Hi Reader,

Three years in, I'm discovering the difference between loving a culture and living in it.

Paris, ah Paris. I moved back here 3 years ago, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, confident to take on my new world and life. I mean, I spoke pretty fluent French, knew which utensil was used for what course or animal/vegetable/other, and I already had French friends. It was an easy slam dunk, right?

Omg, so wrong.

As a Feng Shui consultant, I've spent years helping people understand how their surroundings affect their energy. But living in Paris has reminded me that even an environment we love can exhaust us.

And that's something worth considering Reader, wherever you live.

My love affair with Paris began when my cousins introduced me to classic French movies on VHS tapes. Small Change, The 400 Blows, Love on the Run. Who were these elegant people? Why were they so sulky and brooding? What "je ne sais quoi" did they have that I didn't? I was hooked.

Fast forward a few French amants and years later, I enrolled in my college's Paris study abroad program. What was supposed to be 6 months turned into 18. I was lonely and miserable, but still adored this darn city. My dream of returning never died.

And here I am, 30, ahem, odd years later.

Last month, I "celebrated" living in Paris for 3 years. I'm still in awe of the beauty, culture and architecture, but I'm also navigating the French healthcare system, the local post office, and dining hours. I now regularly eat dinner at 20h or 21h, aka 8 or 9pm. So late for my little American belly!

I love the quieter tempo of France and the quirkiness of Parisian streets and the variable French "humeurs," aka moods. But what I hadn't anticipated was how much energy this new environment would demand.

Continue reading here.
​

P.S. Feng Shui Friday reminder - now EVERY TWO WEEKS! ​
​

In Gratitude,

If you're looking to create a space that nurtures you, aligns with your energy, and moves all the energy – not just furniture – head over to my YouTube channel for Feng Shui inspiration. And while you’re there, be sure to subscribe so you never miss a Feng Shui boost!

Personal note from Susan:

A much needed nature break

Well those two weeks sure did fly by! I was able to finish some fun projects -- AstroStrategy sessions, virtual Feng Shui consultations and setting up some in-person consultations when I'm back in NYC.

I have been dealing with some medical issues (I guess that comes with age right?) and handling those one by one. Nothing serious but logistically and administratively annoying, you know what I mean? Because of that I've been feeling a bit more tired lately. Of course when I found slices of energy, I fit in a very good spicy margarita, some wonderful contemporary music at Radio France and rounded my time out with a couple of days in La Baie de Somme and saw some seals. What a lovely getaway and very much needed.

Although I absolutely love working with clients remotely all around the world, I am really missing the added magic of in-person work. Being able to help clients declutter or clean out what no longer serves or matches who they are today pumps me up. Or the excitement of sitting with them on their bed or couches to help them determine how they feel. Love that. I am really looking forward to doing some more in-person work locally and abroad as Feng Shui Creative creeps into its 20th year in 2027. Yup.

So stay tuned for some new and fun things coming up and until then, remember to pay attention to your energy no matter where you are and adjust accordingly. Take breaks when needed. The change of seasons is no small thing.

I always look forward to sharing with you and am grateful for this community!

I help you use Feng Shui as a strategy for transformation, not just design. We shift your energy, refine your environment and bring your next chapter into focus. ​ ​This isn’t Feng Shui as you know it. It’s how you create your future, on purpose. Curious? Let’s connect. CONTACT ME!

Follow us on social media!

​​​