Choices

December 6, 2014 Photo (340/365): Real or artificial? Tree lot or cut your own? Fir, spruce, pine, or balsam?

"I don't know, Linus. I just don't know." - Charlie Brown (#decemberphotochallenge - Day 6: Shopping)

"I think it needs me." ~ Charlie Brown

Coniferous

December 5, 2014 Photo (338/365): "Pine cones"

"The snow was so much like stars filling the dark trees that one could easily imagine its reason for being was nothing more than prettiness.” - Mary Oliver. Nature continues her holiday decorating. This weekend, I'll reveal mine. (#decemberphotochallenge - Day 5: Today's Weather)

French Friday: Opéra Garnier

The first time I visited the Opera Garnier was the first time I visited Paris. In fact, since I was staying near the palais, Opéra was my Métro stop.

I landed at Charles de Gaulle on a warm day in June 1994, took the RER B into Paris, transferred to the Métro, and emerged in front of this magnificent façade. It was my very first impression of this enchanting city -- and it was love at first sight! I hadn't even seen the Eiffel Tower yet, but I couldn't resist the allure of the opulent and mysterious Opéra. As soon as I settled in, I returned to the Palais Garnier for a tour. 

The last time I visited the Opéra was a snowy day in January 2013. It was cold and gray outside, but inside, it was warm and mysterious -- almost deserted because of the unusual Paris snowstorm. 

I almost felt as though I were trespassing. Perhaps, I've seen The Phantom of the Opera too many times! This grate protects the entrance to the REAL underground lake. You can't go down below, but you can go up the grand staircase.

If you're lucky, you may be allowed inside one of the private boxes (maybe even Box 5).

Peer out into the magnificent theatre.

Marvel at the stunning Chagall ceiling

Enjoy the juxtaposition of Garnier's beaux-arts architecture and the quirkly modern details.

Channel your inner Christine Daaé

or your inner Audrey (Funny Face)!

L'Opéra est magnifique!

Surprise

December 4, 2014 Photo (338/365): "Surprise"

Some little elf left a sweet gift on my desk today. I stepped out of my office for just a minute and when I returned, there it was: this cute, glittery snowman that plugs into my computer's USB port. He sparkles and casts holiday cheer all over my workspace. I hope to discover the identity of the Secret Santa who left me this lovely reminder that 'tis the season to spread holiday joy and to not take everything so seriously.  (Update 12/2:  The elf is Nan!)

(#decemberphotochallenge - Day 4: Joyous)

Accessories

December 3, 2014 (337/365): "Red"

"Bright reds, scarlet, crimson, or cherry: There is certainly a red for everyone." -  Christian Dior

I'm partial to classic neutrals: black, navy, gray, white, but it's amazing what a pop of red (nail polish, lip gloss, Louboutin soles) will do to elevate an outfit... or a landscape! (These berries are the perfect shade of red.)

(#decemberphotochallenge - Day 3: Red)