In attempt to keep some sort of grasp on our recent trip to France, I decided we would try making some of the tasty treats that were shared with us by our friends there. Okay, so not exactly what you might find in a Parisian patisserie, but my guys and I enjoyed them as well as their friends, they were easy, and they contain chocolate, so it was sufficient enough from a flavor standpoint, but most important, it brought back into light some conversations and laughter and joy that we had experienced, and that was the whole purpose anyway.

Here is a link to the recipe Petits Pains Au Chocolate from www.epicurious.com. I would use a bit less chocolate (never thought I would ever say that, but…) Lindt Bittersweet worked quite well - found that at World Market in the white package. Enjoy!

Ten Things I Brought Back With Me From Paris

1. The reminder to keep connections to those you hold dear in your heart no matter how far or close they live.
2. Explore the world around you. Get to know what and who is in your own backyard.
3. Pay attention to your surroundings. Deeply experience things both beautiful and ordinary, hear glorious sounds, and participate in creative adventures daily.
4. Select small tastes are much more satisfying than opulent overindulgences.
5. Walking 2 to 5 miles daily makes you feel great, helps the environment and can most definitely even be done in LA.
6. It should never be considered a waste of time to sit under the trees and do nothing.
7. When you show politeness, respectfulness and appreciation, you find that a good share of people are more than willing to assist you when you are in need.
8. A rekindled desire to be able to converse in multiple languages.
9. The knowledge that the foundation for most things worth eating is Butter, Sugar and Eggs
10. The realization that the world would be a much happier place if more people walked around with long, thin sticks of bread under their arm.