Notes on JOIE with Ajiri Aki

1 week ago | ajiriaki.substack.com | Ajiri Aki

I truly love putting these lists together every season because it helps me research and round up all the exhibitions I would love to see. Sure, it isn’t possible to make it to all of them, but I sure try. Also for those of you who live far away, maybe you are similar to me and enjoy knowing what exhibitions are happening around the world. I am happy to read the website descriptions, see what free tidbits they generously share, and then I order the catalogue.

3 weeks ago | ajiriaki.substack.com | Ajiri Aki

February was a rather sleepy and short month. I managed to break my toe at the beginning of the month so I didn’t get around much. (And don’t feel too sorry for me because I do this at least 2-3 times a year.) Our kids had two weeks off school for the ski/Winter holidays, and I had big plans to finally make it to the Fete du Citron in Menton, but with a busted toe, plans had to be adjusted. Next year, hopefully, I won’t walk like a duck and can actually make it.

1 month ago | ajiriaki.substack.com | Ajiri Aki

Three to four times a year, we travel to Switzerland, my husband’s homeland. Surprisingly, I rarely share all the places we visit. Most guides and articles focus on the luxurious spots I love, but traveling with a local who avoids those places has led me to discover another side of Switzerland—one I’ve finally decided to start documenting and sharing. If you know me well, you’ve probably heard me complain about visiting my MIL from time to time.

1 month ago | ajiriaki.substack.com | Ajiri Aki |Zeva Bellel

I posted on my Instagram last week that I am one of the few who love January, and I truly mean it. However if you have followed me for some time, then you might also remember the newsletter where I wrote about winter being my least favorite season and often hard to push through. I know it sounds contradictory, but two things can be true. Let me explain. I enjoy celebrating my birthday at the beginning of Jan, and the start of the year feels like new beginnings.

2 months ago | ajiriaki.substack.com | Ajiri Aki

It’s that time of year when I announce that dates for The Good Life Retreats in Provence. This will be the fourth year hosting these retreats, and as always, I am excited for what’s to come. It gives me something to look forward to when all my fun Summer vacations are over. Everything you need to know about the retreat can be found on the website link below, but I also wrote an article about what happens when you gather a group of strangers together for a week.