Snapshots of the last two weeks. Today I said goodbye to my cousins in Paris as they journeyed home. My cousin Chris found the least amount of steps from the hotel to the metro. When you are in Paris the three things you need to have are: Comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella, and wheels on your suitcase. Though my mom always added two more to the list: Pack your clothes in your wallet, and your money in your suitcase. Paris is expensive.
The last two weeks started in Provence. The sea was warm, Chris and French Husband did the water thing, flippers and swimming down deep. Judy and I stayed onshore collecting seashells and sea-pottery, (as in sea glass only pottery).
After the boys swam we sat on the rocky beach we noticed that a film crew was setting up. They strategically placed people dressed in swimsuits on beach towels, and two very young beautiful lovers in the water. When the camera began to roll, I noticed that we were in direct line with the action. I quickly jumped on French Husband and started to make out. Chris and Judy were cracking up which added fuel to my fire.
Soon thereafter the film director sent someone over to tell us to knock it off. Darn (!!) our film debut sank.
Other than romance, the last two weeks have been full of visiting small Provencal towns, feasting of baguette, cheese, and wine, antiquing at second hand stores, brocantes and flea markets, sitting at cafes, taking in museums, and talking, talking, talking… and more talking.
We traveled well together… easy going, taking each day in stride, realistic expectations with the possibility of rain as a sign to stay home and read… well at least for part of the day at least.
I caught a cold while my cousins were with us, (Not due to the beach scene!) I hadn't one in over four years, so I guess I was overdue for one. (The most amazing thing is my cousins, nor French Husband caught it! I caught mine from Chelsea and Sacha.) Even with a faucet for a nose, and the general sluggish-ness I was feeling, it didn't seem to tarnish our enjoyment of these last two weeks.
In Aix en Provence we met Mary (A blogger friend of mine who writes, Across the Pond.)It was as if we knew each other for years; husbands, cousins, bloggers in a small town in France as if it was common occurrence to hang out together. Life is colorful, eventful, full of surprises and filled with adventures… it helps to carry an open heart so that the fullness can sip in and nourish one no matter what life brings.
The last two weeks, with the stock markets on a draining rollercoaster ride, with banks failing and everyone wondering what the future holds… I'm glad you followed along, adding cheer, humor and trusting that happiness is a gift worth cultivating. Thanks for adding color to the in famous beret, and for sharing in the journey that this French life brings.
Bon Voyage
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