CRISBERWORLD

Happy W-day with MAC!

2012-03-08T23:17:00.000+01:00

Salut!

Today is the "women's day", "Weltfrauentag", "Le jour de la femme".
Okay. Perfect!
So to all females : Happy W-day!
And the best way to celebrate this day is, to make yourself a little beautiful gift. :-)
Great idea.
SHOPPING!
Love it!
Cause I wouldn't be female, if I wouldn't had already in my mind what this could be, my W-day present:
Some more make up of my favorite cosmetic brand MAC.
YES! :-))

At lunch time I went quickly to a MAC store. To have look, what is new.
And there I saw them: a beautiful dark red varnish and lipgloss!

varnish, longwear lipgloss and eyeshadow by MAC

Happy me! :-)
The eyeshadow is an old one of my MAC cosmetics collection. Got it since a couple of years already.
But it is still very beautiful.
Don't worry, I am using it.
Not everyday, cause I think, it is more made for the evening and it is a big box, too.
It is called "Maroon".

varnish & lipgloss by MAC

So, when I saw today this nail lacquer "cream blue blood" and the pro longwear lipcolour "perennial rose" in the MAC store, I said to myself, both would perfectly match with the "Maroon" eyeshadow at home.
Beautiful!

I couldn't hold on, I had to buy them.
And anyway, it is my W-day today, isn't it?! ;-)

The varnish is drying very quick. That makes it so easy. When you don't have to wait too long to "use" your fingers again. Cause this is kind of a "no-go" for me.
If it takes more then 3minutes, I won't use the varnish again. Sorry. Out of the game.
But luckily with this "cream blue blood" it isn't the case.
And I am so in love with this color!

cream blue blood nail polish by MAC

The lipgloss is a pro longwear lipcolor color perennial rose.
I got already 3 of them! They are fantastic!
Cause the color will be the whole day on your lips and not somewhere else!
So you don't have to worry, when your are drinking or eating (or kissing!) something, to refresh it. The lipgloss can stay at home. You gonna look gorgeous all day long!

pro longwear lipcolor by MAC

Okay, that was my W-day-present!

Hope, you had made yourself one too.
If not, you still have time to. It is never too late.

Cause by the way, isn't every day a women's day?!

;-))

P.S. the other MAC post is "underconstruction". The photos disapeard, so I have to re-post it an other day. Thank you for your understanding!

Vanilla-pear-crumble-cake

2012-03-04T22:47:00.000+01:00

Hello!

Since a long time -a month!- I haven't baked a cake. And for me this is really a long time, cause normally I am baking 1-2 times per week a cake. Told you, that I love sweets! :-9
So it was more than urgent!

pears

As I still had some pears in the house,
I decided to bake a cake with it.

Exactly, an Vanilla-pear-crumble-cake!
But you could make it with some apples or cherries, too.

"Pas mal", as the Frenchman would say.

"Lecker" is what I say!

So Yummy! I can tell you.

A new recipe. :-) Proud! :-)
And not tricky at all.

First prepare a simple shortcrust.

mixture

shortcrust

The recipe

1 eg
100g butter
75g sugar
200g flour

and knead it to a "ball".

Then wrap it into a plastic film and leave for 1 hour in the refrigerator.

That's all. Easy going.

Now, start to cut the pears into small pieces.

pears

                          I prefer pieces, cause it is so much easier to eat and it tastes                           better too. Cause if you fill the cake with fruits pieces you
                          will use more than when you would cut them into slices.
                          But this is as always up to you.
                        You should only know, I will never say how many gram
                          of fruits you exactly need. It always depends on your
                          baking tin and again your taste. But the mixture should be
totally covered.

If you are using fresh pears, cook the pieces in a bit of water (150ml). If you take those of a can, keep the pears juice!

Now mix:

Vanilla-Pudding & cream

100ml pear juice
100ml cream
1/2 package of a vanilla pudding powder

vanilla-pear-cream

All together, the cream, the juice and the powder. Add NO sugar, the juice is already sweet enough.

After that, take the shortcrust and roll it out very thin. I explained it how to do it here
Then give it into the baking tin,
the pears on top
and at least the creme.

vanilla-cream meets pears

Done.

Now the best part of it, the crumble.
One more time, not difficult at all.

You need:

100g butter
100g sugar
120g flour

and (if you like) 50g of crumble walnuts.

Crumble the ingredients with a fork up to the moment you got 'crumbles'.

walnut-crumble

Give the crumbles over the pears.

Fini. :-)

180 Celsius for 50 minutes (depends on your oven).

Then...

Vanilla-pear-crumble-cake

Guten Appetit!

:-)

outside at the 'Galliera' and the 'musée d'art moderne'

2012-02-28T22:47:00.000+01:00

Hallöchen!

Instead of having a lunch somewhere inside of a restaurant I made yesterday a little walk, to enjoy the fresh air. Cause it was such a sunny day. And as the 'musée Galliera' and the 'musée d'art moderne' were just around the corner, I decided to go over there.
You have to know, both are fantastic buildings. Architecturally and the exhibitions.
Unfortunately the 'museum Galliera' is closed for the public up till 2013.
But it doesn't matter. Anyway I wanted to enjoy my lunch break outside.
And to sit in front of it, having a small picnic is already a pleasure. :-)
To understand what I am talking about, I took some photos with my iphone.

Voilà, the musée Galliera

backyard of the museum Galliera

Isn't it a beautiful place to enjoy the sun and having a little picnic?!
And I love the idea how they've placed the old fashion photos.
Just great.
It is because the 'Galliera' is the museum of mode/fashion.

Museum Galliera

And now coming to the other side of the museum, close to the entrance.

Side part of the museum Galliera

detail of Galliera

entrance of the Galliera

What a pity, that it is still closed.
Otherwise I would have visit it. It is really beautiful.
All the wonderful dresses...! Yes, I know, sooo girlie again! :-)

Just on the opposite of the backyard of the 'Galliera' is the 'museum of modern art' nick name: 'mam'.
And the building itself is already a huge contrast to the 'Galliera'.
Have a look please

musée d'art moderne

the mam

court of the musée d'art

gallery of columns

Pure and "simple". Fantastic!
And the 'mam' is open for the public, no "constructions". ;-)
But I couldn't go in. My lunch break was closely finished, so I had to go back to work.
Yeah, hard working woman. Brav!
But "I'll be back" :-)

Before I am going to say bye-bye for today one last photo.
I took it at the court of the museum d'art moderne

Tour L'Eiffel

Always a beautiful model the Eiffel Tower!

:-)

pure skin: Sensai by Kanebo

2012-02-24T16:41:00.001+01:00

Hello!

Okay, today something for the "raving beauty": A pure skin.

We all know it, "eat enough fruits and vegetables, drink water and green tea, make some sport, not too much sun or make up, not a lot of sugar or fat, no cigarettes, sleep enough.... and your skin will look fresh, healthy young and nice".
Yes, of course.
Now this by heart!
"And if your skin looks beautiful it means that you feel good, too."
Got that also. Thank you! :-)

But who got all the courage to do that?!
Yes, I am trying to eat healthy, to drink water, take enough sleep, no cigarettes...
But I LOVE to drink coffee, to eat sweets and cakes or some junk food as for example fries!
I LOVE to lay in the sun or when I am using some make up (specially this fantastic red lipstick!)!
And honestly,who really would like to look "forever 16"???
It has been a great time, yes, but thank you, once is enough!
Love my life, my expierences and the way how I look today.
Cause look at that

Yes, this is-better was me. No comment, please!
And now, hopefully, you understand why I rather prefer to look not anymore like that.
Cause today, with all the knowledge and experiences of the past, I know, that not only these advices further up let you look good.
It is also important for a nice skin, to try to live happy (this is for free and up to you) and to have a good cleansing cream at home (and this is what I am going to show you now!)

After a lot of testing, normal cleanser, cheap one, expensive one, soaps, cream a.s.o.
I discovered SENSAI, a gentle cleansing serie by KANEBO for a pure skin.

It is with Gingseng and very easy to use.

The Sensai is coming in 2 steps.

Sensai Step1: a deep and speedy make up and seburn removal

Sensai Step2: is a daily micro exfoliation

SENSAI SERIE/KANEBO

SENSAI STEP1

I have to admit, it is a bit expensive.

But first of all, it is very good; Your skin will get immediately a clean, soft and fresh touch.

Second you don't have to take a lot. Already a fingertip seize is enough.

And the Sensai Step1 is only for using in the evening. So it will last long.

And at least, if your love is saying to you, you are looking so beautiful, so fresh and your skin is so smooth and smelling wonderful, you wanna be 16 again without that? ;-)

I love my Kanebo.

Have a happy weekend!

:-)

Special edition: old motorbikes

2012-02-22T14:35:00.001+01:00

Hello!

Today I have a small special edition for you:

old motorbikes

The last couple of weeks, when I was walking down the streets to go to work, home or to do some shopping, I saw some really nice "old" motorbikes. Some you don't see quiet often.
So, as I always have my iphone close to me, I took some photos of them.
I think they are beautiful - even if they are a bit dirty (...yeah I know, so girlie! ;-) ).
And I like them very much.
That's why I decided to mention them today!
To share it with you!

The first one is an old Suzuki.
Don't ask me for details, which one, year....
I have no clue. And there was no sign to read! ;-)

Suzuki motorbike

A bit out of shape, but I think it is still running.

And look at the controls... nice!

Pure and simple.

Suzuki motorbike

The second one is really beautiful and I would like to have one like that!
A Daelim drystar.

Making a nice ride close to the beach of the 'Normandie'... Like this idea! :-)

And the last but not least and one of my favorite is, (I call it "the little Porsche" ;-)) ),
a very old Honda.
I don't know if it is allowed to say, it is a motorbike. Maybe I should better call it a moped or as we say it in German a "Mofa".
But what ever, I love it!

"the little Porsche"- Honda Moped

Standing next to all these big motorbikes....
Saying: Here I am! Choose me!
So cute! :-)

Honda

That's it.
If I see some more, I'm going to tell you, I promise.
But for the moment I say bye-bye and enjoy your day!

:-)

P.S.: Again, the photos are edited by instagram

Trésor at Marais

2012-02-20T16:31:00.000+01:00

Bonjour!

It is always nice to make a little shopping tour on a Sunday afternoon in the 4th arr. of Paris, at the 'Marais'.
Cause normally on a Sunday the shops are closed in Paris. But not, over there at the 'Marais'.
All small boutiques are open. No one is in a rush, the cafés invite you to sit down and the streets are more blocked by pedestrians than by cars.
I like that. :-)

at the Marais-Paris

But me, I didn't made some shopping - this time. Brav! ;-)

I just had a little café gourmand (espresso with some little desserts)

café gourmand

as usual in one of my favorite café/restaurants in this corner.
At the restaurant 'Trésor' in the 'rue trésor'. Easy to find, easy to remember.

Rue Trésor

restaurant Trésor

This restaurant is very cosy.
Everything in red, a bit "kitschy" but in a nice way.
I like that.
When the furniture are a bit old and done... Looks nice and makes it comfortable. No "chi-chi". :-)
The 'Trésor' is a restaurant, café and a bar, all in one.
The food is 'pas mal' nothing special and the service is... mmh....
I would say it depends WHO is serving you.
Sometimes it is okay and sometimes it is realy nice.
But it is very popular. I can tell you.
Doesn't matter at what time you are coming over it is always crowded.

inside the Trésor

love this corner at the Trésor

Even though, I like to be there and so far I had always luck to find a little place to sit down.
And I bet it would be the same for you!
So if you are searching for a nice restaurant at the 'Marais', I only can recommend the 'Trésor'.

Okay, that's it for today.
Talk to you soon!

Bye-bye

:-)

at Place des Ternes

2012-02-16T15:40:00.001+01:00

Coucou!

The 'Place des Ternes' is a small square not far away from 'L'Arc de Triomphe' (only5 minutes by walking) in the 17th arr..

There you have nice restaurants, shops (I already showed you the other day one of my favorite street, the Rue Poncelet) and beautiful old buildings.

And I wanna show you a bit more cause they deserve it to be mentioned, too:

When you are coming from the 'Place des Ternes' and going into the direction of 'L'arc de Triomphe' on the left side of the street you will find this hotel with a gorgeous façade, called 'Hotel Ceramic Elysees'.

Hotel Ceramic Elysees

façade of Hotel Ceramic

Hotel Ceramic

I love this hotel. I've never been inside so far, but already the outside decoration is a pleasure.
It is something unique/special at Paris and a must see, I think.
Then, if you are a little bit hungry you should definitely turn right, between 'Avenue de Wagram' and 'Avenue Mac-Mahon'. There is a nice restaurant where you can eat fresh and delicious 'pasta'/noodles.

restaurant La Fabrica

As you can see, it has been in the past a bakery.
I took some photos early in the morning. It is much easier for me at that time. I don't have to be aware of some guest. But believe me, at lunch time it looks different! :-)

inside the La Fabrica

La Fabrica

Nice isn't it. I like this kind of restaurant.
With this wall made of 'brick'. Still the touch of an old factory.
As they have no own internet presentation here the address of 'La Fabrica':
19 Rue de l'Étoile, 75017 Paris.

After that you should go to 'FNAC'.
Not because you should buy some books or Cd's ( but you can ! ;-) it is THE main store for that at Paris or you buy your tickets for shows and concerts there, too).
No, you should go there to have a look because of this great building!

store of FNAC

FNAC

Another must to visit at Paris! Don't you think so too?!
And I always can spend hours over there. Yes, for sure I walk inside. To check the latest books and CD's releases out! :-)
But if it is nice weather and not to cold you should better walk on and discover all these little decoration and extras at this district.
Like lights/lamps or 'galleries' for example

Gallery Rue Bayen

traditional lamp

lonesome light

... and sooo much more!
But that is as usual on you to check out! ;-)

Okay, that was my little tour around the 'Places des Ternes'.

Wishing you a great day and talk to you soon!

:-)

True beauty: façade of "Paris"

2012-02-13T17:49:00.001+01:00

Hello!

The typical façade of a building of Paris looks like this:

face of building

"
5 floors high, architecture of the 19th century and very often decorated with a little french bacony.
Beautiful, romantic, Paris.
I like that.

But when you are walking down the streets and not always just hanging on the phone, doing some shopping or just bubbeling with a friend like everybody else... ;-), no, when you're taking a walk and you look "up" to your side, you will discover the true beauty of this city.
Wonderful architecture with a love to the detail and one more reason why most Frenchmen would not like to live in an other city:

inner square

Isn't this beautiful?!
This little inner square you will find close to the park Monceau, I talked about it the other day. It is in the 8th arr. like all houses I show you today.
And just because I made a stop to come closer to see all the details I discovered this clock! Otherwise I would have missed it.
LOVE IT!
It looks like a little palace.

Entrance to the inner square

Then a bit further in the "Rue Rembrandt". (One of my favorite streets in the 8th. arr..)

Rue Rembrandt

It is not a big street, no shops, no restaurant, but one little "pearl" next to the other!

a "pearl" at the 'rue Rembrandt'

"France meets China in Dutch"

This isn't a photo montage or so. It looks really like this.

And it is my favorite shot of today. A it surreal.

The red house isn't a museum, if you think so. It was once used by a chinese company selling furniture. But they've changed their address. Doesn't matter. It still looks great and it is something that you don't expect over there. More in the 13th arr.,which is the chinese district of Paris.

Sometimes you should place yourself directly "underneath" a house and look "up".
Then you gonna see that

Frescos

Beautiful frescos of a house.
It is so impressive what they had created in the past.
And it is really up to us to treat this architectural treasure with respect and to take care of it!
Would be a pitty if we would loose these story teller of our past.

And with photo of a little brigde high "up" I say good-bye for today.

Enjoy your day and don't forget to look "up" sometimes.

Who knows what kind of treasure is waiting for you over there!

:-)

Parc Monceau

2012-02-09T15:11:00.000+01:00

Salut!

Even if the nature looks a bit grey and it is very cold outside, I wanna bring you today to a very beautiful park in the 8th. arr of Paris, to the 'Parc Monceau'. Cause I like to take a walk in a park specially in winter time. It's not crowded, the air is fresh and it is more quiet, too. Nice.
But as everything is more less black and white, I took some black and white shots for you.
Thought it would look better.

When you take the main entrance of the 'Parc Monceau' a rotunda, a big old pavilion is welcoming you.

Rotunda in the Parc Monceau

Entrance gate of Parc Monceau

All entrances of the park got the same beautiful big black golden gates.
Looks just great.

In the park you will find some miniature editions of architectural buildings: As a little Egyptian pyramid, some Chinese architecture or a Dutch windmill for example.
I just took a few photos of my favorites "minis". Cause I wanna give you the possibility to discover the rest by yourself! Isn't that nice! :-9

The colonnade

Ruin de la porte Saint-Jean

Parc Monceau

Statue in the Parc Monceau

For those who are interested in, the park has a couple of statues of famous French personalities, too ( like Guy de Maupassant, Frédéric Chopin, Charles Gounod, or Edouard Pailleron f.e.).

But honestly, I am not such a fan of that.
So I left them a bit behind, sorry.

Cause me, I am impressed by these enormous old trees of the 'Parc Monceau' again and again.

Parc Monceau

Imagine this in summer. When everything is colorful! Beautiful!
I have to show it to you in spring again. You will love it!


Parc Monceau

And the surroundings of the 'Parc Monceau' are not the worst one, I can tell you.
As we are in the 8th arr. it is one of the "upper class" district of Paris.
Very expensive and a bit "chi-chi".
But so what.
It is nice to spent some time in this beautiful area and to enjoy what you see.

surroundings of Parc Monceau

surroundings of Parc MonceaT

The next time I have to show some more of these fantastic, gorgeous, beautiful, a bit "chi-chi" buildings of this district, okay.
Even if it would be too expensive for us to rent an apartment over there.
It is already a pleasure to take a look outside.
Cause we don't have to live over there we can dream!

;-)

Delicious shops at the 'Rue Poncelet'

2012-02-06T22:33:00.001+01:00

Coucou!

As I told you last time, I wanna show you a bit of the 17th arr. in Paris.
It is a beautiful area with many interesting streets.
Like the 'Rue Poncelet' for example.

Rue Poncelet

It is just around the corner of 'Place des Ternes', not far away from 'L'Arc de Triomphe'.
A nice street where you'll find wonderful small shops and restaurants. Great!
This is what I like. Cause then you take your time, walk slowly to discover all the delicious things you can get there.
For example your have one of the best butcher shop of this district over there.
The 'Boucheries Roger Billebaut'.

butcher shop Roger Billebaut

butcherman

Everything is fresh, the quality is good and the service is nice and funny (french humor!) . Great!

A bit further is a tiny but a real traditional french 'Maraicher'. A 'Maraicher' sells fresh seasonal goods of the surroundings (here of Paris), it is a horticulturist.

le maraicher

Just next to the 'Maraicher' is one of my favorite store of the 'Rue Poncelet'.
It isn't exactly a store. More a small Café where you can get some delicious German cream cakes!

Kaffehaus, Rue Ponclet

Sorry, but I didn't went in there this time. I had already baked at home an crumble pears cake. So, there wasn't any official need for me. Stupid. I know. How could a 'Schwarzwälderkirschtorte' not be a need???? ;-)
But this was on my shopping list: Fromage, cheese.

Fromagerie Alléosse

Flower Deco at Alléosse

The 'Fromagerie Alléosse'.
Doesn't this shop looks lovely?!
You have the feeling you are in fairy tale! Beautiful!

And by the way the cheese is very good, too!

Fromagerie Alléosse

This shop is already a visit of the 'Rue Poncelet' worth it! Believe me!

Vis-à-vis of the fromagerie is a nice little "epicerie"- a deli- the 'Epicurya', where I always buy some 'Brezel'. Yummy! Home! :-)

Epicurya

Apropos home, the coffee shop where I buy my fresh coffee (if my reserves from Hamburg are already empty again! ;-9) is in this street, too!
Yepa!
Cause for me to have some good coffee at home is a must.
I don't like to start my day with an disgusting taste.
This would ruin the whole day. No, no, no way.
For sure, it is a bit more expensive. But I rather prefer to drink only one cup of a delicious coffee than 3 or more cups of something which is not tasty at all. And if I have none at home then I drink pure water ( it is even better, let you shine beautiful....mmh... I should drink some more water!!! ;-)).
Sorry, but I am not a fan of this one you get in a supermarket.
So for you to know, the name of the shop is 'Brûleries des Ternes'.

Brûleries des Ternes

I like the Coffee of Costa Rica very much. A bit strong but with a smooth taste. Mmmh.. :-)

The 'Brûleries des Ternes' over there, isn't the only one at Paris. There are some more shops of it.
But I always like to come to the 'Rue Poncelet'. It has such a nice charm. And I get so many delicious things in a few minutes! LOVE IT!

After all the shopping, if you are a bit hungry you should make a stop at the 'L'Atlier du Marché'.
A nice restaurant with a very tasty menu card.

restaurant L'Atelier du Marché

You'll find it in the 'Rue Saussier-Leroy', a side street of 'Rue Poncelet'.
If you are interesting in for more details just click l'atelier du marche

So far so good. This was my shopping-sightseeing-tour for today!
I hope, you got some inspiration for your next grocery shopping and let's see what will be next!

Just for you to know, a little note:
This time I have shot all photos with my iphone and edited with instagram.
That's why they look different today.
Like it?

But now:

Bye bye

:-)

A little teaser

2012-02-03T15:43:00.000+01:00

Hello!

How was your "Chandeleur"-party? Did you try it, too?
It isn't so difficult, isn't it.

Amazing, but I have no clue, how fast this week past by.
I definitely had too much stuff on my schedule. That's for sure. Can tell you.
And this is the reason why I could only write one post this week. Unfortunately. :-(

But next week will be a bit better ( hope so, guess so, do so! :-) ).
And then, I will bring you to the 17th and 8th arr. of Paris.
A very beautiful area.
I am going to show you the area behind 'L'Arc de Triomphe de l'Etoile', then walking in the direction of the 'Place des Ternes' and making a little pause in very beautiful park called 'Parc Monceau'.
Wonderful.
Love it.
Getting already excited. ;-)

For you to get also a bit of an impression, I've took quickly some photos with my iphone, while I were sitting in the car. They are not the best photos, but take it as a little appetizer, okay?

Rue de Presbourg

Square behind Rue de la Pompe

Apartments at the Avenue Foch

driving on the Avenue Foch

There are so many beautiful buildings in the area, with nice shops.
It is really an district which deserve to be mentioned. But this, I will do next time! :-)
Wish you a great, sunny weekend like I will have!

L'Arc de Triomphe

See you!
:-)

'La Chandeleur'-Fêtes des Crêpes recipe

2012-02-02T14:19:00.001+01:00

Bonjour!

Today, I wanna celebrate with you a cute french tradition. The 'Fêtes des crêpes'.
For you to know, today is the day of the 'Candlemas'.
'Candlemas' is a religious feast. It commemorates the Presentation of the Child Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem and the purification of his mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary.
But the Frenchmen wouldn't be french if they wouldn't give to this day their own little french touch beside the religious back round.
( That's why I love the french culture, always something to celebrate in a 'sweet' way! ) :-)

So in France you aren't only celebrating the day of 'La Chandeleur'- 'La Fête de la Lumière'.
It is the day of 'La Fêtes des crêpes', too .
Why do they do that?
Not only because the Frenchman likes to eat crêpes ( pancakes) on 'Chandeleur'. ;-)
There is a little story behind.
Briefly:
In the Fifth century the church started to replace the torches by light blessed candles which should kept away the evil and to recall that Christ is the 'light of the world'.
The Christians then, took these candles at home to protect theirs, too.
As at this time of the year they've started to sow the grains on the field, they ground the surplus grain to flour and used it to make some 'crêpes', a symbol of prosperity for the coming year.
The round shape and golden color of the 'crêpes' became a symbol for the sun, which was referring to the return of the spring after a dark and cold winter season.

But they also did a bit of a fortune telling while they were making them.
The tradition says:
You have to hold a cent in your writing hand and a frying pan with a 'crêpe' in it in the other.
Then flip the already well baked 'crêpe' into the air.
If you manage to catch the 'crêpe' back into the pan, your family will be prosperous for the rest of the year.
It also says, that the first 'crêpe' has to be placed on your closet for the whole year. If it won't fall down you are a lucky one if not, better think about your life again! ;-)
Okay, me, I prefer the first tradition.
Cause I think, a real pancake, a full year on my cupboard?????! NO WAY!
Not my parfum!
;-)
So this is what we gonna do today!
Making some 'crêpes' and try to catch it with the pan to have a wonderful lucky year!
Let's go.

The recipe:

250g flour
4 eggs
400 ml milk
100 ml cream
1 pinch of salt (not a must)
1 1/2 soup spoon sugar
a bit of fresh vanila ( 1/2 half teaspoon)
50g butter for the pan

Okay, the lucky year will start now!:

First give the flour and the eggs into a bowl.
Then mix the milk with the cream and give it gradually into the bowl while mixing with your whip.

mixture crêpes

Important: Don't give the full milk/cream in one shot into the "mixture".
It will become too clumsy! Peu à peu!
If you have a liquid mixture,

liquid mixture crêpes

add the vanilla, the sugar and a pinch of salt. I use most of the time brown cane sugar. But this isn't an obligation. I just prefer it

Now, you have to cover it with a dish towel and leave it by itself for one hour.

The cooking part:
Heat up a frying pan and add a piece of butter.

butter in the pan

When it is melted, you give one coop of the mixture into the pan.

mixture of crêpes into the pan

Roast it for 1-2 minutes.

Now, starts the lucky/funny part of it.
First make sure, that the dough is movable in your pan, that it doesn't "stick" on to it. ;-)
Then grab a cent / coin and hold it in your writing hand. With the other hand you take the pan and try to flip the 'crêpes'. This has to be done quickly, a bit sporty I would say.

bring me luck!

Unfortunately, as I only have two hands, I couldn't made a photo of it, when I where flipping the 'crêpes'. So you have to believe me: LUCKY GIRL! :-)

fresh crêpes

And that's it. After 1-2 minutes on the other side, the 'crêpes' is ready to be served!
Now it is up to you. What is your taste: chocolate, ice cream, honey, just sugar, bananacream...
I love it with my favorite white chocolate bread spread by pain au quotidien.

crêpes with 'blondie'

Pure and simple! And so good! YUMMY!

Et voilà!

Ready for the 'Fêtes des crêpes'

Let's enjoy the party! The Fêtes des Crêpes!

Bon appètit!

:-)

'Sale' shopping at 'Hollister', 'Cyrillus' and 'Zara'

2012-01-27T15:57:00.000+01:00

Salut dears!

Told you, that I had a half day off on Monday to make some shopping.
Cause it is "Sale"-time in Paris!
Great. Love it!
But this time I didn't went to Paris downtown.

No. I decided to do it at 'Velizy', a suburb of Paris. There is a big shopping mall, called 'Velizy 2' with all the big brands. And, and this is the main reason why I went there,
the only store of 'Hollister' in France.

Entrance of Hollister

Hollister

The store 'Hollister' at 'Velizy 2'

It's a brand by 'Abercrombie & Fitch'.
Looks nice, doesn't it?!
Unfortunately I couldn't make some photos inside. It is too dark. But beautiful.
I like it very much. You should have a look there, too!

Coming back to my shopping now.
I made some photos of all my little treasures I've found, for you to know what it is and how it will look like when I wear it. :-)
Voilà, my collection:

Orange nail polish by Bourjois Paris

Blue blouse by Hollister

Grey sweater by Hollister

Blue boots by Cyrillus

Green dress by Zara

I have to say, the nail polish and the dress weren't on sale.
But so what. I like them anyway!
Specially the varnish. I am in love with this orange.
I think it looks just beautiful and brings immediately a summer feeling! Great!

orange nail polish by Bourjois Paris

And it's fitting nicely to all the rest I've bought. And I am a Lion, I need summer.
So I had to buy it! ;-)
The blue blouse got a very light material with some nice little flower applications. Perfect for the spring/summer time. Together with the boots I've bought.

sale: Boots Cyrillus

Sale: Blouse Hollister

It looks quit nice, don't you think so too?!.
Comfortable and easy.
I mixed this style with an old skirt of mine, I've bought once at a fresh market at Lille. I think it was for 12 Euros if I remember it correctly.
The blouse got a 30% discount and the boots 50%. That means this outfit is less than 100 Euros!
:-)

The applications of the blouse are really beautiful. Like them very much.

Blouse Hollister

The boots are made of velours and they are so comfortable, I can tell you.
I am an fan of boots. Doesn't matter if you are wearing some pants, shorts, a skirt or a dress. They always give your style the "little point on the i" as we are saying in Germany.

Boots Cyrillus

As you saw on the top, I've bought a gray sweat-shirt at 'Hollister', too. But this I am going to show you an other time. Didn't had the chance to take a photo of it so far. But I will, don't worry. Cause it is simply and nice! :-)

And then I saw this green dress at the store 'Zara'.
Which I thought would perfectly match to my new boots!

Normally is coming with a belt. But I like it without.
If you are wearing some tight pants underneath, yes, then I agree, it is definitely better with one.
But in this case I prefer it without.

Jacket Massimo Dutti

Scarf Burberry

Just a scarf of 'Burberry' (old), a blue suit jacket of 'Massimo Dutti', my orange nail polish...
And my look is ready to present it on the street!

ready to go out

Okay, so far only inside.
Cause you know, that I am doing all the photos by myself, without any help.
So try to take a full body shot all alone on the street.
Challenging!
But who knows, maybe one day I will do!
For the moment I hope you had a bit fun like I had and wish you a beautiful WE!

flowers and Bourjois Paris

See you!

:-)

the street Mouffetard and a little shoe shop

2012-01-25T17:45:00.000+01:00

Hello!

Today I wanna bring you to a nice street in the 5th arr. of Paris, to "Rue Mouffetard".
It is one of the oldest street in Paris with many wonderful little restaurants, cafés, shops
and a regular open market.
A lively area and very popular with young people.
(For you to know the University 'Sorbonne' is just round the corner.)

Rue Mouffetard

Cafés and shops at Mouffetard

restaurants at Mouffetard

I like it very much. And as this is a street only for pedestrians, it makes it so pleasant to saunter by the streets, specially in the evening! ;-)
Only suppliers may go there.

Psst,.... among myself, sometimes I have the feeling, each one is a supplier in Paris. Where they always go and park,... astonishingly! ;-)

a side street of Mouffetard

alleyway of Mouffletard

I've read, that the name 'Mouffetard' has been based on the old french word 'moufette' (skunk). Interesting, isn't it?!
Wanna know the reason why?
One of the side rivers of the 'Seine', the 'Bièvre', which ran along there, had stunk very strong in the past, like a skunk. So the people gave this area this nickname. Nice!
Now fortunately this flows underground and only the name has remained, but not the smell!
Only the smell of all the food covers the air. :-)

As I told you, in the 'rue Mouffletard' you will find some nice shops, too.
This here for example: The "Dressing Parisen Shoes"
Yeah, one more time shoes. But what do you expect?! I am just female! :-))

Dressing Parisen Shoes

It is a very small shop as you can see, but they have some nice shoes over there.
Like my favorite boots of ASH! I've already presented them the other time here
And not only shoes, if you are searching for a bag, a hat or a scarf,.... maybe at 'Dressing Parisen Shoes' you will find what you are looking for.

Dressing Parisen Shoes

Dressing Parisen Shoes.

I think it is a very cute shop. And the service is friendly, too.
Not so "grincheux" grumbly like in many big fashion houses!

Okay, that's it for today.
Next time I'm going to show you what I bought at the "sale", which is right now in Paris.
For sure some shoes but not only that. But what else... wait,... you will see!
Next time! ;-)

Take care!

:-)

half day off with instagram

2012-01-23T09:57:00.000+01:00

Good morning!

Today I have i half day off!
What a luxury!
So I am going to have a look if I will find something nice downtown Paris.
Cause it is "on solde" time!
Love it!
:-)))))
Gonna tell you more later.

Just one little thing:

I would like to invite you, to join/follow me on instagram.
It is a photo app for the iphone.
So if you are the owner of an iphone you just have to download it (if you haven't done it already).
And it is for free.
Wonderful!
At instagram and only there I present a gallery of all the photos I've took with my iphone.
Like these photos for example

instagram/crisber- shop-decoration

Instagram/ Crisber- Tower of CDGParis

It makes a lot of fun I can tell you!
There are so many beautiful "models" in the world.
You only have to walk around with eyes wide open. They are just next to you! :-)
And to see the other beautiful shots of members from all over the world is just great.
So it would be my pleasure if we would meet each other at instagram and share our shots!
You will find me quiet easy. Just search for "Crisber" and there I am! :-)

For those who got another cellphone, don't worry.
At web.stagram or statigr.am you get the possibilty to subscribe and to see my photo collection too.

That's it for the moment!

And know: SHOPPING!!!!!!

:-))

day trip to: Honfleur

2012-01-18T22:20:00.000+01:00

Hello!

I think, this week is my "fullfill my promises" week! ;-)

Remember, I promised you the other time, when I was talking about my day trip to Etretat, to show you an other very beautiful little village not far away from 'Etretat', 'Honfleur'.

Voilà here it comes, this is 'Honfleur'!

the old dock of Honfleur

'Honfleur' is one of the most favored town at the north west coast of France in the region of the 'Basse-Normandie'.
Which I can definitely understand.

First of all, because of its beautiful port basin.

port basin of Honfleur

Port of Honfleur

You feel like in a beautiful painting.
Just picturesque.
It invites you to come close, to take a seat and to enjoy the charm of it.

As you can see, the old dock of 'Honfleur' is surrounded by historical narrow buildings.
Impressive. A second reason to visit this village.
One beautiful house near to the other. Telling their own little story.

narrow houses at the dock

traditional house at Honfleur

face of building at Honfleur

old traditional house in town

"skyline" of Honfleur

And one more reason to say "hello" to 'Honfleur' is the possibility to visit one of the largest wooden church in France. The 'Saint Catherine' with its separate belfry, made in wood too.

church Saint Catherine


the belfry of the Saint Catherine

square in front of the Saint Catherine

I think the 'Saint Catherine' is the most beautiful "church of the fishermen" I've ever seen in my life.
Everything in wood! Amazing. It shifts you back in time. Like that. :-)
Today the church is used as a museum.

But the village itself is beautiful too. Not only because of the old dock.
There is so much more to discover. In these small streets, with all their wonderful little shop.
Love it!

in the street of Honfleur

street view of Honfleur

But I give you the space to discover 'Honfleur'by yourself. ;-)
And you really should.
Here the link Honfleur for more details.

I had such a great day at 'Honfleur' and can only recommend it to you.
Just one advice: the best time to come is in spring or autumn. Cause in summer it will be over packed. That you can count on.
But do it like me.
A little day trip on a beautiful weekend in autumn to this town is already like some long summer holiday.
Your soul will smile like the sun.

:-)

perfect cake dessert recipe: fruit pudding

2012-01-16T14:32:00.001+01:00

Coucou!

Sometimes, when I have some friends/guest coming in for diner or even just for a coffee in the afternoon, I bake a simple cake with some fruits.

fruit pudding

Easy to prepare and quickly done (told you already, the cakes I prefer! ;-)).
It is so simple that it has no name.Just call it a fruit pudding.
But it is such a perfect cake dessert, believe me, cause the result is always the same:
"Gee, this is delicious!" "Sooo lekker! What is this?" "Yummy!! I need the recipe! Could you give it to me PLEASE????!!!!"
I can tell you, that is such a good feeling! :-)
You are the "master chef"!
You did something people wanna have. They would even pay for it!
But forget about that.
You can't buy it.
It is not "for sale".
You will get it for free!
As I am always saying: Beautiful (in this case delicious) things deserve to be mentioned.
I am going to share it with you!
Yepa! Cause you really should try this recipe by yourself!
And by the way, just for you to know, this pudding recipe isn't my idea. It is original created by 'Jamie Oliver'.
Aha..! Here we talk. :-)
Yes, I saw once a show of him where he baked it. Without any details, just saying you need eggs, flour, sugar.... blablaba. And then he did it live on screen. It looked so good that I had to try it by myself.

Okay, and now, dedicated to all my friends "Sandy, Julia, Estelle, Brune, Melanie, Victoire, Sarah, ....
Are you prepared? Here it comes, as I promised, THE recipe of the fruit pudding you love ;-) :

A casserole for 4- 6 people
fruits
sugar
2 coffee spoons of water or juice

125 g butter
125 g sugar
2 eggs
125 g flour
vanilla sugar or cinnamon

You see, one more time, easy. Nothing special. But the result is always a hit!
For those who have tried it already: isn't it??!!
And it doesn't matter what kind of fruit you are going to use, apple, banana, cherry, litchi... fresh or those in tins. Up to your taste. It will be yummy.
Me, my favorite pudding is with fresh cherries and a bit of vanilla.
But as we have winter right now, I did it this time with some apples, pears and cinnamon.

First you should cut the fruits into small pieces. Don't ask for how many "apples" you need. Have no clue. It depends on the seize of them. My tip: after cuting, give the pieces directly into the casserole. When it will be all covered by the fruits, you got enough!

casserole covered with apples & pears

Then give some sugar with a bit of water into a pan. When it starts to melt roast the fruits in it. It will smell like caramel now. Mmmmh....!

But roast it not too long. Just a few minutes.
After that the fruits are going back into the casserole. And stay quiet! ;-)

Now the mixture:
Mix everything together. That's it. No tricks.
Just one little advice: The butter should be not too cold. It makes it easier to mix it with the rest.
.

Butter on the scale - luckily not me! ;-)

The final mixture!

final mixture

And then you give it over the fruits.
It doesn't have to be fully covered as you can see.
Just give some vanilla sugar or sugar mixed with some cinnamon on top of it and it is ready to be baked.

fruit pudding before

The temperature is 180 Celsius and it should stay in there for 20 minutes.
When it will look like this, you did good job! ;-)

fruit pudding ready to eat

I only can repeat myself. This cake is such a perfect dessert when you are having guest. Cause you can prepare it before everyone is arriving. And when you start to serve the main course, give the mixture into the oven and 20 minutes later you can present the pudding already. Fresh and still warm. Yummy!

Another nice idea is to give the cake mixture into small casseroles.
So when you serve it everyone has his own little "surprise-box" to open.
People always love that and me too! :-)

small casserole with fruit pudding

That's it.
I fullfilled my promise and hopefully a lot of people/friends are happy now to bake this fruit pudding by themself and become the next "master chef"!

See you

:-)

The clock of the organ of Saint Roch

2012-01-10T15:03:00.001+01:00

Hallöchen!

I've visited one more time a beautiful church. Here in Paris in the city center.
And one more time my little girl was one of the reason why I went in.
Cause normally I had an other plan for this day.
But she loves to visit churches. Even if you have to be very quiet and aren't allowed to run.
She always ask for. Cute isn't it?!
And I am fine with that.
I like churches, mosques, temples and so on, too. Seen a lot so far in my live. Of all kind of religions.
These big "houses" are just impressive! A wonder of construction, creativity and peace.
The seize of it, the paintings, the frescoes, the furniture... everything.
And it doesn't matter if you are a member or not, You are always welcome. :-)
Honestly, I think, no matter if you believe in "God", "Allah", "Buddha" or someone/-thing else: "his" or "her" mission was/is to see us happy, that we treat everyone nicely and with respect, no matter who you are, where you are coming from or what faith/culture you got. That we should live together side by side in freedom. Cause we are one world! And that is for me is what these "houses" are standing for.

So happy us, that we (me and my family) are living in Paris.
Here are so many beautiful churches! Just amazing.
Like this one for example we've just visited:

The church 'Saint Roch' in the "rue St. Honoré" in the 1th arr.

Saint Roch

With its small passage outside.

Passage of Saint Roch

side entrance of Saint Roch

Yep, this is a side entrance of the church.
Nice isn't it?! Covered with all these plants! Beautiful idea!

But let's go inside now.

central aisle of Saint Roch

I am always impressed about the seize of a church.
When you are standing outside in front of it you think, yes, it is big.
But when you are entering the room you are just speechless.
So huge! All this space! How have they built it?!
Amazing!
And then all these wonderful colors. The paintings on the wall and ceiling. Beautiful!

dome of Saint Roch

ceiling

central aisle

desk

My little girl has always a favorite place in a church. The crèche. And I have to admit this one, at the "Saint Roche" is really great!

the crèche

But what I like the most of a church is the organ.
The big one, which is placed over the entrance.
Cause you always find a small organ just close to the Lord's table, too. But this one I don't mean.

Organ of Saint Roch

Organ with a clock

To me an organ is one of the most beautiful instrument of the world and a pleasure to listen to.
A bit like a miracle. How it is working. All the buttons you have to push at the same time while you are playing with your hands and feet! Fantastic!
And this organ at the "Saint Roch" is a bit special, don't you think so?!
I never saw a clock installed in an organ! Do you?
What does that mean?
Even in a church, our time is running?! We have to be aware?! ????
Have no clue and unfortunately there was no one to ask.
So I have to come back, to get the answer! :-)

I think it was a very nice idea of my girl to make a little stop and visit the church of "Saint. Roch".
Thank you for that my sweet!

Anyway, we should listen more often to our kids.
It keeps us grounded, happy, healthy and curious to discover our beautiful world!

:-)

Gourmet at 'Oresto'

2012-01-09T15:50:00.000+01:00

Hello!

This weekend I went one more time to one of my favorite restaurants, called Oresto.
It is placed in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb of Paris. A very convenient area cause you have 2 metro connection, a lot of green (like the Parc Edmond de Rothschild or the Bois de Boulogne) many nice shops (caneles) and good restaurants.
Like Oresto for example.
A typical french restaurant...

Oresto Bar

Oresto Restaurant

with a nice little "stilles Örtchen" as we say it in Germany- the restroom.

Oresto "stilles Örtchen"

I love this corner with the light.
Giving a nice warm and relaxing atmosphere. That's why I had to take a photo of it!
But coming back to the important part now.

The service at Oresto is very friendly and the food is just delicious.
Everything what I like! :-)
Specially at the winter season they serve "Parmentiere de canard".
That is mashed potatoes with roasted duck in the middle and some foie gras on the top.
Such a "gourmet"!

Parmentiere de canard

This is sooooo yummy, I can tell you!
But this time my love took the "parmentiere" and I had a "Milaniase", a "Schnitzel" with pasta.
To change a bit, cause as you won't get the "canard" in summer (too "heavy") I eat it quiet often in winter.

Milanaise

Good choice. Delicious.
The Milanaise was exact as well as it has to be:
Big, crusty and light!

Milanaise

But I think, next time I wanna be a gourmet again and order the duck one more time.
I know, I am a "Schlemmermäulchen" ( a bit like a feast mouth)!
But the summer is coming quick, so I have to eat in advance! ;-)

If you would like to see a bit more of Oresto, just click here
It is a link with a video of the restaurant and the address of it.

And who knows, maybe next lunch we will be both gourmets and sitting together at the Oresto!

Bon appétit!

:-)

Palais Royal

2012-01-03T15:56:00.002+01:00

Hello!

Wish you a happy, healthy, lovely new year!
Hope, you had a great start, smooth and relaxed like I had.

I went yesterday downtown Paris to buy some more of my favorite chocolate bread spread (I've talked about it at marc-and-lil-sin). Mine is already empty again. And I am addicted to it, I told you ! ;-)
But before, I made a quick stop at the 'Palais Royal', to show you a beautiful perfumery called 'Serge Luten'. Unfortunately, they did stocktaking yesterday. So I had to postpone it for another time. But it will come, I'll promise! :-)
So, as I was already there, I thought, I could take some photos of this square. I never did so far.
The 'Palais Royal' stands toward the Louvre. A beautiful palace with an inside garden and forecourt screened with column and arcades.
I didn't took a photo of the palace. They are doing some restoration right now.
But of the garden and the galleries I made some.

garden of Palais Royal

forcourt Palais Royal

arcades at the garden

Colonnade in the Palais Royal

forecourt screened with column

The 'Palais Royal' was opened to the public in 1784. It became a shopping and entertainment district. Boutiques, cafés, restaurants, hair salons, bookshops, museums, and countless refreshment kiosks are placed over there.
The 'Palais-Royal' also contained as one of the most important public theaters in Paris the Théâtre du Palais-Royal.

Théâtre du Palais-Royal

                             In 1799, the theater became the home of the
                             Comédie-Française or Théâtre-Françaiswhich
                             it remains today.

Théâtre du Palais-Royal

It is really nice over there, a bit "chi-chi" like always in the 1th.arr., but so what.
I like this square and its street arround.

street behind Palais Royal

Yes, this house is standing not straight! It is not because of a mountain or so.

opposite of the Théâtre Palais Royal

I love this little private entrance to an apartment. Reminds me on the old times, when no car were existing.

And that's it for today.
Next time I wanna show what I bought beside the chocolate. Something colorful!
But this have to wait! ;-)
Have a nice day and talk to you soon!

:-)

A Photo-Retrospection 2011

2011-12-30T14:35:00.002+01:00

Hello!

Only one more day and 2011 is already history!
Amazing!
When you are a child, you have the feeling time is running slowly. Just finished the last vacation, first day back in school and already looking forward for the next one but this seems to be dinosaur-years far away! ;-)
But for us, the adults, it is unbelievable how fast the weeks are passing by.
Wasn't yesterday still summer?
Sometimes I wish I could stop the time. Not totally. Only for some moments, which have been beautiful or lovely. Would be great.
Good that in our modern times we can keep memories not only in our mind but on photos or videos too! This is such a wonderful fabrication. I don't wanna miss them anymore.
Specially when you removed to another country. Now, your family and friends are far away.
At this moment photos and videos become an important factor concerning sharing details of your life. So great! :-)
So, just because of the circumstance I left Germany and placeded nicely myself in Paris, I've started to do my own music and to take some photos of all the beautiful things which crosses my way. To mention and to share it with you!
Happy me! :-)

That brings me to my main topic today:
My retrospection 2011.
A collection of my favorite 20 photos of this blog.

Voilà!
That's it!

My retrospection of 2011!

Hope, you had as much pleasure as me this year.
At this moment I wanna thank you for your support and interest.
It makes me really, really happy and is one of the best 10 best moments/emotions of the year for me!
I'm looking forward to discover many more beautiful things in 2012 and to mention them to you!
So wishing you a fantastic, wonderful and happy end of this year!
And to make sure you got the right music...

;-)))

Stay healthy and join you here next year again!

xxx
Crisber :-)

an elk & recipe of the day: Vanille Kipferl

2011-12-29T14:39:00.000+01:00

Bonjour!

Even if Christmas is over again, it doesn't mean that the "cookies-baking-time" is finished too.
Oh no. Definitely not.
You can ALWAYS eat cookies! :-)
And specially this year.
You should know, usually I am leaving 'Paris' one week before Christmas, to drive to my house in the landscape not far away from Lyon. My second home! :-)
Then I have enough time to do all the preparation for Christmas: decorate the tree, bake cookies and cakes, prepare the meal... and so on.
But this time I had to work up till the 24th in the afternoon. Uff!
Then, finally, I could jump into the train to take the direction of home. And even my love did all the stuff for me (deco the tree, warm up the house, bake biscuit,...so cute!), cause he was already waiting for me over there, it wasn't the same. Something was missing:
My 'Vanille Kipferl'!

Vanille Kipferl

It became kind of a must or better a little tradition to eat some at Christmas. They are so yummy! :-)
Yes, for sure I could have baked some 'Kipferl' on the 25th. But I have to admit, I was a bit lazy at Christmas. I did nothing at all. Just relaxing and enjoying the time together with my loves! WONDERFUL! No duties. Love it!
But the 'Vanille Kipferl'....
Even my love has missed them. He likes them very much too.
So okay, I decided to bake them now and share it as the recipe of the day with you.
Cause, how I already said at the beginning: Cookies you can always eat. You need no special occasion for that. :-)

Here the recipe of the Vanille Kipferl:

250g flour
100g   sugar
50g   ground almonds
    1     package vanilla sugar
    1     pinch of salt
1     egg yolk
150g very cold butter

for the topping:
powdered sugar mixed with some vanille sugar

Okay, let's start.
Today I have some support, my elk 'Rudi'!
I've found him two years ago, lonely, with only one arm left.
Pour little one!
I just had to take care of him. So, since then he got a home and became a family member. ;-)

elk Rudi & Vanille Kipferl ingredient

But back to the recipe.
Mix the flour, sugar, salt, almonds,vanilla sugar and the egg yolk all together.
Then give the ice-cold butter in little pieces on top of it

give butter in little pieces to it

and mix it up till the moment it became a smooth pastry. Make a ball of it, cover it with a plastic wrap and give it for half an hour in the refrigerator.
Not you Rudi! You take too much space in the fridge! ;-)

elk Rudi & the Vanille Kipferl pastry

After that roll the pastry into finger seize noodles (or the arm size of elk Rudi ;-) )
and cut them into 5-10 cm pieces. Depends on what you prefer. I like them, when they are not too big.

elk Rudi and the Vanille Kipferl noodles

Now place the 'Vanille Kipferl' for 10 minutes (not more otherwise they are getting too dry!)
at 180°Celsius in the oven.
When they look like this

Vanille Kipferl in the oven

just a tiny bit brown at the end, but still soft in the middle, take them out. Even you think they could still stay for one or two more minutes. No. Believe me. They will get too dry.
Then let the 'Vanille Kipferl' relax a bit ( for maximum 5 minutes, they still have to be warm).
After that take them carefully from the baking try and give the 'Kipferl' into the powdered sugar-vanilla sugar mixture.

elk Rudi, the sugar mixture & the Vanille Kipferl

Voilà! Fini.
Ready to eat!

But be careful, if you have an "elk" at home too, you should better hide the Vanille Kipferl, otherwise he finishes it all immediately!

;-)

Street & Square of Edouard VII

2011-12-22T22:11:00.000+01:00

Coucou!

When you are downtown "Paris", at the 'Place de l'Opera' and you turn left into the direction of 'Place de la Madeleine' you have the chance to discover "eine kleine Perle" - a little pearl.
A "private" street, closed with some barriers that no car can cross.
The 'Rue Edouard VII' and its square.

the street Edourad VII

the charm of Rue Edouard VII

The rue Edouard VII has a special charm.
The facades are cut from stone and traditional plaster preserving the listed buildings throughout the precinct. It is a very beautiful corner.

restaurant at rue Edouard VII

facade of Rue Edouard VII

Form 1921 up to 1995, this area has been occupied and privatized by the central offices of a big French bank. The Rue Edouard VII has been the center of the daily life for the bank’s employees .
Then in 1992, this bank decided to move many of its Parisian activities to “Val de Fontenay” and “La Défense”, two big districts close to Paris .

Place/square Edouard VII

The area Edouard VII , the street and the square, is today a place for offices, hotels, private apartments, shops and theaters on a luxury standard.

Rue Edouard VII

If you're wondering why you don't see anybody on the street:
First I can wait for the moment nobody will be on the photo. ;-)
And second: I've been there last Sunday morning, at 10 a.m..
A perfect time to discover Paris. Cause it is nice and quiet then. You won't see lot of the Parisian on the street. They like to start late on the weekend. Specially the weekends befor Christmas!
But I do. It is so nice and quiet then. Like that!
To be a early bird!

:-)

The speech: Severin Suzuki at the UN

2011-12-22T16:43:00.000+01:00

Hello!

Today a friend of mine posted this video at 'facebook' and I just have to share it with you

It is/was just straight to the point how/what this girl, Severn Suzuki age of 12, was talking about in front of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (known as the "Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro" in 1992).

This happened in 1992!!!!!

I have just respect and honor for Severn Suzuki.
And hopefully a lot of people will reach this speech and change their way of life!
We can help changing the world by our self!

:-)

recipe of the day: Florentine with nuts

2011-12-20T15:32:00.000+01:00

Salut!

Maybe you already noticed, that I love nuts. Roasted with some sugar that it caramelized the nuts.
Mmmmh.... Yummy!
That is why very often the cakes or biscuits which I bake are mixed with some.
It is a very delicious taste, I think. Not only nice to eat in the winter season.
Do you remember this cherry pecan crumble cake I baked in the summer?!
It was so much better with the roasted pecans than without it.
I have to give you another time the recipe. You have to try it!
It was really really good.
But not now.
Cause today I wanna share with you my latest aquirement: 'Florentine'.

My recipe of the day:
'Florentine'- without any kind of candied orange or lemon peel!!!
I am not a fan of that. Are you?
It is always too much flavor, too sweet and reducing the nuts taste.
No, thank you, not for me. I prefer it pure.
Unfortunately, most of the time, you only get them with candied fruit peel.
Such a pity!
Cause I love 'Florentine' just with caramel and nuts!!
So I said to myself: Crisber instead of complaining or bubbeling do it!
Bake some by yourself. Couldn't be so tricky!

Okay, okay, will do.
What do I need?

The Florentine recipe:

Sugar    175g
                             Got it.
Butter         125g
Honey        75g
                             Got it too.
Cream       15dl
Nuts     200g
                              Got some.

ingredients for Florentiner

That's it.
That is all?
These fixings I have always at home!
Why haven't I made them before?
Seems to be easy. So let's start!
I am ready to bake 'Florentine'!!

First step:
Melt very slowly butter and sugar in a pot. That it becomes caramel.

Give then cream and honey into the pot and let everything cook on a small flame for the next 5 minutes.

the cream for the Florentine

While the butter/honey/sugar/cream is melting cut the nuts. My version of this recipe is with nuts, almonds and pistachios. But it doesn't have to be like this. You can use pine nut, hazelnuts, sunflower seed, pecans.... too. Up to you.
What ever you prefer.

cut the nut

Don't cut them into too small pieces. Otherwise the 'Florentines' are becoming too soft. And it tastes better when they are still a bit crunchy.
Then let the nuts "fall" into the cream

nutsfall

and cook it for 5 more minutes.

mix the nuts into the cream

After that you give everything flat on a baking tray,

baking tray with Florentine

or into little muffin cases and bake it 10-12 minutes at 200 Celsius.

Florentine in muffin cases

Then you don't have to cut them into peaces and they 'll get easily off.
Now bake the 'Florentine' for 10-12 minutes at 200 Celsius.

Florentine

Looks nice, doesn't it?
And this wasn't difficult at all.
If you want to, you can cover the 'Florentine' with some dark chocolate.
But first you have to cool it off.

Or another idea (which I already tried): break the 'Florentine' into little peaces and give it into a glass. Then mix some fresh vanilla with natural yogurt and a bit of whipped cream and give this on top of the 'Florentine'.
Voilà, you have a quick and easy but very delicious dessert!
Bon appétit!

:-)

@Lille: skull,dwarf & deer antler at 'memento mori'

2011-12-16T15:48:00.000+01:00

Guten Tag!

Friday, last day of the week and last episode of @Lille for this time. There will some more post of @Lille coming, don't worry. In the future. Cause it haven't been my last trip to this city. And you can count on that! :-)

As I told you yesterday, I wanna show you another beautiful interior decoration shop in downtown 'Lille'.
The 'Memento Mori'.
There you can get some art, design, fashion, jewelry and much more. The shop is very nice designed. Stylish with the love to the detail. And again the service is friendly, helpful and smiley.
Like it very much. :-)

Memento mori

fashion at memento mori

The main topic, as the name 'Memento Mori' is already pronouncing it, is the "death". You will find there many things with a skull on it or designed like one. In a very beautiful way. Not totally dark and scary.

skull umbrella

skull decoration

But my favorite thing at 'Memento mori' isn't a skull.
And it is not only “one“. No. You need three.
Three black dwarfs, in the position of "I don't hear, I don't see I don't talk".
My friend at ‘Lille‘ got them in gold. But I prefer the black edition.
And they sell some more different kind of dwarfs at the shop. Like it! :-)

the dwarfs

And for all the guys who are a bit fed up of all the expensive shopping of their girl friend here the ultimate shopping bag

blow up the Haute Couture ;-)

;-)
So funny.
Last but not least something my kids liked very much.
No Skull and no dwarfs (too monochrome for them).
No, they would love to have some deer antler it in their room.
Yes.
A wall full of colored deer antler like this:

Memento Mori art

Good that we will celebrate Christmas in one week. I told them to ask Santa Claus.
But as it is already a bit too late to beg for some more gifts, I proposed, they should keep it in mind for next year. Hopefully they will forget it! ;-)

For you to check out some more beautiful stuff at Memento Mori, just click on the name.

Okay my friends. Chapter @Lille is done for this time.
Hope you had a good week like me and talk to you on the next post!
Enjoy your weekend!

:-)

@Lille: 'fire design'

2011-12-15T14:32:00.000+01:00

Hello!

When I am at 'Lille', I always do a little decoration/accessory tour. I never make some shopping for clothes or so (my love is happy about that! ;-) ). This is more less the same as in Paris. But for the interior decoration, it is like a dreamland! There are so many nice shops and outlet stores with beautiful designs to discover at 'Lille'.
You have to know, many manufactures of furniture and interior decoration are placed not far away from 'Lille'. This is very often a reason why it is not as expensive as in the capital city. :-)

So, I wanna show you two very nice, but totally different shops :
The first one is called 'Fire-Design' and the other 'Memento Mori'.
Both shops you will find at the historic center city of 'Lille', which I've presented it to you on my last post of @Lille.
Let's start with fire!:-)

What is 'Fire-Design'?

Fire Design at Lille

'Fire Design' is for your safety.
At home, at your office, for your car or where ever.
At Fire Design you can get unique designed fire extinguisher for your home.
For me the traditional extinguisher is big and red. Not very stylish. Taking a lot of space and something you really wanna hide. That is why, I guess, many people have none at home. Which I can understand but isn't good. No, no, no. Cause the eventuality of a fire at home isn't impossible.

Rodolphe Gimenez, the creator of the 'Fire Design', had once the same thought. So he decided to combine design and safety and to say "bye-bye" to the old ugly big red extinguisher system!

So in this shop 'Fire Design' you find a collection of very beautiful modern fire extinguisher,...

fire extinguisher

...you won't hide.
No, these extinguisher you wanna present at your home! :-)

saving box

But you can get much more over there.
Bags, saving box,...

Fire Design Shop Lille

... or this original american helmet!

original american fire helmet

You also have the possibility to create,
draw or choose any of your favorite pictures
for your own unique an original fire extinguisher!
They will make it for you. Nice! Isn't it?!

Need more details? Click Fire Design, please.

So maybe this sexy red extinguisher has been a special order too????!!! ;-)

Yes, this is one, too. Funny! What did you thought it was?

I think, it is a great idea! And very trendy.
And for sure, I already can call one mine and placed it (for every one to see) in my kitchen! :-)

my fire extinguisher

Let's rock the house!
It is for your security!

;-)

@Lille: a beautiful city and a waffle

2011-12-12T19:13:00.000+01:00

Hello!
I think I already mentioned that 'Lille' is one of my favorite city of France. Didn't I?!
Yes. It is. Could also imagine to live there, too.
I know, for a 'Parisian' it is impossible even to think about it. "It is too cold, and too rainy". Never been there, but it is too small". "What do you/could you do there at 'Lille'. In the "Nord"? "They are only eating fries and drinking 'Ricoré' (an instant coffee product containing chicory, composed of 40% coffee and 60% chicory, so not a real coffee)". "Just special." ;-)
I told you a bit of this attitude and the famous funny movie "Welcome to the Chti" the last time when I was in Lille.
But, did you know that 'Lille' is the fourth-largest city of France behind those of 'Paris', 'Lyon' and 'Marseille'.
Yes. Here we talk! :-)

I like to be in 'Lille'. It is a very beautiful city.
And I have some lovely friends over there too. So each time, when I am there, they show me so many wonderful places and shops at/around 'Lille'. Fantastic.
Please, let me quickly mention at this moment Valerie and Pierre-Yves, my friends at 'Lille', who are such a great guides to me: Thank you for all your tips and ideas. You are just the best. And because of you, my car is always packed like hell on the way back to 'Paris'! Merci, Merci! Merci! ;-)

But now back to my mine topic.
The next days I wanna mention some more beautiful things of 'Lille'.
Today I start with a small collection of black&white photos of the historic city center.

Église Saint-Maurice de Lille

church Saint-Maurice of Lille

This church is the 'Église Saint-Maurice' of 'Lille'.
The construction began at the end of the 14th century and completed at the end of the 19th century, it was extended over more than four centuries. What a long long time. ;-)

Not far away from the 'Saint-Maurice' is the 'old stock market', the "Vieille Bourse", with a beautiful inner courtyard.

Le Vieille Bourse of Lille

Vieille Bourse of Lille

inner courtyard of the old stock market

The oldest town of 'Lille' invites you to take a walk down the streets. Slowly. No stress. Take your time. To have a look at the beautiful old houses, make some shopping (;-9), to eat a merveilleux or


traditional waffle

some typical delicious waffle! Fresh. Hot. Yummy!

Anyway, the streets are small, even if you would like to you can't run. And that is wonderful. Everybody takes his time! :-)

face of a building in Lille

typical face of a building of the historic city center of Lille

in the street of Lille

in the street of the old town of Lille

Last but not least for today I wanna show you the belfry of the 'Chamber of commerce' of Lille. It looks a bit like a church, but it isn't. Given its height of 76 meters, its striking belfry is a major landmark in the Downtown area of the city. It was built in 20th century. It is impressive and a visit worth it.

The belfry of Lille

Chamber of commerce of Lille


Chamber of commerce of Lille

That was it. My little gallery of the city of 'Lille' for today.
Hope you've enjoyed it and got some motivation to discover the city by yourself.

And what this could be and where you can get it

that I'm gonna show you tomorrow!
See you!

:-)

a hot chocolate at 'Le Grand'

2011-12-09T14:37:00.000+01:00

Coucou!

What could this be?

a star, a sun, a cristmas tree?

Any idea?
You only have to take a position underneath, then it will look like that.
Exactly. It is a beautiful antique light, which I adore.

an ancienne light

After I've watched the show cases of marionettes at Galeries LaFayette and Printemps, I went to this beautiful place just around the corner.
Primary it is a hotel. The InterContinental Paris Le Grand.
A very nice one.
But I don't need a bed in Paris, got one already! ;-)
And just because of the fact that it is a hotel, it doesn't mean, that you should go there only for staying over night.
Not at all!
An aperitif, a lunch, a dinner or just a delicious hot chocolate at the hotel lobby is always a visit worth it.
And you should do so, if you are not already a guest of the hotel. :-)
Cause first of all, it has a wonderful atmosphere, a very friendly service and then, the hot chocolate, it is just yummy!
For you to get an idea of what I'm talking about, some more photos of the place.

Le Grand the lobby

the lobby of Le Grand

This is La Verrière, an impressive, 800 square meter winter garden. It is the lobby of the hotel.

And there on this sofa I took

perfect sofa to drink a hot chocolate

A yummy hot chocolate:

Always when i order a hot chocolate, I have immediately this song of Alicia Keys You don't know my name in mind. Where she is saying: "You always take a hot chocolate and a special". Love this song. She is such a great artist! And so beautiful!

But back to my hot chocolate! :-)

The patisserie of the hotel is making the hot chocolate not only with instant cacao. No, they're using pure chocolate. And that you can taste!
It is a "Bonheur", as the Frenchman says.
And you don't get just a cup. Forget about that. A full little silver can filled with this hot chocolate.
Love it.
And beside they serve small 'macarons'. Made by the patisserie of Le Grand too, for sure.
But these 'macarons' I can't show you.
Unfortunately. Or not.
My kids eat same too quick for me to have a chance to take photo. But they said they've been very tasty! So you have to take it like that. ;-)

From the lobby you have a direct access to the Café de la Paix, which is on the other side of the hotel Le grand.

Café de la Paix

There you can take your breakfast/lunch/diner or a drink, too. The Chef proposes updated classic recipes on a very high standard.

By the way, the decoration of the Café is very beautiful. The fresco ceilings or the gilded wood paneling reminds you on the good traditional times of Paris in a modern way.

As I like black &white photos, I took some in this style, to separate it a bit from the hotel.

restaurant of Café de la Paix

inside the Café de la Paix

the bar of Café de la Paix

art at Café de la Paix

Beautiful isn't it?!
But my favorite place at the hotel is at La Verrière, the red sofa. So comfortable.
And who knows, maybe we're going to see us for a hot chocolate at the Le Grand!

:-)

Show case & marionettes of Galeries LaFayette & Printemps

2011-12-07T12:56:00.000+01:00

Bonjour!

Every year before Christmas the two big fashion stores Printemps and Galeries La Fayette decorate their show cases in a special way:
With marionettes.
Which are moving and dancing.
It look just great and is one of the main attraction in Paris at the Christmas time.
And they are changing the topic every year.
I remember, last time the marionettes were dressed in the way of the pop group ABBA.
And dancing to the songs of.
Gorgeous!

This year Printemps presents Chanel with Karl Lagerfeld.
And Galeries LaFayette is doing the Rock Star and Fashion Show.

I took some photos for you to get a better impression.

First the show cases of Printemps.

Printemps

Would like to have this red coat and the boots.
Looks great together, don't you think so too?!
And the make up.... Beautiful!
What do you think, is it Chanel too?! ;-)

Oh and the curlers. I know them by heart. Looking very often like this, too!
Don't believe it?
Just click here myspace.com/crisbermusic and you will see.....! ;-)

Karl Lagerfeld at Printemps

Glasses, hair cut, outfit, jewels...... Exactly like Karl Lagerfeld!
I'm asking myself who has been the first one on earth. Lagerfeld or the marionettes?
Cause they look like siblings! ;-)

Karl Lagerfeld at Printemps

Printemps

That was Printemps.
And now the photos of the show cases of Galeries La Fayette:

Galeries LaFayette

Wanna be a Rock Star!!!!
:-)

Galeries LaFayette

Have a look for all the little accessory.
The tiger glasses, the jewelry or the hair cut for example!
Love it!
It is a bit a pity, that they are only doing this at Christmas.
But I can't understand. It is a huge project. And better once in a year than never, you agree?

Okay, but now back to some more photos.

Galeries La Fayette

Galeries LaFayette

Galeries LaFayette/ curlers

Did you noticed how the marionettes are dressed?!
Amazing!
That is Marionettes Haute-Couture

But my favorite one this year, is this guy:

Galeries LaFayette

Girl(s), give me a break. Got enough! ;-)

For those of you who would like to know:

Andrew Yang created the marionettes for Galeries LaFayette.
And the vitrine of Printemps: Jean-Claude Dehix is in charge of the marionettes, created by Kouz production and the illustrations were done by costumes3pieces.

Honestly, I never saw something like this before.
It is just beautiful. Not only a pleasure for kids.
And it is always a big surprise what Printemps and Galerie LaFayette are going to present.
How the marionettes will look like and what they are going to do.

So if your are planing to come to Paris to do some Christmas shopping, you have to go there. But don't do it on a Saturday, it will be overcrowd.
But a Sunday morning before 10 a.m. isn't a very bad timing.
After that you still can do your shopping or drinking a very good pure chocolate.
And where you get this fantastic hot chocolate,....
that, I will tell you next time!

:-)

Mickey Mouse & Christmas shopping at the Grand Comptoir

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000+01:00

Hallöle!

From time to time I like to go on a weekend to the 'Grand Comptoir' in 'Surenes', not far away from downtown 'Paris'. Specially on a Sunday morning when it is raining.
It is like a habit already. After the breakfast at 10 a.m. I take the direct way to go over there
And I always could leave a fortune over there, believe me. :-)
The Grand Comptoir is a beautiful shop, where you can find nice fashion for women, men or kids, lovely interior decoration/furniture and much more. I love it and you know that I like to shop!
You always find a good reason to spend some money. Even more now, because of Christmas! ;-)

Entrance of the Grand Comptoir

Right now, as in every other shop, the main topic of the decoration at the Grand Comptoir is 'Christmas', for sure. But not only.
For example when you enter the shop, a big red 'Mickey Mouse' is already welcoming you.

Mickey Mouse at Grand Comptoir

This 'Mickey Mouse' is a 'limited edition' and available in different kind of colors. Like blue or silver.
Cute. I like it and my kids even more. Unfortunately I don't have space for it at home
But if you are interested in you can order it particular at the Grand Comptoir in 'Surenes'.

You need some more information? Feel free to click here Grand Comptoir for the access to their internet presentation.

But not only this Mickey Mouse is a good reason to go over there. When you are at the entrance turn to the left. There you can shop beautiful Christmas decoration as well as dishes, delicatessen, books, or blankets.

shopping for the interior

Christmas decoration

dishes and accessories

Or if you wanna make some shopping of clothes, shoes, bags, belts a.s.o., no big deal. Just turn to the right and there you find everything what dresses us beautiful!

fashion for men/women and kids

I found this beautiful blue clutch for example. Very simple but très chic!
Like it very much.
Sorry, I forgot to have a look at the label.
But I hope it it doesn't matter and Santa Claus will know it! ;-)

simple clutch in blue

Or this bonnet, to keep me warm and away from getting a flew. Cause I love to wear bonnets .
I think they are not only healthy but a nice accessory to. And so practically when you are having a bad hair day! ;-)
It is on my Christmas wish list too!

with this bonnet you won't get a fcold

And then last but not least I saw these super cool winter boots.
Just love them.
They are made by 'Sorel', a fantastic brand for good looking and comfortable shoes.

winter boots by Sorel

Aren't they beautiful?!
So please, dear Mr. Santa Claus, just these 3 little gifts. I guess it won't be such a big deal for you, yes?! :-))))
I've been a good good girl! :-)
But Santa Claus, you better should hurry up top make sure you'll get them. Cause it is very popular to shop at the Grand Comptoir. Not only at Christmas!

;-)

travel to the cliff line of 'Etretat'

2011-11-30T18:25:00.001+01:00

Salut!

If you would like to do a little travel just for a weekend at a beautiful place, but so far you have no idea where to go, here my tip:
A beautiful beach at the north west coast of France.

the beach of Fecamp

This is the beach of 'Fecamp'.
Now you can say " Why should I spend a weekend at the beach in the winter season? When it's cold. Beach = summer."
You are right.
But first, it won't be overcrowd :-)
second, the air at this time at a beach is just fantastic and so healthy :-))
and last but not least: you have some beautiful days in winter, too. ;-)
Like I had, when I spent a weekend over there.

Fecamp

So I started my travel in 'Fecamp'.
A beautiful seaside resort in the region of the 'Haute-Normandie'. Not far away from 'Etretat', the place with the most famous cliff line -'Falaise'- in the world, I think.
'Fecamp' has already a beautiful cliff line, too. Which you can climb, as you can see on the photo above.
But I stayed at the beach.
I like to be at the beach in winter. It is just wonderful. The fresh air, love it! :-)

Port of Fecamp

And fresh air makes you always very hungry! :-)
So I had to make a stop at a small restaurant, close to the beach, to take a typical meal of this region:
'Crêpes', 'Galettes' and 'Cidre'

Le forban

Yummy! Exactly what I needed! :-)
After that, I was ready to climb the big cliff!
Here we are. The cliff line of 'Etretat'.

the cliff line of Etretat

the opposite of the cliff line

It is just impressive!
"Mother nature" is amazing!
You can't find words of how do you feel at that moment you see them.
Independent, small, free, lucky, speechless....
I could have stayed there all day long, just watching.
Our World is so beautiful! There is no doubt.

Then finally, I climbed all the steps up to the cliff line.
Can tell you, that is sport! Gee!
I mean, I am not in a bad shape, not at all. But I had to make some pauses from time to time. Yes!
But when you are on the top, you are so proud of yourself, that you did it.
And this view....
Wow!

Up on the cliff of Etretat

the town and beach of Etretat

the church of Etretat

For sure there is much more to discover. There is for example a nice golf course, too. But this on you to check it out! ;-)
Here the internet sites of Fecamp and Etretat

Cause my travel wasn't finished.
There was still 'Honfleur' on my travel list.
But this beautiful village I'm going to show you another day!

:-)

the cinema, 2 movies, Alain Delon and The Lady

2011-11-28T09:52:00.342+01:00

Hellooo!

On the basis of my occupation, I like to go very much to the cinema.
Specially in Paris, the movie offer is very various.
From French productions, foreign movies in original version, as far as repetitions of older films.
For each something takes part. They show a lot of good movies, can tell you!
And you won't have any kind of problems to go sometimes several times per week to the cinema.
Like I did last week.
I had the pleasure to go twice to the cinema. :-)

The first movie I saw, is a french production. 'Intouchables'.
It was just coming out this month and you should watch it if you haven't seen it so far.
I know, right know it is only existing in french.
But maybe they will show this movie in other languages, too. Then you shouldn't miss it.
It is a very good one. Nice shots, funny dialogs and the actors, just... great!
Such a pleasure!

For you to get some idea of it, briefly the story:
As a result of an accident of paragliding, the rich 'Philippe' sits in the wheelchair and is depended on help.
He hires 'Driss', a young person of suburb, who was hardly taken out of prison. In fact, the person the least adapted for the job.
Two universes are going to crumple up, become accustomed, to give birth to a friendship so crazy, funny and strong as unexpected, a unique relation which will make sparks …

To get a better impression, here the french trailer of the movie 'Intouchables'

'Intouchables'

So funny, with such a nice story.
Hope, you don't mind that is only in french.
Cause I can only recommend this movie.

The second film I saw at the same cinema in 'Boulogne-Billacourt', the 'Gaumont Pathé', is an old movie from 1969 with 'Romy Schneider' and 'Alain Delon'.
'La piscine' (the swimming-pool)

La Piscine

Yes again, in french. Today is the french channel open! ;-)
I never saw this film before. So it was even nicer to see it on a cinema screen.

The story of 'La Piscine':
Jean-Paul (Alain Delon) and Marianne (Romy Schneider) form an ideal couple and enjoy a peaceful existence in their villa of Saint-Tropez, until the day when Harry, together with his beautiful daughter Pénélope, arrives. The former lover of Marianne disturbs this quiet life. The tension rises.

Here a trailer of 'La piscine'

'La Piscine' - Original French Version

Liked it very much. The way there where shooting movies at that time. Nice.
By the way, it was not a normal presentation. The cinema had invited 'Alain Delon' to come.
Yes! The leading character of 'La Piscine'! Here we talk. The one and only! ;-)

in the middle: 'Alain Delon'

So after the movie 'Alain Delon' answered some questions. About him, the movie and his time/work together with 'Romy Schneider'. He was very kind. And I think, for a lot of women at this night, a little dream became true: To meet/see 'Alain Delon'.
I have to admit, he is very charming. :-)

Unfortunately first:
it wasn't allowed to take some pictures together with 'Alain Delon'. Only from your seat.
Then second:
I was sitting to far away. As you can see.

But I'm learning.
Next time, I can tell you, if it's 'George Clooney', I will have a front-row seat, that's for sure!
;-)

But the next movie I wanna see, is without 'George Clooney'.
The latest of 'Luc Besson', 'The Lady' sounds quiet interesting. This could be an idea.
Cause I really like the work of 'Luc Besson'. He is a fantastic story teller. And the life of 'Aung San Suu Kyi'- 'the Lady' is impressive.
If you are interested, too, have a look at this blog please the-lady-movie-trailer.blogspot.com.
:-)

Oh, before I forget, a little tip for you:
If you wanna go out and watch a movie in a cinema in Paris, it is advisable to buy the tickets in time.
The Frenchmen love go to the cinema!

:-)

a tradition, a "virgin", a hat: "Catherinettes"

2011-11-25T17:11:00.001+01:00

Coucou!

Did you know that today is the day of the "Saint-Catherine", the day of the "Catherinettes"?
No?
I also did not.
Knew nothing about it.
What you are "celebrating" at this day.
Up till this morning.

Cause I had a meeting at the studio of 'Goossens', a fantastic jeweler here in Paris.
They told me about a cute tradition in the 'Haute Couture houses', just because of this day.

"Catherinettes" were called young women, age of twenty-five years, who were still single at the celebrating of 'St. Catherine' (November 25th) in honor of 'Catherine of Alexandria', a virgin and martyr, a patroness of young girls.

So, this custom, through which the girls were making wishes for a "speedy marriage", has been preserved in an altered form in the middle of sewing and fashion where it traditionally brings special attention to the making of the hat. The traditional colors of the hat are yellow and green.

And today, in Paris, at the day of 'St. Catherine' all "Catherinettes" of the fashion houses usually receive at the Town Hall and get gifts by their employer, in addition to the hat, which was prepared by their colleagues.
Cute, isn't it?

Fore sure, because of our modern times this custom has changed a bit.
They don't take it so serious, more with a winking eye!
But I like the idea, and the hats!

Cause when I was at the studio of 'Goossens' in the morning, I've met a beautiful young lady, a "Catherinettes", with a magnificent hat!

BEAUTIFUL!
I had to take a photo ( with my iphone) and show it to you!
Look how this hat is designed.

These ornaments and jewelry!
Love it!
It is really awesome what they create at 'Goossens'.
Art.
Pure art.

You should have a look at their internet-site Goossens.
Then you can see the complete collection.

Oh oui,.... I wish could be 24 years old again.
Just for one day.
At the 25th of November!

;-)

old time car: oldtimer

2011-11-24T15:36:00.000+01:00

Hello!

Today I won't "bubble" a lot!
Sometimes it is better to be quiet and just to enjoy what you see!
;-)

I've made some photos of some beautiful old cars.
So I guess all guys are getting a bit more excited now.
Not always fashion and cakes. ;-)

Hope you will like my collection of "old-time-car"

I love this old Mercedes. So beautiful. Would like to have one like this.
Dream a little dream.....
And you?

:-)

every woman needs a 'LBD'

2011-11-22T12:12:00.001+01:00

Bonjour!

Who doesn't like to feel like a lady?
A beautiful, smart, classy and sexy lady.
Like these icons of the 40s/50s: 'Audrey Hepburn', 'Sophia Loreen' or 'Kathrine Hepburn' for example.
So adorable!
Don't know how many times I've watched all their movies when I was a kid/ teenager and I still do.
They were so pretty, so feminine (and by the way so talented, but that's an other topic).
The style of each individual was just straight to the point.
Without any "schnickschnack"/no-frills as we say it in Germany.
Always very well -high-necked- dressed. A sexy tight-fitting but with a pure, simple poshness, which doesn't need any kind of "strip to the buff".
Cause the style of these ladies already showed so much more confidence and autonomy, than any "provocation" of an "starlet" of our modern time, who only wants to get some attention.
No, no, no. Thank you. This does not interest me. Don't wanna look or feel like a stupid freak. Not at all. I prefer to have a touch of an "Audrey-lady". Simple like this. Just love it! :-)

And that brings me up to one of my favorite fashion labels. 'Karen Millen'.
If you are searching for glamorous, sexy but not too expensive fashion, here you'll get it.
Specially the dresses of 'Karen Millen' are perfectly cut and so feminine , that you do not just look like an icon you definitely feel so.
One dress of my 'Karen Millen Collection' ( got already, let me count, I think 4 dresses, 3 tops, a pair of gloves, pants and shoes) I wanna show you today. I really like it the most. It has this touch of the 'fifties' I spoked at the top.
My "little black dress".

I've bought the dress last winter in Paris.
I think, it is very important that every woman has at least one "LBD" in her closet.
It is always fitting, doesn't matter where you have to go. You will shine like a lady in you little black dress!
But, you have to be aware with the accessory.
Keep it simple.
You in your dress are the star.
It doesn't need much more.
I only took for my "LBD" some gloves, pumps (yeah, better so! ;-) ) and a small bag.
Nothing else.

The gloves and the shoes are by 'Karen Millen' too.
Only the small bag isn't.
That's made by 'Loxwood'. I've already present it to you on my little treasure.
And the guitar,... yeah, that is still decoration. Couldn't make it so far to learn how to play.
It is on my "will-do-list"! But it looks nice together, doesn't it?! ;-)

Oh, you wanna see how the dress looks when I wear it with the extras? Cause to see it there only hanging is bit boring?
No problem. Here we go.
Voilà!

photo by Anya Zuchold

Told you. A touch of the fifties.
Perfect cut. Nice fabric. Slightly thicker fabric, which makes it so comfortable to wear it in the winter season. And you feel so sexy in it! Just wow!

The color of my nails is this time 'Fuchsia' by Rouge Baiser. Talked about it at your-nails-your-diamonds.

So beautiful. And when I shot these photos a lot of people came to me to tell, that I'm looking so gorgeous, like one of these icons of the fifties! :-)))
Mission full-filled. :-)
Merci! Danke! Thank you!
So sweet of you! :-)
You wanna have a look on Karen Millen? Just click on it!

I have to mention one more thing and I really like to do this, cause I think she did one more time a very good job! Thank you very much Anya!

The 3 photos of me (lift, hand, foot) were shot by a photographer from Hamburg:
'Anya Zuchold'.
Normally all photos of my blog are made by myself.
But this time, when I was in Hamburg, I asked Anya to do it.
I needed some new photos for my "acting career". And it is always better if somebody else is doing that for you.
So if you are looking for a good photographer, here the link of Anya Zuchold.
I can only recommend her!

For you to know: The photos you see farther on top are just a very small part of it. I got many more.
If you are interested in, I can present it to you an other day.
Or some more of my collection of 'Karen Millen'.
Will be my pleasure!

:-)

chocolate cookies recipe

2011-11-16T22:22:00.002+01:00

Hello!

As already a lot of people asked me to present the recipe of my chocolate cookies (with special greetings to Bertille, my sweatheart :-)!), I will not longer hesitate.
Yes. I've talked already about them. Very briefly. At cookies and art, here on my blog.
But they deserve it, to be mentioned on an own post. They are simple but so good and just very popular, all the same which age, doesn't matter when, where, why... These cookies are always a little hit. Luckily! :-)

Okay, here it comes, my chocolate cookies recipe:

Chocolate Cookie Recipe

Ha! Got you! All in German! ;-)

But it isn't difficult to learn. Really. I will teach you. Then later you can say: I can already read and write in German! Isn't it cool???? ;-)

Okay, I think the first word is easy:

Butter - butter
Zucker - sugar (please the z like very sharp ts)
Eier - eggs
Vanillezucker - vanille sugar
Backpulver - backing powder ( the TL stands for Teelöffel- teaspoon)
Salz - salt
Mehl - flour
Schokolade - chocolate
dunkel - dark

And? Not so complicated, or what do you think?
Perfect. Welcome in the club of the Multilingual ones! ;-))

But now seriously.

You simply mix the sugar, butter and the vanilla sugar.

Cookie mixture the start

Then the eggs.
Don't worry if it will look like this, everything is fine. That's normal.

Cookie mixture I

Now, mix the flour, salt and the backing powder into the cake mixture.
At the end, if you wanna make the test, the teaspoon you used before, should stand by itself in the mixture. ;-)

Cookie mixture II

At least, cut the chocolate with a sharp knife into little pieces ( carefully, don't cut yourselves) and mix it into the cookie mixture.

Pure Chocolate

Set with 2 teaspoons walnut-sized portions on the baking tray. I never press this flat. Simply not too closely side by side.

Chocolate Cookies before

With 180 degrees approx. 10 minutes. When the chocolate cookies get a bit dark on the outside, take them out. They are done. Believe me. They still will be soft inside with a crunchy outside. Otherwise, if they stay a bit longer in the oven, they are going to get to dry. But if they look like this, you did a great job! :-)

Chocolate Cookies ready to eat

So I hope, you will have lot of success with these chocolate cookies. And not only for a kids party.
A cookie monster is in each of us! ;-)

See you!

:-)

serve the cheese of 'Chavignol'

2011-11-15T12:44:00.001+01:00

Coucou!

This weekend I had a little "come together" with some family members (20 people, and that's just a very small part of it, believe me ;-). But we had such a good time, once again! Good food, delicious wine, perfect weather, wonderful place, lovely company..! Thanks and big kisses to all of you guys!!!)
It was placed not far away from 'Sancerre' in the 'Centre' of France. Beautiful area and not only because of the wine! ;-)
When you taking the route D923 in the direction of 'Sancerre' you think, okay, forest, little villages, fields,... a lot of space over here. Fine.
Then you take a look to the right and there you see this tree on the field, all alone. Nothing else. And you think this will go on like this.

But suddenly the road is making a curve and there you go!
'Sancerre'.
But itself.

Sancerre

I made the photo early in the morning, that's why it is still a bit foggy.
So impressive. You have to visit it.
'Sancerre' is encircled by big fields of wine.
(Yeah, somewhere the famous white wine must grow! ;-) )
It is really nice.

wine fields of Sancerre

But if you don't mind, I will not show you 'Sancerre' downtown. This isn't my point.
There is something else I would like to present to you.

A little village called 'Chavignol'.
The place in itself has nothing special and, nevertheless, when you are in this region, you have to make a quick stop at 'Chavignol'.
It's an obligation.
Cause if you like goat cheese as much as I do, you have to make some shopping at this 'fromagerie' over there.
The 'Fromagerie Dubois Boulay'

Fromagerie Dubois Boulay

As you can see, they serve a lot of different kind of 'Crottin'. This is how this round goat cheese is called. And specially this one from 'Chavignol' is just WOW! So super lekker! Can tell ya.
For sure you can get some in a supermarket, but this isn't the same.
Don't mind, if your car will smell a bit like a goat for the next hours.
The pleasure to eat it later with a good glass of red wine besides... JUST HEAVEN!
"You are eating like a God in France" as we are saying in Germany!

Here a little suggestion how you could serve this cheese as a starter.

You need
a crottin ( I took a dry/sec one, it has a more intense taste. And when it's baked it will be a bit softer)
baguette
inserted, dried tomatoes
jam of pepper pear
salad
olive oil, nut vinegar, salt and pepper, sugar and pecans

For you to know:
This jam is a special one, which you are using more for cooking than at the breakfast. I've found it at 'Inno' a supermarket of 'Monoprix'. It is by 'Terre Exotique'. And very delicious in combination with goat cheese.
As you can see, I like this jam. It is empty again. ;-)

Jam: Terre Exotique

Okay, but now, let's cook.
It is so easy and quick to prepare. A perfect starter if you have invited some guest for a diner.
First you have to heat up the oven ( 200 Celsius).
Then cut the baguette and the cheese into little slices.
On some baguettes you first give a tomato and then a slices of cheese on top. If you want to, you can drop a bit of an good 'old' balsamic vinegar on it, but it isn't essential.
On the other ones first the cheese and then a bit of jam. The ones I prefer most. That's it.
Roast it for 5 minutes. Depends on your oven.

While the cheese is getting "hot", you prepare the salad. Mix the oil with the nut vinegar, salt and pepper. Place it on the side of the dish. Then roast the pecans with a tiny bit of sugar in a pan and give it on the salad. Now the cheese already should have started to melt. You can serve it with the salad.

Yes, don't forget a read wine.
This time I took a Bordeaux. A '2000 Chateau Yon Tour Figeac'.
It's a perfect wine in combination with a 'crottin'. And you should know, it is a must to drink a glass of a good red wine when you are eating some cheese in France (when you are over 18years old!).
I have to admit, a really tasty fusion.
A "pleasure for your palate".

Bon appétit!

:-)

day trip to the castle part II

2011-11-10T15:44:00.001+01:00

Bonjour!

Promises make not only children happy. And as I had promised to show you the other castle which I've visit with my day trip to the castle, I wanna fulfill my word. Cause you can trust me. Yeppa! :-)

Okay, here we go. The second castle I've visit is 'Chateau Cheverny'. Not far away from 'Chambord' in the region of 'Val de Loire'. It is a bit smaller and in a different style, but just beautifully in its way.

Chateau Cheverny has the most magnificent pieces of furniture in the area. Thanks to its owner who still lives in a part of the castle and takes care of it.

The library on top ( it's just a prt of it) shows more than 2000 orginal books.

Underneath a bedroom of the kids. Everything in small. So cute!

The big chest already weighs more than 90 kilo on its own! Don't wanna carry that!

Behind the castle there is a beautiful park, with wonderful flowers and old trees. It invites you to do a little promenade.Which you really should do!

Like these trees. Just impressive how big they are!

Did you know that the comic author 'Hergé' took the castle as a model for his story of 'Tintin'( Tim und Struppi).
For all the fans of 'Tintin': this is a must. You have to visit the castle. And the good thing is, there is an exhibition of 'Tintin' in one of the side buildings, too.
For all the others: 'Cheverny' is so beautiful and a bit laid-back. You could easily imagine to live there. And the people over there are very friendly too.

If you plan a journey to visit it, here the link of the castle Cheverny

That's for today! Keep smiley and see you

:-)

your nails-your diamonds

2011-11-08T15:20:00.001+01:00

Helloooo!

Since some weeks I love it, to varnish my fingernails in different colors. In the past I used, if necessary, only a clear nail polish. Nothing else. But this has changed now, definitely. I don't know if it is because of my little daughter, that I discover the enjoyment in "paint" again, cause she loves as all little girls, colorful nails. Or the fact: with varnished fingernails you feel immediately pretty.
Beautifully, elegantly stylish...sexy. :-)
And there are so many beautiful colors at the moment. Whether vintage, trendy or with glitter. Delightfully. I could apply every day another color!
But before varnishing the nails, don't forget to take care of the whole hand. Otherwise it will not look nice. Yes, I can hear you saying: it always takes so much time!
You are right. If you have an professional appointment at a nail studio, yes it takes time. And it should do so. You want to be treated like a queen or don't you?! So they have to take care. You paid for it. ;-)
But it doesn't mean that it always has to be like this. You only need a few products, 10-15minutes of your day and you gonna feel like a princess! Believe me. I'm going to show you.

This is my little care package.

A hand lotion based on olive oil by 'medipharma cosmetics'. It was a gift of my sister in law and it is a very nice one. It smells pleasantly and enters quickly into the skin.
A nail file to polish them, in the front.
On the right you see a curing oil by 'Pronails'.
On the left a nail polish in "stone" by 'Pronails'.
And in the middle the blue one, this is a polish to fix the color. It is by 'Pronails' too.
That's all. Nothing more.

First cream the whole hand. Specially at this time, autumn/winter, your hand need a lot of "love". To keep it soft and beautiful. But not too much. Less is sometimes more. Just do it more often. Then file the nails carefully.
I prefer the round form, but this is a matter of taste, isn't it?!

ring by Mont Blanc

Now you can polish the body of the nail. As it is written on the file, you start with the side 'step1' and file all nails. So easy.

After 'step3' all nails already have a nice naturally gloss.

Now some vitamins. One drop per cuticle is enough. Rub it into the skin and let it dry before you move on. Don't worry, it takes just a few minutes. And the result looks good! :-)

Pronails

If you may, now you can apply the fixer. Me, I used it very often as a finishing, too. Works fine.
But whether or not, your nails are ready for some color now! "Hiphip hurra"! :-)
This autumn I like a brown/stone color very much. It is a bit unobtrusive but smart. Nice.

If you want to, the/my finishing

Fix plus-Pronails

Et Voilà

Done in 15 minutes - prepared for the next 2-3 days, then I wanna have another color! ;-)
Like these ones here

Rouge Baiser

It is 'Fuchsia' and 'Nuit' of 'Rouge Baiser'. My favorite one so far. I bought them at 'Monoprix'.
They have a bit glitter. Very smart! :-)
Did you now, that 'Charles Revson' one of the founder of the Cosmetics group 'Revlon', has been the first one which markets nail polish successfully. To convince his customers, he varnished even his own nails. And, at that time (1932) he wasn't at all a fan of the women who bought his cosmetics!

Beautiful color, don't you think so? And such a nice accessory. You don't need any jewelry or so. Your nails are your diamonds! ;-)
One more tip: if you first polish 'Fuchsia' and at the second round 'Nuit' you are getting a wonderful purple.
If you are doing it the other way around it will be a nice aubergine. Maybe you can see it on the last shot. So cool, two nail polishes, 4 colors! Perfect!

Happy pretty me!

:-)

Pure chocolate cake

2011-11-07T11:49:00.002+01:00

Good morning!

This weekend I've organized a little 'tea-party' for my daughter. Kind of fun for the kids. Acting a bit like a grown up, drinking the tea with some rock sugar. They just loved it.
I've promised my girl to bake her favorite chocolate cake and cookies. Not a big thing. Both are simply made and just lekker. That's why I wanna show it to you. Cause I like it, if something doesn't take too much time to prepare and is easy to be made. If the result is very tasty at the end, no one cares. You are the "star". ;-)

So here comes the pure chocolate cake:

Pure chocolate cake

Looks small but if you taste it, this chocolate cake is a little dream! Believe me. Outside a bit crunchy but inside still soft and full of chocolate! Yummy!

Did you kow, chocolate contains about the cocoa interest also N-Phenylpropenoyl-L-aminosäureamid which has an effect growth-stimulating on skin cells and bends forward with it folds?! So eat every day a bit chocolate and you always will look fresh and beautiful! ;-)

Okay enough, here the recipe.
You need:

200g dark chocolate
100g butter
160g sugar
3 eggs
50g flour (2 soup spoon)
some powdered sugar

That's it. Not much as I said. Perfect. :-)
So let's start.

First you have to melt the chocolate with 2 soup spoons of water in a double boiler.

melt the Chocolate

Separate meanwhile the egg yolk from the white one and hit the protein very rigidly. The best test to see whether the protein is fixed, simply hold the pot about head. Nothing may slip!

fix the protein

The chocolate should be melted now. Add sugar, butter and the egg yolk. Mix good with the chocolate.
After that the flour

Chocolate and flour

Finally give the rigid proteins carefully, in addition. The cake mixture should be "airy".

Protein into the chocolate cake

In a round baking tin (I used a 26 diameters pan)

pure chocolate cake before

for 30-40 minutes at 180° Celsius. It depends on the oven. When you smell "chocolate" make the test.
If only a little cake mixture sticks to a toothpick, the cake is finished. Already all together after 40-50 minutes of preparation! That's nothing, isn't it. Such an easy recipe.

I hope, you are inspired to bake this pure chocolate cake once, too and that you will like it as much as I do.
And by the way, feel free to send me a comment of your experience or a photos of your chocolate cake!
You know that I'm a curious person

:-)