I've been looking for a classic mortar & pestle like this since moving to France. My Thai mortar & pestle has served me well, but is being retired to make space for this beauty. I bargained hard for it, taking it home for €60 - score! And I saved extra by lugging it around the rest of the day, not needed to go to a fitness class. (Which wasn't really necessary, since all the fitness instructions in Paris are also on vacation, too.)
[Tip: If you're coming to France, here are some addresses and tips for antiquing and checking out Flea Markets and Thrift Stores in Paris.]
Reliably this time of year, I get messages from people coming to Paris, concerned about restaurant closures. The folks at Paris By Mouth did a round up of What's Open in August in Paris, that you'll find helpful. Sure, some bakeries will be closed, and chocolate shops, since chocolate + soaring temperatures aren't a good combination. But you'll find a number of cafés and neighborhood bakeries open...and (nearly) empty, which is remarkably enjoyable to those of us who stick around.
I did a bunch of traveling this spring. I finally acted on all the invitations and "You should go to_______" requests, and took some time to see family and friends here and there. I also scrutinized the pages of L'appart, my upcoming new book, one last time with my editor in New York - who I think went home every day and poured herself a giant glass of wine afterward. My eyes are now kaput, and I've got an appointment with my 'ophtalmo' (eye doctor) next month (she's on vacation, too), for new glasses.
Speaking of books, and travel, my publisher is finishing up dates for my book tour this fall. I'm trying to hit as many cities as one person can. I've got a few dates already up on my Schedule page and will be adding more as soon as they are confirmed. I can't wait!
- David
