In with the old & out with the new

Birkenstocks, the nerdiest form of shoe wear for decades. Why in the world would they come back into the lastst fashion fad? Why would ANYONE consider wearing them? What is all the fuss over Birkenstocks. Well here's the thing, I used to be a hater myself. I wish I could say I liked them before anyone else did back when they were a downcast article of clothing. But alas, I did not. I recently have grown to be CRAZY about them now! What is all the fuss? Here's the scoop in 3 reasons.

1. Select styles are suprisingly kinda cute now.
2. They are INSANELY comfortable.
3. They last a lifetime.

My grandma has been a faithful customer of Birkenstocks for 40 years. Overhearing gossip that my sister and I are interested in a pair, she wanted to take us shoe shopping at the Birkenstock store. ( She loves to spoil us silly). So today my mother,crunchy sister and I took her. (For those who are unfamiliar with the term 'crunchy', it is a lifestyle/ personality type of a yoga California living individual who takes pleasure in eating organic foods and traveling. AKA my sister, given that she has always loved Birkenstocks even when I teased her about how haneous they were years ago.) I had in mind a specific style, the Madrid style. Rather than multiple straps around your foot weaving in and out of your toes, it consists of a single simple strap. So I thought, "alright self, these Birkies are not too bad. They're more like a sandal, so it's acceptable." But to my dismay, THEY DID NOT HAVE THE MADRID STYLE... pretty distressing I know. I actually considered not getting any, and resorting to ordering the Madrid online. But ya know, I tried on a black patent leather two strap Birky, and suprisingly liked it. Liked it a lot. So much, that I got them. Again I thought to myself, "you know what self, you like these nerdy cute little Birkies. Embrace the nerdiness." And I DID! They are so comfortable, so accidentally stylish, and so multifunctional. My grandma, my sister, and mom, all came out wearing a pair. My two cents, buy some Birkies. You'll be hooked.

A trip well spent.

It is summer as we all know, and summer is a time for enjoying free time and friends. Spending time at the beach, letting your hair dry in the sun, and windows rolled down with fantastic music blasting. In other words... a road trip. My two dear friends and myself visited the town of Kitty Hawk, NC a few weekends ago. On the short journey down we jammed to our spotify road trip playlist while laughing incontrollably pointing out perfect photo locations, and admiring the charming countryside. 

Once our destination was reached (without even using an iPhone to get there), our first stop was the infamous Duck Donuts. This place let me tell you, is the quintessence of donuts. Just by stepping into the donut parlor our mouths began to water and our stomachs to murmur. To satisfy these longings, we settled for a half dozen of various flavors. (I say settled, because eating an entire dozen of Duck Donuts is all too tempting.) With our half dozen in hand, we plopped onto the beach across the street. With the six donuts scarfed down within minutes, we lounged in the hot sun and basked into the cool water for about two hours. Not very long I know, but we had other intentions for coming to the outer banks aside from the beach.
We then drove to the charming little town of Manteo on Roanoke Island, the Roanoke Lighthouse being our main destination. From there we explored a little throughout downtown Manteo, visiting a coffeehouse to revitalize ourselves, an antique shop, and other little shops.

Roanoke Lighthouse

The view

Mes amis

The Coffeehouse

An entire wall in the coffeehouse of writing.

The antique shop

Antique bottles

From there we concluded our trip, and left. Needless to say, it was a good day. Probably the best day I've had this summer. The best of times are always the unexpected adventures. When one travels or explores, leaving the destination ahead of you unplanned or unknown is the way to do it. That is, afterall, the entire reason for exploring. Relating to that cliche 70's quote "Not all those who wonder are lost", in this instance I must concur. 

A little background.

Salutations to my first ever blog post! I admit, my first few posts might prove to be a little inexsperienced and pristine. However, I intend to do my level best at blogging if I am to become a writer. Bear with me as I find myself at home here on blogspot. 

About myself: 
I am a 17 year old girl currently dwelling in Virginia, with dreams of living abroad or in the city. I am an aspiring writer, with a vintage gypsy soul. I admit, I do spend the majority of my idle time day dreaming about traveling, words, and brilliant photo ops. I often think to myself, I was not meant for this day and age. The 50s is where I belong. If I had my way of living, I would be on an apartment veranda, enjoying a cup of chai tea with a few macaroons, overlooking the city of Paris! I speak french, therefore anxious to one day visit the county. 

Why the title 'French Pressed Peony'?
Well for starters, the 'French' in my blog name can be explained by the fact that I take an inerest in anything french! I love all things european. Secondly, the word 'Pressed' is a bit of a double meaning. The two words 'french' and 'pressed' combine into the phrase 'french pressed'. In other words, a style of brewing coffee, the french press. I am passionate about coffee in all shapes and forms. Lastly, the word 'peony' is pretty self explanitory. The peony is my most favorite and adored flower.

In conclusion:
Now there is a little information known about me and my interests. I would very much love to hear feedback on my posts, and followers of course! Thank you for your time reading my blog!