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lately, some facts have pushed me to reconsider my love for film.

facts like:
one, a conversation with Guillaume.
two, the delivery of TZ polaroid film.
three, the abusive use of my pentax me super.
four, my upcoming-birthday wishlist: a mamiya rz 67.

ever since my playground friend Anne lent me her polaroid camera one day when we were running around stables – back in the mid-nineties – I knew I was holding something special.

something that could capture moments of life. something that could make me see the beauty of the world we live in. something that could stop the time.

at the time, the standard in photography was film. film that produced flawless results. today, it’s the same with digital cameras. when you shoot you know what you’re going to get.

but to me photography is different. my daily life is as imperfect as imperfect can be. and whenever I collect a moment through my camera, I want it to be a reflect of who I am.

over the years, this collection has grown into a book that could define me. moments to be remembered, happy or sad. with an occasional light leak or unexpected blur.
it’s those same imperfections that connect everything. they act as a reminder of how fragile the time that goes by is.

and this is why I fall for old cameras, knowing they will render my life as it is. imperfect ordinary made less ordinary – not to say – magical.

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the planned unwinding took place sooner than expected as I woke up early this morning only to find myself too sick to go to work.

in between naps, I found the time to take a couple of polaroid pictures, experimenting with this film.
having removed the ND2 filter of the electric eye ages ago, I had to make up for it by using sunglasses. and it’s quite tricky. I need a new filter.

the sound of the shutter had an instant effect on me. it makes me happy. I love film. and polaroid cameras.

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this monday has been tough on me despite a somewhat late – eight am – wake-up time, a bright sun, and a walk through hyde park with Guillaume.

to be completely honest and accurate, I am exhausted.

quite happily, I found a moustache on the sidewalk. reminding me of my best friend Anna-Sarah, and the amazing times we spent together laughing, making things, and eating. I miss her.

enjoy this last winter week. on my side of the world, it’s pretty much going to be about slowing down and making the most of every moment.

one remedy: the stash of polaroid film that got delivered today. I’m thrilled! it’s almost been ten months since I last had some on my hands.

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flowers on a sunny London morning.

once again, the clouds have disappeared, and I have the feeling that today is going to be lovely.

it’s mothering sunday here, so for lunch we’re offering a special menu at the restaurant. and the dessert is deliciously simple: an apple tarte fine with vanilla icecream.

bonne fête maman! and have a nice sunday. x

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green seems to be everywhere. from the onion bulb that has started germinating, to the matcha green tea brioches that are currently rising slightly more than I expected in the oven.

spring is close. and I’m excited.

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goodbye little floating boat. you now have a new home. hope you like it as much as I do. x

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I spent most of my night analysing the folding techniques of japanese pastries since I’ve planned to make matcha brioches tomorrow.

quite obviously, by looking at the gorgeous blogs, I had a sudden urge to redesign mine; the japanese way. an old book, a couple of framed pictures, and lots of white.

I haven’t put it on yet because I need your advice. do you like it?

ps. after many minutes spent doodling the folding process, I realised it was a simple tour double. just like for puff pastry!
at least I have a cute illustration.

edit. thanks for the advices. Laura you’re just so right. I need to keep the paper boat. I didn’t know how to include it, but hopefully it works this way:

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Guillaume and I share this thing for unusual foods. we love to explore different flavours and textures.

whenever we go to china town, we can be spotted in the streets, sharing a weird shaped pastry.

our latest crush being a green tea moon cake.

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just like the first picture of a roll, the very last can offer some surprises.

standing in front of a photo lab, not knowing what to photograph to finish my roll and get it developed, I looked up, and snapped this building, which structure I love.

things happened in such sort that there wasn’t enough space for this picture; hence the overlap with the previous one, and the redish line on the far end.

instant love. not to mention that small spot.

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it’s been such a sunny week in London. and all the birds of the serpentine river seemed excited, even when the sun set.

today, I’m inspired by this blog redesign. and this amazing list of kitchen utensils.

today, I need to go to work soon. write my book for an hour or two. take pictures of the desserts we make at the capital.

what are your plans for this monday?