But to be more specific, perhaps these points by Ariane Daguin, of D’Artagnan fame, clarifies some potential misconceptions about force-feeding and the raising of foie gras. In addition, not ALL foie is from force fed birds, some are from birds that are finished with the “preparation” to migrate and thus have fatter livers (though one can argue its mean to kill those as well.

It probably deserves a much longer discussion, but it’s interesting to note that some cities like Chicago that banned foie gras consumption in the U.S. have actually reversed themselves in recent years. And California is the only state that has kept their ban so far. And for vegetarians, I guess, I would pose the question about the potential ethical problem with killing any living thing. Just because vegetables and fruits don’t have a brain in the “classic sense” doesn’t mean they aren’t screaming in agony when we chew on them along with a little bit of salad dressing.

2nd photo reminded me of a great photography tip: best to do your cityscape photos right before dusk and you will get the bluest sky!

Your French trip would certainly be a gastronomic, epicurean experience…