Thank you 2011!
What a life-changing year! So much has happened and during certain moments, I honestly never thought I could get through 2011 without a major breakdown mais voilà, here I am and here are the highlights of my 2011:
Best decision:
- Of course, I have no idea what the future will hold but I feel, with every molecule of my being, that leaving Paris is and will always be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I have been unhappy for a long time and I have to take charge of what I feel/want, so this decision changes everything. Literally every single thing. I wholeheartedly believe that those changes will be for the better. My favourite quotation of all time has pushed me forward and I just know that everything will be okay: “Every man is his own ancestor, and every man his own heir. He devises his own future, and he inherits his own past”. H.F. Hedge
Favourite experiences:
- Easter Mass at Sacré-Coeur was absolutely amazing particularly since my mother was visiting. She doesn’t understand French but it is our favourite church and listening to the nuns sing and the children say “Happy Easter” in every language from Mandarin to English to Russian to German was amazing.
- Afternoon Tea with my friends at La Bauhinia at the Shangri-la, also known as the Shangri-wow. Such a diverse group of women and realise how lucky I am to have met each one of them. Gosh, I’ll miss them so much.
- Sharing good food, crying, laughing and having a merry old time at Le Meurice with someone I treasure: Madame Boisclair AKA the nicest person I have ever met.
- Snuggling up with my kitties – love them! Yes, crazy cat lady!
- Staying at Paris’ Plaza Athénée. This was a dream come true!
- Watching La Source at Palais Garnier (Opéra National de Paris). Not only was the production wonderful, to actually be inside one of my favourite buildings in the world, watching an opera was just spectacular. It was even more memorable as I had just moved out of my apartment and it was a much-needed moment of happiness. If you haven’t been here, you absolutely must!
Best view:
- Sitting in the Jules Verne restaurant (blog post to follow) located on the Eiffel Tower, overlooking the city and enjoying a good meal and a wee bit of bubbly. This was made even more special because I shared this moment with my dear friend Jessica. If you’ve ever had this view of Paris, you’ll appreciate how breathtaking it is. If you haven’t, get booking!
Best buy:
- When I bought my first pair of Repetto ballerinas, I swear my feet wanted to kiss me. They’re so comfy and just make walking a pleasure. In actual fact, my “au revoir Paris” present to myself will be a trip to Repetto next week to stock up on a few pairs. For a wee fraction of the price of designer ballerinas, these are a must and so much more comfy than Chanel ballerinas… Save those pennies!
Best meal:
- The best meal I had this year was without a doubt lunch at Camélia at the Mandarin Oriental with my lovely friend Stephanie. I wish I could relive this lunch over and over again.
Favourite blogs:
- LatteLisa is utter perfection. I actually don’t read this blog very often because it completely consumes me and nothing gets done. However, when I have two-three hours free, I sit with a pot of tea and a ridiculously large supply of chocolate and catch-up with the limitless beauty of the posts. Plus Lisa is lovely!
- Maya Beus needs no introduction – she did all the illustrations for my blog, is super talented and strikes me as being a very strong woman. Yes, I heart Maya!
- STYLE’N is Naina’s blog full of chic personal style, delicious Indian-inspired recipes, design and a wee peek into her fabulous life.
- Emily from Cupcakes & Cashmere never ceases to amaze me. I swear, everything from food to style to interiors just looks fabulous. I don’t follow any of the major bloggers except her, mainly because along with being super creative, she seems nice. She also has a book coming out, which I preordered from Amazon.
Favourite Tweethearts:
- @Ilana is so funny, gorgeous and when she’s not occupied with her crazy cat lady duties, she writes novels and tweets sarcastically, much to my pleasure. I once went on a date with a guy who informed me that my sarcasm wasn’t very becoming. I suggest he avoid Ilana.
- @3smallapples can usually be found sporting a new cardi, eating a crunchie and desperately trying not to murder her work colleagues, all to amusement of the Twitterverse. Plus she has to most hilarious ‘About‘ page ever.
Favourite beauty products:
- NARS ‘Mascate’ matt lipstick
- Bioderma créaline solution micellaire
- Sanoflore mattifying moisturiser
Best advice:
“Do what is right for you” – one very simple piece of advice, but it led to me making some major decisions and putting me on the right path.
How about you, what have been the highlights of your year?
So, I’m ending this year by embracing the positives and looking forward to what is sure to be an amazing 2012! As Mark Twain said “There is no sadder sight than a young pessimist”.
Thank you for reading – I so enjoyed reading your comments over the last year. See you in 2012 and a very Happy New Year to you all!
I always feel a *wee* bit like a stalker when I’m the first to leave a comment haha. In my defense it’s mainly because of the time zone difference!
What a year eh?! Mine hasn’t been filled with the same highs and lows as yours but it has definitely been a life changer. Moved appts, travelled Australia and Hawaii, wrote a physio exam at home before realizing I didn’t want to go back for a long while and, last and most importantly, was introduced to this world by you! Stumbling upon this blog has definitely been something that’s changed my life and opened up all new possibilities and people to meet and friends to make.
I am so very much looking forward to finally meeting you in person (after harassing you for 8 months I’m sure you’re looking forward to the face-to-face tell off hahaha) and I cannot wait for what 2012 has in store! My trip, among other things, but also my plans to leave Australia and move to the UK for a year will be amazing!
Cannot wait for your Jules Verne post either! The pictures you posted are amazing and your cats are gorgeous (wish I could have some but can’t in this appt and not until I stop travelling).
P.s. I may not have stylish enough winter shoes for my trip and hence, have to wear not fully broken in boots every day but as soon as I land in Paris, I am getting myself at least 1 pair of Repettos!!
P.p.s. That man who didn’t like sarcasm would most certainly have not liked me either! Sarcastic people are my type of people!
I wish I could convey how grateful I am for such a wonderful comment, even if you are a stalker! Actually, having a stalker means that I’ve finally ‘made it’. Okay, let the stalking continue! Hehe
Over champagne and scones, you’ll have to tell me everything! I’m so glad, flattered and amazed that my little ole blog has had such a positive impact on you and your life. This is seriously the most amazing comment ever. Thank you Sarah!! I still have about 80 Paris-related things to blog about but this next week is impossible – so busy. Jules Verne really is as fab as you imagine, private lift et al! Did you think about opening a Tumbler?
IThe people need to see your once-in-a-lifetime experience.You know what I think Sarah? I think that you will be yet another woman to prove that Canadians really are the nicest people on earth, and I cannot wait to meet you. Have a wonderful New Year and whilst I know you’ve already packed (don’t deny it missy), get ready for the trip of a lifetime.
x
PS – you need comfy shoes for all the walking, don’t forget that!
PPS – still need to get back to you re the spa. Haven’t forgotten.
I applaud you! Making these decision is always hard but you rose above it and did it anyway.
The very, very best you.. BRAVO.
Oh Pat, thank you so much for your words of encouragement. My biggest fear in life is ending up full of regrets. I don’t want to take that road. I bear that in mind when making major decisions. So far, it has worked out for me. It isn’t easy but nothing worthwhile ever is.
Milla,
You are so correct..want NO regrets!!!! AND.. You won’t. I may be in London in February.
Would love to have lunch if we both have the time!!
The BEST to you!
Happy New Year Pat! London in February: yes, yes and yes!! That would be fab! xx
xoxoxo…:):):)!!!!
What a wonderful post Milla. I expect this year in Paris will have changed you more than you realise right now, and I am full of admiration for you taking charge of your life and making the changes that feel right for you. I have enjoyed your blog this year and all the Paris moments you’ve shared. I really liked your post and pictures of Versailles, that sticks out for me from 2011 on notjustanother…
I have so many highlights this year in my move to NYC it is hard to pick just one, but I have a very fond memory of standing on the floor or Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park, with the salt ground laid out in-front of me, the intense heat around me and the mountains in the distance. Amazing.
I look forward to reading your adventures in 2012!
Thank you SOTC, what a nice comment! Versailles was amazing and really puts the affluence of the times in perspective. Can you imagine if that was your garden? Wow!
Loved your US roadtrip, so much fun. That pic in the red skirt with the desert behind you is probably one of my favourite – very editorial like
See you in 2012 and all the best!
x
BTW, You look marvelous! Haven’t had time to read all your post lately, I too am going through some transitions. Are you and your entire family moving back to UK?
Blushing over here, thank you so much! Good luck with your transitions – always a tough experience but stay focused on knowing that things will be better. I’m moving with my cats
lovely! wishing you all the best for you big move & new live back in London, sweets! And who knows we might be in the same city sooner then you think …
Rooting for a big life change myself, have my fingers crossed!
Would be wonderful to finally meet in person as it hasn’t worked out in Berlin.
Always enjoy reading and looking at your experiences is the most romantic city of the world ‘Paris’ .. hope you will still come back for a visit, at least for Paris Fashion Week, that is!
Move forward and don’t look back! Do your thing, cheri .. you can make it happen! ok, now I sound like a motivation Guru of some kind! LOL
Looking forward to Tweeting and commenting and just chitchatting with you next Year 2012! lots of xoxo
Cam
I’ll be back for the Vogue Bar, don’t you worry!
Cam moving to London gets a major thumbs up from me – I approve! Do it already – there are so many opportunities for people as talented as you. I need a lovely motivation guru in London!
How do you plan to celebrate NYE?
xx
Milla, What an amazing year! I love the Hedge quote too. It definitely makes you examine your own life and take responsibility for it. Sobering and yet filled with possibility. Your blog posts and photos are so vivid I can almost picture myself there. Need to get back soon, but to stay for a longer period of time. May need to get tips. Yes, Repetto’s are the perfect ballet flat. Best in 2012!!
Thank you so much for your comment. I’m so happy you enjoy my blog and photos. Feel free to ask for any Paris tips, happy to help! The quote is so powerful because as you said, it makes you take responsibility for your own life. I find it very empowering as it is my life and given how blessed I am, it would be wrong not to dive into the endless possibilities of happiness and fulfilment.
All the best for 2012!
Lovely, Milla, I wish you an even more amazing 2012!! Looking back on 2011, you had such an interesting year, full of new experiences, and I very much enjoyed reading along. I applaud you for your courage in making big changes as well. London calls!
xoxo
Kate, you’re such a good friend and yay, we finally get to meet in the Great White North in 3 months time! Thanks for being so supportive with everything. Congratulations on your blog for 2011 and cannot wait to read more from you.
PS – you do realise that you’re going obligated to write a ‘what to wear in Canada in March’ post!
xx
What an amazing year you’ve had! Because of your wonderful blog I already feel like I was with you in some of these places … I’m still dreaming about Plaza Athénée, sigh!
I think 2012 back in the UK will be full of adventures (Paris isn’t going anywhere).
Thank you for the wonderful LatteLisa praise *blush*. I wasn’t expecting to find my blog on your 2011 list.
Happy New Year!
I returned home a short while ago, from the Plaza Athénée incidentially (oh the cakes…), reread my blog post and thought ‘that doesn’t sound like a breakdown-inducing year’. The reality is that my personal life may not be perfect, but Paris has been crazy fun this year. I feel so blessed to have had such experiences and that you enjoy reading about them just blows my mind.
Your blog is fab, love your attitude towards life and food and cannot wait to meet you in Antwerpen.
Happy 2012 Lisa!
x
Milla, I am so impressed with your plans, the changes you have set in motion, and your honesty on the blog. I am glad to have seen some of your adventures in 2011 (and met you!), and I can’t wait to see what 2012 has in store for you.
PS, glad you got to the Jules Verne. It is a wee bit touristy but heavens, the views. It just can’t be beat!
Have a happy and healthy NYE!
Bonne année Lani ! You’re very sweet, thank you! It was such a pleasure to meet you over ridiculously delicious goodies at Ladurée. I think this year is going to be full of adventure, and I cannot wait to see what your year has in store either!
Wishing you all the best!
Milla
xx
I Love the first photo of you Milla. You look so happy. I am so proud of you for how you have handled yourself and your honesty and friendship this year. I really hope we get to meet in real life in 2012! M xox
Oh Michelle, that made me cry! Thank you so very much for your support. Tough year but life goes on, right? Onwards and upwards as my mother says. I cannot wait to finally meet you!
Here’s to the B bod of 2012
xx
WOW, what an in depth and inspiring post, Milla!!! Got so much to comment that i don’t even know where to start! lol. But first things first, I meant to ask you but kept forgetting – you’re leaving Paris?!!?!? Im not sure of the reason but whatever it is, i wish you all the best in your future. I’m sure you thought it out well and clear and sticking to your guts is the best at times!!!Are you planning to go back to good old London?=) I surely miss it dearly!
I love that photo of you and the x’mas tree, the goldish lighting looks soo fairytale like! And what can i say?Opéra National de Paris?!?!!? Omg, i love that building and took so many pics of it, day time, night time, special effects, when i went to Paris. It looks sooo royal and sooo overwhelming, kinda takes your breath away that kinda thing;)
So funny when i read the part about you and your mom going to Church and she doesn’t understand French. Not sure why, but i can just imagine you two there and listening gracefully to the nuns sing in French. It seems so cute!!!=D
I’ve not been to Jules Verne restaurant but i would love to go try it out one day. As for bloggers, i follow Emily as well, and her blog is soo inspiring and yes, she actually does seem genuinely nice,hehe.
I hope you had a very merry christmas and a happy new year Milla!!! I wish you nothing but the best for 2012!!!!=D May it be a new start with a fresh new Milla!!! Not that there’s anything wrong with you now, but you get what i mean right? lol…
Btw, will you be in Paris for NYE? If so, hope you have a fab one while you’re still there, have it the Parisian style;-)
Lastly, thanks a mill for sharing with us your Parisian lifestyle via Notjustanothermilla – it’s been a glam, fun, interesting, inspiring, and pleasant journey and i look forward to more!!!
Cinz
Merci Cinz, that’s just so nice of you! Yes, I leave Paris this week. Back to London but who knows where life will take me. I’m open to the possibilities. I’ve been thinking about it or months – it’s a major decision. It feels right.
Oh, that pic was taken at my leaving tea at the Mandarin Oriental. It was a wonderful afternoon. I’m so happy you’ve been to Palais Garnier, amazing isn’t it? Many places either look better in the day or night, but this building is constantly wow, wow, wow. I take a pic every time I pass it so yes, I have about 300 images of the same building. Hehe
It is so hard to believe that this was a place where people would socialise, almost like a club. The good ole days indeed! Did you visit Sacré-Cœur? Jules Verne was great for the experience and killer views. The food was too expensive for what it was though…
Thank you for visiting and sharing your views with me. I really appreciate it Cinz.
All the best for 2012!
Milla
x
Oh my what can I say, I already sad it several times. NJAM, is definitely one of the best blogs in blogworld. Wishing you all the best for 2012 Milla.
Lovely to read about your favorites too.
(btw still waiting on the follow up of miss Alt, or am I wrong? you’re busy I know, I just have to be patient).
Have a good NYE!!
Audreyx
Happy New Year! What a compliment Audrey – thank you so much! I hope I’ll be able to keep it up in 2012…
Yes, I have to follow-up Madame Alt with Madame Roitfeld
That will come later this month – so, so much to get done with my move but fear not, I haven’t forgotten.
xx
Always enjoy reading your posts Milla.
I had a full year with happy moments in it but with a lot of anxiety too.
Thinking over it makes me realize that there is no point
in worrying about things that will come-just live what we have now.
If we don’t appreciate what we have we can never be happy!!!
I thank you for all the positive thoughts that you gave me with your posts
and I wish you luck and happy moments for 2012…
Popi
xxxxx
Happy New Year Popi! Thank you for your comment. I totally agree – one has to stop and appreciate life because there is nothing to gain from worrying. I believe in taking control of one’s life but also letting some things just play out. This year I learnt to be less reactive; often things that evoke strong immediate reactions calm down after a couple of days/weeks/months and you realise that everything will be okay.
All the best for 2012 Popi!
xx
Oh, what a wonderful year in Paris! I’m really going to miss your Paris adventures!
However, if your heart really wants to return to London, who can stop you? Looking forward to see what will Milla do next in London
There will be plenty of adventures in London and I cannot wait to share them.
Happy New Year Aggie!
x
What a year 2011 was for you Milla! Quite tough but you seemed to have learned so much about yourself and explored all the many refined joys Paris has to offer. All the best for 2012: bonheur, argent, santé
Looking forward to hearing about your experiences in London!
A year of self-discovery, wonderful friends and the best of Paris. I cannot really complain. Very happy to have met you this year. All the best for your fabulous life in NYC and especially with your new connection
Lady! I’m not necessarily a long time reader, but I just wanted to tell you that one doesn’t need a long time to know that you are a class act. I love your witty writing and your pictures; visiting your blog is always like a breath of fresh air. You are a testament to living well and appreciating the finer things in life. You exude beauty and decorum. I am excited to catch up with you in London!
Oneika, aren’t you sweet! Thank you so, so much, I really appreciate your words. I cannot wait to catch up with you over tea and hear all about your adventures. I don’t think I know anybody who has travelled as much as you.
Milla, we have lost touch and what a pity. You have already taken the first step…and such a courageous one…into the great unknown…but with that leap there is always a net waiting for you. You are already on your way lady. I read this recently and it touched me…I send it now to you.
“Life is full of surprises and serendipity. Being open to unexpected turns in the road is an important part of success. If you try to plan every step, you may miss those wonderful twists and turns. Just find your next adventure,do it well, enjoy it, and then think about what comes next.”-Condoleeza Rice
Thank you Opal – really good quote!
I heard an interesting quote the other day Milla…the path of least resistance can lead to a minefield. You’re doing the right thing honey!
cupcake
xo
Thank you!
OMG you are so sweet to list me as one of your favorite blogs…really? Seriously you made my day Milla. Thank you and a very Happy New Year to you
xoxo, Naina
Yes, really!
Happy New Year Naina!
And I really love reading about your experiences in Paris this past year too. What an amazing opportunity to have lived there. Maybe we will meet one day in London!!!
That’s the way I see it as well: an amazing opportunity. London is the next step and I am so excited. Yes, we should definitely try to get together there.
We need a champagne tea to celebrate your return!!! Can’t wait!! xx
Now I remember why I like you! Looking forward to seeing you soon! x
I love you Milla! I have no doubt that 2012 is going to be full of amazing things for you!
And I hope that meal at Camélia is merely a premonition to all the wonderful things you’ll be enjoying in the year to come. I’m so happy and proud of you setting out on this new adventure to do what is right for you! Happy New Year Beautiful!!
I love you too Stephanie and really miss you! I feel so blessed to have meet such amazing people and despite the negative experiences, I remain grateful to Paris for putting me in touch with such phenomenally fabulous people. You’re going to have to stay in Europe missy…
See you very soon.
xx