A flâneur is not the maker of flans. A flâneur is French for one who observes, idles, saunters, and loafs, preferably along a Parisian boulevard. Not me. I am a doer, and I am in perpetual motion, much to the disappointment of many around me. There are advantages to this. …

These wonderful Christmas crescent cookies have ground almonds mixed into the dough. What better time of the year to enjoy baking and eating these cookies? Almonds have a long history in Provence’s agriculture and cuisine. Many Provencal dessert recipes include almonds, whole or ground into flour. Almonds are one of …

What’s not to love about gin cocktails during the festive season? Enjoy our recipe creation for the perfect “Christmas on the French Riviera” pre-dinner drink. Read the full blog post here. A spicy cocktail to add extra celebration to the holiday season! Other Cocktail Recipes:

One of the many reasons I was thrilled to discover the Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm was this cherished family holiday recipe for lavender shortbread. This multi-generational, family-run operation in British Columbia, Canada, is dedicated to making quality products. From planting to the final product – the farm operations reflect …

The Epiphany in France is an excellent opportunity to make (and eat) cake. Although not just any cake, the day is traditionally celebrated with either a Galette or a Brioche Des Rois, recognising the 12th day of Christmas, when the three Magi arrived to offer gifts to the newborn baby. …

“Les treize desserts” is an old Christmas tradition in Provence. Thirteen desserts are enjoyed after Christmas Eve dinner, traditionally representing Jesus and his twelve Apostles. Each guest must eat all thirteen desserts to guarantee good luck for the year to come. There must be a minimum of 13 desserts, but …

Never let winter end before enjoying a steaming mug of homemade hot chocolate with whipped cream! This recipe for lavender hot chocolate from the Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm combines winter with a hint of summer. Plus, this cold-weather recipe is as simple as it gets. Dedicated to making quality …

There’s something special about entertaining during the holidays, especially for those who love playing host or hostess. So whether you have brunch, lunch or dinner guests, it’s festive to break out the best china, silverware, and crystal to honour your guests and celebrate your friendship—the French refer to creating a …

Citrus and the French Table Citrus has had a place in French cuisine, in decoration, and noble gardens since at least medieval times. As both written and iconographical sources have suggested, several species of citrus were consumed, traded and maybe even cultivated in the gardens of the medieval French elite: …

We recently invited friends Lee and Barbara to dinner to celebrate Barbara’s birthday. For a friend new to our circle, it was a delight to make a special dinner as a birthday gift. And, as I have often said, the gift of food is definitely one that comes from the …