Stories Collected While Living in France

French la Vie

The Dare and the Aim

                           

This blog was created on a dare, November 29th 2005, after having lunch with fellow blogger Kristen, "French Word A Day." Kristen, daringly encouraged me to write about my, (as she called it, "Tongue in Cheek,") collection of French flea market finds.

My tales have been woven from my experiences of living and loving France. Mostly stories collected at the, marché aux puces, (flea market.) Tales of linens, letters, vintage scraps, and moments of these worn true objects whispering in my ear.

One year and counting, everyday I have taken a photo and scribbled something on this blog; no matter where…..on a cruise, visiting my family, whether I was as sick as a dog, or in foreign country. No matter if I had sad news, nothing to say, or no time to write…even when my camera broke and the keyboard was in Greek. It hasn’t been easy, but it has been an amazing adventure! I am happy to say that I aimed at the dare that Kristi gave me, and hit the bull’s eye! I did it, and it has given me a brand new world!

Thank you for your steadfast friendship, your encouragement, inspiring comments (beautiful post in themselves,) and most importantly the healing I have felt in being myself in front of you.

photo: An 16th century arrow, so happy it is dancing the twist!

Comments

69 responses to “The Dare and the Aim”

  1. Lisa

    Congratulations, dear Corey.

    Reply
  2. Jeanne

    Your words and photographs are magic. Thank your friend for the dare. I double dare you to keep it going forever.
    Love you Sugar Plum
    Love Jeanne

    Reply
  3. cruststation

    Congratulations on achieving one year anniversary with your daily inspiration through good times and bad, your perseverance, determination and inpiration is an encouragement to me and all who reads this blog. I am so glad you took the challenge and through it I made a friend 🙂 *love*

    Reply
  4. miss*R

    Corey – my life is so much, well , so much MORE since stumbling into your blog a year ago. blessings & much love to you, my friend xoxo

    Reply
  5. Renee

    I’m so glad you took that dare Corey! Thank you for bringing so much joy to my day, whether you are happy or sad, wistful or full of cheek:)
    I imagine myself coming along on your flea market jaunts to touch, taste, listen, look and seize the day.
    Thanks again. You’re a sweetheart.

    Reply
  6. Penny

    Happy Anniversary! I know I’ve told you this many times before — but you start my morning with such an abundance. Sharing your pictures, your beautiful thoughts and your days has been a special gift. Thank you!!

    Reply
  7. meredith

    Congratualtions, this calls for a celebration!

    Reply
  8. candy

    I’ve so enjoyed visiting here and will continue to do so. I love what you’ve done. I love your images and your words. Please don’t stop. Happy anniversary!

    Reply
  9. blackbird

    Happy Anniversary my dear!
    You have brought new color to each day…and are wonderful inspiration.

    Reply
  10. Shannon

    Happy Anniversary Corey!!
    I’m so happy I found you 🙂 All those months ago I knew that this blog would take off and you’d have tons of admirers 🙂
    I love the theme you’ve created here. Each morning, I come here as it’s my little cozy oasis for me to gather inspiration to start my day.

    Reply
  11. Sheila

    Yours was the first blog I found, and commented on, for many months before I began my own. Thank you for sharing your unique and insightful views on life
    and Happy Anniversary.

    Reply
  12. Paris Parfait

    Corey I’m so pleased you’ve achieved your goal – I never doubted for a minute that you wouldn’t, as you can do anything you decide to do. You have enriched all our lives with your lovely photographs and thoughtful musings. Merci bien, mon cher ami! xo

    Reply
  13. dkmp9293

    CONGRATULATIONS for achieving this goal! I remember talking with you about it when I last saw you–I could have talked for hours more–you were so enthusiastic! I’ve enjoyed reading your blog every morning and look forward to reading more!

    Reply
  14. Anna

    Hearfelt congratulations and gratitude for your daily food for thought, nourishment for spirit….

    Reply
  15. Di Overton

    Happy Anniversay Corey and don’t you dare stop. As you know you have inspired me and no doubt numerous others. Good Luck in the coming year.

    Reply
  16. Acey

    What a wonderful leap of faith you took and how strong and wondrously your Wings of Love have grown in this time!
    We are more than indebted – we remain enthralled.

    Reply
  17. Jos

    No, no…Thank YOU, Corey.

    Reply
  18. Ulla

    Oh Corey, and what a year its been!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY ‘TONGUE IN CHEEK’!!! What new and exciting adventures and tales await us? You have become a master storyteller in words and photos – but then I am guessing you were before the bet too! I for one am delighted for the dare, and send huge cyber THANKS to Kristin for spurring you on! You GO GIRL!!!

    Reply
  19. Darlene

    I think you are more a blessing to all of us than we are to you! Thanks for inspiring us to see the beauty that surrounds us!

    Reply
  20. mary

    I’m just sorry it took me the better part of that year to find you. Love your blog and presentation.

    Reply
  21. Dawn

    It has been a most enjoyable journey, dear Cor-ay…
    xo

    Reply
  22. Darla

    Happy Blog Birthday. We should have a little cupcake with one candle so you could make a wish.
    Your blog is a treat!
    Darla

    Reply
  23. Brother Mathew

    Great job Sister Corey!

    Reply
  24. swampgrrl

    that healing goes both ways, dear grrl!

    Reply
  25. stephanie s

    how wonderful for all of us that you don’t do anything in half measures. i am often inspired and always admire the way you write, your view of the world and your determination to be who you are… thank you, thank you, thank you for a fabulous year.

    Reply
  26. berrie

    I’ve said it before, & I’ll say it again YOU ARE VERY EASY TO BE A FRIEND TOO! I Thank You For writing! Your place is always a bright spot, a positive place,never negative or whiney…simply lovely…like you! I don’t always have time to post, but I do read ya everyday! Happy Anniversery chica! Please continue with it!! xo

    Reply
  27. MB

    Happy Blogday, dear Corey! I’m so glad you did it, and I’m hoping you will continue…?

    Reply
  28. Teresa Sheeley

    I haven’t been with you through your whole year of blogging, but when I stepped into your world, I was charmed by all that you see, and am so thankful that you share it your beautiful photography and words. It has brought me much enjoyment.

    Reply
  29. JO

    Your one of my favorite stops each day..happy birthday and many many more.

    Reply
  30. Heather

    Happy Blog-o-versary! You have a wonderful way of expressing yourself!

    Reply
  31. Nicole

    Happy Blogiversary!
    I’m glad your friend was “cheeky” enough to dare you. We have all benefited from your insight and beauty.

    Reply
  32. Belinda

    i have gained a lot of respect for those bloggers, that write daily posts. quite an accomplishment. i enjoy coming here for a visual treat and i enjoy your musings. félicitations et courage pour continuer!

    Reply
  33. annieelf

    Life would not be so sweet without you, Corey. Your daily blossoms are like 24 hour flowers with the hope and knowledge of yet another one we can all look forward to seeing.

    Reply
  34. tut-tut

    I may not respond every day, but I am inspired by your images and words!

    Reply
  35. carolyn

    Happy Anniversary, or Bonne Anniversare (is that right?) and THANKYOU for your oh so beautiful photographs and words.

    Reply
  36. –erica

    happy day corey! I’m so glad you share with us!

    Reply
  37. Britt-Arnhild

    GRATULERER MED DAGEN
    GRATULERER MED DAGEN
    gRATULERER KJÆRE COREY
    GRATULERER MED DAGEN.
    (Norwegian Happy Birthday) I am singing on top of my voice. Can yo hear me?
    Thanks you so very much for a wonderful year Corey, well, I have known you for about half a year I think. You have the most wonderful, hearty, charming, inspirational blog in the blog world. And you have been of immense inspiration for my writing and my photographing.
    I do hope that you will keep on for more years!

    Reply
  38. blueVicar

    A story about the stories…a meta-story in acknowledgement of your year of effort. Job well done! An achievement and a blessing…all in one. Not bad.
    Meilleurs voeux!

    Reply
  39. Catherine

    No – Thank you Corey – for a breath of fresh air everyday. Your words inspire and refresh me and the photos amaze me. Happy Blogging Birthday may there be many more to come.

    Reply
  40. Rich Buck

    Corey,
    I am so glad that you did start to blog – I get inspiration and happiness from you. Thanks for being there.

    Reply
  41. susanna

    Happy Birthday, Tongue in Cheek! You cheer up my day!

    Reply
  42. la vie en rose

    happy blogiversary! your words both here and in the comments you’ve left for me have been a true blessing. i’m so glad you took her up on the dare…

    Reply
  43. Star

    Many congratulations and fanfare on your day-to-day postings for an entire year! You have created a place where I feel welcome; you inspire me; you give me a moment of peace and serenity in my day. Thanks for sharing your treasures and talents with us. (And don’t get any ideas about stopping now that the dare has been met!)

    Reply
  44. Lorene.Silva

    Corey,
    Congratulations on the one year anniversary of your Blog. I have enjoyed it very much and keep up the good work.
    Lorene

    Reply
  45. Renee

    You have such a beautiful blog, and such inspiring thoughts. So pleased you started blogging a year ago and we can have a peek into your world. Stunning photos, and such lovely stories you have shared. Just gorgeous.

    Reply
  46. diana

    I guess we all owe Kristen a big HUG and a bottle of wine for bringing you to us
    I have been with you most of the year…. and I feel so lucky, thank you and congratulations ! ((HUGS)))

    Reply
  47. Blondie

    HA! I’ve been getting Kristin’s “Thrice weekly” emails containing the word a day for two years now and have been reading your blog for a month or so. I had no idea you two were connected!

    Reply
  48. patpaulk

    Corey, you have one of the most beautiful blogs I come to every day with anticipation of what gems in linen, this and that’s, and wonderfully written words will be waiting. Thank you!! Congratulations on making the mark!!

    Reply
  49. Shelley

    corey,
    Your blog is my first stop each morning and my last each evening.Thanks for your great way with words!I am very proud of you!!!!!(One year)Boy does time fly………

    Reply
  50. Lisa(oceandreamer)

    You dear Corey are a blessing and your blog always wonderous to behold. I am so glad you decided to create this space of honesty, truth, beauty and delight. Raising a toast to a long journey here!!
    Love and light,
    Lisa

    Reply
  51. juliehovik

    I will miss your blog, please don’t stop! Enjoy the moment!
    Tongue in CHeek responds:
    Hi Cousin Julie, (not the one who is Paris with My Oh la la,)
    I am not going to stop blogging. I might not post everyday though…time will tell. Thanks for your standing by me…

    Reply
  52. Cat

    Congratulations Corey. You took the challenge and came thru like a shining star. You have touched so many hearts with love and sparked many minds to think and dwell upon your words. Thank you!

    Reply
  53. annie lockhart

    hey corey…what do they say??? when the student is ready…the teacher appears…you have taught me through sharing…encouraged me with your love of beauty…the real-ness of life near(u.s.) and far(france) inspired me with your spirit…i have been amazed at what happens when a heart opens…the native americans say…listen with the ears of your heart…and that is exactly what i intend to do…you make that soooo easy here…love ya…annie

    Reply
  54. cityfarmer

    This is major…as I sip a champagne…more reads and comments than one can ever imagine…cheers..a toast to you and a year of ultimate inspiration…

    Reply
  55. deirdre

    I’m so impressed that you’ve posted every day for a year. I’ve only been here for seven months, but it’s become an important part of my life and I’m glad to have discovered you and the inspiration and thoughtfulness I find here each day. xoxo

    Reply
  56. pnardnmz

    so it is your blog-birthday.. one of these days..
    I saw on your profile it started on december..
    please let’s have a party..
    let’s have the most frivolous posts..
    (it will be easy to choose..because your posts.. long or short have always very important messages in them.)..
    and let’s party..
    my turkish blog was started on 25 November.. but I missed the birthday party.. because blogcu was on repair.. =(
    let’s party chez toi.. tell me the day I’ll bring the cake the wine whatever we need.. and stay and clean up after the party =))
    Tongue in Cheek responds:
    Hi Pinar, I signed up with Blogger in December, so I could leave comments on those who use Blogger. But I do not use blogger to post my blog. I have used TYPEPAD since I started in November.

    Reply
  57. Julie

    “Even in Greek,” You are amazing! Thank you for the inspiration your blog has given me.
    Tongue in Cheek responds:
    Julie,
    Even in Greek…when we were in Greece, I searched for a cyber cafe to post. The first few cafes I found, the keyboards had Greek letters! While searching for an English keyboard, I discovered many Greek shops and places, the adventure takes us far and wide, often down paths we would have never walked!

    Reply
  58. Tara

    Hi Corey,
    Thanks – *again* – for the loveliness of your blog, and your impressive execution of a year-long dare. It is a warm, beautiful, serene, and comforting place to visit.
    I hope that even though your ‘year’ is up, that you will continue! Even if it needs to be at a lesser pace.
    I feel priviledge to have ‘met’ you.
    Tara

    Reply
  59. constance

    Happy Birthday Corey,
    Thank you for what your effort has added to the world via the Blogosphere! And thank you for what you have added to my life. Your Beauty and creativity shines!

    Reply
  60. Carol

    Happy blogiversary dear Corey! I feel so lucky to have you in the blog neighborhood! Hugs xox

    Reply
  61. Peggi

    Hi Corey! I found your blog only recently from a link at Lesley Riley’s site. I have to tell you I’m so glad – I’ve loved France my whole life, have never been there, and so your blog is sort of a window into what life there is like. Thanks for sharing your stories, photos and words with us!!! ~ Peggi

    Reply
  62. susan

    ah, the last here… sob!
    well, you know that my good wihes for another wonderful loving year here with your words and photos will be top of this list!!!
    happy happy happy we met and thank you for your daily dose of corey each and every day!
    xoxo
    susan

    Reply
  63. Marilyn

    Happy Blogiversary! Blogging has ripened and enriched my life with each passing year…wishing the same for you.

    Reply
  64. louise

    Hi Corey,
    I too am very glad you took the dare!
    Cheers,
    lj

    Reply
  65. a true fan

    your blog reminds me everyday that there is so much more to life in my everyday existence, that the little things matter most of all… you have shown me how to find happiness in the simpliest things and so in doing i am a happy person again.
    thank you thank you thank you!!!!

    Reply
  66. Anonymouse

    HUMPH
    And I thought it was the 28th..no mo’ weekend posts I guess 🙁
    Well you made it! Did you pass the dare along 🙂

    Reply
  67. herhimnbryn

    Damn and blast I am so late!
    Congratulations Corey. Am in awe of your post a day.
    Thankyou for all the lovley comment you have left on my blog. Your words are always a flicker of sunshine from over the sea.

    Reply
  68. gracie

    Wow!!! Is Nov 29 your blogging anniversary?? mine too!!
    I’m sooo glad that you took the dare… your faithfulness through rain and shine is as inspirational as the words and photographs speaking your heart and soul. Thank you for bravely baring them… like a child playing on a beach, freely and without fear.

    Reply
  69. Marie-Noëlle

    Feeling so sorry for being cut off the net for so long and for missing this day!
    Quite a date as my daughter was 14 on the same day AND she is a Sagittarius !?
    Moreover, as she is in her early teens, she sometimes tries hard to twist us round her finger!!!
    Yes, she can be good at twisting and is always good at twittering (a real chatter box!)
    So your picture means a lot to me!!!
    Thank you and congratulations on your first anniversary as a blogger!
    MN

    Reply

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