I am one of the few individuals who actually loves the dog days of august in NYC. When I lived in NY, for me, it was that last burst of warm air and sultry evenings before Fall and Winter took hold. I love all the seasons. Spending most of my life on the east coast , it’s part of my evolution each year.

I digress though. This is not about the weather report in NY.

This is about a strange and magical trip I just came back from. In NYC. My beloved island. I went there to debut my dinnerware line. That in itself was an extraordinary experience. For those of you who know my journey in life, it was monumental!

And the journey has led me to places and people that are unforgettable and inspirational. I was honored (and sometimes overwhelmed) by being in the same space with so many esteemed and talented designers. It took my breath away.

Several people touched my life on this trip.  2 of those people were instrumental in ensuring I would be able to make my debut. Kathleen’s unwavering belief in me and guidance; and Rick’s big heart enabled me to be there.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Before I share some of my favorite NY spots, I’m also writing this entry to remind you that friends are golden. Treasure them. Nurture them. They are priceless.

Ok, here’s some highlights of my NYC jaunt......

For a great evening of wine and food, there’s a lovely Spanish wine bar in the East Village. Bar Carrera. It’s my new favorite spot. Already planning a trip back.

For an unusual shopping experience (that is, if you’re looking for a prom dress), window shopping along 39th street between 10th and 9th avenues is a cacophony of tulle, sequins and fake taffeta.

And for flowers that would make any girl cry (and not in a good way), the artificial colored gerber daisies that were invading NY at every local market are something you should avoid bringing as a gift to anyone.

In the meatpacking district there is a strange low/high end dining spot. Not sure of the address but you can’t miss it. It’s somewhere between Pastis and the Maritime Hotel. If the Rockwell group redesigned McDonalds this is what it would look like.

For outdoor dining, Paradou in the Meat Packing district. I had a great meal with Rick and apparently I also had an ardent admirer. Not quite the male suitor I was hoping for but he was a lovely breed of Briard.

Another favorite spot for drinks and dining is also in the East Village. Lucien is like being back in Paris.

And there’s always Lucky Strike in Soho for another Paris Bistro fix. Perfect spot for lunch when you’ve been walking around the city for 5 hours. The second part of that walk is how I landed at the Spanish wine bar in the East Village. You can’t do this in LA. There is the absence of spontaneity when you have to drive everywhere. Am I starting to get homesick again for NY?

The Margielas and I (inside shoe joke) spent the day soaking up the city.  And we also met the most amazing jewelry designer who creates pieces that look like braided horse tails with silver weaved through them. You can find her work soon at Zero in Nolita. Those serendipitous moments in life. Our shared horse inspired designs may also inspire a collaboration between us. Is NY calling me back?  It IS 6 hours closer to my adopted homeland Paris. Another plus.