Download Our Spring Menu Collection

This seasonal collection features 19 recipes, including starters, main courses, side dishes, and desserts. Featuring seasonal ingredients such as artichokes, asparagus, lamb, and strawberries. Download this PDF, which includes for recipes for entertaining at this time of the year.

 J. Christina

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J. Christina is the author and hobbyist photographer behind Scribbles and Smiles, writing a personal travel blog from the Midwest. Christina (Christie) is married to John, a.k.a. Mr. Christie. Where Mr. Christie is right on-board with their travel jaunts around the world; sharing in their blogging endeavors. He supports, encourages, handles gadgetry and embraces the role of the in-house editor - hence, their bespoke pen name, J. Christina.

J. Christina's blogging journey began before the word blog was trending, writing about European travel destinations on share-sites, forums and online journals. After many years of intrepid travel, they thoughtfully opened their treasure-trove of European travelogues, artfully sharing with a worldwide audience. Intentionally sharing the joie de vivre through their words and images, so others can travel vicariously. J. Christina believes smiling with your eyes is a beautiful thing.

You can read their most recent dispatches from aboard an elegant European river ship, sharing the allure of Europe’s great rivers and their capital cities. Or, follow them through serendipitous discoveries in the Cote d’Azur, where J. Christina captures the essence of a perched medieval village.

J. Christina's work has been featured on France Today, Bonjour Paris and The Good Life France.

Enjoy the Scribbles and Smiles stories

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Inspire · Keith Van Sickle · What's On Provence & Cote d'Azur

Picasso, Kahlo, and The Little Prince at the Carrières des Lumières in Les Baux

April 17, 2026
The Carrières des Lumières (Quarry of Light) is one of the most remarkable venues in France. Described as “a magical sound and light show inside a mountain,” it’s a must-see for any visitor to Provence. This immersive show takes place in the Alpilles, at Les Baux-de-Provence, inside an old stone quarry, where art images are …
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Apartments in Provence · Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Stay: Accommodation & Rentals in Provence

A Charming Getaway: Short Holiday Stays in Villefranche-sur-Mer this Summer

April 15, 2026
Villefranche-sur-Mer, a seaside town on the French Riviera, is an ideal short summer escape. With breathtaking views, a mild climate, and proximity to Nice, it promises a picturesque retreat for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Experience the coastal charm of this French Riviera destination, perfect for anyone seeking a quick, memorable getaway. Even a …
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Books on Provence · Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire

Enjoy St-Rémy-de-Provence with Keith Van Sickle’s Insider Tips

April 13, 2026
Each year, Keith Van Sickle and his wife, Val, immerse themselves in Provence for several months, embracing the local language and culture. They focus on learning French to deepen their appreciation and strengthen connections with locals, while exploring the region’s culture, history, gastronomy, and traditions. Keith has authored several books, including the latest edition of …
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Expat Living and Real Estate · Lieke Lobregt · Living in Provence · Stay: Accommodation & Rentals in Provence

Interested in Buying a Home in France? Here is An Explainer Guide for Foreigners

April 10, 2026
Are you wondering how to buy a home in France as a foreigner? Buying your own home in France, specifically in Provence, might be a long-awaited dream finally coming to life. You can already see yourself living that Provencal dream. However, real estate transactions in France are complex and include multiple steps. This article explains …
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Artists Inspired by Provence · Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire

Heavenly Silk Exhibition Breathes New Life into Historic Setting at Eygalières

April 6, 2026
In the heart of Eygalières in the Alpilles, the storied 12th-century church becomes a stage for Joanna Staniszkis’ mesmerizing exhibition, “Soie Tombee du Ciel/Heavenly Silk.” Here, the legacy of Provence’s silk artisans and the bravery of Jean Moulin are celebrated in a tapestry of art and history. Inspired by Heavenly Silk With a deep reverence …
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