La Drougerie, Paris

Linen yarn above wool yarn

Fake flowers, fabric and butterfly in display cabinet

I like these little velvet flowers

Luxury ribbons

Luxury ribbons close up

Pretty glass beads

Nearby a minimalist shop front at agnes b.

I'm back from Paris. Foot weary but I had the best time. I've taken 117 photos. Thought you'd like to see the ones of la drougerie - every makers' heaven, first. Another year older but hey, I'm so lucky. I have the most wonderful kids who gave me 3 days in Paris as my birthday present.

The trip was easy and fast by Eurostar. The New Orient Hotel was within walking distance from the centre but peaceful and less crowded. I would thoroughly recommend this hotel in rue du Constantinople in the 8th to anyone visiting Paris. Clean, with very comfortable beds and thoughtful, friendly service. And an easy walk to the nearest metro (Europe or Villiers) though if you wanted to you could walk to Gare St Lazare which we did a few times.

At la drougerie I bought a baby clothes pattern and some thick pale blue felt. Sophie and Amy my daughters and Jess my son's partner all bought earring ingredients. I particularly liked the wing charms and wish I'd bought them now. After popping their heads round the shop door for a few seconds the three men found a nearby cafe to wait for us. We surreptiously took photos as you're not really allowed. Sophie's are the best. They look like gorgeous postcards. More of my less proficient photos to come. Happy Easter!