Calla, it was lovely to read your happy memoir this morning - for two reasons. The first: in the last few weeks, I caught up with recently published memoirs. They were all about unhappy pasts. Molly Jong-Fast's “How to Lose Your Mother” was about how narcissistic and drunk her mom Erica Jong was and how she, Molly, struggled to be sober. I myself stopped drinking alcohol several years ago. It was very easy. I'm not good at moderation, so just not drinking at all was simple. No AA, and I'm around plenty of people who drink and it never occurs to me to want what they're having. But by the time I finished MSNBC political pundit Molly's Nepo-Baby hate letter to her mom … I wanted a stiff drink! I made a batch of cookies instead. So thank you, for reminding me that wonderful things can happen among the vines, especially if they're accompanied by a great meal in a beautiful town in Switzerland.
Second, I lived for a bit outside Geneva in 1961, when I was eight. My mom and a friend decided it would be good for their kids to experience Europe. I suspect they also liked the idea of getting away from their husbands. We lived in a farmhouse in Lullier par Jussy and I went to the International School in Geneva, where I saw Rita Hayworth's fifth grade daughter Yasmin get out of a limo every morning - in high heels. I was terrified by these sophisticated children! Geneva was a contrast of the rich and famous and the countryside villages which were still in economic recovery after WWII, but with a fairytale beauty nonetheless. I still visit it in my dreams, and your piece reminded me of the pleasures Switzerland offers us. Thank you.
Calla, from reading your articles, you have lived in Weston, Ct, Martha's Vineyard/ Nantucket and Montecito. I am not sure how many of the MAGA readers can relate to your interesting stories from your past. :). All three places would probably be included in a list of the wealthiest communities in the US. Your life could be a chapter in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "Great Gatsby".
Caroline, So happy that my memories, far and near, delight. The owner of the Auberge, J.J., 's book is an enchanting tale, if you can find. He wrote it during Covid at his home in Grandvaux. Calla
Great story to read at a time when things are stirred up in the U.S. Your picture reminds me of Catharine Hepburn. Maybe someday I'll get back to France.
Calla, it was lovely to read your happy memoir this morning - for two reasons. The first: in the last few weeks, I caught up with recently published memoirs. They were all about unhappy pasts. Molly Jong-Fast's “How to Lose Your Mother” was about how narcissistic and drunk her mom Erica Jong was and how she, Molly, struggled to be sober. I myself stopped drinking alcohol several years ago. It was very easy. I'm not good at moderation, so just not drinking at all was simple. No AA, and I'm around plenty of people who drink and it never occurs to me to want what they're having. But by the time I finished MSNBC political pundit Molly's Nepo-Baby hate letter to her mom … I wanted a stiff drink! I made a batch of cookies instead. So thank you, for reminding me that wonderful things can happen among the vines, especially if they're accompanied by a great meal in a beautiful town in Switzerland.
Second, I lived for a bit outside Geneva in 1961, when I was eight. My mom and a friend decided it would be good for their kids to experience Europe. I suspect they also liked the idea of getting away from their husbands. We lived in a farmhouse in Lullier par Jussy and I went to the International School in Geneva, where I saw Rita Hayworth's fifth grade daughter Yasmin get out of a limo every morning - in high heels. I was terrified by these sophisticated children! Geneva was a contrast of the rich and famous and the countryside villages which were still in economic recovery after WWII, but with a fairytale beauty nonetheless. I still visit it in my dreams, and your piece reminded me of the pleasures Switzerland offers us. Thank you.
Dear Polly, Merci! I always love your comments. CJC
A refreshing read to start the day. Thank you, Calla, for sharing some lovely memories with us.
Merci Monica. It's such a treat to be able to be "refreshing". Have a lovely day! Calla
Calla, from reading your articles, you have lived in Weston, Ct, Martha's Vineyard/ Nantucket and Montecito. I am not sure how many of the MAGA readers can relate to your interesting stories from your past. :). All three places would probably be included in a list of the wealthiest communities in the US. Your life could be a chapter in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "Great Gatsby".
I love this enchanting piece. I hope there will be more from this spirited author. What a delight!
Caroline, So happy that my memories, far and near, delight. The owner of the Auberge, J.J., 's book is an enchanting tale, if you can find. He wrote it during Covid at his home in Grandvaux. Calla
Another great story from a widow of the world from half way around the planet, thanks for the memories Calla.
Dear DL, Merci et Bonne Journée.CJC
Great story to read at a time when things are stirred up in the U.S. Your picture reminds me of Catharine Hepburn. Maybe someday I'll get back to France.
Lovely story
A great antidote to the news of the day, mostly distressing
I hope you got your wrist healed up
Ask your doc for a DEXA
Dear Paul, So glad I was able to cheer you up! Merci for your concern What is a DEXA? Calla
DEXA - bone density exam.
Nice social piece.... *S*