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Back in Paris in July to celebrate my birthday, what you certainly haven't missed if you follow me on Instagram. It reminded me of last year (Article My Bday in Paris), then made me think back to 2018 and 2017, I take you with me on a little trip through time and space! 2017 The year of my rebirth, the new me, I was already happy and fulfilled before, but certainly not as much connected to myself as I am since my Solo Wedding in Santorini. My birthdays are always memorable, I’m surrounded by amazing people, I hadn’t celebrated my birthday in France for more than 10 years, and my sister surprised me this time. We were going for a weekend somewhere, that's all I knew, it was a surprise ... Departure from Reims station (France). Reread: For an unknown destination because I wasn't allowed to look at the signs and I had headphones on my ears ... I might as well tell you that everything was possible in my head, and I was leaning towards Holland or Ireland. It was finally my favourite city, Paris, and I don't say that because I'm French, it's unique and romantic, the atmosphere is magical and inspiring in all weathers. But it wasn’t yet my surprise ... Direction the Parisian metro, exit "Bercy" then with my amazed eyes I discover: Celine Dion concert! 2018 Returned to my magical island I missed terribly after 6 months of absence. And my heart filled with joy as the ferry approaches Santorini’s cliffs. My friend Emanouela oversees the festivities, I’ll be staying at Ampelonas Hotel again, the one of my Solo Wedding. Black sand beach, drinks with friends and restaurants, I don’t have time to be bored during my short stay, as for my birthday, it’ll remain etched in my memory. Breakfast prepared by my friend, overlooking the caldera, dinner with girls at my favourite restaurant, Rosemary at Pyrgos. Greek specialties of course as for my Wedding Menu. For this unique occasion, I’m wearing an incredible dress by designer Adolpho Dominguez, a dress that I bought myself a few weeks before in Madrid, after the freezing of my eggs. Then a bar with a DJ, surrounded by my many Greek friends, to dance and blow out my candles. Please note the cake is very special, it's my wedding cake! Finally, I couldn't end the night without going dancing in the Greek club of the island, where each time I find myself being the only foreigner, which amuses me a lot and makes me feel half Greek ... 2019 I've told you a lot about it last year: Other friends, and even more madness: unusual places like the bar on the roof of the Moulin Rouge or the famous Magic Mike Live London show. And obviously walks, restaurants and lots of cocktails, always in excellent company! I never stop being ecstatic and rejoicing in front of so many new things and discoveries, the world is fascinating ... To tell the truth, since it was my 40th birthday (reread my special article), I was planning to celebrate it with decadence in Cuba, with a hundred guests invited, luckily my intuition made me give up this fiesta in 2019, long before the Covid appears, I warmly thank my guardian angel! Everything was organised at the last minute, according to desires / ideas and available people. So, I started the party the night before, in Reims, with girlfriends, in a secret bar run by a friend, contact me here if you want to know the address 😉 A very nice place on the roof of a hotel, with a breathtaking view of the city and especially the Cathedral! You know that I love Rooftop bars, I made you discover a few already: Paris, London, Athens ... Then at midnight, I was officially celebrating my birthday with candles, champagne and macaroons, accompanied by one of my Wedding songs: The Best by Tina Turner (video at the end of the article). A few days later, I walked through the gates of an indomitable Gallic village, Parc Asterix! I like celebrating my birthday in a Theme Park, I’ve done it in the past, especially in Australia, and anyway you know how much I love that:
And finally, Paris with my best friends. Bistro and bar on the terrace in the purest Parisian tradition ... And now I’ve finally decided to extend my stay in Paris to make other dreams come true, a 2nd honeymoon, 3 years after my Solo Wedding in Santorini. I’ll tell you everything in detail, I promise! All of my birthdays are unforgettable, and I make more of my dreams come true each time, not to mention I create new ones right away. Stay tuned to find out how I'll celebrate it next year ... And thank you to everyone who participated and wished me my birthday this year, lots of bisous! Have a wonderful weekend everyone! Next Post: August 15. Love & Joy, L.
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“It is better to dream your life than to live it, even if living it means dreaming it.” Marcel Proust Yes, I shout it from my blog and social media, because I’m very proud to be 40 years old! Not that my life is perfect but more because I take happiness where it is, I expect nothing from life and so I’m resplendent and serene to use the words of my best friend.  Lifestyle It took time and patience to reach this fulfilment and I keep learning about myself and looking for the best in myself. This was part of my vows during my Solo Wedding in Santorini: “I promise to always raise the bar in everything I do because the most important is not to achieve goals but the path to reach them.” My lifestyle reflects my personality, I don't like rules, then I’ve created mine: “I promise to continue doing nothing like everybody because everyone is unique.” I’m sharing this with you in the Lifestyle category But also, my happiness tips on the Videos page Not to mention all the articles about my Solo Wedding in Santorini: Link.  Beauty “To promise oneself things is the hardest of challenges, the best is to take them up.” And one of my current challenges is to beat time and stay young!! I have to admit that genetics have been generous to me and I look younger. It must also be said that since I was 14, I’ve been taking care of my skin and anti-aging creams have no secrets for me. Great habit because I’ve never been so proud to say my age. Reread: You also know that I take care of my body and my mind, and I’m not going to stop since I want to visit the planet Mars one day (read again In the Air 2), so I must stay in perfect shape!  Travel “Today and forever I promise myself to follow my instinct and to trust my lucky star.” My life has been, and is always rich in adventures and meetings, my happiness is in this constant search for novelty and open-mindedness. My curiosity is limitless, and my lucky star is always there to guide me in the right direction… I’ve lived in 6 different countries and visited no less than 25 countries in the world, some of which I’d never have imagined discovering one day like Papua New Guinea! I’ve already shared with you many of my trips: Check Travel Category  Art “I promise myself to enjoy every moment as if it were the last, to shake up the codes and to create opportunities because time is an eternal present.” Living my life is art ... I live in the moment, regardless of tomorrow or what people think, I don't fit in any box, and an A4 sheet wouldn't be enough to describe myself. There are so many people and artists who inspire me every day, celebrities as much as Anonymous: Category Art. Writing is my medium of expression as I show you on this blog and with extracts from my book: link. Photography is also important to me as I told you last week in The 4 Elements. Art is a lifestyle and I’ve adopted mine, without compromise or pressure, with love and respect.  Superwomen “A thought for all young ladies, women, spouses, mothers around the world, being a woman is our strength.” I couldn’t finish this article without talking about women obviously, I often put them in the spotlight on my website and on my social media: Superwomen category. I’m fortunate to be a 40-year-old woman, independent and free to live my life as I wish, I’m extremely grateful, it’s a precious gift and this is the reason why I must be happy. Finally, for those who haven’t watched it yet, the video I’ve recorded for my birthday: “My life is a constant series of dreams and I promise to keep following this way!” It’s never too late to live your life and realise your dreams. Don't be afraid, life is beautiful! During summer holidays, I only publish fortnightly. Next article: July 18. Love & Joy, L. It was my sister’s birthday this week and we celebrated it wearing Disney princess dresses & watching Frozen 2, fun is not just for kids! It’s sometimes good to go back to childhood to let our imagination wander and express itself freely. Dreaming is good for your health ... Besides, I should have mentioned this in my article last week Healthy Routine, because it’s certainly part of my daily life. Re-read my previous articles: So, this animated film gave me inspiration for this week’s article.  The 4 elements: Air, Fire, Earth and Water come from a Greek hypothesis dating from the 5th Century BC according to which everything in our world would be composed of one or more of these 4 elements. This then extended to cosmology, describing the cosmos as coming from these 4 elements. In addition to Ancient Greece, many other cultures believed in a similar principle: Persia, Babylon, Japan, India and China. It was during the 12th century, during the Crusades, that the Occident discovered this belief. Modern physics demonstrated that this theory was inaccurate, by discovering the presence of many complex atoms. Nevertheless, the 4 elements are still a philosophical subject, and some tribes still believe in their power. So, have we really discovered everything?  Today, I’ll focus on the inspiration that these 4 elements give me. You know that I love photography, I widely share my photos on this blog & on my social media: And I’ve already been a contest finalist as I’ve mentioned in: Like any self-respecting artist, my photos are always associated with specific circumstances and obviously have a story of their own, it’s probably my writer side that stands out. I take you with me to discover the magic of our planet Earth, seen through my eyes.  Earth Planet Earth, the closest thing to us, not only our home, it’s also our centre or our inner self. In fact, in the representation of the universe in cosmology, the Earth is at the centre. It represents stability, solidity, abundance, it’s also the element of speaking. Cold and dry element according to the principles of Aristotle, it’s associated with autumn. This photo, like all the photos in this article, was taken in Crete in 2018. This one more specifically in June 2018, after the Freezing of my eggs in Madrid, and I was in great need of refocusing on myself, after several months of stress and 3 attempts, finally crowned with success. The softness of the light at the end of the day is very soothing and comforting, a way of reconnecting with the Earth and with myself.  Air Air or wind depending on the culture, it can move things like clouds or seeds. It’s the flow of energy, it allows to breathe, it symbolises the breath of life. It reflects the mood, our soul and it’s associated with knowledge. The element is humid and hot like steam, and corresponds to spring. This photo is very symbolic for me, I took it in November, while I was writing my book My Solo Wedding in Santorini. I like observing clouds, this pic made me want to create a series on them. There’s an expression I often use: “sky is the limit”. I love it. Believe in your dreams and never stop chasing them, even in dark times, this is what this photo means to me.  Fire Fire is associated with spirit, heart, physical strength, courage and passion, but it’s also a symbol of purification and resurrection. Besides, phoenix is represented as a fire bird. This element is hot and dry, and therefore represents summer. It’s both light and heat, I think my photo captures this image quite well. I love sunsets as you discovered it in my article on this, with pics taken from all over the world. There's something magical and fascinating, hypnotic about a sunset. Crete is a beautiful place for that, and I was able to have fun with my camera, this light is an essential element of my recovery.  Water Essential to our planet and our body, because they're both made of 70% water. This element exists in different forms and circulates in cycle. It’s also soothing and beneficial, it’s linked to our health, and more particularly to our immune system. Wet and cold, you guessed it, winter is its season. I saved it for the end, because I love water, I’m a water sign, nothing surprising therefore. My travel destinations often have the sea as a landscape: It’s something that relaxes me a lot and I live by the water whenever I can, or I go to a spa or even both! Re-read Spas Around the World. Definitely what I would miss the most if I had to live on Mars, planet without water (read Article Mars)… While I was writing my book, I was going for a walk by the sea almost every day, right in front of my flat. It gave me strength, energy, peace and of course inspiration! In this photo, I wanted to show that we can be soft and peaceful (by the colours), while being strong and powerful (the waves). This is the mindset I’ve discovered during my introspection, and this is what I’ve chosen to keep ...  No article next week, I have a few days off. Next Article: Saturday July 4! Have a good week! Love & Joy, L. Following my excesses as Quarantine Queen, back to good habits… After celebrating mums with my article Cretan Pottery, last week, today I’m going to give you my tips for staying young, fit and sharp at any age, especially as my birthday is approaching!  Mind It’s important to keep a brain activity throughout your life, it helps to maintain and create more neuronal connections, essential for memory, learning and motor skills for example. Jim Kwik mainly inspired me for this:
You'll find your brain sharper after that, your memory will improve, you’ll find solutions more easily, you’ll be less clumsy and your concentration will be better.  Spirit
Also read my article Thank you.
For example: "I am fit and healthy" becomes "Why am I fit and healthy? ". Mind likes solving problems, and affirmation as a question would help to be more proactive. I use both forms, according to the message, one model speaks to me more than the other. It's up to you to try both. I put my last video at the end of this article, it's about my Personal Notes.
 Body
With the confinement I kept dancing, ballet & ballroom, which I can practice alone at home, really great.
 Nutrition
Here's a non-exhaustive list with my preferences:
But generally speaking, everything natural and non-industrial is good for your health. It’s up to everyone to find their own dietary balance, especially if you have allergies or intolerances. I’m against restrictive diets, I've tried lots of them until I was 25, it works only temporarily and above all it dramatically stresses our body and mind. However, eating and choosing healthy food becomes a habit when you do it regularly ... There are all kinds of apps to help you check that your daily intake of vitamins and minerals is satisfied, and especially to show you where the hidden sugars and salt are.
Obviously keeping a social and family life is important, so adapt this principle to your needs. When I dine late on weekends, I stick to have at least 12 hours between the end of dinner and breakfast. Each person is different, and this rule can of course vary. This method has been proven to burn fat more easily, especially it gives your stomach time to self-clean and repair, what it can't do when it’s full or in the digestive phase.
 I’ve created my healthy routine over the years, and I continue to improve it with exceptional coaches and mentors: Vishen Lakhiani, Jim Kwik, Ronan Oliveira, Paul McKenna, Marisa Peer, Mat Boggs, Jon & Missy Butcher, Michael Beckwith... It’s important to do this every day, and to combine all this, I get up an hour earlier in the morning to apply the Robin Sharma power hour: 20-20-20, 20 minutes of exercise , 20 minutes of meditation and 20 minutes of learning. Time for myself whatever happens during the day ...  Be aware that our life expectancy is getting longer, so taking care of your body and mind is essential to get the most out of life. And I repeat it to you constantly but being happy improves our health and our longevity, so take advantage of happiness! My previous articles: If you have any question or want more advice, contact me here or leave a comment below. Love & Health, L.  And here we are, another year has passed, another place to celebrate it, yet different circumstances and more goals achieved ... But still this pride that doesn’t leave me but grows more and more every day. Just out of bed, I’ve expressed my gratitude and recognised that hardships in life happen to make us stronger and wiser. "The future can awaken in a more beautiful way than the past." George Sand 2017 Everything started in Santorini, this magical island in the Aegean Sea, which brought me back to life on May 27, 2017. I was to marry the man I loved, but I found myself on my own before the altar. I had no idea of my future, only the present mattered to me then, and my Solo Wedding was my lifebuoy. 2018 The Spanish capital, Madrid, I’ve never thought I would be there on May 27, 2018. I was preparing for a third attempt to freeze my eggs; I was on hormonal treatment and I was doing the daily injections myself. I was alone and extremely emotional because of the hormones, not to mention the stress of a possible new failure. Despite this, I’ve celebrated my 1st wedding anniversary with fun, starting with churros for breakfast, or rather porras (Madrid specialty, like churros but bigger)!! I stayed for several months, which allowed me to spend time in museums, especially in the Prado, my favourite museum. I was also very active on the blog and shared many of my discoveries with you. Read again: 2019 I had just left Crete, my book was finished! So happy with what I had just accomplished. All these months of loneliness and introspection, without TV and sometimes without internet for several days, had just given birth to one of my most beautiful projects, and certainly one of the most necessary. Reread: Why a Book? A fabulous retreat on one of the most beautiful Greek islands, and I’ve largely praised its beauty: 2020 A very weird year for everyone, under the threat of Covid-19 and confinement. Previously: Since I couldn't travel as planned, I had plenty of time to make videos and develop my social media: My anniversary day was great, I had a lot of fun and relaxed at home, with pina coladas and sun, especially I ate churros!  Re-read my previous articles: The providers of this unique day:
 "Having a purpose is fundamental after a breakup, especially do not give yourself time to feel sorry for yourself, it does not prevent pain or tears, but it helps not to collapse. Some people take refuge in work, I preferred to focus on myself only. My personal life had just crumbled, I had decided to devote fully to myself for the rest of the year. I was going to put my energy to the benefit of my quest for happiness, all those things that I wanted to accomplish and that I kept postponing. Taking time for me, thinking about what I really expected from life, what would make me happy again, the things I was dreaming of, but also what I would like to do in the near future and more distant, either personally or professionally. Above all, listening to my heart and asking what it wanted, taking the time for my feelings, letting my emotions express themselves." L.  Find all the articles here Link or click on the titles below:  I don’t know what the future holds and what I’ll tell you in a year, but I’m confident, I know I’ll have many wonderful things to speak about. Have a great week! Love & Future, L. After such a long confinement, it’s not always easy to go back to our former routine and good habits, such as following a timetable, managing the pressure at work ... So being patient and understanding with yourself is essential, and above all being kind. The words we use affect our mind enormously, so avoid saying I'm useless, I'm an idiot or I'm ugly. Something that we apply naturally with children, so why not with us? Besides, as our brain believes everything we say, we can go wild:
Confidence comes from within and believe it or not, but it will subconsciously inspire you to make an effort. Remember I gave you a whole list of positive thoughts in my article Be Positive. Not to mention all the nice words I used in my wedding vows during My Solo Wedding in Santorini!  In my last video (below), I explain the benefits to surround yourself with objects with positive messages:
But the trick I've always used, post-its! I stick them on the walls, the fridge, the mirrors… Like that, I’m sure to see them, no need to think about them or spend a special affirmation time. And each time I want to improve an aspect of my personality or my lifestyle, I create a new one, the latest one: I love working out at home! If you read my article from last week Quarantine Queen, you understand why ... I also like to surround myself with colourful objects or that represent characters or animals that I love, nothing better to make me smile and de-stress. Reread: Unicorns My Favourite Animals  "Believe in your dreams and they may come true. Believe in yourself and they will surely come true. " You know how much I love meditation and if you haven't tried it yet, I highly recommend it. I’ll dedicate a special article about it soon. But for today, at the end of the article, an easy meditation of 20 minutes that everyone can do, beginners too. It's guided by Jeffrey Allen, thanks to Mindvalley. My other favourite coaches of the moment: Paul McKenna, Michael Beckwith, Jim Kwik, and Marisa Peer (I’ve already mentioned her in my article Quarantine). Read my previous articles:  Have a great week everyone! Love & Kindness, L. Last week, I gave a recap of all posts and videos during the confinement, today I'm going to give a very personal point of view of this. I’ve wonderfully managed this quarantine, I even proclaimed myself Queen of Quarantine, beautiful as always even in pyjamas! Ok, well, I'm going to be honest, it was time for the confinement to end because I was going to become an alcoholic, obese and crazy woman! I didn't really follow the advice I’ve given in my article Quarantine (to re-read). Aperitif every night, it was fun and it reminded me of the holidays, but the tomato juice and the cucumber were not really invited: And yes, obviously we’re a lot to have eaten too much during these 8 weeks. The good side is we’ve learned to cook with what we had in the cupboards, and especially we’ve discovered lots of new recipes. Goodbye home delivery, welcome good homemade meals. I was very lucky, my sister loves cooking, I’ve only had to enjoy, my curves know it! Don’t forget Sunday brunch, on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday etc hahaha!! My favourites: brioche bread with scrambled eggs and pan-fried foie gras, baked egg with cream / bacon and hazelnuts, grilled halloumi, whole hazelnut cookies. So, nothing surprising I’ve gained 8lbs, being sedentary - understanding watching TV all day - especially when Gene Kelly and Franck Sinatra are in the same movie (Anchors aweigh). Well yes, frankly the first weeks who wanted to sweat in their living room?? Personally, just watching dance and fitness classes on my screen, I was already tired. Of course, when I started to feel squeezed into my pyjamas, I’ve made some effort, because there was no question of removing brunch or wine time! Thanks social media and all the amazing people who helped us stay in shape or just not gain more weight. The Wii Board helped too, out from a box in the garage, and apparently I'm a star… I’ve sometimes occupied my time in an interesting way, doing a unicorn make-up for example, manicure included. Remember I love Unicorns (read the article again). A few more weeks, and there was a good chance I stay like this permanently. For once I can acknowledge the French Government for something ... Then, we celebrated it with a Tropical Party! (Power to the Minions?!?)  I didn’t go out at all this week, it takes 21 days to change our habits, remember I've explained it in my Article Be Positive. So, I have 3 weeks to know what I'm going to do. I started to make a list, in this order:
This is all I can do within a 62mi radius, unfortunately my family and friends are too far, patience ... In the meantime, I'm working and napping. But now I have an extremely difficult decision to make, which pair of shoes am I going to wear for my very first day out? Ahhhh my precious shoes, I missed you, read again: At the end of the article, the trailer of Smallfoot; no matter who we are, we can all live in harmony if everyone makes an effort ... Love & Fun, L. Many countries restart their activity, France will be deconfined next week, but with strict measures, such as for example not going away more than 62mi. In my case, this means that I still can’t go to Paris, so I’m going to stay at my sister’s longer… I thought a little summary of my articles during the quarantine would be useful, just to make sure you haven’t missed anything.  The very first article in the series: Quarantine I’ve also made you travel a lot over the past few weeks:
And I’ve shown you unique constructions: I’ve also shared my life with these Videos (click on titles to watch): The latest: Find your Superpower! Reminder: a new video online every week on Instagram and YouTube. Subscribe: All the videos here: link My routine will remain the same, I’ll go out occasionally to take no risks, and many public places remain closed anyway. For those who are going back to work, I think very much of you, I know this return to a reality whose future is still uncertain, is difficult, you’ll cope in the same way as you have done these past 8 weeks. Stay strong & positive! Don’t hesitate to re-read my positive articles:  And to relax and enjoy the weekend, at the end of the article, the trailer of a delicious comedy to watch with the family: The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir A magnificent film that’ll make you laugh and look on the bright side of life! Love & Life, L. 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.  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 didn't care about conventions and followed 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 Year 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 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 do silly things!). 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. |
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