I Wish I had a French Cafe and Almond Croissants Paperback – Large Print, March 10, 2026

In this deeply personal memoir, a retired teacher, writer and artist weaves together a tapestry of poignant vignettes from her life while paying tribute to her parents’ and her in-laws’ legacy. The narrative moves fluidly between present reflections on her artistic family and past memories—from her childhood in New Orleans, her first kiss at a school dance to the later tragic death of that boy, encounters with celebrities in 1970s Hollywood and “the valley”, and the joys and challenges of raising twins and their older sister. As she navigates aging, health challenges like myopic macular degeneration, and loss, she finds humor in life's absurdities: parking lot escapades, dental mishaps, and rat infestations. The book intertwines true stories of family connections, including her cherished bond with both "Auntie and Mo.." Through moments of both heartbreak and beauty—from the tragedy of 9/11 to simple pleasures shared with loved ones—the memoir ultimately celebrates resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of family ties across generations. Read more