Heather's Parisian Life

Montmatre

2009-02-09T13:34:00.000-08:00

Last night Jean-Claude took us out for Dinner to a very special Restaurant in 'Montmatre' called "Cafe le Viraje" ( meaning "When the World Turns" ).

It is situated on a very Special street in Paris called 'Rue Lepic', apparently one of the longest and oldest in Montmatre.

Prior to going for dinner, Jean-Claude took Christian and I to "Sacre Cour" as Christian had not been there before. It was magnificent !

Sitting high above Paris, this glorious Grand white domed Church. As we wandered inside, I lit a Candle for "St Therese", and was filled with this glorious Singing from a group of Nuns.

It was truly Beautiful. The Church was lit up with Candles and the magnificent stained windows glowed.

We then jumped in the car and proceeded to a very typical french cafe 'Le Viraje' and were warmly greeted by the Owner, who was a friend of Jean'Marc's ( Jean-Claudes brother ). The walls were covered in Photos of Famous Singers and Movie Stars, who Pierre ( the owner ) said had been Patrons of the Cafe. So we were in good company.

We had 'Escargots' ( Snails ) for our Entree, and 'Canard' ( Duck ) for our Main course.

It was then followed by a decadent 'Creme Brulee', accompanied by great wines chosen by Jean-Claude.

They were playing great Music. We drove around 'Montmatre', with Jean-Claude pointing out exquisite houses and jardins, perched majestically above Paris.

The charming little Streets and Steps, we had a wonderful night in the Artists Quarters of Paris.

Au Revoir from Paris

Heather xx

Paris Enchante

2009-02-08T09:18:00.000-08:00

Paris ..... it captures your Heart, your Senses, your everything. There is just something about it that touches your Soul !

I was fortunate to share another dinner for my Birthday, Coral my friend from Auckland took Christian and I out for Dinner last night.

We went to "Deux Magot" for Champagne drinks and then we went on to "Gaya", a Famous and fabulous Seafood restaurant on 'Rue de Bac.

It was great, the food was very Delicious. I had the 'Sea Bass with Truffles'. It was Divine !

The service was impeccable and very attentive.

They are Masters of Service the French, then afterwards we strolled down one of our favourite and very vibrant parts of St Germain, "Rue de Buci" ... J'adore !

Next day I met Coral at "Cafe de Flore" for Brunch. I just Love the ambiance there, it's always so busy and buzzy. Afterwards we strolled down 'Rue de Varenne' to the "Rodin Musee".

It was so enchanting wandering around the Gardens in the Sun, looking at the wonderful Statue of Rodins "The Thinker". The Mansion the Museum was housed in was magnificent, the statues are timeless.

Such a beautiful Sunday afternoon strolling down the charming Parisian streets and delving into the little shops. We walked down 'Rue de Varenne' on to 'Rue de Bac', and stopped in a gorgeous little shop called "Lou Lou's", which we chuckled at ( because my Scottie dog's name is 'Lou Lou' ).

I walked Coral back to the Hotel at 'Rue de Universite', collected her Luggage and headed off to the Metro on Boulevard St Germain.

We stopped off for one last glass of Wine, bade Coral "Au Revoir" and meandered back in the delicious Sun to 17 Rue St Sulpice.

Abientot from an enchant'e Paris

Heather xx

Heathers Bon Anniversiere Vol. 2

2009-02-06T11:59:00.000-08:00

So elegant and classy, on the corner of the "Saint Honore Fauborg", the "1728" is set in the recovered Reception rooms of the 18th Century Mansion where "La Fayette" lived, a place consecrated to delicacies and sweet meals where fine Arts, Paintings, Sculptures and Music are in accordance to each other.

Classical music was playing, the service impeccable. A 5 Star Restaurant, very classy and very expensive, but it is wonderful to go to such a place for a special occasion.

The food was amazing, we started with 'Salmon Eggs', and then went through the amazing Menu.

The Desserts were presented divinely, Christian's eyes were out on Stalks ! Jean-Marc organized the exquisite Wines to complement each Dish, and Jean-Claude recommended different Dishes, as he is a Food critic Extraordinaire.

I just cherished the whole evening in Paris, with People I adored.

The setting in the "Pompadour Room" where we Dined, was Divine.

I thought I had Died and gone to 'French Heaven'.

Bon nuit from a very tired Birthday Girl

Heather from Paris xx

Heathers Bon Anniversiere Vol. 1

2009-02-06T11:06:00.000-08:00

It was my Birthday on the 5th of Febuary, and I was so Fortunate to spend it in my favouite city 'Paris'.

We started off with Champagne at "Hotel Costes". I love that place, the ambiance and the music of course ! ( we sell all the 'Hotel Costes' CD's at "French" ). I love them, what a great night.

The DJ was compiling the most amazing music, I had to ask him if that is the next compilation for 'Hotel Costes' No. 13, but he said he was just mixing it. I just loved it, the people are so chic and elegant.

Then we headed off to this amazing Restaurant that Jean-Claude had booked. He knew I wanted something Special, and it was, it blew all my Expectations.

It was like walking into an exclusive Chateau, the Restaurant is called "1728" which is the Year the Mansion was Built and it is at No. 8 Rue D'anjou.

Monuments de Paris

2009-02-02T13:20:00.000-08:00

The 'Eiffel Tower' is a Parisian Landmark, it is truly an amazing icon and it dominates the Landscape.

The view at night is mesmerising, it was all Lit up for New Years Eve and truly in it's Glory, it was Magnificent.

Another amazing and spectacular Monument is 'Napolean's Tomb' at the Invalides Armee Musee.

The moment you walk inside you can feel an eerie sense.

The Gilding on the Dome was spectacular. They used 55,000 Gold Leaf Sheets to regild it, the effect is truly regal.

Inside the Tomb, the Altar is extremely ornate and heavily gilded, the Ceiling was a Delight to the eye, Angels and Cherubs abounded, a really worth while Monument to see when in Paris.

Au Revoir

Heather xx

Cafes en Paris

2009-01-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

Paris, it's Cafes and Bars, make it so Special.

One of the favourite past times of the French is to be Seated at a table with a good view of the Street so they can watch people walking past. Observing is a famous french favourite, so of course when in Paris .....

Some of the famous Cafes are that little bit more expensive, but worth while to view the exclusive Cliental.

We had an enjoyable glass of Champagne at "Cafe Marley" ( after an afternoon observing the Treasures of the "Louvre" ), Cafe Marley is owned by the 'Costes Brothers', as in "Hotel Costes", so it is very Chic and very expensive.

Pleasant Interior, great Music and Professional service. All the little Bars and Cafes are all special and places we frequent whilst living in Paris

Au revoir Heather x

Chiens De Paris - Vol. 2

2009-01-25T13:42:00.001-08:00

I must admit the first 2 Dogs on this Blog are imports from Killearn ( Buchanan Country ) Scotland.

The Scottish Terrier called 'Archie' and the West Highland Terrier called 'Penny' were adorable, but of course I am Biased as Archie is the same Breed as my Adorable 'Lou Lou' who is being absolutely spoiled by her Auntie 'Ruth' in Christchurch. I Miss her so Much !

So I had a Definite Affinity with Archie ! They belonged to the Owners of the Pub "The Black Bull" where we had Drinks beside their Roaring Fire. They were adorable.

The other little Parisian dogs were just as Delightful.

The little French Bulldog sitting patiently in his Carry Bag on the Metro and the little Cairn Terrier waiting so patiently for his owner outside his Restaurant. Dear little Souls.

We saw 'Oliver Martinez' in Rue de Buci with his large dog ; both of them looked Gorgeous !

The darling little Wire Haired Terrier with it's owner in "Tacshen" did a little Dance for us, and the gorgeous little Maltese cradled safely in her Mother's arms outside "Les Deux Magot" in St Germain. There was even a Large dog ( Bear ) in a Taxidermist window in Rue de Bac .

We even saw in Pere Lachaise ( the Famous Cemetary ) a Statue of a Loved Son and his Dog.

I think that says it all !

Bon nuit from Paris

Heather X

Chiens De Paris - Vol. 1

2009-01-25T12:53:00.000-08:00

Parisians Adore their Chien's (Dogs) and their infants, being an avid dog lover myself, my little Scottie "Lou Lou" comes with me everywhere: into "French", in the Car, she is my constant Companion. ( She would Love Paris as I do ! ).

So I can empathise with the French and their love of their dogs.

They are treated like stars in Paris. In Restaurants they trot in on Leads in their Designer Coats, or in the arms of their Mummies or Daddies, and have the Waiter wrapped around their little Paws !

Water bowls and succulent pieces of Meat, are handed to them. They are allowed to fly ( literally sit next to you ), go on the Metro and on the Bus. On the Trains, they are Adored by everyone they cast their little eyes on, and wag their tails at.

They have their own Beauty Salons, Kindergartens, Babysitters, and couture Clothes.

They go with their elegant owners to Fashion Shows, Oh the Life of a Dog in Paris is Truly Tres Magnifique !!

Abientot from Paris (Doggy Heaven)

Heather xxx

Paris Shops

2009-01-24T13:36:00.000-08:00

The Shops in Paris are a joy to behold, from the large Department stores "Galeries Lafayette" and "Le Bon Marche" to the Charming little un antiquaire.

There is something for everyone from the Designer Shops Yves St Laurent, Chanel, and Colette to the smaller Chic boutiques, shopping in Paris is every Woman's Dream.

Their cute little Bookshops like "Shakespeare and Company" I could browse in for Hours, and "La Hune" on Boulevard St Germain. I could Happily spend a couple of hours totally transfixed with their Interior Design Books, not to forget "Taschen" on Rue De Buci ( I did most of my Xmas shopping in this gorgeous shop ).

So the city of Light is definitely a Shoppers Mecca.

Abientot Heather xx

Bonnee Scotland

2009-01-19T10:05:00.000-08:00

Christian and I made a Detour from Paris and went to Ireland and Scotland ( a mere 2 Hour Flight from Paris ) to let him see his Heritage in Scotland.

Ireland was extremely Scenic and green, especially Blarney. We travelled from Blarney to Cork, then down to County Kerry.

Next day caught the Train to Belfast, and stayed over night in Larne. Then we caught the Ferry from Belfast to Stranraer in Ayeshire, Scotland. It was quite Emotional for Christian seeing Scotland for the first time arising out of the Mists. We travelled by Bus to Ayr and stayed in a Charming old Scottish Hotel called "The Station Hotel" which was nearly 200 years old.

We collected a Rental Car and proceeded to Alloway to see 'Robert Burns', the famous Scottish Poet's birth place. We saw the Cottage and the Brig a doon.

Consulting our Map, we headed for Loch Lomond - Home of the Buchanan Clan.

We stayed in a charming old Hotel in Luss ( on the Banks of Loch Lomond ) called "The Colquhoun Arms Hotel", which was 400 years old and apparently inhibited by Ghosts. It was where the famous English series 'The High Road' was Filmed.

Arose bright and early the next day, and travelled the length of Loch Lomond which was 23 Miles ( the largest and most beautiful Lake in Scotland ). It's beauty was Heart rending, and just made your Heart sing ! We then travelled to "Buchanan Castle" which is set in the 'Buchanan Castle Golf Club' which is in Drymen, east of Loch Lomond. It is now owned by the Duke of Montrose. We stayed in the "Buchanan Arms Hotel" ( even with Buchanan Tartan carpets ).

We also visited the Buchanan Church and the Buchanan School. One famous Buchanan 'George Buchanan' tutored Mary, Queen of Scots, and he has a huge Monument dedicated to him by the people of Killearn. So proud of our Buchanan Scottish Heritage, they are such warm friendly people the Scots.

The Buchanan motto: "I prefer the Brave"

Bye Heather xx

Petit Palais, Patrick Demarchelier Exhibition

2009-01-05T11:50:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful relaxing Sunday in Paris, we went to the exhibition of the famous French Photographer 'Patrick Demarchelier' at the "Petit Palais" on the Champs Elysees.
When we arrived there was a long queue ( french people love to queue and they do it so graciously ). Us Nouvelle Zealanders hate queuing, but we endured the wait and it was well worth it.

The Petit Palais is the most charming and elegant venue to hold any exhibition, but the

Patrick Demarchelier one was amazing.

Photographs of Film stars, Pop stars and Royalty abound, the most poignant Photo's I loved were the ones of Princess Diana, and her sons Prince William and Prince Harry.

They were such Charismatic Photographs of a Beautiful woman, and her adorable sons.

Her life was cut short, so tragically on the "Pont D'alma" Tunnel in Paris. Incidently I was in Paris with my daughter Rebecca when Diana died, and I lais Lilies on the 'Flame Statue', symbolic of the Pont D'alma. Subsequently I was interviewed by "CNN TV", recalling my thoughts on such a Tragedy as a New Zealander in Paris, so sad.

I also thought of her when we were at "The Ritz".

The Frescoes at the Petit Palais on the ceiling, Christian captured them splendidly on Camera.

There was an amazing photo of 'Robert De Niro' that was so life like, you felt you could just reach out and touch him.

We walked back up the Champs Elysees and caught the Metro home just in time for me to meet my french Architect friend 'Lawri' for drinks at "Cafe Flore" Boulevard St Germain.

We then went on to have dinner at "Maison Du Jardin" in Rue De Vaugirard.

Tomorrow Christian and I fly to Ireland, and then to Scotland so I can show him his Scottish Heritage 'The Buchanan Clan', so I will continue the Blog in 2 weeks.

Bonsoir from Paris

Heather xx

Bonne Annee From Paris

2009-01-05T07:39:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve was extremely vibrant in Paris. The Champs Elysees, and Boulevard St

Germain were lit up with amazing lights and Place Vendome, The Ritz was spectacular.

We started our evening with bubbles at Rue St Sulpice, then drinks at "Deux Magot" on Boulevard St Germain.

Then we went to "Hotel Costes" for Dinner, an amazing Hotel, interior design by 'Jaques Garcia', so Chic and the Music, Hotel Costes that I sell at "French" was playing.

Such an amazing atmosphere.

Drank Champayne for New Years, and then ended up having cocktails at The Ritz in Place Vendome, Hemingway Bar. They had a great DJ there playing great Chill Music, ended up strolling around Place Vendome, window gazing at the elegant shops, in this oh so elegant part of Paris ! Caught a cab to Rue Bonaparte ( next to where we live ) and went to the Club "Colin" for some dancing and fun. ( Christian especially enjoyed dancing with the French girls ).

All in all a Delightful evening. P.S. The Book that I am writing "My Parisian Life" is coming along very well.

A Bientot from Paris

Heather xxx

Joyeux Noel from Paris

2008-12-23T11:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas, Such an Exciting and Festive time in Paris.

We have had a wonderful time, the City being lit up with exquisite decorations, driving up the "Champs Elysees" alight with Blue Xmas Trees and amazing Decorations.

The City of Paris is aptly named "The City of Light!"

We had such Fun decorating our xmas tree at Rue St Sulpice, we celebrated with Champayne with my friend Coral from Auckland.

Then when we had finished our Bubbles, we went on to a wonderful Italian Restaurant "Marco Polo" in Rue St Sulpice. Wonderful evening - good food, excellent wine, great company.

The next night we went to look through the Beautiful Church "St Germain Des Pres", the Nativity Scene featured in the Blog were on Display in the church.

I adore this church, it has such a Spiritual feeling about it. We are going to the Midnight Service there on Xmas Eve.

The wonderful tree in "Galeries La Fayette" was amazing. Such a Beautiful Store, and such
a Pleasure to Shop there. Christian and I thoroughly enjoyed it (especially the "Moet & Chandon Bar).

Looking forward to our first Xmas together in this special City, Paris.

Merry Christmas and Bon Noel, Heather xx

Jardin Luxembourg

2008-12-17T12:12:00.000-08:00

The day started up crisp and fresh. Christian and I rugged up nice and warm, and we headed off to the 'Luxembourg Palace' to the "Andy Warhol" Exhibition.

It was amazing , such a modern exhibition housed in a Magnificent Palace. Incredible.

His work is eclectic.

Afterwards we wandered around the extremely French and formal Luxembourg Gardens, ( we are so Lucky as the gardens are just a 5 minute walk from our apartment ).

They are so Immaculate, the Lake and the Statues surrounding it.

We then strolled down Boulevard St Germain, where we stopped of at a Trendy Wine Bar called "Bordeaux" to get some Wine. Then on to catch the 95 Bus to "Pere Lachaise", the Famous Cemetary where a lot of Celebrity's have been laid to rest.

Christian wanted to see Jim Morrison's grave, who was a part of one of the most Famous Rock groups ( "The Doors" ) of all Time. His grave is the Fourth most visited Attraction in Paris.

It was a shame as Vandals had desecrated the grave and stolen the Headstone, but it was covered in Flowers and had a Lizard in place of his Headstone ( 'The Lizard King' was his cult name ) testament to his Fans loyalty. He was 27 when he died. Another grave that was covered in Flowers was the "Little Sparrow" Edith Piaf. The main grave I wanted to see, Oscar Wildes, was covered in Red Kisses. So I added one of my own.

The Cemetary is Sombre and serene, set in 108 acres, it is huge, you need a map to trace the graves! Then we finished a perfect day with dinner at "Victor Hugos Restaurant" at 'Place De Vosges' with Jean-Claude, all in all an end to a Delightful Parisian Day.

Bonnuit from Paris Heather xxx

Living in St Germain

2008-12-15T09:48:00.000-08:00

Today, woke, after a great sleep.

Headed off to the St Germain Markets, where we purchased fresh Fruit, Vegatables Poisson, Flowers and Wine.

Then, we had a Spiritual walk, through the charming St Sulpice eglise where we lit a Candle for St Therese. It is Amazing.

Christian took a Photograph and when viewed, it

showed Orbs in the photo which means Spiritual Activity. Incredible. Built in the 13th Century, the Church is a huge part of French History.

Brought to the Fore by the Film "The Da Vinci Code", which made it even more of a French Icon.

Then we wandered through the St Sulpice Christmas Markets, so impressive, we Purchased a Xmas Tree for the Apartment. It will be our first xmas in Paris All Together !!

Then had a Coffee at our Local cafe "Cafe De La Mairie ", and then Home to our cosy enclave at 17 Rue St Sulpice to get ready for our Dinner out at "Place De Vosges", Victor Hugo Restaurant with Jean-Claude.

A Bientot from Paris ... Heather xx

Paris J Taime

2008-12-11T09:29:00.000-08:00

Well we have arrived, after a long haul aboard an Emirates flight.

28 Hours, flying, as we alighted from the Plane in Paris we were welcomed with Snow.

Arrived at the Apartment in Rue St Sulpice St Germain Des Pres. It was utterly Charming, unpacked then glammed up to have Bubbles at 'Deux Magot', Boulevard St Germain with Jean-Claude.

Next day after a great sleep, discovered all the little shops surounding us. The St Germain Marche, marvellous Vegetables, Fish, Meat, fromage, so Charming the 6th Arrondisement is.

Had drinks at 'Cafe Le Pres', met super people from Iceland, so enjoyed Bubbles with them.

It has been wonderful showing my son Christian, Paris. Wandered through St Sulpice eglise, amazing atmosphere, then had Coffee at our Cafe 'De La Mairie' opposite the Church.

Then wandered into 'Christian Lacroix', expecting to see Patsy from 'Absolutely Fabulous' appear!

All in all, a wonderful start to my Parisian Adventure !! A bientot Heather x

I'm so excited...

2008-11-07T14:28:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited in getting everything organised at my beloved shop in Parnell, French, to start my wonderful Parisian life in an elegant apartment in Rue Saint Sulpice, Saint Germaine de pres. I'm looking forward to spending Christmas in Paris, my gorgeous son Christian is coming to share the special holiday with myself and my Parisian friends, especially Jean-Claude.

We'll keep you updated with my experiences in Paris, so please check back. Also keep an eye out for a chic new layout of this blog.