I Needed a Burger, in France


Thirty six years ago this month I went on a date with the lady who would become my love, the mother of our wonderful daughter, my best friend, as well as my travel and food buddy. We have made it through the ups and downs of any relationship yet we still love to eat and…

An Expat’s Struggles With Ordering Food


The stereotype for many in the USA is that the French are not friendly, well after multiple trips to France, and living in France for a year I can say that is just not true. In general the French are so kind and helpful. When we butcher their beloved language they may correct a bit…

Un Café – The Price of Admission


In France un Café is more than a beverage, it is the cornerstone of the café culture. In the USA coffee is something you do while you do something else, in France it is much more deliberate, for a traveler it is a perfect entry into the local culture. I have never seen a drive-through…

A Varied Journey


Sketching captures my thoughts and experiences then saves them for later reflection while enhancing the moment itself. Though I do have journals, it is clear that the traditional practice of faithfully recording the day’s events eludes me. Random thoughts get recorded, a memorable meal or person, yet spontaneous rather than intentional. Perusing my sketches over…

Time to get out a bit – a workshop with wine!


Some of my best travelsketching memories are from cafes and pubs. After four months of staying in I am ready to get out for a bit of la culture du café; it seems like the perfect excuse for a workshop along with a bit of celebrating. So here is the plan, rough as it is…