longer ones.
Oona my mom. She’ll curb my FB posts about a certain person who isn’t my president!
Sometimes Motherhood hurts. And that’s ok!
I’ve been crying at work. I’ve been crying in my car. I’ve been crying at home. And now that you have allowed me to vent, I feel much better. I’ve finally stopped crying!
It hit me that the reason we have kids is to love them and by loving them we raise them to be responsible and successful adults. I did that.
Selfie time with me and the boys. We went into NYC on Saturday to hang for a while. It was great!!!
And now, I wish Jake all the success in the world as he embarks upon a very wonderful position out in L.A. He will be enjoying the sunshine and quite possibly healthier food. I don’t know if California sells full-on fatty ice cream—he may have to eat Tofutti!
But I’m proud and happy and rooting for his every success!
Things are back to normal. And I have a confession. I’ve been a naughty girl. Since arriving home over three weeks ago, I’ve been petrified to get on the scale. I knew I gained weight over vacation, and then some. But it wasn’t until I arrived home from work Thursday evening and was getting changed that I saw something I did not like.
It was the vision of me in my panties. They were a bit tight. So, I tried on my favorite jeans, which I haven’t worn in a while because I don’t wear jeans in the summer heat. They were tight. I mean tight!
Yeah. I was naughty, and I’m pissed off at myself but, I gotta turn it around!
And so, I thought about it. Not getting on a scale means I refuse to face reality. So, I took the scale out. I gingerly stepped upon it and saw an 8-pound gain. 150 pounds.
Time to focus on getting that 8 pounds off and back to eating healthy. I asked Bonaparte to stop by the market to pick up a 6-ounce slice of salmon for me for tomorrow and fresh spinach.
I will have my weekend aperitif because I refuse to deny myself.
There are just some things you do not deny yourself. Mine is the aperitif on the weekends. WEEKENDS ONLY!!!!
And on Saturday we headed into Manhattan to meet my sons for lunch. Jake, the oldest, is moving to L.A. on Tuesday. The company he will be working for is relocating him, but he needed a bit of help with some packing because of his broken wrist. I baked cookies for him. ( I am working on a blog post about this)
Now that I’m back on track and have that out of the way, I’ll be going back to a weekly report on the weight.
In the meantime, let’s talk about the summer face. Between the spray tan and the sunscreen I applied to my face, I had a major breakout when we were away. My face is darker and the freckles are out in force. I like that. But it means a different and less intense makeup routine.
My summer face..the only thing fake is my hair!
I’m forgoing foundation and wearing a bit of the Charlotte Tilbury primer instead for a bit of a glow.
Although I’ve had this since November, I’ve been using it a lot during this summer. If you recall my Tilbury Makeover...
Mally’s Nude Attitude Eyeshadow Palette has become my summer “go-to”. I like the neutrals and the bit of shimmer is quite nice—it’s not too shiny at all.
I’ve had THIS palette over a year. Thanks to Adrian from Mally, this is one of my favorite palettes ever–as you can see. My Mally Makeover was the greatest and taught me some great everyday looks!
But—the greatest buy of the summer has been e.l.f. Intense Ink Eyeliner. Holy Cannoli—the best $3.00 I’ve ever spent on a liner. It beats any high-end liner I’ve ever used. The felt tip is long and comes to a very sharp point—perfect for drawing that line! The product itself is dark and does not fade. I can’t say enough about this. I’ve already purchased backups!
You know me–I refuse to travel with high-end cosmetics–especially given my track record of losing things and leaving things behind. I purchased one of these liners before our trip to France and this–is…..epic! And let me put this out there. e.l.f. is NOT a mature woman friendly cosmetics company. They are obsessed with younger bloggers. I’ve reached out to them and was rejected and I STILL use and love this…
I love the end result of this eyeliner pen from e.l.f. It’s a cinch to use and lasts all day! Best three bucks ever!
Do you ever go shopping at Sally Beauty Supply? I often find fun buys on lip gloss. And the gloss is often on sale. Two that I have are from Femme Couture. They are XXL Plumping gloss and I’m a fan. The gloss isn’t long-lasting and I don’t think it really plumps, but the color and shine are beautiful.
Two of my favorite summer look glosses. Staying power isn’t that great but who cares? I apply a few times over the course of the day–there’s plenty in the tube!
I keep it very simple during the hot weather!
Now for what I’m wearing. Here’s a look at this week’s outfits and then some. I don’t know about you, but during the very hot days, I like wearing loose dresses. Old Navy came up with a gem of a dress this season. A jersey swing dress. The price ranges from $10.00 to around $15.00 depending on the sale. I ended up purchasing five of these. They are the greatest summer frock! Have a look.
You’ve seen how many times I’ve worn this $10 Old Navy Swing dress while on vacation. I can’t stop wearing it. BTW, it’s also a great dress to wear during a bit of a weight gain. It hides “ma belly” very well!
Yes–it’s another one of the swing dresses from Old Navy. I paid $15.00 for this one!
My black jeans from Primark, remarkably still fit thanks to the stretch. These jeans are also not heavy so they are good to wear for rainy summer days!
This gauzy J. Crew Factory dress is light and airy for hot summer days. The Fleur d’Oranger Intense is beautiful and lasts all day. The Rondini Bikini sandals I got last year have been my most-worn sandals this summer!
Nothing beats the heat like white. This is a dress I purchased last year, packed last year AND this year to France and never wore it–until last week–and I ended up wearing it twice since I returned. I’m digging the new Rondini sandals with it…
..on repeat. This time with different hair and my new Longchamp bag that I got at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. You know–I don’t buy clothing at the Nordies Anniversary sale because everything eventually ends up on sale, but I always make it a point to either make a bag or boot purchase. I have enough boots but I needed a navy bag and had been looking for one for a long time. You know that I’m very brand-loyal and was thrilled to see this Navy Longchamp as a part of the sale. I dressed it up with an Hermes scarf! Whatdya think?
Another Old Navy dress–this one from last year. A loose poly-cotton-linen blend. It’s paired with a 5-euro scarf I picked up at Geant hypermarche. Groceries and a scarf–almost as great as groceries and the bathing suits! I’m wearing my almost ten-year old Rondini Tropezienne sandals with this. This happens to be one of my favorite summer looks!
Maxi time! OMG–yet ANOTHER purchase from Old Navy!! A simple maxi from last year and worn with a paisly scarf from J. Crew that I can’t even remember how old it is. Cheap dollar earrings from Walmart and Rondini sandals and I’m good to go!
Another maxi look. The skirt–yeah. Old Navy. From a few years back. The tee–from Gap from years back. My new Rondini’s and Red Longchamp give this an Americana Red-white-blue fun summer look. I also want to add. I may spend money on my bags and shoes–but I’ll go low end for summer clothing!
Poly-linen skirt from J. Crew factory and a cute jersey shell from Ann Taylor–I have no idea when the shirt was purchased because it was that long ago! I’m completely into wearing sandals during the summer. My feet need to breathe and sandals are the next best thing to barefootin’ it!
Same J. Crew factory skirt with a white Old Navy Tee this time. THIS JUST IN!! Bonaparte laundered the skirt–he put it in the drier and I think it shrunk in length. I need to iron it later but I don’t know if I’ll be able to wear it anymore. Lesson learned. Do not put any clothing of mine in the drier!!!! I’m not mad though–he’s a good man!
Last weekend we went to Stone Harbor. I wore one of my 11-euro bikinis and used this Fragonard tote as a beach bag. But I have to tell you something. See that photo of me in the top right? I was wearing my Tony of Beverly topper and had my hair in a messy topknot. OK? Well, I was in the ocean about knee-deep. I stepped on a shell and bent over to check my foot. I fell head first into the ocean and my topper never fell off. I figured “what the hell” and dove into the ocean. I can now swim with a topper and it will stay secure. I’m thrilled that I can go back to swimming and the thinning and bald spots will be covered!!
As an aside, I’m reaching out to you to ask a question—since you know I’m awful at networking!! Does anyone know a book editor? I’m writing a book and am researching how to find an editor—and marketing myself is not my forte. Any information you can offer would make me a happy camper.
I had to sneak this photo of my Chippy. Is he not adorable or what? I can’t figure out if he wanted his photo taken or if he was protecting the goods in the bag? I am pretty sure he was just posing!
Thanks for reading and I hope the remainder of your weekend is a wonderful one!!
On the drive back from NYC yesterday, I took out a CD I hadn’t listened to in a while. Reve Orange by Liane Foly. She’s got a beautiful voice and is just a wonderful jazz singer. I love her! This song, Reve Orange gives you a sampling of her vocal talent!
Now that I’m back from our trip to France, I can tell you what I did wrong and what I did right.
In all my years of traveling to the Cote d’Azur, you would think I had mastered the art of packing light.
I didn’t.
As usual, I overpacked. I know, I know. I am constantly reading about “capsule” wardrobes and it just isn’t my thing. But I did make note of what I did wear. And I wore on repeat. I packed five wigs and only wore two. One only two days. Do the math! I’m telling you, I really “wronged” on the packing. Big time!
Here’s what I did end up wearing and all but the navy dotted shorts were worn on repeat.
First of all, this getup was my “hanging at home” go-to. Most dinners on the terrace were eaten wearing this tee and knit pj shorts. YES!! PJ shorts! Once a slob–always a slob!
I cleaned up well for our visits to St. Tropez. I wore this dress for every visit except on to St. Trop. I even wore it to the funeral. This ten-dollar dress was worn at least 7 times during the stay. Luckily I was able to wash it!
The 11 euro bikinis. Who cares about the soft body. I wore these practically every day. I ended up buying two of the paisly suit!
Another dress on repeat. And this was a whopping $16. at Primark! I was super comfortable because I didn’t have to wear a bra with this dress! Notice the Rondini Tropezienne sandals. I wore these almost every day!
I knew we would be doing a lot of walking in Ensues and Marseille so I wore sneakers. I wore shorts and a bobbed wig too.
This was the only other day I wore short hair. It’s Millie by Bobbi Boss and I love her! Another braless day with this off-the-shoulder shirt and white shorts. I did wear sandals!
Same white shorts, black Rondini sandals for a dressier look!
Date night in my other ten dollar Old Navy special! I ordered two more the other day. These swing dresses are so flattering!
My Rondini Bikini sandals were also worn a lot!
Honestly, all the outfits I wore in the above photos were all I needed. I wore an old Gap shift to the beach and pool as a bathing suit coverup. And underwear. All my clothes could have fit in a carryon!
Due to circumstances beyond my control, there wasn’t a lot of time to do shopping. But it really didn’t matter much because my goal was to purchase another pair of Rondini Sandals.
The red sandals are just as comfortable as my other Rondini sandals and ..they’re RED!!! RED!!!!! Shopping Goal completed!
Other shopping goals were small—more Fleur d’Oranger from Fragonard and more French music CD’s.
I stocked up on my Fleur d’Oranger Eau de Toilette at Fragonard, but also treated myself to the Fleur d’Oranger Intense. Pure Orange Blossom is my favorite scent!
Another goal was to find a great summer scent for my daughter, Oona. She gets very bad headaches from many scents—like mother, like daughter. She’s very particular. After over an hour of sniffing, spraying, and repeating, we decided on the Figue. And guess what? She loves it!!
We sent a package to Oona with the Figue eau de toilette, some samples, another scent from Adopt parfum and a Fragonard tote that she can use while grocery shopping!
I picked up another one of these totes as well. You can never have enough!
With a bit of time before our flight home, I went into the Duty-Free Longchamp shop at CDG. I hadn’t planned on it, but ended up with an expandable travel bag. The price at the airport was 130 euros. In USD that comes to $149.80. The same bag retails for $255 here. It was a great price!
This expandable travel bag is remarkably roomy and it was purchased at a great price!
Other little doo-dads included a gift for my neighbor, candy for my co-workers, my fabulous bikinis, and odds and ends. Cosmetics was not to play into this trip.
I know it’s kitchy and tacky but I love pushing the button in the back to hear the cicadas!
Stickers for the cars, Expandable wine totes from Nicolas..
These are great to load up on and give as a little something extra with wine bottles.
I did manage to pick up a couple of lip balms. This brand is great!
Treats for co-workers..
Think outside the box. A menu from my favorite restaurant will be framed and hung in the kitchen!
La Ponche is the area of St. Tropez where Bonaparte spent his summers…and we purchased this inexpensive sign at the marche in St. Tropez..
Dany’s hat now hangs on the wall…to the left is one of his prints!
What I did learn was that the Tuesday Market in St. Tropez is freaking unbelievable. My goal for next time is to purchase one of those vintage LV bags—I want one with a history!
Oops! I forgot. I picked this graphic tee up at the marche. I’ll be dressing it up with jeans and a blazer in the cooler weather!
But my goal for next year is to pick up one of these for a fraction of the cost. And they are genuine because France has very strict laws..
My shopping advice to the traveler who isn’t wealthy, but likes pleasant things (the category that I fall into). Save a few bucks each payday. Open a small bank account and use that money for one great item that’ll give you years and years of memories. Honestly, I look forward to my annual Rondini purchase because I now have a little collection of summer sandals—and I wear those sandals in rotation practically every day during the summer heat. And they are unique because nobody else around these parts has them!!
WRITE. Get a journal and pens and write, write about ANYTHING that pops into your head. Maybe you see something that brings old memories to mind. Journal your trip because you can also use those entries as references for the future. Take a half hour or an hour every day—it’s also a fantastic way to unwind after a busy day of touring and sightseeing.
I’ve got journals dating back ten years of trips to France!! Writing is a great reference!
Oh, I forgot about this too! Magazines. Gossip magazines are fun to try to decipher what is being written and a great practice is translating recipes from French into English!! There are some gems of recipes in here!
Don’t listen to others when it comes to safety. France is incredibly safe. Yes. France has had its share of a few attacks—but that’s nothing compared to the random murders and homicides in the USA. Every wacko here owns a gun. The like to pontificate that it is their right to bear arms. Well, it’s my right to life and I don’t want any moron going bang-bang when I’m around! Every day innocent Americans are the victims of murder—I call that domestic terrorism.
Not once did I feel even the slightest fear or anxiety. And the same goes for when I’m in Paris. It’s safe. So, don’t you let anyone tell you that it’s dangerous! Those are the people who live their lives in fear.
The food—what can I say? I’m paying for my sin of gluttony. My body is saying that I gained a good eight pounds. And it is not easy to take off. So, I shall be returning to writing about weight loss. I wronged on my diet but it felt so right!!! Vacation is the time to indulge—and I did!
Although I tried to stick to healthy choices..
I drank too much–empty calories that went straight to my belly!
This went directly to my thighs and was so tasty that I don’t care!
Observations—the French are a race onto their own. The French tan so naturally and well. They worship the sun. They bake like little roasted chickens on a spit. Their skin achieves various stages of caramel. From a light fleur de sel caramel to a more burnt caramel. I’m jealous. Not even a spray tan could make my skin as perfectly browned as the French. Bonaparte is living proof.
The French Tan–is to be compared to various colors of caramels..
Perhaps I could have just used this as fake tan!!!
In fact, he told me that I don’t know how to tan correctly. I need equal time on my stomach and my back. My answer to that is, I’ll just continue to sit under the parasol with sunscreen and fake it because I don’t want any more skin cancer!
France is also the capital of the Man Bun. Oh, if only I had taken photos of every man bun I saw—I would have no space either in my phone or camera. Not even iCloud could keep up with those delightful tufts of messy bun man hair! Man buns must never, ever go out of style. I asked my sons to grow their hair long again and wear man buns. They laughed at me.
Man bun..
Ohhh. Soccer Manbun!
YSL Man Bun. Best Man Hair ever!
When you take pictures, don’t take them all of yourself. Take pics of the scenery and items of interest. If you notice, there aren’t many photos of me at all—only what I wore. I don’t like taking photos of me when I’m traveling. I like to take photos of where I am. Make videos fun. Even if you are a newbie. Trust, me, this was a learning experience for my videos and now I’m hooked!
An old boat makes for an interesting photo
A lazy street
A ceiling at a restaurant made of tree branches and hats hanging down
A wedding you stumble upon–two brides, one groom?
Art work on a building.
And you don’t have to be a great photographer either. Just snap away!
That’s about it. It’s a wrap!!!
The song I’m showing you tonight is one of the reasons that I love buying French music. I’ve been listening to the Alain Souchon & Laurent Voulzy CD non-stop since my return and this song “Consuelo” is one of my favorites. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
3:52 AM. Eight minutes shy of my alarm going off and I’m too afraid to close my eyes in fear that I’ll fall back into a deep slumber. This is the beginning of our farewell to France. Summer. 2017.
With my clothing at the ready, white denim shorts that miraculously still fit, a striped shirt and sneakers, the clothes mean only one thing—comfort. I’m not dressing for a fashion post. Plus, my wig will cover my dirty hair!
All was quiet and still as we made our exit.
Leaving in the early morning darkness seems like the best way to leave. Silently.
An illuminated roundabout. The trees in the French Flag motif bid us farewell!
As we drove away the flickering of the lights across the bay, in Cannes, were clearly visible and sparkling. They seemed to be waving good bye to us.
It’s still dark but dawn is breaking and the lights across the bay in Cannes are flickering and waving to us!
There was nobody on the road—we were tout seul, all alone. Well, not all alone, we had the cicadas who were sleeping in the trees.
I swear to you, I’m posting this photo and thinking about how I would love to be back there right now!
Early in the morning, before dawn is the best time to be at the airport. We dropped the car off and headed to the terminal. Check in was easy and we had time to relax. The flight to CDG was quick. As the plane ascended, it was difficult to see where sea and sky divided. The buildings and mountains become smaller and finally disappear as we head into the clouds. A simple breakfast and we were descending into Paris.
The sun is rising and the airport shops are opening.
It’s still a bit odd to both of us that we no longer spend time in Paris before and after our stay in Theoule. When Daniéle was alive it was an important part of our trip. I still miss our trips to see her.
Ahhh. Daniele (pictured at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in 2015)–I miss my little nugget of fun!
We land at CDG and it is a zoo. Even early in the morning. On a Monday. It is a zoo. This is not my favorite airport by any means but it could be worse.
Luckily, we didn’t wait long for the baggage, but when we checked the baggage back in for the flight back to New York, my filthy suitcase had a bit of an issue with the automatic check-in. One of the Air France assistants had to take over—my God I hope this isn’t a red flag and my suitcase lands at JFK when I do!
Take a good look at that filth. I snapped this when we arrived home. Filthy as a piggy in the mud. But I love it because it would disgust even the most discerning of criminals. And all my good stuff is in there!
We discover that the flight home will be delayed by an hour. And the lines for customs are crazy long—but it’s summer and to be expected. At least the line is moving and all the customs agent’s booths are occupied!
I was a bit tickled because when I greeted the border officer in French he mentioned he liked my accent. I guess he’s not used to NewYawkeezeFrench!
A bit of airport shopping, the delay ended up being less than an hour and we were off in the wild blue yonder!
I’m telling you CDG airport is like a motel–so many delays its a good thing they installed sofas and recliners. Travelers gotta sleep!
I have great memories of this trip. Bonaparte’s dad may have passed but it brought Bonaparte and his brothers closer. Our 2017 visit had twists and turns and it was one of the most memorable.
From magnificent vistas..
To cute little benches..
to a quiet morning at the pool
…slummin’ on the beach..
…picking out ripe melons..
buying more scents..
Enjoying easy,lazy long lunches in St. Tropez..
..and celebrating the long life of a loved one. It was a great trip!
France is a beautiful country and with each return, it becomes more difficult to leave her. But it was fun and enjoyable to share my trip with you. Thank you for allowing me to share these memories!
I can’t believe we’re home again. And regardless of where you travel, visit or roam, it’s always a comfy, cozy, fuzzy-feeling time when you get to sleep in your own bed. Don’t you think?
Isn’t it good to sleep in your own bed?
I realize that a French song could be more appropriate, but I just couldn’t get “Two of Us” by The Beatles out of my head while writing this!!
I have one more travel post to write and then after that, I’ll be returning to topics like, hair loss, makeup, clothes, rants, raves, dieting and anything else that strikes my fancy! Honestly, I’m thrilled to be home and writing again and I hope to keep you entertained!! XOXOXOXOX!!!
Where has the time gone? I mean—just two weeks ago we were giddy and happy because a year had passed since last time we were in Theoule. Now the time just flew by.
We won’t see this view again for another year.
We were supposed to go to Eze and Monaco and just never got around to it because we had other more important things to do.
Our future trips here will be slightly different because we won’t get to have lunch with Dany anymore—but we will be able to visit him through the Musee and by having lunch at LaRamade while talking about our great memories of him!
It’s another spectacular morning here. Cloudless sky. The wind has picked up but it is still warm. All is well as we make our way through the apartment to pick up and pack.
My favorite video from this series. We are closing up shop!
Sadness always takes over whenever we leave this little but lovely living space for two weeks each summer. I feel as though it is my second home. Over the years I’ve become so familiar with the surrounding areas and I’ve almost turned into a local.
We are spending the next two nights at “Le Club”—the clubhouse at La Galere. Le Club has a separate pool, rooms and one of the best restaurants and bars I’ve ever been to. Because the apartment must be prepared for the next rental, we’ve started a tradition of spending our last two nights at Le Club. It’s fun! And it breaks up the sorrowful emotions of having to leave.
Our room. Just for you and only for you!
Because the pool at the club is surrounded by shade trees, we’ll head off to the pool we normally laze at.
The pool at le club. Way different than the other pool! But still very nice!
Bonaparte suggested driving back to Cabris, but I didn’t want to chance it because today is the official first day of high season. Traffic will be an absolute bitch!
Instead, we drove into Cannes and one of my favorite towns—Antibes, along with the beautiful Cap d’Antibes! We also had the idea, since we are having our last dinner tomorrow at the club’s restaurant, to pick up sandwich makings and have a picnic in our room!
One of the many spectacular homes along the Bord du Mer in Antibes–and nobody is around yet!
My favorite home in Antibes. I can’t afford a home like this but I can dream. Can’t I?
The drive to Antibes along the Bord du Mer is one of my most treasured rides. The homes are spectacular and always just makes me cheerful. We wanted to spend more time here but due to circumstances just didn’t have the time.
Check this little alcove out. Year after year, I feel the need to return to this little nugget of an inlet because it is just so charming and old school. It never changes!
Oy. Am I in Miami? No!!! I’m in Antibes!
And drive we did. Because of this first day of high season, parking was literally impossible.
Another view from the car.
The bay with Antibes in the background.
We missed our annual walk around the ramparts because parking was just unbearable.
Cannes was no better. A fete of circus events was slated for the evening and the port was literally a make-shift circus construction area. Add to that traffic, traffic and more traffic and …well, it was what it was.
Dammit! I never got to shop at Dior!!……………and never will!
Our indoor picnic ended up being a lot of fun. For Bonaparte, it was a trip outside the box for him. For me, it was nothing unusual.
Some baked goods that we thought about purchasing for our indoor picnic!
We did get bread…
The look the baker gives you when you start licking the glass on the display cases because everything looks so delicious!
Chef Bonaparte at work..
Jambon!
We were both exhausted and I do believe it was more of an emotional thing rather than physical given the events from yesterday.
Good night!
Sunday, July 2nd, 2017
Whew. Is it really our last day here? That “Sunday” feeling is beginning to take over my being. You know what I mean, don’t you? That feeling of gloom because the work/school week will resume. Any form of pleasure from the weekend will be thrown into your past memory bank.
Bonaparte practically had to drag me out of bed this morning. I don’t want to get up. I want to stay in this big comfy bed and pretend that we just re-started our vacation—life on replay!
Another sunny day. Gloriously bright and hot. No humidity at all!
Our last sunny morning. Is this not glorious?
We went downstairs to a very American-style Petit Dejeuner. The scrambled eggs were perfect—moist and on the wet side cheese and a mini-baguette finished the plate off. The coffee was just the medicine I needed to make me awake, aware and alert!
A hearty French breakfast…
I swear I should have just popped these sugar cubes into my mouth–after all, I ate everything else!
I dare not step on the scale when I get home—at least for a month because that is how long it’ll take me to get back to slightly normal!
We are now at the pool for the last time of France 2017! Sunscreen applied, under the parasol, reading and writing materials close by and I’m even happier because…
The last morning at the pool–early and before the crowds arrive
Bathing Suit Lady has arrived!! I suppose that her schedule was changed because it was more beneficial for her to be here during high season only.
This photo is from last year, but bathing suit lady sells a ton of swimwear from this little booth!
Her wares are wonderful but nuthin’ beats my 11-euro bikinis!
On this last day, I decided to take a few photos of the port at LaGalere
It’s such a cute and small port. I wish I could have just gotten on one of those boats and taken off.
I truly love this community and feel like a local.
I went back to my phone to check if Chateau la Napoule is opened. It’s not. Next year!
Soon we’ll go to fill the car with gas, get ready for dinner and officially end our time here.
Bonaparte keeps apologizing to me about the fact that Dany’s situation took up so much of our time. I don’t care!!!! It’s OK!!!! It was more important for him to be at his dad’s side and it was more important for him to see his family.
This trip was just as great as the others—if not one with more meaning!
Back in the car, back at the club to change and get the car gassed up. Bonaparte spotted a DIY car wash. You know what that meant…
We gassed up the car and Lord knows, Bonaparte would never return a car with so much as a spot of dirt on it. I enjoyed the view!
We went into Geant and I couldn’t help it. I got a second paisley bikini. At 11 euros, I just could not help myself. I also purchased an adorable scarf for 5 euros and a Francis Cabrel CD.
When we returned to the clubhouse, we started to unload and…the fire alarm went off. Damned if I wasn’t going to take all my stuff with me!! But we were told to keep everything in the room. Ultimately, the issue was some numbskull lighting up a cigarette in the Sauna. Really????
Ignorance is global!
After the drama of the Sauna, we headed back to the room, relaxed a bit then got changed for dinner.
The most makeup I wore on this trip–and this dress certainly got a TON of wear. Took me no time to do my hair–teehee!!
We sat in our usual little alcove with a view of the club’s pool and other diners.
Our table.
Tchin. Tchin! Aperitif!
My appetizer was Coquilles St. Jacques tartare. WOW. A complete flavor explosion!
Bonaparte started off with crab and it didn’t make anyone crabby either. It was wonderful!
Bonaparte’s usual. Steak frites!
I went with a seafood trio. I look forward to my dinners in Theoule because I always have the best seafood!
Bonaparte went with a very healthy berry dessert..
While I chose a more unhealthy Zabaione–well, it did have a bit of fruit!
And what a dinner it was!! There isn’t much of a turnover here. We’ve seen a few staff members here for eight years—so my thinking is that LaGalere must be a wonderful place to work. I wish I could work here!
A toast to you for reading my post! I hope you are not disappointed!
We must get to bed early because the alarm is set for 4:00 AM!
I’m sorry that I’ve been dismissive in writing, but it’s been a bit weird the past few days. Vacations are to be enjoyed to the fullest and funerals usually are not in the plan.
So then, how do I begin?
A bit of a backstory. Dany’s sons, Francois and Martin are from his second marriage. They have been a more visible part of Dany’s life simply because Bonaparte was raised by his stepfather and in his twenties, moved to the States.
Dany’s third wife was a force to be reckoned with. I’ll be as kind as I can by saying that this woman basically cut Dany off from Bonaparte and Dany’s other sons.
It wasn’t until about four years ago that I had had enough. Dany’s third wife had passed and I felt that Bonaparte and Dany needed, as father and son, to make peace. I knew Bonaparte wanted to but he was too stubborn.
I took my chances. Perhaps my pilgrimages to St. Rita had paid off. But on one of our visits to St. Tropez, I sauntered into Dany’s Musée. I had a hunch he would be there. Call it women’s intuition. I explained, in my broken French, to the woman at the front desk who I was. I also explained that Bonaparte was outside at the end of the passage and was too stubborn to enter.
She knew Bonaparte and the family and Dany was upstairs in his studio. She took it upon her to go outside with me and wave Bonaparte in.
The rest is a very wonderful father/son reunion. This reunion took place when Danièle was still alive; and when we returned to Paris to explain what happened, she cried. She cried because she was thrilled that it happened.
And in the past four years, Dany and Bonaparte continued their relationship as though nothing ever happened. They spoke regularly. We visited him every year and enjoyed our time with him.
This photo was taken when father and son reunited. It was also before the remodeling of the museum. Cool wooden boats were suspended from the ceiling–this is Dany’s studio at the Musee.
If they hadn’t made peace, Bonaparte would have regretted it for his lifetime.
And so, we move forward…
We drove to St. Tropez early in the morning. Our plan was to meet Bonaparte’s family and head to the funeral. The funeral service wasn’t to be held until later in the afternoon and I certainly was not prepared for the type of funeral that was to come.
Traffic was on our side and so was parking—we were to park the car at Dany’s residence. But—since we arrived early, Bonaparte wanted to take the time to hang at the port and take a few photos.
Arriving early, we were able to take a few “vacation” photos.
Look what I spotted in the parking lot. A poster of museums in St. Tropez and Dany’s Musee is one of them. If you are ever in St.Tropez…..
On to the port. It’s too bad that the large boats now hide the view of the other side of the port.
it is still an iconic sight..
Bonaparte explained that as much as Dany loved St. Tropez, he wasn’t fond of the fact that huge, magnificent yachts and charter vessels had taken over the port that was once home to small fishing boats and pirogues. And intimate little bistros and cafés were replaced with fancy and expensive establishments. In fact, during high season, Dany, in his younger older days, would often retreat to the back country and mountains when St. Trop became too full of the “beautiful people”.
This boat made me think of how St. Tropez used to be. Bonaparte said that it was so different when he was young. St. Tropez hadn’t yet been “discovered”
The good thing is that this boat is being restored to it’s original beauty. I hope we get to see it as it was when we return next summer.
It may be large but this was a beautiful old-school yacht.
More boats.
This view never gets boring..
An interesting sculputre..
I dig these. A lot!
He never cared for Paris and St. Tropez was his escape. His safe place and the place he loved. He eschewed the privileged life he was born into and was, a bohemian at heart.
We met up with Bonaparte’s family at the hotel where they were all staying. Bonaparte’s brother Martin’s first wife was there. Yolanda. We hit it off immediately and had an enjoyable conversation. Her English was remarkable and I later learned she worked as a flight attendant back in her younger days.
We arrived en masse at Dany’s residence and could say our goodbyes. He was suited in traditional St. Tropez clothing. A black suit, red scarf, white shirt and his hat lay on top of him.
We made our way outside and the simple casket was placed into a simple white van. Here’s where things got interesting.
Bonaparte told me that we would be parading around the city of St. Tropez to the Hotel de Ville—the town hall where the Mayor of St. Tropez would give a speech. From there we would walk over to the church for the service and from there walk up to the cemetery.
My eyes grew wide with surprise—and then I started to laugh. I laughed because the memory of last year’s infamous parade through the streets of St. Tropez with me leading Dany in a chair wheeled by Bonaparte was brought back to the theater of my mind! (If you are not familiar with that post—here it is: Hey. Don’t Rain on My St. Tro-Parade). Remarkably, that parade took place almost exactly to the day of this parade.
The van pulled out and the family and a few friends followed at a snail’s pace. All I could think of was the funeral in The Godfather. As we entered the village, shopkeepers who knew Dany joined in the parade. Restaurant owners also joined in. More friends entered the parade and before you knew it, there was a parade of people that I’m sure made Dany’s spirit smile.
Family and friends followed the van throughout St. Tropez. BTW, look at Mona’s shoes. They are fabulous!!
More and more people joined the procession.
Men we passed by respectfully took their hats off and placed them across their chests while bowing their heads. I forgot to mention. The procession was led by the police.
The policeman making sure the path is cleared. We had to wait a few moments for a wedding to end at the Hotel de Ville before making our way up.
OK. Am I THAT bad for wanting to enter into this shop to look at the dresses? I wanted to so badly but knew it would be inappropriate.
But then again, I could have confessed to this very, very handsome priest–which I should have done. Oh this priest could have been a hipster girl’s dream man…
And he wore Tropezienne sandals!!!! And his manfeet were beautiful!
I must say, Father Tropezienne was Catholic Eye Candy!
We arrived at the Hotel de Ville and the Mayor gave a very beautiful tribute. I was able to understand much of what he was saying and it was touching.
People gathering at the Hotel de Ville
Bonaparte was touched by the number of people who showed up to pay their respects
Dany was brought out to attend his tribute!
And the mayor gave a beautiful speech (I didn’t take this photo–someone from the St. Tropez paper took it)
He ended with a moment of silence
Next stop was the church. Father Tropezienne led a beautiful ceremony and my favorite part was when the Frankincense was spread throughout the altar and the rest of the church. I love that scent. It reminds me of old-school Catholic services from when I was younger.
The Church of Our Lady of The Assumption in St. Tropez was where the service was held
Family and friends gathered then entered…
The service was a beautiful send-off and I was honored to receive Communion here
With the service ending, we exited the church and the procession made its way to the cemetery. Dany was buried with his mother, Muse. Father Tropezienne said a few more prayers and Dany was laid to eternal rest.
This is so awful but I couldn’t help but feel bad for the Altar Boy–he really looked like he wanted to be somewhere else. He was such a trooper!
This is NOT a bad place to…
…rest in peace now–is it?
Francois handed Dany’s hat to Bonaparte-it was a very moving and emotional moment for him. For many reasons. And that was it…
Francois’ wife came up to me and told me that I could say I attended my first Tropezienne funeral. You know, Bonaparte is lucky because his family is a group of very kind, generous and gifted people. They are also incredibly welcoming to me. As the lone American, I feel honored to be welcomed and accepted by them.
We were to meet at Café des Arts, one of Dany’s hangouts, for drinks and then onto La Ramade for dinner.
Bonaparte and I took a quiet walk and by the time we arrived at the café, I was both thirsty and hungry—not to mention hungover from last night’s dinner.
OK. So, it’s a bit small, but the fact that Bonaparte has his dad’s hat is very special…
Friends and family enjoyed themselves with lots of wine..
Martin and Father Tropezienne
Bonaparte. The Hat. And one of Dany’s Artist friends.
At LaRamade, I didn’t even have to order Rognons because the owner brought them right to me—I felt like such a local. I also drank way too much rose!
Gone–but not forgotten!
The wood-burning hearth at LaRamade. The sight of many of Dany’s meals…
Martin and Bonaparte. You can tell from the focus of this pic that I was basically two sheets to the wind at this point!
This was unlike any funeral I had ever been to because it truly was a celebration. There was nothing sad. Nobody wore black except the priest. Everyone was in great spirits.
It was a total celebration of a life and a man who loved every day of his almost 97 years.
Here’s to you Dany, I know you are with Evie now…
…and thank you for allowing me to be a part of your life!
Saint Tropez is watching over us as you are…
Dany requested that Mozart’s “Requiem” be played at his funeral—so I give this to you.
The summer “soldes” (sales) begin today throughout the Cote d’Azur. Our plan was to do some shopping but since it’s so nice out—we ditched the idea and will hit the pool. We’ll see what the rest of the day brings.
Another hot day at the pool.
I’m at the pool now beginning book number four—The Paris Architect. I just can’t get into it. I dunno if I’m all read out or what. Perhaps I just need to write instead.
The heat was, as usual intense and clouds rolled in around noon. We took it as an omen to leave and decided to head up to Cabris and do a bit more shopping at Fragonard.
Just as we were getting into the car, the phone rang. It was Bonaparte’s brother, Martin.
Dany passed away a few moments ago. The attendants were getting ready to clean and change him and he stopped breathing.
He let go. He could leave in peace because his sons were with him during his last days. Just shy of 97 years old, he led one of the most interesting lives I’ve ever heard about. Some of his stories were fascinating—especially the ones of his growing up rather privileged and his adventures during WWII. I’ll write about them sometime.
Looking on the bright side, Dany waited until Bonaparte crossed the Atlantic. The timing was a gift. If this had happened after we arrived Stateside, Bonaparte would have had to turn back around and….
Martin told us that Francois was on his way down from Paris to make arrangements for the funeral—because we were leaving in five days, the funeral would be held as soon as possible. There was very little time to plan. But for now, things were at a standstill.
This was probably one of the oddest vacations I’ve ever been on—and I don’t mean that in a bad way at all. It’s just that Dany couldn’t have picked a better time to leave—and I know that sounds twisted but it’s just one of those things that we happened to be there when this happened. Do you know what I mean? I hope so.
And after seeing how Dany’s health took a turn for the worst, the news of his passing was a relief. He was out of any pain and suffering and our last vision of him was the one from the documentary. It was one of dignity and life.
Bonaparte talked about Dany while we were driving—we decided to go ahead with our plans and we headed up to Cabris to walk around. We wanted to stop at Atelier Lulu—a lively and fun art studio. The focus is the artist’s cat—Lulu! It was our plan to make a purchase but the studio was closed.
Our favorite little studio was closed!! I should have called first!
Cabris never gets boring. The buildings come to life in the sun. I swear if Cabris was closer to the sea, I would want to stay here.
Winding streets.
A little square by the
…..by the auberge.
A view from above.
And below
A house with a stone bench
A charming DIY planter.
Blue shutters
Another view.
So, we walked around. As usual, my clumsiness got the best of me and I walked into a small wall and cut both legs. Some things never change!
The wounded wanderer!
The visit to Cabris ended with my annual visit to St. Rita. I lit a candle, prayed for Dany and a few of my friends, and mentioned to St. Rita that I saw her in Marseille last week!!
Saint Rita always leaves the door opened for me! Merci Ste Rita.
And the Chapelle is dated….
We made a second stop at Fragonard. Oona needs a summer scent. Her signature scent is Mademoiselle by Chanel. But, like the meddling mom that I am, I decided she should have a parfum for the summer. One that is lighter.
I LOVE this tile picture of Louis XIV–Fragonard is a great place to spend a few hours just smelling stuff!
She can’t do many florals, though, because she gets headaches.
I enlisted Bonaparte in the mission and we focused for about an hour on different scents—fruity, floral, woodsy, airy.
We sniffed the contents of every bottle…
And then some more
But we kept going back to “Figue”–It Figuers!
We picked up a Fragonard tote for her too. I picked one up for me–these make great beach totes. Aren’t they colorful?
And ended up with “Figue”—it’s a light but fruity number and I know she’ll love it! We also picked up a Fragonard shopping tote for her.
Back to Cannes for wine and dessert and more Socca Chips and we headed off back home to have a peaceful and quiet dinner. And Bonaparte entertained me with more stories of his dad.
More guilty pleasures..
In hindsight, I’m glad these are not sold in the States because I would be eating them every day. At least two bagsful!
Bonne Nuit.
Thursday, June 29th
OMG. The wind was fierce last night. I swear I slept straight through thunderstorms and never woke up once during my epic slumbers—but I woke up from the wind.
The sky is clear and the air is hot—but there is still a strong wind. Bonaparte says it is the Mistral. Bonaparte says this with every breeze that blows by. But I think he may be right. The Mistral can last from one day to six. I sure hope this is a mini-mistral! I’ll have to make sure my wig is on tight!
Dany’s funeral is tomorrow but today we’ll celebrate his life!
We’re going back to L’Estagnol and tonight we are going to celebrate Dany with dinner at Gaston Gastounette. After all, this is a vacation!
McDonald’s IS my kind of place–for a decent cuppa cawfee!
We stopped at McDonalds for some nice hot cawfee—and I received news from the States. My oldest son is moving to L.A. in an opportunity we can only dream of. I can’t say anything more for now—but stay tuned. And yes. I did break down crying. But I was also happy for him. Never a dull moment in France!
Ya know. I really really should have not had cawfee at the apartment knowing full-well that I would be wolfing down more on the way to the beach. Once again, we took a wrong turn. Only this time the turn wasn’t in the usual spot. I had to go to the bathroom. My usually incredible strong bladder was feeling serious effects.
I had to break my sweet demeanor and insist that Bonaparte drive off the road and find a nice lush “spot” for me. Oh—and yes, I did. I managed to meander down into a deep gully without falling. I was one with nature as I “made”. But then I realized that my leg was wet and so was one of my Rondinis.
As I turned to leave I heard a splash. The cicadas in the nearby trees were jumping down into the lake that I created. I heard them thank me. I turned around, smiled at them and made my way back to the car.
Meet my little friends. These guys are the greeters outside of L’Estagnol!
L’Estagnol was extra fun today. The “Mistral” gave the sea a fresh look—complete with small waves. The water was great. Bonaparte refused to go in due to the fact it was too cold for him. It was perfect for me!
These were the huge waves at L’Estagnol. Notice. Nobody is in the water. It’s too wavy!!!
That woman had the greatest bathing suit. I’ll bet she paid a lot more than 11 euros!
Everyone’s having fun!
After an enjoyable drive back,
We drove back on the Bord du Mer
I need to watch it or I’ll walk into another wall.
we drove into Cannes to a wonderful dinner at Gaston Gastounette at our favorite table—Number 80, overlooking the port and the many people who were walking by.
I wore my ten dollar dress from Old Navy and did NOT go barefoot!
At Gaston Gastounette
I was guarding that Rose like a pit bull. I had quite the buzz on..
I started off with crab meat and wasabi. It was beyond delicious..
Bonaparte started with moules.
I had Loup de Mer (Sea Bass) with Asparagus and Ravioli in a sauce that I should have just applied to my hips. This was one great dinner!
Bonaparte went with his usual filet mignon–which was served with the most tarragon-flavored, thick Bearnaise sauce. I wish I could dupe that sauce!
Mmmmm. mmmmm! Look how pretty Justine is. Thick but not overwhelming. Perfect length. Stunning. Just. Stunning!
Three weeks of wearing this wig and this is the minimal shedding….
Cabris never gets boring. The buildings come to life in the sun. I swear if Cabris was closer to the sea, I would want to stay here.
