Merci 2024 & What to Expect For 2025.

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Dearest friends,

As 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on what has been a truly eventful and rewarding year - both personally and professionally. Living back in Brittany, France, for almost 3 years now – a year and a half in our own cozy new apartment - I can genuinely say life here feels sweeter with every passing day.

This year brought so many cherished moments. In March, we ventured to Venice, Italy, and completely fell for its charm, the winding canals, the heavenly food and the warm-hearted locals. Then in July, I finally launched my Substack newsletter, a dream I had been holding onto for over two years. Taking that leap of faith was both thrilling and nerve-wracking, but connecting with so many of you here has made it incredibly rewarding. In August, we indulged in a sun-soaked escape to the Basque Country, soaking in its vibrant culture and cuisine. Then, this December, we savored a delightful weekend getaway in the enchanting Loire Valley. This is what I love about France and Europe: just a two-hour drive, and you can find yourself immersed in the unique charm and culture of a completely different region.

Now, as someone who has always struggled to stick with resolutions, I prefer to keep things simple for 2025. No grand plans, no lofty expectations—just a commitment to savoring life as it is: my husband, my dog, our home in the French countryside, and the fulfilling work of sharing recipes and stories with you. That said, I do plan to focus more on rest and self-care, which I’ve already started mapping out. Plus, there are a few exciting trips on the horizon, including one that ticks off a lifelong bucket list item (hint: it involves the Tour de France!). I can’t wait to share more of this with you!

Workwise, my goal for the new year is to deepen the connection I’ve began to forge with you through this newsletter. Writing to you on a personal level has been a joy, but I know I still have room to grow. Sharing more openly and vulnerably doesn’t come naturally to me, but I’m learning that the most compelling stories come from a place of honesty.

My vision for this space is to turn it into a candid diary of life in the French countryside—with all its joys, quirks, ups and downs, weekend getaways and everyday cooking. I want this to be a place where you feel at home and connected to the real rhythms of life in France.

And since we’re being more open and vulnerable…

One challenge I’ve been grappling with is understanding what fascinates non-French readers about France. Growing up here, the peculiarities of French culture often feel like second nature to me, but I realize they might be wonderfully curious to others. For instance, I recently stumbled upon Beth Le Manach’s article “Christmas Tree in France is not like in the US”, and it struck me as such a simple yet delightful topic. It made me wonder: what other everyday details might you find captivating?

I also want to peel back the layers of the overly romanticized images of France often portrayed online—think Parisian glamour, vintage farmers’ markets, and whimsical home décor. Blame it on Instagram or Emily in Paris. While that side of France does exist, my life here in Brittany is different, and I want to share the beauty of the ordinary: the real flavors, textures and colors of everyday French living.

So, here’s where I need your help!

I’ve created a quick 9-question poll to hear your thoughts on the kind of content you’d love to see in 2025. Your feedback will help me craft recipes, stories and articles that truly resonate. And if you have any additional suggestions or ideas, I’d be delighted to hear them in the comments.

Open questions (please answer in the comments section)

• If there's something that makes “A Table in France” newsletter stand out, what it is?

• What is missing from “A Table in France” newsletter that you would love to see featured?

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Here’s to a bright and flavorful 2025, filled with connection, curiosity and plenty of delicious moments.

With love,

Audrey.