Antibes

Things have been rather slow here lately, but that's about to change. Yesterday was the 1st on my list of last adventures in Europe before arriving back at the JAN International Airport on March 4th (two days earlier than planned, not that I'm complaining). 

I've been mapping out my last weekends and on Saturday I took the tgv two and half hours down the coast to a city nestled between Cannes and Nice known as Antibes. 

It was a pretty big city with even bigger and better views of the sea, which I can't seem to get enough of. The weather warmed up a bit and the sun made a rare appearance making for a beautiful day. 

The city center was full of short, winding alleyways and my beloved cobblestone streets. It's also the first place I've ever been to where you can see people lying on the beach to the left and snow covered mountain tops to the right. 

Antibes is home to the Picasso Museum and since I'm never opposed to a bit of cultural enrichment and art appreciation, I spent about an hour looking at some of his collection from the time he spent living there. The rooftop terrace of his former home and studio also gave the best view of the old city and the Mediterranean. 

I don't think I'll have time to make another trip to the sea, but it was a lovely and leisurely day! The next few weekends I'll be on the go and I'm truly looking forward to it. For me, it's Strasbourg, Rome, and London...the perfect conclusion to this season in my life.  

But back to Antibes...

Meanwhile...

Today marks 2 full weeks that I've been back in France and I've won my battle against the flu. After years of escaping the plague, I learned the hard way that Campbell's chicken noodle, original lemon-lime gatorade, saltine crackers, and nurse mom cannot be found in the closest monoprix? A tough realization that was! 

It has actually been nice to simply relax with no plans and enjoy the city I've called for home for almost 5 months. 

In the meantime...

Tulips are one of my favorite flowers and were the perfect pick-me-up after being stuck inside my apartment for far too long. 

They're just so happy! 

One of my favorite restaurants is this charming place called Bistro Romaine on the Cours Mirabeau. They also serve this little delight...the crunchy sundae, which was discovered the week my parents spent with me in Aix. I waited on them Thursday night to conclude my work week, but it started melting so...

I didn't have to work this Friday so to kick off my 3 day weekend I spent some time at one my favorite hangouts just off the beaten path here in Aix. With the cold and rainy weather we've been having, I couldn't think up a cozier place than Book in Bar.

Saturday is market day for me when I'm not traveling elsewhere. I donned my wellies and knee length puffer coat and braved the unusually yucky weather...I can't resist the flower market. 

I'm not sure what journeys are ahead, but I'm working on it. I leave Aix on February 27th and will spend my last days in London before my final au revoir. 

I'm left with just enough time and budget for one more long weekend trip.

- Florence? Barcelona? Prague? Edinburgh?- 

You'll be the first to know.

Meanwhile, Bon week-end! 

Home for Christmas

It's a bit mind boggling that I'm back in Aix, my home away from home, and only have about 2 months left in this beautiful city. 

About a month ago, I decided to make the long trip home to spend my two weeks of Christmas vacation with my family. It flew by and in no time I was waving goodbye from the security line again. 

Christmas is my favorite time of year. They don't call it 'The most wonderful time of the year' for no reason. 

I love being at home, baking sweets and eating the neighbors candies, and wanting to deck the halls my brother for waking me up too early. I love curling up on the couch with the Christmas tree lit up and the fire place going as the smell of Christmas eve dinner fills the house. 

It was an extra special Christmas this year simply because I'd planned in my mind I would miss it and stay in France. I sure am glad I changed my mind! 

Here's a peak at my holly jolly Christmas! 

Eat Mor Chikin

Sunday night pizza night.

Liberty Bowl in Memphis 

#hailstate 

Liv's new job at the Blues City Cafe.

"Can I see your id, please?"

I hope your Christmas was just as special and memorable. 

Wising you a happy and blessed New Year!