I must admit that I have been in somewhat of a fragrance slump lately. I still enjoy reading reviews and entering discussions on some of my fellow bloggers' sites about the latest in the world of perfume, but I would find myself going without scent for days. I think I was just recharging my olfactory battery...

So I was surprised when I went to Sephora yesterday and wandered into the fragrance section to test their wares. I came across Guerlain's Figue Iris from their Aqua Allegoria collection.

The bottle was the first thing that called to me. Simplistic, yet opulent looking, I picked up Figue Iris. Figs are my favorite fruit and I have enjoyed iris scents like Prada's Infusion d'Iris, so I thought I'd give it a try. I was skeptical, however, as I have yet to find a fig fragrance for the body that speaks to me (I'm still not a fan of L'Artisan Parfumeur's Figure- although I haven't given up on it yet).

Let's just say that I got my proverbial "groove" back with this scent. Light and effervescent (perfect for one who is slowly entering back into the fragrant world), Figue Iris has a succulent fruity and powdery note. It is green and fresh and feels like the perfect fragrance for the emerging Spring.

In fact, I'm so used to not wearing scent lately that I forgot I had it on throughout the day and wondered what that 'heavenly aroma' was... I think that is always a good sign!

Guerlain's Figue Iris contains notes of Fig, Iris, Vanilla, Vetiver, Bergamot and Pink Grapefruit

Figue Iris can be purchased at: www.sephora.com

What a wonderful day to be alive...

A day of hope and new beginnings...

A proud day in American history...

Congratulations Mr. President.

Last night I went to see Revolutionary Road, the film directed by Sam Mendes and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. I must admit, I was terribly excited to see this film. Not only do I love both leading actors but this is the first time they have reunited on screen since Titanic, over a decade ago. Also, Winslet just won the Golden Globe for best actress for her portrayal of April Wheeler, a truly desperate housewife on the edge.

The film chronicles the marriage of Frank and April Wheeler, a young suburban couple living in Connecticut in the 1950's. Frank works in a cubicle at a steady office job, and April is an aspiring actress and a stay at home mom who watches over their two children. Their relationship is clearly disturbed, however, and they decide they want more from life than the typical suburban cliche that they are living. So they create a grand scheme to quit their jobs and life in Connecticut and move to Paris. The film follows this couple through their fights, infidelities, romances, scheming and more.

The film, for me, had its high and low points. Both performances by DiCaprio and Winslet were staggeringly good. There were also some stellar supporting characters that were thoroughly interesting. Unfortunately that was where my praise ends. The constant arguments by Frank and April were draining and left me feeling without compassion for their situation. Perhaps the film was too realistic for me- I think I wanted something more. I have heard that the original book by Richard Yates is a masterpiece, so I think rather than revisit the film in the future, I shall read the book.

I don't recommend giving the film a miss all together, however, as Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio have exhilarating chemistry. They truly are first class movie stars of the old school variety and even through the frustrating plot, the duo shines like a gem.

If you have seen the film, I would love to hear what you thought of it...

Image courtesy of: www.dailystab.com

Over the next three months I am going to be undertaking a challenge- to finish the first draft of my novel. This isn't necessarily a New Year's Resolution... just something I've been wanting to do for at least 10 years. And the time has come.

So over the next three months my posts on The Daily Connoisseur will be less frequent (probably down to one a week). I want to thank you in advance for your understanding and I hope that you will stay with me on this journey!

Now on to the life changing stuff...

Over the Christmas break I read one of the best books I have ever encountered on the subject of procrastination entitled, The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. This book, aptly described by Esquire as "A vital gem... a kick in the ass", is the ultimate handbook for anyone that has ever wanted undertake something- be it writing a novel, starting a business or a new exercise routine. The book strictly addresses resistance, perhaps better known to us as procrastination.

Pressfield, author of such bestsellers as: The Legend of Bagger Vance, Gates of Fire, Tides of war and Last of the Amazons put together The War of Art at just 165 pages- each page contains a major eye opener. The book is broken down in to three sections entitled:

Resistance: Defining the Enemy

Combating Resistance: Turning Pro

Beyond Resistance: Higher Realm

Pressfield describes resistance as a repelling force- one whose aim is to "shove us away, distract us, prevent us from doing our work". With each section of the book, he defines it, he personifies it and he gives us the inspiration to combat it, warrior-style.

For all of us that have ever experienced resistance (and I don't know anyone who hasn't) this book is the ultimate guide that can help you live and realize your dream- no fear necessary. For the next three months I am going to be referring to it religiously... I know I'll need it!

The War of Art can be purchased at: www.amazon.com

To all of my wonderful readers and fellow bloggers, I am wishing you a very happy new year full of joy, good health and prosperity!

It was a quiet New Year's eve for me, spent at home with family. A healthful and delicious dinner was made... followed by a sinful dessert of crepes and ice cream... lots of laughter and the Ab Fab marathon on BBC America.

Today is a new day, a new year and I am going to go celebrate by going on a hike with husband and dog...

I hope your New Year's day is full of joy...


Image courtesy of: www.tvgasm.com

Until next time...