Two Americans Loose in France

Behind the Closed Doors

2011-07-01T06:55:00.003+02:00

Summer arrived as a celebration here in Vers Pont du Gard. Our village celebrated with the opening of many Cours et Jardins, courtyards and gardens most hidden from eyes for the remaining days of the year.

Tucked away behind these ancient walls were marvelous displays of sculptures, paintings, ceramics, mobiles, carvings, jewelry, quilts and handmade books.

This door opened to the most wonderful garden art. Yes, Joe had to have an object from this artist, Joelle Moine .

Another gate allowed one to enter a Provencal home of the 1800's (well, probably much earlier). The art was delightful, however, to see the home as it was at that time was extraordinary.

The following door opened to glittering jewelry and hand bound books. Notice these doors carefully. One is the French trompe l'oeil or to fool the eye.

Upon entering this gate, an array of ceramics and pictures were revealed. However, the most amazing art in this garden was the owners wood "pile", leftovers from his vineyard.

Our cour or courtyard was going to become the home for Jenny Avenel, an artist from the village of Poulx. As you can see, we had some work to do before she arrived.

Saturday morning after a brief rain shower the sun along with Jenny and her husband arrived. Our cour became her art gallery.

The accordion player venture in to fill the air with his music.

Our house welcomed visitors for the two days of the festival.

Flowers filled the unexpected niches in walls and

entryways became galleries

of artists we enjoyed meeting.
Ulie Bremer

Music floated through the air inviting onlookers to dance in the street.

Plan on being in France next June. Once again the streets will be filled with the sounds of music and visitors to our cours et jardins
Hmmm, I wonder what is behind this door?

Salut!
Cindy

The Day of Transhumance

2011-06-14T13:43:00.002+02:00

Fifty days after Easter is Pentecost, however, fifty-one days after Easter is Transhumance. So? Travel to St. Rémy de Provence on the Monday after Pentecost and you will find a brocante (flea market), food vendors, and crowds anxiously waiting....

for the arrival of the sheep being taken to the high valleys surrounding St. Rémy. We arrived early as parking is difficult and found the absolutely perfect place to perch, the steps to a most beautiful church. Here we could stand high above the crowds with no one to obstruct our view of the herds that were to arrive. Alas, many others arrived and surrounded the passageway and all we saw were....now look carefully....gray backs following other gray backs.

After several hundred had passed we darted along the walks to attempt to get ahead of them and find that other perfect place where we could really see them pass. We were successful!

The shepherdess joined in the journey

to guide the sheep. A wagon with the provisions for the trip carried a bonbonne, a large wicker covered glass container, filled with wine.

Burros carried other supplies for the summer in the mountains.

The sheep, with their thick wool coats, trudged along in the heat of the day.

Of course, the rams were included in the group.

If you are ever near St. Remy at this time, do join the festivities. It is quite fun to see the old traditions continue.

If was quite fun until walking down the street I noticed the menus for the day...

The selections for the day, agneau----or lamb.

Ah!

Caio,

Cindy

If You Have Visited Us Before...

2011-05-22T13:19:00.001+02:00

Ah, if you have visited us in Vers Pont du Gard you know that we have had a good baker. To walk up the hill in the warm morning sun, the aromas from the freshly baked bread always greeted you. Now, with our new baker, the aromas are much more complex. Yes, the bread, croissants, pan au chocolat are all wonderful, however, the pastries are divine. Joe arrived home with this-

What a wonderful, healthy lunch it was.
Hooray, Dominique!

Doesn't this make you want to visit us again?

Enjoy the sun,

Cindy
Le Fournil du Pont du Gard
1 Rue Grand du Bourg
30210 Vers Pont du Gard, France
04 66 37 36 79
Michèle and Dominique Quelo

Spring Has Arrived---And So Has Wednesday---

2011-05-05T09:25:00.000+02:00

We can tell it is Spring here in Vers Pont du Gard, because John and Joe took the picnic table down from Jean and John's grenier (attic).....

Our picnic table winters at their home. It is quite portable...two wooden saw horses and a refinished door!

The chandelier has been hung in the laurel rose and new candles added anticipating the evening sky.

The windows are dressed in their Spring finery.

....And Amy, our daughter, is sending over boxes of opened wine, with just one glass taken from them, signaling her tasting (and writing about the wines) for the Bettane and Desseauve Grand Guides des Vins de France 2012. We know it is Spring!

And when Spring arrives, so does Wednesday Pizza Night on rue Bourg Riant. The pizza truck arrives, pizzas are ordered, and we eagerly "test" those bottles of wine.

Friends gather at the table for delicious salads of the south, the wines,

and lots of giggles.

Finally, finally, dessert has been eaten and Rony (in the gray sweater) and Martine (with her colorful scarf) pour their Caribbean vanilla rum for us all to savor.

A toast to the first Wednesday pizza night of 2011!

In the silence of late evening, Linda returns home with her empty bowl to be filled once again next Wednesday.

Happy Spring!

Cindy

To Prepare for the Holiday We...

2011-04-23T20:20:00.001+02:00

Easter in southern France is a time for family, friends, and eating. Our visit today to our local boulangerie in Vers Pont du Gard was....

a vision in spring colors

awaiting to be savored.

And at the patisserie, Savarin, in the neighboring village of Uzès, the lines were as long

to acquire some wonderful treats.

Perching in the window is a chocolate delight.

However, the rooster watches over all.

Selections take a lot of time.

And everyone dreams

...of visions of sugarplums...

Happy Easter or Spring to all!

Joyeuses Pâques

Cindy...

and we have tucked lemon rolls by our fire to rise for morning breakfast.

....And The Lights Went Our In Vers Pont du Gard....

2011-04-21T22:18:00.001+02:00

Yes, the lights went out in Vers. Now, they were to be on at 3:00, well, maybe 4:00. The boulangerie could not bake the bread, the grocery could not sell the cheese, the bar, however, was quite active. Pierre and Albert arrived at our door to tell us the lights would be out until 8:00.

Neighbors began to gather....

The boys in our doorway.

The girls across the road.

More neighbors find their way to our door.

And soon the wine began to be poured.

Potato chips, the most wonderful snack in France, arrived.

Doors to houses were left open as more joined the group.

Occasionally, we had to depart the street to let the tractor pass or the bus or the many cars who said "Bon Appeit" as they passed..

And the mayor had to join the conversation about the outage (It is his birthday tomorrow, you know)

Albert brought a delicious wine and more chips.

It was such a delightful evening that when the lights finally came on we were disappointed.

John and Jean began the departure of the group. Each saying what fun it was to meet in the street.

Ah, warm weather, no computers, no TVs and friends.

We are smiling!

Bon Soir!

Cindy

Five Days 'Til Christmas

2010-12-20T16:13:00.000+01:00

No, it is not France, however, just as interesting. We are in London, actually Egham, with Molly and Billy.

After a 9 AM hot chocolate and schnapps in the snowy airport parking lot in Colorado Springs with Kathy and Pete, we were on our way to another snowy, cold adventure in the UK.

Yes, the afternoon of our arrival turned white and by the beginning of the next day the airports were no longer sending or receiving passengers.

Even though the weather was bitter, Santa (Billy) delivered a new package to the house. Yes, Santa was early, but Princess Zoe Betty was ready for a new home. She is joining Zeb and Iggy who are still wondering what this little thing is.

Zoe takes a lot of lap naps. She does like Molly's warm floors as do we.

Sunday lunch took us to a pub in the English countryside. If you have watched Nancy Meyer's The Holiday, you know that Cameron Diaz's character walks to The Pot Kiln to sing Christmas carols with the other locals.

As you can see the menu has many servings of local game collected from the hills outside the door. The parsnip curry soup was wonderful.

Billy's dad, Bill, always has animated conversations even without his wine as he was a designated driver!

Joe's venison could not have been more delicious.

The frosty windows tell the story of summer, however, the light begins to fade about 3:30 in the afternoon.

Our desserts arrived to end our repast. A panna cotta with quince and gingerbread and a local cheese selection with chutney and oat crackers.

Listening carefully, we could hear Christmas carols coming from the bar. Antlers bobbed on heads along with Santa hats and stars as all gathered round a musician playing the familiar---and some not so familiar---tunes of Christmas.

Cheer was had by all inviting all to join in song.

Exiting from the cozy room, the chill winter moon greeted us. All were filled with the warm feelings of the holidays.

Smiles warmed us in the winter night. If you are ever in the Frillsham area of the UK, visit The Pot Kiln. I imagine that it is gorgeous in the warmth of summer. The Pot Kiln

Take A Wild Bunch...

2010-09-29T09:40:00.000+02:00

The telephone rings about 7 P.M.

The voice of my son-in-law, Matt, announces that he cannot find the key to the tractor The tractor, the primary player in harvesting the hand picked grapes, is now silent. The key always safely kept in the tractor ignition is residing in some very secure place known only to itself. Matt, however, continues his announcement that he has collected wild arugula from the fields.

Do we have tomatoes, pasta, Parmesan, garlic? Now, what kitchen wouldn't always have those ingredients for an emergency. Matt declares that he will be right over with Molly to cook dinner and later play a little Mah Jongg.

The arugula has a brilliant lemon yellow flower and is dotting all of the fields during the fall harvesting season. As one walks through the plants, a spicy fragrance arises, another sign of cooling weather. Plucking the leaves from the wild plans produces a bowl of emerald green.

Tomatoes are halved, garlic is chopped and....

and all are sauteed quickly to produce a wonderful bowl of Matt's Arugula Tomato Pasta.

This is a "take a handful" recipe and if you have fresh arugula enjoy Matt's recipe.

Matt's Wild Arugula Pasta
A handful recipe---
A large handful of wild arugula (roquette), or store acquired, leaves striped and roughly chopped.
3-4 cloves of garlic, chopped
Generous amount of olive oil
4-6 handfuls of cherry tomatoes, halvd
Salt and Pepper
Penne or farfalle pasta
Parmigiano reggianno (Parmesan), grated

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to cook the pasta. When boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the directions.
Harvest a large bunch of wild arugula (roquette.) Strip off the leaves and chop in large pieces.
In a shallow sauté pan, sauté the garlic in a generous amount of olive oil until golden. Be careful not to burn or it will be bitter.
Add the cherry tomato halves to the pan and sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Combine the chopped arugula with the tomatoes and garlic and cook another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
The goal is for both the tomatoes and arugula to be lightly cooked only. You want to retain the freshness of the ingredients.
Meanwhile, drain the cooked pasta and place in a large serving bowl. Add the arugula tomato sauce and toss gently.
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmigiano reggiano (Parmesan) over the completed pasta dish.
Serve with a bottle of La Gramiere (lagramiere.com ) Rosé.
Matt Kling

Yes, the tractor key was found. It was residing, not on a key chain, but in the very bottom pocket of dirty work pants. It now, however, is attached to a vibrant orange

gummi bear.

Á Bientôt,
Cindy

Maybe, maybe this weekend!

2010-09-23T11:12:00.003+02:00

The grape harvest is taking forever. Every other year we have begun and ended with only a few days between picking. This year, however, we began by picking grapes for the La Gramiere rosé and waited. A week later we began the grand picking---for three days--- and waited. Four days later saw us picking more Syrah and now we are waiting. Maybe this weekend we will complete the harvest. Just maybe. The grapes are very leisurely ripening and enjoying the warm Provencal sun.

As the foods we buy at the outdoor markets are freshly picked by the producer, they are ready to eat---now. Sitting a pear on a shelf for a few days can result in mush. Not exactly how we buy things from our grocery stores. This made it difficult for me to shop for the lunches. I planned and we ate between the harvest what I had planned, so I began all over.

Twenty-five volunteers, friends, family, dogs, and a camera crew began the harvest at the beginning of last week. The chill of the early morning greeted everyone as we began the careful picking of the organic grapes.

Peta Mathias, (petamathias.com ) New Zealand author,cooking, and travel personality met us with Jane and Jeff, her producer and camera, man to film the harvest of La Gramiere ( lagramiere.com ). Peta was teaching a Provençal cooking class in the area and creating a series of shows for New Zealand TV. Amy was interviewed about her adventures in wine telling the story of how she and Matt got into vines and wines. Traveling through the vineyard, they filmed us hard at work collecting the 2010 pre-wine or grapes!

Coffee time arrived with conversations, French muffins and new friends. In her sun catching hat, Joan, Matt's mom, and Linda, our neighbor enjoy the morning break.

Ronny who is in communications work on St. Barts discusses Jeff's new HD camera, fascinated by its lightness.

Lunch time brought us all to the table for an Albania feast of dolmas wrapped in brined La Gramiere grape leaves and a fresh beet salad. Two young girls, Julianne and Alysa, were staying with Amy to learn the intricacies of wine. Alisa, with her mother's input, created the dolmas from a family recipe. Yum!

Joining us for lunch, walking through the vineyards and enjoying the conversation was our neighbors eighty-nine year old mother. All ages gather as on a following day we had a four month old who cried when I looked at him.

What fun we have in the vineyards! And oh, what a good sleeping pill it is.

Bisous,

Cindy

To Summer and the Harvest!

2010-08-31T14:54:00.000+02:00

Walking through the vineyards tasting the grapes along the way told us harvest was near.

With a chill in the air and the grapes the deepest purple, September must be peeking around the corner.

Summer's end is notice for a picnic in the vineyard. The note that went out said to bring a dish to share and any new friends. Wine would be of the vineyard where the picnic will be held, Lauzette.

Along with the guests came foods of the season. Here in the Gard, one can tell the month by the foods that are shared. Figs freshly picked from the tree on the country road.

Roasted nectarines plump with a rosy, golden glow.

A summer potato salad bursting with many flavors of the garden.

Savory madeleines filled with the flavors of Southern France: dried tomato, rosemary, olive tapenade, cheese, and roasted red pepper. So much wonderful food filled the tables.

And yes, the Liss' brought the most important treat to Amy---Oreos!

People gathered to enjoy a goodbye to summer.

As the sun slipped behind the hills, we all looked forward to the harvest to come and the new La Gramiere 2010 which will soon be created by those plump, purple globes.

Á bientôt,
Cindy

To Market, To Market

2010-08-27T14:48:00.001+02:00

It is market day in Saint Quentin la Poterie. This market we never miss as it has one of our favorite producers from the neighboring town of Saint Sieffret. The colors of the fruits and vegetable arriving in the market are a sign of the

coming season.

.....and the colors continue....

The delicious pineapple tomato is as large as your hand.

The Black Crim, thinly sliced on toast drizzled with olive oil topped with buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil, is heaven.

You do have your choice of color. The morning a white tomato appeared. Yes, it was added to our basket.

The price of these heirloom tomatoes? Less than $1.25 a pound. YUM!

The treat is that the producers are there each week to sell their treasures.

All fruits and vegetable must have their place of origin. As this is a producers' market, their names are included on the signs. Even in the grocery stores you know where your food was grown as the countries are displayed along side the produce.

Can you imagine how delicious this jam would be on a cold winter's morning?

Tomato sauce with pasta is delicious made from the classic tomato. Stock up your freezer for winter meals.

Other vegetables? Just look and see.

and.....

All at today's market. No you can understand how very spoiled we are. Our food is so fresh and flavorful. Amy and Matt are having a large picnic in the vineyards Sunday evening. I wonder, how can I use those tomatoes? Any ideas?

Bon week-end,

Cindy

A Little Night Music

2010-08-24T13:48:00.001+02:00

Last evening, under a cloudy sky, we joined others for a piano concert given by Guilhem Fabre. The setting for the concert was the terrasse of a home in our village, Vers Pont du Gard.

People gathered for wine before Guilhem played Chopin, Liszt, Schubert and Schumann (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCB09TNXOVc&feature=related). During the concert, the near full moon tried to join us, however, the clouds delayed its arrival.

Tall and slender, Guilhem filled the night with Musique Romantique.

The chandelier added a bit of whimsy to the performance.

Following an hour of night music, the kitchen was bustling. Each person at the concert had brought a favorite food to share at the buffet.

Fresh fruits and vegetable settled into many of this evening's dishes.

Our neighbors, Jean and John, joined us in the garden

while others gathered under the night sky enjoying the excellent foods and conversation.

A small village Vers Pont du Gard? Yes, but with many exciting things happening.

Two Girls and the Pont

2010-08-19T08:37:00.000+02:00

We had visitors for a sleepover last week. Ari and Em from Switzerland joined us for dinner and a hike while their parents enjoyed a dinner out.

Dinner at the Bistro Burger was first on our list.

All of our orders were taken including Em's who did not want a burger. When her burger arrived, it was a dilemma. Somehow that burger disappeared. I don't think the pigeon ate it, however who knows.

Following dinner, we jumped into the car for an evening adventure at the Pont du Gard. As you know, our village, Vers Pont du Gard, is a 30-45 minute walk from this amazing structure. The Roman aqueduct was built 2000 years ago to carry water to the nearby town of Nîmes, which was a thriving Roman town of 20,000. Water had to travel from the Eure Valley in Uzes about 50 kilometers (31 miles) and only dropping 12 meters (39 feet) in that distance.

Water traveled only by gravity. Most of the aqueduct was underground, however, terrain and slope made it necessary for portions to be above the surface. Up to 1000 men worked on the Pont du Gard using no mortar, numbering stones, creating scaffolding and places to attach lifting devices to complete the structure.
The aqueduct is an UNESCO world heritage site and you can see why.

The Pont is the second most visited place in France after the Eiffel Tower!

Summer evenings bring a treat to those who visit. If you can stay up past nine o'clock, the bridge is illuminated with an array of colored lights.

Curiosity got the best of Ari and Em. What would they look like in the lights?

Visiting the Pont du Gard in the summer? Take a picnic and enjoy an evening under the stars gazing at this fantastic structure.

Au revoir,
Cindy
Let's do this again, Ari and Em!

A Fête!

2010-08-14T08:24:00.000+02:00

The signs are all here.

Our one way street sign as been covered. Ah, there is no way for two cars to pass at one time on this village road. The French, when learning to drive, must first learn how to back a car before driving forward.

Black bags cover the one way signs!

Note our one way signs.

Grand boule tournaments are played by young and old with great cash prizes.

Barriers have arrived and been installed.

Houses have been shuttered and vacated (all except us on our street!---and friends from Nice who are here. Patrice is the 14th generation to live in the house.).

The trucks with the cows and the gorgeous Carmargue white horses are parked in the shade.

The leavings of a horse from the noon arrival (abrivado) rest in the street.

The ambulance awaits in case of injuries.

The sound test for the concerts are clearly heard in our courtyard.

This is last evening performance.

Yes, it is our Fête Votive. Every town, no matter its size in southern France has a Fête Votive. Ours will continue until Monday with the town youth chasing bulls down the street, wonderful gatherings for apertifs and breakfasts for the villagers, carnival for the very young, and the concert every evening until at least 2 AM for those who can stay up that late---or those who live close to the Place de Cerise where the concert is held.

Enjoy your quiet weekend. Here, we will be listening to live, loud music.

Cindy

Gone!

2010-08-08T13:32:00.001+02:00

It was early. Six fifty AM. The phone rang. The familiar ring of Amy's cell phone. "I am in the vineyard and they are ripping up the vines."

Arriving ten minutes later, a gigantic tractor was attacking the forty year old vines.

A large claw and a chain made its way down the rows of grape laden vines, pulling each up and leaving the remains on the hard ground.

The EU is paying vignerons to pull up and replant their vineyards. These vines had not been pruned during the blustery winter and were loaded with grapes, many so small there would be no juices. The plants, many a yellow green, were stressed from providing food to the abundant fruits.

Duning the winter months, vines are trimmed back to produce a minimum of healthy grapes. These vines will produce full, vibrant wines in September. The grapes, which are beginning to gain color, are plump and uniform on the pruned vines.

The giant red tractor took a swath through the vineyard

leaving behind vines,

withered grapes,

and lonely spaces

where the sounds of cigales fill the evening air.

Winter will bring the replanting of the vines as the rains will nourish them. This all had to be completed by July 31 as the EU did not want the vignerons to be using the grapes in this years harvest.

It was rather sad watching a plant so old and comfortable in its surroundings being left to dry in the winds and sun.

À toute à l'heure,

Cindy

Three Days of Birthday

2010-07-17T18:21:00.000+02:00

Just a month late, but well worth the wait. As my birthday present, Joe, Molly, and Amy presented me with a day in Paris first joining Wendy Lyn for a walk of the neighborhood artisnal merchants (thepariskitchen.com ) and ending with an evening cooking with Susan Herrmann Loomis of On Rue Tatin fame (onruetatin.com and nutsinthekitchen.com ). And the best of that present? Spending three days with Molly and Amy (sorry Joe!).

Arriving on what in the US is Bastille Day and in France is Fête Nationale, we watched the parade of military planes gliding through the dark skies. Our hotel was a short distance from the Gare de Lyon, therefore, we could drop off out luggage before strolling through Paris.

Our first stop was the Bastille, former site of the prison where many just lost their heads.

The darkening skies gave a flavor to the military parade that was before us---and the rains came

giving us no choice but to find a small cafe to enjoy lunch while sheets of rain flooded the streets of Paris.

As you will soon find out this was an eating adventure which continued for three days. The following morning I met Wendy to begin the journey into Paris history and foods, present and past. A pâtisserie (bakery), fromagerie (cheese shop), chocolatier, and wine bar were all part of that adventure.

Patrick Roger had the most wonderful chocolates from the world and created (or played with) chocolate to fill his window with whimsy.

What animal do you see? Take time to look at his web site for interesting fantasies. patrickroger.com

The final stop on Wendy's tour was a popular wine bar, L 'Avant Comptoir.

Time to sit? No, time to stand at the bar and sample its fare. Sausages, artisnal butters and salts, a huge artichoke that once the leaves had been consumed, the choke was cleaned cut in bite size pieces, and drizzled with an aioli to be enjoyed by all. Thank you, Wendy, for a delightful day.

The evening brought us to an apartment in the area which would be our gathering place for cooking dinner with Susan Herrmman Loomis.

To begin we had a salt tasting, great comparisons of taste, five nut oil tastings, and a comparison of chocolates, each with a different percentage of chocolate.

Our recipes were posted for us to begin the preparation of our dinner.

Cucumber and Fresh Cheese Verrine

Pork Chops with Parsley and Green olive Condiment

Salad with Hazelnut Vinaigrette

Cheeses

Sautéed Cherries

YUM!

I had also brought two bottles of Amy's rosé to dress our table.

What a delightful evening! Thank you, Susan.

Our hotel was great. Small and tucked into a delightful neighborhood. We totally enjoyed it.

The most important part of the location is a delicious pâtisserie that we visited, no, frequented while we were in Paris.

The morning treats...

and the afternoon treats...

were all delicious. Amy had to do a sampling of several and there wasn't a flake of anything left for the pigeons!

Oh, and yes, there was just one more we had to try before we left, a raspberry filled confection.

What a fun, but short three days. Thank you for a real adventure. I would recommend everyone put this on your list to do.

Au revoir,

Cindy

(If you need any more information on the places or people in my adventure, let me know!)

Total French Immersion

2010-07-13T18:33:00.002+02:00

Summer had begun. As the golden light settled over the village of St. Siffret, new friends gathered in the gardens to enjoy the conversations and a delightful dinner.

These Provencal gardens were uniquely designed to include things of old from the region, now put to new use.

Ah, summer. It had begun....until two days later my view had changed. I was going on a unique adventure of being totally immersed in the French language and culture.

Taking Elmo, my granddog, for a two day visit, I looked forward to the early morning walks in the vineyard while the air still had a chill. Amy and Matt were traveling to the eastern Vaucluse about and hour and a half east, to a granache wine seminar. And than....I felt ill. The night was weeks long. When the phone rang early to check on the puppy, all I could say to Amy was, "I am sick."

The world changed. She made two phone calls to neighbors and Matt was on his way back home. The neighbors, just four of my many heroes, arrived to walk Elmo, call the village doctor, and as John did, a retired English doctor, make his diagnosis, which was correct.

Dr. Mauvezin, our village doctor, arrived at my door, called doctors in Nîmes and Matt and I were on our way for help. (Can you imagine a doctor who arrives at your door????)

My next hero, my son in law, Matt, who had to endure every test and translation.

Arriving at the hospital, we were met at the door and were shown to where the first tests would be taken. Finally, the verdict arrived, vesicule biliaire, gall bladder with an infection that had to be controlled before anything could be done. Antibiotics and three weeks later, the laparoscopic surgery to remove the gall bladder would be completed. Quick recovery. No problem.

HA! The infection would not go away, therefore, after a week in the hospital, Amy and the doctor, (ah, I forgot to say the Dr Gaujoux did not speak English. Well, most of the nurses did not either.) decided that 9:30 the following morning would be perfect for that old fashion surgery as the infection continued. It was completed right at the assigned hour, with a greeting before surgery from Dr. Gaujoux in English. The remaining time in the hospital, eight days. Ugh!

I felt like I was inside an apricot. Everything was apricot and couldn't be escaped by going into the halls.

The metal shutters came down to keep the sun out while letting in a gentle breeze.

The morphine, under lock and key, made me very happy.

It is difficult to play a game show in French. Well, for me.

If toes stay still long enough, they get painted---by Molly who had arrived by air.

Now, the French being known for their superb food, did not excel in this category. This is breakfast. Latte tasted delicious, however, the hard toast was not a choice. Finally, for dinner one evening, I went to the nurse and asked for just mashed potatoes. They were delicious and 'real'.

The staff was wonderful with excellent care. We all learned new words and if we could not decipher what someone was saying, gestures were animated. There were lots of smiles and giggles. Since the doctor liked my spunk, I got to go home two days early.

Being home I spent quiet time in the courtyard napping under my small rectangle of the world.

It is now four weeks later and summer has again returned. I have helped with bottling of the wine, labeling those bottles, eaten gooseberries at the neighbors, walked in the sunflower fields, and gone to the markets. I have napped under the blue Provencal sky. Wednesday, I am off to Paris with Molly and Amy.

Summer is here. And my French? I do know new words.... used only in hospitals!

No, we have not received the bill, yet. Our insurance company does know it is coming.

Thank all of you who helped. And thank you Amy for all your translation and just being there.
Happy Summer Days

Cindy
***I do not recommend this type of Total French Language Immersion!

Four for One Tile?

2010-05-30T21:38:00.000+02:00

Last winter when I learned of Victor, the former owner of our home here in Vers Pont du Gard, I was excited about meeting him. Now, I think Victor has been with us all this time. This spring two different vacationers encountered Victor, not seeing him but, seeing some of his antics. Our first friends stayed in our house for two weeks and one day, suddenly, a picture fell from the bedroom wall. Hmmmm.

And a week later another friend encountered Victor as a second picture in the salon came crashing to the floor (They said the party wasn't that rambunctious). This was not the only happening the week they were here. In the courtyard a tile shattered from high above into the courtyard. Hmmmm.

This makes me wonder. Had the two tiles in the front of the house, one dropping into the street and the other half off the roof, been Victor's doing also?

Michele and Axel, our neighbors, felt they could replace those tiles until they saw the wires they would have to dodge, the overhanging roof, and the height of the ladder. Quickly, they choose to remain grounded.

In a small village, there is always someone who knows someone who is perfect to fix things. Axel found the perfect gentleman who was going to re-stick our tiles. The terracotta tiles for replacement were piled under the stone sink in the courtyard.

The ladder, having to be placed in the street, caused some traffic problems while Joe and Axel bravely steadied it. As several cars had to slow, the courteous drivers were very patient.

Our neighbor, a roofer, from around the corner valiantly climbed the ladder, reached over the overhang, and our tiles have returned to the roof.

Is Victor still with us? For now, he is comfortable and silent.

Only time will tell.
Bonsoir,
Cindy

Ah, Florence

2010-05-16T05:23:00.001+02:00

Ah, Florence. Something I had only seen in pictures and now I have seen the Duomo,

and the bell tower,

however, with our guide leading us to other important sights, I want to share these with you. Our first visit was to one of the gorgeous Florentine churches. Of course, right across the road was the monastery. This not being unusual to have the monastery so close to "work", the next street was not quite what I had expected, the Via Delle Bella Donne, the Street of Beautiful Women. Hmmmmmm!

Along that same street told me that nothing is new in the world. The "drive-up" window is frequently seen in buildings of Florence. Imagine, arriving in your chariot filled with children and not having to drag them all into the store. Wonderful!

With all the gorgeous churches around, the people during the plague, when about a third of Florence perished, feared gathering to worship. On the street corners, plaques were erected for quick prayers.

As you may have noticed, most of my pictures are very gray. A spot of color---

all under the umbrella of the day.
On we walked to the faux statue of Michelangelo's David. One preschooler was very curious. So curious that she climbed onto David's pedestal to hold his hand. Alas, one of his fingers broke off the statue. Just how do you explain that? It has been since reattached. After several mishaps, David now resides safely in a museum.

People gathered to watch races, be involved in festivals, and other activities of ancient Florence. Public bathrooms were difficult to find, therefore, narrow passages ways were constructed that were open for general usage. How convenient for all.

Interested in buying fabrics from the merchants? Of course, you would want to be sure they were being honest. Just step outside the shop and carved on the wall is the official measure of that time.

Oh, you rode your horse to work. Don't worry about an overcrowded parking lot. Just tie your horse to any of the rings conveniently located on your office building.

You are tired of the kids. Yelling, screaming, whining. They just never stop. Ah, but the residents of ancient Florence were very wise. Just leave them in this gated area and if you do not retrieve them in three days, never fear, they will be educated and taken care of by the church. (Nobody shared that information with me!)

On top of the Duomo is a gold ball containing the remains of saints. During a storm, it came loose, rolled down the dome into the street without breaking. The place where it landed is a holy spot, not because the ball did not break, but because it did not kill anyone!

After three hours of intriguing information by our delightful guide, Michael Lee, we were hungry. Off we went to Mario's a family owned restaurant since 1953. Yes, we had to wait for our table, but it was well worth our time.

You are able to sit where they want you to. If you are lucky you will meet new dining partners from another country. We were nine, therefore, we had a table just for us. Yes, it was crowded. Yes, it was noisy. Yes, the food was delicious. Yes, we will all return. The first thing to arrive after we were seated was Tuscan bread wrapped in paper napkins. As you will learn later, this was no ones favorite.

The bean soup was delicious. Olive oil is a staple of Tuscany and perfect for an autograph.

Joe was in heaven with his Tuscan steak. Immediately before cooking, it was cut just for him. His choice of doneness? Rare. Well, in Marios, they will only cook the steak rare. It is your problem if you do not

like your steak rare!

I do hope you enjoyed your visit to Florence. Oh, yes, there are lots of other things to see. This is just a taste.

Arrivederci,
Cindy

Not in France!

2010-05-02T19:30:00.000+02:00

We are lost. Well, not really, however we are no longer in France but spending a week in Tuscany at an organic cooking school. Our Christmas present was a week for our whole family experiencing the Italian countryside, seeing organic farms and wineries and visiting Florence and Siena. Our dear friend, Pete, is joining us along with a honeymooning couple from England.

We arrived yesterday to be greeted by enormous pots of lemon trees and Shilpa who is the director of us for the week.

The villa, Bacío, stands on a hill overlooking the Tuscan countryside. The name means that the winds also visit the hill which they are doing well this morning along with a not so gentle rain.

The wisteria covers many building and the pool looked so inviting----yesterday.

As everyone arrived from different directions, the conversation became quite animated.

As the wind had arrived on this Tuscan hill, we gathered at the limonaia for dinner.

Our dinner this evening was presented by Shilpa, the coordinator, and Christina, the wine expert who will also be taking us through an olive oil tasting. The alfresco evening included organic wines, both red and white, along with Tuscan beans in tomato sauce, fresh fava beans with pecorino, grilled vegetables, cheeses, both goat and cow, of the area, potato salad with chard, and green salad. What a delightful way to begin the week.

For breakfast this morning was an organic bread, butter and honey of the area and a focaccia which we brought from Noli.

Oh, and as the strawberries arrive on your tables this spring, try them sprinkled with a little sugar with a touch of lemon. YUM!

Our week has begun under the gray Tuscan skies.

The next adventure? To see a bee keeper, wine maker, lunch in the Tuscan hills and back to the villa to prepared tonight's feast.

Ciao, Cindy

Asparagus? It Must Be Spring

2010-04-23T14:47:00.002+02:00

Sunday, one of those beautiful Provencal spring days. Our village had a festival---Fête de l'Asperge.

The Place Aux Plantanes was bustling with local producers,

olive oils,

wines,

flowers,

freshly baked breads

(Joe talking with the baker)

and asparagus.

The covered fields in our area are producing white, green and purple asparagus, so freshly picked that the flavors of spring burst forth.

Local restaurants tempted us with asparagus laden foods----

Lisa M's with her wonderful salad menu and my selection,

and asparagus omelets freshly made by Le Versoise

As the people sat with friends in the Place for lunch, an accordionist added lively music and those around him enjoyed joining in the festivities.

One gentlemen set up his purple covered table along with his bottle of wine on his terrasse to watch over the festivities.

But to me, the most fun of the day came late in the afternoon when local cooks arrived with their asparagus creations.

Waiting to be judged or putting on the last finishing touches

the chefs anxiously watch as their creations are tasted by a panel of judges.

Each dish was carefully observed, tasted, and savored before the scores were recorded.

Along with our mayor, Marc Poulon, and another gentleman (who must have been important as he was in a suit!), Lisa Muncan of our innovative local restaurant, Lisa M and Jérome Nuile of the two star Le Castellas in Collias, enjoyed tasting each creation.

Alas, only three winners------and as I took so many pictures, my camera died, therefore, no pictures of those winners.

Next year, if you are visiting us in spring, don't miss Vers Pont du Gard's Fête de l'Asperge. We will meet you for lunch.

Enjoy,

Cindy
Thank you, Eva and all your helpers, who put on such a delightful fête.

Where, Oh, Where?

2010-04-12T10:14:00.004+02:00

As many of you know, in Colorado I have an entire wall of enclosed storage for my large serving items, dishware, glasses, and things and foods I love to use for cooking and entertaining. When we bought our home here, the kitchen had a very old sink of unknown character We had to add everything. Very simply, I have a minimal area, not an American kitchen.

In our kitchen this is my open area to store things. I do not have large serving bowls, platters, or trays even though in the summer in the courtyard we have had 15 for dinner. Everything is used to serve.

Yesterday, a beautiful Spring morning, we ambled through the countryside, visited Medieval villages where you might be able to get one car thru the passages, and discovered a brocante (flea market). Now, brocantes are like magnets---they pull us in. I know there must be that perfect treasure. It was waiting for us---two wooden bookcases to place our many books. Alas, someone had already acquired that treasure. However, on a table with a very eager gentleman, a soup tureen which would be perfect for vegetables, salads, soup, even a plant. Yes, very multipurpose. And only---

I knew it was for us, as did that eager gentleman (I know his wife had told him not to bring any of "that" junk home!) Before we realized it, we had bought that tureen...

and a few more things for the bargain price of 10 Euros.

Eight soup plates, twelve dinner plates, two small casseroles were now ours. Ah, but that was not all,

there are twelve more plates, not quit the same pattern. Twenty-four people will be able to join us for dinner and the eager gentleman and his wife are happy.

Our dilemma, where will this new dinnerware find a home? Ah, brocantes, you never know what you will need!

Á la prochaine,

Cindy

Just Smile

2010-04-09T16:11:00.000+02:00

In the last hour, we welcomed Spring.

The weather today is gorgeous and the open windows are letting the warmth in.

We walked out of town to make the acquaintance of a delightfully curious donkey. Look carefully to see his donkey window in the fence with a comfortable place to rest his neck. Alas, I am sure he was expecting a carrot, however, we just had fresh grasses.

Entering the village, drums sounded in the distance along with a gaggle of children's voices The park was alive with children all in colorful costumes. Soon a line formed and a parade through the village began.

Inquiring as to the occasion, I was told it was a celebration to rid the troubles of winter and to welcome the warm spring. What fun to see all the little ones from the Vers School in their many costumes of medieval maidens, knights, and of course, brides and football (soccer players) enjoying this spring day.

As we enjoyed the sound of laughter and tambourines, we were a welcome target for glitter and confetti.

And one last taste of spring from the morning market.........

Á bientôt,

Cindy

A good, professional haircut

2010-04-06T11:14:00.001+02:00

Pruning is complete! We all say that with a sigh of relief---especially Amy. With her editing the American edition of the French wine book she works with, tasting hundreds of wines and reviewing each for this year's edition, and pruning all of their vineyards, the beginning of her year has been busy.
For those of you who knew we were coming to prune, here is the process.

The vines, after being picked last fall, reveal that they really have had a bad hair day. The tendrils cling to the wires supporting them and the canes intertwine along these wires and amongst other canes to create a maze of growth.

Molly and I went along and pre-trimmed the vines leaving the vine looking like it had a fresh, spring butch hair cut. The canes are thrown into one row in order that Matt can mulch them.

And following us came the real pruners---Joe, Amy, Axel (our neighbor), Matt and Billy who did he final trimming. The buds on the vines are ready to burst with some warm weather and the fresh cuts dripped clear liquid sap.

The final pruning needs many decisions. There should be only six healthy shoots remaining, if possible the shoot should be the lowest on the branch in order to make it stronger, and it should be cut on the third bud up from the stem.

The vines are now just the bones of what will be. They march row after row in the fields waiting for the warmth of the sun. Meanwhile, the yellow of the dandelions shines in each row.

And the little abandoned house in the vineyard is alive with forsy(n)thia.

I hope that the sun is warming your earth and that you all had a wonderful Easter/Passover.

Bisous,

Cindy

We Join Gina for a Truffle Dinner

2010-02-06T16:42:00.000+01:00

From our window at Maison Trevier, we viewed the courtyard which must delightful on a summer's evening. This day the wind captured the chill in the air. We did not know that in that blue bag on the table were the vegetables, picked two hours before from a friend's garden, that we would be eating this evening for dinner. They waited to be drenched in truffles.

Gina Trevier, the proprietress of the maison, had a wine bar in Paris until she escaped four years ago to Province.

As we entered her kitchen, warm Rooibos was being brewed (a "tea" from South Africa). Our aprons were on and we were ready to help in the preparation of our meal.

We began by cleaning the newly harvested vegetables while Gina seared the veal that would lie on a bed of cardoons.

A new vegetable for us, cardoons are a member of the artichoke family. They look like celery, however, were in places prickly and the bottom of the plant was the jewel, as is the heart of the artichoke. We cleaned the stalks, cut them into two inch lengths, and left them in a baton, larger than a matchstick. These were placed in the pot the veal had been seared in along with onions for a long slow cooking.

The jewel tones of the baby Swiss chard were cleaned next and placed in a steamer to await a final dressing of olive oil infused with truffles.

Next, we began to prepare our starter. With the help of a small grater, truffles were shredded into butter along with Parmesan cheese.

With warm toast, the earthy, pungent, indescribable aroma of the truffle permeated the room.

The next toast had olive oil topped with thinly sliced truffles. Oh, yes, and with wine these were all delicious.

The cheese course, which all French tables include, was a fresh sheep cheese, which had been covered with a truffle infused olive oil and covered in order that the truffle aroma would saturate the cheese.

Alas, the dessert had no truffles but was a delicious chocolate bar along with a Muscat.
Gina's foods were simple with fresh garden tastes. Until you savor the freshness of newly picked produce, you cannot imagine how wonderful it is. Joe enjoyed every minute.

Truffle season begins in November in Provence. January is the month for the truffle market. Save up your pennies, well, maybe dollars and meet us at the market next year. And stop at Maison Trevier in Carpentras for a truffle cooking class and dinner.

Thank you, Gina, for a delightful evening and morning at the Truffle Market.

Guess I'll go have my peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Salut!

Cindy

Fungi or Candy?

2010-01-31T20:41:00.002+01:00

A truffle, Webster's dictionary says, is "the dark or light edible subterranean fruiting body of several European ascomycetous fungi." Gourmands say it is gold!

Truffles are harvested in southern France with the help of dogs and pigs who follow the scent of this pungent fungi. Those who hunt this fungi guard their areas, usually around the oak trees, for the treasures that grow at their feet.

Two weekends in January, we observed the Truffle Market in Uzes. Last years post, Two Americans Loose in France 2009
and another quite different one in Carpentras about an hour away.
The Uzes market began with Sophie, a huge, gorgeous pig, who sniffed her way through the soil which had been brought into the market place. Attended by her owner, who watched her carefully, Sophie discovered many previously hidden truffles and was rewarded for her diligent work.

I think she even smiled, proud of her excellent skills.

The Uzes market gathered people from near and far who looked for that perfect, precious gem---a diamant noir, black diamond. The most important sign of that truffle is its fragrance, color, and lack of any dirt to add unnecessary weight to the fungus.

In contrast, the Carpentras market begins when the clock high in the ancient Hotel Dieu tower, strikes nine.

Sellers of truffles, carefully guarding their bags of the found gems, gather at tables.
Professional buyers stream into the area to examine, smell, touch the truffle and some buyers, knife in hand, take a small sliver to observe the inside color. Why? A freeze had frozen some truffes and flavors had suffered.

Buyers walked around with all sorts of bags, plastic, muslin, calico bulging with their finds.

Bargains were struck and some sellers returned home with a pocket filled with money.

All this took place in ten minutes (add another 10 minutes for this day as buyers were being careful not to purchase the frozen truffles whose flavors had suffered)..

The price this year?

That is 1000 euros for a kilo. (a kilo is 2.2 pounds) It is no wonder the buyers are so careful with their purchases.

Now, for our Christmas present from the girls. We, along with Gina Trevier of Maison Trevier, cooked a complete dinner using truffles of the region. Just wait to see!

Salut!
Cindy

Oh, and the other Webster's definition of truffle? "A candy made of chocolate, butter, sugar, and sometimes liqueur shaped into balls and often coated with cocoa." Yum!

Still Stories To Tell

2010-01-25T01:00:00.003+01:00

The Champagne is empty.

The flowers, well, they are bedraggled and

after cleaning the house today so am I. We are off to an early train and three flights arriving in Colorado Springs about 11 PM. Ugh!

But we will be back---in May (and another unique adventure!).

Cindy

A Walk to Meet a New Friend

2010-01-24T06:58:00.001+01:00

Wednesday evening we enjoyed the company of our neighbors, Pierre and Albert.

With the help of Amy and Matt, who speak superb French, we learned more of the history of our house and village. Pierre would visit his grandparents here during summer vacation (their home just two doors away). Each morning he would venture down the road to Le Tonnellerie to watch the barrel making process. He, during all of his visits to the building, had only been about ten feet inside the door. Oil stains remain on our fireplace from the barrel maker's tools and our ceiling still has soot from him burning the inside of the barrels.

I decided I needed to introduce myself to the former owner of our home.
Early Thursday morning, I walked down the path,

Past the ancient walls dripping with ivy,

Seeing doors opening to ?????,

Peaking over the wall to the garden of the chateau,

Viewing the empty fields waiting for the summer's seeds,

Walking over the once very busy railroad tracks,

Down the rain soaked road,

To the cemetery.

I walked slowly down the grand allée

to anxious meet Victor Brouzet, my new dear friend and former proprietor of La Tonnellerie.

Amazingly, Victor and I had met in this same place two days earlier when I had visited, but we didn't know what we know now.

Can you imagine how many barrels those hands have produced to hold the wines of the Côte du Rhône?

I was so pleased to meet and talk with Victor. I would like to have a glass of Amy's Rhone wine with him. Now, our home has a personality.
Thank you, Pierre and Albert.

À la prochaine,
Cindy

I Love a Sale!

2010-01-16T17:33:00.001+01:00

I love a sale. I mean, I really enjoy finding that perfect bargain of something I just cannot live without. I couldn't live without this silver tray from Goodwill which was originally $10.00. I waited until it was 75% off and now it holds the winter clementines.

In France, sales are different. No watching the Sunday paper, collecting the occasional flyer, or hearing from your neighbor of a coming sale. Sales are determined by the government----only twice a year. Casa began their sale with extra savings. We had to go early as we really "needed" coffee cups.

This year the first sale occurs between January 6th and February 9th, about six weeks long.

Now, all stores have their signs posted---

some in bright, jazzy print,

others on a piece of cloth, (My absolutely favorite store---Atelier des Ours )

while others handwritten on a piece of paper. (Well, this one is also my absolutely favorite---Lola Rossa

a fabulous store for hand work.)

Sales are wonderful. Time is running short. I must get shopping or wait until the next sale----in the summer. I just don't know how I will last six months. (I did find a tablecloth, needle holder, notebook, and metal garland on sale. I think I shall have to investigate more tomorrow.) It is a long time until the next savings.

Á la prochaine,

Cindy

It Almost Stopped!

2010-01-11T12:53:00.001+01:00

Two things I adore doing are sitting at a long dining table with friends eating and discussing the world and....

going to the lively Saturday market in Uzés.

This Saturday, however, was a sight I have never seen. The Place aux Herbes was snow covered, quiet and without its normal excitement and activity.

Terriors, our favorite outdoor restaurant, hadn't even opened its doors.

There was the pasta and Italian cheese vendor,

three fish sellers,

(Can you imagine how cold her hands are, but, how oh, so delicious those fresh scallops will taste.)

one hat and ear muff salesman who was constantly busy! Don't you love the bright umbrella for display?

Snow had curtailed the market. No wine, honey, fresh mushrooms, linens, purses, pork, and all the other vendors who were at home warm in front of the fire.

Yes, meeting friends, we did find one café that had remained open and were ready for us to warm ourselves.

Next Saturday the market will be taken over by pigs, omelets, scales, and strange little gems called truffles. I can't wait. For lunch Saturday, our son in law prepared delicious scrambled eggs with the first truffle of the season which was given to Amy by Francoise, a choir friend. YUM!

Here, a lady, buys a truffle at the market.A scale which was constantly cleaned and a brush dusting away dirt for true weight are the buyer's friend. Next week we will find out the going price for these treasures.

I do hope it warms up for next weeks fête.

Cindy

Ah, Provence...

2010-01-09T09:55:00.001+01:00

Ah, the south of France. Close your eyes and picture that small café, the bustling crowds at the market, the warm coffee to take the chill from the early morning.

Now, picture a blustery snowstorm, covering those tables with six inches of snow, bending the trees in a wild dance,

and drinking hot chocolate in front of a warm fire.

Glistening pods twirl like ornaments from the plane tree in our neighbor's garden.

I viewed that snowstorm in my warm slippers. Pictures were taken through the windows and I cuddled in my blanket with my book, The Dream of Scipio.

The cypress which reaches toward the sun in Provence---now bends, snow pulling it downward swaying in the harsh winds.

The lonely sounds of northern winds gusting tumbling snow through the air, swaying branches in its shivery roar.

Schools closed for two days in anticipation of winter's wrath. Our street shows signs of some brave ones who walk to the boulangerie for their morning breads, head tucked low against the gale.

Lights disappeared several times leaving us enjoying the glow of candlelight.

Silence returns this morning to our village. The winds have gone their way and the sky, still gray, offers hopes of warmer weather and -----Spring, which is on its way----soon!

I hope you are all warm and enjoying you view.

Cindy

One of Those Perfect Days....

2009-12-30T18:17:00.040+01:00

Yes, Christmas Eve day was about as perfect as one can ask for. It didn't rain, the sky was intermittently blue, and the day was full of surprises.

We all, except Billy who was working, hopped on the train into London. Our first stop the
Borough Market to shop for beef for dinner. This market has been in the same place for 250 years and is the London's oldest market. Ah, the foods! Not at all like Safeway. Walk through the market with me.

Gammon, which we had for brunch, is a fresh ham.

...and a taste of mulled wine?

A wonderful market to buy your fresh gammon.

You don't even have to bake these game pies.

Have your choice of freshly baked breads.

A floral bouquet will brighten any table.

A wide choice of seasonal animals.

Turkey will definitely be on many British tables.

Our bags were filled with a standing rib roast, fresh dill, and English cheeses from Neal's Yard.

Off we went, walking to lunch. Meeting a friend of the girls who they swam with at the University of Denver, we had a delightful English lunch.

And now for the surprise, off to Shakespeare's Globe Theater. We were going to see Footsbarn's Christmas Cracker.

(A cracker is found at the English dinner table. One holds one end, crosses arms with your neighbor and pulls ones neighbor's cracker and ones own. A pop, and a small trinket emerges along with a crown and a note with jokes to share.)

The Globe is a re-creation of the original Globe spearheaded by American, Sam Wanamaker. One would originally pay one penny to be a groundling and stand in the pit by the stage. The price increased by a penny with each flight up you sat. We were at the verrrrrry top! (Today, I don't think these remain the highest price seats) Now, as this is as close to the original as possible, the roof is open to the sky and dripping at times.

One could rent a blanket and of course, a cushion to sit on the hard boards.
The place was wonderful---great costumes, comical characters, and a wonderful way to spend a Christmas Eve afternoon.

After the performance we were back on the train to Egham, all ready to cook our evening dinner and

wait for Santa. (I cannot get this picture to turn the correct way!) He did find us all.
....A perfect Christmas Eve Day and evening with my family. What a gift to remember.

Cindy

...T'is the Night Before Christmas....

2009-12-24T06:58:00.020+01:00

From England we wish you a...................

The fire tries to take the chill from the air and we wait patiently for the stockings to be hung.

Maggie sits waiting for Santa to slip down the chimney.

Snowflakes fell creating a slippery path down Egham hill to the village and train.

Village streets are narrow with trees at a precarious angle above.

Molly's food box has arrived from the English countryside. The treasures inside? Bacon, gammon, sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, onions, garlic, butter, eggs. We are almost ready.

A lingering stop at Neal's Yard for our English cheeses. The crowd gathers for a tiny taste to find the perfect country cheese for the holiday table. Now to savor!

Carnaby Street continues to have the flavor of yesteryears. It brought smiles.

Finally, I read The Christmas Carol and saw Scrooge flying above the streets of London.

No snow right now for Christmas---just London rain. Poor snowman!

Cookies were made---and all of them have been eaten. Some did arrive at the neighbors' doorsteps.

We wish all a .....

Happy Christmas to all. May your holiday be filled with good friends, foods, and lots of laughter!

Cindy

The Time is Near

2009-12-15T03:49:00.010+01:00

It's shivery in Colorado! Our Christmas tree this year is covered in snow. We have one for the little animals who visit our yard and one for all the neighbors.

Hanging from our chandelier is a wonderful creche made by our dear French friends, Sophie and Benedikt. It floats with each breeze that passes.

Our wreath is silhouetted in the window framing our snow covered yard.

Ah, but tomorrow, with our bags packed, we will be on our way to England. Molly is having all of us for the Christmas holiday. And after Boxing Day, we will go to France with Amy and Matt. I think they have some vineyard pruning parties planned.

We will miss going to NORAD and reporting to the children (and some big childrentoo) Santa's location in the world. On Christmas Eve, follow Santa on his journey at noradsanta.org And if you have time call and get an up to the minute location of his sleigh.

Last year, sitting in the airport parking lot, our dear friends, Kathy and Pete brought champagne to toast the holiday season. Maybe tomorrow????
More adventures are ahead of us. Christmas in England is an adventure in itself.

My letter has been written to Santa and mailed. I did want him to know where we will be this year.

Cheers!
Cindy

Market Day and .....

2009-09-25T06:27:00.034+02:00

my basket was full. Amy's first comment was not to give the mum to anyone as it was a sign that there has been a death.

Florence, my neighbor, sells at the market each week her wonderful array of colors.

Friends meet and discuss the adventures of the day.

Some conversations are more animated!

It was a beautiful fall day, but difficult to decide whether to dress warm,

or cool.

If you are selling delicious chevre cheese, you must wear your heels.

However if you are buying, wear glittery comfort.

After you have purchased your cheese, visit the wine maker from our village for that perfect bottle of wine.

This gentleman was a little chilly.

Ah, but not being sure of the weather, this gentleman dressed for all.

Polka dots always make a day brighter.

Or maybe you wish to wear your tulle.

As is the style of the south, you may wish to dress in layers.

This lovely lady is always at the market selling the wines of her convent.

No matter your age,

you will always find your place at the market.

Wasn't it fun to have your morning coffee with me at the Wednesday market?
Listen to the markets sounds below. Join me on Saturday?

Des journées européenes du patrimoine

2009-09-21T13:25:00.015+02:00

Everyone waits for the third weekend in September. There are discussions about where one will go. The streets fill on that Saturday and Sunday. The event? Many (I know, I was going to say "all", but as we know there are always exceptions!) of the public buildings are open free or at reduced cost to enter. On Friday night we talked with Amy and Matt's friend at dinner. Serge listed so many places to visit that it will take us the next couple of years.

Saturday morning we "had" to go to the market, if for no other reason than to have coffee and a treat. Yes, we visited Savarin and here are those delicacies. YUM!

That afternoon we visited the duchy in the neighboring village of Uzés. It played an important role in France. It is the first duchy and still is the residence of the Duke, who we happened to talk with upon entering. This duke was very important in the time of the kings. He was the one who announced, "The king is dead, long live the king." That is a n important role. The most important member of the family to me was Anne du Mortenmart who was the first woman in France to get a driver's license and was later fined for speeding at 15 kilometers per hour. (Now how did they record that speed?)

The hike, no climb, no tortuous accent to the top of the tower was rewarded by an amazing view of the city. What fun it was to see from the sky places we had only known from the ground. The decent was again an adventure as two people could not pass each other on the stairs without one stepping into one of the three outlets on the way up or down.

Saturday evening a symphony concert was held at La Maison de la Pierre, house of stone, in our village. The Avignon symphony, conducted by American, Jonathon Schiffman, was wonderful and there was standing room only.

Sunday found us on the way to Orange. It is about 45 minutes north of us and an early Roman city. The Romans must have "roamed" this entire area as our village has the quarries for the Pont du Gard built in 19 AD and Orange has the most amazing theater, Théâtre Antique d'Orange built in the first centuryAD. How? I'll never know. The stage is immense. Plays were preformed using masks for different characters. One actor may play up to five roles in a play. Hand gestures were very important and the fold of the clothes meant different things. The actors were from the very lowest class, however, everyone attended these spectacles. Today, the theater is still used, especially for the opera season. I can't wait to go.

The entrance fee to each of these disappeared for the weekend.

Last week I read that this will be happening in the US next Saturday lead by the Smithsonian Magazine. Check this website for information on your town. There are a lot of free entries to amazing places and parks. Museum Day and National Public Lands Day

If you are in Europe the third weekend of September, remember to celebrate by visiting one of these or hundreds of other attractions.

Á bientôt,
Cindy

I'm Tired But Not From........

2009-09-08T20:18:00.014+02:00

No, it is not from picking grapes.....

It is not from cooking for 25 people a day.....

It is not from cleaning up my mess.....

It is not from all the dishes.....

It is not from all the recycling I accumulated.....

It is from spending 36 hours with a delightful couple from Lorraine,France who speak very little English and me trying to speak my limited French. Italians use their hands and so did I trying to explain what I meant. We did have a "good" conversation about Obama and Sarkozy. It would not have made the editorial columns. Mireille and Christian have gone onto Montpelier to visit their daughter.

I took a nap!

Back to the vineyards tomorrow.

Cindy

It Has Begun....

2009-09-02T17:43:00.000+02:00

Well, the getting ready has begun and is done. The first call of the morning came from Amy and Matt in the vineyard. " Will you come out and help us take a grape sampling?" It was a gorgeous morning, therefore, how could we say no? We wondered through the vineyard each with a plastic bag in hand. Not looking at the grapes, we plucked randomly from the bunches, tasting along the way. These grapes would go to the oenologist to tell us when our picking should begin.

Stopping at our house, the neighbors gathered in the street to hear when the picking would begin. The giggles rose from the group and others stopped to know what was happening. Yes, the picking should begin on Thursday.

Our next adventure---or should I say chore, was to pull everything out of storage, clean and stack the crates ready to go on the truck for the vineyard.

First came the crates that will hold all of those juicy grapes as they are picked from the vines. They had to come up from the storage in the grenier (attic) to the top of the cuve (where the wine is made). Down a ladder they were passed and stacked in the courtyard ready for loading on the truck.

Next came the cleaning of the secateurs . Some had escaped cleaning last fall and needed to be refreshed.

A barrel had to be hoisted to the top of the cuve to be filled along with three others with wine waiting to be bottled. The vat that was emptied had to be cleaned in order that the grapes picked on Friday have a home. The larger concrete vats were also cleaned and a disinfectant put on then totally rinsed out.

It was a long day. We spilled a little wine, got a little wet, but accomplished a lot.

In the evening we returned to Amy's, not for work, but to play Mah Jongg!

On last Friday we picked the Roussanne which is a white grape. See Amy's blog, La Gramiere.com to watch a video on the pressing. This is all sweet, sticky juice that the bees enjoyed.

Sunday we picked a few rows of grenache to make rosé. It will remain on the skins a very short time so that the color will be a wonderful pink/red. I have my glass ready. As you can see, my hands are acquiring the wonderful colors of the grape. Actually, they just look dirty.

Picking has been changed to Friday. Amy is going to Paris on Thursday for the party on launching "her" wine book. (It will be published in the US this fall in English.)

My recipes are gathered, the market visited, and cooking is taking place everyday. Friday, Saturday and Sunday we should have between 20 to 30 wonderful volunteers to provide a picnic lunch for in the vineyard. (Actually, we do it everyday.) As you can imagine, after a morning of picking, each one will be very hungry.

The weather is cooler, thank goodness. One more day and the rush begins!

Á bientôt,
Cindy

Le Weekend Begins

2009-08-29T14:44:00.013+02:00

And it began with a party, our second annual neighborhood party. Invitations had been handed out to all the residences on six different streets to join together, each bringing a "plat salé ou sucre"(a plate salty or sweet) and a drink. When I say six streets, some may have only 2 homes, while ours has six houses.

Late afternoon was warm----no hot. The village would allow us to use their tables and chairs, however, we had to bring them to our street. Joe and four others were given that job. The tables are three meters (3 yards + ) long each weighing about 80 pounds. Chairs were gathered and a beer had to be had to solve the next dilemma.

There was one problem during the late afternoon and five men gathered to solve it. How to hang one light to highlight our featured art of the evening.

Our dining area is across the street, right in front of our home where there is a small place bumped out in the road. It is perfect for an evening under the stars. After the tables were carefully placed, the decorating began. Votives from Molly's wedding, plants for the tables, Michel's wonderful paintings, pictures from others home, lanterns from others, and music to fill the air.

Seven bells rang from the church tower and people began to ga ther, bottles of wines and fresh foods in hand. Albert and Pierre arrived with their vin d'orange and sangria for all to savor. The air was filled with voices of old and new friendships. The evening air was alive with conversations. Finally, Axel presented his "wursts" which he had brought from Germany and grilled in the courtyard. Each plate began to be filled with fresh salads, tarts, fruits of the countryside. Wine filled glasses with toasts to the evening.

As darkness descended, candles glowed from each table and the windows of our house. Twelve o'clock arrives with conversations continuing to fill the evening. Alas, eyes grew tired and silence returned to the street.

As I opened the shutters this morning, I wondered, was it all a pleasant dream? Ah, no, as the neighbors passed the window this morning, each stopped to say what a wonderful evening!

It's Brocante Day

2009-08-23T13:31:00.007+02:00

Sunday, yes, it is the day to travel to Uzès for the brocante, the flea market. As some of you know when we bought the house, we would spend every Sunday at the brocante finding treasures to dress up the house.

Today, we found a wonderful chair for the courtyard. Never mind that the seat has rusted through. As you can see Joe is overwhelmed with excitement for the purchase.

Yes, I do know exactly where it will go. A plant on the seat and tucked in the corner it now has a new home. I think for evening a candle would create the perfect effect.

Three small glasses at the wonderful price of 70 centimes made their way to our house, also. They are joined by a bottle of homemade mirabelle, a digestive (actually, it burns a hole right through all of the food you have eaten). It was made from a small yellow mirabelle plum and is a speciality of the area Joe was in to balloon.

And next Sunday? I am sure there will be some new irresistible treasures!

Á bientôt,

Cindy

I Don't Think I Can

2009-08-19T14:12:00.004+02:00

I just don't think so. When the temperature will reach 35 degrees C (about 100 degrees F) today, I don't think I can be French if.........

I have to wear a scarf!

These lovely people were at the market this morning.

Stay cool,
Cindy

And There Are Two Days Left!

2009-08-17T07:38:00.015+02:00

For six days out of the year, it is not a quiet village. The Fête Votive awakens everyone for miles around to descend on our little hamlet. The Carmargue horses with their cowboys in vivid shirts arrive with their bulls to run around the town Place with the young of the villages following trying to capture the bull and wrestle him down to street level. This doesn't happen just once a day, but three times with villagers gathering behind the gates, some standing outside to challenge the wandering bull. (Now those brave ones, amazingly, when the bull comes into view scatter to find their home behind the bars.) The ambulance awaits the challenger who does not avoid the bull. The siren has remained silent. Five to six hundred people gather to watch and cheer those who follow the bull. The cowboy or girl is ever present on his or her agile horse to keep the pursuer and pursued safe.

Two mornings at 9:30 a lunch (more like breakfast) was served. Tables were set up in the street, a barbeque had hot sausages, our baker's bread held the hot treasure, potato chips, and of course, wine.

The best part of Saturday afternoon was the Mousse in the Place du Marché. All gathered anticipating the foam which would emerge onto the dance floor. Music filled the air and bubbles poured out onto the crowd. What fun for those from 2 to 82.

The sky glowed with the flashing carnival lights. All wonder among the many games and rides, knowing there will be treasures to win. And at 10:00 PM the band and singers begin and go and go and go until at least 2 or 3 in the morning.

Returning to our courtyard, much earlier then 2 AM, we discovered that the music crashed into our lives, not to disappear until early morning. Listen below to what we could hear each evening in our "quiet" part of the world.

Two days remain!

Á bientôt,
Cindy

Six Whole Days!!!???!!!

2009-08-13T17:07:00.024+02:00

A schedule of events arrived at our door with six, yes, six days of festivities.

I think something is about to happen in our village of Vers Pont du Gard. The road in front of our house is one way. Now, as some of you know when you step out the front door you need to be sure to look to the right and beware. Alas, the "do not enter one way signs"( our street is on the right) are covered with black garbage bags and traffic is zooming past in both directions (rather difficult when there is only room for one car at a time!).

Large fences circle the Place des Platanes. Soon they will be moved to tightly close the street from any wondering bulls.

Chairs are stacked in the Place and cooking on an open grill are four carcasses turning a golden brown. Under each lamb is a large pan of beans and other vegetables catching all of the warm drippings. The spits are rotating slowly, powered by car batteries. In our courtyard, the aroma arrives to hungry tummies.

Outside of the bar, tables fill the plaza. After the big boule competition, all followed the stone way to the bar to celebrate the victor. Ah, one of the finalist was a young lady who did very well against the harden gentleme n.

In the Place du Marché, which is one street behind our home, a carnival and stage are in place.

This evening there were drinks down our street in the Place. Whiskey, pastis, wine from our mayor's vineyard along with soft drinks for the villagers to enjoy. A Provencal band entertained all well into the evening.

Six days! Two of our neighbors have their bags packed to escape the village for the weekend. Two other neighbors found ear plugs at the pharmacy. We have heard that at 3 AM we will be able to dance to the evening's music in our courtyard. This will be an adventure. We shall experience another bit of summer village life.

Now, do you think our local statue is also thinking about how he can escape? I wonder.

If you click on any of the pictures they will become larger. Listen to the music below. Enjoy

À bientôt,
Cindy

Step back in Time...

2009-08-12T15:10:00.012+02:00

The sky, azure blue, the winds, gentle, the sun, pouring forth warmth, and we, walking up the narrow passage to Châteauneuf du Pape. It is the Medieval Fête de la Véraison, a festival celebrating the first show of color on the grapes. The town is filled to its crest with happy people, tasting wine, purchasing medieval trinkets, and enjoying the many costumed participants.

The town was the escape for seven different popes who ruled the church in the 1300's and needed a rest from their duties in the Papal Palace in the bustling city of Avignon about 15 kilometers away. It was a wonderful location high on a hill overlooking the vines that they enjoyed drinking. Quite convenient!

The castle (new by the regions standards) was partially destroyed in 1944 when an ammunition reserve for the Germans was blown up as their troops were being taken over. Left standing was the tower which is now the symbol of the wines in the region. Looking at these vineyards, I am very happy not to harvest the grapes or prune the vines. Each row is filled with rocks as big as your fist! Ugh! But oh, does the area produce good wines.

The village air was filled with music provided by many wandering musicians. As it was an extremely warm, no hot day, the gentleman provided relief with cool water from a thumb pot. He dips the pot in a barrel of water, places his thumb over the hole in the top, and releases his thumb over the head of a very hot visitor and cool water gently pours forth. It is pure relief from the sun.

The Frison horses click through the village pulling a wagon with barrels filled with the Châteauneuf wines. As the horses patiently wait, glasses are poured for those to enjoy.

A delightful day, yes. A day back in time. This festival is always the beginning of the anticipation of a bountiful harvest.

Á bientôt,

Cindy

An Interlude...

2009-08-04T09:34:00.015+02:00

Arriving in the south of France, we had no where to put our heads. As we decided to come earlier than expected, we had rented our house to some delightful Canadians. They will be on their way home Thursday, and we shall move into our home in Vers.

We are staying in the apartment that extends from Amy's house and sits over the area where she stores her wines. It is a great apartment. As you can see, as we enter, the railing is faux bois, fake wood. The metal edging on the roof tells of a different era as do the windows that cast light on the stairs.

A small kitchen is big enough to turn around. The two other rooms remind us of another time. Long French doors open to oversee the green courtyard. In winter the room tries to be warmed by the stove, but alas, is not very effective. The walls have been stripped of their former wallpaper, leaving an amazing coral color with texture that can't be duplicated today. The baseboard was carefully painted on the wall echoing the wallpaper. When we first saw the apartment heavy dark velvet drapes remained at the windows. Today they are free of their darkness.

The tiles are designs of the region. Each creating its own identity to a room.

The most important room contains a bathtub perfect for a gnome. Yes, there is a place to sit, however, do not plan to stretch out and dream.

As we look out over the vineyards, the sun settles in the western sky. The bed is so comfortable morning arrives too early. As you can see, Matt's little green chair is a perfect step for me to tumble into bed.

Such a delightful place to spend an interlude.

À bientôt,

Cindy

Meet Elmo!

2009-07-31T09:31:00.006+02:00

Yes, meet, Elmo. He arrived at Amy's about a month ago----our new granddog. He is such fun. Of course, his first toy had to be an Elmo, which he was very happy to receive. Sorry the picture is a little fuzzy, but everything is in constant motion.

He is a Hovawort, just like Daisy. He comes from northern France and was a guard dog. Becoming a part of this family was very easy for Elmo.

I think the other Elmo was a little shocked, however, with his introduction to his friend, Elmo.

À bientôt,

Cindy

Moules Frites, Anyone?

2009-07-30T09:33:00.007+02:00

The warm breezes of the Mediterranean greeted me as I got off the plane in Montpellier, the largest airport closest to where we live. My red bags all arrived this time and Amy greeted me with "Let's go have moules frites. Bouziques is only twenty minutes away!"

I guess the adventure has begun. Walking down the small village street, one side lined with outdoor cafes, the other side the shore, we were disappointed to find her favorite place closed for the day. Alas, that did not stop us. We found a cafe that served the moules (mussels) we could see growing in the bay. Ordering a bottle of white wine, we impatiently awaited the black pot that would contain our lunch.

The frites (French fries) arrived first and then the steaming hot moules floating in cream were placed before us. Taking a small shell in one hand we used it as "pinchers"to remove the sweet mussel from the other shells. Ah, were they delicious. With the gentle winds cooling us, it did not take long to empty the pot and leave only the shells.

Off in the distance we could see the posts that the mussels are farmed on. They are attached to ropes that spiral around the piling. There is a mesh that covers the growing babies, waiting to be harvested. The bay at Bouziques is a haven for mussel farming.

After a leisurely lunch, we were off to Amy's for what I thought would be a quiet evening. Ha!

á bientôt,
Cindy

I know it all will fit!

2009-07-27T01:43:00.007+02:00

I now know what it is like living in England. We have had so much rain that our designation of a cool desert is in jeopardy. Yesterday, Pikes Peak had a dusting of snow. According to legend, we will have snow down here within six weeks. Our field is green, the sunflowers are peaking out , the trumpet vine has reached new heights, and the pumpkin vine will be stretching across the yard within the next week.

Pikes Peak is on the horizon. Oh, you don't see it, well imagine what it looks like as the sky is turning dark. Listen carefully and you can hear it rumble. The raindrops are again tumbling to earth and sharp light dashes across the angry sky. What great weather for more weeds.

Joe left last week for a hot air balloon festival in Lorraine, the northeast section of France . He is flying with our good friend, Dave Johnson, from England. Can you imagine flying with two pilots in one balloon????? ht tp://www.pilatre-de-rozier.com/
I leave tomorrow to travel to Amy's. Our house is rented until August 6th, so I will have to work for my keep. I imagine that she has my list made.

Will everything fit? That is my carry on. It is stuffed. I still have eight more pounds I can place in one bag. The other bag has not been weighed.

I hope all of you are having a wonderful summer. Now, I know these white daisies will be yellow sunflowers when I arrive in the south of France.

Enjoy!
Cindy

Oh, YUM!

2009-04-15T00:56:00.011+02:00

Too Small!

Oh, dear, way too small.

Ah, that is just about right.....to fill with all the sweets one needs to purchase. Where are we
you ask? Why, visiting the Haribo Museum and shop in the neighboring town of Uzes.. You know, the delicious Goldbears, Happy Cola, Rotella, Berries. All are a child's dream! That's why we visit! And yes, visitor's to the museum actually fill the roll around baskets with sweet treats to take home.

The museum is a treasure of the history of candy making especially of the Gold Bears. And as one travels thru the exhibits, you are able to taste some of Haribo's creations.

At the end of your adventure, there is a wonderful store where you can taste and purchase some of their sweets. Yes, Joe was like the kid in the candy store trying to decide on the perfect treat. Alas, there was no chocolate, but I got my favorite licorice Rotellas. Yum! It is one of my first stops when visiting our area.

Watching people exit the store is another adventure as they have made so many wonderful choices that the bags and boxes become very heavy. Be prepared for lots of fun, treasures and....

Smiles!
Cindy

Yellow to Orange to Purple to White

2009-03-31T16:25:00.013+02:00

In the neighboring village of Uzes during the Truffle Festival, tables were set outside in the Place aux Herbes for the once a year truffle dinner. Each menu had truffles used in unique ways (ours was the hamburger with slices of truffles. See my previous post.). Each table was adorned with the winter yellow mimosa blossoms and fresh oranges. We had the burst of yellow blossoms on our table at home, a wonderful inspiration for writing on a chilly winter's day. Trees had the beginnings of the tiny vibrant blossoms.

The market was filled with the orange of the citrus winter fruit. Oranges appeared decorating tables, in candle holders, and carried with the green of the tree in market bags.

Now, the wisteria hangs gently over the ancient stone walls of the villages. The purple a greeting to spring. My daffodils are in bloom in the courtyard, another sign that warmth is arriving again.

Ah, but here in Colorado, our color remains white. Maybe in another month, we shall see some of the colors of the South of France.

Happy Spring-----almost,

Cindy

Is It Just A.....

2009-02-25T23:26:00.000+01:00

Ah, yes, another pastry. And I thought I would not see any more this winter.

I am sitting in the sunshine in the village square. All around me are the voices of the morning market. Winter vegetables are in abundance: cabbage, leeks, chard, carrots, all the colors of winter. Some apples appear, along with the squashes but most of the colors are the whites and greens that have survived the chill of the season.

People rush back and forth filling their baskets and talking with friends of the village. The market not only provides dinner but a chance to catch up on all of the news. The mime dresses as the children anticipate his silent movements.

Of course, on market day, we have to have our cafe creme along with one of those marvelous pastries. It is so difficult to make a decision. The sun warms us in the chill weather.

Ah, yes, it is only a dream. Here I sit on my patio with its view of Pikes Peak enjoying a cup of green tea and a cookie in the silence of winter! Soon, soon, pastries will again be on my plate!

Sweet Dreams,
Cindy

Spring? Not Yet!

2009-02-18T21:25:00.000+01:00

As the winds howl, we know that Spring is not trying to come to Colorado yet, however, when we left France , Spring was on its way.

Some of you will remember last year when I planted the daffodils in the Fall for Molly's April wedding in France. Yes, they bloomed wonderfully... in March. And before we left in January this year, they were peeking out of the soil ready for an early rising.

Driving through the countryside, we noticed that the fields were changing. Long rows of plastic covered the Spring crop of asparagus which by now should be seeing the world. Amy's first comment was that Spring is on the way when the striped fields appear.

Behind Matt, you can see the bones of the pruned grape vines marching down the fields ready for their spring finery. However, each morning when we arrived in the fields to prune, the green vegetation was all dressed in a lacy covering of frost, a wonderful way to enjoy the chilly French mornings.

Orion is high in the Colorado night sky, a sure sign that the seasons will be changing. I just know that Spring can't be too far away! Yes, I know, we still have two months before we will see the daffodils---if we are lucky!

It's Close to New Year's!

2009-02-03T00:59:00.016+01:00

OK, OK, I am at least two, well, now thirteen days late. First, my computer was hospitalized and than, I couldn't find any of my pictures. And instead of New Year's it is Valentine's Day. Pretend it is still January!

In France, Christmas cards are usually not sent but New Year's cards are, all during the month of January. On our morning visit to the boulangerie (bakery) two days after the first of January there was a box of the greatest cards obviously designed by children. Bright colors, shiny papers, wonderful paintings adorn these cards wishing the receiver a Happy New Year. The sign read, 4 for 1 euro. Of course, I thought we needed some to send next year to our friends. In our wonderful French, Joe asked who had made them. The school children were raising money for an activity. Needless to say, I had to purchase more of these works of art.

Later that week, we had coffee with friends and here is their Christmas, no New Year's card. Michel is a painter/photographer and Cristelle is a sculptor. Visit their website for a real treat. The name of their gallery is Open Galerie and Michele's photos can be found at Open Photo .

I guess I will leave you with a wish for a Happy Valentine's Day. At least I am early for this holiday!

Bisou,
Cindy