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In my not quite 60 years I’ve had the good fortune to be able to live beside and learn from experts in their fields as I guide visitors through the culinary and visual delights of Provence (and with their tutelage, try my hand at a few of their specialties). Alongside my Provence Tours I’ve worked as a writer/journalist/translator, a cook, a wine pairing consultant, a pastry chef, a cheese-maker and goat herder, & currently, a chocolate maker.
I started offering cooking classes and culinary tours alongside my children's father out of our home in Arles (just as the internet came into its own) and later from my home in Avignon. Raising my sons in Provence I treasured a profession that allowed me to meet artisans of every sort, stumble upon jewels, and share the simple (and profound) joys of great meals, learning and conversation.
After 20 years in Provence, I took a hiatus in 2012 to start a goat farm in Upper Michigan with the goal of giving my French sons a touch of American life. Today, with my sons grown, I blend my passions: exploring the bounty of foods and artisans in my two homes of Provence and the North woods of Michigan and perfecting my chocolate skills.
I encourage you to consider my exclusive, small group Provence tours, (max 6 guests) designed to explore and relish the special places, foods and people of the region. I’m always open to designing a custom week or 10 day tour for you and your friends and/or family.
Should the interest strike you, my blog, An American in Avignon, is filled with stories of my adventures and Provence life. You might also check out my articles in Edible Grande Traverse, Michigan Uncorked and The American Wine Journal on Northern Michigan wineries, breweries, chefs, cooking with honey, and food insecurity. I've also translated a couple of cookbooks from French to English: Recipes from Provence and Recipes from the Aveyron.
During the Pandemic years I honed my chocolate and confection skills and now offer a range of hand-dipped chocolates seasonally [when not in France] during the winter holidays (I’ll ship anywhere in the continental US), and on my local summer markets in Bellaire and Boyne City, Michigan. I will also deliver to Traverse City. Check out my Chocolate page.
