Download Our Summer Menu Collection

Since summer entertaining should be a breeze, this collection, designed with simplicity in mind, features 20 easy-to-follow recipes and a few menu suggestions. Download this PDF, which includes recipes for starters, main courses, side dishes, and desserts.

 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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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Local Food Producers · Provencal Recipes · Taste

The Summer Truffle Festival in Aups is a Culinary Treat – Don’t Miss Out!

June 23, 2025
Located between the Mediterranean coast and the Alps, the village of Aups sits at 505 metres (1,657 ft). Considered the capital of the Haut-Var, this mid-sized town has a population of roughly 2200 residents. However, on a busy summer weekend, Aups attracts many visitors. It is considered the “gateway” to the Verdon Regional Natural Park, …
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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Hotels Provence & Cote d'Azur · Restaurant Recommendations · Stay: Accommodation & Rentals in Provence · Taste

Where to Eat in Provence? Domaine la Pierre Blanche is a Food Lovers’ Paradise

June 18, 2025
As the sun gracefully dips behind the Alpilles, the landscape is bathed in a gentle golden glow that dances across the grapevines, offering a prelude to an enchanting evening in Provence. This region’s luminous light, which has long captured the imaginations of celebrated artists, serves as a backdrop to the “Rosé Mule,” a tantalizing cocktail …
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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Explore · Villages Towns and Cities

Provencal Villages: Céreste Reasons to Visit and Stay Awhile

June 13, 2025
Céreste is an authentic, unspoilt, and charming Provençal village. It is immersed in lavender country, steeped in history, and sits on the foothills of the Grand Luberon. While the region has many fascinating villages, we asked the owner of Mas de Grivet, a beautiful holiday rental home, what makes Céreste unique. The answers below should …
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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Expat Living and Real Estate · Inspire · What's On Provence & Cote d'Azur

Maison Victoire – Get your Copy of their New Magazine

June 11, 2025
For those who believe print media is a thing of the past, Maison Victoire’s new glossy magazine is a revelation. Launched on June 5, this exclusive offering provides comprehensive real estate data for buyers and sellers in Provence. It’s not just about real estate; it’s a celebration of local vineyards, artists, and the charming L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. …
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