You'll never be *just* ‘Jane with a business in Paris.’ (although that is kinda already a big deal, I can see why *more* than that is important) You have so much to share with the world and I am so grateful your writing journey has allowed you to see that! The 'petal theory" is such an interesting way of looking at this/ life. It's good to have lots of petals, but the last couple of years has made me consider which of those petals serves me in my life though - I'm still complex and layered, just a little refined these days ;)
I LOVE the idea of plucking out petals that don't serve us. When they get wilted, it's time to let them go. This whole new side of me is fun to explore - whether or not I have anything to share, I'm just so grateful to have you follow along. I'd trade communicating with you via newsletter for a big glass of wine in person! =)
Thank you for taking time to read dear Debora! It means the world to me 🥰. It’s funny how Substack has turned into my little safe space - and I’m so glad to have you in it!
Happy book anniversary, Jane! I read “The French Ingredient” last year, and it was the first book in ages that I truly couldn’t put down! (I especially loved the image of you as Jo on a motorcycle, “ready to take on the world!”)
This latest Prompt couldn’t have come at a better time. I’m diving headfirst into writing my own memoir about the life lessons I learned while living in Paris 20 years ago. And honestly, “The French Ingredient” was a huge inspiration for me.
Thank you for sharing that beautiful petal of yourself with the world—with me. We’re all better for it! ❤️
Thank you Laura! It's hard to believe that one year has passed by already. In the life of a book, that feels like ages.
I am SO thrilled to hear that you are writing a memoir! Try to enjoy the journey—it's a magical ride. Keep me updated on how things are going and best of luck on this exciting endeavor.
I love that my book helped to spur you on...remember that books are mirrors =)
Jane, you’re very kind to have sent this encouraging reply—in April! I am just now seeing it for some reason (user error on my part, bien sûr!).
My memoir manuscript is coming along. I love your words that it is a “magical ride.” Yes! The process has been incredibly life-giving. I heard a musician/artist say this on a recent podcast re: songwriting: “You’ve got to fall in love with the journey. I mean, fall deeply in love with it. Because you only get to create it once.” I love that.
And I also love that this month’s Prompt from Paris is about reflection! Taking the time for regular reflection has been so key in my personal growth. And how magical that you included literal reflections of Paris in your post. It makes the practice all the more inspiring! 🇫🇷❤️
Don’t even think twice, Laura! I am still figuring this out—missing half the messages and thinking I replied to the other half! And, of course, I am still trying to make sure I am up to date on all the other apps. I could make this a full-time job! I am so excited to hear about your memoir—keep me posted on the progress, and bon courage!
Congratulations on your book and on your musing about the craft of writing which is HARD! As a retired high school English and writing teacher, I used to tell my students this story. When being interviewed about his novel FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS, Ernest Hemingway was asked why he wrote (and rewrote) the last few sentences over and over. His response? “To get the words right.” Enough said….
My gosh, Susan! Thank you for sharing. I have a full head of hair, and sometimes I wonder how I have any left thanks to writing. But I do enjoy it, and I am going to keep trying. For many reasons, it's been good for me, as imperfect as it is. So happy to have you here on this little journey!
Loved "The French Ingredient" and congratulations on its' publication anniversary! I remember reading that La Cuisine Paris was offering food tours and how excited I was to do the wonderful Chocolate and Pastry tour last year. This year it will be a cooking class, all inspired by you, your book and the lovely La Cuisine Paris!
Congratulations, Jane, on celebrating the anniversary of your book!! I remember how much I enjoyed reading initially, and I often pick up a chapter or read the astuces and feel equally delighted with each visit. Thank you for your memoir, sharing your experiences and how writing can be a savior - this I am appreciative of you encouraging - with your prompts, journaling, and this, I am finding how helpful and beneficial it can be. While I am still working on the practice, whatever scribbled on the page (some days penmanship is questionable) is a way to sort out ideas, writing down a witty quote to remember (hopefully) or simply release some of the anxiety that seems to be perpetually swirling these days, whatever the reason, grabbing my (current) favorite pen or pencil and letting the words bloom on the page is a great way to start the day or simply, pause to pen the words. I am grateful for your writing continuing here — your stories, introductions to others, are creating inspiring bouquets of joy, wisdom, insights - thank you! I also love the quotes you share too - like sprinkles on a cupcake, a little something special. Bravo and congratulations on your book - cheers! Thank you for continuing to share your writing. Looking forward to future prompts!
Hi Jane…you are so insightful and generous with your thoughts and reflections. I hope I get to meet YOU when I attend the market/cooking class on May 24! On verra bien! Oh, forgot to mention your photography is lovely! Anyway, merçi bien…
Congrats, Jane! As a writer myself, I find it so much easier to write about other things than myself, so chapeau for putting your memoir out in the world.
You'll never be *just* ‘Jane with a business in Paris.’ (although that is kinda already a big deal, I can see why *more* than that is important) You have so much to share with the world and I am so grateful your writing journey has allowed you to see that! The 'petal theory" is such an interesting way of looking at this/ life. It's good to have lots of petals, but the last couple of years has made me consider which of those petals serves me in my life though - I'm still complex and layered, just a little refined these days ;)
I LOVE the idea of plucking out petals that don't serve us. When they get wilted, it's time to let them go. This whole new side of me is fun to explore - whether or not I have anything to share, I'm just so grateful to have you follow along. I'd trade communicating with you via newsletter for a big glass of wine in person! =)
Thank you for sharing this beautiful article and for your honesty. Loved reading it.
Thank you for taking time to read dear Debora! It means the world to me 🥰. It’s funny how Substack has turned into my little safe space - and I’m so glad to have you in it!
Very welcome, also will definitely buy your book as I am all about food, cooking, Paris💕😊
Can’t wait to read it
Happy book anniversary, Jane! I read “The French Ingredient” last year, and it was the first book in ages that I truly couldn’t put down! (I especially loved the image of you as Jo on a motorcycle, “ready to take on the world!”)
This latest Prompt couldn’t have come at a better time. I’m diving headfirst into writing my own memoir about the life lessons I learned while living in Paris 20 years ago. And honestly, “The French Ingredient” was a huge inspiration for me.
Thank you for sharing that beautiful petal of yourself with the world—with me. We’re all better for it! ❤️
Thank you Laura! It's hard to believe that one year has passed by already. In the life of a book, that feels like ages.
I am SO thrilled to hear that you are writing a memoir! Try to enjoy the journey—it's a magical ride. Keep me updated on how things are going and best of luck on this exciting endeavor.
I love that my book helped to spur you on...remember that books are mirrors =)
Jane
Jane, you’re very kind to have sent this encouraging reply—in April! I am just now seeing it for some reason (user error on my part, bien sûr!).
My memoir manuscript is coming along. I love your words that it is a “magical ride.” Yes! The process has been incredibly life-giving. I heard a musician/artist say this on a recent podcast re: songwriting: “You’ve got to fall in love with the journey. I mean, fall deeply in love with it. Because you only get to create it once.” I love that.
And I also love that this month’s Prompt from Paris is about reflection! Taking the time for regular reflection has been so key in my personal growth. And how magical that you included literal reflections of Paris in your post. It makes the practice all the more inspiring! 🇫🇷❤️
Don’t even think twice, Laura! I am still figuring this out—missing half the messages and thinking I replied to the other half! And, of course, I am still trying to make sure I am up to date on all the other apps. I could make this a full-time job! I am so excited to hear about your memoir—keep me posted on the progress, and bon courage!
Merci, Jane!
Congratulations on your book and on your musing about the craft of writing which is HARD! As a retired high school English and writing teacher, I used to tell my students this story. When being interviewed about his novel FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS, Ernest Hemingway was asked why he wrote (and rewrote) the last few sentences over and over. His response? “To get the words right.” Enough said….
My gosh, Susan! Thank you for sharing. I have a full head of hair, and sometimes I wonder how I have any left thanks to writing. But I do enjoy it, and I am going to keep trying. For many reasons, it's been good for me, as imperfect as it is. So happy to have you here on this little journey!
Keep writing!
Loved "The French Ingredient" and congratulations on its' publication anniversary! I remember reading that La Cuisine Paris was offering food tours and how excited I was to do the wonderful Chocolate and Pastry tour last year. This year it will be a cooking class, all inspired by you, your book and the lovely La Cuisine Paris!
It’s a journey, isn’t it? Love #9.
Congratulations, Jane, on celebrating the anniversary of your book!! I remember how much I enjoyed reading initially, and I often pick up a chapter or read the astuces and feel equally delighted with each visit. Thank you for your memoir, sharing your experiences and how writing can be a savior - this I am appreciative of you encouraging - with your prompts, journaling, and this, I am finding how helpful and beneficial it can be. While I am still working on the practice, whatever scribbled on the page (some days penmanship is questionable) is a way to sort out ideas, writing down a witty quote to remember (hopefully) or simply release some of the anxiety that seems to be perpetually swirling these days, whatever the reason, grabbing my (current) favorite pen or pencil and letting the words bloom on the page is a great way to start the day or simply, pause to pen the words. I am grateful for your writing continuing here — your stories, introductions to others, are creating inspiring bouquets of joy, wisdom, insights - thank you! I also love the quotes you share too - like sprinkles on a cupcake, a little something special. Bravo and congratulations on your book - cheers! Thank you for continuing to share your writing. Looking forward to future prompts!
Hi Jane…you are so insightful and generous with your thoughts and reflections. I hope I get to meet YOU when I attend the market/cooking class on May 24! On verra bien! Oh, forgot to mention your photography is lovely! Anyway, merçi bien…
Congrats, Jane! As a writer myself, I find it so much easier to write about other things than myself, so chapeau for putting your memoir out in the world.