tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-182376592011-04-22T16:09:29.021+02:00Life in France. Life in general. Scrapbooking, rubber stamping and other paper crafts. A way for my family and friends to keep in touch with me.Francinenoreply@blogger.comBlogger3691100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-57080279002154196792008-06-22T17:20:00.004+02:002008-06-22T17:34:32.169+02:00

I spoke last month about making some changes and combining my blogs. I've done that to some extent, but because I still had a separate scrap/craft related blog I was finding it hard to keep on top of things and keep things balanced. This week I took the plunge and started a new blog on Typepad. I decided to make a clean break and start with a new platform. All the content from this blog has been

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-78704248897935314462008-06-16T09:31:00.004+02:002008-06-16T09:41:08.576+02:00

I have the same fight every morning: I never want to wake up. I lie there between dreams and awakening, fighting off the inevitable, convincing myself that yes, I can snuggle in deeper for another hour or so. But knowing that I really can't, that I certainly shouldn't. Usually the thought of a fresh cup of coffee (delivered to me in bed this morning) helps, and I throw off the covers, greet the

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-1762862113986908962008-06-15T23:11:00.002+02:002008-06-15T23:17:05.902+02:00

I completed four projects yesterday. This included conceiving, executing and delivering an online classThus proving that I can accomplish much more than I normally do in a daySo I am planning the week ahead with this in mindI will apply Marci's "three things" system to my list everydayAnd focusAnd not beat myself up for not crossing everything off my list, but regroup and move on

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-63121836013039872008-06-13T16:58:00.003+02:002008-06-13T17:14:41.337+02:00

Well, it's been a crazy few weeks since getting back. I am trying very hard to get back into a routine, and I think I am almost there. I started a new Make a Thing a Day for a Month project, which has been taking up the majority of my time. So far most everything I have made this month is scrapbook related, but I plan to branch out soon. I spent the last few days selecting and saving some online

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-16495010491266135362008-05-30T19:54:00.005+02:002008-05-30T20:08:43.954+02:00

I'm back in France, but the reverse jet lag has kept me under wraps since I got in on Monday evening. I had a pretty horrible trip back, mainly due to having to spend the entire day Monday at Heathrow trying not to fall asleep before my flight. Then being tossed like a feather in the wind between London and Lyon. To make it worse the weather here sucks. Probably punishment for complaining about

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-9278225472478246022008-05-23T22:09:00.001+02:002008-05-23T22:23:36.461+02:00

1. Jenny, 2. Zoe, 3. Ginger Lily, 4. Hi there!, 5. Cattle Wash, 6. evening walk, 7. fish out of water, 8. sunset over st. thomas, barbados, 9. Oistins at night, 10. purple, 11. curly, 12. mama's tea set, 13. This must be why they call it the Gold Coast, 14. on duty, 15. oh, orange!, 16. smile!, 17. join me for dinner?, 18. day is done, gone the sun, 19. my view, 20. relax, 21. desert rose, 22. me

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-70411830958248801762008-05-23T00:14:00.004+02:002008-05-23T00:43:36.451+02:00

1. How freaking hot it is. Ok, obviously I expected it to be hot and I was looking forward to that, but it is SO hot! Not that I am complaining of course......2. Being greeted everywhere you go. I love that about small islands, the acknowledgement that you are in the company of another human being, even if you may never see them again in your life.3. The unwritten rules of the road: flashing your

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-54515415790873117202008-05-16T16:35:00.003+02:002008-05-16T16:41:00.623+02:00

Hiking, hanging out, eating A LOT, laughing, the doggies, the beach, tropical flowers and more!1. burnt, 2. Royalty, 3. Heliconia 1, 4. Caribbean Style, 5. sweet sugar cane!, 6. water, 7. the grotto, 8. heading into the gully, 9. local thistle, 10. farming, 11. Heliconia 2, 12. 19/365 - the neighbourhood, 13. 17/365 early morning, 14. through a mirror, 15. Brown's Beach 2, 16. lizann, 17.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-87163959279264148212008-05-13T20:05:00.002+02:002008-05-13T20:09:21.924+02:00

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-76728555371352524482008-05-12T15:55:00.005+02:002008-05-30T20:10:15.858+02:00

Every Sunday morning for as long as I can remember, the Barbados National Trust has led a hike around different areas of the island, as a way to educate people about the heritage of the island. The hike starts at 6:00 a.m., and when we were much younger my sister and I went every week with my Mum. Thanks to jetlag I was actually up to going yesterday, since I am waking up ridiculously early these

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-84778644740784391632008-05-09T17:03:00.004+02:002008-05-09T17:20:31.806+02:00

It's 31 degrees, I can hear birds chirping, and everybody speaks English. Yup I am home at last. The last couple days have been harrowing, but that's all behind me now. Well not exactly. Remember my theory of being able to quickly recognise my orange suitcase? Well I wasn't able to test it because my luggage didn't make it! Yeah, right? I am crossing my fingers that it will come today, because I

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-45277352297195333292008-05-05T21:24:00.003+02:002008-05-06T10:10:36.774+02:00

I'm counting down the days, practically the hours until I leave. Basically, I'm running around like a chicken with its head cut off, trying to make sure all my ducks are in a row (enough metaphors for ya?)I just, like an hour ago, bought a new suitcase because there's no piece of luggage in this house that can handle another transatlantic trip. It's a lovely bright orange, so I won't have any

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-54075763013658224102008-05-04T20:11:00.003+02:002008-05-04T20:13:29.890+02:00

Cinnamon toast for breakfast and Lucas blows up balloons.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-71165659249974568042008-05-01T19:27:00.006+02:002008-05-01T20:12:58.582+02:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } 7/365 - I don't know, originally uploaded by scrappyfran. Lucas baked these today. When I asked him what they were he said " I don't know". Whatever they might be, they are delicious! Luckily I took the photo right away

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-73572190815040355352008-05-01T19:27:00.005+02:002008-05-01T19:44:15.060+02:00

I am really happy that it is May. Not only because it started out right with a beautiful warm sunny day, but because I leave in a few days and head home to Barbados and Grenada for about two and a half weeks!! I'll be spending my birthday there, and I am really looking forward to hitting the beach every day. I am already dreaming of all the photos I will take. I think my interest in photography

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-39394088568473316802008-05-01T19:25:00.001+02:002008-05-01T19:25:43.754+02:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } 6/365 - project of the day, originally uploaded by scrappyfran. My afternoon's work!! I made this minialbum as a class to teach on Scrapbook Takeout.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-4520982789008866062008-04-29T23:51:00.001+02:002008-04-29T23:51:11.510+02:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } 5/365 - lunch, originally uploaded by scrappyfran. Did I mention that Lucas and I are dieting? We've been doing really well and my jeans are loose. (Note to self - buy new jeans). We're mostly following the ideas behind the

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-18918851658783347822008-04-29T10:24:00.001+02:002008-04-29T10:24:58.069+02:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } 4/365 - posies, originally uploaded by scrappyfran. I spent some time taking photos of items for my etsy store. i'll be loading these up there soon!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-55160987203361177762008-04-28T00:04:00.001+02:002008-04-28T00:04:45.497+02:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } 3/365 - artichoke, originally uploaded by scrappyfran. A light and healthy dinner tonight, after a weekend of a bit of indulgence!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-7163009925890930122008-04-26T21:07:00.001+02:002008-04-26T21:07:34.493+02:00

2/365 - umbrella sky Originally uploaded by scrappyfranWe went to our first BBQ of the year today. It was sunny, gorgeous and HOT!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-1081907080739411152008-04-25T10:22:00.002+02:002008-04-25T10:30:54.188+02:00

1/365 - starting overOriginally uploaded by scrappyfran View of the Saône River in Vieux Lyon, close to St. Jean

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-51640820109029783492008-04-24T20:15:00.005+02:002008-04-24T20:29:58.944+02:00

In an effort to post more to my blog I am going to make some changes. As you may know I also have a Photography Blog and a Scrapbooking BlogIt's turning out to be too difficult to maintain three blogs (what was I thinking?), along with all of my other committments, so starting from today I will use this blog for usual posts about life in France as well as my photography, and also for crafty posts

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-67449179854754597852008-04-11T11:37:00.003+02:002008-04-11T11:42:03.177+02:00

Why not spread some cheer today and give out awards for things you think are great? I love this idea that I came across on The PlugHe gave out "The Best Thing I've Seen All Day" awards. Pretty awesome!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-52106136527933171022008-04-09T12:54:00.004+02:002008-04-09T13:03:06.796+02:00

We're having some problems with our phone line, so our internet service has been spotty of late. Self-imposed disconnection is bad enough, but when it is not of my own making it feels like I have had an arm or leg amputated. Proving that my dependence on being so connected may not be that good a thing. So I am embracing the disconnect, and exploring other ways of waking up in the morning. In the

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-89876536474862769802008-03-27T11:29:00.002+01:002008-03-27T11:40:36.853+01:00

1. Eleven, 2. Hermit Crab, 3. B R B ... boring life =(, 4. bliss the bird, 5. Living the life!, 6. together, 7. twilight snack, 8. Untitled, 9. Te Amo Te Amo Te Amo Te Amo Te Amo Te Amo, 10. Brazilian Ocelot Cub REDUX, 11. Have a colorful week!, 12. Obama cookie, 13. Untitled, 14. Untitled, 15. Il va faire froid, 16. Untitled, 17. Red Leaf Studios, 18. Rainbow Roses, 19. { ♥ }, 20. Zykko -

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-59568870645101866042008-03-26T22:42:00.008+01:002008-03-26T23:31:16.214+01:00

Lucy has been travelling for the last couple weeks so we hadn't gotten together in a while. Since we had a meeting of the Lyon Canon Group this afternoon we decided to eat lunch together first. Lucas and I are currently on a diet (trying not only to lose some weight, but to eat right) and since going to a restaurant would be too complicated she offer to cook lunch. Well I jumped at the chance of

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-87904323922299086092008-03-17T11:39:00.003+01:002008-03-17T11:48:09.906+01:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; }Really I did! She isn't far away, just to the west of me in Beaujolais. There were blossoms, sunshine and even bees. I expect to see her soon in Lyon

Francinenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-5901222634845543422008-03-14T11:35:00.004+01:002008-03-14T11:42:44.367+01:00

Clicking on the links will take you directly to the photo in flickr1. abandoned - Feb 1, 2. hanging out - Feb 2, 3. new napkins, 4. the saone, 5. list, 6. my, what big whiskers you have!, 7. Spring came early, 8. windows, 9. wise old bird, 10. Wheeeeeee!, 11. iSew, 12. tabletop tartine, 13. purple feet, 14. red velvet, 15. tea and crumpets - what are crumpets anyway?, 16. stripey feet, 17. tea,

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-21280629150230416622008-03-13T17:52:00.002+01:002008-03-13T18:07:15.721+01:00

My friend Paula tagged me last week with the 7 Random Things about you tag, and since I have done it before I decided to change it up a bit.Get used to everything taking 10 times as long and being 10 times as complicated to completeFood is king. Don't try to understand it, just go with the flowRemember to plan your shopping around stores being closed on Sundays and sometimes Mondays and during

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-32452299552679315052008-03-10T20:26:00.004+01:002008-03-10T20:37:30.735+01:00

I will wake up earlier every day. I will not fritter away my time in front of the computer. But I will blog more regularly. No more of this once every two weeks thing. I will exercise. I will drink more water. I won't let the house fall apart around me. I will create something every day. I will plan and use my time wisely.So how are your New Year goals coming along?

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-12889469379899701742008-02-28T12:25:00.003+01:002008-02-28T12:30:25.271+01:00

Happy Anniversary to us!!!!! Journaling: Babe, even though I had to jump over a fire, on a freezing cold and snowy day, with no one from my family there, I wouldn't change a thing!The story behind the jump: When we got back to the house after the ceremony we found everyone out in the street waiting for us. Our neighbour Pierre, was standing next to this weird straw contraption. He explained to

Francinenoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-57349068970663068672008-02-20T13:57:00.004+01:002008-02-20T14:40:45.201+01:00

There's a definite case of the February blahs going around. Lucy and I felt it yesterday and it was a big part of our lunchtime conversation. So we set ourselves a challenge for the last 10 days of the month. Finding all that is good about February and making the most of it.As I mused on this today I remembered one of my faourite books: Romancing the Ordinary by Sarah Ban Breathnach. This is a

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-71356795591082180152008-02-19T21:51:00.003+01:002008-03-27T11:43:14.595+01:00

.flickr-photo { border: solid 2px #000000; }.flickr-yourcomment { }.flickr-frame { text-align: left; padding: 3px; }.flickr-caption { font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px; } mmmm; mmmmm, good!, originally uploaded by scrappyfran. Today was a strange day. It seems as though my week is being all flipped around. I had a great Monday, good mail, bargains in the sales, sunshine and productivity. Not

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-28288098687454456122008-02-14T19:21:00.005+01:002008-02-14T19:35:46.412+01:00

I spent a fair amount of time in the kitchen today. It's been eons since that happened, but I keep meaning to bake some more, and what better day to bake goodies than Valentine's Day? Lucas and I don't make a big deal about this day since our anniversary is in two weeks, but I did want to make him a sweet treat. I posted all about it on my crafty blog but here's a sneak peek.We're invited out

Francinenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-12261852459905996452008-02-11T16:12:00.001+01:002008-02-11T16:12:56.878+01:00

mosaic1191938 Originally uploaded by scrappyfran 1. new napkins, 2. the saone, 3. list, 4. my, what big whiskers you have!, 5. Spring came early, 6. windows, 7. wise old bird, 8. Wheeeeeee!A pictorial capture of the last week. I promise I'll put a post up with words soon!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-44641270457887319242008-02-03T19:46:00.000+01:002008-02-03T20:16:01.508+01:00

Random shots from the last few days. I hope you're enjoying your weekend!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-13201635265393963942008-02-01T19:04:00.000+01:002008-02-01T19:16:15.773+01:00

I'm not sure the origin of this tradition but I remember my mother telling me that if you say "white rabbit" three times on the first of the month, that it brings good luck. And so another month of 2008 begins. And my grace month is over. Now is the time to really put everything into action. I'm ready. I decided that this month I will make a thing a day each day. Most of these will be crafty

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-10462262088531084192008-01-30T22:03:00.001+01:002008-01-30T22:03:42.373+01:00

lyon in the mist Originally uploaded by scrappyfran Or does my mood match the weather? it's one of those chicken and egg puzzles. I kept hoping that the sun would come out eventually and drive the mist away; but no such luck. I was at least motivated enough to take this photo on a brief errand out. This area is right in front of our building; there are actually some Roman ruins, and sadly

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-11514283078767019942008-01-26T14:39:00.001+01:002008-01-26T14:42:14.239+01:00

I'm in trouble now Originally uploaded by scrappyfran Today in the mail I received a packge of 10 free MOO cards, an offer I got when I upgraded my account at Flickr. (By the way the cards rock, I plan to order a full set or two of 100. If you've been thinking about doing this go for it!)In the package was a thank you note with coupon and it said that an additional coupon was inside. I didn't

Francinenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-4566976977879072802008-01-25T21:46:00.000+01:002008-01-25T21:54:52.061+01:00

I could get lost on this photo site. So many beautiful and inspiring images. I get serious camera and photographic envy, but I am also inspired to try new things with my camera. Recently I have been doing a lot of browsing in the Explore section. Every day the people at Flickr choose 500 photos that they refer to as Interestingness. It's really the best way to describe this astonishing collection

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-48963015360133833772008-01-24T18:18:00.000+01:002008-01-24T19:08:33.187+01:00

I mean, nowhere is it written that you're supposed to start doing all the things you plan to do and achieve in the New Year on January 1st. Surely this month is a grace period of planning, getting used to new routines and getting into the groove? I think it would be impossible to start the year off immediately doing everything you've written down as your plan for the New Year. I definitely

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-56015947671188137392008-01-23T19:42:00.000+01:002008-01-26T14:45:44.051+01:00

Met Lucy at Starbucks for coffee and a chat (although I had a Chai Tea Latte)Walked around taking photos Resisted buying crap in the salesHad a delicious lunch accompanied by beerreturned home motivated and inspired4 hours very well spent!Edited: Check out Lucy's perspective on our four hours in the city here.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-43012594822784654052008-01-22T09:35:00.000+01:002008-01-22T10:08:16.073+01:00

We headed down south this past weekend to Aix-en-Provence to celebrate our friend Rachel's birthday. We carpooled with another couple, Mat and Cathy, and Cathy's sweet dog Tygah (seriously the sweetest dog in the world, I am always threatening to steal her.) I'm always happy to go south at this time of year, and just as I hoped the weather was great i.e. I wasn't freezing! Here are some

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-22377006351224038462008-01-04T18:59:00.000+01:002008-01-04T19:26:09.723+01:00

As part of my plan to take more photos this year (yes, even more than I normally take) I decided to do Project 365: Take a photo every day for a year. I normally take way more than 365 photos in any year (for example since Easter I have taken over 7000!), but I definitely don't take a photo every single day. This year I am going to give it my best because I want to see how it will affect my

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-58390399349284509772008-01-03T12:11:00.000+01:002008-01-03T12:29:19.514+01:00

And meilleurs voeux (best wishes) to you as they say here. I am still gathering my thoughts regarding the plans and goals I have for this brand new year, as well as those that we have as a couple. One thing is sure my mantra this year will be ""make it happen" otherwise known as "actually frigging doing it!" (thanks for that phrase Sarah!). In the meantime I leave you with a list of Ten

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-75758258217581578512007-12-26T14:54:00.000+01:002007-12-26T15:13:47.402+01:00

Call us silly, but yesterday our big activity was making a gingerbread house. Lucas had been researching them over the last few weeks, and we even had a blueprint he downloaded, because of course we had to make it from scratch. First step was baking the gingerbread. We used this recipe (which is in French, sorry!) and enlarged the blueprint by 50%. Once baked it looked like this.Then the

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-51865736155769380302007-12-25T18:34:00.000+01:002007-12-25T18:50:00.007+01:00

Wishes for a joyful and lovely day from our home to yours!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-45974723263162512782007-12-24T08:22:00.000+01:002007-12-24T08:46:54.195+01:00

Tonight we celebrate Réveillon with Lucas' family, so the push is on. Yesterday we cooked up a storm, preparing the dishes we are providing. The house smelled delicious, I'm really looking forward to dinner tonight. Today I'll be finishing up and wrapping gifts, and finishing the topping for the cheesecake I made for dessert. I'll also be trying not to go crazy, since I really should have

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-23703020149986409742007-12-19T23:24:00.000+01:002007-12-19T23:27:37.139+01:00

Just a little something to counteract the chilly image I posted earlier.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-17159947932403880412007-12-19T16:32:00.001+01:002007-12-19T16:39:12.777+01:00

I wasn't kiddingQuick snapshot taken at lunch time today at Places Terraux

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-89046860335862787652007-12-19T11:36:00.000+01:002007-12-19T11:47:03.726+01:00

This is my first Christmas ever with a mantel (we don't really have a need for those back home!_ and I am being pretty cheesy with it. I worked a bit yesterday on creating a little Christmas scene. I'm still searching for stocking hooks, and I have one project left to finish up for it later today. Have I mentioned how much I love Christmas?

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-1156784039881364412007-12-18T13:50:00.000+01:002007-12-18T14:01:14.044+01:00

Not the cooking and baking, but the smell of the lasure or lacquer that I am using to finish our dining table at long last. The varnishy smell took me right back to Christmases past, which included a lot of things like refinishing furniture, painting the verandah and steps red, and cleaning everything to within an inch of its life. I think my Mum would be proud of me as I have spent most of the

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-29950487143407308092007-12-17T19:00:00.000+01:002007-12-17T20:26:33.620+01:00

I nipped out this afternoon for a couple of last minute items, and boy, was it freezing! Literally so, it had to be at or below freezing point, my hands felt like ice cubes by the time I walked around the block. I promptly eliminated about half my list (yeah, that means yet another trip out soon!). All I could think about as I faced the wind and slapped my hands together was a hot cup of tea and

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-67738333427290258052007-12-16T12:30:00.000+01:002007-12-16T12:40:59.004+01:00

Fete des Lumieres Lucas' Big Birthday Bash Making progress on the Christmas tree

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-36234365803845635382007-12-07T08:35:00.000+01:002007-12-07T08:43:57.768+01:00

I keep these little critters lined up along the top of my monitor. This is the configuration I found them in this morning.Anyone think Lucas has too much time on his hands? But it's birthday, so I'll let it slide. Happy Birthday honey!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-28425952344997609762007-12-06T17:16:00.000+01:002007-12-06T17:22:41.941+01:00

The tree is in the tree stand. I repeat: the tree is in the tree stand!More to follow......

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-6603917525025930062007-12-05T20:39:00.000+01:002007-12-05T20:45:19.948+01:00

Starbucks comes to Lyon!I predict a lot more coffee in my future!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-24110201202959983802007-12-04T18:09:00.000+01:002007-12-04T18:20:35.432+01:00

As in Tree Day. Our tree has landed! We got it from Ikea at lunch time today on our second attempt. We tried last night but they didn't receive their delivery. I was all excited and then nothing! But now it's here and it's all good. Every year since 2004 we have bought our tree at Ikea because of the program they have in partnership with the forestry department. We return the tree in January and

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-55710017899781205432007-11-22T14:13:00.002+01:002008-04-25T10:28:38.775+02:00

Ok Mother dear, don't totally keel over in shock but I've been eating lots of pumpkin soup! It all started last week when Lucas made a vélouté de potimarron au chataignes - cream of pumpkin and chestnut soup. I was skeptical; but it was delicious (usually the only thing pumpkin I eat are pumpkin pie, pumpkin loaf and pumpkin fritters - all sweet). Last night he made a simple cream of pumpkin soup

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-33916576867656939842007-11-22T00:48:00.000+01:002007-11-22T00:52:57.231+01:00

Sometimes I can't believe what comes out of the kitchen. And this on a night he claimed that he had no ideas, and plus we had nothing to cook. It's a good thing I insisted I didn't want hamburger patties and pasta. I should nag more often.I've mentioned that I'm the luckiest woman in the world right?

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-11004559193167000142007-11-20T17:36:00.000+01:002007-11-20T18:04:16.631+01:00

I didn't even get a chance to talk about Fall. There was Halloween, and then suddenly it seems to be winter. And I am in the Christmas spirit already. Unlike my friends stateside there's no Thanksgiving standing in the way of my favourite holiday of the year. (There is Lucas' birthday on December 7th, but I'm being a bad girl this year and sneaking Christmas stuff in early.) I have even, get this

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-55430834481701570882007-11-16T19:11:00.000+01:002007-11-16T19:13:34.274+01:00

Even when she's being naughty, she's cute.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-88087046557731590042007-11-13T21:04:00.000+01:002007-11-13T21:08:37.369+01:00

Virtual wall paper that is. Tiel of tsk.tsk designed some desktop background wall paper that you can download for free hereTo install click the link for the design you want, and then right click on the image and choose Set as desktop background.Can you guess which one I chose?

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-72376836830272237032007-11-11T18:28:00.000+01:002007-11-11T18:34:35.164+01:00

I put a load of laundry in the dryer and closed the bathroom door to block out the noise. Sat at my computer catching up on some blogs. Thought I heard a kitty meowing, but figured it was just in my head. After a few minutes was sure it was a kitty. Sprang from my seat in panic because I remember Naala being in there with me, and she has been known to climb into the dryer. Opened the door with

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-27660029191367669982007-11-09T22:52:00.000+01:002007-11-09T23:17:31.240+01:00

We just received an order of the soap nuts that we use for laundry, and in time too, since Mount Washmore awaits. We ordered it from a site called Alter Africa which is a site dealing in equitable commerce, and sells a variety of exotic and natural products, some of which are organic.But those styrofoam packing nuts just don't sit right with me, it seems like such a contradiction. Is it just me?

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-85875395278951092082007-11-03T16:56:00.000+01:002007-11-03T19:18:27.165+01:00

I love entertaining!1. candy corn, 2. floating candles, 3. spook me, 4. canapes1, 5. spooky candy, 6. floating candles 2, 7. a black cat & a spider, 8. Mary, 9. kitty love, 10. Halloween caviar, 11. candles, 12. The Chef, 13. huh?, 14. boo, 15. let them eat cake!, 16. canapes 2, 17. candy corn again, 18. before, 19. wine, 20. still more floating candles, 21. after, 22. witchy woman, 23. ding dong

Francinenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-34314431489347492382007-10-28T10:10:00.000+01:002007-10-28T10:17:23.092+01:00

Online crop at Scrapbook TakeoutLunch, and shopping and rambling with LucyAnnual Wine FairClocks going back last night thus gaining an hour - yay!Plans to clean and scrap all day today.What's your weekend like?

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-53650235227241820372007-10-24T11:37:00.000+02:002007-10-24T11:41:22.558+02:00

Halloween!A critical element in my Halloween party planning arrived today.Thanks Vernie!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-40272190436498325732007-10-22T16:36:00.000+02:002007-10-22T16:40:18.009+02:00

Is it any wonder that these days all I want to do all afternoon is curl up on the couch for a nap? Not that there is ever any space for me there!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-74924687403513341612007-10-19T12:11:00.001+02:002008-04-25T10:29:22.863+02:00

Lucas: ¨Hon, what would you like for dinner, I don't have any ideas?¨Me:¨How about poireau pie?¨Lucas: ¨Nah, I don't feel like making that¨Me:¨well, that's my only idea, so you can make whatever you feel like¨Lucas: ¨ok, but I don't have any ideas¨An hour later I'm presented with thisGotta love that man!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-26783291331258440262007-10-18T14:29:00.000+02:002007-10-18T15:02:01.160+02:00

Some quick photos I took yesterday evening while walking from one end of Rue de la Republic to the other. This street is the large pedestrian only shopping area in Lyon, and stretches from Place Bellecour at one end, to the Town Hall and Opera house at the other. It's one of my favourite places to stroll, people watch and take city photos.1. dichotomy 2, 2. dichotomy, 3. shoes glorious shoes, 4.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-34306592284984553052007-10-15T22:46:00.001+02:002008-04-25T10:27:23.711+02:00

Today, October 15th, is Blog Action Day. It's a day when bloggers are encouraged to post about a specific issue. This year the issue is the environment, a topic that is near and dear to my heart. One of the things I love about living in Europe is that I can now practice all the actions I used to teach about back when I worked with hotels. We recycle plastic, paper, metal and glass. We use compact

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-26222879304309883762007-10-13T18:35:00.000+02:002007-10-13T18:40:25.285+02:00

It's not my fault though, they just keep doing cute things!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-33227604379490745682007-10-10T15:30:00.000+02:002007-10-10T18:11:56.849+02:00

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-1878140605184753332007-10-08T20:05:00.000+02:002007-10-08T20:07:34.931+02:00

I made an amazing discovery today. I get more done when I actually write down my To Do list, instead of just keeping it all in my head and trusting my less than perfect memory. Who would have thunk it? Hope this Monday was productive for you too!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-59633329598359695122007-10-04T07:13:00.000+02:002007-10-04T08:07:17.749+02:00

I've been out of bed for about two hours (!!!)But it's still dark and that really depresses meI'm working all day at a craft expoReally looking forward to the weekend so I can kick back a little after a crazy weekThe kittens seem to think I'm a tree and are climbing up my legs. Ouch!Grateful for some relatively warm Fall days of lateThe apartment is a wreck - maybe I won't be kicking back that

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-50724252130591610042007-09-28T16:15:00.000+02:002007-09-28T16:35:56.642+02:00

The leaves changing coloursMozie spending more time inside than outI bought new socks last weekDrinking tea every eveningThe rain and dampNo more dresses and skirtsSunrise is later and sunset is earlierMaking sure sweaters are clean and accessibleTurning the lights on earlierA sudden urge for soup and roasted meats with potatoesGoing outside less and less

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-63779470582716189432007-09-27T19:45:00.000+02:002007-09-27T19:56:51.264+02:00

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-50701464105094543522007-09-23T20:16:00.000+02:002007-09-23T20:22:41.099+02:00

Francinenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-72112104009847859412007-09-22T17:41:00.000+02:002007-09-22T18:03:30.096+02:00

Why I love living in a big cityThe restaurants, the cultureThanks to the metro I don't have to deal with traffic and I can go anywhere I wantThe anonymity - If I go out not looking my best I don't give a damn because I'll never see these people again! And nobody is minding my business!The city lightsThe shoppingMeeting people from all over the worldWhat I miss about small island lifeSunshine all

Francinenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-70248990223142139792007-09-21T22:53:00.000+02:002007-09-21T23:19:56.446+02:00

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-68297410130049457882007-09-20T16:39:00.001+02:002008-04-25T10:33:34.790+02:00

I'm "sending" these after the trip is over, which is typical of me really. We spent a few days in Provence soaking up the sun, visiting with family and hanging out with friends. I've said this before, but I love this region of France and would really love to move there.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-56916714802963991162007-09-10T21:24:00.000+02:002007-09-10T21:29:38.663+02:00

This past weekend we attended the wedding of Lucas' cousin Adeline in Haute Savoie. Even though I'd never met her or her fiance Sebastian before I was really moved by of the outpouring of love we saw from their friends and family. This was a relatively small and lovely event, and I also got the chance to spend more time with my mother-in-law's side of the family, which doesn't happen too often. I

Francinenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-19889211683626953682007-09-05T21:08:00.000+02:002007-09-05T21:15:05.518+02:00

I've been getting into a nice routine lately and waking up earlier and earlier every day and getting more done. Yay for me. But it's become painfully obvious that I need to include some exercise in my schedule, because I am totally wiped out by 8 or 9 p.m. Like clockwork. I know that the cure for this is exercise, but as they say the hardest part is getting started. I know that it will make me

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-11963179746886258452007-09-02T21:28:00.001+02:002007-09-02T21:30:10.387+02:00

Aug 29 - new Originally uploaded by scraphappyfran So the big news around here lately is that the cats now outnumber the humans. Naala had these three cuties earlier this week. We're frantically trying to find them homes before we get too attached. Luckily all they are doing right now is sleeping, eating and squealing, but as soon as they start to walk, play and cuddle we'll be in trouble.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-82420649831427811692007-09-01T13:28:00.000+02:002007-09-01T13:29:24.040+02:00

A little laundryA little cleaningBakeParty-on!ScrapScrapScrapScrapad infinitum

Francinenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-2599641707926573922007-08-31T20:13:00.000+02:002007-08-31T20:24:29.716+02:00

Every day this month I took a photo to capture something about our everyday life. I have them all loaded on my photo blog, but I'm sharing this mosaic of the 31 photos (which I made courtesy of Flickr and this mosiac maker).1. Aug 1 - lucky kitty, 2. Aug 2 - work in progress, 3. Aug 3 - cheesecake fixings, 4. Aug 4 - out with the old, 5. Aug 5 - in with the new, 6. Aug 6 - refreshing, 7. Aug 7 -

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-55869256924806570492007-08-27T11:53:00.002+02:002008-04-25T10:29:50.558+02:00

Flea market funFlea market findsBBQ pizzaScraphappy

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-64173751914393117042007-08-25T19:31:00.000+02:002007-08-25T19:57:05.376+02:00

I think it probably takes about a year to really settle into a new place. Here we are eight months into it and still adding, removing, and rearranging. Today's cleaning frenzy came about because of an impending visit from friends (which has been moved to tomorrow, but I digress), but also because of my recent desire to reorganise and use the living room space better. We (1) lost a shelf (moved it

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-54082897287490975092007-08-11T21:59:00.000+02:002007-08-11T22:25:15.815+02:00

Living with someone who loves to cook means that even everyday meals become special. We had a friend spending a couple nights here on her way through Lyon during her vacation, and when Lucas asked us if a salad and fried potatoes sounded good for dinner, we certainly didn't expect to be presented with this.That's smoked trout in the salad, and the potatoes, known as ratte, are from my in-laws'

Francinenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-47925849275965863632007-08-09T18:38:00.000+02:002007-08-09T19:39:19.517+02:00

Well the vacation is over. Lucas is back at work and my Mum has left (although her vacation continues in London for a while longer). It's time for me to get refocused. In theory that means regular blog posts (also on my Designs and Photo blogs), regular scrapping and crafting, as well as spending time pulling together some sort of business plan for my life.It's been about a year since the first

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-69333797860115870662007-08-06T17:20:00.000+02:002007-08-06T20:57:59.128+02:00

Mum and I made plans to meet Lucy for lunch in Lyon today. We wanted to go the l'Arbre à Thé, a quaint and cosy cafe and Salon de Thé, but they were closed. So were our second and third options (this is very likely to happen on Mondays in France, even more so during August!). We were already running late so decided to just meet at the metro stop and then try to decide where to go. On her way

Francinenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-30366845512902718962007-08-03T15:02:00.000+02:002007-08-03T15:09:25.713+02:00

We are back in Lyon after a wonderful ten days in Haute Loire. The festival was amazing, five days of music, theatre, dance and art, and I even slept in a tent on Saturday night! If you know anything about me, you know that camping is not my thing, so this is a momentous occasion people! I have well over 1000 photos of the performances as well as the "everyday" moments and can't wait to scrap

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-33251050365128075522007-07-20T17:30:00.000+02:002007-08-03T15:10:36.828+02:00

We've been back in Lyon since Tuesday night, resting up from our hectic tour of Paris. Initially we planned to leave on Thursday to head to Aix-en-Provence in the South of France for two days, but I have been busy finishing up and sending off this and Lucas has been working on last minute details for the Festival du Riou. It hasn't been all work however. Yesterday we had a picnic lunch, visited

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-28054756782074446242007-07-17T11:05:00.002+02:002008-04-25T10:33:07.036+02:00

Mum is resting up while Lucas and I make a visit to the Musee d'Orsay. Yesterday we managed to get three visits in: the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. We stood in the middle of the Champs Elysees to get photos of the Arc!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-46443407069463410452007-07-15T18:38:00.001+02:002007-07-15T18:45:50.631+02:00

The two hour wait in the long line in the scorching sun was definitely worth it!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-12777565727656696652007-07-14T23:16:00.001+02:002007-07-14T23:34:47.494+02:00

My mum has come over to visit for three weeks and we are starting her trip in the city of lights. Here is a photo summary of the last two days Today is Bastille day so we have seen fireworks as wzll as parades. Tomorrow we head to Versailles!

Francinenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-8400613211156965662007-07-09T11:03:00.001+02:002007-07-09T11:20:25.265+02:00

I go back and forth between what I consider to be my favourite flower. Roses are of course a classic favourite, and I love their perfume. But daffodils make me happy because they mean that Spring is here. Daisies are cheerful and lilies are lovely, and you can't beat a hibiscus for tropical beauty. But this weekend I was reminded just how much gerberas excite me.

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-1975003469069248242007-07-08T13:53:00.000+02:002007-07-08T16:22:42.803+02:00

With the hot days we've been having lately (although it's raining today, but hopefully that will be temporary), I have been craving fresh cool meals. And Lucas, bless him, is more than up to the task.Cantaloupe melon with liquor and smoked ham, followed by a tomato and feta salador fig and rocamadour sandwiches with a fresh green salad.Then I discovered this blog, Smitten Kitchen , with this

Francinenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18237659.post-45878417978251617552007-06-26T20:43:00.001+02:002007-06-27T09:11:41.547+02:00

  We find her on top the stereo equipment, behind the TV or lying on our keyboards all the time. Maybe it's because they are warm? We even had to move the dsl box from on top the DVD player because it was falling down all the time. We also spent about two weeks thinking our TV was about to croak because the sound was going in and out. We slapped the heck out of the thing until one day we realised

Francinenoreply@blogger.com3