Trial by Fromage, Learning the Art of the French Meal

Farfalle with White and Green Asparagus and Tomatoes

I wasn’t prepared when I experienced a French family meal for the first time—it happened to be the first time I met my boyfriend’s family, less than 72 hours after landing in France. To say that I was nervous would be an understatement. I fought every impulse to reach over the table and keep the […]

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The Best Carry-On Luggage for International Travel

AWAY luggage store New York City

Before I left for Paris, I was in serious need of good, quality luggage. The Search I found a matching set of large and medium luggage by Delsey, but I wanted something special for my carry-on. It only made sense to have a carry-on that would accommodate most, if not all, international restrictions. The carry-on […]

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A Photo Diary of One Week in Valencia, Spain

Valencia Spain City Center

I’m happy to finally cross Spain off of the travel bucket list! My boyfriend planned us a vacation in Valencia, Spain for the last week in June. I definitely left my comfort zone by leaving my French habits at Charles de Gaulle—I don’t know any Spanish—but we had an amazing time exploring the city and […]

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How to Shop the French Market Like a Parisian

Neuilly-sur-Seine markets

Going to the French market has taken my interest in food to an entirely new level. Don’t get me wrong, the Aquidneck Growers’ Farmer’s Market in Newport still has a very special place in my heart, but the concept of shopping at the French market for an American is an incredible sensory experience. I’m fortunate […]

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Adjusting to Parisian Life

Neuilly-sur-Seine, France sunset

I’m not even sure where to begin describing what it’s like to move across an ocean to build a new life and live with your boyfriend. I take way too pictures of street corners and flowers. I eat breakfast at 12:30 pm, because my body still thinks its 6:30 am with the +6 hour time […]

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How to Shuck Oysters with the Real Oyster Cult

Nothing like kicking off summer with fresh New England oysters I’ve been meaning to order from the Real Oyster Cult this spring, but Memorial Day weekend seemed like the perfect opportunity to share the experience with family in Leesburg, Virginia—it only seemed right to bring a taste of New England with relatives who love oysters. […]

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