Henri Loves Paris...

A little quote...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:57:00 +0000

"The only place the mind will ever find peace is inside the silence of the heart."

Elizabeth Gilbert

Bisous,
Henri

Photo taken in the Grand Hall at Chenonceau, Cher River, France

Up in the clouds...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:42:00 +0000

One of my favorite things to do when I get to Paris is visit Galeries Lafayette. Not only is this "grand magasin" a fabulous shopping mecca; but, it also offers one of the most panoramic views of the city.

Take the elevator to the top of the building and prepare to be blown away! On this particular day last June, the clouds were streaming by the majestic Palais Garnier. What an impressive vantage point to view this iconic building!

The Paris Opera was commissioned in 1860 by Napoleon III. Architect Charles Garnier was selected to build an opera house that would reflect the opulence of the Second Empire. Great composers, allegorical figures representing spirits of music and dance, as well as voluptuous nudes grace the facade and exterior of the building. (The nudes actually caused quite a scandal when they were unveiled back in the day.) This view is technically the rear of the opera.

A few steps to the left of the view of the opera, the Eiffel Tower can be seen in the distance. Standing on the roof and looking out over the vast landscape of Paris, I am struck with awe and reverence. So much beauty, history, turbulence, and energy intersects in this one spot before my eyes. It is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on all that was, is, and will be in this magnificent city.

A bientôt,
Henri

Le Caveau des Oubliettes...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 02:07:00 +0000

Definition of Oubliette: a secret dungeon with a trapdoor in the ceiling where persons are condemned to perpetual imprisonment, to perish secretly

On the corner of rue Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre and the narrow, historic Rue Galande, there sits a curious little bar, Le Caveau des Oubliettes, Le Guillotine Bar. In another lifetime, this dimly lit bar served as a holding place for the unfortunate prisoners during the time of The Revolution (1793). Those who were thrown down into Le Caveau (The Cave) were awaiting their meeting with the newly developed trademark of the Revolution, Le Guillotine. The thick walls of the stairwell and heavy trap door covering Le Caveau helped obscure the wails and howling of the prisoners.

Coming in off the street, you will find a darkly lit, atmospheric bar and beyond the bar lies the staircase where you will descend into "Le Caveau des Oubliettes"...the cave of the forgotten. The walls are decorated with heavy chains, handcuffs, and a barred window...reminders of the room's past.

The space below is cramped with only twelve wooden tables. Here a jazz or blues band performs into the night. When the doors open at 10 pm. there is always a mad dash of people heading for the stairwell leading downstairs to the entertainment. It is a one of the more unique ways to experience music and a piece of history at once.

It is nice to know that this historic relic in history has survived!

A bientôt,
Henri

Le Train Bleu...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 02:21:00 +0000

"It wasn't until I arrived in Paris that I realized I was starving for grandeur."

"On a frosty January evening in 1975, I lugged my much loathed tweed-sided American Tourister suitcase up the staircase leading to Le Train Bleu after reading in Let's Go Europe that it overlooked the main hall of the station (Gare de Lyon) and was one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world. I couldn't afford to eat there; but, the guidebook tipped me off that I could at least afford a coffee."

"Coming through the doors, I was stunned by a vision of the nineteenth-century opulence that had made Paris the envy of the world. Waiters in black tie and fitted black waistcoats, most of them with mustaches, raced through the room bearing trays overhead..."

"My coffee came and when I noticed a tiny chocolate wrapped in gold foil on the edge of the saucer, my heart melted. So this was Paris, a place where a pauper could become a prince for a few francs. When I dug into my pocket for a cigarette, I was startled by sulfur and looked up to find that the bartender with the pencil mustache and finely oiled streaks of hair stretched over his bald dome was waiting to light my smoke. 'C'est magnifique, Le Train Bleu, n'est ce pas?' he said with a grin."

Today as I was looking at several new books that I had set aside, I came across this description of the restaurant Le Train Bleu, written by Alexander Lobrano in his book, Hungry for Paris, The Ultimate Guide to the City's 102 Best Restaurants. I really fell hard for the sentence, "a place where a pauper could become a prince for a few francs." Who doesn't want to feel like a prince (or a princess) on occasion? And, I could totally relate to the sheer grandeur of the restaurant.

I hope you enjoyed this little journey into Le Train Bleu as much as I did. This past June I was staying very near to Gare de Lyon, if only I had known...I could have walked over for a cup of coffee...

Bisous,

Henri

All photos courtesy of Google Images

L'Hotel Le Lauzun

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 21:30:00 +0000

Located on the Ile St. Louis is this lovely old hotel (home) at #17 quai d' Anjou. During the 17th century, a wealthy owner built this elaborate home with the decorative balcony and fish drainpipes. The inside panelling was gilded and painted with the same flourish as the exterior. Above the door the inscription reads, Hotel de Lauzun, 1657. During the 19th century, the aristocracy moved to Versailles and the home fell on harder times, becoming a laundry. Fortunately, the owner stored the panelling in a cellar and it was rescued and restored to its former glory at a later date.

At one point in the history of this property, the famous 19th century literary figure, Charles Baudelaire lived here on the ground floor from October 1843 to September 1845. While living here he took hashish with Theophile Gautier and friends, founding Club des Hachischins (other memebers included Rilke, Sickert and Wagner). It was here that Baudelaire fell madly in love with his mixed race mistress, Jeanne Duval, and wrote poetry prolifically... creating what would later become Les Fieurs du Mal.

Baudelaire rarely lived at one address for such a long period of time during his life (1821-1867). He actually lived at 45 different addresses in Paris, not including a few dives where he would bolt and lodge to avoid his creditors, which was often.

L'Hotel Lauzun is now owned by the city of Paris, where it is used for receptions and honorary guests. It is a wonderful gesture that the grandeur of the home can once more be appreciated.

This is a particularly beautiful area on the quai de Anjou and the residence next door, the Hotel Lambert, is equally elegant and famous...just another small snippet of history waiting to be discovered.

Enjoy your stroll...A bientot!

Henri

Notre Dame in Silhouette...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 23:47:00 +0000

Each time I return to Paris, I always take one evening and go on a dinner cruise. I don't think that there is a better or more romantic way to see the City of Light than by boarding a dinner cruiser. This short evening adventure will create an opportunity for you to sit back while sipping champagne, dine on a first class meal, and view the historic, illuminated landmarks along the Seine.

Imagine an evening filled with elegance and romance...a time to relax and allow all possibilities to unfold. Truly, this is a feast for the senses.

Bonne nuit mes amours,
Henri

I recommend Bateau Parisiens.

The Rue de Seine...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 02:10:00 +0000

At the intersection of Rue de Seine and Rue de Bucci, I came across the most amazing work of graffiti...I thought it was rather stunning and I was completely amazed by the street rendition of Einstein, The Beatles with face paint to resemble Kiss, and the woman with the tattoo on her back. I actually saw one woman artist finishing up some work on the wall...
the date was October 2010.

Almost a year later, June 2011, I returned to the spot of this great street art to see what had happened in the past year. To my surprise, the old graffiti had been removed and a woman's face had replaced Einstein, The Beatles, and The Shirtless Woman. I actually preferred the drawing from 2010; however, this corner seems to be an equal opportunity canvas.

After doing a little research on Rue de Seine, I discovered that the street was famous for graffiti! The anti capitalist, Guy Debord had famously scrawled on the wall in 1953: "Ne travaillez jamais." (Don't ever work.) Apparently these walls have been sacred to graffiti artists through the ages!

Here I sat at the little cafe looking out at the intersection of Rue de Bucci and Rue de Seine, contemplating all the history that has taken place on this bustling corner of Paris. I am always amazed that where ever you may be in Paris, there is a little story, a little lesson in history waiting to be discovered!

A bientot,

Henri

Suzanne Valadon...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 20:00:00 +0000

Marie Clementine Valadon (Suzanne Valadon) was born the illegitimate daughter of a French laundress near the city of Limoges, France. From the age of nine, she supported herself with various jobs, including working in the circus as an acrobat. At sixteen her career in the circus was cut short because of a injury caused by a fall. Looking for a safer occupation, she became an artist's model in the area of Montmartre for the likes of Pierre Purvis de Chavannes, Henri de Toulouse Lautrec, and Pierre-Auguste Renior.

As Suzanne ("The Mistress of Montmartre") frequented the clubs and cabarets, she attracted and created quite a sensation with her provocative behavior and her unconventional love life. She took many lovers and at the age of eighteen, she gave birth to an illegitimate son, Maurice Utrillo ( who would later become a famous artist known for his keen eye reproducing the street scenes in Montmartre). While posing as a model, she would observe the techniques of the artists for whom she posed. Soon she began to create and produce her own art. Toulouse Lautrec was the first to see the potential of her artwork and encouraged her to continue painting. Additionally, she was supported by Degas, who purchased three of her paintings in 1893. Among her friends and contemporaries were Van Gogh, Gauguin, Picasso, and Modigliani.

Suzanne painted portraits, landscapes, and still life; however, her forte was her female nudes. Her females were bold, alive, and sexually charged. Until she came on the art scene, the traditional way of representing the female nude had been retiring and passive. Being the earthy, lusty woman that she was, she incorporated these emotions into the women on her canvases. In 1915, she had her 1st one person show which gained critical and commercial success. Her style shocked the bourgeois society as much as her personal conduct. She literally defied convention. Suzanne's personal life garnered as much attention as her art. Her lovers included the painter Purvis de Charvannes, the composer Eric Satie, and the painter Renior.

After a respectable marriage for fourteen years to a banker, she left her banker husband for a man twenty-one years her junior. Andre Utter became the love of her life and with him she returned to her previous bohemian existence. When Suzanne died in 1938, many of the Parisian art community came to her funeral, including Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, and Andre Derain.

Bisous,
Henri

All photos from Google.

A Bouquet for Someone Special...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 01:04:00 +0000

Today I came across a lovely quote which brought to mind the final days of my visit in Paris last October...

As I was walking on rue Monge, near my hotel, I spotted this lovely container of lavender roses...the color was so exquisite that I couldn't take my eyes off of them!

The following day, I returned to the flower shop and purchased a bouquet for the hotel staff at Hotel des Grandes Ecole. They had been so lovely and helpful for my entire stay and I wanted to leave them with something more than just my final payment.

Here is a photo of Dorada, who cheerfully brought me the most lovely breakfast tray each morning with a delightful Bonjour! and Kiss Kiss on each cheek. Sometimes there are just no words for this type of experience; but, I think this quote does the job nicely...

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom. Marcel Proust

Bisous,

Henri

It's Raining...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:06:00 +0000

I am reading up on all my favorite blogs about Paris before I take off next Sunday for my trip to "The City of Love and Lights." I am so excited to return to the magic of Paris; however, it seems that Paris is experiencing quite a bit of rain at the moment. This brought to mind my obsession with purchasing an unbrella from a famous establishment, Simon, that specializes strictly in umbrellas...

Last year I had read an article in the New York Times about Simon and I was quite fascinated with the idea of the woman, Chantal Voisin, who owns and runs this unique shop. Of course, most of us need an umbrella from time to time; however, Chantal discusses the need for an umbrella, depending on "a lady's attire and occasion."

The shop was originally opened and operated by her grandfather in 1897, "when the umbrella was essential to the wardrobe and lifestyle for every promenading lady or dandy." Voisin goes on to say, "In France, we always considered the umbrella the article that most accentuates a woman's femininity."

Upon seeing the sign outside the shop and the stunning umbrellas in the window...I couldn't wait to get inside and meet Chantal. Without missing a beat, she helped me select an appropriate umbrella for my needs and gave me a demonstration of how to open, close, and walk with the umbrella when facing a strong wind.

It was a wonderful experience to purchase a product from someone so knowledgeable and proud of her merchandise. I selected a black umbrella with white scenes of people walking in Paris. I would love to have that one in the window with the Eiffel Tower motif...who knows, maybe this trip...;)

Bon bisous!

Henri

My Favorite Restaurant...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 03:49:00 +0000

Le Square Trousseau is a classic Parisian bistro located near the Bastille. The setting of the restaurant sits on the corner of a square surrounded by Haussmann designed apartment buildings and overlooks a lush miniature public garden that feels private, exclusive, and inviting...

My girlfriend and I had been tipped off that this was a wonderful place to dine. We hopped on the metro and set out to see this jewel box, Belle Epoque treasure. The lighting is low and the crowd is Parisian...there are few tourists here...this is where the locals dine.

We started the evening at the zinc topped bar that is dominated by a La Victoria coffee machine. I asked the bartender if I could take his picture. He was so charming and delightful...he asked to see the picture after I had snapped it, as if to have artistic control over the image. We all agreed it was a fine picture!

The meal was pleasant and the service was excellent. The atmosphere is dreamy and I can't wait to return...

If you want to have a dinner that will make an impression...this is your place!

Bisous,

Henri

PS. Le Square Trousseau has been featured in many French films...;)

Captures of the Evening...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 00:25:00 +0000

Strolling aimlessly at night through the streets of Paris is visually stimulating and irresistibly romantic...

This shot of Notre Dame at dusk...I was excited to see how the cathedral almost appears surreal and superimposed on sapphire blue sky...

Along the Seine, the evening dinner cruisers (Bateaux Mouches and Bateaux Parisiens) meander up and down the water. Last year I went on one of the dinner cruises and I highly recommend the experience. The food is excellent and the views of the historical landmarks are awash in light. It is a unique perspective to see these grand monuments from the water as you sip champagne and dine in candlelight..

This side view of the Hotel de Ville (administration building for the City of Paris) is so alluring from the street. I can only image what has transpired over the years behind that magnificent facade...

A bientot,

Henri

State of Grace...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Mon, 30 May 2011 18:30:00 +0000

This Rose Window is located in Sainte Chapelle, a Gothic church built between 1242 and 1248 for King Louis IX, the only French King who is now a saint. Originally Sainte Chapelle was built to house the supposed "Crown of Thorns" (now kept at Notre Dame).

A Rose Window (or Catherine Window) is often a generic term applied to a circular window, especially found in churches of the Gothic Architectural Style. This window is "Judgement Day." A tiny Christ is located in the center of the chaos and miracles. Additionally, the window is from the Flamboyant period and it is 200 years newer than the other stained glass windows in the church. The window faces west and toward the sunset...it is best seen late in the day.

Art is contemplation of the world in a state of grace. Herman Hesse

Henri

Lunch at Le George...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Wed, 18 May 2011 23:25:00 +0000

Step into the "exoskeletal" escalator of the Pompidou Center, ride up to the 6th floor and arrive at one of the most beautiful roof top terrace views of Paris! Welcome to lunch at Le George...

George is a favorite place to go for respite after spending time at the Pompidou browsing perhaps the best collection of Modern Art in Europe. Additionally, when the museum closes, the restaurant remains open...giving visitors a panoramic view of the twinkling city at night.

If you elect to be seated outside on the terrace, you may gaze at the over sized golden flower pot sitting squarely in the middle of the fountain. It makes a grand impression! There are starched white tablecloths and red long-stemmed roses at every table, lending a minimalistic flair to the outdoor dining experience

Stepping inside the restaurant, it feels like one is entering the Stanley Kubrick movie, 2001 Space Odyssey. The interior of George feels futuristic, yet comfortable at the same time. There is a hot pink bar "pod" for chilling out and I can envision a jet set crowd having champagne, dinner, and taking in the sites of the city below!

Chin chin,

Henri

Galeries Lafayette...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Mon, 16 May 2011 15:37:00 +0000

The "grand magasins" are the big department stores of Paris located in the area just behind the Opera, along Boulevard Haussmann. Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps were both established in the late 19th century and they have had a rivalry since their inception. The day I visited, people were scurrying in and out of both locations at a quick clip. It is fun to walk in and enjoy the ambiance of these two famous competitors.

Galeries Lafayette is especially famous for this splendid Art Nouveau steel and glass dome ceiling.
This massive department store carries over 75,000 brand names and boasts the largest perfume department in the world; however, I could hardly take my eyes off the ceiling!

While you are visiting Galeries Lafayette, be sure to take the elevator to the top floor of the department store and take in the panoramic overlook of the old Opera district.

Appreciez,
Henri

Hotel de Sens

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Sat, 14 May 2011 18:21:00 +0000

The Hotel de Sens is a city palace located in the Marias (4th arrondissement). It is one of the few remaining examples of domestic Gothic architecture in Paris. This exquisite building has medieval watchtowers, gargoyles, and an immaculate garden.

Originally owned by the Archbishop of Sens, it also became the home of the first wife of Henri IV, Marguerite de Valois. He lodged her here when he could no longer tolerate her promiscuity. As she would continue with her behavior and leaving a trail of broken hearts, one jealous ex-lover killed her current beau and she had him beheaded. OUCH!

On the opposite side of the building, you will find a beautiful carriage entrance and courtyard. I consider this a true jewel to discover and visit. It is currently the Bibliotheque Forney, devoted to graphic and applied arts.

One afternoon I rested on a bench inside the garden and enjoyed the beauty of the flowers and a lively group of sparrows playing on the well trimmed boxwood borders.

Bientot,

Henri

My Favorite Church...Saint Severin

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Tue, 10 May 2011 22:46:00 +0000

On the Left Bank of Paris in the Latin quarter, a small and intimate church (by Parisian standards) is located a few steps from the Seine on rue St. Jacques. Clodald (the future St. Cloud) escaped his uncles, Childebert and Clotaire in 524, came to this location and built a monastery to become a disciple of Severin, the hermit. The original oratory was destroyed by the Normans and a new chapel was built in its place in the 11th century. The church became an immense parish serving most of the southern part of Paris.

The oldest remaining parts of the Church are the bell tower and the first three spans of the nave, dating from the 13th century. The remaining part of the church dates from the second half of the 15th century and is an example of "flamboyant" or "flame-like" Gothic. The interior stained-glass windows are done in greens and reds that were popular at that time. The apse has a twisted Flamboyant Gothic column with fan vaulting.

I love the color of the ancient stained glass at the ceiling level. The angels and saints depicted in these windows have great clarity and lightness considering their date. They appear to float above your head in an ethereal dance, as you would expect. A spectacular set of seven modern Jean Rene Bazaine windows inspired by the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church are located around the ambulatory.

I have had two wonderful experiences visiting the church...first walking in from the street to hear a choir doing a small concert and the second time I was there with a friend and we had the opportunity to just sit at dusk and watch the light as it slowly faded from the day in this intimate setting.

It really doesn't get more spiritual than this...

Paix et amour,

Henri

Pink! White! Pom Pom!

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Mon, 09 May 2011 11:25:00 +0000

A short stroll up the intimate and charming Rue de l' Abbaye and you will run directly into this pink and white confection of eye candy!

This little dress shop is the perfect treasure to stumble upon in Paris...
quirky and eccentric!

The windows are vignette perfection featuring hand-made dresses that are loaded with pom poms! The main theme of the store is "the pom pom." In addition to these whimsical dresses, you will also find necklaces adorned with girly girl pom poms! This is the place to let your inner Princess run wild... :)

There are many styles of pom pom dresses to choose from; however, if that is not really your taste or flavor...perhaps you might want to splurge on some luxurious fur cuffs to add to your ensemble!

Beaucoup de baisers,

Henri

A Visit to the Market

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Sat, 07 May 2011 20:47:00 +0000

Parisian neighborhoods have markets that set up several times during the week so the residents can go and stock up all sorts of fresh produce. This market is located in the Latin quarter on Rue Monge.

The French tend to buy their food on a semi daily basis. Here a man is set up and roasting chickens for shoppers who stroll by and place their orders on the spot...

All the produce is clustered and placed so that it has great eye appeal...

Who can resist these huge artichokes...I'm not sure they are real

Of course, no meal is complete without a nice bottle of wine...

Bon apetit,

Henri

Dinner for Two

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Sat, 07 May 2011 03:09:00 +0000

One evening about dusk I went for a stroll over to the Right Bank...
It was just before dark and I found this charming little restaurant, Frascati, on Rue Du Temple.

The street scene in the Marias is very active in the evening; but, this romantic little Italian restaurant just seemed to be sitting there quietly waiting for a couple to stroll in and have an intimate meal.

I love every single thing about this vignette...the cafe curtains tied up in the window, the bicycle propped up against the building, almost blending in with the brown paint on the exterior wall, one tiny table and two chairs. As the eye travels up, a red Chinese lantern is suspended from the street light. If you notice, the window is tossed open and you can see a glimpse of a reddish brown wall...like the lantern. What a cozy and inviting place to rest and recall the events of the day.

I took the photo of this little gem in hopes of returning one day for a meal... come on, let's go in!

Bon appetit,
Henri

Lock on Love!

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Thu, 05 May 2011 22:14:00 +0000

Many of the bridges in Paris have been padlocked "In the Name of Love."
A new tradition has sprung up...purchase a padlock, adorn the lock with the initials of the lovers, add a ribbon, and padlock the lock on a bridge or similar public fixture in Paris...

Notice on this bridge, Pont Archeveche, it has been adorned by many a couple as a "petite monument" to their love! Once you have secured your location and the love lock has been installed, you may elect to throw the key in the Seine as a sign of your undying love for one another or you may keep the key and return to the French capital and unlock it at the time of your return. Perhaps if the love doesn't last, you could unlock the lock and throw it into the Seine...but I hope not!

Above is another example of the locks...here they are attached to one of the ornate decorative structures on Pont Alexandre III. From a distance, this looks like a little corsage...

Here is a close up of the "lock corsage." There have been some discussions of removing the locks, as city officials believe these locks desecrate the beauty of the public landmarks. Last year, 2000 locks disappeared mysteriously. Officials at the city deny removing them, as their plan is to create a new location dedicated specifically for the "love locks."

No one knows for sure who removed the locks...as they were removed in the dark of night!

I have a feeling this little Cherub could tell us who the culprits were...;)

For the time being...I hope that Paris will allow the "love lock" tradition to remain...it is just another reason to fall in love with the "City of Love."

Love,

Henri

Touch Down, We Have Arrived!

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Wed, 04 May 2011 18:35:00 +0000

The moments before landing are always so exciting for me...the thoughts of a French croissant and cafe creme...mmmm! Do the natives know how lucky they are?

Once the bags are grabbed, I like to hop a cab and head straight for "my" island, Ile St. Louis...this is where Paris began! This is the original residential island behind Notre Dame. When you are at this location, you are at the very "coeur" heart of Paris, surrounded by the romantic Seine.

This is a true Parisian neighborhood and one of the most desirable areas in all of Paris. As you can see, the streets are very narrow and there is a lot of activity during the day and into the night...as I would soon find out. I had rented my apartment on the website, Homeaway. Most apartments in Paris do not have conditioning and I had to leave the window wide open at night. The neighborhood would really come alive once the sun went down!

Next I drop off my bags and head for some lunch. The food presentation is flawless and super fresh! Do you see that basket of bread???

Feeling refreshed and re-fueled...I am ready to take in the sites of the first day!

A bientot,

Henri

The Flower Shop

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Wed, 04 May 2011 04:19:00 +0000

This is just a quick little post to get you in the mood for spring! While strolling the sidewalks of Paris, there are multiple opportunities for visual sensory overload...but, I can never walk by one of these gorgeous little sidewalk flower shops without stopping to sniff and admire the beauty and artistry of their floral arrangements...

This is just too sweet for words...multiple tin buckets packed with tulips and roses in shades of lavender...petals lackadaisically scattered about the sidewalk...

The sunflowers just seem to be smiling right back at the camera...POSEURS!

Honestly, I just want to scoop these beautiful babies up and give them a big hug!

Well! I will just have to take a little bouquet home for the night table...:)

Sweet dreams,
Henri

A New Beginning

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Wed, 04 May 2011 03:36:00 +0000

Welcome to the new and improved version of Henri Loves... Henri Loves Paris...

After an extended break from the blogging world...I am back!
More specifically, I am back from Paris!

After two extended visits to Paris last year, I am officially in LOVE with PARIS!

I have decided to dedicate my blog to all things "Paris"...
I will be sharing my personal photos and impressions of the city, as well as new juicy tidbits of information that any Francophile will want to know...

I believe this photo of the French Gothic cathedral, "Our Lady" (Notre Dame) is a perfect way to welcome all of my friends back!

I am so excited to be writing, creating, and sharing once again with my focus and attention on this beautiful city of love and light!

Amour a' tous,
Henri

A Christmas Wish...

noreply@blogger.com (Henri Loves Paris...) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 12:53:00 +0000

To all my family of friends around the world...

May we have light in our Ways,

And Love,

And a Space for Delight,

Beauty, Truth,

Length of Days,

And Sleep in the Night.

John Horton Cooper

Happy Holidays,
Love,
Henri

Photo: The Journey Home, Wally Pacholka