Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Skiing

This Year's skiing holiday has been a little bit volatile... during the first days, snow storms were raging outside, while we stayed inside, recovering from stomach flu.



Once we started to feel better,


the skies cleared up too, and we had some fantastic skiing.


This year I bought my first a helmet. A few years ago, hardly anyone was wearing them apart from the kids, but each year more and more people do. I love the attached visor on this one, and as a wonderful benefit, it keeps the head warm and protected from icy February winds.


Mont Blanc






With 'helmet hair' (actually, there is hardly any difference from my usual hair... it is so flat that it qualifies as helmet hair for most of the year!) and my beautiful 'Les Plaisir du Froid' 90 Carré in a close to the neck cowboy knot.






Les Plaisirs du Froid









This post comes so much later than I intended it to. Keeping up with orders, administration, organisation, requests and projects, and running everything smoothly (including my home), seems to take up more and more time, and always more than the days have. I am so incredibly sorry the blog has suffered a little bit lately as a result, and I miss participating in the fun of Le Salon. I hope you ladies keep the party going for the time being. I am working on improving my systems and hope it will result in saving time in the long run. In the meantime, I'll post as much and as frequently as I can, and wishing you all a wonderful start into spring xx



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69 comments:

  1. Dearest MaiTai,
    I am so glad everyone is recovered from the stomach flu! And tell me, how do you manage to look so chic while wearing a helmet? Must confess a slight sadness reading your last paragraph. How I hate to think of you overloaded and over-busy, when surely life is to be savored! I hope Le Salon never becomes a source of stress for you. Please know it has brought only sunshine and joy to your lucky readers! Enjoy your family holiday, and "we'll see you when we see you."
    Warm aloha and hugs,
    Fifi

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  2. You look gorgeous even with helmet hair:) SO smart of you to wear a helmet, I finally caved in a few years ago though I haven't skied in almost 2 years (hurt my knee). Your pictures are spectacular...thanks for a virtual trip to gorgeous Mont Blanc..happy you are feeling better.

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  3. Looks wonderful, I am currently in Niseko, Japan with my husband, daughter and grandson. I don't ski but they are having a wonderful time on the mountain. I am going for long crunchy walks. After the long hot HUMID summer in Sydney it is most refreshing.

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  4. Dearest Mai Tai,

    Welcome back!!! You were greatly missed! So happy to know that you enjoyed your holidays despite the stomach flu.
    Even with 'elmet hair' (which I can't see :-)) you look very stylish!
    Love the beautiful photographs of the Alps, the snow landscape and the very cozy and warm light of the lantern.
    Wishing you a wonderful and relaxing weekend and sending you big Spring hugs, Manuela xx

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    1. I meant 'helmet', sorry! M xx

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    2. I just wanted to add that you should take it easy, dearest Mai Tai. Don't worry about us. We will always be here. Like some of the ladies said, sometimes it's nice to see older posts again.

      Take care! Love, Manuela xx

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  5. You are the epitome of chic, my dearest Mai Tai--an Hermes scarf under snow gear, you have inspired me! So glad you and yours had a good trip after recovering. We will patiently await your posts when you are able!

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  6. Dear MaiTai - Beautiful photos! Many thanks for sharing while so busy, and hoping you're feeling much better now, too. Les Plaisir du Froid is such a gorgeous design, hoping very much for a reissue! NN

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  7. you look so young and pretty here. It is BOILING and humid where I live. Summer has gone on and on and on.

    xx

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  8. Dear Mai Tai. What a pleasure to find you back. True, with the elmet you are still distinguished and beautiful. And its really important nowadays. Too dangerous on the pistes.
    Beautiful photos of course. This flue was an epidemy I think in all Europe. I am still tired of it! Very long to recuperate.
    So to work so much when returning must had been difficult....
    Amities

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  9. Dearest MaiTai,

    As always, it is a treat for the eyes/soul to visit your blog and view the world through your discerning lens.

    And dearest, it is a pleasure waiting for your each and every post, no matter how frequent or infrequent they arrive. Good things are always worth waiting for (your posts, pictures, thoughts).

    I was sorry to learn that there was a flu bug bothering you/your family; glad to hear it was chased away.

    MaiTai, take your time in your chores, upgrades, business duties. I know it sounds ironic, but sometimes, when I don't allow the clock to rush me through my tasks each day, it's almost relaxing/meditative.

    and pls don't worry/apologize about posting--there is so much beauty packed in your travellog and style posts, I often go back to refer to them when I have a question about a pattern/color/way of styling a scarf or accessory.

    Enjoy your catch up time and enjoy finding new clever ways of doing things!

    much love,
    sammie

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  10. Hi MT, I am still checking in when I can, and enjoying your posts so very much, but rarely have time to comment or linger, as life just seems to get busier! I do sympathise re being super busy; I always imagined that as my children got older, now late teens, that life would be quieter, but with university on the horizon now, plus many demanding exams, along with running the home and business, I still seem to be going at top speed! I have some time off today so am enjoying checking in with my favourite blogs - whilst planning the family's Easter trip! Your blog as always an inspiration, full of great images, good ideas and warmth and even friendship, 21st century style. Good luck with streamlining your systems, and I look forward to checking in again soon. Have a good week. Spring is just around the corner here in UK, and I can't wait for it to finally arrive. Best regards and thank you again. s ;)

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  11. Bonjour! What a lovely vacation--thank you for sharing!

    Rest assured, we will take your posts when we can get them--and they are worth waiting for always. I find myself going back to older posts when I need some wardrobe inspiration--the site is a fantastic resource.

    xx--Greta

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  12. Dearest MT,

    I am skiing vicariously through you...as my knee has never fully healed :( The good news is...I have beautiful ski outfits which make me look like an Olympian (hehe) so I just walk around saying "Phew...that was a great run!" and them promptly get a hot buttered rum!

    You look fantastic in that helmet! It makes you look slightly "dangereux"....(in my book, that means sexy!)

    Hope you're feeling better, and that you find some moments of rest in your busy schedule!

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    1. Oh, haverfordgal, I am all about the après ski these days;-)
      Have you ever seen such a tricked out,tres chic gondola car? I am definately skiing in the wrong places!
      Hope your bubbly therapy is going well and time is proving your friend!
      Warm weekend hugs to you,
      Trudye

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    2. Dear Trudye, I love the gondola! Might even fight my fear of heights to ride in it (champers would help). Dear Haverfordgal, your strategy for the slopes is brilliant. Hope you are both doing very well and your weather improving!
      Warm aloha,
      Fifi

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    3. Yep, haverfordgal, that's definitely my idea of skiing, too. I use, "what a great run. Damn the snowboarders, though. One nearly ran me over." (that makes it sound more authentic.) Or you can prop up one leg on an ottoman and looked slightly pathetic, and sympathetic skiers just might buy you another one of those rum thingies! Work it, I say, work it.

      Hope you're doing well. Are you off the champagne regimen yet?

      Cheers,
      Jerrine

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    4. Dear Fifi ...Yikes! My reply keeps getting eaten! Hopefully, the third time is the charm!
      I have been pondering the gondola car and wondering if it is for display only! I cannot imagine how dirty the white fur would get with daily use! I might even try to sneak the pillow under my parka;-)
      The champs does help concur one's fears...IMHO!
      Weather here has turned into rain and more rain! But, we are expecting an extended visit by the sun this weekend...yesss! Hoping your Spring like weather has continued,Fifi!
      Chin chin to a sunny weekend for all in Le Salon,
      Trudye

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    5. Dearest Trudye, the weather varies wildly here! Yesterday, cold and wet, today 60 and sunny. When the sun comes out, almost everyone forgets how to drive. Crazy. Hope your rain turns to sunshine very soon!
      Aloha and hugs,
      Fifi

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  13. Darling MT,
    So very sorry to hear you all were a little under the weather while on your ski holiday! But, it does look as if you were feeling better once the skies cleared, helmut hair and all! I love the extra layer of warmth those helmets provide,but feel a liitle claustrophobic in one. Your look 'marvelous' in yours!
    Oh, the pressures,as women, we put on ourselves to keep home,family,business,etc. in top form...all at the same time! Self care is so very important always, but especially when stressed!
    Slow down, remember to breathe, and know we will be here when you can reset. I am sure most of us gathered in Le Salon can always find something to chat about!
    Sending energy across the miles. Mwahs, T xx

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  14. Gee, I don't think I've ever seen anyone wearing a helmet and newly recovered from the stomach flu look so glamorous. In the one photo, you look like a very chic fly!

    I'm so sorry to hear that you were temporarily felled by the bug, though. It seems to be hitting all over the world, but at least you recovered to enjoy most of your holiday and some spectacular weather. Les Plaisir looked as if she was visiting her birthplace. I loved the photos of the motif from the scarf coupled with that tree against the brilliant blue sky.

    Don't worry about us. We know you have way too much to do. The lovely Salon Swans will keep a'swimmin! If we get ourselves into too much mischief, though, you'll have to step in and slap us. (You hear that sammie, Trudye, Fifi, Manuela, et. al.?)

    Love to you and the family,
    Jerrine

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    1. Mischief? Now what makes you think that,Jerrine? LOL! Yes, we are are a spirited crowd and as said above, we can always find something to chat about!
      Hope it is warming up for you and that your azaleas will be in full bloom soon!
      Happy weekend, T xx

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    2. Dearest Jerrine, I resemble that remark! Mischief? Moi? Only if you start it! And then dear Trudye jumps in, and what can I do but join the fray? But we will behave ourselves this time, for our dear MaiTai's sake. (No guarantees about future posts, however.)
      Much aloha and hugs to all,
      Fifi

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    3. Yes, you do, Fifi. You look all lovely and sweet and innocent, but I bet you can be a rowdy little monkey when you want to be. Am I right? Actually, I am very fond of rowdy little monkeys and have been known to walk on the rowdy side myself from time to time. (I know that Trudye does, lol!)

      Yes, we'll try and behave ourselves for MT's sake for a time, but secretly, I think she likes rowdy little monkeys . . . or rowdy swans or whatever, as long as they wear Hermès scarves and exhibit good taste.

      Rowdy on, Fif,
      Jerrine

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    4. My dearest Jerrine, I have almost forgotten what rowdy feels like, but intend to rediscover it tout de suite! Watch out, world! Of course, when arrested I will make reference to your baaaad influence. I might also mention dear Trudye, and perhaps the excellent havefordgal and even the lovely and classy Manuela and Claudia! It's my "Share the Guilt" tour. But when they drag me off to The Big House, I'll be wearing H, and MT as well!
      With warm aloha-ha-ha,
      Fifi

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    5. Oh Jerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrine!

      Have I ever mentioned how I seek out your posts, and each and every time, find something to LOL, and to marvel at your prowess w/ the pen. Jerrine, you really ought to write a weekly column for the NYT or equivalent. Your commentary is much more lively and rich than what I've read lately.

      Gift giving is such an art, and you my dear, are a master, having chosen Plaisirs de Froid for our lovely MaiTai. (gilding the lily expertly)

      It says alot that MaiTai selected it as her travel scarf, and leave it to MaiTai's discerning eye to zoom-in on the blanket of snow on the trees. It could be, as you point out, the naissance of this beautiful design by Gryakar.

      Jerr and LeSalon ladies...I have a question...about Shoes:

      Do you coordinate a new pair of shoes w/ an accessory or an article of clothing...ah, especially if it's an off-the-wall color (ya, I did it; bought a pair of shoes just for the kooky color; I love em, but they are not neutral in any sense of the word. Is there any hope?)

      The shoes are bright green. gaaaaaa, I love em! gaaaa, they go w/ all white or all black; nuthin else!!! but I still luv em.

      Would you buy a scarf, a belt, a bag, a cardi, a top, a skirt, or gasp (never for me) a pair of lime green pants?

      Perhaps we can gather our thoughts/ideas, and then ask MaiTai to select which article of clothing or accessories she would prefer? Just a thought...would love and appreciate other suggestions.

      xoxo
      sammie

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    6. Dear Fifi and Jerrine,

      You girls are funny! :-)
      A lovely weekend to you and all the ladies here. Spring hugs, Manuela xx

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    7. Dear Sammie,
      I often coordinate the shoes with the scarf I´m wearing. I don´t owe any shoes in bright green but in pink, orange and yellow, I do. You could combine your green shoes with a scarf where you have that kind of green. So see what I mean please google the Hermes scarf "Musée Vivant du Cheval" in apple green.
      Good luck finding the right combination! Manuela

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    8. Dearest Fifi,
      Not to worry, we will bail you out or break you out if they set the bail too high!
      Always happy to help you get reacquainted with your mischievous self and remind you to never loose sight of her;-)
      Please see one of my comments below about rowdy. Sometimes hard to know best place to insert a reply. So many rowdy gals hanging around here!
      Fun weekend to you and all here,
      Trudye

      P.S. Might be a good idea to keep one of our contact numbers on hand for the one phone call that you get from the BIg House!!!!

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    9. Dear Sammie - what a delightful dilemma! Since so many colors are considered "neutral" now, you could try many combinations. Green and khaki or tan are nice together if you are find a shade of tan that does not suggest an army uniform! I think silver and gray would also be lovely with the bright green. You can let the green stand alone, or reference it subtly by using it as a minor color elsewhere, say in the print of a scarf. I would not try matching large pieces like purses or cardis to those shoes, but that is just my taste. I would let the shoes be the pop of color in the outfit. Have fun!
      Warm aloha, Fifi

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    10. Sorry, Fifi, but that conspiracy theory defense you're planning on using won't hold up in court. Be sure and stock up on some H scarves that look nice with orange jump suits!

      And the "Share the Guilt" tour sounds like it might have been The Stones" fourth or fifth album!

      Rock and rowdy, Fifi,
      Jerrine

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    11. sammie ("greenie," as I shall now think of you), thank you sincerely for the compliment. It's truly appreciated, especially today, when I'm mired elbow deep in about fifteen of the boss' corporate tax returns . . . and the boss is merrily on his way to go skiing. I'll probably be thrown into the slammer with Fifi for forging Federal documents, and I do not look particularly good in orange - not Federal penitentiary orange anyway!

      But, once I get through the stacks of paper, I promise I'll get right back to my column for The New York Times - sure I will; in my dreams.

      Now about those new green shoes, which are perfect for the upcoming holiday by the way. I always say buy and wear what you like and what appeals to you. Dressing should be an extension of one's personality, I think. And, there's certainly nothing wrong with accenting an all black or white outfit with a touch of color.

      Of course, I would avoid taking it a bit too far and adding green tights to the mix. One does not want to look like a demented leprechaun or Kermit the Frog, my dear.

      I like Manuela's suggestion of adding a scarf, though. It can tie the whole look together. Of course, a new Kelly in green would be nice, too, making those green shoes you've bought the most expensive pair on earth. But, on second thought, I hate matching shoes to bags, so scratch the green Kelly; go with a scarf.

      Have fun with your new shoes. I'm wearing dung brown ones myself today - kind of match my mood.

      Cheers,
      Jerrine

      PS - I was thrilled that PdF got to go skiing. It must be so happy in its new home and with its lovely owner. All scarves should be so lucky.



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    12. Trudye dear, I do agree with your comment below - we must not allow the world to become dull. Our rowdiness is a public service! Jerrine, I confess a weakness for rock music, although I love many kinds of music. A life without music is unfathomable. It's an honor to be compared to The Stones! I even have a bass guitar which I play very badly but with great enjoyment (Willie the pug is my biggest, indeed only, fan)!
      Rockin' aloha,
      Fifi

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    13. Ok, Fifi , now you are talking! Love me some rock music,too! And I must say that you are the bomb diggety...bass guitar and all! Very impressed my dear! I cannot imagine life without music either!
      Must get Willie to spill the beans on what you like to play!
      Rock steady,Fifi,
      T

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    14. Dearest Jerrrrrrine,

      I was able to reply to you via Reply, so doing so here instead of starting a new post. I'm not great w/ these things; barely survive.

      Yeech, dang them tax rtns as the boss takes off for vaca...well, I can see how 'dem dang dung brown shoes dun match yur mood--blah!!! I hope it brightens up a bit soon.

      Thanks for eliminating 2 things from my shopping list: a green Kelly bag (in a small size, oh, it would be adorable) and green leprechaun (sp? I dunno how to spell that) tights!!!

      So far, LeSalon's Manuela, Fifi and Jerrine all vote "no handbag!" Yay! I save money when I stop by here!!!

      And, the consensus so far is to coordinate w/ a scarf...OK, I'm working on it...and I'll have some titles/colorways to list in a few days, and perhaps I could get your input/votes on which ones y'all like best.

      Until then, have a rockin time Fifi, have a sunny orange pink shoe day Manuela, and dearest Jerrrrrr stay sparklingly witty and erudite as you are!

      much love,
      sammie

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    15. Hot damn, sammie, you're taking those green shoes seriously! I wish we could have show and tell here. I'd so like to see them.

      Aren't you glad that you have the "budget minded" Fifi, Manuela and moi looking out for your bank account's future? (I'm sure they're about as budget minded as I am, lol!.)

      Now, you will be sporting them tomorrow for St. Patrick's Day, right? I don't know if that's a big holiday where you are, but here, it's a huge excuse to drink green beer, get stinkin drunk and make a general nuisance of oneself. It started here on Saturday night! I want to beat up a leprechaun at this point!

      To green . . . the color of spring, money, leprechauns and . . . sammie's new shoes.

      Best,
      Jerrine



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    16. Heya Jerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!

      OMG, u make me LOL!!! luv reading your prose Jerrine!

      If I could ever figure out how to post anything except text on these message boards, will do show-and-tell. I'm compiling a short list of "yes" "no" "maybe", along w/ a column showing how much it costs/saves. We gotta get MaiTai's expert opinion on these wardrobe things, and I want her to know we are using our time here on her blog wisely...well, not me, but everyone else here who's not foolish enough to fall for green shoes that only go w/ all white or all black/gray outfits!?! OMG, but I love 'em to bits!!!

      Annnnnnd, thanks to the LeSalon great minds here...I've saved OVER 8k !!! Imagine that?

      Wheweeee, that's about 17 90cm silk twills, or 8 140cm mousselines, or almost 9 mousseline stoles....(geez, only 8 or 9 mousselines? Maybe I needa eliminate some wallets or small leather goods to 'save' more $, so I can up that mousseline total?!?)

      Hope the weather has returned to somewhat more normal conditions.

      Yes, to green, and to you dear Jerrine, w/ smiles,

      sammie

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  15. Glad to hear you are feeling better after your bout of flu. Thank you for sharing these beautiful photos. Even with "helmet hair" you look stylish and beautiful as ever. Such a difference in attitude between Europe and the US. Here almost everyone wears a helmet, particularly after Natasha Richardson's accident. As an equestrian I am constantly experimenting with hair products to help counteract flat hair after hours of riding.

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    1. Tatiana, if you find anything that works, would you please post it here? My sister constantly complains about flat hair from both her riding and ski helmets. She's convinced that she's doomed to a life of flat hair. I tell her that she was born with flat hair and to stop complaining about it. That does not seem to make matters any better. I get very dark looks.

      Now, if a helmet really does help flatten hair, I may invest in one as a styling aid. I have the opposite problem!

      Thanks,
      Jerrine

      PS - Sister is greatly relieved to see that the lovely MT is now wearing a ski helmet. She was very worried about her, especially after she suffered a bad concussion a few years ago on the slopes, and the ER doctors told her she wouldn't have survived if she hadn't been wearing a good helmet.

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  16. Don't try and pull that innocent as a lamb deal with me, Ms. Trudye. I know better! But mischief can be so much fun with the right mischief-makers, right? I'm renaming us Les Cygnes Malicieux just to get into the spirit of future mischief to come.

    Warming up? Heck, is went from 28 to 76 in the matter of five days. I almost had to turn on the air conditioning last night (but since it's a brand new air conditioner, I would have had to have consulted the owners manual first, and that seemed like too much work.)

    And, azaleas? I haven't seen any of them yet, but the pollen is already in the air, so they can't be far behind. Ah . . spring, so lovely; so sneezy.

    Happy the week is almost over to you,
    Jerrine

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    1. Power to the rowdy girls fist bump! Really,the world would be a tad dull without us,no?
      We had to get new AC units last year,too! Wowzer,major expense but so worth it!
      Lately, I never know whether we have the heater or AC on before bedtime!! Today azaleas here are beginning to pop!
      Power to the helmet,too! So glad your sister has joined the club!
      Helmet hair advice for her...spray some dry shampoo on the roots then pull back into a pony tail. If no ponytail just mess the H (not referring to Hermes) out of it before putting on helmet...it works! If you do want flat hair,J, get a helmet...it works!
      Big hug,
      T

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    2. Of course, it would be, Trudye - dull, dull, dull. We're performing a valuable service to society, aren't we. Either that or we're entirely too good at rationalizing our less-than-lady-like behavior. Anyway, here's to fun, and thank goodness that lovely MT is willing to put up with us.

      Yes, AC = major expense - a Birkin's worth, I figure. And, since mine had to be lifted onto the top of my building, add in a wallet to cover the crane rental, too. At one point, they were talking about the possible need to bring it in by helicopter! I may have fainted at that point. I know I turned very pale.

      Little sister has been dutifully wearing a helmet ever since she took up skiing again, thank God. She's not a terribly confident skier, so right after she buckles on the helmet, she takes half a Xanax. I'm not kidding!

      I'll pass along your anti-helmet hair trick, though. Hopefully, the hair doesn't stick to the helmet, does it? Yuck and oooouch.

      Big hug to you, too,
      Jerrine

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    3. No, silly...it is a dry shampoo! Yuck and ouch is right with the other! Trick works to avoid hat hair,too!
      Our AC project was about the cost of four Birkins...ugh,yuck and ouch,too! I would have fainted,too, if they mentioned a helicopter:-(
      Now we can both rest in peace knowing we will have our new AC for the hot weather around the corner!
      Cheers,
      T

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    4. OMG, I just snorted Evian out my nose! Half a Xanax and then hit the skis?? Perhaps there is hope for me on the slopes after all. I was happily resigned to hanging out with haverfordgal (in one of her outfits, no less), pretending to have shooshed or whatever you call it. That's probably still the best plan. As for helmets, I cut my hair short recently because I wanted a change, and I got one. Now comes the tiresome task of growing it back. Am considering wearing a helmet 24/7 till then. Don't they shave your head in stir anyway? Come 'n get me, coppers.

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    5. Trudye, for once I was happy that I live in a small place. Air conditioning those mansions like yours is really spendy!

      But, can you imagine life here in the summer without AC? I often wonder how people managed to work, sleep and, errrrr . . .how should I say this . . . beget children during a Southern summer.

      Cool breezes, Trudye,
      Jerrine

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    6. Fifi, to be on the safe side, let's take that half a Xanax, take a brisk but short walk outside (5 minutes about right for you?), so we can state truthfully that we've been out in the snow, and then we'll hit the lounge and lie like crazy. Maybe hit the spa, too. A good massage is particularly necessary after an arduous ski session.:-)

      Now, on to the important subject of hair. I had a few inches of mine cut off on Saturday, and they've talked me into a keratin treatment tomorrow evening in an attempt to tame it a bit. The stylist said, "it will change your life." (I just love it when he gets so dramatic, but if he's right, I'll put him in my will.) They did warn me that it will be straight as a string for the first three days until I can wash it. That will be a novelty for me, but I'll probably look like something that crawled out from under a rock.

      Anyone have any experience, helpful tips or hideous war stories about keratin treatments?

      And, sorry, MT. This thread has gone just a tad astray, but at least we are still on the subject of helmet hair!

      Best,
      Jerrine

      PS - I bet you look very charming with short hair, Fifi. But, I know what you mean. I get so exasperated with mine that I give them the chop order, and as soon as they're finished, I want my hair back again. Why is it that we can never be satisfied with our hair?

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    7. Not exactly a McMansion, Jerrine, just a big involved project! We are just all unpaid caretakers of our abodes!
      Some like it hot, but not I;-) I guess people just got used to those long, hot sultry summers! Thinking Liz Taylor from Cat on a Hot Tin Roof here for that sultry, hot mess look!
      About that hair...I have never had a Keratin treatment as my hair is board straight, but my friends who have had it done like it the first week then they realize their hair is dead and lifeless and never go back for another treatment! So be warned,Jerrine!
      Let us know what happens!
      Happy Monday and an early St. Patrick's Day cheer to all!
      Trudye

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    8. Yes, I took your warning to heart, Trudye, and did some research last night. Thank you again, Google! The majority of people seem to love it, but there are those who don't, as well. I think it depends on what brand and type they use and how proficient the person who applies it is. It don't have to worry on either of those scores, but I did postpone the appointment so I could have a good think on it. My research told me it's best to have it done at the same time the hair is colored, and that won't be until mid-May, so I can do more research and give it careful consideration.

      I'm so tired of it frizzing up, though, with even just a hint of moisture. And, since when do we have only a hint of that down here? It's usually a morass of humidity, and the air is so thick that you can cut it with a knife!

      I think I have to relocate, as I never had a bad hair day when I lived up north where killer humidity wasn't nearly a daily event.

      So, thank you for the warning. I'm sitting on the fence at this point (fence isn't all that comfortable either.)

      Hugs,
      Jerrine

      PS - MT, I'll gladly trade you your helmet hair for mine! I could throw in a few scarves to sweeten the deal.

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    9. Glad you decided to wait and research, although I know that fence is uncomfortable! Three friends of mine have been thru the Keratin thing. Two at a very expensive salon with a French trained stylist! The other was at a mid level salon. All had the same results...dull, lifeless hair. My BFF is one of the gals I am referring to. She has very curly,frizzy hair and struggles in our humidity! Months and months later she had to finally cut her hair pretty darn short to rid herself of the damage,no matter the number of expensive moisturizing treatments!

      Yes, my friend, do your homework ...please! Yes, this humidity is hell on the hair! The local weather even has a hair forecast for the day...seriously !
      Relieved hug,
      T

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    10. I sympathize, Jerrine! Although my hair has changed drastically over the years, for much of my life it was curly and frizzy - Hawaiian hair, I called it. The day blow dryers came on the market was the happiest day of my life! Good luck figuring out the keratin thing. I don't know anyone who's had it done. Sending sleek-hair vibes your way!
      Much aloha,
      Fifi

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  17. :-) You look très chic with helmet - and without!
    Happy to hear you recovered and had a good time after all.
    All the best xo :-)

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  18. Très chère Maitai

    Que se soit a la montagne ou a la plage tu est toujours aussi belle est chic .
    Pour se qui est de ton absence nous t'attendrons avec impatiente et nous savons que c'est pour la bonne cause .Car choisir et vendre de si beaux accessoires ne se fais pas dans un fauteuil Pense quand même a toi et continue de profiter de la vie Milles bises
    Myriam

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  19. Dear Manuela,

    I tried to click on "Reply" in your response to my delicious apple green dilemma, but my computer got hung up, so I try to reply to you via new post here.

    Thank you for suggestion of Musee Vivant! I know this design, and always coveted that bright cheery apple green (sort of like vert cru?), but at the time it was released, I had nothing I could think of that would coordinate...but now...

    I will Google it and see what's available--thanks for suggesting.

    So, is it accurate to say that your "vote" goes to coordinating wild colored shoes w/ scarf?

    And, oh, yummmm, shoes in pink, orange and yellow! You are a girl after my heart--colored shoes rule!!!

    Thank you dear Manuela!

    -sammie

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    1. Dear Sammie,

      You are welcome!
      Besides the 'Musée Vivant du Cheval - Chantilly', there is also another one that might inspire you: 'La Réale', in apple green, salmon, light lilac, pink ang dark grey.
      You could, for ex. wear dark grey clothes, the green shoes and a scarf with a bit of both colours. Well, just some sugestions. Spring hugs, Manuela xx

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    2. Hi Manuela!

      I looove La Reale!!! I don't think I've seen it in apple green, but I will 'Google' search on it and add it to my cut/paste page.

      And I love your suggestion to let the green shoes + green scarf be the 'stars' against a dark gray background. Wow, sounds like dusk, when lights are still glowing, and colors begin to fade.

      Thank you!!! (and enjoy your fabulous yellow, orange, pink shoes--so spring time fresh)

      xoxo
      sammie

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  20. Dearest Fifi,

    Thank you for your suggestion, and I especially take note of your taste (excellent, of course): "reference it subtly by using it as a minor color elsewhere, say in the print of a scarf," in lieu of larger pieces like bags, cardi's.

    Whew, you and Manuela have just saved me alot of money--I've completely eliminated a handbag in screaming green!!! Now I can buy about 12 H 90cm carres, or 4 GM mousselines!!! Pretzel non-logic!!!

    Also, I never thought of pairing bright green w/ just the right shade of non-Army khaki--thank you! I also loooove the concept of pale silver--it's like a shinier version of off white, which is the best canvas I have discovered so far. I will see what I own in pale grayish silver. uwwwwww, this will be delightful indeed.

    May I pencil your "vote" as selecting a scarf + coordinating color as an accent, not necessarily main color?

    Thanks for your advice!
    --sammie

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  21. Sammie, you are very welcome! There are several great ideas from the other ladies too, so you have lots to work with. I only wish we could all gather at your place, drink champers and help you accessorize! We will be there in spirit...
    Much aloha,
    Fifi
    P.S. - love the Steely Dan reference!

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    1. Dearest Fifi,

      Oh, wouldn't that be too much fun--gathering together, stopping by at all our abodes, scarf-tying/trying/coordinating, sharing and sipping a little bubbly too...

      Just for fun, I am compiling a short list of suggestions, and putting them in a "yes" and a "no" and a "maybe" column, for LeSalon ladies to peruse, and then submit it to MaiTai for a final selection. I should add a column for money spent or saved w/ each suggestion. I feel as if I've already saved 8K, just by discussing w/ y'all!!!

      Thank you for your thoughts--I sure relish the thought that y'all are here w/ me in spirit, playing away w/ kooky green shoes, searching for the right kooky green scarf (accent) and still lovin the shoes in the end! Sole sistas!

      (and while not intended, but thank you, I do see the SteelyDan reference!)

      xoxo
      sammie

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    2. Dearest MaiTai and LeSalon souls,

      Just thought to share w/ you a website that I found after having read through my LeMonde d'Hermes 'zine , SS2015. One of my favorite sections is "Recontres" where shop windows, special appearances/workshops are cataloged in photos. In this issue, you will find a most fascinating shop window done by Zim & Zou, called by LeMonde, "Fabulous Mr. Fox." For more detailed snapshots of this incredible work of paper and leather and exploding color, check out their website, http://www.zimandzou.fr/

      I'm sorry this is off-topic....just hadda share w/ you!

      xoxo
      sammie

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    3. Hi Sammie,

      Thought I would pop in to offer another suggestion for your green shoes! I agree with all of the other stylish swans in Le Salon to not try to match a bag to your shoes and avoid that Kermit look!
      Something easy to add,in case you do not find a scarf or want to wear a scarf always with your look, would be to look for an enamel bracelet,in either the click H or the printed. There are tons of beautiful greens for Spring either with green as a primary or secondary color! Also, H has some great pendant necklaces in the lacquered or horn that have green options,too! You have tons of options!
      So, happy pairing...you are all set for St. Patrick's Day!
      Trudye

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    4. P.S. Sammie...there are some great green leather bracelet options,too:-))

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    5. Hola Trudye!!!

      Thank you for an insightful and clever solution to the green shoes self imposed dilemma!!! I love it!

      Would you believe...I own 1 bracelet. Ya, it's true. What it means is that I really could use a 2nd bracelet, esp. in greeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeennnnnnnn!

      What a clever suggestion--it will be a much faster item to find, bcuz the scarf sorta has to be just right in every way before I decide. Thank you!!!

      May I put your "vote" as being: bracelet, pendant or other trinket?

      Blessing to you dearie, for a wonderful and luck-filled St.Paddy's Day too!

      (did you know that Patrick was actually the son of a wealthy English landowner, was kidnapped by the fighting Irish, brought back to Ireland to shepherd livestock, escaped back to his homeland, but later, longed to return to Ireland to tend to a much larger 'flock' of people--those mired in Pagan religions, etc. Well, Patrick did quite a deed. He was a Saint, and always will be in my mind.)

      Happy St.Paddy's Day to all the swans of Le Salon!

      And, to our dearest most lovely swan of Le Salon, MaiTai, take your time re-charging; we're busy preparing a little "ballot" to present to you, asking for your vote on what you think would coordinate best with a kooky kolored pair of shoes!

      xoxo
      sammie

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  22. Mai Tai. It's almost a conversation without you in this salon nowadays...
    Best regards
    Jeanne

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  23. Wow that looks like fun! I love the snow.
    I must confess I bought a cute Prada ski helmet a few years ago, which was lovely and warm with its own neck scarf attached.
    Best wishes for the forthcoming months of business and personal success!

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  24. The Salon is really agreeable, but we miss you Mai Tai.
    Kind regards
    Julie

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  25. My dearest darling rock chicks, lovely ladies, mischievous swans, rowdy little monkeys and spirited girls, you are the funniest, warmest and bestest sisters in the world!

    Your exchanges made me rolling on the floor with laughter (my favorite exercise of all), and I am so grateful to you for keeping the party going, and looking after the blog when I can’t. It means so much to me that the baby is in good hands!

    Thank you also for the lovely warm and kind comments, and sweet words of support and good wishes. Absolutely loved the green shoe discussion, and kudos to everyone for the great suggestions. Excellent tips also in the ski, helmet and hair department. The combined wisdom, camaraderie, wit and warmth makes LeSalon a fabulous and magical place of it’s own..biggest mwahs to you, my dearest friends <3

    In the last couple of days I’ve been concocting some style sheets.. obviously for sammie’s new shoes, but just in case, for the Big House too. I worry though if the authorities will grant us a special permission to set up a bar. Perhaps they could just give us a wing, and let us get on with it? Apart from bringing our H, we also need rock band gear. Here come the Jail House Swans!

    Have a most happy weekend everyone, and a wonderful start into spring xxx

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  26. Dear Mai Tai, As always thanks for sharing those delighted photos. It's quite spectacular. Hope you have now fully recovered from the stomach flu. Katherine xxx

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  27. Dear Mai Tai, waiting patiently for more news from you. Katherine x

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