The Sweet Life in Paris

I know, I know. We can't seem to keep up with our own life these days. There have been parties, wine tastings, new food discoveries, and a chili fest. Not to mention, I am still waiting for our contributing editor to post pics from the nuptials of Johanna and Magnus. That still seems like it was yesterday! And here it is October. I thought I would just jump in and post a few pics from the highlight of the week (besides our upcoming bocce ball win tonight! Come on Lost Balls!!)

I love a good street car sighting

This week I had the opportunity to meet David Lebovitz, the former Chez Panisse pastry chef turned cookbook author, not to mention hilarious blogger. (side note: how long has Chez Panisse been on my list now? I smell a birthday dinner!) David was in town for a food blogging conference that happened to be sold out, otherwise I would have been all over it, and he also made a few stops in San Francisco to talk about his latest book: The Sweet Life in Paris: Delicious Adventures in the World's Most Glorious - and Perplexing - City.

I stumbled upon David's blog a while ago, and follow him and his adventures in Paris quite religiously. I could not pass up the opportunity to get my book signed and my heart actually raced at the thought of exchanging a few words. I loved this book. I love his writing style, his sense of humor, and I am dying to try one of his recipes. It was also fun to read this book while sitting by the pool in France this summer as he commented on everything from French social conduct to the mysteries of men's footwear. I even asked him if he was ever able to find that blasted pair of 110 cm shoelaces. No such luck. Oddly enough, I had a hard time finding them myself in an attempt to give him a lovely parting gift, but that's another story.

It's no secret that I love food, and I have always had an admiration for chefs. But a chef turned author living in Paris?? He is my George Clooney of the food and writing world. Okay, maybe a little more like Neil Patrick Harris (who I also happen to adore) but I digress.....

A glimpse of the bookshelves at Omnivore Books. One of my new favorite spots in Noe Valley. Shelves oozing with all kinds of cookbooks, including various vintage books, collectibles and signed 1st editions. Saxby's Delicious Puff Pastry anyone?

Approaching the counter. Those Poco Dolce chocolates were melt in your mouth deelish. I would also like to thank the lady standing next to me who pointed out that I had said chocolate all over my face.

As I was getting closer to the counter among a handful of other fans and hopefuls the question was.....do I get the picture? Do I ask him to humor me and pose for a picture? Do I ask a stranger in the crowd to push the button on the camera? Do I embarrass myself as the crazed fan and writer wannabe?

OF COURSE! I am so glad I took a trip over the bridge to get a glimpse of what is ultimately possible if you do what you love. Successful people always say the same thing: do what you love, and the rest will follow. David, you are officially invited to my Celebrity Thanksgiving Dinner.