Di Mackey, visiting from Antwerp, writes:
"I'm not sure what to do guiltwise when staying with a hostess so gracious that the only job I am tasked with is drinking a glass of rather delicious red wine while she slaves over a hot stove, creating a lovely pasta dish that will accompany the light salad and crusty baguette dinner.
"As a New Zealander my exposure to things French had been limited before heading abroad. I have since learned that their wine is better than I had first realised, their food is often superior, both in terms of fresh produce used and preparation, that their bread is some of the best I have ever tasted and that I will never ever be fluent in this particular language.
"But I'm wandering ... something I do so very well sometimes. Ask Tara about conversation with Di. She has suffered quite some conversation already tonight.
"Anyway, I'm here at Tara's desk tonight, fighting a desire to pick up my camera in an attempt to capture something of the atmosphere I find here. Book titles that beg a reading, artworks that inspire and all kinds of bits and pieces that would bring out the artist in the least artistic among us.
"We have two more days to spend in this city she has come to call home. We've made such a lovely beginning that (guilt about being spoilt aside) I'm looking forward to seeing how things unfold."
Ed. note: I told Di she had to say nice things or she was buying dinner tomorrow!
This is a treat for us as well! Nothing better than great food, wine and company...enjoy!!
x...x
Posted by: stephanie | 05 March 2009 at 19:25
How fun to read Di on Tara's site! I love the merging of minds and I love it even more to think of you two trolling Paris having a smashing good time!!
Posted by: The Antiques Diva | 05 March 2009 at 09:01
Ohhh ... wow ... how wonderful for the chance to share friendship and wine and food and PARIS ... oh, and photography:) I'm also still amazed at the 25 euro train ride. I cannot wait to hear both of you share your stories!
Posted by: Barbara | 04 March 2009 at 16:25
The guest is as gracious as her hostess. Tara, I'm sure Di has only scratched the surface. You truly make everyone you meet feel like they are the center of the Universe...!
I'm so happy you were able to entertain and delight your friends with your cooking and company.
xoxo
Posted by: Gillian daSilva | 04 March 2009 at 15:00
Oh fun! Sounds like you are having an amazing time together. It's great that you get to tour around the city with someone in the know. Have even more fun!
Posted by: susanna's sketchbook | 04 March 2009 at 14:35
What a fun time you must be having! That wine does look so good and I am sure that bread was divine. Cheers to all good friends everywhere who get together! Sharing time and food with good friend is precious. Thanks or sharing with us.
Posted by: Helen | 04 March 2009 at 12:25
How envy you both. Two amazing Ladies come together in one of the beautiful cities. Have never experienced to meet up any blogger till now, I guess I'd like to. N'joy your time being to the fullest~
Posted by: CrossRoads | 04 March 2009 at 11:52
How wonderful that you two are together. It warms me just thinking of it. Have the best ever time.
Posted by: Carolien van der Gaag | 04 March 2009 at 09:32
Oh How lovely! Hello Di and Miss Tara and all you loveleys!!! (I am sure I spelled that wrong) Whata wonderful time, live up each moment of friendly visits!! xoxo
Posted by: A Fanciful Twist | 04 March 2009 at 06:43
What a wonderful guest post. Di, you make me wish I were there with you. I would love to poke around Tara's bookshelves. I know you two will have a wonderful time. I'm looking forward to your pictures. Di, you'll show us yours, too, right?
Posted by: Relyn | 04 March 2009 at 06:36
Delightful! Sounds like such a sweet time.
Posted by: Rebekah | 04 March 2009 at 05:26
Mmmmm, I can smell the baguette all the way over here in California. And the wine, what a lovely bouquet! Sounds like a perfect evening! Santé!
Posted by: dutchbaby | 04 March 2009 at 01:30
That's one excellent wine!
Posted by: Colette Copeland | 04 March 2009 at 00:19
Blogging, bread, wine and friendship. All such beautiful choices.
Wait, did I mention the books and art?! Enjoy your time together.
xo
Posted by: Christina | 03 March 2009 at 23:42