Thursday, February 25, 2010

The Next Step


 I have a tendency to only see
what’s right in front of me
250px-Palais_Royal_Paris_Mai_2006_001

Carefully making my way through the day

worldisround_com 
But I’m learning to look around

DSC01828
To appreciate every curve

- Incense Provence
 Color

Taste (sorry I promised no more macarons)

Flowers


Sweet smells

Art

Rainydays...to be more precise
playing in this fountain would be fun

DSC01413

In spite of all the craziness in the world
I’m learning to enjoy things around me
and look forward to the next step.




Put a Little Ooh La La in Your Life! 

76 comments:

Duchess of Tea said...

Mimi darling my daughter gave me a book seven years ago, and since then I have been reading it every year. It is called the Simple Abundance and it is written by Sarah Ban Breathnach, in this book there is an entire discussion about this same subject. Since reading this book, things that had a way to not be noticed by me are no more, I see, appreciate and treasure everything I see everyday. The book starts 1st of January and ends the 31st of December. Each day there is a small paragraph to read, it is fascinating, it has changed my life so completely. It's an easy read and packed with daily challenges, ways to deal with them, meaningful quotes and references. Come to think of it, I might do a post on this book soon and if you don't mind I will link it back to this post. Now I am off to read my today's paragraph.

Love & Hugs
Duchess

LPC said...

Sometimes just paying attention is more than half of what it takes to live a happy life.

Jeanne Henriques said...

Mimi
What a lovely post and so true. I had to laugh when I read Duchess's post. I have the same book and haven't looked at it in some time. I pulled it out last night to have a look. I am in a similar frame of mind. I think you captured the essence of that feeling in this post. When you stop and look at the little things and appreciate them for what they are....it can make all the difference in the day. Hope you have a great day and thanks for your comments on my post. I love honey!
Jeanne:)

Fabulous Finds Gal said...

Oh yes, this really reminds me to look around and really see what is in front of me. There truly is beauty ALL around us.

xo,
Christina

Annesphamily said...

Life is good isn't it?

The Daily Connoisseur said...

And you are so lucky that what's right in front of you is so beautiful! xo

*Chic Provence* said...

Mimi this is a wonderful reminder that all we really have is the very moment we are experiencing..don't miss a thing! a thought-provoking post

thanks and thanks for visiting my blog and commenting, you are a dear!

xxx

Kit

desde my ventana said...

I agree completely, they are all this small things those that do the happiness of every day.
Finally on Friday...enjoy
Hugs,
Cecilia

Stephanie said...

What a lovely thought. you are surrounded by inspiration like this and I feel so lucky that you share it on your blog. It's like a daily report from the best city in the world!

bikim said...

WOW! LOVE THE COLOURS!
GREAT POST!
TAKE CARE,
ROSA

Pratishtha Durga said...

What a beautiful thought! So often we take simple things for granted. And yet, things you have mentioned, flowers, food, aromas, rain... they make life beautiful, worth living.


The fountain does look very tempting, btw.

Eve said...

Dear Mimi,
what a wonderful post. You are so right ! We need to concentrate on the little things around us and we will recognize the beauty of life !

I am learning that myself day for day and also a little bit because of blogging.
Thank you for reminding me of being grateful and have a very wonderful thursday my friend !

Eve

Irene b said...

dear Mimi,I love this post.
So true!
I think that it is one of the best "ooh lala" I've ever heard from you! thank you girl!

Anonymous said...

Surprisingly ( or not) exactly this topic was discussion theme last night between my Love and me and we nodded simulatneously when stating that the daily small things, views, smiles and surprises are what makes life valuable. The ability to SEE the little wonders, which are around us, just now. I do have the book myself which the duchess quotes in the first comment, given to me by a good friend years ago. This book reinforced me on a way to appreciate all beauty around me, and do this every day. USE my precious things every day. Say "I love you" to those I love every day. Small things. Thank you for your lovely post - and the more for the pictures of Paris. I should grab my weekender and have a trip right now.. or perhaps a bit later in "real" Spring. I really should.... kindest regards, Martina

Hausfrau said...

How wonderful!

Haute World said...

Beautiful post! I think many forget to enjoy their surroundings and live in the moment. It's so easy to take regular things for granted. Oh, and no apologies for posting macarons... I believe they are essential to our daily lives ;-)

Magdalena said...

Bonjour Mimi,
What a nice post. I really do try and savor the moment, but in the busyness of life it isn't always easy. Thank you for reminding us to stop and smell the roses.
I adore all of your images and have been dreaming of those C. Louboutin shoes, they are divine.
xoxo

Jacqueline @ HOME said...

Another thing that they always say is ' look up '. There are so many wonderful things to see that are above eye level ! Your images are so beautiful and make me want to jump on Eurostar !
I hope that you read my comment on your last post as I'm not going to eat or drink until you say that I am forgiven !!!! XXXX

Fabulously French said...

Mimi what a reminder for us all. A couple of years ago I met an English lady who has lived here in SW France for the best part of 20 years. She told me exactly that, do not take any of it forgranted as it will not be special anymore.

I am sure that France has stolen a chunk of your heart just as it has mine.

Leeann x

flwrjane said...

Oh My, those are some sights. My day may not hold all that, but as I walk out of the house now I'll be aware and look for beauty everywhere!

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Each step is so precious and steps either go up or down, so whether you want to go up to new heights or go down for a repeat of the lovelies along your journey, either choice is pleasant!

Beautiful images ma belle, even the macaroons...who could tire of them?

manon 21 said...

La galerie du palais royal un bien bel endroit.

Amicalement,


Manon

Jenny said...

Why no more macarons? and thank you too for the shot of the Palais. I am thankful for your thoughtful perspective, and your encouragement. And then you also give to us the Paris outside your door and it is such a rich gift.

Stephanie said...

What great things in life to appreciate!

Kisses,
Stephanie

BonjourRomance said...

Duchess, Jeanne and Martina,

I've never heard of this book, I'll definitely have to look for it. I'm forever jotting down all my "little tidbits" in hand made notebooks for friends and family.

Merci beacoup to everyone who takes their precious time to come by and not only read my ramblings but to leave such sweet notes - each one means so much to me.

Anne in Oxfordshire said...

Hello BonjourRomance... I have that book, well not mine, my brother was given it, ended up with me somehow.

I will try and be more positive about my surroundings.. it will be an effort :-)

Kori said...

This is something I need to strive to do. I love that pic of the bookstore! Hope you are doing well honey. I've been missing a bit lately and hope to get back on track soon. Kori xoxo

Queen "B" said...

Aloha,
this was excellent, I really enjoyed the post as I always do, lovely
sending warm Hawaii sunshine
Brandi

Fifi Flowers said...

Ooooh FAB items!!! Keep showing the macarons... love it!

à la parisienne said...

I imagine that your camera is FULL of beautiful images of Paris!!! You are right, if we pay attention to the details around us, we will notice more beauty in our lives.

I hope you are doing well today!
Mandy

Chronicles of Dolliedaydream said...

Mimi my dear what a beautiful post! Just reading through the comments and must check out The Duchesse's recommended book. I need to remind myself to SLOW down all the time and I never tire of macaron pictures so please keep them coming!

VM Creation Atelier said...

Dear,dear Mimi!-)*

This is SO relax and enchanted,you new post...I like you thoughts about daily life and absolutely agree with you,my dear friend!

You life brings you more and more happy minutes by if do you want to see it...all around you!!!

Many love and hugs,

***Violetta***

Vær våken said...

Oh..that's so important! Feel the same way!! I've been thinking lately is it so that for every year that passes I feel that my ability to appreciate things around me gets bigger! It sure feels that way! Great post! Wishing you a great weekend!

French Kissed said...

Beautiful post, Mimi. I love following your steps. I will email you soon re a tea time in Paris. What fun it will be!

~jermaine~

Champagne Macarons said...

Bonjour Mimi, a wonderful post! Sometimes we need reminders to observe the beauty that surrounds us. Just this evening, my husband and I were talking about Paris and I introduced him to Castles, Crowns and Cottages blog.. her most recent post to be specific ~ the Dutch art and photos of the Netherlands. We talked about how beautiful the world is and how we appreciate so much that surrounds us. When I had more time ;) I kept a Grateful Journal, to write one thing each day that I was grateful for. I need to start writing again, it's important to not lose sight of that. Thank you for the reminder!
Have a beautiful weekend!
xoxo, B

Unknown said...

So lovely and true!! Beautiful pics! Happy weekend :-)

Catherine said...

I went to Paris last saturday, it was so busy and crowded , that i apreciated my quiet and simple life when i came home! This world is going too fast for me , or i'm getting old? Catherine

Madelief said...

Dear Mimi,

What a beautiful post! Your are right. It is important to see the small things around you, to enjoy them, cherish them and remember them. It makes our lives so much more worth while!!

Lieve groet, Madelief

Chicago Chic said...

This post was such a wonderful reminder to me, that I need to always keep in mind. I want to never take for granted the beautiful details, great and small, no matter where I am. Thank you for this inspiration today, and sending my Roman sunshine straight to you in beautiful Paris! :)

Have a wonderful weekend. ♥
xxxx
Rachel

Rose ~Victorian Rose ~ said...

That is the number one thing I try to remember to do EACH day...is THANK GOD for my precious eyesight.. taken way too much for granted most my life.
As a photographer, I "see" a lot of things most people do not consider worthy of a second glance.....and you have pointed out that very issue here...
We truly need to look at things not only for their beauty..but how very interesting things around us are...especially from a different angle.
I am a "people watcher"..and especially love to watch their faces when they are talking to someone directly ( not on a cellphone)

Was sent over here from another blog...Jacqueline~ Home~....and WOW..so many new bloggers that I have never seen before. But have not been blogging all that long..so I have a LOT of LOOKING to do yet I see.

Would love to have any one of you come over to my blog when you have time..and take a look. (Just reached my 100th follower mark.)
Have posted a copy of a painting there that "caught my eye".

Rose
http://delightfulclutter.blogspot.com/

Laura in Paris said...

great to learn to enjoy life through our senses! you shots are great!

Unknown said...

Mimi, thi is the richest, most wonderful way to live your life! Amazing post. didi you know that fereico Fellini said: "Try to live your life spherically..." meaning exactly what you said in your post. :-)Wishing you beautiful weekend. Please, do not forget to participate in my spectacular Giveaway!!! :-)

De Ruijsbroekjes said...

perfect! just take one step at a time ;-) thanx for sharing !

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

The first picture is sublime! The second is also very adorable. Lovely post. Makes me want to follow this path.... Have a splendid weekend, Mimi!
Saskia
xo

Jackie said...

Hello and what a beautiful post. I just love all the photos.....How envious I am of you to be living in paris...and from tampa bay...hmmm maybe it could happen for me, lol.

Anyway thank you for stopping by and commenting on my new header, I took that at the thrift store while waiting for my sweetie last weekend. I SO wanted it, but too much $. have a wonderful weekend!

Mélanie A. said...

Mimi, I'm happy to read you don't loose a thing ...Experience !!!

Obee Designs said...

Hi Mimi,
Just stopping by finally to say hello! Oh what a crazy week. It's all good crazy, but crazy nevertheless. So your post to pick your nose up from the grind to appreciate all the beauty that surrounds us is so timely.
Thanks so much for your wonderfully sweet comments and support are so appreciated. You are the kindest soul. As I always say, it is no wonder you have so many followers and receive so many awards. You are the best!
I hope you are enjoying smelling the roses and your weekend!!
XoXo
Gail

myletterstoemily said...

thank you for helping us really look at
the beauty around us!

Fleurette said...

Bonsoir chére Mimi, Your photos are very beautiful!!!
I wish you a wonderful evening and very nice Sunday!!!
Bisous Fleurette

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Oh Mimi!
How I love your city, and especially in black and white, showing the old days and ideals that we connect with Paris. But I know for you, it holds a special place in your heart and I am so glad to know you and your kindness! Yes, I love Audrey's style, and I could work that hat any day of the week!!!

Happy Sunday dear one!

Donatella said...

very true!!what beautiful and colorful pictures!!thank you for a lovly post.

Winchester Manor said...

Dang girl...my finger is tired from scrolling down all these comments! lol

What a lovely post and so true that we need to stop, slow down and take a look at the bounty of beauty all around us. Life is the little things, the tinest of details.

I stopped extra long to look at those amazing shoes you featured...I need those!!

Thank you sweet friend for being such a loyal and kind blog buddy, I truly adore your kind heart and sweet spirit.

Hope you're enjoying your weekend!

Big hugs,
Karyn

All things nice... said...

What a lovely post, love the photographs, Paris is wonderful, I love all the book shops in Paris if only I could read French :) Thanks for sharing

All things nice...

savvycityfarmer said...

... yes, yes, and yes ... need more of this dose of lovely
... now YOU'RE inspiring moi ...


I love it when you visit cf!!

English Rose ♥ said...

This was such a wonderful and inspiring post - i loved it!

Stay safe and chic ma chérie,
English Rose x
http://iamanenglishrose.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

Chère Mimi,
Merci de vos charmants commentaires et merci de suivre mes blogs.
Have a nice coming week. See you around.

Jenny said...

Yes! Mimi I would love your madeleines recipe! my email is jkneumann at gmail dot com Thank you!!!

Unknown said...

Your post is breathtaking! I'm inspired by my next step adventures everyday. Never stop taking that next step you never know where it's gonna take you!
Muah
Ebony

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Bonjour Mimi!
You have such lovely surroundings to appreciate. Your post is a reminder that we all need to slow day and start taking in the beauty that surrounds us.
I've been guilty of never stopping to "smell the roses," so I think I'll start to slow down a little.

hugs
Sissie

debra@dustjacket said...

This is something we all have to remind ourselves of....thank you for posting this my sweet.
xoxo

Anonymous said...

Wonderful post! Beautiful blog! I saw your comment on Anne's blog (Phamily Blog) and hope you are still interested in participating in the postcard exchange!
Stop by my blog and link in!

http://fairfieldhousenj.com/2010/02/24/youve-got-mail/

Deborah
NJ, USA

Unknown said...

Ahhhhh, my dose of French life...had to stop by to get some!!!

Hope you had a great weekend ~

:) T

Lancerika said...

Thousand bits of LoveLiness
all around us if..
we look a little closer..
such a sweet post
thank you♣

Annesphamily said...

I hope you do the postcard exchange. It will be fun! You will be the first international postcard blogger that I am aware of! Have a great week and please join us.

FEDERICA said...

Pretty photos!
Federica
xoxo

Janean said...

adore the photo choices and idea of looking forward to each step taken with "fresh eyes - opened eyes!"

those heels......ooooooooooooooh!

BonBon Rose Girls Kristin said...

Getting in touch with your senses is such a beautiful thing. Gorgeous post!

Auntie Cake said...

Congrats on your big win from Karyn!
I know you will love everything she sends. Have a great week, it's off to a lovely start!
Kate

Unknown said...

when you're in a city as pretty as Paris, you need to look around!!
and you should certainly post more macarons...they are so pretty. :-)
xoxo alison

Lee said...

Hello Mimi,

I love this post...it is true and I do believe God is in the details.

My husband notices the details to the point of mild irritation...
or some of them...I was talking to him yesterday about a very serious situation, my back was to the window ... he was facing the window...in the middle of this VERY serious conversation he reaches for my camera behind me and starts taking pictures of a woodpecker eating out of the dogfood bowls out side. AUUUGH!

Oh well, he is so easy going, we balance each other out. Gotta love him. Quirks and all.
Take care and have a great week.
Lee
I am green about your tea party in Paris! So remember me and take a sip for those unable to go...I have several social events to get ready for over the next two months...people want to have little parties here at Shiloh in the spring.

Daisy Reyes said...

Your Majesty,

I just could not go too much longer without my Mimi:)) This new article just makes me long for Paris!!! Just reach in and grab me so I can be there with you looking at all of the splendor!! you are so right. so many times we are in a rush rush and don't take the time just to drink in the view and the beauty that life has to offer. I miss you so much! Take care, Queenie:))

Royal wishes,
Daisy
LaPetitPlume.blogspot.com

Dumbwit Tellher said...

Some serious "oh la la" is truly what it's all about isn't it? Happy new week to you Mimi xx

Unknown said...

Dear Mimi, I stopped by to wish you wonderful week filled with brilliant inspirations, joy and Spring sun bunnies :-)

A Refocused Life said...

Mimi,
Absolutely adored this post. It's such a wonderful reminder of 'stopping to smell the roses' kinda thing...finding the joy and blessings in each day and every little thing. Rita

Marina Saclley @ Iced VoVo's said...

Well, it definitely is all in the detail ... isn't that how the saying goes?

Sorry I haven't visited for a while Mimi ... It was fun catching up with all your posts.

xx

Hetty Summers said...

Simplement Magnifiquem love the macaroons.

Hetty