|
We’re going to start our 4th week of lockdown in France, we’ve gotten used to it now, we know how to respect the space of the people with whom we are confined, we don’t eat the family packet of crisps in one go, and we’re learning to do gym at home. I shared with you my daily activities in a video this week, I put it here for those who haven’t watch it (French subtitles available, click on CC / subtitles). After going around the world last week, thanks to Las Vegas, I decided to check in with my friends living all over the planet, and you're going to assist me. Let's start with Greece, which as you know has an important place in my life, since My Solo Wedding in Santorini. Greece They’re also confined since mid-March, tourist places and shops are closed, apart from supermarkets and pharmacies, unnecessary trips are prohibited, and Europeans arriving in Greece must self-confine for 14 days. In short, they’re like us, however, they took strict measures from the first case of Covid19 on their territory, on February 27, which means that the country is very little affected. I can't wait to go back there, but in the meantime let's dive back into the Greek blue with my articles: Wedding menu Thank you Santorini My first TV Show Rainy day in Athens Series about Crete Zurich Switzerland is less affected than France, with less restrictive measures so far. I haven't yet shown you the charming city of Zurich with its lake and old houses, but I will soon. London No need to introduce this European city, I talked about it a lot in my special London series: My Birthday in London Kensington Palace Design Museum Madame Tussauds I love December The Royal Mews Happy New Year 2020 or How my dreams came true In the Air 2 or Living on Mars My friends are confined like us, some show great energy and creativity, like my friend Vincent, a gym & dance teacher, who gives live lessons from home on a donation basis. Don’t hesitate to inquire on his Instagram account: @vmerouze, you won’t regret it!! U.S.A. The situation is difficult there, not all states are confined, fortunately people discipline themselves with social distancing and self-quarantine. Difficult to know when we’ll be able to go there again, fortunately there are my blog & souvenir photos: Spas around the World Las Vegas Christmas in New York In the Air (Grand Canyon) Country that welcomed me for 7 years, and which remains very dear to my heart, as proof the certificate of friendship given by the Mayor of Brisbane at the time. The measures put in place are less restrictive than in France, people are invited to stay at home, work from home is encouraged, no more than 2 people to go out or do the groceries, and only Australians can return but they’re quarantined in hotels. You can re-read my previous articles: Christmas in Brisbane My Favourite Animals Sunsets Australia Singapore Since March 24, no more entry and transit for foreigners, residents can return but only under certain conditions and with an authorisation. And as of April 7, they’ll be in total confinement like us. To relax, read my article Spas Around the World, in which I had already made you discover this Asian city. France Obviously, a little tour of France: Paris, Reims, Grenoble, Annecy, Albertville, Marseille ... To read again: My Birthday in Paris Christmas in Paris Versailles Disneyland Paris Childhood Rainy day at Epernay Champagne A special thought for my friends working for the French Embassy in Morocco, and for the French Embassy in Mali. If you need more distraction, go to the Travel Page to read more. Some of my favourite posts: Montreal Rainy day in Madrid Brussels Madagascar  Friendship has no border, no skin colour, no religion. My friends have diverse nationalities, various religions, different cultures and lifestyles, without forgetting my friends from the LGBTQ community: read Superwomen 3 again. I wouldn’t be who I am without their infallible support and their love, I think very much of you, and I’ll come to visit you as soon as this pandemic is over!! Have a beautiful week! Love & Friends, L.
0 Comments
In this difficult period, and when almost the entire planet is confined, having fun to avoid stress is essential, and I know the right place for that: Las Vegas! I’ve been there a few times, by plane and by car, discovering this city, out of nowhere in the middle of the desert, is a unique and surreal experience ... If there’s one thing that can’t happen in Vegas, it’s to be bored! Obviously, you think casino, so let's start here: Adventure is already there, just taking a stroll on the Strip, during the day, this long avenue of 4.2 miles! Don’t hesitate to take the monorail for another point of view, and to save energy for the evening. Depending on the time of year, the heat is unbearable, then, enter and visit the sumptuous hotels with their galleries and casinos. A free world tour, air conditioning included! The most surprising, a virtual sky whose light changes over the hours as if for real ... After several hours, we don't even know where we are… Egypt?? You’ll go shopping along the way for sure ... But you can also go to a Pool Party. All the big hotels organise some during the day, the right place for party animals until the evening. The biggest DJs perform, atmosphere guaranteed but you need to have money, the entry, drinks and snacks, for a whole half-day can ruin you quickly depending on the venue. On the other hand, if you have plenty of money to spend, on the menu for $125,000 you can have 6L of Dom Pérignon, 30 bottles of sparkling wine and ... a Harley Davidson! Obviously pretty hostesses bring you all this… Now if you’ve found the rare gem, you can also take advantage of the day to get married. Las Vegas has no less than 50 chapels celebrating more than 300 weddings a day. I don't know if they organise solo weddings, but since in Vegas everything is possible ...  You probably haven't forgotten about this very relaxing activity that I described in my article Spas Around the World, and there are plenty of beautiful and amazing places in Las Vegas. You can also choose a getaway to the Grand Canyon, read In the Air, I did it by helicopter, but bus excursions are also possible. By night, it's another universe to explore, at the end of the article a video by helicopter, nothing better to realise that Las Vegas is the first hotel city in the world! Shows, concerts, musicals, bars, restaurants and clubs, there’s something for everyone... More and more online parties are organised during this quarantine. It's great to keep in touch and have fun, through new ways. I believe in friendship and humanity! Take care of yourself, have a good week! Love & Party, L.  France is on lockdown, like Italy and Spain. Yes, this is dramatic and scary, I won’t try to minimise my emotions here, or to sugarcoat reality. However, this is not the first time I’m confined in my life, and I’ve been isolated in much more difficult circumstances. Still, it’s stressful and scary. You must be patient, one day after another, and hope that the situation gets better very soon. I can’t recommend enough that you respect the measures put in place, not only for you or your family, but also for the whole world. Obviously, I'm going to talk about positive thinking here and encourage you to be strong and stay optimistic. I’ve also posted a video on social media this week to tell you how I’m going through this. I put it here, for those who haven’t seen it. Another of my methods is to use hypnotherapy and meditation, guided by Marisa Peer, multi-award-winning British therapist, to attract positive vibes and improve my immune system. I believe in the power of the mind and our brain is capable of doing many wonders, so do not doubt, try, and then, you'll give me your opinion. I’ll tell you more about Marisa in a future article. Your mind doesn't care if what you say is true or false, it integrates everything you say like a robot, so don’t hesitate to repeat every day: • My immune system is strong and resistant • I can deal with any situation effectively and calmly • I like to eat healthy food to live long and very healthy • My body is a wellness making machine 24/24 • I am never sick because my body is immune to everything You can also read my previous articles: Happiness Thank you Be Positive Happiness activist  Above all, don't forget essential things, sleep properly, and eat healthily, there are heaps of superfoods to boost your metabolism. I give you a few as a reminder: • Kiwi, lemon, orange, banana • Spinach, broccoli, carrot, button mushroom • Beef, egg, herring, veal liver, cooked ham • Sesame seeds, hazelnuts • Dark chocolate (read again Chocolate), honey • Wholemeal bread, rye bread, muesli Some people also like comfort food when they’re stressed, that’s fine, do what makes you happy but vary!! Feel free to contact me if you need to talk, and not necessarily about the coronavirus: Contact. Don't forget to make some noise for the medical staff, every night at 8pm. You are not alone, and we’ll go through this together! Thank you everyone!! I put relaxation music at the end, for those who need it... Stay safe, stay strong and positive! Love & Light, L.  I miss the Greek sun, last year at that time I was writing my book in Crete: My Solo Wedding in Santorini. So, for this new episode of the Crete series, I take you to the northeast of the island. Agios Nikolaos with 27,000 inhabitants is the 5th biggest city in Crete. It was built during the Bronze Age and has the particularity of a small lagoon in the middle of the city: the Lake Voulismeni. Legend tells that Athena bathed in it. This small lake of 137 metres in diameter, was later connected to the port, by a canal dug by the French Army in 1907. This little town is absolutely charming, I love it. It offers countless views of the city and the sea. I like wandering through its streets or relaxing on a bar terrace ... From Agios Nikolaos, departure by boat to Spinalonga Island. This island was used in ancient times as an army base, with a fortress erected in the centre, to protect the port of Elounda (coastal city). In 1579, the Venetians reused this space and built a large fortress, with high walls and circular bastions on the hill. These are the vestiges we rediscover today. Then, the Turks took possession of it from 1715 to the beginning of the 20th century. In the time of Coronavirus... It wasn’t long ago that people who had leprosy were isolated in leper colonies to protect healthy people. Spinalonga was, from 1904 to 1957, a place of confinement for lepers. Without real help from the Greek government, they learnt to survive on this island. Finally, in 1957, sick people were transferred near Athens to be healed. Leprosy is still present today in a hundred countries in the world, including India, Brazil, Indonesia, Nepal, Mozambique, Madagascar ... Since 1976, the island has been protected as an archaeological site and buildings from the 20th century have been destroyed, leaving only the Venetian vestiges. And if you missed my previous articles on Crete: Crete Episode 1 - Heraklion Crete Episode 2 - Rethymno Crete Episode 3 - Lassithi Plateau Crete Episode 4 - Chania And since sunsets always inspire me a lot (read Article Sunset), a magnificent Cretan sunset to finish:  Take care of yourself and others. Have a good week! Love & Light, L.  Tomorrow March 8 will be International Women’s Day, although I’m not waiting for a special day to celebrate us, as my Superwomen Series can attest, I obviously wanted to share this pride with you this week. The very first one took place in 1909 in the United States, however it’s in 1977 that the United Nations officialised this day. During the vows of my Solo Wedding in Santorini, I had a thought for all women, and I said: "A thought for all young ladies, women, spouses, mothers around the world, being a woman is our strength." If we are many to be sure of it, let's use this day to let the world know it! Sexism, misogyny, discrimination, violence and torture will never silence our voices, because there’ll always be another woman to testify, protect, claim. Sisterhood is very real, women who support each other, but not only, many men who are also by our side. So, thank you to all those who fought for us, who do so today, and to all who’ll fight for our children. And in memory of them, today I’d like to speak of an exceptional woman, a woman with an immense courage and a limitless audacity: Joséphine Baker. She was born American (in 1906) but died French (in 1975). Her real name was Freda Josephine McDonald, woman of colour, in a racist and divided America, she was involved in every fight as a: woman, artist, resistant, mother and activist. Attracted by dance and cabaret from a very young age, and to escape poverty, at 14 she danced in a troupe, then at 16 left for New York, it was finally in 1925, spotted by a rich American woman who puts on a show in France - the Revue Nègre - that she arrives in Paris. Her success was immediate. Avant-garde, she doesn’t care about conventions and follows her convictions; the first international Black star, she sung all over the world, and she used her fame many times to defend what seemed right to her. Thus, she helped the French Resistance during the Second World War, later, she militated against racism in the world. Therefore, she adopted 12 children of different nationalities. She was also, alongside Martin Luther King for the Civil Rights Movement. The following video recounts the important moments in Joséphine Baker's life... No matter what you want to do in life, believe in yourself and in your dreams ... As a child, my great friend Barbie helped me build myself, and yes, we can be a feminist and love Barbies! One of my favourites was Barbie Business with her pink suit and briefcase. At 6 years old I dreamed of being a businesswoman as much as a princess, we have every right to be all. I’d like to remind here, an intelligent woman can also be beautiful and attractive!! Today the brand goes even further, and many jobs are represented, including firefighter, astronaut, engineer, airplane pilot ... Read my articles: Barbie Exhibition Single Champagne Superwomen Superwomen 2 Superwomen 3 Superwomen 4 2 Years Anniversary 
French law prohibits me from freezing my oocytes, I went to Spain. I would not let men decide my life. It belongs to me just like my body. Reread: Gift from Science Gift from Science 2  I wish one day, every human being on Earth, will have the right to dignity ... Have a great week! Love & Conviction, L. P.S.: And when the world is saved by a woman! A few girls asked me what my beauty routine was, so I thought I should reveal some of my secrets... Even if I look pretty the way I am when I wake up, I do a few things to look even prettier before to go out, and when I want extra confidence I apply makeup, but it’s optional for me especially during summer. With the videos now (read Happiness Activist), I even need to give extra attention to my skin. I’m not going to lie, I use lots of skin care products, but it takes only a few minutes and it’s worth it, especially when people think I’m 10 years younger than my age!  Morning:
Let’s use visualisation to explain you the difference between a serum and a cream. Take a bed, you have a bed base and a mattress, the base underneath is the serum, and the mattress is the cream. You need both to have a maximum comfort and result.
Night:
Weekly: For this special day, I use a beauty device with a combination of accessories: brushes, sponges and a rolling massager, to clean, exfoliate and improve blood circulation.
Quarterly: Professional beauty treatment: deep cleansing + appropriate treatment (depends of my skin at this period) This routine works at any age, you just need to adapt the right products for your skin, your needs and expectations. Some want to prevent aging, even if they’re 20, others only look for comfort…Everything is available on the market. Just try and create your own perfect beauty! It works for guys too!! I haven’t used yet any cosmetic surgery or fillers, and I’m trying to postpone this step for as long as I can with this beauty routine. Don’t forget the basic rules: food & sleep!! They are for sure essential for your skin. And confidence really, since my solo wedding in Santorini, I gained a lot of it, and I totally embrace who I am without artifice. Selflove to increase your inner beauty… Being beautiful is firstly in your mind, if you feel beautiful, people will see you beautiful! Put some nice messages on your mirror: you are beautiful, you are lovable, you are enough… Reading them every day will increase your self-esteem, I talk more about positive thinking in my article Be Positive, go and read it again. And I share positive vibes on Instagram, every day in my stories, to help people and me, to go through the day. Watch it!  My previous beauty articles: Helena Rubinstein Spas Around the World Navy hair Titanium Heart Watch Shakira (43) & J.Lo (50) at the end of the article, to see how to be stunning at any age!! Let your natural beauty shine! Love & Care, L. "Shine from inside to make your world look brighter ..." L. Everything is a question of angle in life, there’s no right or wrong answer, it’s our choice to see the glass half full or half empty. And I chose not only to see it full, but also to see it filled with magic! Obviously, I didn’t find wonderful that my fiancé broke up 3 months before our wedding, but I still pulled out of my hat, a fabulous Solo Wedding in Santorini. No, you don't become an expert on positive thinking overnight, you need to work on it, and I’ve already shared some tips with you in my Happiness Series: Happiness Unicorns Thank you Freedom Single Be Positive  Since the creation of the blog, and among all the wonderful people I’ve met, many have told me how much my energy and my vision of life had impacted their lives. But you wanted more from me, you asked me to share my positive vibes… To be happy is not only a right, it’s a duty to make our world a better place. So from now on, I declare myself an Happiness Activist - this is what is written on my Instagram profile - I decided that you were part of my movement, and to further grow our action, videos are now available! 😊 There are already 3 online: Introduction - Who am I? Happy Valentine's Day or How to be happy without a date Cake for Love or My recipe for a loving relationship These videos are on: My videos are recorded in English, but French subtitles are available on YouTube, click on CC/subtitles + English. There’s also a new page on the blog called Videos (look at the top of the menu). In short, you can't miss them… I share with you my tips to be happy every day, including the days when we just want to stay in bed! It's easy, funny, effective, above all I offer you my smile and my positive energy. If there’s a particular topic or question you want me to address, don't hesitate, leave a comment below, or contact me on my Contact page. No matter which social medium you prefer, I’m available on: Instagram Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube While my articles on the blog are published on Saturdays, the videos will be online at the beginning of the week, however exclusively, I’m going to share my new video now. Last week I talked about my favourite spas, so we stay a bit in this mood… Have a good week! Love & Happiness, L. I insisted a lot last week on the importance of loving yourself in my Letter to Cupid. And loving yourself also means taking care of yourself, listening to yourself and taking time for yourself. I know perfectly how to take care of myself. You already know that I love to travel, but you don't know that I take advantage of my stays, to visit the most luxurious spas in the world. Disconnecting from the world and being pampered, this is my anti-stress and anti-aging secret! As Helena Rubinstein said: "Beauty is nothing without taking care of the body" (read Article). Today, I’ll make you dream, travel and relax by making you discover my Top 5.  It’s at the top of the list, and before it changes, it’ll take time ... The Qua Baths & Spa at the Caesars Palace Hotel in Las Vegas! When we say that everything is excessive in the United States, and even more in Las Vegas, it’s not an exaggeration. There are countless luxury spas out there but I chose this one for a very specific reason: there’s a cabin where it snows!! Yes, yes, you read that right. After the sauna, you’ll relax in this unique room in the world, called the Artic Ice Room, where the snowflakes and obviously the temperature, calmly drop your body by a few degrees. It's magical! I don’t know how long I’ve been in, but I may have the record hahaha. 50,000-square-foot of amenities, enough to quickly make you forget how many dollars you lost at the casino. The Roman Baths, that's how they call them, consist in 3 pools at 3 different temperatures. In addition, there's a huge hot tub, sauna, hammam and a beautiful relaxation room with a nice buffet with snacks and drinks. You don’t need to stay at the hotel to make an appointment, however you’ll be asked to pay at the reservation. I'm going to stay in the U.S. for a moment, to tell you about the spa of another very prestigious hotel, the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills. I admit that already when we arrive, we feel transported into another universe, so mythical ... The spa isn’t big, but it’s one of the best body treatments I’ve had in the world. And for good reason it was made with vodka. This alcohol is as good inside as outside hahaha. It was a few years ago, and the treatments change regularly. However, I’ll definitely go back, they’re cutting edge of skincare. And I love the huge dressing tables in the locker room that make us think we are Hollywood stars! Remember, I said in my last article (Letter to Cupid) I liked having my hair washed, I love having my body washed too hahaha. I wonder if I wasn’t Cleopatra in a previous life?? Then, follow me at the Banyan Tree Spa in Singapore. No need to stay at the Marina Bay Sands hotel, the spa is completely independent and located on the 55th floor of Tower 1. Here, I’m always treated like a Queen, what I love about skincare in Asia is, that the therapists systematically clean our feet, in a pretty bowl of warm water with fresh flowers and soap, before any treatment. My favourite treatment in this spa lasts half a day, cleansing, scrub, massage from head to toe without forgetting the bath with fresh flowers, overlooking the bay. Given the specifics of this treatment, I was entitled to a suite, with a living room, a dressing room and a bathroom. You end up believing yourself at home… In all Banyan Tree spas, the traditional Asian decor and furnishings are always exquisite, with lots of texture and neutral, warm tones. In the relaxation room, with a panoramic view of the city and the gardens, we are served tea, yogurt and fresh fruits. Or how to gently reconnect to the world… The Banyan Tree and I have a long love story that started in Thailand, country of this institution and brand. You can find their hotels all over the world (one of the last opened in Morocco, video at the end of the article) and I’m taking you to discover another of my favourite spas from the Banyan Tree group, but this time in Vietnam! It’s here I came to recover before my Solo Wedding in Santorini, needed to isolate myself from the world and get some energy back, the Banyan Tree Lang Co was the perfect place and here I was staying in a villa with a private pool, view on the vegetation and the mountains. My haven of peace… I had 2 to 3 treatments a day, which occupied a good part of my days. What I particularly like about their spas is that they use their own products and incense. And as a regular, I can quickly recognise their scents. Not to mention that everything is done to pamper yourself, from the bathrobe to the slippers, but also all the products available in the bathroom. Since we're in the fragrance, let me finish this article with the spa that uses my favourite skincare products: Pure Fiji. Made with coconut oil and milk, and enriched with flower extracts, this local brand provides the most luxurious spas on the island. My favourite scent: the frangipani flower… As the name suggests, we’re talking about Fiji! In addition to the products used, what I love about this spa is the small half-sheltered pool, nestled between the steam room and the sauna, with a view of the sky, when it rains, it's even more relaxing!! The space is very large and quiet, in a big independent villa in the centre of the hotel. Again, I was staying on site, at the Intercontinental Resort and Spa. A hotel paradise on a paradise island. This is the only place where my bathtub was on the terrace, I loved it! Obviously, there was no vis-à-vis and a curtain could always protect me from prying eyes hahaha. And if after all that I was still not relaxed, there were the breathtaking sunsets on the beach! (Check Sunsets) I hope I’ve relaxed you with this article. I still have a lot to show you and I have even more to visit, some dreams never stop ... It's good for your health and mood, so don’t hesitate, there are spas all over the world, with offers at all prices! Have a lovely week! Love & Spa, L. Here it is, February, and it’s urgent for me to send my letter to Cupid ... Of course I believe in Cupid, as I do in Unicorns (read article) and in Santa Claus. In the same way that we send a Letter to Santa (to reread), and between us we know very well how much he appreciates, I told myself that I should do the same for Valentine's Day, I’d like to help Cupid to shoot the right arrow this year! I’ve certainly thought about it a lot, while writing my book My Solo Wedding in Santorini, I know exactly what I’m looking for or rather who I’m looking for...  Cupid, do you know that there are 5 love languages according to Gary Chapman? • Words of Affirmation • Quality Time • Receiving Gifts • Acts of Service • Physical touch It works both ways: the person whose love language is receiving gifts for example, will feel loved when someone give them something, but it’s also in this way that they’ll express their affection towards someone they love. It’s important to know it to be able to communicate serenely. But to understand exactly what that means, this great video: Gary Chapman (born in 1938) is an American Baptist pastor, author, and marriage counsellor. His book The 5 Love Languages: The secret to love that lasts - and others that followed - has helped millions of couples and people in search of their soul mate. There’s a test at the end of the book to determine your language, you can also go to his website: here. This book is in the library of my Ipad, and I take it with me everywhere! Cupid, my first love language is "Quality Time", so I'm not necessarily looking for a man who has the same language, but explain to him that to satisfy my love tank, he’ll have to give me time without distraction or phone. Also, tell him to look at my Blog, he’ll discover a lot about me, we’ll save time. Above all, he should reread my article Titanium Heart in which I give my definition of love. If he doesn’t like reading, well, here is the video, easy! Then, I have very specific and absolutely mandatory requirements: • Buying me designer shoes. My readers know how important shoes are to me: Article Shoes Forever • Bringing me a peppermint mocha! I haven't had any since 2017, I'm craving for one: Article Coffee Addict • Also, I love when someone washes my hair with a scalp massage, that’s why I spend so much time at the hairdressing salon: Article Navy Hair • Giving me flowers, if possible my favourites: Article Flowers • Letting me eat chocolate!! This was my 2019 Valentine’s Day post: Chocolate, Sweetheart. Finally, many years ago, I don't remember how or why, I promised myself to marry the man who would give me a striptease! Obviously, proof it has never happened before, I married myself. And male shows like mentioned in my Birthday in London don't count, that would be too easy… I know Cupid, I ask you a lot, but you know I like challenges and I always encourage people to surpass themselves, you can do it!! Don’t forget you are the God of Love (in Roman mythology), son of Mars and Venus, nothing is impossible for you. Don’t hesitate to shoot several arrows, I won’t be offended, the female cheetah, the only feline who chooses the male, sometimes it needs to meet 7 males before deciding.  What I'm doing for Valentine's Day, well, if Cupid hasn't found anyone for me, surely, I’ll do like last year, a good dinner prepared by me, with a good bottle of wine while watching my favourite movie: The Holiday. This is an old film, but I never get tired of it, I find it very inspiring and it always cheers me up! If you're single (or not) and have no plans, don't put yourself under pressure, it doesn't matter. Do something you enjoy, hang out with your friends or read my Article Single… The important thing is to have confidence in the future and to enjoy every moment! Life is too short and precious to stop smiling. I never really feel alone because I'm an excellent company! With my Solo Wedding, I discovered all the love and respect I had for myself. Really it all starts here, loving yourself honestly and deeply. Excerpt from my book My Solo Wedding in Santorini: I discovered all this love for myself during my solo wedding, I was not aware of it before. I have always had a good self-esteem and self-confidence, but love is something else, it is the ultimate level from which everything flows. We must also embrace our weaknesses and recognise that we are human despite everything, it is normal to have pain, as it is normal to ask for help. Sadness I had a lot, anger too, I went through all the emotions, all phases. To refocus on oneself is not being selfish or egocentric, it is to be shrewd and wise. You know in the plane, during the safety instructions, we are told that when the oxygen masks are released, you must first put it on yourself so that you can take care of others afterwards. To love oneself is the same thing, one must first take care of oneself before being able to love and care for others.  "Love is like breathing. Give & receive, inhale & exhale…" L. Remember you are my one and only, including you Cupid, Have a great week and Happy Valentine's Day! Love & Cupid, L. How not to speak of this woman who created my obsession for this word: empire! A few years ago, when I was developing a personal business project, it was Helena's journey that inspired me and made me want more. The executive summary of my business started with this introduction: Helena Rubinstein moved from Poland to Australia in 1896, with no money and little English. Today, thanks to the magnificent exhibition "The Adventure of Beauty" which took place in Paris in 2019 at the MAJH, I’ll make you discover her story and why she's a great source of inspiration for me. Believe me Helena Rubinstein is a woman to know… A complex and determined woman, she’s undoubtedly one of the pioneers of feminism. Born Chaja Rubinstein in Cracow (Poland) in 1872 in a modest Jewish family, she refused an arranged marriage and the life they wanted to impose on her. In 1896, at the age of 24, she took the boat alone for Australia. In 1902, she created her first Valaze face cream, and a year later opened her first beauty salon in Melbourne (Australia). Passionate about fashion, she dressed in Chanel, Poiret, Worth, Dior, Balanciaga, Rodriguez, essential according to her as an ambassador of a beauty brand. Collecting art from 1908, she was friends with the greatest artists: Chagall, Dali, Picasso, Marcoussis… An exhibition with her collection of African art is currently in Paris at the Musée du Quai Branly-Jacques Chirac till June 28, 2020. I put a video at the end of the article for you (sorry it's in French but you can enjoy the images). She also contributed to many museums and was also the model of many works of art. In 1914, she left Europe to open her first beauty salon in New York. She therefore collaborated with the greatest architects, interior designers and artists. All her life, art was an important part of her creativity. Famous names were in charge of her salons, shops, adverts but also of her residences. With great attention to detail and innovative, she never stopped inventing, among other things, she’s responsible for the classification of skin (dry, normal and oily), sunscreen, mascara in a tube and beauty salons... Between 1915 and 1918, her business expanded in the United States with the opening of a factory and the first school of beauticians. In 1939, thanks to the collaboration with the inventor of the first waterproof mascara, Helena created the event by organising a nautical ballet to introduce the product. Huge success. A year later, this is the opening of a male beauty salon in New York! For Helena, beauty was a weapon in the fight to make women equal to men. By feeling beautiful in her body, a woman gains self-confidence, she feels bold and becomes emancipated. "Beauty is nothing without taking care of the body." Helena Rubinstein Taking care of the body, so obvious for her, not only facials, but also massages, dietetics, breathing and physical exercise. She even created her own gym class “Rubinstein Rhythmics”. Science serving beauty, essential to innovate, be credible and listened to, she visited her factories in white coat. Above all, she understood how to use the image in the service of business: marketing! But Helena was also a philanthropist, in addition to Art, in 1953, she created a foundation for the education of disadvantaged girls. She loved beautiful things, fashion, jewellery, art and science. She travelled a lot, set up her salons and left her legacy in Melbourne, Sydney, Vienna, Paris, New York, London, Tel Aviv ... A citizen of the world, a superwoman. Married, mother of two, divorced and remarried to a man 23 years younger, she didn’t forget to be a woman behind the business woman. She died in New York at the age of 93. The Helena Rubinstein brand was officially created in 1920. 100 years old this year! Had the young Chaja ever imagined such an adventure and such a heritage? We can only respect her audacity, her decadence and her perseverance! Read again my other articles from the Superwomen Series. I don't have an empire yet, but I'm working on it more than ever, and My Solo Wedding in Santorini will certainly leave my mark in the memory of many people. Good week everyone, take care of yourself! Love & Beauty, L.  Last week, we've been to Mars, let's get back on Earth... For this new article, we’ll travel again but this time, telling you about my solo wedding and also delivering a new passage from my book My Solo Wedding in Santorini. Excerpt: I did not mention to the hotel that the groom would not be here, so I went alone to the reception in May 2017, and after taking a deep breath, I explained to the very warm receptionist Emanouela, my story and the new organisation. Once again, the reaction of my interlocutor shocked me while her smile comforted me. She understood my pain and saluted my determination and my courage. In a few minutes, I had just found an unconditional support for my wedding, but not only, because this young woman was going to become one of my best friends. My instinct had made me choose the best place to stay. I could not have gone through all of this without all these incredible people along the way. When we experience a heartbreak, it is already difficult to leave home, so taking a plane alone to go to marry myself in a foreign country, this is a crazy challenge, or the need of a psychoanalysis, probably both! It was therefore at Ampelonas Apartments in Imerovigli that my guests and I stayed for several days. And I’ve been there many times in the past 3 years, including for my First Wedding Anniversary. I had already given you details in my article Behind the Scenes of my Solo Wedding. And anyway, we always like seeing photos of Santorini (read my article again including a very nice aerial video). Since then, the management and name of the hotel changed, and it has been renovated ... Thank you to all the old Ampelonas team, more than a hotel, you were my refuge in the storm, the cradle of my rebirth, and I hope to return to Santorini in 2020!! φιλάκια  Find all the articles of my Solo Wedding: here News of my book: here Don’t forget to follow me on social media @blogaboutl: Have a lovely week! Love & People, L. I’ve already talked about the London Design Museum and there’s a job I wanted to do when I was little ... astronaut ... Space has always intrigued me enormously, as an eternal dreamer, certainly that being able to reach the stars will always be my wish. And as to keep my beliefs alive, a wonderful exhibition tells our fascination for Mars, until February 23, 2020.  Humans have always been interested in the sky and the stars, therefore, Egyptian astronomers discovered the presence of Mars between 2,000 and 1,000 years BC. It was an exciting civilisation, you learnt about it already from my articles Tutankhamun and Happy New Year 2020. The Babylonians noted their observations on Mars on clay tablets 1,000 years BC. Mars is also mentioned in old Hindu almanacs, especially for its astrological significance. The progress of science has allowed more and more precise observations, especially in 1659, thanks to a more efficient telescope which made it possible to determine the size of this planet. Finally, in 1965, NASA took the first photos of Mars from space, then in 1971, the first video from its surface by a Soviet probe. If cinema has imagined many scenarios on Mars, reality is starting to catch up with fiction. In 2020, 4 equipment launches are planned (the United Arab Emirates, Europe, China and the United States), and in 2022 Japan and the United States (watch the NASA's video below). The ExoMars Rover presented during this exhibition is part of the 2020 mission and will land on Mars in 2021. It’s an incredible mobile laboratory equipped with 9 scientific instruments allowing it to analyse any kind of composition, whether geological or organic. This is the result of the ExoMars Program, a collaboration between ESA (Europe Space Agency) and Roscosmos (Russia). Their goal is to find out if there was living organisms on Mars, or even if there are still. We are learning more every day and being able to see what's going on on this planet is fascinating… The rockets, the equipment, we've come a long way since the 1950s. From housing to food, through clothing, everything is thought out and made in every detail. Today, it would take between 150 and 300 days to reach Mars, depending on the launch speed and the position of the 2 planets. Better already love flying and rollercoasters, like me (Reread Halloween 2019). The idea of a base camp in space, orbiting around March, is an option developed by NASA and ESA. But an architectural competition was also held to find out what could be the housing solutions for the first settlers. Keep in mind that the resources between our planets are very different, for example the lack of water on Mars. It must also be said that we cannot take all the necessary equipment, hence the use of the 3D printer with Martian topsoil as material for example. When living on Mars becomes almost a reality ... Most countries, 76 in total, have a national space program today, however 13 are capable of launching and only 3 can send humans into space: the United States, Russia and China. In 2013, India became one of the four countries that successfully put a satellite into orbit around Mars. But its success is much greater because this is the only country to have succeeded on the first attempt, all this with very reduced costs. Miniature versions were created to show them on the streets and accustom the Indians to the space program. Private companies have also been created to develop their own technology, we obviously find Elon Musk (Paypal, Tesla) with SpaceX (2002) and Blue Origin (2000) by Jeff Bezos (Amazon). NASA plans to send the first humans to Mars in 2035, Elon Musk announces a mission in 2024. Many questions arise then, what nationality will we have? Aren't we going to modify or even destroy this new planet? Do we simply have the right to freely colonise Mars? In our quest for discovery and curiosity, we too often forget the negative or even harmful consequences of our actions. The debate is open… Fascinating Mars, but not as pretty as our beautiful blue planet! When these missions were looking for candidates to become the first settlers, I wanted to apply, but I didn’t do it. I didn’t give up on this dream, I just decided to be patient. I’m already giving you the invitation but I’m planning to celebrate my 90th birthday on this planet, so save the date: July 2070!! By then, we'll have solved a lot of problems and also, figured out how to teleport?!? I still wonder when will be the first Solo Wedding on Mars!! No way I miss that. In the meantime, we'll just re-read In the Air 1 and watch the movie Top Gun 2 which will be released in June 2020! Who has goosebumps when hearing the music? At the end of the article, video live from the International Space Station, it's beautiful and relaxing... Have a good week and keep your head in the stars! Love & Mars, L. Last week in the article Happy New Year 2020, I told you that I’ll continue to tell you about my adventures of 2019 as well as my new dreams ... I spent half the year 2019 in Greece and more particularly in Crete, you know how attached I am to this country, I largely shared my discoveries with you: Crete, Episode 1 to 4, and a new episode coming soon. Rainy Day in Athens First TV interview: Behind the Scenes Santorini  Athens Not to mention that I’m always happy to give you more details about my solo wedding: Wine in Santorini 2 Years Anniversary My Wedding Dress Once upon a time Why a book Blog Guide  In May 2019, I celebrated my 2nd Wedding Anniversary while my book My Solo Wedding in Santorini was just finished. May 27, 2017, Santorini, Aegean island (Greece). I am about to go down the magnificent stone stairs holding my father's arm, to participate in the wedding I have been waiting for, and preparing for a year and a half. The guests are seated. The weather is capricious. However, this ceremony is special, the groom is not here. He left the marital ship three months before, and I took the decision to marry without him, to marry myself! L. Hopefully 2020 will see the publication of this book 😊  In February 2019, I went to see my favourite Greek singer in concert, believe me that I was really looking forward to this. His name: Nikos Vertis. He’s a very popular singer in Greece, he was born in the Netherlands and grew up between there and Greece. He sings in Greek (mostly love songs) accompanied by some traditional instruments. Thank you to my friends who made this dream come true!! I love you! And Nikos too!! In 2020, I plan to continue to learn Greek language, by the way I often work in music with Nikos. On my bedside table: my wife, my boyfriend and my husband hahaha!! If I celebrated my Birthday in Paris in 2019 with my friends, I also dreamed of seeing the fireworks in front of the Eiffel Tower, it was done on July 14, 2019 during the national day. A great moment of excitement and happiness.
But I celebrated my Birthday a second time in London, I told you a lot about this city in my previous articles and all the great things I’ve experienced: My Birthday in London The Royal Mews Kensington Palace Madame Tussauds I love December The Design Museum I visited friends I hadn't seen in 2 years, and I made incredible new friends!  I also introduced you to new destinations in 2019: Montreal & the Barbie Museum Las Palmas Madagascar Brussels Epernay Sunset In the air Exhibitions: Jean-Paul Gaultier and Balmain Manolo Blahnik Tutankhamun Bird Paradise My lifestyle and my interests: My Favourite Animals Chocolate, Sweetheart Halloween 2019 Childhood Music Single Saturday Superwomen 4 And I’d like to highlight, my articles on positive psychology: Be Positive Thank you More than 40 blog posts in 2019, and 2020 will see videos on YouTube and Instagram. Thank you for all your messages and comments on the blog and social media, having you in my life is the most beautiful thing I could imagine. Don't worry, in 2020, I’ll continue to give you the keys to open your mind, to help you reach happiness and to have the courage to be who you are!!  New Year’s fireworks around the world at the end of the article :) Have a good week and continue to believe in your dreams! Love & 2020, L.  I wish you all a wonderful year 2020! May it bring you joy, love (and self-love), happiness, health, self-discovery, personal development, inner peace, and above all the realisation of your dreams!! I hope your holiday season went well, that you enjoyed your family, your friends and yourself ... In my article Single, I mentioned the many things that I do alone, certainly, 2019 was not as busy as 2018 (read article Happy New Year 2019) but I’m still proud, and I continued to chase my dreams, some of which I’ve been waiting for since my childhood!! And to start this new year, I’d like to pursue with the London Series, a city which has been a truly enchanting place and conducive to many achievements: Fame, 30 years I was waiting for this! Some dreams take time to come true, which makes them even more magical and unforgettable. Film created in 1980 then adapted to the screen with a series that I followed assiduously, then the musical in 1988. This is the story of young artists who wish to live from their art and become famous, thus they enter the prestigious New York Art School. School created in 1936, renamed in 1984 Fiorello H. Lagardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts (named after its founder) and which has seen many talents, Al Pacino and Nicky Minaj for example. For those who haven't seen it, it's still possible in London until January 10, 2020 at the Wembley Park Theatre, and it’ll be at the Casino de Paris from January 10 to February 2. Certainly, this show made me want people to Remember my name (famous song of this show). Still in the world of entertainment and glitter, I’ve had the immense pleasure of seeing the Royal Ballet of London, at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, in its production Manon choreographed by Sir Kenneth MacMillan. The original theatre was built in 1732, and the first ballet was performed in 1734. The building has been rebuilt several times after fires. The facade, foyer and auditorium date from 1858, but the rest of the building was extensively renovated in the 1990s. The Royal Ballet was created in 1931 by Dame Ninette de Valois, and only took permanent residence at the Royal Opera House in 1946. Today Kevin O’hare has been its Director since 2012. For the record, the films the 5th Element and Billy Elliot filmed in this theatre. I keep adding ballet companies to my list: the Queensland Ballet, the Australian Ballet, the Béjart Ballet Lausanne, the Bolshoi ballet, the New York City Ballet, the Cuban National Ballet, the National Ballet of China, the Hamburg Ballet. I hope 2020 will add another one! Paris? Marseille? The English National Ballet? And for those who love ballet, a video at the end of the article – Extract of Sleeping Beauty by the Royal Ballet. I'm not sure since when I wanted to have a Paddington bear; you know him by the famous books written by Michael Bond since 1958, but also by the adaptation in cartoons and movies. I'm a fan, and I remain childlike by collecting teddy bears, so obviously this one was essential to my little family and to be even more symbolic and emotional, I bought it in Paddington in London! Because it was in this train station that this little bear was adopted by the Brown human family, with whom he continued to grow (and to make mistakes!). This bear is so emblematic that in 1994, the British tunnellers chose to pass through this soft toy, when they joined the French during the construction of the Channel Tunnel. You know I’m passionate about Ancient Egypt, you liked my article Tutankhamun very much, so it's not surprising that I dreamed of visiting one of the most famous museums in the world for its collection of Egyptian artefacts: the British Museum! This museum is the very first national public museum in the world, and it’s free!! It was opened in 1759 and has more than 8 million objects from around the world over many periods of history, which 6 million people visit every year. Above all, we find in this museum the Rosetta Stone, taken from the French after their defeat against the British during Napoleon's campaign in Egypt. It has been exhibited in this museum since 1802. The Egyptian collection covers 3 millennia, with objects of all kinds… I’ll tell you more about this fantastic museum and its other collections from around the world in another article. My resolutions for 2020: sustain my momentum, do not program anything and live driven by opportunities, new people, and obviously continue to realise old dreams and create new ones. My Solo Wedding in Santorini - which was in magazines in February and May 2019 (see Media) - continues to inspire people and I never could have imagined how much my story could help. Many people in 2019 told me that my experience has profoundly changed their lives, this is my greatest reward. Next week, I'll continue to reveal the dreams that came true in 2019 and those to come ... Feel free to tell me what your dreams are 😊. Great week everyone and happy new year again! Love & Dreams, L. After writing my Letter to Santa last week, I wondered how my gifts were gonna fit in my stocking?!?  Obviously, the car can’t fit inside, however the keys yes! Santa is very clever… For other things, however, I'm not sure:  Malyarova Olga @malyarovaolga A gift voucher for the shop! Perfect!!  Christie's New York @christiesinc No problem.  National Geographic Travel @natgeotravel I'm not sure a baby penguin fits…  National Geographic Travel @natgeotravel Well, if I have the penguin, he will need a friend ... But I don't think the stocking is big enough.  National Geographic Wild @natgeowild Nooo, I don't want an hippo! Just a spa voucher…  M.A.C. Cosmetics @maccosmetics Easy!  NASA @nasa A Star Wars cinema ticket...  Gianvito Rossi @gianvitorossi Without the box, it's doable ...  Brisbane City Council @brisbanecitycouncil A plane ticket to Brisbane to see my friends and the magnificent Riverfire!  Cassandra Lynne Bridal @cassandralynnebridal Cassandra Lynne is my favourite jewellery designer, and the one I picked for My Solo Wedding in Santorini, Santa will manage… He always finds a way to make me happy - like he always has in the past. There was one thing in particular that I put on my list every year, a typewriter. As far back as I can remember, I’ve always been fascinated by this object. I looked for hours at the brochure with the various models, obviously over the years these machines got better, then the computer replaced them. I never had a typewriter, but Santa Claus understood that my dream was quite different and it finally came true, I’m writing every day for my pleasure and yours too!  What's wrong with my Disney princess stocking? There’s no age to be a fan of Frozen, and you should know it cuz I had shown you all my Christmas decor in her effigy in my article Merry Christmas 2018. I know many of you love it too, so here's a video that is gonna give you goosebumps!! Since 2018, the musical has been a hit on Broadway (New-York, U.S.A.) and it’ll be in London in 2020! During this holiday season, we need to take time to relax, thus, I’ll put the trailer for London and the Frozen 2 movie at the end of the article 😊. Thank you, for sending me your decorations again! When I was 5 years old, I made a wish to Santa Claus to learn how to decorate the Christmas tree better than my parents… Wish that was fulfilled, and strangely this year, my parents asked me to decorate their tree, I chose the theme: The Lion King in Lapland ... I know I watch animated movies a little too much hahaha. Read my Christmas Articles: Christmas in New York Christmas in Paris Christmas in Brisbane Merry Christmas 2018 Letter to Santa (London)  No article next week, I'll be on vacation to visit my family. But follow me on Instagram every day. Next Article: January 4, 2020!! I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! Love & Christmas Magic, L. Dear Santa, I’m writing this letter to share with you some wonderful things I’d like to discover under the Christmas tree this year. My followers helped me last week with my article I Love December in London, and I’m very grateful to them. So, here’s the result of our ideas:
 I'm dreaming of it since I was a child, remember you brought me a model car then. After, you can also ask Zane Drysdale (@dryzane) to customise it for me, a talented man who makes your car sparkle like diamonds! You probably know if he’s single, if yes, I’d gladly accept a date. What do you mean, Santa? It's not your responsibility, I have to see with Cupid ... February is a long way away...  Photo Credit: Zane Drysdale Obviously as I don’t have a garage, and I’m very often In the Air (rediscover the Article), you can simply renew my public transport card (well, kind of... hahaha). You know that I’m a sweet tooth like you, then, some candies would be great, especially chocolate! Read again my article Chocolate, Sweetheart with all its health benefits. Don't worry I'll leave you some! Cuz I don’t have a man to cuddle, since I have to wait for Valentine's Day, a little company during the long winter evenings would be fantastic. As you remember my Favourite Animals, another article that you liked a lot, you know that many are protected species (turtles, lemurs, crocodiles) and therefore, they can’t live with me. It's a shame, I’d love penguins in my living room. A chow-chow could replace them, it’s certainly not very practical for travelling, ok, a soft toy then! I’m a little too old to ask for a Barbie (remember the beautiful museum in Montreal), however any clothing or accessory from a designer satisfies me, a few articles to help you: Fashion Exhibitions Hat Designer or Dream Maker? Shoes Forever Manolo Blahnik I love December Bird Paradise  For next year, could you tell me what’s the best way to send you a letter? I had thought of a bottle in the sea, but I was told there was little chance that it reaches the North Pole with the ice floe around. Then this year, I discovered sky fire lanterns, but only the stars should shine in the sky. I think now you use internet ... I have been using Portable North Pole for a few years, and I'm never disappointed, you speak several languages (English, French, Spanish and Italian), which is very convenient. There's one last thing that I’d like to ask you (watch the video below or click here): What do you mean a superhero is not real? Yet I write very often on Superwomen! (read my articles). In this case, finding a publisher for my book My Solo Wedding in Santorini is certainly my dearest wish. I’m glad to know that I’m on the nice list, I've done my best this year, and I'm thinking of my 2020 resolutions, in order to continue to do good around me and to inspire people.  Listen, if in the end you only bring me love, from my family and my friends, I’ll be very grateful. Ba careful when you deliver your presents in London, there are plenty of lights everywhere (video at the end of the article), don’t trap the sled in the wires! Don’t forget to send me your Christmas decorations, I’ll publish them on December 21st. Thank you Santa Claus, Love & Joy, L. All the months of the year are not alike, and there’s one I prefer among all, December! Besides, I shared a lot my joy, last year, with the Christmas Series: Christmas in New York Christmas in Paris Christmas in Brisbane Merry Christmas 2018 For me, this period means joy, light, sharing, and of course food hahaha. This is the moment when we think of others by writing greeting cards, looking for gifts. I always reconnect with the people I love in December. Our creativity is limitless, whether with the decoration or the menu. However, I needed ideas before writing my letter to Santa. Yes, I believe in Santa Claus, as I believe in unicorns (read my article Unicorns) and I believe in love too! And not just in December of course. We also have the right to think about ourselves during this end of year. London is the perfect city for my inspiration, inspiration that has no limit and no budget apparently!
Since we are in luxury, let's stay here but for a universe that is much more familiar to me, shoes! I mentioned this name already in my article Shoes Forever, but to tell the truth, Emmy London was the brand I wanted for my initial wedding. Regarding circumstances, I couldn’t satisfy this desire for My Solo Wedding in Santorini, but I took advantage of my stay in London to visit the beautiful shop in Chelsea. Emmy Scarterfield created her brand 15 years ago, after working for the greatest designers. Her creations are made in Portugal with top quality materials from Italy, then, all the final touch and jewellery are hand crafted in her workshop in London. In addition to a seasonal collection, she also offers custom made, the absolute dream when you like shoes like me. But what made her reputation is the bridal collection, notice the crystal on the sole: Thank you for your welcome and your kindness, I can’t wait to come back!  After so much emotion, I need a break and I know the perfect place: Fortnum & Mason. A grocery store established in 1707 by William Fortnum and Hugh Mason, today it’s a department store renowned for its tea and refinement. But this big mansion is also known for its scones and afternoon tea, and I love it! With its 5 bar-restaurants, choose the decor of your mood, I like the atmosphere of the Parlour, so cute ... This is obviously the perfect place for gifts, whether to enjoy (tea, chocolate, biscuits, wine), to smell (perfumes) or to wear (jewellery, accessories). The 3rd floor is even dedicated to gentlemen, with a barber and the 3 and 6 Bar, the perfect place for an intimate drink. And why not a teapot or china, so British! But what I really like are the Christmas decorations: Let's now discover in Soho, another colourful realm: Crumbs and Doilies. Here is the cupcake paradise. I'm sure Santa Claus comes here to feed his elves, otherwise how could they have enough energy and pleasure to work so much? You should do the same because it's not just cream and butter, it's happiness that explodes in your mouth and sweetens your mood. I'm addicted! A big thank you to the whole team, always smiling with good advice, a real ray of sunshine on rainy days. This makes me think that we are right behind a shop in close collaboration with Santa: Hamleys. Founded in 1760, it’s the largest toy store in the world with 5000 square metres spread over 7 floors. From stuffed toys to high-tech toys, and traditional games, well, if you don’t find your happiness here, you won’t find it anywhere. Not to mention dozens of employees who run workshops and shows throughout the store, kid or grown-up, you will spend hours here! What I like here too are the incredible Lego constructions. Let's finish this day at Radio Rooftop Bar, a terrace bar completely sheltered in the winter, that offers a sophisticated and elegant setting to spend time in good company. I’m sure that after a good cocktail, my letter to Santa will be written on its own! I hope this article on London have made you dream and maybe it gave you ideas ... Read my previous articles of London Series: My Birthday in London Kensington Palace Madame Tussauds The Design Museum The Royal Mews A very nice video of the city at the end of the article. As last year, don’t forget to send me your Christmas tree and Christmas decor at blogaboutl.com@gmail.com, I'll be happy to publish them in my Christmas Article on the 21st of December! Have a great week everyone! Love & December, L. Too much sadness, anger, frustration had accumulated. I couldn’t express what this destructive fire had consumed in me. And yet, I knew it had to come out for my own survival. We can’t move on and rebuild ourselves on a pile of ashes. We must clean up first. So, I washed it with a lot of grammar and typography. It was my therapy, I didn’t plan to publish it, but so many people encouraged me to share my story, the blog was just the beginning of this adventure. It was a long and difficult path, remembering while I must forget. All our story from the beginning, from the birth of love to the preparation of our wedding. Then, the unacceptable breakup. Remembering everything in its smallest details, remembering moments that I would have liked to bury deep in my mind, repress as they say in psychology. It’s nevertheless the path of healing, the one I chose. To accept to move forward, to accept the reality but also all the emotions that accompany it. I smiled, laughed, cried while writing this book. I poured my flood of love and disappointment into each of its pages. Sometimes, my feelings were too intense and took control, and nothing could come out. Other times, I couldn’t stop writing, although it was 3am. I always liked writing, but I had never finished a book. One of my dreams came true in unusual circumstances. A mixture of bitterness and pride. My book is not published yet but I'm working on it, I'm currently looking for a literary agent and a publisher. However, I wanted to share with you already, the fruit of my therapy! An excerpt will be published regularly on the new page Book (on the top right), not to mention passages in some of my articles as in: Music My Wedding Gown Once Upon a Time Read again the Blog Guide too, to enjoy fully my website. Again, thank you for your love and support, I couldn’t have done all of that without you. Below is the excerpt I chose for the occasion. Happy reading to all! Love & Book, L. My Solo Wedding in Santorini Chapter Santorini, excerpt: All the year after, I kept telling myself how lucky I was to go back to Santorini. This island had bewitched me, so magical and majestic. I had not been able to discover everything, and I was happy to see more this time. But also, to visit Santorini with the man I loved, the one who would become my husband. No doubt he would fall in love with this island just as I had been. The photos of our wedding were going to be stunning and we were going to spend an absolute unforgettable week. Because of the terrible fires that ravage Australia these days, I’d like to tell all my friends how much I think of them and I pray for them. I left this wonderful country almost 3 years ago, after having spent 7 extraordinary years there. All these splendid landscapes, this wild nature, these atypical animals and these great people, I have never felt as much at home (while I’m French) as in Australia. I already mentioned this country in previous articles: Christmas in Brisbane My favourite animals I learned to breathe (literally and figuratively), to enjoy life (and to stop at the crosswalk), to eat more healthily (love the avocado toast!), to respect my environment (we don’t kill spiders there, nor any species or insect!!), and to put my work in the background (besides I don’t work at all anymore hahaha). NSW and Victoria are currently the most affected states by fires. Victoria is under a "red code" warning. Since September, over 1.2 million hectares has burnt in NSW. Some fires continue to burn in Queensland and South Australia. Smoke has invaded the cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. The weather forecast should be better in the coming days, with less wind, hoping it helps enough. In my article Superwomen, I paid tribute to the firemen and firewomen, let’s mention them again in this article. In addition to fires, some countries are under the snow, others underwater, not to mention the earthquakes ... Disasters don’t seem to end, at the time of social media and instant connection, remember that we are part of the same planet and the same species: humanity. If the leaders of this world are only concerned about their financial interests, don’t forget that each of us can act on our level, we all have a conscience and intelligence, so let's use it! "The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything.” Albert Einstein.  Wherever you are, stay safe and take care, Love & Courage, L.  The holiday season is coming fast, and some have already started filling their cellars for the occasion. You know my passion for champagne, it will be the star for me and for many of you. And nothing better than visiting some champagne cellars when it rains! Moët & Chandon here... In my article Champagne, I explained in detail where and how these precious bottles were kept, Epernay sheltering 110km of cellars! But also, the champagne I had chosen for My Solo Wedding in Santorini. Read my previous articles: Wines of Santorini Champagne  Today, I show you the Avenue de Champagne at Epernay. Epernay, is the third largest city of Marne, after Reims and Châlons-en-Champagne, with nearly 24,000 inhabitants. The city already existed in the Gallo-Roman era, where its wine was appreciated. Siege of battles and conquests, it changed nationalities across the ages, it was also destroyed many times, especially during the First World War. In 1730, the first champagne house of Epernay was born with the brothers Chanoine, a year before, it was Ruinart in Reims (the very first champagne house). With this economy, the Avenue de Champagne has become famous. It was renovated in 2010, it extends from the Place de la Republique (downtown Epernay) on 940 meters to the east, and parallel to the Paris-Strasbourg railway. Thirty houses on almost a kilometre therefore, testimony of the history and wealth of this city. Most castles and mansions were built from the second half of the 18th century. In 1778, 7 large champagne houses were listed. Today, the Avenue de Champagne is the location of prestigious houses, but also where the magnificent city hall of Epernay is, built in 1858 for the family Auban-Moët and which was donated to the city in 1919. I always go to The Bank restaurant when I am in Champagne-Ardennes. In addition to a refined and authentic cuisine, the decor is unique and atypical. A former bank, hence its name, the basement has been converted into toilets but the safes are still there, unusual atmosphere. Their list of champagne is as long as their menu, which always takes me a long time to choose, but what a pleasure ... I confess that I don’t like rain and yet I always find interesting things to do to make me smile! Find the previous articles of the Rainy Day Series: Rainy Day in Madrid Rainy Day in Athens And if you prefer to stay at home anyway, the following video should entertain you (I give you the French version because I think it's the best...). Have a good week! Love & Rain, L. After my scary article last week Halloween, let's stay in this mysterious atmosphere to discover one of the most famous Pharaohs in the history of Ancient Egypt: Tutankhamun. Remember, I already mentioned the wonderful exhibition The Treasure of the Pharaoh in my article My Birthday in Paris. This is the most visited exhibition in France with no less than 1.4 million visitors! Today, let's see more, put on an archaeologist’s hat, without dust here ... Tutankhamun, born in 1345 BC, son of Pharaoh Akhenaton, ascends the throne at a very young age (8 years old) but dies prematurely at the age of 19 of malaria. His reign was short, 10 years over millennia, and yet everyone knows his name, thanks to Howard Carter. Howard Carter, an English archaeologist, convinced that the tomb of this Pharaoh was hidden in the Valley of the Kings, spent 7 years looking for it with the financial support of Lord Carnarvon. The first world war interrupted some time the searches but in 1922, he discovered the biggest treasure of Egypt. As you can see in the previous photo, Tutankhamun's tomb was composed of four separate rooms filled with objects of all kinds: furniture, art, statues, jewellery, fabrics, as well as sarcophagi and his mummy. The Egyptians believed in the afterlife, so they were buried with everything necessary or a representation of it, to have a comfortable next life. It will take Howard Carter 10 years to fully excavate the grave and list the 5,398 objects, representing 1.5 tons of gold, an invaluable treasure. All these magnificent creations shows the exceptional mastery of the arts and crafts of this period. For this world tour, 150 objects presented exclusively, 50 of which left Egypt for the first time. An area of 2,000 square metres, for a set insured for a billion dollars. All these objects will then return to Egypt in a new museum, the Grand Egyptian Museum, near the pyramids, which should open in 2021. For those who missed this magnificent exhibition, it’s currently in London until May 3, 2020 at the Saatchi Gallery. Another European city that I make you discover over time: click here London. Besides, I’m preparing a new article on the British Museum, where a large space is devoted to Ancient Egypt. A video at the end of the article if you want to know more about Tutankhamun and this wonderful exhibition. Have a wonderful week! Love & Discovery, L. I already explained to you last year the meaning of the word Halloween (Article Rainy Day in Athens). Be prepared to be scared with this new post, screaming is a great way to release stress, so do it!! I kept for the occasion some photos from Madame Tussauds London, warning, it’s not for the faint of heart, we enter the spaceship attacked by Aliens ... I confess I'm super fearful, haunted houses, zombies, bugs, all of that are not for me, and to tell the truth, for Madame Tussauds, I entered the ship only for you! My Solo Wedding in Santorini was less scary ... On the other hand, there is something that makes me scream like crazy but doesn’t scare me ... Rollercoasters! It's so liberating for me, to the great displeasure of my younger sister who often accompanies me and she hates it. In order to satisfy everyone, and shout safely, a deadly rollercoaster that will dishevel you (and for those who want more feeling, put a fan in front of you, it will do the trick!): And yes, I love Theme parks, I had the chance to visit many around the world, I don’t explain this passion, except that from my youngest age my parents took me to discover some. A good excuse for me now to travel around the world… Universal Studios Hollywood is obviously a classic that I encourage you to visit if you have the opportunity. A video for you, watch out for dinosaurs! Recently, I talked about the Design Museum in London, with all kinds of inventions and objects that change our lives. What about those who create new thrill rides?!? Here is a top 10 of the most impressive rollercoasters! Which one do you prefer? Reply in comments 😉 Have a nice weekend! Love & Thrill, L. This blog was created in February 2018, a year after my ex-fiancé left me during our wedding’s preparation. My name is Laëtitia, that's why the blog is called "Blog About L.". I am French mixed Vietnamese, but I lived in many countries abroad, for the past two years I travel in search of my new homeland, and almost all the photos of the blog are mine. To discover or rediscover why I created this blog, click here. With nearly 70 posts in a year and a half - I usually publish a new article every Saturday - and new readers every week, I thought a little guide to explain more would be useful. At the top right, you have access to the different pages: home, blog, media, about me, contact and French.  Blog page This is the page you are currently on. All posts are saved here, in chronological order from most recent to oldest. In the Archives on the right you can also search by monthly publication, category or keyword. At the end of each article, you can like on Facebook and Twitter, and leave a comment, just click on comment and a form appears. Media page A collection of TV and press interviews from around the world. Yes, my story went viral everywhere ... About Me page Find out who I am ... Contact page You can send me a message, ask me questions, leave me comments, everything you think about! I answer in a few days, but I always reply. Français Page This is the access to the blog in French, I write all posts in French and English myself. Home page Here, you have the last article posted online, just click on the Read More button and you are automatically redirected to the blog page.  You then find a search box that allows you to seek by keyword.  Featured Categories My Solo Wedding All the details of my wedding are explained, from the dress to the shoes, through the ceremony and the dinner, or the wines.  Beauty (and fashion) When, how and why I want to be beautiful? But also, the designers and brands that inspire me. Lifestyle My lifestyle and the ones of others because open-mindedness leads to more tolerance ... Travel All my adventures on our beautiful planet! Art The World of Art and Design of yesterday and today.  My favourite articles 1st Anniversary: my first wedding anniversary. Gift from Science: and how in June 2018, 10 of my oocytes were frozen in Madrid. 1st TV Interview – Behind the scenes: it's been just a year since I participated in my first TV show in Greece.  Then comes the form for the Newsletter, and for those who have not subscribed yet, go for it! I send you an email for each new post. Don’t forget to follow me on social media, links at the bottom of every page.  As a reminder I’ve also created some series that I’ll continue to complete: Superwomen London Crete Christmas Happiness Rainy day Here the Articles with extracts from my book My Solo Wedding in Santorini (not yet published): Once upon a time My Wedding Gown Music Some of your favourite posts: Single Coffee Addict In the air Versailles Many thanks to all the people who accompany me in this adventure, your support is immensely valuable. Have a nice weekend and happy Halloween! Love & Blog, L. Let's continue this series on London after: My Birthday in London Kensington Palace Madame Tussauds The Design Museum Today, I make you discover one of the most beautiful stables still in activity and especially the magnificent carriages and coaches that the British royal family still largely uses during official ceremonies. Semi-State Landau With the hoods that open or close, it was the favourite of Queen Victoria who liked the fresh air. Irish State Coach Purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1853. In 1876, a frieze is added to the top to honour the Empress of India. Queen Alexandra's State Coach Built in 1865 but converted with windows in 1893, it was used by Queen Alexandra until 1925. Since then, it is often used to carry the royal crown. Glass Coach It was used by Queen Elizabeth II for her wedding as her mother for hers, and many others ... Scottish State Coach A transparent roof that brings lots of light inside. On the top is a model of the crown of Scotland. Gold State Coach Delivered in 1762 for King George III, this carriage is the most impressive of all. 7.3m long, 2.5m high and 3.9m wide. It was obviously used for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Diamond Jubilee State Coach Although it looks like the previous coaches, this one is perfectly modern and was created in Australia for the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. It weighs nearly 3 tons and is equipped with 6 hydraulic stabilisers to avoid swaying. However, craftsmanship is still very present with, for example, lamps handmade by Edinburgh crystal, or door handles encrusted with diamonds and sapphires. A collection of various carriages is also open to the public, including a sleigh offered by Canada to Queen Victoria or a mini carriage for children. Obviously, all this wouldn’t work without horses and all men associated with it. Much less glamorous but nevertheless indispensable, the royal family also travels by car. I too had a nice car for my Solo Wedding in Santorini, a black Mercedes ... Have a good week! Love & Coach, L. Let’s continue with my adventures in London, my previous articles: My Birthday in London Kensington Palace Madame Tussauds Access to the permanent collection of this museum is free, only temporary exhibitions are not. Today a new museum that will make you travel through time!! But first we talk a lot about plastic waste these days, and many of us are aware of the importance of reducing it daily. I fly more often than I take the bus, this campaign presented by PriestmanGoode "Reduce, Reuse, Rethink" (Reduce, reuse, rethink) made me think. Aircraft cabin waste accounted for 5.7 million tonnes in 2017, 33% was plastic. Only 17.3% are made of recyclable materials.
Designers are looking for solutions, whether in materials, or organisation ... Inventions and fabrications endlessly. Whether in the field of medicine, everyday life, architecture or fashion, a creativity that changes our lives ... The syringe for example was invented at the end of the 19th century and its design has remained almost unchanged since then. We use no fewer than 35 billion a year. Or the fitted kitchen created by a woman in 1926, Margarete Shütte-Lihotzky (Austrian) to make it practical and logical. Objects that constantly evolve over time: phone, radio, television, computer, camera, calculator, the game consoles and so on. As far as I am concerned, the Minitel – a French invention developed by the French Post Office before internet appeared - is what marked my childhood! And no, I won’t tell you my age hahaha! For some it’ll bring back memories, and for the youngest, ask your parents or grandparents for more information!! And which object are you most grateful for? Answer in the comments below! I admit that the umbrella and the raincoat are convenient, especially in London! If you want to discover more, a video at the end of the article. Have a nice weekend! Love & Design, L. |
Author
Categories
All
Archives
April 2020
|
RSS Feed