About

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you’ve imagined.” – Henry David Thoreau

Bonjour et bienvenue!

This Thoreau quote sums up my personal philosophy: To pursue my dreams and live a life with as few regrets as possible.

Living the life I imagined is a work in progress. Following my dreams led me from a childhood in Alabama to living and working in New York City, Chicago, Milwaukee, Vermont (twice!), and ultimately my adopted hometown of Champaign, Illinois.

After many years of graduate school, I have practiced law, lectured at universities, edited academic books and articles, and taught yoga. I have also moved seven times in ten years, gotten married, managed chronic illnesses, and had a baby after in vitro fertilization. Through it all, I try to find pleasure in the simple things that can make daily life so special – not a list of accomplishments or accolades.

My passion for writing, healthy living, and French language and culture inspired me to start this blog. Joie de vivre is a French phrase meaning “joy in living.” To me, joy is deeply personal and joyful living is an attitude, a philosophy, a lifestyle, and, ultimately, a choice.

Over the years, my writing has celebrated food, travel, and joyful everyday living with a commitment to authenticity and suitability. It also highlights family time with L’Husband, Le Bébé, and Le Chien, a mischievous miniature dachshund named Charlie Brown.

I am a new(ish) mom to a busy toddler and adjusting life in my forties. I’ve documented many eras on my blog, from the pandemic to pregnancy, and am shifting mental and emotional gears as I discover who I am now.

Merci for reading and joining this journey. Please subscribe and share if you like. I’m happy you’re here and hope you keep in touch!

À bientôt,

Katie