Apres Le Beep

Le Dragon Bleu

2009-12-17T02:31:00.000-08:00

Robert Lepage's new performance piece, "Le Dragon Bleu" couldn't have been more visually stunning then it was. Every minute detail was thought out, from sets, to make-up to costuming to lighting. It has a very poetic grace about it.

The story is the last in a trilogy about the Asian community that migrated to Canada (where Lepage is from) - and how ethnic lines are blurred, and national allegiances dulled. Old and new cultures blend, a baby is born that is now half Asian/Half Canadian.

I felt privileged to experience something as beautiful as this; someone else's vision...

Snowing in Paris

2009-12-17T02:27:00.000-08:00

Pulled up the blinds this morning to discover a beautiful blanket of white. Yesterday it was such a mild, sunny day, that I just didn't believe the reports of possible snow.
This trip is a bit different than the others in the past, as I have a steady stream of visitors this year. So just a few days more of "alone" time, and then lots of hoopla in the apartment.
Feels great to be back in Paris.

Istanbul

2009-12-02T06:57:00.001-08:00

Spent 6 glorious days in Istanbul; my first trip to Turkey. Felt much more like being in the Middle East than in Europe; The call to prayer over loudspeakers all over the city 5 times a day was very moving; but no where in Europe have I heard something like that before.

Now back in paris for 6 weeks; beautiful, magical Paris...

Heading Back

2009-09-17T00:21:00.000-07:00

Can hardly wait to be back in Paris, although this time I am first going to Istanbul, a place I've never been to, but only hear amazing things about. Mosques, bazaars, spices, textiles - a new adventure in a foreign land. Then 5 happy weeks in Paris, staying in anl apartment overlooking the Beaubourg. What could be better? Nine weeks and counting until I hop that plane....

Summer In Los Angeles

2009-08-12T01:10:00.000-07:00

Stayed in Los Angeles this summer with my daughter graduating from high school, and getting ready to go off to college. Big transition for both of us; her off to new experiences in a new city, and me, becoming an empty nester. It's been a quiet summer, though it seemed to fly by, with only a few weeks left until I take her back east to deposit her in her dorm.

And so my own plans are now taking shape; this year when I return to Paris for the month of December, I will first head to Istanbul for new adventure, and a little taste of the exotic. I look forward to being back in Paris; especially looking forward to spending time with my friends, the cold weather, and working in a foreign land.

Headed Back Home

2009-01-06T16:31:00.000-08:00

How quickly time flies. I've been in paris already for a month, and fly back home to Los Angeles tomorrow. But I leave Paris very satisfied, as always, going home with a piece of this city in my heart. The true friendships I have made here only deepen; I cherish them greatly. The work I have accomplished and the inspiration this city has provided has been enormous. The long walks down streets that host the most buildings that are nothing less than candy to the eyes, the cafes, the exhibitions - even the metro rides, shopping sprees and bookstores, the conversations and dinners and parties...

I go home with a full heart, with gratitude, and enough work in my portfolio to start the new year right.

A bientot.

A Rare Day

2009-01-06T16:25:00.000-08:00

Snow in Paris is a rare happening, but I was lucky enough to awaken to a surprising day filled with snow flurries. They didn't stick much to the streets, which became more of a slushy mess in the gutters, but instead blanketed the parks and buildings and trees in a veil of white. It was a beautiful sight.
It made me feel happy. I think it was an omen, that this year is going to be filled with new and unusual things...

Living in Paris

2009-01-02T08:33:00.000-08:00

I have to say that living in Paris is a very different experience than visiting Paris. I have been renting apartments here for over a year now, for anywhere from one month to 3 1/2 months at a time, and I have worked with a company called Paris Attitude, that I happened upon on the internet. I have to say that each and every apartment (now in my 4th apartment), has been exactly as they show it to be on their website. I have worked with Caroline Cremades, who I finally met about 6 months ago, and can't imagine working with anyone but her - she's just been terrific in making everything flow very easily.

So for any of you thinking of traveling to this part of the world, do take a look at their website...

Change in Plans

2008-12-29T10:51:00.000-08:00

My daughter Kate text messaged me on Thursday and wrote, "Is the offer still on the table for me to join you in Paris?" So of course, within 24 hours, I had my daughter packing her bag and flew her out to be with me here in Paris. Before she goes off to college this summer, I know that these are truly the last moments I have to really spend long spans of quality time with her, so I am delighted she came. It changes the dynamics of my last 10 days in Paris, but that's what spontaneity is all about.

I'm so glad she's here, and we have this time together, in the most beautiful city in the world.

Mon Anniversaire

2008-12-22T09:12:00.001-08:00

Today is my birthday, yet another one celebrated in Paris. Had a wonderful day doing just the things I wanted to do, and this evening friends are stopping by to see my new apartment, and then taking me out to a new thai restaurant. It's a crazy short week, with Christmas landing in the middle (and Chanukah's already here!). Christmas eve I know will be lovely, spent with a friend's family (which I adore) and some of their friends, and on Christmas I am going to the ballet, to see an homage to Maurice Bejart - what could be better?

My time in Paris always seems to pass quickly - I guess that's a good thing - it means I am busy and certainly am enjoying my time here as always. After Christmas I hope to disappear for a few days and slow everything down by concentrating on work; hibernating with my computer and just drawing away....

Seeing A New Part of Paris

2008-12-19T10:27:00.000-08:00

Every day in Paris doesn't have to hold some earth shattering event - sometimes just walking a new street or discovering a new gargoyle is enough. Today it was a new chocolate shop in the 9th, called Etoile d"Or (new to me). The owner, Denise Acabo, a look alike to Pippi Longstocking, was genuinely enthusiatic about her caramels and chocolates, particularly the Bernachon chocolate only her store carries, all the way from Lyon. Afterwards, a friend walked me around the 9th arr., an area I really hadn't discovered before, and it was just a charming, revitalized area, filled with fabulous little patisseries and all kinds of marvelous shops. Strolling sown some residential streets, I happened upon this door knocker (the photo above), and I couldn't help but be charmed by it. A small inconsequential detail, yet so very beautiful.

I am touched by the small things in life these days. Not by the grand gifts, or the things we can own, but by the beautiful things we can take in with our eyes & the amazing people who grace my life.

Landed in Paris

2008-12-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

Finally arrived. Arrived with no luggage. Other than the fact that I was traveling with some of my most expensive clothes, I thought, ok, doesn't matter, I'm in Paris. Turns out another Parisian mistakenly took my luggage, and returned it to me this evening, so all is in place. And I am back in Paris. To be with friends, to be inspired for work, to let life take a different pace.

I am back in Paris

Headed Back To Paris

2008-12-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

Can't believe how quickly the days are passing, and I am on that long flight back to Paris in just 5 days. Before I leave I decided to have an all girls bash at my home, women celebrating women and enjoying the holidays together before my departure.

But I can already imagine my life again in Paris; waking up late to those cold winter mornings, planning a day of which art shows to see, or what streets to walk for inspiration in stores for work, what friends to meet in a cafe, or new metro adventure to take. Shopping down the row of stores on Franc Bourgeois for fruit and meat and cheese and wine. Long walks in the cold with my scarf to keep my neck warm. Savoring shopping in Les Halles for inspiration for new textile designs.

And of course, feeling the holidays spirit and talking in the decorations in such a beautiful setting as Paris.

Can't wait.

Billboards on Sunset Strip

2008-11-20T22:10:00.000-08:00

One of the things unique to my neighborhood in Los Angeles are all of the billboards that line the Sunset Strip. They are truly fantastic, not only because of their massive size, but also because of the wonderful colorful visual assault on your senses that takes place as you drive by. It makes the mile drive area just come alive.

The Daily Mood in Los Angeles

2008-11-19T09:30:00.000-08:00

Now That Barack Obama has won the election, he is most definitely rebranding America’s imagine Internationally once again to the status we once held, and that’s so very important to those of us who deeply care about about the country we leave behind for our children. The cowboy rodeo days are gone. But the American economic system has gone into a state of shock, and if we look back at such leaders as FDR, it was his calm and belief in hope that made people trust that things would get better, even when nothing in the economy was actually being stimulated. I think that’s where we are right now. There’s an interesting book out by Jonathan Alter called “The Defining Moment” that Barack Obama and his team have been reading, and I have just picked it up myself, to try and understand (since I did not live through the depression of ‘33), just what it was like, and how FDR handled his first 100 days in office in with such a devastating economy at hand.

On a personal level, much of life here seems to have come to a halt, especially for those of us who were successful in business. Today there is no business to be had, or if there is, it’s sure slim pickings. Our days are filled with many more hours, now hours where we pace and have to figure out what to do with them - hours that used to be filled with gratifying and satisfying work. We can’t go shopping, because we have no extra cash to spend. We eat out with friends less, because it’s cheaper to stay in and eat at home. We try to spend more time reading, but our concentration is shot because we worry about when our next job will come in.

Yesterday, after twiddling my thumbs for the past 6 weeks, work finally happened my way, and I savored it. It felt like such a gift. But now the work is complete and back in the client's hands. So now I wait again for the next job.

And in the meantime, I think I will spend the afternoon at the movies....

Yes We Can!

2008-11-05T11:24:00.000-08:00

Today I am so very proud today to be an American.

Living on the Edge of My Seat

2008-11-02T07:56:00.000-08:00

Tuesday this country votes in a new President. That's only 2 days away. I am living on the edge of my seat. It has been one of the most extraordinary campaign races in our history, and the outcome will be pivotal. 85% of Americans believe the country is on the wrong track. The nerve endings of this country are utterly exposed.

We are in the worst of times. We will be in even deeper trouble if this country gets this election wrong. I am on pins and needles.

Obama MUST win on tuesday.

Heading Back To the City of Lights on Dec 10th

2008-10-22T20:47:00.000-07:00

In just about 6 more weeks, I am heading back to Paris; it is always a slow haul to resettle into my life here when I return, and then once I do, how quickly time flies and then I'm back on a 12 hour flight to Paris.

It's an interesting time to be in the U.S. - the bad economy is palpable; even though we are all trying not to panic, under our breath everyone is hoping for a sale, or another job to come in (for those of us who are freelancers), and NO ONE is wearing a new dress or carrying a new handbag. Stores feel empty, reservations at restaurants are easy to get, and even grocery stores have signs out that on certain days they offer discounts.

Politics, and the fear of who will be in the White House next is also a constant topic of conversation, and it is hard to imagine when you are living in the liberal community of Los Angeles that there is any level-headed being out there who could possibly vote republican having lived through the past 8 years... and yet believe it or not, yes, we do very much still have to worry about who will be elected.

I will be in Paris this time for only a month, and it will be a very special visit for me, because it may be my last trip until next September, 2009. I need to be in the States for my daughter who is graduating from high school this year, get her off to college by next August. It will give me the time to think out what I want for myself as of next September, when I become an empty nester (no more kids in the house) - and how many months I want to live in each city (L.A./NY/Paris) - something I have been toying with for a long time now.

So in the meantime, my 2 vices in life - money and men - seem to be running their course yet again, economy and money are terrible, and men, well, I can't seem to figure them out, at least not the ones who seem to enter my life - so it is time for me to leave town and re-evaluate. my son refers to them in my life as the M-2's.

On a final note, I need to find a REALLY good book to sink my teeth into on the airplane - anyone have a good book to recommend?

Look forward to being back soon. xxo

Back in Los Angeles

2008-07-21T19:12:00.000-07:00

After spending almost 2 months in Paris, I am finally back on this continent. It's been a strange return, feeling a little displaced, but I most definitely appreciate sleeping in my own bed, the stillness of the night, and the size of the space i live in. I'm sure given a few days to settle in and better sleep habits, it'll feel like home in no time. However, I miss those very special relationships I have made in Paris, and am also already missing Louie. Au revoir until December.

Kusama

2008-07-15T15:02:00.001-07:00

Tonight I went with a bunch of friends to Le Parc de la Villette to see the Yayoi Kusama installation. The site was originally a meat market & slaughterhouse, but in 1982, was turned into a cultural center.
The building itself is really quite impressive, and walking into the Kusama show just added to the pleasure.

For those that are unfamiliar with her, she is a japanese artist, born in 1929, that has struggled with mental illness. Early in her career, she began covering surfaces (walls, floors, etc) with the polka dots that would become a trademark of her work. The vast fields of polka dots, or "infinity nets," as she calls them, were taken directly from her hallucinations. By covering spaces with the “infinity nets”, she creates almost an entire obliteration of the space.

Today she lives, by choice, in a mental hospital in Tokyo, where she has continued to produce work.

And last, but not least, it was a great evening with some truly wonderful friends. We went for a bite to eat after seeing the exhibit at the cafe on the premises, basking in the sun until it finally went out of sight, and then took a long walk down to stalingrad, where we sat by the canal and had a drink, just enjoying the company of one another.

I am already beginning to miss Paris.

Center Court

2008-07-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

Not a big sports fan, but watching Nadal vs. Federer, one of the great rivalries in tennis, will probably go down as one of the best matches in history. I was on the edge of my seat for the entire match. Nadal is the only man to beat Federer in a slam final, and the French Open and Wimbledon haven't been won by the same player in the same year in 28 years, since Bjorn Borg. A truly memorable moment, the longest game in history...

Katrin

2008-07-04T01:48:00.000-07:00

I first met Katrin at a dinner party at my friends Richard & Vincent's apartment, now almost a year ago, and there was a presence about her that I found intriguing; she wasn't aloof, but an observer of what was going on in the room; she was attractive, very bright, and I knew I wanted to get to know her. So we exchanged e-mails and numbers, and I called to get together with her a few days later. My intuitions were correct; she is smart, low key, self-assured, introspective, and so it also turns out, an amazing photographer. I have been deeply blessed by the friendships I have made in Paris, and just hope to know Katrin and her family for a very long time...

I decided it was time to post her website of her work on my blog - you will be blown away by her abilities

www.katrinbaumann.com

Paris Is On Sale!

2008-06-27T06:40:00.000-07:00

I haven't written on my blog for a few days, for not only did my daughter arrive in Paris (and has been keeping me and my credit cards VERY busy), but the city of Paris went on sale on the 25th of June. With teenagers in tow, we have just about devoured every bargain to be had. Somehow, the girls (Kate and her friend Leah) had me in stores and on the streets for 7 hours straight - and my body (and wallet) are feeling crippled ever since.

There was a light at the end of the tunnel to all this shopping - I splurged for an exquisite pair of ed hardy shoes for myself (yes! they were on sale). Of course I'll have to wait for my feet to stop aching to be able to wear them...

The Thing About Paris

2008-06-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

There are many things to love about Paris. Besides being the most beautiful city in the world, I think I love it most for its' accessibility. If I want to go to the Beaubourg, it's an 8 minute walk; Hop the metro and I'm in St Germain in 10 minutes, at the Sacre Coeur in 15, and in between all of these destinations, the city never stops exuding its' sense of style and grace. When the sun is shining, everyone is out in cafes, where I can lounge for an hour or so, sipping on coffee and people watch. Parks are everywhere, some even wi-fi compatible.

But most all of, the city's accessibilty, coupled with the friends I have here, are what make Paris home.

Annie Liebovitz

2008-06-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

Sundays are usually laundry & cleaning day - the day I am not seen in public, staying in my sweats all day. But the weather was so beautiful again, that I put on a dress and heels, and decided to go see the Annie Liebovitz exhibition over to the Maison Européenne de la Photographie. It turned out to be a gem of a show. I was in awe of her talent, the way she captured the spirit of each subject in her photographs, that I kept coming back to some of them, they were so mesmorizing. The images stuck in my mind so much today, that I plan to go back for a second viewing. The photograph attached is quite small and may be hard to read, but it is of Nicole Kidman.

Valentino

2008-06-21T09:08:00.000-07:00

The weather in Paris today is so gorgeous, that it was a day to definitely spend outdoors. I first headed up Rue de Rivoli to WH Smith, and quickly bought my New York magazine (I was having withdrawals and needed my fix!) - all the while trying very hard not to be caught up in all of the new books I wanted to peruse. Heading across the street, I landed in the Tuilleries, a perfect place to be on a day like today. But I promised myself a little eye candy, and so I headed through the Tuilleries down to the Valentino exhibition at Les Arts Decoratifs. My God, what a treat!

Despite working in the fashion industry, I must admit that I am not as familiar with Valentino's work as I am some other designers. So it was a pleasure to be so taken aback by the details and textiles that were so exquisitely draped. And craftsmanship - well, like no other. There wasn't a single work that wasn't jaw dropping - and his understanding of the female figure was as good as it gets.

It was worth giving up a bit of the outdoors to see the show.

But wait, there's more. I ended up meeting a friend and walking over to sit in the palais royal gardens, then lunched at an outdoor cafe, then ran into another friend, who I spent gallivanting around the streets of Paris with, until my feet were tired, the sweat was dripping, and all I could think of was hopping in a cold shower.

Oh what a glorious day.

Inspiration

2008-06-19T00:38:00.000-07:00

So much new inspiration here - so I thought I'd post a few of my new designs...

A Few Days of Fun

2008-06-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

Past few days have been loads of fun...

First chinatown - Tang Freres - a huge asian market that you could just peruse for hours - and I did just that! It was really fun to just walk around the area, with all their junk shops, but surprisingly, since my eye is always trained to find something inspiring for my work, I actually came across some images that you would never have guessed, but prompted several new prints for my portfolio. So a good day at work...

Then had a fabulous day with a girlfriend, who took me to an old time and well known moroccan restaurant, where I was not only grateful for the use of a fork (since at the well known moroccan restaurant in Los Angeles, called Dharma Greb, you eat with your hands), but also grateful to have the luxury of spending such a glorious day with her. After lunch we went back to the Marais and spoiled ourselves at Le Loir dans le Theiere, where we indulged in a sky high lemon meringue tart and coffee.

Then had dinner with another girlfreind, who always takes me to someplace offbeat and interesting in Paris. So we started out with dinner at a noodle restaurant she turned me onto last year over by Opera, and then took me out to the Stalingrad canal, where I had never been before, giving me a little history of some of the buildings, while sitting along the canal having a drink until well past midnight.

Today I met up with an old girlfriend from San Francisco who's in town; her first trip back to Paris in 27 years. So I took her over to Les Halles, an area she had not yet discovered, and we dined on good pasta and old times. Strolled around for the day, and ended up at Les Deux Magots for a mille feuille and a coffee, and then came back to the Marais so we could relax at my place, and the next thing we knew it was 5:30.

With times like these, Paris really begins to feel like home...

Sunday In The Park With Me

2008-06-15T13:02:00.001-07:00

On Sunday the weather was just glorious in Paris, so I took the metro up to see the Richard Serra installation at the Grand Palais. For those that don’t know the Grand Palais - a little bit of history, because it’s a fascinating building:

It was built in 1900 for the World’s Fair, and is currently the largest existing ironwork and glass structure in the world.

Caught up in the torment of two World Wars, the building provided accommodation for the wounded troops of the Great War as a makeshift military hospital, but was also used for Nazi propaganda during World War II.

In September of 1914, the Grand Palais was transformed into a military hospital. Gradually, the whole building was given over to this task, with a thousand beds, and two operating theatres.

However, the darkest hours of the Grand Palais were still to come in the shape of World War II. In the hands of the German occupants, the Grand Palais was requisitioned to act as a truck depot and then housed two exhibitions devoted to Nazi propaganda.

Today, it is used for exhibitions.

The Serra artwork was perfectly cited in the space, and as you can see from the photos, the space is so magnificent, that I could have sat there all day, if I didn’t have more on my agenda for the day.

Sundays definitely call for a stroll through the Tuilleries, and ended up at the Bibliotheque Nationale off of Rue de Richelieu to see the Sophie Calle exhibit.

Threw in a few errands on my way home, including buying a really cute pair of espadrilles, and then saw the film, "The Children of Huang Shi."

My day ended with dinner with a friend at a Korean barbecue restaurant and a game of Quiddler...

Best Tour In Town

2008-06-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

Almost a year ago I had the good fortune of meeting Richard Nahem, an ex-New Yorker who moved to Paris in 2005. We became fast and furious friends, in great part because you will never meet anyway with a greater heart than his. He started a tour company called Eye Prefer Paris, and customizes tours to your desires. You can always go to the Louvre, or take the elevator up the Eiffel Tower, but do you know where the best food market is, or where the discount clothing hide-aways can be found? He will most assuredly show you a part of Paris you would never have discovered on your own. He writes a blog at www.eyepreferparis.com, and you can check out his tours at eyepreferparistours.com. Since almost ithe inception of Eye Prefer Paris, Richard's tours have been in demand. If you're coming to Paris for a short stay, trust me, consider one of his tours - you're in for a treat...

Lazy Day

2008-06-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if it's because I am living the life of leisure while in Paris, or if I'm just getting old, but I kept thinking today was Friday, even though it was only Thursday. Another migraine took my day away, but through the overcast skies and a sudden downpour of rain, there did appear some sunshine, and so I set out and took a short walk over to sit in the Place des Vosges, to get a little fresh air for my head. Paris is so civilized in how much land it has kept in the city for parks, that when you're feeling under the weather, you always know you can find a peaceful place under a tree...

Idiosyncrasies

2008-06-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

I’m sure we Americans have our idiosyncrasies as a culture, but I am convinced that the idiosyncrasies of the French outdo ours.

I sat down on a park bench on Sunday, enjoying the weather and a little break from all of my errands. No one else was on the long bench but me, and I was sitting on the end. About 10 minutes into my nice quiet time, a french woman, a little younger than myself, approached me and asked me to move over. I pointed out to her that to my right the entire bench was empty, and she could sit anywhere she liked, and she replied, “no, i want to sit where you are sitting.” Go figure that one out. I kid you not!

Walking Along The Seine

2008-06-10T04:43:00.000-07:00

Along the Seine, up by the Pont Neuf, there is a stretch of beautiful flower shops, intermixed with pet stores (that's where I found Louie, my goldfish). All the plants and flowers are pulled out onto the sidewalk, and walking down the street in this beautiful sunny 80 degree weather, amongst the greenery and vibrant colors was really such a treat. I ended up getting some greenery for Louie's fishbowl - I felt he needed some ambience. If I wasn't battling a migraine, I would say it was almost a perfect day.

Life In Paris

2008-06-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

Tennis can be a pleasure to watch, but being in Paris during the French Open makes it even that much more exciting, despite the fact that I am only watching it on tv. Today is the match between Federer and Nadal, ranked #1 & #2, and together they really make you appreciate true skill and talent.

My first week back in Paris was great, even with the very touch and go overcast & rainy weather. Back to life as "le flaneur" - the stroller; long lunches with friends in cafes, enjoying the decadence of going to the vegetable market, and boucherie, fromagerie and le magasin du vin - just to compose a dinner, ending with the patisserie. each shop so specialized, everything feels like a gift.

This coming week holds more cafe lunches and strolls, and dinner at one of my favorite noodle shops with a wonderful friend. Also going to see the Traces of the Sacred show at the Pompidou, and the Sophie Calle show at the Bibliotheque Nationale. Calle's lover apparently broke up with her in an e-mail, and not knowing quite how to respond, she decided to put the question out there to over 100 women in different professions, and the show is the result of all of the responses she received. The piece was apparently exhibited at the Venice Biennale. Reminds me of Sex and the City, when Berger broke up with Carrie on a post-it. The things we endure...

Oh, and by the way, Nadal took the title...

Fits Like an Old Glove

2008-06-05T00:35:00.000-07:00

On the outside wall of the BHV department store there is this 3 dimensional landscaping that would be interesting enough if it was on the ground and on a horizontal plane, but the fact that the landscaping is vertical (and doesn't fall off onto your head!) is not only facinating but utterly beautiful. There is a second wall I know of done by the same landscape architect up by the Tour Eiffel, but I have yet to discover who the designer is.

The city is still as beautiful as ever, and because in Los Angeles I live so much in my car, it is very refreshing to be back out on the streets, walking everywhere. Seeing old friends, making new friends... visiting old haunts, and discovering new ones. Almost a week has gone by - hope time slows down a bit.

I'm Back!

2008-06-03T00:19:00.000-07:00

The travel between Los Angeles and Paris seems to be getting longer and more arduous, but I am happily back in Paris. Nothing but heartwarming welcomes from friends. Arrived at the apartment, staying long enough to just drop my bags, and headed over to Richard and Vincent's where they had breakfast waiting for me. It was a beautiful day, so we walked along the Seine to "pet row", where I happily purchased my fish, named Louis. Glad I have him, he's actually quite funny -and although he is well fed, if you put your finger just slightly at the water's edge, he comes up and "kisses" it. Our relationship is already blossoming.

The apartment in the 4th arrondisement is quite lovely, and it's been fun roaming the cobblestone streets again. Lots going on this week, looking forward to being out in the country at a friend's house for the weekend...

A Bientot

2008-01-07T09:13:00.000-08:00

Time to say a bientot to Paris.

Headed back to Los Angeles on Wednesday - the long 12 hour day on the plane is a time of reflection for me; a time to change gears from one lifestyle to another.

Always a mixed bag, sad when I leave Paris, sad when I leave Los Angeles. I guess that's a good thing, now having people I care about on both continents.

Mark, Richard, Vincent, Avis & Katrin - I will be thinking of you until I return, and know, that I will miss you all very much.

Bisous...

Beauty

2007-12-16T22:10:00.000-08:00

Was meeting a friend for dinner, so I took the metro over to my exit, and as soon as I got up the stairs to the street, I was confronted by the beautiful Opera building, lit up at night. Never wonder why I love living in Paris.

Finding Something Beautiful in the News

2007-12-10T12:15:00.001-08:00

Whether reading an American or French newspaper, the information in both is pretty much all the same, glum commentaries on our world.

Headlines today: Sarkozy welcoming Qaddafi to Paris - did I read that right? Did Sarkozy forget that Quaddafi was a state terrorist? And then the CIA, destroying the tapes of their terrorism interrogations - gee, that comes as a surprise.

But there was joy to be had. In the article about the CIA's destruction of the tapes, the writer referred to The White House, and I had never thought about it before, but in French it is called La Maison Blanche.

Ok, at least something in the news sounds beautiful...

Palais de Tokyo

2007-12-08T12:30:00.001-08:00

A windy, wet, overcast, but fantastic day in Paris. Nice to have a cold, wintry day, only thing missing was a fireplace.

So I hopped on the metro, and 15 minutes later I was up in the 16th arrondissement to take in the show at the Palais de Tokyo. Perfect on a rainy day. I had never been to this museum before, which opened in 2002, and caters to the contemporary art scene. "The Third Mind", the name of the exhibition, wasn't for me a great show, as it lacked a certain cohesion, but a few breathtaking pieces, the Andrew Lord sculptures, The Gober sinks, the Bontecou wall pieces made it all worthwhile. Palais de Tokyo also houses a really nice little bookstore, and Tokyo Eat, a sweet little gem of a restaurant.

Days and nights are flying by, decaf cremes and foie gras, mojitos and quiddler, museum exhibitions and movies, and soon my daughter will be here. can't wait. only 5 weeks left in Paris. Where did the time go?

Weekly Update

2007-12-01T02:11:00.000-08:00

As we get older, we settle into our lives, with our coterie of friends and family, places we like to shop at, coffees, dinners - and that's what you hope happens in life - getting to a place of comfort. Even, as much as our spouses can drive us crazy, there is something soothing in the knowledge of our longstanding relationships, as well.

For me it was just time. I left my marriage of 20 years. All I can say is until you've been there, you really can't understand the complexity and soul searching and life altering year that follows divorce, particularly after such a long marriage.

But I landed on my feet, and decided to follow through with some things I've always wanted to do. Who knew, not even me, that within 2 years I would land in Paris, and not only land, but feel so gratified.

I've met a cast of characters, made so many new lifelong friends; and strange to think I would have known none of them had I not taken risks. They have changed my life, in extraordinary ways, for which I am grateful. And without them, Paris would not be the same.

This week was pretty crazy - lunch with Julie (we had the best cheeseburgers in town at Ferdi's!), lunch with Avis in Les Halles, shopping with Vincent, dinner at Katrin's, coffee with Deborah, strolling Ile St Louis; a vernissage and then dinner with friends, late night chats at an atelier, ducking into the movies - really nice times.

and yes, for those that know me well, a stop each week at the hair salon.

Holiday Time in Paris

2007-11-23T07:01:00.000-08:00

I braved the metro today, riding the #7 literally like a sardine. Luckily my destination, Galeries Lafayette, was only 3 stops away.

For those of you that are unfamiliar with the flagship store on Blvd Haussman, it is one of the most elegant department stores ever built. Galeries Lafayette has a beautiful glass and steel dome at its' center, and an Art Nouveau staircase built in 1912.

To my delight and surprise, the windows of the stores have already been transformed into magical winter scenes, some windows with animated and moving objects, others, stationary objects, but elegant.

Seeing the windows brought me back to my youth, when I was a child living in New York. Waiting patiently for the marvelous and mysterious windows of Lord & Taylor's, and Saks Fifth Avenue, to be unveiled.

Whether you like to be a consumer or not, and celebrate this time of year, you have to admit, that the holiday decorations can make it just a dazzling time of the year.

Some More New Things I'm Learning About Paris

2007-11-23T01:13:00.000-08:00

There are some things about Paris that are just different from the States, not better- not worse - just different. I am slowly becoming accustomed to my new way of life.

1. Despite the fact that shops may have signage that says they are open Mon-Sat from 11 - 7, I would highly suggest that you not mosey on over until after 12pm - it seems that many of the small shops wear a different watch then we do, and open up at their leisure.

2. I have noticed that when I go to the movies here, there can be 500 open seats, and the next person who comes into the theater chooses the seat right next to you, why, I do not know. It's like standing on the metro, and somehow, within seconds, you notice that you are no longer standing in the same place, but find another french person standing in your original spot. As a friend said, and I paraphrase, "just remember, wherever you are, that's where the french want to be!" Makes me laugh.

3. Be careful as a woman making eye contact with a man. The minute you do, they take that as an invitation, and you will find yourself being asked out all the time, and most of them are not men you have any interest in. When I looked up at the museum guard (who's left eye sort of traveled within its' socket), because he seemed to be circling me, that was it - it was all over. "Would you like to go for a cup of coffee? ", he asks... "No sorry, I say in french, I see someone." And with that, I am quickly out of the museum and back on my path for the day.
4. Water; Avis and I rate our restaurants based on the delivery of water. When we order our coffee, we almost always ask for a bottle of water. Many places will bring them both together, but many, well, you can ask, and ask and ask - you could be dehydrated and fainting, and good luck, if that water ever comes.

But all in jest, as there are so many more things to love about Paris.

Waking up to such a beautiful city, is incroyable! Everyday, I feel blessed by my surroundings - and you can't quite grasp the depth of it until you live it.

Paris is a walking city - everything is at your doorstep. To hop a metro (when the metro isn't striking!), and be just about anywhere you want to go within 15 minutes is a civilized way to live.

The language is like a lullaby, sometimes i just eavesdrop on a conversation just to hear the sounds. Sitting in cafes, the ease of the way of life. All the different specialty shops for cheeses and meats and wines, and even olive oil, makes shopping feel like a luxury. Living amongst so many grand museums, and just popping in to see a new exhibit, as part of your day.

I love Los Angeles - it holds a history and lifelong friendships, and most importantly, it is where my family lives. People I miss, but hold in my heart while I am here.

So for now, as long as my heart is filled with my family and friends, I think I'll settle into Paris for a while.

How I Got Lost in the Louvre

2007-11-19T07:19:00.001-08:00

The Louvre is only about a block or 2 away from where I live, and yet not until today (and I've been in Paris now going on 6 weeks) did I finally venture in. Anselm Kiefer was having an exhibition, and I thought it would be interesting to see his new work.

So a bit of history - the Castle of the Louvre used to be where the museum is. It was built by Philip II of France. The castle was used as a fortress to defend Paris against the Vikings. Charles V, King of France turned the castle into a palace. However, Francis I, King of France, knocked it down and built a new palace. Henry IV, King of France added the Grande Galerie to the Louvre. The Grande Galerie is more than a quarter mile long and one hundred feet wide.

The salient point of the history lesson, was to point out just the vast size of the museum.

So, I make a beeline for the Kiefer show, not that I don't like antiquities, but I was definitely on a mission. I ask the entrance guard which direction, and follow the signs, up the first flight of 500 steps, until all of a sudden, the signs disappear. However I happened upon a small but extraordinary exhibit of Biedermeier, to my surprise, and despite there being maybe only a dozen examples of furniture, 2 dozen pieces of silver, and a half dozen works on paper, I couldn't pull myself away. It was a jewel of a show.

Ok, so now I had to find the Kiefer show. I asked the next guard to point me in the correct direction, and in perfect English he tells me to take a left and just keep walking through the rooms. After about 10 minutes of feeling like a rat in a maze, I ask the next guard, who tells me I shouldn't have made a left, but instead should have gone to the right. So off I go, retracing my steps, headed in the opposite direction.

I'm going and going until I get to a dead end, and more stairs. So I ask the next guard, who says, oh, no, you need to go down these 500 stairs and go straight down to the end of the hall on the floor below. So that's what I do. No Kiefers. So I ask again, and this guard says, oh no, you have to go back up the 500 steps, it's on that floor. So I do. At the top of the stairs I see another guard, so instead of wandering, I ask, "and where might I find the Kiefer exhibit," and she says, oh no, you have to go down the 500 steps, and at the bottom, my colleague will direct you. And I say to her, your colleague at the bottom of the steps just sent me back up here. And all she will say, is go back downstairs, my colleague will direct you. Maybe these are the only words she knew in English.

All I can tell you is 50 minutes and 4000 steps later, I finally found the Kiefers- which turned out to be 4, very uninteresting small installations, and ultimately weren't even worth walking up 5 steps for.

Thank goodness for such a beautiful Biedermeier show, which made my day.

And that's how I got lost in the Louvre.

Things Around Town

2007-11-10T00:35:00.000-08:00

Paris Photo has won recognition as the world's premier fair for still photography. From November 15th through November 18th, 2007 it will bring together some hundred galleries and publishers from the world over. During those five days, Paris Photo will be the eye of the world.

The Musée de la Mode et du Textile invited Christian Lacroix to become the curator and historian he wanted to be when he studied art history at the Ecole de Louvre before embarking on his internationally acclaimed career in haute couture. For over a year, he immersed himself in the museum’s collections of costumes and accessories. The result is an atypical exhibition in which Christian Lacroix gives us his own personal vision of the history of fashion. For a few months the garments he selected from a heritage stretching back over several centuries will encounter the haute-couture creations of one of the greatest names of French fashion.

New films in town; David Cronenberg's film, Eastern Promises, Woody Allen's new film, Cassandra's Dream, and Paul Haggis' film, In The Valley of Elah.

New friendships, new dinners, new introductions; new clothes, new restaurants,new inspiration for work...

Yes, there's lots going on around town.

Making my Way

2007-11-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

Everyday brings something new with it, no matter where you live, but probably because I have lived in Los Angeles for so long, I can take the days for granted, (which means that sometimes I just let one day run into the next). I still love Los Angeles, and even found myself speaking endearingly about the city with a friend last night, who is an ex-pat from Los Angeles (and doesn't find the city so irresistable).

My lifestyle in Paris is very different, but one I currently savor. My eyes don't see the light of day before 9 or so each day, and then I slowly arise for my morning oj, and head back into bed, to answer e-mails - the flurry that seems to amass from the night before. So by the time I actually get up and out, it's not until at least 11:30. This has become a ritual, and one I like very much.

And then the day begins, out on the street, into the world. Whether it's heading to a new design bookstore I read about, or shopping for inspiration for work, making my way through the metro and figuring out how to get from one point to another, it is all new and fresh, and vibrant, and alive.

Each day brings with it a new discovery - maybe that's what's so enticing about being here (besides the city's alluring beauty). To segue a moment, I was sitting on the Pont Neuf the other morning, overlooking the Seine, seeing the Eiffel tower boasting its' head above the rooftops in one direction, and the Ile de La Cite in the other, and I thought to myself, am I really so fortunate as to be able to just be here?

So, whether it's a new word I learn in the french language, (I can't thank you enough, Avis, for teaching me "doucement" - it has changed my life!) or meeting up with a new person, these are small but very satisfying moments, all meant to be appreciated.

The willingness to put myself out there every day, into the unknown and not only come out unscathed, but actually feel so much richer from the experiences, is the most satisfying of all.

Design at Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais

2007-11-01T03:29:00.000-07:00

I was so looking forward to the design exhibition up at the Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais. All I can say is, if you haven't been yet, save your 10e. The show had so many gaping holes in it, it looked like the Grand Canyon - so very disappointing. It's as if the curators said to themselves, ok, let's make some categories, furniture that has figurative elements, furniture that has animal elements (you get the idea), and now, let's go find some furniture to fit in these categories. A design show without Noguchi, Hoffman, Mackintosh (if there was Eames I can't recall), Jacobsen, Breuer - ugh - the list goes on and on. How can you have a design show, and NOT include some of the most influential designers? How can you include Zaha Hadid and Frank Gehry, but overlook Mies van der Rohe or Corbusier? An exhibition at its worst.

Freedom!

2007-10-27T12:31:00.001-07:00

For those of you who know my daughter, Kate, she finally got her driver's license on Thursday. My little daughter isn't so little anymore...

Some Differences Between Living in Los Angeles and Paris

2007-10-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

When you live in Los Angeles, you are always looking in front of you, because you are mostly driving everywhere you have to go, (so you'd better be looking straight ahead, to avoid crashing into the car in front of you!) But in Paris, I find myself always looking down at the ground everywhere I go, not because I am shy or avoiding the gaze of another, but to avoid stepping in the dog remains that are everywhere!

The French also don't seem to understand the concept of a washer and a dryer being separate machinery. My machine is a one unit washer/dryer combo, and is about 1/3 of the size of a standard American model. You're lucky if you can fit in more than one bedsheet at a timeI It works well for washing, but try to dry something - it takes about 3 hours, if not more. Go figure.

I have also searched high and low for a dry cleaners in my neighborhood, and have yet to find one. Los Angeleans (including myself) don't know how to get through a week without a dry cleaners to take care of us - this has been an ongoing dilemna. I am having withdrawals...

And lastly, it is lovely that there are people out on the streets until all hours of the night, though it astonishes me that the concept of keeping their voices down at 4 am is an unknown quantity, and are oblivious to the fact that people are actually in apartments above the streets, trying to sleep.

On the flipside, I can get anywhere in the city pretty quickly and easily because the metro is so efficient, it is turly the prettiest city in the world, hands down, shopping for food isn't a chore but a ritual, a coffee at Starbucks doesn't hold a candle to a cafe creme ici, and you'll never find a better cheese, crusty bread, or patisserie than en Paris!

A Bientot!

Un Jour Sur Terre (A Day on Land)

2007-10-25T09:35:00.001-07:00

I needed to modify my blog, because apparently this film is to be released in the U.S. with David Attenborough being the narrator. It's an extraordinary movie, with shots taken of animals and plant life and the environment from around the world; marvelous shots of a polar bear breaking through the ice, with 2 baby bear cubs to follow; birds performing mating rituals like never seen before - just captivating. A poignant reminder of the beauty of the world in which we live. Watch the video... but when it's released in the U.S., make sure your kids go and see it, and treat yourself, as well.

A Must Read!

2007-10-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

I am currently reading, "The Beautiful Things That Heaven Bears" by Dinaw Mengestu.

Mengestu is a 28 year old Georgetown grad, originally from Ethiopia, and this is his debut novel. I haven't read something this beautiful in a long, long while, and today it won the Quill award for Best First Time Novel. Well deserved. I am excited that he will be speaking at the Village Voice Bookstore here in Paris in late November.

He writes, "Where is the grand narrative of my life? The one I could spread out and read for signs and clues as to what to expect next?" What an incredibly insightful use of words - tell me that doesn't make you pause and think.

Trust me on this one, treat yourself...

Feels Like I'm in L.A.!

2007-10-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

L.A., filled with fashion-conscious women, always searching for the current haute clothing. I came across this new hot undergarment designed here in Paris to "boost your silhouette." Talk about elevating your wardrobe! The website is www.magicpulp.com I guess when it comes to appearances, Parisians are just as crazed as Los Angeleans.

Lots to Do!

2007-10-22T23:56:00.000-07:00

Despite living in Paris (as opposed to visiting), you never take for granted the absolute beauty that surrounds you. No matter that I take the same walk over to Les Halles each day, I never stop noticing and breathing in the allure, and charm, and grace that the city radiates. There's never a feeling of "being alone," even though I can spend days by myself. On Sunday I took the metro over to Place de la Bastille (12th arr) to the open air market, which is an absolutely delightful way to spend the day. Strolling past the meat stall, or cheese stall, seeing the produce laid out on the tables like an offering of gold jewels. Gems brought back from the market made for a wonderful feast that night; fresh cheese filled ravioli with a sage brown butter sauce, and a festival of greens.

Monday I spent a good part of the day at the Georges Pompidou Center; sorry to say that I will never get used to or like that Renzo Piano building design (and only pray that he does a better job with the redesign of the Los Angeles County Museum!) However I was excited to see the Alberto Giacometti show, and for good reason. When his work is at its' best, you can almost feel his fingers molding that parting material around his figurative sculptures, or making those beautiful gestural lines on canvas.

I then went down a flight to see the installation of the permanent collection, and while I feel it deserves another viewing, I was disappointed by the collection. The collection includes very important artists, Brice Marden, Claes Oldenburg, Phillip Guston, John Chamberlain, Eva Hesse (and a fantastic Eva Hesse at that!), for the most part, the examples they have purchased are not great examples, and there are surprisingly large gaps of important artists missing.

Each day ends with some time spent sitting outdoors at a cafe, enjoying a cafe creme, and at the american price of about $5.00 a cup of coffee, it definitely feels like a luxury, but one I just can't pass up!

Today I have the pleasure of spending the day with my girlfriend, Avis, and believe me, nothing could be better!

(Oh, and the photos were taken going up the escalator at the Pompidou - what a view - Le Tour Eiffel in one direction, Le Sacre-Couer in the other.

A Bientot!

Arrival in Paris

2007-10-19T16:42:00.001-07:00

Moving to Paris, even if only for a few months, has been an interesting experience on more levels than I can even express.

Got to the apartment, which thank goodness, is as cute as I imagined - I like it much better than even my first apt a few months ago. However, it is more petite than I thought it would be, but clean and new in a beautiful building from the 1800's. The hallway is a bit odd, as I am on the 4th floor - well, sort of. If you've ever seen the film, "Being John Malkovich", with hallways and entrances everywhere, well, that's sort of my hallway. You get off on the fourth floor, where there is actually only one apartment, but if you go through a doorway down a sort of half level, you will find me and one other apt. oh, and if you go up a half a level, you will find another 3 apartments. So exactly what floor I'm on, I have no idea. Ask John Malkovich...

The weather here is crisp and beautiful, mostly sunny, cool, breezy, sweater weather, without a nip. The streets are much more pleasant than when I was here in the summer, because most of the tourists are gone.

The neighborhood feesl like an old shoe; I know where I am; I know where to shop, where to eat, where I like to take walks. I know where to get my hair done once a week (for those of you who know how much my hair drives me crazy!)

I can't yet quite verbalize it (shocking for me, right?), or put my finger on it, but when I leave L.A. I leave with tears in my eyes, thinking, oh my god, I'm leaving everything I know that makes me feel safe, behind, and yet when I arrive, something inside me immediately feels at peace.

I think it's going to be a good 3 months...

Oh, How the French Know How to Strike

2007-10-19T16:36:00.001-07:00

After being in Paris now for only a few days, the metro decided to go on strike - disrupting daily plans and the usual get about town transport - such a warm welcome only the French could give. Couldn't get across town today, so instead I just ducked into the cinema. Saw the new Clooney film, "Michael Clayton" - starts out a bit disjointed, but stick with it; by the end, rest assured, it will all tie together. It was definitely entertaining, so it ended up being a nice way to spend a late Friday afternoon.

Saying Goodbye

2007-10-08T21:42:00.000-07:00

To those that understand, it's time to say goodbye to the steps. Endings are never easy. As I leave for Europe, I will now have 3 months to think about, and try and make sense of, the draw to those stairs for the past 8 months... Each new experience has added something to my life, and I must remember that with each ending, there is always a new beginning.

Surfing the Web

2007-09-20T18:37:00.000-07:00

I started blogging just a few months ago. I thought it was a world out in cyber space that was really inhabited by teen/20’s generation, sort of like the myspace connection, but I was pleasantly surprised to be proven wrong.

Once you start blogging, you become hooked. One site leads you to another, and another, and all of a sudden you realize hours have passed!

But here’s the thing - it’s incredible! The blogs open up the entire world, and all of a sudden you realize that you’re reading someone’s page based in Africa and Amsterdam, Paris and Rome. Like Tom Friedman’s so aptly titled book , “The World is Flat” - the internet has done exactly that - it has made the world accessible. The benefits of blogging have been so rewarding, and these are some of my experiences -

Someone recommended that I read a particular book about a woman in the fashion industry (like me!), who just picked up one day and moved to Paris. Well, I devoured the book, it was just so charming, and I had had many of the experiences she had had in the city of lights. I knew I had to meet her. When I entered the author’s name into the computer, I noticed that she had done an interview with an online magazine, so I contacted the interviewer and said, “Do you know how I can get a hold of this author?”. I expected no response, for all he knew I could have been a lunatic. But when I awoke the next morning, there was an e-mail from the author - “You rang?” she wrote?

We have corresponded ever since, and I look forward to having coffee with her in just 3 weeks when I am back in Paris.

And then there’s the issue of design. So many bloggers are into design and style, from all corners of the earth, and they photograph and download images that they see in every nook and cranny in their respective locations. So when I have crashed and burned, no more inspiration left in my body, I start surfing the blogs, and lo and behold, there is always something new that just resparks my creativity, and I am off and running once again.

There are so many people out there that you realize, but for the internet and blogging, you might never have met - so many people you might have something in common with. People who enhance your life. Putting yourself out here - that’s a good thing - you end up getting so much in return...

The Emmys

2007-09-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

Last night was the Emmy Awards, along with all the lavish soirees happening around town. So if you live in Los Angeles, this is how it goes - you have a friend, or a friend who has a friend, or a friend who has a friend who knows someone, but any way you cut it, there is often a connection somewhere that you have, that gets you invited to one of these events.

Ergo, I had the pleasure of attending the HBO Emmy party last night. One thing about Los Angeles is that it is a very lavish city, and this party was no exception. Extravagantly designed in a thai theme, it was nothing short of a film set in and of itself. The food was catered by Wolfgang Puck - any foodie would know - need I say more. It was a fabulous place to people watch - fashion at its best (and worst).

What I think people miscontrue about “tinsel town,” is that while it most definitely glitters, especially at events such as these, I met a lot of people who were very real and genuine - Los Angeles is not just a facade.

What Los Angeles is, is abundant in everything - it’s a sprawling scape of a city with neighborhoods tucked in between. But the word “abundant” is the key here - you can find just about anything you want, in about every color, shape, size or variety - and if you delight in all that it has to offer, well, then, it’s a great city.

Oh, to be American

2007-09-03T08:45:00.000-07:00

Today is Labor Day here in the United States. It’s a holiday, not devoted to any man, sect, race or nation. A holiday, instead, committed to celebrating the American work force, and our contibutions to making this country great.

Well let's see, almost 6% of our work force is unemployed, the amount of people living in poverty is still over 12%, and we have more uninsured than ever before.

We build the worst cars, we have sent manufacturing jobs overseas, and the best electronics we import.

We have also involved our military workforce in a war we should never have created, and are watching them die like flies.

Doesn't it make you feel so proud to be American?

Sexistentialism

2007-08-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

I think we need a new word in our lexicon, sexistentialism. Existentialism means pertaining to our existence - so sexistentialism should mean pertaining to our sexual existence.

That's where the opposite sex (speaking only for myself) comes into play.. Since becoming single again, the desire to find Mr Right has been in my thoughts. I have been fortunate enough over the years to have had a family, developed many wonderful life long friendships, established my career, and made sure I was financially stable. So what's left but to find that one mate - the one we want to spend time with, and wake up to, and share our lives with.

And so the dating began. I used to look out at the dating world and think, oh, I'm so glad I'm not a part of that! But surprisingly enough, I've enjoyed it - more than I ever thought I would. I feel fortunate to have met some truly wonderful men that I would otherwise never have known, and have experienced them in ways that are unique to each of them. It feels like I've been given this gift of a second life.

And out of all of this new exploration, something wonderful and unexpected happened. I discovered myself. I realized that I am enough. I, as a sole and separate, am enough. And that's allowed me to see that I am not interested in the hunt; I lead a full and fulfilling life everyday as just sole and single me, and that's what I focus on.

So when it's meant to be, Mr Right will come along. I'm sure of that. I have tried to figure out why I have been in the relationship I have been in for about 5 months now, and am comfortable knowing that he (or even the next man I meet) may not be Mr Right, but may just be Mr Right Now. And you know what? It's ok to enjoy the pleasures without having to feel like it's forever. The beauty of being single...

Only in L.A.

2007-08-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

Before I head back to Paris in October for the rest of the year, I am taking in Los Angeles for the best of what it has to offer. Some, of course, might say, what does L.A. offer, but the answer is - alot. Despite the fact that the freeways are jammed, and you do have to drive everywhere, there is a menagerie of people who are real, and open, and warm and inclusive; people with interesting careers - in pr, in music, in reality tv. In fashion, in business, in design. An interesting fabric and texture of peeps.

Last night I was invited to the ultimate L.A. party. The house was located directly on the beach, owned originally by Douglas Fairbanks Sr. Probably about 250 people, on a warm summer L.A. night.

Let's just say, no holds barred... High above the center of the swimming pool were Cirque du Soleil like artists performing on a trapeze all night. A woman in a bathing suit (great body I might add) was sealed in a clear plastic bubble about 10 feet in diameter, rolling around in the bubble on the water's surface. Female strippers performed on a stage throughout the night, not to mention the dj, the films projected on screens high above, the comedic rappers, the flow of alcohol and food. And last but not least, every party in L.A. needs a green screen and photographer, to take photos of your face that they set in various photo scenarios (i.e. with the beatles, figureskating) - a little memoir of the night to take home.

But the best part of all, was the mix in ages of the crowd, from early 30's - 60's, and some of the nicest, and friendliest people you could meet.

So what make Los Angeles sometimes really great? Despite what outsiders think - there are truly wonderful, and GENUINE people in L.A.

Sharing a Fence

2007-08-14T09:23:00.000-07:00

I deliberate about art, design, architecture and music on my blog, but I can't help but also deliberate about boys. I completely understand the blank white canvas from the 60's hung in a museum, the complexity of Gehry's architecture, the complicated nature behind Steve Reich's music. But boys - they are, by far, the hardest to understand.

Instinct leads us in life; how to be successful in our careers, in parenting, in friendships, but when it comes to boys, instinct seems to fall by the wayside. Sometimes we think we know what we want, but it's all wrong for us; other times we have no clue, and we end up giving up what was probably the best thing around.

I discovered that I was sharing a fence with cute boy next door. I knew from the moment I looked over the fence to introduce myself, that there was that "my body's feeling that chemistry" thing. I felt it from him, as well. It took us all of 1 evening together to find we were going to be sharing more than a fence. That was almost 6 months ago, and we've been seeing one another ever since.

I seem to have forgotten my chemistry class way back when in high school, but it is slowly coming back to me. I remember now that all chemistry experiments weren't successful; some produced fascinatingly wonderful results, and others, smelled like rotten eggs. What we were supposed to get out of it was an understanding of how things play off one another, what makes something compatible or not.

So that's where I am at - back in chemistry class. I think we're still trying to figure out if our chemicals are compatible, or in the long run, they will just end up smelling like rotten eggs.

The thing is, I'm ready to find out the result...

Richard Serra

2007-08-12T22:59:00.000-07:00

Richard Serra, by far one of the great scultpors of our time, is interviewed here by Charlie Rose, talking about the making of his art. An exhibition spanning 40 years of his work is currently on view at MOMA in New York until September 10, 2007. If you are anywhere in the vicinity, it is a show that is not to be missed.

When MOMA went through renovations several years ago, they made sure specifically that the building was engineered to withstand the weight of Richard Serra's work, that's how important an artist he is. He is also a very difficult and somewhat intimidating man (like his art), but he has a brilliant mind. Listen to him speak...

Music to My Ears

2007-08-12T22:37:00.001-07:00

Check out this you tube video of Regina Carter. No one can turn the violin into jazz in the way she can. When I hear her play, I know where the phrase "music to my ears" came from. She is just soooo good...

New Prints

2007-08-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

These are just a few new prints in my Fall/Winter portfolio (for those of you who wonder what I do all day!)

Fashion Photos At Their Best

2007-08-12T00:58:00.000-07:00

Shot by Mert & Marcus, this photo is from the September issue of W magazine. I think the colors and the triangular frame make this a knockout image...the model, by the way, is sporting a Louis Vuitton dress and beret.

Enigmas

2007-08-10T20:43:00.000-07:00

Girl meets boy. Boy and girl live on different continents. Boy is somewhat of a mystery, can't quite get a grip on who he is, but girl feels a tremendous physical chemistry with boy, and boy gives the impression he is physically interested in girl. Girl goes back to her continent.

Boy and girl flirt on internet.

Two months later, boy comes to girl's continent for business, and girl becomes his "bonus". Boy and girl have an affair.

Boy is hard to read. Girl and boy have sex the first night together, boy says "that was too fast for me." Girl has never heard ANY man say that before. "What the hell does that mean?" she thinks. Girl can't read boy, and boy is not a great communicator about personal things.

Boy leaves. Girl sinks. Boy knows girl has gone off an emotional deep end, but really turns out to be a friend and helps girl through her hard time. Girl is grateful.

Five months later, girl goes to boy's continent. Sh**, chemistry, all over again. Girl can't help it. Girl feels like Samantha in Sex in the City. Girl overtures boy, boy seems interested, but then boy doesn't follow through. "What the hell does that mean?" she thinks. Same question, all over again, now on both continents.

Girl goes back to her continent. Boy is genuinely a nice man. Genuinely. Girl really likes boy, though he does drive her crazy at times. Girl likes clarity, boy prefers muddle. Pondering. Boys are a pain in the ass. This boy in particular.

Girl is still looking for clarity, and it dawns on her Boy is an enigma.

That's ok, thinks the girl; "Enigmas make better friends than boyfriends...."

Now if only girl could get a new chemistry set...

Obama

2007-08-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to go see Barack Obama speak here in Los Angeles. What I didn't know is that John Edwards was speaking right across the street, and Hilary Clinton was speaking only a few blocks away. Needless to say, the streets were a madhouse.

Barack Obama, to me, is the only real hope we have for a political leader (with the exception of Bloomberg, though he has not yet entered the race). Obama is an elegant, eloquent, charismatic man, who exudes knowledge and compassion, and real foresight to what this country needs. Our current administration is one that doesn't seem to believe in our constitution. The choices this administration has made have left the American people despised around the world. Where are we to help the impoverished, to help end the strife in Darfur, to close Guantanamo Bay, to provide health care to everyone in this country. And what the hell are we doing in Iraq? Our only choices there at this point are bad, or worse.

I walked away feeling exhilirated by Obama's energy and by his vision, and saddened at the same time - because I know that the people in this country are too ignorant and too racist to be able to elect a black man as our President.

Flavin Exhibition

2007-08-06T10:13:00.000-07:00

For those that are art lovers, and might happen to be in the Los Angeles area, the Dan Flavin exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is one of the most beautiful shows I've seen in a while, and not to be missed. For those that don't know his oeuvre, he worked with mass-produced flourescent lights, creating architecture, in essence, in space. The show covers his work from the early 60's through to the 80's. Closes Aug 12, 2007.

The kind of show that makes you know why life is grand...

Will We Ever Understand Them?

2007-08-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

Men are the bane of women's existence, at least they are for me. They are so hard to define, to read, to understand. As my therapist has said to me, "men don't say very much, so when they do, listen." The problem is, I don't think we're always speaking the same language.

So I looked up the definition of men, and this is what I found.

–noun
1. an adult male person, as distinguished from a boy or a woman.
2. a member of the species Homo sapiens or all the members of this species collectively, without regard to sex: prehistoric man.
3. the human individual as representing the species, without reference to sex; the human race; humankind: Man hopes for peace, but prepares for war.
4. a human being; person: to give a man a chance; When the audience smelled the smoke, it was every man for himself.
5. a husband.
6. a male lover or sweetheart.
7. a male follower or subordinate: the king's men. He's the boss's number one man.
8. a male employee or representative, esp. of a company or agency: a Secret Service man; a man from the phone company.
9. a male having qualities considered typical of men or appropriately masculine: Be a man. The army will make a man of you.
10. a male servant.
11. a valet.

So with all of these different angles, do I feel any closer to understanding who they are? I think not...

Phefferminz

2007-07-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

I have amassed collections of many things over the years, from contemporary artwork & pottery, to books, 1950's furniture and yes, pez dispensers. Most of the artwork and 1950's furniture went out the door with the ex, the books were all donated to libraries, but I am happy to say, my Pez collection has remained intact.

So, a bit of the Pez dispenser history - The word "PEZ" comes from the German word for peppermint, which is phefferminz. You take the first, middle, and last letters of the German word - PheffErminZ, put them together and you get "PEZ". It was an adult breath mint that was marketed as an alternative for smoking.

The first PEZ dispenser came along in 1947, and looked like a cigarette lighter. Then in 1948, they came out with the "easy, hygienic dispenser" that we all recognize now to be a regular PEZ dispenser. In 1952 they were introduced in America, and it seemed children became attached to them, so they placed heads on the dispensers, and voila!

Everyday I wake up and see them all over the house, the bright colors, the characters from my childhood - it just makes me smile...

Awesome

2007-07-31T19:40:00.000-07:00

As a textile designer, there are NEVER enough books with inspiration. When I was in Paris this summer, I found this amazing bookstore called Artazart, at 83 Quai de Valmy in the 10th arrondissement (www.artazart.com) and came across this incredible new book that every designer should have in their library - the amount of inspiration inside is endless...

The Weather

2007-07-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

When life gets to you, just remember, it's not the weather that's bad, it's just that you're wearing the wrong outfit.

Divorce

2007-07-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

Married in 1986 at age 25 for 20 years, 3 kids, career, fancy lifestyle - the whole 9 yards. Age 45 rolls around, and it just seemed like it was time to move on, and so, amicably, we did. Kids pretty much now grown, I feel like I'm lucky to be living a second life. Always wanted to live in Paris, and so that's exactly what I'm going to do, live part-time between Los Angeles and Paris.

This blog is my personal scribbling pad; my own little zeitgeist...

So if I'm not home, please leave a message, apres le beep...