Shannon Pratuch, This French Life, Miranda Mills, Seasons of Story, The Unexpected Gypsy, Spring Design books and more on Weekend Meanderings.
Weekend Meanderings
Good Saturday morning friends. It’s time for Weekend Meanderings with Juliet and Kim. Join us as we share all of the things that piqued our interests and caught our eye this week.
I am knee deep in clothes, shoes, handbags and all of the other things one stores in their closet. The carpets are getting installed Monday morning and we are emptying 4 closets in the master bedroom. What I realize and have always known is that I have too much stuff! Before it goes back into the closet there will be some sort of purge, fingers crossed. I think I may need some help from Juliet, she seems to be an expert at this.
Aside from that the weather has been rainy and chilly the last few days, and the house, patio and the yard are covered in a thick layer of pollen worms(not a scientific name) and whirly gigs. Every time we clean it off more fall from the trees.
There is nothing on the schedule this weekend except a good book and a movie. What about you?
I have lot’s to share this weekend so let’s meander.
One to Follow~ This French Life
Shannon Pratuch is an American expat that enjoys the city and country life, with homes in Paris, as well as, in the country. She shares travel tips and tours, meaningful moments, gorgeous gardens, recipes and more on Youtube, Instagram and her website. You will fall in love with Shannon and her pups on their adventures all over France, to chateaux, gardens, on Sunday strolls and more.
You can also listen to Embracing the French Life where Shannon shares the highs and lows of expat life.
Miranda Mills
If you like books(who doesn’t), adventures, and the UK you will love Miranda Mills. I discovered Miranda in 2010, she was a British lifestyle blogger living in London.
Miranda was born in Canada, grew up in France(on the Swiss border), went to School in Switzerland and when she was 18 moved to England for University. She studied linguistics and law. While working after graduation she started a blog and as it grew she gave up her day job.
Since then she has branched out, in addition to her blog, she has a YouTube Chanel, a book club, writes a newsletter and has turned her former podcast into author interviews on her blog.
In 2020 when the world shut down Miranda and her mother moved to Yorkshire where she continues to write book reviews, literary travel adventures, recipes and country living.
You can follow her on Youtube, Instagram, on her blog Mirandas Notebook and last but not least Seasons of Story(Substack)
The Unexpected Gypsy
The algorithm has decided that I am adrift as I age because lately it has recommend lots of “aging wisdom.” I listen to or watch each recommendation, take what works for me and if I enjoy them I share them on Weekend Meanderings.
I have followed The Unexpected Gypsy for a while and enjoy her art, and her videos on Youtube, as well as, her Instagram and think you will enjoy her too.
Spring Design & Garden Books
Books are my weakness, I would rather have a new book than make-up or clothes. Over the last few months there have been so many beautiful design and garden books released. I thought I would share a few of my favorites, just in case you want to add them to your stack or wish list for Mother’s Day.
Cordelia de Castellane, true ambassador of French lifestyle, returns with a sequel to Life in a French Country House and offers her inspiring ideas and secrets for gardening, unique flower arranging, and entertaining.
Relaxed Elegance: Rooms for Living Well
The first book from interior designer Britany Bromley, whose rooms brim with a welcoming sensibility that reveal her fresh, colorful, pattern-filled take on traditional design.
Legendary hostess and style icon Aerin Lauder shares ideas for how to bring flowers into our home, entertaining and décor, inspiring both special occasions and the everyday moments with beauty and joy.
Step inside havens adorned with a gracious and welcoming atmosphere, filled with natural beauty and cultivated with a refined sensibility. Inspiration flows through stunning full-color photography alongside insights from the editorial and design team at Victoria Magazine.
The chic, soulful, livable spaces of Texas-based interior designer Marcus Mohon exert a universal appeal with their air of timeless serenity.
Embracing Beauty: Serene Spaces for Living
Inspired by her previous experience as an art dealer, Webb designs beautifully composed spaces. She believes in the power of light, and shadow, in creating atmosphere.
Enter the world of romantic, refined, and approachable living with a blend of cherished antiques, new furniture, and lush fabrics. Eric’s Southern approach to traditional decorating also spills over into his entertaining prose and lifestyle.
Shop the Books
LINKS TO READ+WATCH+LISTEN
The Top 15 US Restaurants, According to the Experts
USPS Changes to Mail Delivery Underway in April: What to Know
The Rio Grande Valley was once covered in forest. One man is trying to bring it back.
Why Did Ronald McDonald Disappear?
A rambling 15th-century house in Sussex with playful interiors by Phoebe Hollond
Your TV’s USB port is seriously underrated: 5 benefits you’re not taking advantage of
Eight of Literature’s Most Powerful Inventions—and the Neuroscience Behind How They Work
Why we can’t squash the common cold, even after 100 years of studying it
In Case You Missed It
Next up a scrumptious Carrot Banana bread that is perfect for Easter Brunch!
Did you know that Kate Spade and Target have a new collaboration? I shared all the details this week. The collection drops today.
UNTIL NEXT TIME
I hope that you enjoyed weekend meanderings. If you did please share the post on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter or Pinterest.
Have a great day and a wonderful weekend friends. If you missed any of the previous Weekend Meandering posts you can find them all here.
Don’t forget to pop over and visit Kim and Juliet!
This post contains affiliate links, if you make a purchase I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
On My Radar
SO MANY GOOD THINGS, ELIZABETH! First up…baking that carrot banana bread!
Thank you Mary Ann! I hope that you enjoy the carrot banana bread.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Hi Elizabeth,
I went to Jane Austen’s house last year and just loved it so perfect. So many wonderful things here to see thank you! Have a lovely weekend.
Francesca, tell us more about your trip! What was your favorite part of Jane Austen’s house? Where else did you visit?
Have a wonderful weekend.
Good morning, Elizabeth! As always … so many good things to enjoy today. And believe it or not I’ve set an alarm for the afternoon to sit down – just me and my laptop – and go through each video, suggested blog, IG, YouTube, etc. becuase I deserve it. I wish I could offer you tips on decluttering … I do enough of it. Seems I don’t learn anything. Ha! Have a lovely weekend … a good book and movie sound heavenly. xo
Such lovely books, your posts are always so delightful. Wishing you a very Happy Easter.
Thank you Jude! U hope that you have a lovely week and a very happy Easter.
Hi Elizabeth,
Thinking about you both as you clean out so many things out of your four closets. You may forget many things that you did not even know you had.
The rule is if you haven’t worn it in a year it’s a donation item. I don’t always feel this is the best rule to follow. Do you? It depends on what it is. Also we are all dealing with climate change.
Hang in there, that never says much.
Hello Katherine,
Here are the amounts for the cream cheese frosting. It makes more than you need if you only like a thin layer of frosting.
Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting
8 oz. cream cheese, softened, room temperature
3 tablespoons butter, softened
31/2 cups powdered sugar sifted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
Using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter on medium speed until light and fluffy. Then add the powdered sugar, a little at a time and beat until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.
If you want to decorate the loaves with a carrot design, place 1/4 cup of frosting into two small bowls and using your food coloring mix some orange and green frosting.
I will watch for your email! Thank you!
As for the closet, as I cleaned it this morning I did find many things I forgot I had. Truth be told, I’ve not been in there very much over the last 6 month. I am not sure I should follow the rules because I will have nothing left tot wear.
Have a wonderful weekend friend.
I have a very small closet in my bedroom—maybe three feet. I have had to purge relentlessly. And the thing is, I don’t miss those clothes. I realized I didn’t need so many items of clothing. You’ll feel better once it’s accomplished! And then you can get out in the garden!
Brenda, I could not agree with you more. It’s almost as if you have the space so you feel the need to fill it up. I cannot imaging purging to a 3 x 3 ft closet, you are amazing!
I hope that you have a wonderful week! Enjoy your sweet kitties.
Elizabeth, thank you so very much for the recipe for the Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting. With all you have going with clearing out the four closets you took the time to send this.
Are you “Wonder Woman?” Yes, I think so. I used to be when I was younger. I’ve lost that status.
In appreciation.
Katherine, you are very welcome! I hope that you enjoy the cake when you make it.
The closets are empty but truth be told I was not very good about purging, sorting, etc. I will work on that when I put everything back.
Have a lovely week.
Elizabeth I hope your climate cleanout will go well! It’s a lot of work I know, but worth it! I can’t wait to watch these videos. Haven’t heard of any of these gals.
Your bread looks like something I have to try. Max is not eating sugar, so I have to try and give it away or I’ll eat it all myself. It loos so delicious!
Hope you had a good weekend!! x Kin
Kim,
I think I will just take it slow and if it takes a little while that is life. It will definitely be worth it. Both you and Juliet are so good at editing your closets, I am not.
Shannon and Miranda are both fabulous! If you love France, the UK, books, adventures and interesting women you will enjoy them both.
The carrot banana bread is scrumptious! I always take the photos, share one piece with my husband and give the rest to my neighbors, friends and brother-in-law. Otherwise I will eat it a little at a time.
I hope that you have a fabulous week Kim!
xo
Thank you very much for mentioning me and my work! I am thrilled you have recommended my content and appreciate the opportunity to connect with you and your lovely community. Merci beaucoup!
With love from Paris,
Shannon Pratuch
This French Life
Shannon, you are very welcome. I love watching your tours on instagram and enjoy seeing one of my favorite city through your eyes.
I hope that some of my blog friends came over and joined your following.
Have a wonderful week and a beautiful Spring.
Elizabeth