The Zimbler's Family Travel Blog- Better than a Post Card!
 

We learned something very enlightening about the French the other night while dining with blogger, Corey Amaro, at the loveliest of old bistros in Paris, Jospehine Chez Dumonet, on Wednesday evening.

Some of you may have heard me talk about Corey's blog, Tongue In Cheek (see link under Blog Amour page on this site) which she began writing 8 years ago on a whim (and a bet from friend), and today, has over 5,000 readers every day.

Corey, an American & California native, married her "French husband" 25 years ago and has lived in Provence ever since. Her blog combines rich poetic descriptions of her life in France along with her love for searching the brocantes (French antique/flea markets) for treasures which she offers for sale through her site.

I was immediately drawn to her powerful and often personal insights on life to her readers, and reached out to her. I'm so thankful I did.

Corey explained to us that when the French dine, they consider this a "moment", a special time for friends and family to gather, share a good meal and conversation. That's one reason service in France may seem slow. It has nothing to do with inattentive or rude service, it's that the French simply don't want you to feel rushed and respect your time dining as if it were an event, a celebration of life if you will. And it sort of should be this way, if you think about it.

We Americans often eat alone or rush through our meals to get onto something more important. Here, a meal is a time to cherish those you are with,unplug, appreciate the fine food set before you, the wine poured in your glass and the efforts of the Chefs and waiters serving you. In the traditional bistros and fine dining establishments, great pride is taken by these true professionals who often have an investment in the restaurant, but also understand the importance of creating a special meal, an experience, a moment for their customers that fosters goodwill and a loyal clientele.

Our evening with Corey was more than a moment, it was one of those rare life events we will remember fondly forever. Corey is both an amazing writer and an engaging storyteller. The girls hung on her every word, her facial expressions warm and animated, and listened intently to her stories. Afterwards, they both agreed, "She was really cool!"

We look forward to possibly seeing Corey again in Provence.

Here are a few photos reflecting on the past few days and the many incredible "moments" we've shared as a family. I hope you enjoy them, too!

Picture
Opera House in Paris- I can picture the grandest of dinner parties here.
Picture
Ceiling in the Opera house
Picture
Inspired by the ballet inspired art collection in the Opera House
Picture
Day trip to Versailles
Picture
A bed fit for a King!
Picture
The Claude Monet gardens at Giverney
Picture
Imagine this as a wedding aisle...
Picture
Claude's kitchen. I love the bright cheery colors he used throughout the home.
Picture
The church where Monet was married and was laid to rest.
Picture
For Claudette who appreciates my fascination with cemeteries.
Picture
Dinner with Corey Amaro
Picture
David is writing a separate post on the meals we've enjoyed this week. He is certainly loving all this French food!
Picture
The girls were very impressed with Corey's knowledge of the boy band, "One Direction"! This made for quite a discussion between them.
Picture
Can you guess this specialty of the house?
Picture
Soufflé is a must here! The best we've EVER had!
Picture
Another table celebrating a birthday in France
Jo Dermid
7/26/2013 08:56:37 am

Best blog to date . Loving them all.

Reply
Ilene Diamond
7/26/2013 11:26:12 am

Wonderful to be reading your blog and reliving some of the
beautiful time we had in Paris. Highlight of our trip was a trip to
Giverney. Magical place and an emotional experience to sit by the pond he painted. Can't wait to read more.... Bon Apetit!

Reply
7/26/2013 02:42:54 pm

Thank you! The feeling was mutual. I too hope we can meet in Provence. Love all your photos.

Reply
7/29/2013 02:05:30 pm

Great photos at Monets garden. He was a favorite of Judes the pics from the cathedral were fantastic. Your visit with Corey exciting.i feel I am right there with you. Saw surgeon today and all is well. Go to radiation oncologist Fri. You seem to be enjoying every minute of your trip- how exciting! What a great time for all of you! Claudette

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    Author

    Bon Jour! I am Lisa Zimbler- please follow me, my  daughters, Emily and Sophia, and my hubby David on our vacation this summer as we meander our way from London south through France, chronicling our experiences along the way!

    Archives

    July 2013

    Categories

    All