tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37861963705520633762024-03-19T04:45:44.976+01:00Atelier ContiUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger224125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-60660947179613594982014-08-27T14:30:00.002+02:002014-08-27T14:30:54.262+02:00New Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGBTnVH-gjuGYQDrj42Sx55G0iWriuFD7efuuiafo2Y7pcDmADEU4u24UjGBXqHqSyi13sLvRDAME5AxSdE_RHYJtdRdfCCRrVVSz_FaKPdj46bm2MSAjbiLT-HIY8mLwwxEDeIzR6zA/s1600/opener.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGBTnVH-gjuGYQDrj42Sx55G0iWriuFD7efuuiafo2Y7pcDmADEU4u24UjGBXqHqSyi13sLvRDAME5AxSdE_RHYJtdRdfCCRrVVSz_FaKPdj46bm2MSAjbiLT-HIY8mLwwxEDeIzR6zA/s1600/opener.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My blog has a new home on the Maison Conti website. I hope you will come visit me there:</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
http://www.maisonconti.com/maison-conti-blog/</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-42424862180979857272014-06-16T11:39:00.001+02:002014-06-16T14:11:27.141+02:00En vacances<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5P5UOf-FdelA_M_jsq2w7FTJcdBLsMlneGr1aHYGnbvmhTEnBBKaJ8wOmCCd1SqPkKHAjGCv6w_ZE7vpsWZWNYqIZvB9lqeKwdnFP-emKauMVrnd755MrVO7wmooQuqpAuUdmzXndig/s1600/opener1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5P5UOf-FdelA_M_jsq2w7FTJcdBLsMlneGr1aHYGnbvmhTEnBBKaJ8wOmCCd1SqPkKHAjGCv6w_ZE7vpsWZWNYqIZvB9lqeKwdnFP-emKauMVrnd755MrVO7wmooQuqpAuUdmzXndig/s1600/opener1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Summer is in full swing over here. We are extremely busy with clients and friend and family visits. Emily is moving in just two weeks from her charming but small artist's loft in Paris to a real house with garden. We are building furniture for her and helping pack boxes when we can. Our garden shed is still under construction and all the many other projects that are near and dear to my heart are put on hold until the pace of life becomes leisurely again.<br />
<br />
The weather is cooperating. Warm breezy days, azure blue skies and huge white clouds are the norm. Our clients consistently eat meals on the terrace. The village is become animated.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTYR09SUpEsV40rVzPT40XzPkeIlVGDAZwyCrApXn0mX0VaVEe-C4JH2M8kpLTG840xGtAcknac-xko8vPkyIYFrmfq4jr3rqlREa56bO8qOomS76dwzUb6t8TB9RXCoQ-oQADv75-Nw/s1600/entry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTYR09SUpEsV40rVzPT40XzPkeIlVGDAZwyCrApXn0mX0VaVEe-C4JH2M8kpLTG840xGtAcknac-xko8vPkyIYFrmfq4jr3rqlREa56bO8qOomS76dwzUb6t8TB9RXCoQ-oQADv75-Nw/s1600/entry.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
It has been more than 5 years since launching this blog. At first my posts were quite regular, at least once a week. Lately there has been a longer gap between, but I have not often left more than a couple of weeks go by without a word. It has brought me a lot of joy to write this blog and through the it I have made some very nice connections.<br />
<br />
I have mostly thought of this space as a way to journal my thoughts, and capture the history of my days. I have also offered it as a way for friends and family at home to keep current on our activities. I hope to have provided a little information to people who love France about places to go and things to see. It has been a lot of fun. Now, however, I find I need a vacation from blogging. I intend to take the summer off and rethink this platform. I expect to be back in the fall at which time I may change venue or direction.<br />
<br />
I really appreciate all the kind things people have said regarding the blog and the comments people have left over the years. If you would like me to send an email to you when the blog is back on line, please leave a comment here, and I will make a point of it. Or you can always contact me through the email address for Maison Conti. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItaGI2gnIvg4eB2SGiKH_01TgiHgaqn51C8A1-g8qoNwDmU72pSe83RM89Tc6CyhKR5crIUZ8YxVYyV1wnH1vPpIm-gc84XEb47S7nLF9zLKvNmVcA4trUcZ6axeOok87wdFPjIbIjw/s1600/flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItaGI2gnIvg4eB2SGiKH_01TgiHgaqn51C8A1-g8qoNwDmU72pSe83RM89Tc6CyhKR5crIUZ8YxVYyV1wnH1vPpIm-gc84XEb47S7nLF9zLKvNmVcA4trUcZ6axeOok87wdFPjIbIjw/s1600/flowers.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-85409318033916162212014-06-03T11:11:00.000+02:002014-06-03T11:11:23.456+02:00Cyanotype<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG77Cq6oiri4wrJyq94hQpqscY4ruM5xGiUIv-_xrIaLwvT0ULVlJ3uh4LLFzAid6SOCWZ8hrfnbtuDkdDP2JBEvF315qAOassQ-IJ1SFIgBi8ofTSxCnrN5IGMVAK5-WTDqmiMeoong/s1600/cyotree1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG77Cq6oiri4wrJyq94hQpqscY4ruM5xGiUIv-_xrIaLwvT0ULVlJ3uh4LLFzAid6SOCWZ8hrfnbtuDkdDP2JBEvF315qAOassQ-IJ1SFIgBi8ofTSxCnrN5IGMVAK5-WTDqmiMeoong/s1600/cyotree1.jpg" height="462" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cyanotype of a sunlit forest path.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
Lately I have been experimenting with a somewhat magical old photographic technique called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyanotype" target="_blank">cyanotype</a>. Basically one mixes a couple of chemical solutions together, paints the resulting photosensitive mixture on watercolor paper, allows the paper to dry thoroughly, places a negative onto the prepared paper inside a clamped glass frame and allows it to be exposed in the sun for a few minutes. The print is then developed in running water. Voila. You get an interesting all-blue image.<br />
<br />
This winter we set up a darkroom off the atelier which allows me to
explore some of these simple techniques that seem a natural extension
of printmaking to me. If you have an interest in old photographic
image-making methods, visit my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/maisonconti/antique-photographic-processes/" target="_blank">Pinterest board</a>
on the subject, to find some wonderful links. Step-by-step directions for making your own cyanotypes are found there. The community that
embraces this craft tends to be very warm, helpful and enthusiastic, so
feel free, as I did, to ask questions of the experts. In my experience
they always answer. <br />
<br />
I started by using photographs for my prints, which lose a lot of
detail of course, but can look quite interesting and moody. The
technique works perfectly well for drawings and collage also. I
haven't tried it, but apparently it even works with leaves and other
organic materials.<br />
<br />
On <a href="http://lynda.com/">Lynda.com</a> you can take a class with <a href="http://www.briantaylorphotography.com/" target="_blank">Brian Taylor</a> who uses cyanotype as a first step in a process that adds color with another chemical on top of the blue. I have bought the chemical and begun to experiment with this further refinement, but have not so far gotten anything worthy of sharing with you. Brian makes beautiful books out of his images and explains his entire process from start to finish in the on-line course. When I want to treat myself, I buy a month of Lynda.com access and I have found some really wonderful courses there. Brain's was one of my favorites.<br />
<br />
Here is a gallery of my first attempts at this interesting technique. My favorite image is the last one. It was actually made with a positive, rather than a
negative, so that everything which was meant to be black turned white
and everything else turned a shade of blue. This was a collage I put together in
Photoshop with a map imposed on top of a photograph of a local church. I
was amazed and delighted with the detail of the map lines and type,
which are completely legible in the resulting image. In that one I am showing you
how the edge of the paper looks with the solution painted on a
bit randomly. I like the way the whole thing turned out. I feel inclined to leave the image uncut and incorporate the sloppy edge as part of the final presentation.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqm00CInvLXU7j8tTSFkgOKynp84lUM_q613rbq9Rhg6CMXguIzN_e-7bm6HXsW5DRR_mgGz6ufC-LLh-NXy5yi_7WLLbnGpRRHtpRgygpk88ARWLXEo4idjDkacuO_g8ZoETESy-WuQ/s1600/cyotree2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqm00CInvLXU7j8tTSFkgOKynp84lUM_q613rbq9Rhg6CMXguIzN_e-7bm6HXsW5DRR_mgGz6ufC-LLh-NXy5yi_7WLLbnGpRRHtpRgygpk88ARWLXEo4idjDkacuO_g8ZoETESy-WuQ/s1600/cyotree2.jpg" height="640" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Made from a negative. The lake at La Ferté-Bernard</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfaMjUlRBe44VbtZSPBQpKh6FfqAkos9zjgrUsA285I4PQg7TDx_yzqz8oCxai7g14g4O8N60bZOHSf61DmLYxYFbyoke19rZtiseqvYJtpzyOHEo8NNxCn33nbqrLa6Sq_CnjWuCwOA/s1600/cyoem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfaMjUlRBe44VbtZSPBQpKh6FfqAkos9zjgrUsA285I4PQg7TDx_yzqz8oCxai7g14g4O8N60bZOHSf61DmLYxYFbyoke19rZtiseqvYJtpzyOHEo8NNxCn33nbqrLa6Sq_CnjWuCwOA/s1600/cyoem.jpg" height="640" width="596" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Emily in a Paris café. I like the detail out the window.
The mid-tones, however are almost completely lost. Still, I am happy
with the mood.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgabtyD5PwlX0L6XNUUt4yRirXc7tsl9dVVL5UDOhBZus2LCMT9h56ZfRTtK_1XXvtuylmVkdJ1YaXyhTNAG7gb6rjayUNyLK4053twKIDiggLjYeXSWT9fZQ1RPbmKYAVePMsajlvsow/s1600/cyobird1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgabtyD5PwlX0L6XNUUt4yRirXc7tsl9dVVL5UDOhBZus2LCMT9h56ZfRTtK_1XXvtuylmVkdJ1YaXyhTNAG7gb6rjayUNyLK4053twKIDiggLjYeXSWT9fZQ1RPbmKYAVePMsajlvsow/s1600/cyobird1.jpg" height="496" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Made from a positive of a pencil drawing.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpQw2KmiagxFqipRpoc9ynXw7YLL_YKzO8IC_ohwSDEXmEAHjPPSdAE7TpnJixN0Chbk91T-MEz5Et6eL9rR-MexkXqmF9upZ_eqbznySVsMtcWFwmKw0l1K3Vcm0K2w4Twq8BdGfMtw/s1600/cyobird2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpQw2KmiagxFqipRpoc9ynXw7YLL_YKzO8IC_ohwSDEXmEAHjPPSdAE7TpnJixN0Chbk91T-MEz5Et6eL9rR-MexkXqmF9upZ_eqbznySVsMtcWFwmKw0l1K3Vcm0K2w4Twq8BdGfMtw/s1600/cyobird2.jpg" height="640" width="413" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photoshop collage</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbpA3HyDU95undTntI7IaYdgAhFjiiXcTObWVaNnlensPmFkQKijobn1EjBCzXk6YUcZdpR_nac0zmS5xe0HA19YYsviT-4NK0scKPepRJb6EvmVg1H7SaMqIeyDqRU3s0aSrFMNjfg/s1600/cyomap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbpA3HyDU95undTntI7IaYdgAhFjiiXcTObWVaNnlensPmFkQKijobn1EjBCzXk6YUcZdpR_nac0zmS5xe0HA19YYsviT-4NK0scKPepRJb6EvmVg1H7SaMqIeyDqRU3s0aSrFMNjfg/s1600/cyomap.jpg" height="448" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The church at <a href="http://ateliermaisonconti.blogspot.fr/2012/04/lavardin-church-of-saint-genest.html" target="_blank">Lavardin</a> with a map superimposed over the image. Here I used a positive, so tones are reversed.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-56835557116431690502014-05-16T07:25:00.000+02:002014-05-16T07:25:01.084+02:00Life is a Rainbow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQO9WwsAEoUjNfCrIjCpmPJq95BTci15YRM3dGkAViIPEYPbdp0GnVlaqIgqeLXqL3pHwzVY5WotgVASgnbZ3zZbCKdbKD83CSWDYxVbpsVL18gVSeO7vQSxAAJc0qNSxlhLLXkcWFA/s1600/rainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQO9WwsAEoUjNfCrIjCpmPJq95BTci15YRM3dGkAViIPEYPbdp0GnVlaqIgqeLXqL3pHwzVY5WotgVASgnbZ3zZbCKdbKD83CSWDYxVbpsVL18gVSeO7vQSxAAJc0qNSxlhLLXkcWFA/s1600/rainbow.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A recent view out our window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
My blog posts seem to be becoming fewer and farther between as the spring progresses. It may have something to do with the weather. It's hard to stay indoors when outside you can almost watch the plants growing.<br />
<br />
Today I'm reporting on an adventure that took place on May 1st. Where has the time gone since then? I can not account for it. Still, it's another tour of Paris, and so hopefully of some interest to you.<br />
<br />
My brother and his wife Marilyn came to town on their way to Switzerland, where they are taking mountain hikes. They were kind enough to include Paris as a brief stop-over, just to make contact with us.<br />
<br />
Marilyn is an English professor in California who specializes in 19th century literature. She is also very clever, organized and energetic. Therefore, although they were just in town for one full day, she had planned a very interesting walking tour that included the houses of Victor Hugo, Marcel Proust, George Sands and Balzac, all of which are now museums.<br />
<br />
We met first thing in the morning at the beautiful <a href="http://www.placesinparis.com/place-des-vosges/" target="_blank">Place des Vosges</a> on May 1st. I had invited my friend Nelly to accompany us and she graciously accepted.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQTR1qB2RIOGMGNFR5kF2xqLMZADcznSFyYe39tOnmwWJbavjUcIvaUUAtnB3ldPjCn-fKja85sXWMCVdkTO_84ciEXlRSeMivDHt61zUf0h5aLHJ6Dn6LIjiqPiw22JvZF3KEI_5yA/s1600/placevendome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQTR1qB2RIOGMGNFR5kF2xqLMZADcznSFyYe39tOnmwWJbavjUcIvaUUAtnB3ldPjCn-fKja85sXWMCVdkTO_84ciEXlRSeMivDHt61zUf0h5aLHJ6Dn6LIjiqPiw22JvZF3KEI_5yA/s1600/placevendome.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the entrances to Place des Vosges</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was a beautiful morning, but unfortunately we had not calculated that May 1st is a worker's holiday in France and very few museums stay open, in fact all the ones we intended to visit were shut for the whole day.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvs5NgpWjMMZU58o2SZAJFXmosBtm8BV7U9SR2J4XImUmxSmeEbSFLDxuCz4W_FPNIDI7F9_Xmqh0QLYsqWsMn1AyPPYAgz-_AznbbhY6OQTWZ8NfNi7MtBVutP_02XHo24XOx26E3WQ/s1600/placev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvs5NgpWjMMZU58o2SZAJFXmosBtm8BV7U9SR2J4XImUmxSmeEbSFLDxuCz4W_FPNIDI7F9_Xmqh0QLYsqWsMn1AyPPYAgz-_AznbbhY6OQTWZ8NfNi7MtBVutP_02XHo24XOx26E3WQ/s1600/placev.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The garden at Place des Vosgues</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Nelly immediately took charge of the situation and with a little quick research found an alternative itinerary for us.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutdOhfRe1PE2DVyyqxtWHL7yQx_OgW3LG3-aMHv7qV6IuSFAPo_yiZTXjMA868cbP7w7sibJblSuy78984zvdRSXE35RcmtUsNLLR4AphyphenhyphenCshnohPnsKo_tGMBRcu1IFQSTat4WZQdQ/s1600/bench.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutdOhfRe1PE2DVyyqxtWHL7yQx_OgW3LG3-aMHv7qV6IuSFAPo_yiZTXjMA868cbP7w7sibJblSuy78984zvdRSXE35RcmtUsNLLR4AphyphenhyphenCshnohPnsKo_tGMBRcu1IFQSTat4WZQdQ/s1600/bench.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brother Gary, his wife Marilyn and Nelly doing research on her iPhone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="r">
<br /></div>
<div class="r">
The Museum <a href="http://www.musee-jacquemart-andre.com/en" target="_blank">Jacquemart-André</a> is a beautiful "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H%C3%B4tel_particulier" target="_blank">hôtel particulier</a>" in the 8th arrondissement of Paris near the Champs-Elysées and it just happened to be open. It also had a nice nineteenth century connection to satisfy Marilyn's area of expertise We jumped on the metro and headed that direction.</div>
<div class="r">
<br /></div>
<div class="r">
Edouard André (from a wealthy banking family) and Nélie Jacquemart (an artist in her own right). built a sumptuous home in a new section of Paris during the later part of the1800s on blvd Haussmann, completed in 1875. They became avid art collectors and after their deaths, left their beautiful house and important art collection to the state. It is now a very popular museum. I hadn't been there for years.</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh679Y7QAIXEOEa2Dw4t32HwXHBQvQtlyQeoB67hJs5pgjFEg4d9k0TZF1a-msXufHtWcmUcI7a1MYrtP53QQIvZhQZpO_oOocG9mYUwHJmcHDU4bGOrzOys4DrIiJQySiSFWlqcTYAjA/s1600/andrejroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh679Y7QAIXEOEa2Dw4t32HwXHBQvQtlyQeoB67hJs5pgjFEg4d9k0TZF1a-msXufHtWcmUcI7a1MYrtP53QQIvZhQZpO_oOocG9mYUwHJmcHDU4bGOrzOys4DrIiJQySiSFWlqcTYAjA/s1600/andrejroom.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ballroom, where the walls are able to be removed allowing several rooms to serve as a huge dancing floor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The house itself is certainly very grand and interesting, but it is definitely their collection of art which fired my imagination.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgioKPbYJCdRAeL2WL6cksSMQIE7cRfy-wPl-zkruZXyq_9jFtxP1Oh5iCuiW8jXiBS6xPDtHvJOUogHrfoGd25e5nd6ZSY2DAngoT0HoXRpyauYE3wUIYSJ6DvC1C5BKTi7nc3l0W4uA/s1600/grandrm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgioKPbYJCdRAeL2WL6cksSMQIE7cRfy-wPl-zkruZXyq_9jFtxP1Oh5iCuiW8jXiBS6xPDtHvJOUogHrfoGd25e5nd6ZSY2DAngoT0HoXRpyauYE3wUIYSJ6DvC1C5BKTi7nc3l0W4uA/s1600/grandrm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the salons<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The atrium and "winter garden" were my favorite rooms in the house, bathed in natural light. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDqTZapUtomPTIPzvfNLzDNRjg4cvoAhxu_66-uiNP8MiNXiZ-VJSm287umfSHyIwLk8wzeKQvonhrj4EbsdpKyDS4WiKM1wyn9hfW_qMsOjk8MpgoecZ0_8n_z3Md-K4zmwHhFg9PaQ/s1600/atrium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDqTZapUtomPTIPzvfNLzDNRjg4cvoAhxu_66-uiNP8MiNXiZ-VJSm287umfSHyIwLk8wzeKQvonhrj4EbsdpKyDS4WiKM1wyn9hfW_qMsOjk8MpgoecZ0_8n_z3Md-K4zmwHhFg9PaQ/s1600/atrium.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atrium</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Most of the other rooms seemed a bit dark and overwhelming to me.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWbVgBmd6qivRKVpvsoUQWwwk2QqSl47ZJZzuCFreLBx0w0HosoqeyZHdHgQEQt_gdlIfHI522b-duWiEZq_zTFeghygkDBUYPTQGu5jlgxfBut0faxceFGmvW3hEtxjukm7NB0HJrA/s1600/wintergar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWbVgBmd6qivRKVpvsoUQWwwk2QqSl47ZJZzuCFreLBx0w0HosoqeyZHdHgQEQt_gdlIfHI522b-duWiEZq_zTFeghygkDBUYPTQGu5jlgxfBut0faxceFGmvW3hEtxjukm7NB0HJrA/s1600/wintergar.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The most impressive rooms, in my opinion, were on the second floor and held the "Italian Collection." mostly works form the Renaissance. It's hard to imagine living one's daily life in a house which includes rooms like these!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL13tfjLc9bIA7koSaE4q3hKyay-T5pFg0pqOX4koAHCcibLRnWP2rQSI9gJDvJURufL550iKw-KTxOdWvqChOiU-PiHqQ1-8OUBPNyCAdrH0mBpXsNhl4rhIBCM0Z-nqHbB1NiQF1Ew/s1600/italroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL13tfjLc9bIA7koSaE4q3hKyay-T5pFg0pqOX4koAHCcibLRnWP2rQSI9gJDvJURufL550iKw-KTxOdWvqChOiU-PiHqQ1-8OUBPNyCAdrH0mBpXsNhl4rhIBCM0Z-nqHbB1NiQF1Ew/s1600/italroom.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On of the Italian gallery rooms<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The stone archways and opulent wall furnishings provide a glorious backdrop to some remarkable paintings, including <i>Saint George and the Dragon</i>, painted around 1470 by Paolo Uccello, a painting Marilyn references in some of her courses.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguFUWu9uDVNAQrR2V0ELdb9BR40aaRHdLH5u_5uYgOTNB6Y-cXSD6qIE21KubhVhzHm-TkOfVY5QqJqyYiYqQghoTFBRmMqK1jQCzrjX-KpgRJFr23E_LCTPenAZ-ahLPFlel4M4aeaA/s1600/sy+georges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguFUWu9uDVNAQrR2V0ELdb9BR40aaRHdLH5u_5uYgOTNB6Y-cXSD6qIE21KubhVhzHm-TkOfVY5QqJqyYiYqQghoTFBRmMqK1jQCzrjX-KpgRJFr23E_LCTPenAZ-ahLPFlel4M4aeaA/s1600/sy+georges.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. George and the Dragon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We also were able to see the temporary exhibit which featured paintings and drawings by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antoine_Watteau" target="_blank">Watteau</a> and his contemporaries. I love the way that trees were painted during this period. They always look so French to me and like none other before or since.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOyXDcRHHhEcdGucwypJ4bO4FGBOJZk4XvHlQWXQSGSGjt-If5edG98R92MaGB7yIBi8qfxv6yD-nu9xCfzH89MowBxCxrokwF6Tk0ZaL5ReBH1Ya6ehrlcvZLA85Wbihmvjgi1qQZ-g/s1600/watteau.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOyXDcRHHhEcdGucwypJ4bO4FGBOJZk4XvHlQWXQSGSGjt-If5edG98R92MaGB7yIBi8qfxv6yD-nu9xCfzH89MowBxCxrokwF6Tk0ZaL5ReBH1Ya6ehrlcvZLA85Wbihmvjgi1qQZ-g/s1600/watteau.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Fête à Saint-Cloud by Jean-Honoré Fragonard<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After spending several hours at the museum, Nelly suggested we have a refreshment at <a href="http://www.lesdeuxmagots.fr/en/ambiances.php#/ambiances.php" target="_blank">Les Deux Magots</a>, a café not far from her house with a very famous literary history itself, of course. I actually had never been there, so it was something of a treat for me.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_D39lcty9ocTsS-fGankJsP2trBEEwNo6coWZvqmNrN51K2Si6F7jyiN4nPtMkVFP9v9WQKgblToQ-hnYn64sGUBabjsDGi6xnD8q80mRNn2g8czhh_EnBbdqDHkgCaT2aWDcNDrNQ/s1600/2magots+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_D39lcty9ocTsS-fGankJsP2trBEEwNo6coWZvqmNrN51K2Si6F7jyiN4nPtMkVFP9v9WQKgblToQ-hnYn64sGUBabjsDGi6xnD8q80mRNn2g8czhh_EnBbdqDHkgCaT2aWDcNDrNQ/s1600/2magots+copy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The famous Deux Magots<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Did you know that Magots are Chinese figurines? I personally had no idea. These two, which give the café its name, have been in place since about 1870.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNueC8IOV7qJUZgjcvkFqqOcaAGaicvTsa6dFpSDN7ky41s-ThIXSc3iXAuTZa8WnWCa6moEZgse7wZgDjppMyO7SbZ1yVL1s83patXVjt5JnF6ti2syhhs4vmuGlr3FaYjcSRWSjexg/s1600/deuxmagot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNueC8IOV7qJUZgjcvkFqqOcaAGaicvTsa6dFpSDN7ky41s-ThIXSc3iXAuTZa8WnWCa6moEZgse7wZgDjppMyO7SbZ1yVL1s83patXVjt5JnF6ti2syhhs4vmuGlr3FaYjcSRWSjexg/s1600/deuxmagot.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Les Deux Magots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Nelly and Gary had iced coffee and Marilyn and I had Perrier-Menthe. It ended up being a wonderful day, after an uncertain start.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iQE9UlBTdU2YnzjNEBTLE_mhRnT5sEs_SPGeL1w4NJT0EvrtH8oxBbXdi-mq6A9nYWYfQmcjWZVQ9ZJ3bAhzttKvdnFoLcZwnrdn-2NqDXRlFS10OznQ1RjoNHs0raaaUqn494-oEQ/s1600/nelly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iQE9UlBTdU2YnzjNEBTLE_mhRnT5sEs_SPGeL1w4NJT0EvrtH8oxBbXdi-mq6A9nYWYfQmcjWZVQ9ZJ3bAhzttKvdnFoLcZwnrdn-2NqDXRlFS10OznQ1RjoNHs0raaaUqn494-oEQ/s1600/nelly.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nelly and Marilyn<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Gary and Marilyn came out to Emily's house for dinner. Marilyn, as always, brought the children presents. For Quinn it was a group of Star Wars figurines, which apparently are all the rage in his kindergarten! He was over the moon. For Zinnie is was a collection of purses, a little mirror, and even some lipsticks. She was immediately fascinated. And when she put the lipstick on...goodness! How could a little bit of lip color make her immediately seem like a miniature teenager?<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOquBUKnn2UaZR3aQlJ9ynS5899XKQ1WvetD3u-PkC0JdOBVw2BqZaO2BWmW8JUXtuc-G5N7hpBifsp1eo9Imyt7yPxyJfJVakYkPHx-lheXCQUfC63vwK2EX6vi1FI26iWxZtgie-sA/s1600/zinnie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOquBUKnn2UaZR3aQlJ9ynS5899XKQ1WvetD3u-PkC0JdOBVw2BqZaO2BWmW8JUXtuc-G5N7hpBifsp1eo9Imyt7yPxyJfJVakYkPHx-lheXCQUfC63vwK2EX6vi1FI26iWxZtgie-sA/s1600/zinnie.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zinnie gets glamorous<br />
<br />
<br />
***</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Meanwhile back at home, our season is well underway. When we're not attending to our clients, you are likely to find us in the garden.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTM8_1LNGTShVnlz2Rc-GaAPLJqjnU_4x5Ii1zYgGQHpxaT3M3-2JFx4Nc6GKdcuX35fhmWS1RV1BhhUho8eYx31Yi6fbdLG2RWneM7XpVny0ZNFc70t73obMbwcaBLWMaCBR5OqFdwQ/s1600/castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTM8_1LNGTShVnlz2Rc-GaAPLJqjnU_4x5Ii1zYgGQHpxaT3M3-2JFx4Nc6GKdcuX35fhmWS1RV1BhhUho8eYx31Yi6fbdLG2RWneM7XpVny0ZNFc70t73obMbwcaBLWMaCBR5OqFdwQ/s1600/castle.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the castle and church in Montmiral<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We often walk up and back twice a day.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYHTc5znEwvngcVVc6p-1Y3FgoHBQZpd60dean-uq8b5BBDjr2bWLLgGbXipb3mIHzW3CB7pbPdbe4d2qzTSPHbT_g9ga3YAOHEn9a3kY5CeP1zvuUQfbXYsRl6FKMGlEzKo4yzV4hg/s1600/gate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYHTc5znEwvngcVVc6p-1Y3FgoHBQZpd60dean-uq8b5BBDjr2bWLLgGbXipb3mIHzW3CB7pbPdbe4d2qzTSPHbT_g9ga3YAOHEn9a3kY5CeP1zvuUQfbXYsRl6FKMGlEzKo4yzV4hg/s1600/gate.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A driveway we walk past on the way to the garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We still haven't planted our tender vegetables, like tomatoes, but our beans are in the ground, and our sweet peas and nasturtiums are already coming up.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDb_LY21GuiAYERdIkVS2sUyIrpQLwMnPTYAlhHmAJk_EzBIxNOVn8x9KndlJ3LE88aaAJAY6WB8ula-U7XzjkPorxEnT5L7SR1flupxHTs7Jp4zBPXxIATPqvjReooYjNBON56Lzi_g/s1600/gardenview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDb_LY21GuiAYERdIkVS2sUyIrpQLwMnPTYAlhHmAJk_EzBIxNOVn8x9KndlJ3LE88aaAJAY6WB8ula-U7XzjkPorxEnT5L7SR1flupxHTs7Jp4zBPXxIATPqvjReooYjNBON56Lzi_g/s1600/gardenview.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our vegetable garden as it begins to be plants</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Our new flower border contains nothing but well-established perennials moved from other parts of the garden. It makes for instant gratification, although they are certainly not all in bloom as yet, they have grown together just the way a border is supposed to.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgx-ckejunEIoYkUEHdejFavR28JqKhSnVYaVC_V279eHMQatjk03T1AUXA9oLqLPOna1qMXYOR2GGbAGJKu24xlASs8tPct-4N6TFJqly6ljk67yOuRkgKpjYcOsKLuysRSe3mecJQ/s1600/border.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgx-ckejunEIoYkUEHdejFavR28JqKhSnVYaVC_V279eHMQatjk03T1AUXA9oLqLPOna1qMXYOR2GGbAGJKu24xlASs8tPct-4N6TFJqly6ljk67yOuRkgKpjYcOsKLuysRSe3mecJQ/s1600/border.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flower border contains a collection of columbines, foxglove, sage, a flowering quince, hollyhock, delphiniums and penstemons</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This is the glory time of the year for the peony plant, which must be ancient. I planted two others, more subtlety colored two years ago, and they are nowhere near the size of this giant and have yet to bloom.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmhjuN2epeExiIN8a_svpGaGdaWGODp1I13oAWKx49LdyO32j9vnJQ6vIybcW1tyCAU_z4pG1ohPWHzNZebnCAlJlFen-JrMj4FLGD5Ugst4cZ8A22VAofn7ZgYKoWm-HUTgnyrkgMA/s1600/peony.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmhjuN2epeExiIN8a_svpGaGdaWGODp1I13oAWKx49LdyO32j9vnJQ6vIybcW1tyCAU_z4pG1ohPWHzNZebnCAlJlFen-JrMj4FLGD5Ugst4cZ8A22VAofn7ZgYKoWm-HUTgnyrkgMA/s1600/peony.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The peony has been in our garden since the beginning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Even if we have given over a large part of the garden to vegetables this year, I still can't resist making way for some flowers, including sweet peas, which are always my favorite, and violets which can, after all, be added to salad.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf31EKqG6ybKNg-nk5IP7uy-Gtti7j9Uk_nmr1SQseFn8hmXbidVxerAz-1H7lQYEgKryK4H1Q9I6x_LCdu9dj98MF9B67N1bhOxbvL295rWHMiHbISie8noELjt0cyWyh53iXef5z9Q/s1600/trellis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf31EKqG6ybKNg-nk5IP7uy-Gtti7j9Uk_nmr1SQseFn8hmXbidVxerAz-1H7lQYEgKryK4H1Q9I6x_LCdu9dj98MF9B67N1bhOxbvL295rWHMiHbISie8noELjt0cyWyh53iXef5z9Q/s1600/trellis.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The salad border, with a funny trellis we weaved together from twigs to support the sweet peas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Meanwhile, we are also making some progress on our little garden
shed/greenhouse/play house. We're using all old doors and windows
recycled from our garage and neighbor's house to create a kind of gypsy look.
Rick is making it up as he goes along... we'll see how that turns out. Next comes a picnic table just in time, hopefully, for summer
barbeques on the new deck.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjxSD8f3a0FWnYSq52MGX6fg3LAf1GXxEO0HuUJREHRHQslBGBXQS8srLadyeFe2CccaHrCyWM7TGOxhg5z9VLtckptB80m90aaxo5zQWHvcJLOGxOtQFa-dmV8eKE2rTH43xj3QKtA/s1600/shack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjxSD8f3a0FWnYSq52MGX6fg3LAf1GXxEO0HuUJREHRHQslBGBXQS8srLadyeFe2CccaHrCyWM7TGOxhg5z9VLtckptB80m90aaxo5zQWHvcJLOGxOtQFa-dmV8eKE2rTH43xj3QKtA/s1600/shack.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick framing the last wall of the shed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It is wonderfully pleasant to spend our time in the sunny garden. I often bring a box of paint and do a bit of water color sketching.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGiseeE_wqmZVKuo1NsMHnEOpkWjziQzYG8CdlakEq4sZw2Liujj7CsLXUGHO4OkdiSGpirVuqF-mTEYLXUEsHutLDEP-PKm5f8HU6bEzl9EXQMvaJe15Ne0SPw-6GAFE6WVG-LTU_w/s1600/gardenchair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGiseeE_wqmZVKuo1NsMHnEOpkWjziQzYG8CdlakEq4sZw2Liujj7CsLXUGHO4OkdiSGpirVuqF-mTEYLXUEsHutLDEP-PKm5f8HU6bEzl9EXQMvaJe15Ne0SPw-6GAFE6WVG-LTU_w/s1600/gardenchair.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wicker chair beside our new flower border, a pleasant place to sun bathe</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr align="center"><td class="tr-caption"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
Summer is just around the corner. <br />
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPuc5xlehoSTk4-Z63f21aJdRCDlPaoWU_bb_QUUnl6MSKDnk7sD1nTT7m5vAFoYW564EBIVITpA7VYU39tmntwlBgmQmaJUJEOpw5xKL1ZPmPidf68-nr5_MvxxbsRioJGEY6kqMJjA/s1600/orangetrees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPuc5xlehoSTk4-Z63f21aJdRCDlPaoWU_bb_QUUnl6MSKDnk7sD1nTT7m5vAFoYW564EBIVITpA7VYU39tmntwlBgmQmaJUJEOpw5xKL1ZPmPidf68-nr5_MvxxbsRioJGEY6kqMJjA/s1600/orangetrees.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor pleasures<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-73752857721776847912014-04-28T19:35:00.000+02:002014-04-28T19:35:40.243+02:00Happy birthday to me...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoCRH1sMdbAjGov62MsrAVOhTHB4IZObNPRmfAnT5aRTgY3ETTzPb0mgOcwwOJ014l9McesqRREQVcajimP9FW9u0e6ywWSjGmFzfJhvXWXLiPpv_3mSqM7OHLEwuUgcOlveDpSXgZg/s1600/village.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoCRH1sMdbAjGov62MsrAVOhTHB4IZObNPRmfAnT5aRTgY3ETTzPb0mgOcwwOJ014l9McesqRREQVcajimP9FW9u0e6ywWSjGmFzfJhvXWXLiPpv_3mSqM7OHLEwuUgcOlveDpSXgZg/s1600/village.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We discovered the village Villaines la Gonais on my birthday and found it to be completely charming</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Since last talking to you here on the blog, I have been having a non-stop birthday celebration. It began when Emily and family came chez nous for the actual day which happened to correspond nicely with the kids spring school holidays. It was so pleasant to have everyone around for a few days, even if during most of the time Quinn was rather ill.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHTnLzGHsuIVZUeTtSAKDXVHAFD_BBuzTSELJYkU6U3GHK5DTYemGmeJ4FoFTUhIzoTzGw7e1xS7q0fphl9hBW2279tQnvFnP6audZDEtKpVuM-2nhD5yWpMz2QW11koeGkXwMQRr7Q/s1600/kidsgate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHTnLzGHsuIVZUeTtSAKDXVHAFD_BBuzTSELJYkU6U3GHK5DTYemGmeJ4FoFTUhIzoTzGw7e1xS7q0fphl9hBW2279tQnvFnP6audZDEtKpVuM-2nhD5yWpMz2QW11koeGkXwMQRr7Q/s1600/kidsgate.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinn and Zinnie survey the Place outside the gates.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We spent a certain amount of time in the garden where we are just beginning construction of a playhouse for the children.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhziYabfB4-g8_x1eIZn9s0EDI0YbLHVCLdbW-UTl36vTZy1irpy__A-wzX91n99fdGev7jtIJMd0orYniaHusZXZ21ZWJ0L5XozlbrdtV19mrVyOjHcqwjydryDufhpOVfiUGMP6EDuQ/s1600/ballplaying.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhziYabfB4-g8_x1eIZn9s0EDI0YbLHVCLdbW-UTl36vTZy1irpy__A-wzX91n99fdGev7jtIJMd0orYniaHusZXZ21ZWJ0L5XozlbrdtV19mrVyOjHcqwjydryDufhpOVfiUGMP6EDuQ/s1600/ballplaying.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">football on the garden lawn</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The weather wasn't nearly as balmy as it had been earlier in the month, but we enjoyed ourselves anyway. It's really wonderful to have a place to "get away."<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEj6wpvlhl3QXbstg2ZLp8LG2A7KWS51MwoXXW4A8daZic5jLpV6mpUldE5gWF3gkEHtyENGG852ckB2o8DVqGkunIu6NH7GZc9ZZg_bBIObrxdVJSo7ArBgVV0Y_7vl2NFEsTszsiw/s1600/emjos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjEj6wpvlhl3QXbstg2ZLp8LG2A7KWS51MwoXXW4A8daZic5jLpV6mpUldE5gWF3gkEHtyENGG852ckB2o8DVqGkunIu6NH7GZc9ZZg_bBIObrxdVJSo7ArBgVV0Y_7vl2NFEsTszsiw/s1600/emjos.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relaxing in the garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
On the actual day of my birthday, I requested that we find a riverside somewhere and enjoy the water running by....my idea of heaven. We were delighted to find a little park right next to the Huisne where we spread out a blanket and relaxed all afternoon. It was perfect.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_uLaF9ubKJbDxC05J1LwkJbY1qL2wi2-lfBqA5k4xpKDjGSPN_FjjcMOQd0K2rMjXMqwQIiXkdpWp0FEo9Wpsf5fx7LX4JJlR8GF-gIkAgd4Sn6Ffm_gP1fr2jWYvv2qbxJfWyZ52w/s1600/lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_uLaF9ubKJbDxC05J1LwkJbY1qL2wi2-lfBqA5k4xpKDjGSPN_FjjcMOQd0K2rMjXMqwQIiXkdpWp0FEo9Wpsf5fx7LX4JJlR8GF-gIkAgd4Sn6Ffm_gP1fr2jWYvv2qbxJfWyZ52w/s1600/lake.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The banks of the river Huisne, not far from home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the day after, in the early morning hours we woke up to a huge amount of commotion and uncharacteristic traffic just below our windows. I looked out to discover that our local restaurant and two adjacent houses were on fire. In the end, they burned to the ground. It was quite a dramatic and sad moment for our little village. My birthday happens to also be the day the Titanic sank and Lincoln was shot. Somehow my birthday seems prone to catastrophes and disasters. I try not to take it personally.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Emily's birthday present to me (among several others) was to take me out for a girls' day in Paris. She had an adventure all planned, so we went along to the big city last week. Rick stayed to babysit and Emily and I enjoyed ourselves with eating, shopping and discovery.<br /><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjduYFfC-JCr76ZLmnX8IaOh7L1lhxzzP4PNv0aJjG3LSN4HP0jYYHLG8aRGXAAi6UuK4f88lLM4oE6dTHK8jcUAMwXNzd7wtsLQVgBz4IugDVtJYebhAd6_GRPyKD0lTUe9aJckvPIHA/s1600/niceneigh3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjduYFfC-JCr76ZLmnX8IaOh7L1lhxzzP4PNv0aJjG3LSN4HP0jYYHLG8aRGXAAi6UuK4f88lLM4oE6dTHK8jcUAMwXNzd7wtsLQVgBz4IugDVtJYebhAd6_GRPyKD0lTUe9aJckvPIHA/s1600/niceneigh3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the junction of Ave de la République and Oberkampf</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Emily wanted to introduce me to the chic neighborhood called Oberkampf, on the border between the 3rd and 11th arrondissements, an area I have little experience with. It is a laid back part of town, with much less traffic than the center and not many tourists. But it is a definitely upscale location for Parisian residents.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1LF2sswDryZhwL6YNUblRy-1eBQsQ2OS_B9v9p4lvrDY3771Nkug60lnLUv-Z6rZkMvTdPnNXQyh24-sMPFWI-sj8FwYzy50LP1xMeLVxyak7bcwsIAX_noHnEyub3x4B-7f-Ktv_nQ/s1600/niceneigh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1LF2sswDryZhwL6YNUblRy-1eBQsQ2OS_B9v9p4lvrDY3771Nkug60lnLUv-Z6rZkMvTdPnNXQyh24-sMPFWI-sj8FwYzy50LP1xMeLVxyak7bcwsIAX_noHnEyub3x4B-7f-Ktv_nQ/s1600/niceneigh.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charming little park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This neighborhood is quite fashionable with lots of great restaurants, art galleries and shops.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2fj32CH1rXEgs9XP6U2ZJvZwnGgj5h1CU2CH3OoVhyphenhyphen2f5jR1PrsNZr80FZU5XbhlwVCmI8PZ3yavC9FqRCD7Xlqeddjcrwx_6vYAUJpQLN8KzxAPR2xEBAE-cEtuSK8L_f1svaqnIg/s1600/prettyneigh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2fj32CH1rXEgs9XP6U2ZJvZwnGgj5h1CU2CH3OoVhyphenhyphen2f5jR1PrsNZr80FZU5XbhlwVCmI8PZ3yavC9FqRCD7Xlqeddjcrwx_6vYAUJpQLN8KzxAPR2xEBAE-cEtuSK8L_f1svaqnIg/s1600/prettyneigh.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chic little shops blend with elegant apartment buildings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I love Parisian architecture and one can always find quirky and cute little buildings along side the grander traditional ones. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQXOq5rG16EP4aroucj5NiUPQqNBzDZBM1pRj8ArGTv2y8GPJKo-LW8SJUCAyzwCS-bqhC7RfIKWCWw7ABwI7F1iw1ae4CHSenkBsUGaBGEcc74wRh8l3QQWu2ZQoNPYbKVf_xCfXHQ/s1600/niceneigh2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQXOq5rG16EP4aroucj5NiUPQqNBzDZBM1pRj8ArGTv2y8GPJKo-LW8SJUCAyzwCS-bqhC7RfIKWCWw7ABwI7F1iw1ae4CHSenkBsUGaBGEcc74wRh8l3QQWu2ZQoNPYbKVf_xCfXHQ/s1600/niceneigh2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the <span itemprop="streetAddress">Passage Saint-Sébastien</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I am especially attracted to beautiful doors, which, of course, can be found in all Parisian neighborhoods.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7pp-bwsVI2jlW3A3YvTuGhtqw9uBdDgRNj6Bjj6kOXKKkbEEjM6lNH4dYXOOSBpnYh09jSRlgZjFlpgfRrozUn_VdtFvbEq8Qbm0bbkw24iWLdjs4F7O1Zp1f3gTPunwaGyLUwJFgww/s1600/doors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7pp-bwsVI2jlW3A3YvTuGhtqw9uBdDgRNj6Bjj6kOXKKkbEEjM6lNH4dYXOOSBpnYh09jSRlgZjFlpgfRrozUn_VdtFvbEq8Qbm0bbkw24iWLdjs4F7O1Zp1f3gTPunwaGyLUwJFgww/s1600/doors.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of the doors that caught my eye during our stroll through Bastille</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Our first stop was at the boutique of our friend Sophie (14 rue Ternaux Paris 11ème. m° PARMENTIER), the wife of our printmaking neighbor Georges. She has a "pop-up*" shop in the neighborhood where she sells her beautiful jackets and bags. She travels to India every few months to purchase antique fabric, out of which she designs and has made her delicious products.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*A pop-up shop is one that is open only temporarily, in this case in someone else's office space.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmOqDJwNQmVXGGrAIiwN59vEaNry-azuJ8zbwL-wHqFxpuzb1COYFiF0Anw48oTNy4ykMcK4o9qNQS0dXe3a8RismbLpma6c6lLAWmjPwHduLvWuAINrAyKCO8DQxj0xuNF4KdzA6xg/s1600/sophiewindow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmOqDJwNQmVXGGrAIiwN59vEaNry-azuJ8zbwL-wHqFxpuzb1COYFiF0Anw48oTNy4ykMcK4o9qNQS0dXe3a8RismbLpma6c6lLAWmjPwHduLvWuAINrAyKCO8DQxj0xuNF4KdzA6xg/s1600/sophiewindow.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unfortunately when we arrived at her attractive shop, it was closed for lunch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
These are one-of-a-kind garments. I really love them. The jackets are completely handmade, lovely and flattering to wear as well as reasonably priced. If you want to visit her on the internet, go <a href="http://www.lovmint.com/createurs/sento.html" target="_blank">here</a>. She also has a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/SENT%C3%94/1430118387219307" target="_blank">Face Book page</a>.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmECddEvFGqPH4pCK1Hb5GR8R3R1uatJL-21BvwKObkV0uYigRy-ARZCxYRQDvtezKIQTchpQ_kSrD3iHcLlxEq_ALexAuGZRsr_s2-i4nlmo3YOOtmrD1YhnDXQQITZUhlq5v5hV_g/s1600/sophiejackets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmECddEvFGqPH4pCK1Hb5GR8R3R1uatJL-21BvwKObkV0uYigRy-ARZCxYRQDvtezKIQTchpQ_kSrD3iHcLlxEq_ALexAuGZRsr_s2-i4nlmo3YOOtmrD1YhnDXQQITZUhlq5v5hV_g/s1600/sophiejackets.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jackets by Sophie Escojido</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Her bags are also unique items, made from recycled Indian wedding dresses.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXL1zX_tCCArE2dapQQrYlYKrign58JHth9MeatuiDCz96oUZ4YB62-NGah4345zEaFLW8S6I4PwwoiPcXVtfzpvVmdUZ2dwYoibtAYMmMuz7I4UNv34PmsNP2ihQf3I-qjXLwveHzdQ/s1600/sophiebags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXL1zX_tCCArE2dapQQrYlYKrign58JHth9MeatuiDCz96oUZ4YB62-NGah4345zEaFLW8S6I4PwwoiPcXVtfzpvVmdUZ2dwYoibtAYMmMuz7I4UNv34PmsNP2ihQf3I-qjXLwveHzdQ/s1600/sophiebags.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bags by Sophie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Emily had chosen a very hip restaurant named <a href="http://www.restaurant-aupassage.fr/" target="_blank">Au Passage</a> with fresh tapas style plates as our luncheon destination, but unfortunately it was closed that day. We didn't have to go too far afield to find another very special place, albeit casual. It is a taco bar called <a href="http://www.candelariaparis.com/" target="_blank">Candelaria</a>. If you live in the U.S. this may not sound so extraordinary, but for me it was a real treat, as authentic Mexican food is almost impossible to find in Paris. This little trendy place is very small but serves the most delicious tacos, guacamole and handmade tortilla chips in the whole city. It was lots of fun and satisfying.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiEl_d0zNh6absX_5_ma7POUzZRWexTduVjOsgz31KnLgkXP9nG09oBIwv8CwG-wbez3AXqRzO9LJrtfSqCmhd3wCV_vxigyieLg_u4Xa5T86QI9JWGM0ac0flbg6Hh-RBCBQLWfsNHQ/s1600/tacos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiEl_d0zNh6absX_5_ma7POUzZRWexTduVjOsgz31KnLgkXP9nG09oBIwv8CwG-wbez3AXqRzO9LJrtfSqCmhd3wCV_vxigyieLg_u4Xa5T86QI9JWGM0ac0flbg6Hh-RBCBQLWfsNHQ/s1600/tacos.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Candelario Taco resto</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We wandered into <a href="http://www.atelier154.com/" target="_blank">Atelier 154</a>, an upscale furniture store with gorgeous and very expensive minimalist chairs, desks, tables and so forth. Emily is seeking inspiration for the new bigger house, which they will move into in July.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7NEKoaj-1Qnxw7aP6_H1SSZ26KhjbknkdrF4Gn1FTnfRWNFAk246VOxBX9hVRdwlbiLy4odmZqRQ9fIPvPh3IVH0p-GHCPVmDpShkAa9_weVdR35YMLOz_rFA6BPMCTbbRhhTkfY_g/s1600/154Em.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7NEKoaj-1Qnxw7aP6_H1SSZ26KhjbknkdrF4Gn1FTnfRWNFAk246VOxBX9hVRdwlbiLy4odmZqRQ9fIPvPh3IVH0p-GHCPVmDpShkAa9_weVdR35YMLOz_rFA6BPMCTbbRhhTkfY_g/s1600/154Em.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atelier 154 showroom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The place was really vast with an eclectic mix of simple classic furniture and brightly colored accessories.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnVs_rJgJEoiu9TlwUsMJxkdO-9ONyOqLeFAIN8o5v8l1jWgzNAAYarv-mP7VaejNJp9CaFYusiYGQ7LP1gb601ZIwJSqAvpu87F4IFdT71OF4jVzkE3-Kb1seNZFHIM0dTjZ3bXVmmQ/s1600/154wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnVs_rJgJEoiu9TlwUsMJxkdO-9ONyOqLeFAIN8o5v8l1jWgzNAAYarv-mP7VaejNJp9CaFYusiYGQ7LP1gb601ZIwJSqAvpu87F4IFdT71OF4jVzkE3-Kb1seNZFHIM0dTjZ3bXVmmQ/s1600/154wall.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">another of Atelier 154's showrooms</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed the very interesting concept store* called <a href="http://www.merci-merci.com/en/" target="_blank">Merci</a>. It is much bigger than it looks from the street, with several floors and many shops in a kind of open floor plan. They sell the most luxurious clothing, home ware, linens and kitchen gadgets. One could definitely spend all day here and never get bored.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">* A small shopping outlet that specializes in elite and fashionable items that are often arranged thematically.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAeZO_0AvZHruaoufcFG0v1vJF3l3xAuMZv5xDsMUCqaqfBQCSfmSMuDamfVqCOCXm4_UpgiMCOUQ_2jlh8bv-zCSM0eJ3Dr7l6IbHgsSxi7a5q_Xo6viTn22sgk1XOlbexZ4VZyqWxA/s1600/merci.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAeZO_0AvZHruaoufcFG0v1vJF3l3xAuMZv5xDsMUCqaqfBQCSfmSMuDamfVqCOCXm4_UpgiMCOUQ_2jlh8bv-zCSM0eJ3Dr7l6IbHgsSxi7a5q_Xo6viTn22sgk1XOlbexZ4VZyqWxA/s1600/merci.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Merci is a very popular place for shopping</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There are two cafes here including this one which has thousands of used books on the walls to either read while you sit here, or buy when you leave. All the tables, lamps and chairs, and presumably the dishes as well are for sale.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweRoxRsvserxa8qbnY35HgK63sNEib20cqQxTZ7KPm5Yj34c7lmbMW7d9Ogjn7fM_aC77XPqSMUwvezo7BrCySBoywyAF6YcBgfxxUfHS92U1B2cBVIuRJl4iYXAVo-K48QzvtxNyxw/s1600/mercicafe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweRoxRsvserxa8qbnY35HgK63sNEib20cqQxTZ7KPm5Yj34c7lmbMW7d9Ogjn7fM_aC77XPqSMUwvezo7BrCySBoywyAF6YcBgfxxUfHS92U1B2cBVIuRJl4iYXAVo-K48QzvtxNyxw/s1600/mercicafe.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We had coffee and crumble at the cafe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The theme of the store this season is plants and animals. They were selling chickens and goats in the nursery section...of course the chickens were not any ho hum variety, but these extravagantly colorful ones.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1T8A19XNYrxKY_NtxE5xEkxBUPWYzWFA7B7EAS-7Be5PwiU6sdmcOXqV0rX1CYiADicnARQX3QVjy-KtN5uJqJcoakBIPbEaanx6wNh60keZBCXVETn41qWEJUtuPYrA0KEIBeo8nNQ/s1600/chicks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1T8A19XNYrxKY_NtxE5xEkxBUPWYzWFA7B7EAS-7Be5PwiU6sdmcOXqV0rX1CYiADicnARQX3QVjy-KtN5uJqJcoakBIPbEaanx6wNh60keZBCXVETn41qWEJUtuPYrA0KEIBeo8nNQ/s1600/chicks.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chickens for sale in Paris</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Emily wanted to take me to <a href="http://www.annakabazaar.com/en/" target="_blank">Anna Ka Bazaar</a> to pick out some fabric. She is making me a skirt for another of my numerous birthday treats. She really spoils me. The fabric here is all made in Japan and has that whimsical Japanese elan.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWC-NKmx0HJPmmtIH-MzSuLhxhoV4fgKAOAoe76rPAv6GefBFeDtNABN6SZxrWE4vyw1RbV5erTNyRgm7VARpZvB9uBTxAKXDAZRem1x9lrUMngatn61AQ5jodWnyT-_D4uc4TR81eg/s1600/fabric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWC-NKmx0HJPmmtIH-MzSuLhxhoV4fgKAOAoe76rPAv6GefBFeDtNABN6SZxrWE4vyw1RbV5erTNyRgm7VARpZvB9uBTxAKXDAZRem1x9lrUMngatn61AQ5jodWnyT-_D4uc4TR81eg/s1600/fabric.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anna Ka Bazaar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Our last shopping stop was the wonderful <a href="http://lestroisourses.com/" target="_blank">Les Trois Ourses</a> which we have both wanted to visit since learning about their workshops and handmade book showroom. Some of the most clever book artists in the world have limited edition books for sale here. There are so many clever forms, all fresh and very graphic.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHP-GQE3zZZp6XLjlYlLbshmNtf_NXxFb4g1aI6LM-Ymt6rg4tQPAlbZciCvA4VBQ29ZktbpMeKjSCezCtVfaOHMnWpaPSpJAbuKeRIpjWKhb7CQwA8oXJ_a3UjNa930YDio13Z-zdig/s1600/bookstore1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHP-GQE3zZZp6XLjlYlLbshmNtf_NXxFb4g1aI6LM-Ymt6rg4tQPAlbZciCvA4VBQ29ZktbpMeKjSCezCtVfaOHMnWpaPSpJAbuKeRIpjWKhb7CQwA8oXJ_a3UjNa930YDio13Z-zdig/s1600/bookstore1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Les Trois Ourses showroom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We spent a long time looking at various books and choosing one apiece to take home with us. Emily chose a box of transparent pages that could be arranged and stacked in different ways to create stories. I bought a book that opened up to reveal four small slip covered accordion fold pages that can be viewed two ways to see two different pictures. Both so very clever.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzz4KhZ1JLgJ79Kzjz7ihh1Nb_5bbSPgKV03YirJGsEZ8Fze1VTWKmrxyW22y4VuxdjkaMNg2drH_-37_hjedRkxDQ7Vz3o7QkSLru1WupxfobjLMgcdTMhjd5bDxrLD6DnlVdhP9Jtg/s1600/bookstore2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzz4KhZ1JLgJ79Kzjz7ihh1Nb_5bbSPgKV03YirJGsEZ8Fze1VTWKmrxyW22y4VuxdjkaMNg2drH_-37_hjedRkxDQ7Vz3o7QkSLru1WupxfobjLMgcdTMhjd5bDxrLD6DnlVdhP9Jtg/s1600/bookstore2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emily at Les Trois Ourses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Before taking the bus back home we stopped off for a few dinner supplies. We bought some excellent bread at <a href="http://www.lepainquotidien.fr/" target="_blank">Le Pain Quotidien</a>,<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUKGDEGWulwCo2k3OGGswZckpZwRYaxEfYF9qnpVee4hhNXb5hJuWWa3Zgk6RZygCCv8y8QfEtixqDpF_19AygvM6HqXCR9_U1Wq7OMfIK0cTHK-8YowtMdPUgrKGcWMnhqRVJF16Xw/s1600/pain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUKGDEGWulwCo2k3OGGswZckpZwRYaxEfYF9qnpVee4hhNXb5hJuWWa3Zgk6RZygCCv8y8QfEtixqDpF_19AygvM6HqXCR9_U1Wq7OMfIK0cTHK-8YowtMdPUgrKGcWMnhqRVJF16Xw/s1600/pain.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pain Quotidien</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
and chose a couple of excellent bottles of wine at <a href="http://www.septime-charonne.fr/" target="_blank">Septime</a>, a wine bar that is attached to a very chic restaurant. The white, a <a href="http://www.terroir-france.com/region/burgundy_macon.htm" target="_blank">Maçon from Burgundy</a>, was particularly wonderful. We also got some green olives there which were the most delicious I have ever tasted.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUL8TXgtia3gdTAKE6TL-TJ3iyuvmNzWneaXHnWMqGbqVs2X16f_b3t8uq_SqV3UFt9K2Aa_8EJdPZ7dd-ebCZb1QQ7HVWUbtelxnQQDPgmJ3aUZXxm_iUikvtNsmND4Jb0JQxHVXQMQ/s1600/winebar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUL8TXgtia3gdTAKE6TL-TJ3iyuvmNzWneaXHnWMqGbqVs2X16f_b3t8uq_SqV3UFt9K2Aa_8EJdPZ7dd-ebCZb1QQ7HVWUbtelxnQQDPgmJ3aUZXxm_iUikvtNsmND4Jb0JQxHVXQMQ/s1600/winebar.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Septime wine bar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
We spent the night at Emily's house and the next day Rick and Quinn joined us for one more shopping errand. We went up the hill to Montmartre to buy yet more fabric for several other sewing projects that both Emily and I are at work on.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-FYFJmUMl6gGAUSClw-AzdQ4GuaNFR5EEoQavPLT_ND1rnJTQaRy5Tg0AlyBD_j3nSSV7MAxrFUGZ5DPJ0hHHCKug2n9EQ0zLfichMV1Xh-N1kDwUCpJQ0QY1yEjIBBw5Hi2kYqc2A/s1600/montwalk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-FYFJmUMl6gGAUSClw-AzdQ4GuaNFR5EEoQavPLT_ND1rnJTQaRy5Tg0AlyBD_j3nSSV7MAxrFUGZ5DPJ0hHHCKug2n9EQ0zLfichMV1Xh-N1kDwUCpJQ0QY1yEjIBBw5Hi2kYqc2A/s1600/montwalk.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This neighborhood is not so quiet. There are always crowds here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Just below the wedding cake church, is a beautiful old merry-go-round.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDYmJ1MqJDuK2uYuh9twMbKfGv_qECBZGmkfNzCrQ3RWn8EBUnRMPJbrVWJQA7vcJ3Ewv8BZ_vlk7lDWMMIn6fwARk6cXWlMeLR_arRv8XpsucL_91CXzEqIZhZ_K4Mpd-M136B-9jQ/s1600/merrygoround.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDYmJ1MqJDuK2uYuh9twMbKfGv_qECBZGmkfNzCrQ3RWn8EBUnRMPJbrVWJQA7vcJ3Ewv8BZ_vlk7lDWMMIn6fwARk6cXWlMeLR_arRv8XpsucL_91CXzEqIZhZ_K4Mpd-M136B-9jQ/s1600/merrygoround.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Montmartre</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Quinn happily took a ride with Rick watching, while Emily and I went to fabric stores.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEierBxFesB_vg2e1YpaeQK-E8lE_7SsaUCT6Iirfap0kNNkp7WQv9-LjODxuxMQiyrMDrVBTk96N9HODTBApOz6nXw2IvkZId-lO6uIHfoD3YDkwHC4PsqlCdp0VTssXiGIv0S0o0EG7g/s1600/quinnmerry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEierBxFesB_vg2e1YpaeQK-E8lE_7SsaUCT6Iirfap0kNNkp7WQv9-LjODxuxMQiyrMDrVBTk96N9HODTBApOz6nXw2IvkZId-lO6uIHfoD3YDkwHC4PsqlCdp0VTssXiGIv0S0o0EG7g/s1600/quinnmerry.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinn has all of a sudden shot up </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
At home the kids enjoyed their evening rough-housing. Emily and Jos generally put music on in the evening the the children run and dance and bounce on the couch. At the end of it they (and we) are ready for bed time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSc2xX8K38t8t_3VpG4ltLwjch7DRYQgErTtnDXFmXmNIkfQ0R1CeZS_D1qhHK6hiAzj7Jm3O_fTlsNKQ5s4H8JnsKDXHXYPfTCrDrutFXJZkDqwP_aSQ1G3Ch2N7xCr7WfFwAt0WWg/s1600/roughhouse1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidSc2xX8K38t8t_3VpG4ltLwjch7DRYQgErTtnDXFmXmNIkfQ0R1CeZS_D1qhHK6hiAzj7Jm3O_fTlsNKQ5s4H8JnsKDXHXYPfTCrDrutFXJZkDqwP_aSQ1G3Ch2N7xCr7WfFwAt0WWg/s1600/roughhouse1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zinnie and Quinn in PJs doing their evening dancing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zinnie is quite the little girl these days, chatting, joking, playing and learning. Her mother makes her the most beautiful outfits which Zinnie is very proud of.</div>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fD6EGMHwK4E28S00ijQdbRfpSFz_sGJ4C0BKSNuGHT-DhZleY1wA2nsXmQ_QKF4_E6_DXPR9kPjPQGCqH8ds7FwYjE74gTVfq5u99NXZTYm-ljM4Kd2T_BwIEU_BLvklum8dtNz7yw/s1600/zin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fD6EGMHwK4E28S00ijQdbRfpSFz_sGJ4C0BKSNuGHT-DhZleY1wA2nsXmQ_QKF4_E6_DXPR9kPjPQGCqH8ds7FwYjE74gTVfq5u99NXZTYm-ljM4Kd2T_BwIEU_BLvklum8dtNz7yw/s1600/zin.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zinnie at home</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
News from the village includes the birth of the blackbirds and by now their flight from the nest. That happened fast. I think the mother sat on the eggs longer than she spent with the young chicks. They're all gone now.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2BJuxn5gTiPxqaThixO5EA2-QtHobq_2cKm9fZy4c3E3W4qP2TEid6P5UnUPFVWkuulMbPIBU2NzZ9ozCzZaBsX8YilBM2DW4aByR2XbZV5O3UGSHAITQF1S136YJ0pMXfa542t6Tdw/s1600/birdie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2BJuxn5gTiPxqaThixO5EA2-QtHobq_2cKm9fZy4c3E3W4qP2TEid6P5UnUPFVWkuulMbPIBU2NzZ9ozCzZaBsX8YilBM2DW4aByR2XbZV5O3UGSHAITQF1S136YJ0pMXfa542t6Tdw/s1600/birdie.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fledgling blackbird</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
It's lilac and iris time in the garden, making for extravagant bouquets.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWJADMWX9Q90ZZQ1O-MCkQl51EXgMFvf7ANq30Tep1sct7_9hBtFDXcvp9Qt02cE1nA11_cvx9oBQl07GCh7KDToOQjMibjf9JJD19k8NvGBA24OCORKPtwSppSJpiqXFMhXKii0ESw/s1600/flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWJADMWX9Q90ZZQ1O-MCkQl51EXgMFvf7ANq30Tep1sct7_9hBtFDXcvp9Qt02cE1nA11_cvx9oBQl07GCh7KDToOQjMibjf9JJD19k8NvGBA24OCORKPtwSppSJpiqXFMhXKii0ESw/s1600/flowers.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First garden flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-50450090064191494502014-04-12T09:53:00.000+02:002014-04-12T09:53:14.464+02:00Birds, Beasts and Beautiful Landscapes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEPqKN1LnpGcPBNoA5p2LywplDiUbywU_F9CFnJIB1uaHJkFpJ7mP9DgOYJHmsHuBB1DGvXexVK3W0NE9QszGWKXlSa5jCtaVCDYHbJvGf8lZzJ79k7GAV3TkZpdjwbd53nmKTdfwTHQ/s1600/opener2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEPqKN1LnpGcPBNoA5p2LywplDiUbywU_F9CFnJIB1uaHJkFpJ7mP9DgOYJHmsHuBB1DGvXexVK3W0NE9QszGWKXlSa5jCtaVCDYHbJvGf8lZzJ79k7GAV3TkZpdjwbd53nmKTdfwTHQ/s1600/opener2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring Idyll</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
All around us nature is stretching and wiping the sleep out of its eyes after a long winter nap. Renewal and reproduction are the predominant activities of the moment. That nest we noticed behind our clematis trellis is now inhabited by a female blackbird, called a merle here in France. She is a most patient and responsible parent. We peak out at her from upper windows using our binoculars and have taken a few photos with our telephoto lens. Day after day she rests in her beautifully constructed nest. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDIrtG0SPJ-lN4UhUBWMH47ezrcdnUgo27mFdz0SiM71MnS3hp2hRCoBWYJgn1j8MFJamhnQyIW6yXay4bk_G3UVVVA3fUP0lzt4lL2NVTzXRC63Pa13DPDKjvz3LRGzeyS3XLjRJoug/s1600/birdinnest2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDIrtG0SPJ-lN4UhUBWMH47ezrcdnUgo27mFdz0SiM71MnS3hp2hRCoBWYJgn1j8MFJamhnQyIW6yXay4bk_G3UVVVA3fUP0lzt4lL2NVTzXRC63Pa13DPDKjvz3LRGzeyS3XLjRJoug/s1600/birdinnest2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Female blackbirds are actually brown with tan speckles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Occasionally she flies away, presumably to get a snack, only to hurry back to her three blue eggs. The incubation period for her eggs is 10-19 days. She's been sitting there 12 days, so her time is drawing near.<br />
<br />
Her male counterpart comes to sing to her every morning at six-thirty. I know this as the nest is right below our bedroom window. I guess he's giving her (and me) the wake-up call.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/EPB4u-BfYFA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The singing that wakes me up each morning</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBauhE3Xw0V95vveUC-kTsId4_78CbWtJRYYmRFXlD2llTEMoIy36izxdTnsqoCqGkpfuxIvyq_QLzU-OBnEpwE-jbgurpVz5RfKSuiUfphyphenhyphenACKkRqK9cvoIg-irj0e9h_fmyhNnZkwQ/s1600/eggs2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBauhE3Xw0V95vveUC-kTsId4_78CbWtJRYYmRFXlD2llTEMoIy36izxdTnsqoCqGkpfuxIvyq_QLzU-OBnEpwE-jbgurpVz5RfKSuiUfphyphenhyphenACKkRqK9cvoIg-irj0e9h_fmyhNnZkwQ/s1600/eggs2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three beautiful large eggs rest at the bottom of the nest.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Father Blackbird swoops around the walls of the château waiting anxiously, I suppose, for news from the nest.<br />
<br />
The castle walls provide little nooks and crannies where birds nest and hide. It's a riot of activity and noisy conversation there, especially at dusk.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUyuLkaL7VFDUkmtWVrz_txQWOtstg-YYsmhdKBWBdwILawaRNlpN7OqYVNIn2mn9IcFjD3iokP0z38onRKJfdzHnQzfJJNOIf2c0x08UJErOxtaPu7VrE5nNOr10OgcCAISMrqlRdA/s1600/blackbird2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFUyuLkaL7VFDUkmtWVrz_txQWOtstg-YYsmhdKBWBdwILawaRNlpN7OqYVNIn2mn9IcFjD3iokP0z38onRKJfdzHnQzfJJNOIf2c0x08UJErOxtaPu7VrE5nNOr10OgcCAISMrqlRdA/s1600/blackbird2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male blackbird clinging to the side of the château</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Morning doves or tourterelles, as they're known here, are cousins of the pigeon and frankly not my favorite of birds. Their nests, as opposed to the merle's, are slap-dashed together and so shoddy, that sometimes they fall apart as the hen sits on them. More than once eggs have crashed down onto our terrace and created both heart ache and a very big mess. There is always one of these birds who insists upon building a nest every year in our wisteria on the front of the house, even if we remove the nests at the end of the season, they are never dissuaded. They always seem to win the argument which we are continually having with them. They are far too big for our modest wisteria vine, but they are nothing if not persistent. You have to admire them for that.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBwG4qLbnBgwvBFW_47DlcsuMnBbJgdYFR4ZhS1UzhHxYFiZgJ2koCIS2ff2XgcA_v8yzPwvWCHfYiCXpqM4Ksjz_myLhn2d3g3ahbAcsAQBAy7BIsPnl08dXPDOoOtFEWiGwlJihdA/s1600/doveonbranch2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBwG4qLbnBgwvBFW_47DlcsuMnBbJgdYFR4ZhS1UzhHxYFiZgJ2koCIS2ff2XgcA_v8yzPwvWCHfYiCXpqM4Ksjz_myLhn2d3g3ahbAcsAQBAy7BIsPnl08dXPDOoOtFEWiGwlJihdA/s1600/doveonbranch2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning dove overlooking the view of our valley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Sparrows, finches and other little birds seem to prefer nesting in very dense bushes which the castle provides in abundance. There must be many nests hidden in the dense shrubbery of the castle grounds as so many of them come and go from that location. I can hear their enthusiastic twittering just outside the back windows and watch as the bushes rustle and the purposeful little creatures flit from here to there, but it's impossible to see their nests. For little beings, they have very big voices.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97exdB1UE5ge7prTY9A2JB2ienb69z18J1zJurf4tppcusWnBqlBJEvBHoNxy9hjI43rhGruUDK6diJ7-zG5Preh9dIeRmKCvbfTu3fkTPpAVG9EIranY2PNWweWhRGz8xs6uV_ha3Q/s1600/birdonwall2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97exdB1UE5ge7prTY9A2JB2ienb69z18J1zJurf4tppcusWnBqlBJEvBHoNxy9hjI43rhGruUDK6diJ7-zG5Preh9dIeRmKCvbfTu3fkTPpAVG9EIranY2PNWweWhRGz8xs6uV_ha3Q/s1600/birdonwall2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sparrow perched on the castle wall just below our back windows</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
Recently we took a day to enjoy spring landscapes in the Perche. Our new American friends who bought a bungalow just north of us were on their way back home to New York. While they were in town, taking possession of their new residence, Rick helped them with some remodeling. We wanted to see them one last time before they left. We gave ourselves some extra time to meander among the pretty fields and villages that make up the <a href="http://www.parc-naturel-perche.fr/" target="_blank">Parc Naturel du Perche</a>.<br />
<br />
We met a number of very friendly creatures along the way.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDABD-yibK8MBMK-eDviQrjdx7y3PRywaBpXp7-3DbMX8jQIpn8qRFDtV2pSGTnkx1z2fCoTMbHz7df0ILpa_uaCIpD3ctxfkyupGhbOF4c8WeZVmrqV4ykJgKKFql4XUltI2OffAnuA/s1600/animals2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDABD-yibK8MBMK-eDviQrjdx7y3PRywaBpXp7-3DbMX8jQIpn8qRFDtV2pSGTnkx1z2fCoTMbHz7df0ILpa_uaCIpD3ctxfkyupGhbOF4c8WeZVmrqV4ykJgKKFql4XUltI2OffAnuA/s1600/animals2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These ladies came over to greet us when we stopped by the farms where they were grazing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It is lambing season and if you have never seem baby lambs cavorting through the fields, you've really missed something!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpGVGRLMTyPAxIJ3CvFG2N0sat9xcWFtSQdaw9SLv2ssCT-YBaVK_v6q5UrVoOk5C5s8HgrjvkxWRoOH9OhEbMCItcO36bfVFRuruY1sQd6gLq7AlAVUlQiWXs6SECu3LhKor4v0nNA/s1600/sheep2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpGVGRLMTyPAxIJ3CvFG2N0sat9xcWFtSQdaw9SLv2ssCT-YBaVK_v6q5UrVoOk5C5s8HgrjvkxWRoOH9OhEbMCItcO36bfVFRuruY1sQd6gLq7AlAVUlQiWXs6SECu3LhKor4v0nNA/s1600/sheep2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grazing sheep and lambs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The lambs jump straight up in the air like cartoon characters. They are among the most playful youth of the animal kingdom. You can't help but laugh out loud while watching them chase one another around.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXVjoO1macsxpvFFWdPoLaIYr7T2oj0SmvwfgM3Gx75dtcMpD3-WPOmKfRxZO0G4jq_1V_hdG8BqHkdRJcnzfarFX3GXx3HcDMyyr5MZr1khpSZc9ooicmLmNOsH2UNN8tTJ6JylELQ/s1600/lambs2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXVjoO1macsxpvFFWdPoLaIYr7T2oj0SmvwfgM3Gx75dtcMpD3-WPOmKfRxZO0G4jq_1V_hdG8BqHkdRJcnzfarFX3GXx3HcDMyyr5MZr1khpSZc9ooicmLmNOsH2UNN8tTJ6JylELQ/s1600/lambs2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby lambs with their mothers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Fruit trees this time of year are gracing the fields and road sides of the Perche. Although I am quite fond of the less common and showier pink or rose colored spring blossoms, I think the whites are still my favorite. They are in such abundance.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5H0DdzxE7isXaxYnC_hv4W6kw-V6ouBXUyqFVuguCqEhSh1OTlQtTQbmXfs18VXlzOtAW_qFLN012y0j6D7qwGMH4a0YeaBEGUCvggPtF6hlkYRPX9xnxtPRdSbNCMHmRiuYRq7YUA/s1600/whitetrees2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5H0DdzxE7isXaxYnC_hv4W6kw-V6ouBXUyqFVuguCqEhSh1OTlQtTQbmXfs18VXlzOtAW_qFLN012y0j6D7qwGMH4a0YeaBEGUCvggPtF6hlkYRPX9xnxtPRdSbNCMHmRiuYRq7YUA/s1600/whitetrees2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trees in bloom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The typical Perche landscape is rolling hills with fields bordered by trees. In the spring the colza, or safflower paints the hills in bright yellow. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxrF6ae9E6gY42ZmTffAAF7LTRjh5Jjj_DN9g6T09aUu3OgzkHM5KLwoU0eT_laltjNPbGAGJbe9MFpEeP10-dugR0BF_-EP7GfqmjAsAIkEyHdOod08xhyphenhyphenth4R6X8WZWUBDJMU-bMg/s1600/view2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUxrF6ae9E6gY42ZmTffAAF7LTRjh5Jjj_DN9g6T09aUu3OgzkHM5KLwoU0eT_laltjNPbGAGJbe9MFpEeP10-dugR0BF_-EP7GfqmjAsAIkEyHdOod08xhyphenhyphenth4R6X8WZWUBDJMU-bMg/s1600/view2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green and yellow hills<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The Perche has a number of charming villages. <a href="http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noc%C3%A9" target="_blank">Nocé</a> is right in the heart of the Parc Regional.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiky4eypweg1JpeMsIBkcSA74GknX9QvSVIUV9-9u66CnTHooYKMxwwJfx_xaJjbotvDBKWYx9pJCF-W0gSefpRg1boX1U3DQLeGTosZ7cPgvSPdLRa7raNTV0eEIe8p_NbTC1IEdC-Rg/s1600/perchevillage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiky4eypweg1JpeMsIBkcSA74GknX9QvSVIUV9-9u66CnTHooYKMxwwJfx_xaJjbotvDBKWYx9pJCF-W0gSefpRg1boX1U3DQLeGTosZ7cPgvSPdLRa7raNTV0eEIe8p_NbTC1IEdC-Rg/s1600/perchevillage2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering Nocé where we stopped for a coffee<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Perche architecture is rather grand in some villages. The stone buildings are covered with plaster, usually in various shades of yellow, orange or tan. Shutters are very often painted in a grey-green color.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTa6Zp4Qh1iblHGpAgZ0I8auRvEtkC_1oUERrFzqnQLYZ1m3LcYi4JBPdt2ONAALoSg8gGgkbDy4_L3VX0rvXVYf7NUJ1x86b-G9b8EDU0vQFZgyS0v0SLKcRKeSGnxpsI-DYCNkryw/s1600/town2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTa6Zp4Qh1iblHGpAgZ0I8auRvEtkC_1oUERrFzqnQLYZ1m3LcYi4JBPdt2ONAALoSg8gGgkbDy4_L3VX0rvXVYf7NUJ1x86b-G9b8EDU0vQFZgyS0v0SLKcRKeSGnxpsI-DYCNkryw/s1600/town2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At an intersection in St. Cyr la Rosière</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The main "industry" in the Perche is farming, and there are some very grand old manoirs and ancient farm buildings.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErJcvhNOqBvceS4wYAs7Et8odXGthBlFKt7r3SPAAYv7cDoLJtLt0EET4qSQkvOHJBlgkFGWhzWxHwom6fLm0FWS-DU53k2WfH2HxZuWJFMIpRH9yPUtGrGJ86X4gHNn2t76egeqs3A/s1600/farm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErJcvhNOqBvceS4wYAs7Et8odXGthBlFKt7r3SPAAYv7cDoLJtLt0EET4qSQkvOHJBlgkFGWhzWxHwom6fLm0FWS-DU53k2WfH2HxZuWJFMIpRH9yPUtGrGJ86X4gHNn2t76egeqs3A/s1600/farm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A grand old farm in the Perche</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I love these ancient stone estates. This area, which was once much more lively, is being resettled by organic gardeners and Paris-born idealists who are bringing back many of the old ways of producing food and making a very successful go of it. The Perche is having a kind of rebirth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8AuiwHqneyLd8FLVaKWgSWQuJoUUVp8lUL_tg4oMUkifQi93eT3Pzepk0WNkwcT9ch381y33gCSS7QSdeL9ij_IkgCioY4WRDq2ZJXiJwS3KA0kAD7yfLk6GFhB5qt7yZOLi1-mpQA/s1600/perchefarm2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8AuiwHqneyLd8FLVaKWgSWQuJoUUVp8lUL_tg4oMUkifQi93eT3Pzepk0WNkwcT9ch381y33gCSS7QSdeL9ij_IkgCioY4WRDq2ZJXiJwS3KA0kAD7yfLk6GFhB5qt7yZOLi1-mpQA/s1600/perchefarm2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another beautiful estate which was once a collection of farm buildings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The Perche is a <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/25/travel/tmagazine/03well.perche.t.html?_r=0" target="_blank">well-kept secret</a> that attracts initiated Parisians because of its proximity to the capital. It is very countrified, but in a most refined and elegant way!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJIY-mNFEstZ-goIJHwKUUjK_91V5GFdRYMYoCp-Syf4Lhr_jYupwCqZQ9IvFVsRqvIug1cDvvpH24k-P9zrGPT1d3j5E3IoqWFFmVppQ-0Fzo_i4fkDuoZhShi4NGdGVLIuvdfVjsw/s1600/perchehouse2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJIY-mNFEstZ-goIJHwKUUjK_91V5GFdRYMYoCp-Syf4Lhr_jYupwCqZQ9IvFVsRqvIug1cDvvpH24k-P9zrGPT1d3j5E3IoqWFFmVppQ-0Fzo_i4fkDuoZhShi4NGdGVLIuvdfVjsw/s1600/perchehouse2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful manoir in the middle of nowhere</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Our friends <a href="http://quiddity2.blogspot.fr/" target="_blank">Dawne</a> and Dean found their cottage in one of the loveliest villages in the Perche, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maison-Maugis" target="_blank">Maison Maugis</a>. I've always loved stopping here to look at the château, which is right on the road through town. A wonderful botanical artist lives here and offers <a href="http://www.peinturebotanique.com/1en.aspx" target="_blank">drawing course</a>s. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5k-ryZe6PdWopTDjdSzC7HMC-YMwnTaKfjtw-2Aey6dn70Q7Ni5OAJAFOlFEDn2nbDEOgwrmCc_U5WAnFqMIWhTgM4LrxN6hZacpHvfdcOFH9abvo4rebSjRDCW79dGj9kVfMhSH8Q/s1600/maisonmuji2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5k-ryZe6PdWopTDjdSzC7HMC-YMwnTaKfjtw-2Aey6dn70Q7Ni5OAJAFOlFEDn2nbDEOgwrmCc_U5WAnFqMIWhTgM4LrxN6hZacpHvfdcOFH9abvo4rebSjRDCW79dGj9kVfMhSH8Q/s1600/maisonmuji2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maison Maugis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The place is definitely atmospheric and the little houses that surround the castle are all typically Percheron and very charming indeed.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYK25bFwvyse51B7mmpw0JMaNt2XHIRfpphK2-m60i5I4BZt1HuZKTvfNU5B_IhXduOMIw3lIJcVwJPPYV5WSBDoMcpGYDWlblD8nHhptoy421h2D0iQ5-ml3jWQUTsgTwHhUD4Dq1uw/s1600/mujiroad2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYK25bFwvyse51B7mmpw0JMaNt2XHIRfpphK2-m60i5I4BZt1HuZKTvfNU5B_IhXduOMIw3lIJcVwJPPYV5WSBDoMcpGYDWlblD8nHhptoy421h2D0iQ5-ml3jWQUTsgTwHhUD4Dq1uw/s1600/mujiroad2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maison Maugis cottage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Dawne is an amazingly energetic and creative woman with a lot of taste and ability for decorating. Dean is a talented craftsman. Together they make a very effective team. I do not have a before photo of their new house, but they certainly transformed it in the few weeks they were here from something rather ordinary to a cozy and very attractive space. I really am looking forward to their next visit to see what evolves. Meanwhile they were filmed by <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/house-hunters-international/show/index.html" target="_blank">House Hunter's International</a> TV and will be featured in an upcoming episode. As if that weren't enough, Dawne's photos were <a href="http://www.amisduperche.fr/boutique-2/pays-du-perche-20-port-compris-2-euros-dawne-polis-usine-abadie-la-nogentaise-biere-arbogast/" target="_blank">published</a> in the latest issue of Pays du Perche Magazine, including the cover and a two-page spread. This our local high quality publication. Pretty impressive considering she's only owned a home here for a bit over a month! Both Dawne and Dean are <a href="http://crickettpolisfoto.4ormat.com/#1" target="_blank">professional photographers</a>. You can understand my enthusiasm at having these new clever neighbors!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdEqDZKngvncGSUkhBgUeVqW__zNnm3UyvvFcIPcsaBCfKBYbXnRYf-_XDiqoJ2oAkuPhi1GhyphenhyphenP4XbNiekGoDGm7qQBsJqe8wddG2M8ON2aYEofbWqG0gpMNxlVwd4ioN6Djdt4Adxw/s1600/dawnedean2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdEqDZKngvncGSUkhBgUeVqW__zNnm3UyvvFcIPcsaBCfKBYbXnRYf-_XDiqoJ2oAkuPhi1GhyphenhyphenP4XbNiekGoDGm7qQBsJqe8wddG2M8ON2aYEofbWqG0gpMNxlVwd4ioN6Djdt4Adxw/s1600/dawnedean2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dean and Dawne<br />
<br />
<br />
***</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Back on the home front, we continue to work on our garden project which is starting to take shape. Last time I posted a photo of pregnant cherry tree buds. Here is a shot from the same location a few weeks on.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEuPp6Q2OyMSqBqG9J74xsnlIRKC-ZEhX1yKPAa1R6wetwQfFRKzyPdS6uJ0RwJ6NF4s15fspqkLBqhqexsckeYBmILF3nl8GxJ36b-h9zbw8YNy2uDL16HhUAeddlBhE2TvxEOE8nA/s1600/blooms2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBEuPp6Q2OyMSqBqG9J74xsnlIRKC-ZEhX1yKPAa1R6wetwQfFRKzyPdS6uJ0RwJ6NF4s15fspqkLBqhqexsckeYBmILF3nl8GxJ36b-h9zbw8YNy2uDL16HhUAeddlBhE2TvxEOE8nA/s1600/blooms2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cherry blossoms<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Our little corner garden has developed a lot in a couple of weeks. It was a matter of instant gratification as everything was transplanted from somewhere else in the garden, including the grass. Still, we have a couple of months before things reach their potential. Meanwhile we are creating a much bigger vegetable garden this year and building a garden shack/playhouse. I will keep you posted on our progress.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEraBGS7fSpG0sVasNzbRyIVR_kV_80tI-qhvquuSxc-i-R95FJwD7j5I3j-myTjv45i5YbbYSALkMIi6V19FDF7DOkfcnkKZYbKX433AVbWZSDOMuQXPufgbhGsta2HE-zGU5OXpX0Q/s1600/newgar2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEraBGS7fSpG0sVasNzbRyIVR_kV_80tI-qhvquuSxc-i-R95FJwD7j5I3j-myTjv45i5YbbYSALkMIi6V19FDF7DOkfcnkKZYbKX433AVbWZSDOMuQXPufgbhGsta2HE-zGU5OXpX0Q/s1600/newgar2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick enjoys his labors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-45483313021579701562014-03-28T18:42:00.000+01:002014-03-28T18:42:26.273+01:00The View from here...and there<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmUI9wDx8-8l-bvxVwX3AvlFeasRSaHKpdZy7QBLxl8hIuqk1B_RWqMMFZp0S3QfZjN_Cirdw2dzCMGAHjDhbxN5jDnQvUwQ5t5m2Zr58fkQpetKhhr3M93CuIGmYVBcEZ8WIoq-NsA/s1600/windowviewsmoke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmUI9wDx8-8l-bvxVwX3AvlFeasRSaHKpdZy7QBLxl8hIuqk1B_RWqMMFZp0S3QfZjN_Cirdw2dzCMGAHjDhbxN5jDnQvUwQ5t5m2Zr58fkQpetKhhr3M93CuIGmYVBcEZ8WIoq-NsA/s1600/windowviewsmoke.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the landscape beyond Montmirail, with prunings being burned before spring planting <br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
Our beautiful late winter climate has given way to a chillier and stormier early spring weather pattern. As usual for this time of year, I spend a lot of time gazing out my windows and snapping pictures of the ever-changing moods of the big sky before me. Previously I had never lived in a house where I could have a view of surrounding countryside. It is truly mesmerizing at all times of the day and night. I never seem to tire of surveying this quiet little corner of the world around me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-mO6NOxgVPgTOdcrVdwAu9mg2ooZQAUjcTM3CFAOlEmj3uGelVQXS3NRq5LhB0voa5AHrzhy0TGEz9MKjtoeURR0D1G7nKB00x-ONQ3pCvfYGMeSDhFSRa0zCcedaeRIdw3hbv1V-A/s1600/stormclours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-mO6NOxgVPgTOdcrVdwAu9mg2ooZQAUjcTM3CFAOlEmj3uGelVQXS3NRq5LhB0voa5AHrzhy0TGEz9MKjtoeURR0D1G7nKB00x-ONQ3pCvfYGMeSDhFSRa0zCcedaeRIdw3hbv1V-A/s1600/stormclours.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dramatic storm clouds over the village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Coming as I do from California, where the weather can be easily predicted and events planned without much fear of miscalculation, days here seem full of surprises. In the space of a few minutes, you can have rain, sun, cold, warmth. Clouds simply race across the sky.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr93BKKl51Dh0N2vk7up87S8Rishq_9Bb_jrneyGyd7KmsWFQvyo7yktWZSdEqF5xOM2Imc0XO5RnhlM_T1S9WD_COPkApkgoC_65CAdu8LtLPpJaK-d9n9Q3jvj6m0XDS115ICoR_g/s1600/birds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr93BKKl51Dh0N2vk7up87S8Rishq_9Bb_jrneyGyd7KmsWFQvyo7yktWZSdEqF5xOM2Imc0XO5RnhlM_T1S9WD_COPkApkgoC_65CAdu8LtLPpJaK-d9n9Q3jvj6m0XDS115ICoR_g/s1600/birds.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of our most typical bird species overlooking our terrace where they make their homes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The early birds are back in town, sparrows, black birds and morning doves are busy building nests. We found a new little home tucked behind our trellis where two varieties of clematis grow. The little ones can be raised up amidst a profusion of flowers that these plants offer in late spring and early summer. Seems a splendid way to begin life. The morning doves always like to build their nests in our wisteria branches, although we vigorously discourage them. The wisteria has not leafed out so is not yet a target for their construction ambitions. In the meantime, we have found them at our back sill with sticks in their beaks, trying to negotiate our dormer window eaves. This is not a good idea, as this window remains open all day and night in summer months, and I can see a serious conflict of interest developing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3btN9pA2ttUzD4RExqSfMOGjyGC6bNwZny8mSa_B1FYq1t-ta1hEVEHl1asxGdqweX1hyphenhyphenf5C4U3ttD4yTfrJt-RdOlvqnOvn6iDbGnVrMvdhCeiZIK0B4uXzHJiuepz3dq0m7-nir7Q/s1600/crowsinsky+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3btN9pA2ttUzD4RExqSfMOGjyGC6bNwZny8mSa_B1FYq1t-ta1hEVEHl1asxGdqweX1hyphenhyphenf5C4U3ttD4yTfrJt-RdOlvqnOvn6iDbGnVrMvdhCeiZIK0B4uXzHJiuepz3dq0m7-nir7Q/s1600/crowsinsky+copy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crows in large groups swoop through the sky each evening before settling down for the night</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The noble crow is a year long resident of Montmirail. Some consider them pests, and they certainly don't have the most beautiful song, but I'm not ashamed to admit that I admire this big old graceless bird. Crows are a highly intelligent, social and fun-loving species. I find their constant presence, roosting high above the valley on roofs, chimney tops, spires and turrets both reassuring and entertaining. This time of year they begin to leave their normally massive group and form smaller family units, but as soon as the young ones are old enough to fly, they rejoin the larger community. They seem to enjoy communal life immensely; one hears few squabbles between individuals. They are such social creatures.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6ep7iBVa5TyXIEzyHDSf_60mwgEXkHh7x9bDw5Hz5xvB8Os_sS9QkTG91YRL9LCxFbbMnsUWktIACxfirkQYbxjGO3DBdmPgGdGst3KWtNDBqdPz7kjw9WWhuFvnb87ggRK6980L6A/s1600/nightsky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6ep7iBVa5TyXIEzyHDSf_60mwgEXkHh7x9bDw5Hz5xvB8Os_sS9QkTG91YRL9LCxFbbMnsUWktIACxfirkQYbxjGO3DBdmPgGdGst3KWtNDBqdPz7kjw9WWhuFvnb87ggRK6980L6A/s1600/nightsky.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full moon shines over our valley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This weekend our clocks are set forward an hour and those long summer days begin to be anticipated, but in the meantime the moon and stars come out long before we retire. A recent full moon made a dramatically beautiful appearance from behind dark clouds. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBr7kYPciTlLLuRNmX1g642I9YuoZEMp0nYqMpakKN99MEemAv0PVtWMCFpxX1f54ephwo8yYutYfIpuBSZFLmkBXA3JWVO-Fa6ORgUOVWQDvQPjHES-RZ-SBS45EsRo48IMABRAThng/s1600/beer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBr7kYPciTlLLuRNmX1g642I9YuoZEMp0nYqMpakKN99MEemAv0PVtWMCFpxX1f54ephwo8yYutYfIpuBSZFLmkBXA3JWVO-Fa6ORgUOVWQDvQPjHES-RZ-SBS45EsRo48IMABRAThng/s1600/beer.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick enjoying a moment before dinner<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Rick has been working hard, helping some friends remodel their house in Le Perche. He takes a well-deserved break before dinner preparation begins to enjoy a beer and read the headlines while sitting in the window seat.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CYJswxh7jMj4sPh3tWYcptiKjZ3JD05XVkFnZ4Q_pukYQgLGY12NLb9jfJSFajIf8vXfkqoyiQdJQpvIf7bYN3rWJPgmc_K8QQttJ6tpAaDEuFN8cVuy9NIos8T7_vs6nNkXSMkOBw/s1600/emily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CYJswxh7jMj4sPh3tWYcptiKjZ3JD05XVkFnZ4Q_pukYQgLGY12NLb9jfJSFajIf8vXfkqoyiQdJQpvIf7bYN3rWJPgmc_K8QQttJ6tpAaDEuFN8cVuy9NIos8T7_vs6nNkXSMkOBw/s1600/emily.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emily across the table at a Parisian cafe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Recently we went to visit the family in Paris on a Wednesday, which is still a day off for Quinn. Traditionally all young children have the day off in France. The rules change about this next year, when Wednesday morning becomes a school day for elementary students all over the country. This is a slightly controversial new law, as Quinn, who is only five and still in kindergarten, like most young children, is in school four days a week from 9AM until 4:30PM, a relatively long day of learning for a kid. Four days of that a week has seemed enough to many people.<br />
<br />
On the Wednesday in question, Quinn had a morning workshop at <a href="http://www.kapla.com/kapla/centre_kapla_paris.php" target="_blank">Le Centre Kapla</a>. After dropping him off, Emily, Rick and I took a little walk through the neighborhood and then had coffee in an atmospheric retro cafe down the street from Le Centre.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3AZZ3WVYolmxBLREpt4INUetTniwelz4NLk2K5K52Qzmrk2bDYi_05kHbJ34m2VmWaZc52cjmPfojICiIzTc9mQ3_4OgjaLmgkHERQEzfKAelxMhHtpblU9OZamziMKVugxZBSsSRw/s1600/kaplas1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3AZZ3WVYolmxBLREpt4INUetTniwelz4NLk2K5K52Qzmrk2bDYi_05kHbJ34m2VmWaZc52cjmPfojICiIzTc9mQ3_4OgjaLmgkHERQEzfKAelxMhHtpblU9OZamziMKVugxZBSsSRw/s1600/kaplas1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Structure built by the older children in the workshop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kapla#Origins" target="_blank">Kaplas</a> are beautiful and simple pine blocks, all of the same size and shape, an elongated rectangle. They come in a few colors as well as the classic unpainted variety. They were created by a Dutch designer living in France in the late 80s. They stack beautifully and with nothing but gravity to hold them together, allow for some remarkable constructions. At Le Centre kids of all ages learn a little engineering and physics and work at making some marvelous structures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0vsKDUgdSykdLxsDdDbNYF9NOgq1RRG09dDvUuyCbXia9DtoUlMBykM6BR9RGQlxvtXs_b0e5zmJCgP6RWYE8fQaUt42Yus6wMMjUXFSuWR77q-Zs-_HuIveZ1FL8PxBmXvwAq0Upw/s1600/kaplas3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0vsKDUgdSykdLxsDdDbNYF9NOgq1RRG09dDvUuyCbXia9DtoUlMBykM6BR9RGQlxvtXs_b0e5zmJCgP6RWYE8fQaUt42Yus6wMMjUXFSuWR77q-Zs-_HuIveZ1FL8PxBmXvwAq0Upw/s1600/kaplas3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the creations made by the younger kids</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Quinn is an enthusiastic builder, spending hours with his blocks, brio trains and legos, so the Kapla class was right up his alley.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPYs6PI-AeI_tLsvcyA3aG8InN7EDcZIYZF39p6mVcSaUSY6UFe6Js_DUKvUEzCTEYMsx48O-TwD7lauO-k-BdJzDdH9IHzy5QYu9HOiHu4u38qPlD1i3iEDjpunYT7n5Jma19XBkmg/s1600/kaplas4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPYs6PI-AeI_tLsvcyA3aG8InN7EDcZIYZF39p6mVcSaUSY6UFe6Js_DUKvUEzCTEYMsx48O-TwD7lauO-k-BdJzDdH9IHzy5QYu9HOiHu4u38qPlD1i3iEDjpunYT7n5Jma19XBkmg/s1600/kaplas4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinn proudly shows off the boat he helped to make</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We had a very pleasant morning as did Quinn, followed by a lovely lunch at a Lebanese restaurant not far from Quinn's workshop. I have to admit that one of my favorite activities in Paris is going out to lunch or dinner. There are so many choices. Here at the maison we scarcely ever venture out for a meal.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0Xy_Y982K2MdBxUii2LSpxbYuMYZZIG4qhv0on9L-VsrUCaq4KxKHrXOJlskrhnFWTf_p9Zzw1ydxyH_yIbNIouwv1hyJI2QNPP5KDPQHPUs1HGdSwCp1f0F8L0E5DW3se3GLZeKBA/s1600/kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0Xy_Y982K2MdBxUii2LSpxbYuMYZZIG4qhv0on9L-VsrUCaq4KxKHrXOJlskrhnFWTf_p9Zzw1ydxyH_yIbNIouwv1hyJI2QNPP5KDPQHPUs1HGdSwCp1f0F8L0E5DW3se3GLZeKBA/s1600/kids.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinn and Zinnie share well together. Both love books.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zinnie did
not join us on this particular adventure, as Wednesday is not a holiday
for her from her pre-school course. She is growing up fast and is at
that stage where if you know her well enough you can understand what
she is saying. If not, probably her phraseology will remain a mystery.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOR_DcafUrhh2vKwMkjpER1EB2Mnpk4BIQRK2mCzwK0lN16i2HR2TKUs44757z1JOUY4zMTw7-weml-wpzoBL8wQXvyWGX0WyjWnNHamVsqvsOZXLiAZf5t0tDioXBt5DFCP_x2B3F3A/s1600/plate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOR_DcafUrhh2vKwMkjpER1EB2Mnpk4BIQRK2mCzwK0lN16i2HR2TKUs44757z1JOUY4zMTw7-weml-wpzoBL8wQXvyWGX0WyjWnNHamVsqvsOZXLiAZf5t0tDioXBt5DFCP_x2B3F3A/s1600/plate.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished portrait of Emily Dickinson in my authors series</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In the studio I have been working on several things, including a couple
of new prints, a big quilt for Emily and Jos and some old photographic
techniques, including photo-etching and cyanotype. I have just received a chemical which when mixed with watercolor will allow me to add color to cyanotypes. I have yet to give it a try.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JfNt4vajBkrWLvyFW3WEc8sKD2xPfWrdoH7I8L5R4sP5LqZaeyZJcu3yMs9iHx_iIjmPQmtPggm5u0KKnww1qnffF3vyADW9Yj9A6nA_4zJcEIPUHJkdtQYOipFz6MGq01a3hgg08A/s1600/frankbernie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JfNt4vajBkrWLvyFW3WEc8sKD2xPfWrdoH7I8L5R4sP5LqZaeyZJcu3yMs9iHx_iIjmPQmtPggm5u0KKnww1qnffF3vyADW9Yj9A6nA_4zJcEIPUHJkdtQYOipFz6MGq01a3hgg08A/s1600/frankbernie.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bernard and Françoise at the breakfast table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Our good friends Bernard and Françoise came to visit us last
weekend. Our relationship with them goes way back to 1998, when they
hosted my son James for an <a href="http://www.afsusa.org/" target="_blank">AFS</a> cultural exchange year in France, when he was 16. They have since become some of our dearest friends, helping us out in so many ways since we moved to France. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4ZAZEX-lexTP5WcKvP-a8-jklFjs_swpyNs-lgIGL4GD_8KiLE5EmidktNP2rySBtRn19l2etZHHT2K9NjT8Kw0jx3tMqHCiQvCIJ0diEpFYcywMNHGU8vrkZpnHnQGduOiopOS6hQ/s1600/franrick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht4ZAZEX-lexTP5WcKvP-a8-jklFjs_swpyNs-lgIGL4GD_8KiLE5EmidktNP2rySBtRn19l2etZHHT2K9NjT8Kw0jx3tMqHCiQvCIJ0diEpFYcywMNHGU8vrkZpnHnQGduOiopOS6hQ/s1600/franrick.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick and Françoise in conversation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
We have had many happy encounters with these lovely people. Lately our
lives have made it harder to meet nearly as often as we would like, so
to have the opportunity to be together for a couple of days was a treat.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZqrIQDU-dUvTAu7eB30yTPMFhZ6pEAGi74PmIwbZs44h4X_-Vk5LbWnNBURxexuep8FGs9VFZBCMr6jc-DVRCu6VPom2NygEuvYlolvBdsh2i3jbCaJ-zVKaOHPN92DRkRn-z3yghQ/s1600/buds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZqrIQDU-dUvTAu7eB30yTPMFhZ6pEAGi74PmIwbZs44h4X_-Vk5LbWnNBURxexuep8FGs9VFZBCMr6jc-DVRCu6VPom2NygEuvYlolvBdsh2i3jbCaJ-zVKaOHPN92DRkRn-z3yghQ/s1600/buds.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cherry tree pregnant and waiting to burst into bloom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Without doubt, my very favorite springtime activity is gardening. Truth be told, it's the only time of year I have much interest in it at all. Summer days are too hot and the plants are tired and over extended, putting the garden to bed in fall is tedious. And of course we don't even bother to come up to the garden during the winter months, except to gather kindling from our shed. But spring weather calls like a siren to me and I become completely obsessed, to the point where currently I am so tired and achy from all the bending and shoveling, that I really would be grateful if it rained this afternoon to save me from myself by preventing me from over-doing it again.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSBzWHVxMnkfBNLxw8jS9-UVnHSQ0nxRFHhYVmZbEv3bwvgDH8KhpuXoJ8w-_y67oeexb0J8LZzc2L1BmUTEZ-sHj1R4gF6BEW82UOwQk_6AgBBs8Xm3aopNN_PikCtJa8v0MuQTGkQ/s1600/book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSBzWHVxMnkfBNLxw8jS9-UVnHSQ0nxRFHhYVmZbEv3bwvgDH8KhpuXoJ8w-_y67oeexb0J8LZzc2L1BmUTEZ-sHj1R4gF6BEW82UOwQk_6AgBBs8Xm3aopNN_PikCtJa8v0MuQTGkQ/s1600/book.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The grass is full of violets this time of year</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
At the end of the summer last year we built a deck in the garden. We haven't had a season yet for enjoying it. This spring we are putting in a back flower garden, to harmonize with our new entertaining space. We're starting from scratch and are also completely redesigning our existing yard, meaning that almost everything is being transplanted to somewhere else. Hopefully there will be many more photos to share next time, although, of course, the garden isn't in its glory until June.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdF2sTaF6C7WSX2KzPbWo-94b1AF8-NX7BQLccav_TzXoHAKA2vhaV6T6vUMH6fDzktUkXAHDkycq1tWizT-K2FWz7mFCGDizJxIZHyOsJvcPV_viwx2TWUGLm-JBHHM35mgDL__Lvaw/s1600/gardenbuilding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdF2sTaF6C7WSX2KzPbWo-94b1AF8-NX7BQLccav_TzXoHAKA2vhaV6T6vUMH6fDzktUkXAHDkycq1tWizT-K2FWz7mFCGDizJxIZHyOsJvcPV_viwx2TWUGLm-JBHHM35mgDL__Lvaw/s1600/gardenbuilding.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick begins our new garden project</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-62663870971892316852014-03-07T09:53:00.000+01:002014-03-07T09:53:20.759+01:00On Days Like These<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNVv6MW_YHUD2_APKPUoa3YHcKw1tndUHtn4tgItCE9xS7X1qR0tkg9S98cP6Isdp60Pcmxs77f0PS1VibdWnxCCtn9uJzv6gpqzthyDBDPDajQ7QgNa_Ip8bA2i_g1Qv7ZxzaWjWyww/s1600/opener.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNVv6MW_YHUD2_APKPUoa3YHcKw1tndUHtn4tgItCE9xS7X1qR0tkg9S98cP6Isdp60Pcmxs77f0PS1VibdWnxCCtn9uJzv6gpqzthyDBDPDajQ7QgNa_Ip8bA2i_g1Qv7ZxzaWjWyww/s1600/opener.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some trees are already in bloom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
While waiting for winter to arrive, spring sneaked in through the back door. This is the first year since moving to France that there has been no snow at all and barely even a frost. The past week has been so mild that we almost have to believe winter really won't arrive this year. The forecast proclaims another ten days of sunny, warm weather. Certainly the world around us has moved on, and is preparing itself for the next season. If a big blast of cold does arrive, it will be more devastating now, as the natural world is going along on the assumption that it's time for spring activities.<br />
<br />
On days like these...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOS0h0tZ9UH9ntjMccpQ1-W8-2yq6tZ1nHhRhxLbdNfIp39IRl9tR667JppZb2R2CiLbvRYXvKZroMxZizrUEaSbrIV4MI3ewHUGmQrKvjIKSRrpFThyphenhyphenaOomRF6XmTAaz8Dd6zCeX0Q/s1600/morning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOS0h0tZ9UH9ntjMccpQ1-W8-2yq6tZ1nHhRhxLbdNfIp39IRl9tR667JppZb2R2CiLbvRYXvKZroMxZizrUEaSbrIV4MI3ewHUGmQrKvjIKSRrpFThyphenhyphenaOomRF6XmTAaz8Dd6zCeX0Q/s1600/morning.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our front windows at about 7AM<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
the sun rises over the green valley and bathes the sky in bright color. The road leading through the forest and then on towards Paris runs like a shinny ribbon toward the horizon.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7BDJpaJ6Hrh8XerMKMuuBaoJaPVezcrq86dFwPmnHRb2LL2WM4fGozvQNw4rzfBFruf_7lgLQxvk9Hf-70DhQ3lGwW6wa-gBnrC23gDBiiSGaDCOwnInmies8OjTrHclmcmGZxNODhw/s1600/opendoor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7BDJpaJ6Hrh8XerMKMuuBaoJaPVezcrq86dFwPmnHRb2LL2WM4fGozvQNw4rzfBFruf_7lgLQxvk9Hf-70DhQ3lGwW6wa-gBnrC23gDBiiSGaDCOwnInmies8OjTrHclmcmGZxNODhw/s1600/opendoor.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front door to the terrace and interior door leading to the atelier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Sun streams through open doors creating a play of light on the wall. The front doors stay open all morning. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Nd9Ck68Ug2qxqJNUYsGIgAslu0TdCX9Wo0ADkc9LN7AiK98JU9b1zypJr8vr8NT4t8Vn4qEYUjUlUXOBnQ90XjZ1Ovu7rlu2xfOHKniEUn5LW7egDghoGeCs9UQ3c-O75PQJKNci9Q/s1600/entry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Nd9Ck68Ug2qxqJNUYsGIgAslu0TdCX9Wo0ADkc9LN7AiK98JU9b1zypJr8vr8NT4t8Vn4qEYUjUlUXOBnQ90XjZ1Ovu7rlu2xfOHKniEUn5LW7egDghoGeCs9UQ3c-O75PQJKNci9Q/s1600/entry.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front hall, client kitchen and stairway beyond</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bright accents of golden light dance slowly across the floor, illuminating some corners, concealing others.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHKkVGX1Ahs14LCJ_O38t8q-TPiTE0w2mFrQB54UB9Ic4RV_OxgJskGLofoETwOcfAnO1pbXkJf2C9JCvcByy_6QIBM7XuPnA4KP8tHeVQ1_PzerEwrIl1TA6SHjz_594mnZN5ITg7hA/s1600/mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHKkVGX1Ahs14LCJ_O38t8q-TPiTE0w2mFrQB54UB9Ic4RV_OxgJskGLofoETwOcfAnO1pbXkJf2C9JCvcByy_6QIBM7XuPnA4KP8tHeVQ1_PzerEwrIl1TA6SHjz_594mnZN5ITg7hA/s1600/mirror.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stairwell leading to the second floor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
The sun through windows makes bold strokes on walls, against which shadows are dark and well-defined.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-AvtHKfzwDKSN9f-p4djn24bU-msCjpY1xOwlT40zzXJWYyjq2gAO-V58qvEoj6PXsDzrlo9SWfuErHFrcf1dNEcTKb7Vtv4KjhwMn1tyQ-LYqNTJGohxlMeBuWzM5lFQh5dladVa1w/s1600/blankets+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-AvtHKfzwDKSN9f-p4djn24bU-msCjpY1xOwlT40zzXJWYyjq2gAO-V58qvEoj6PXsDzrlo9SWfuErHFrcf1dNEcTKb7Vtv4KjhwMn1tyQ-LYqNTJGohxlMeBuWzM5lFQh5dladVa1w/s1600/blankets+copy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our bedroom skylight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Bedding is left out to freshen in the warm air.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzESirJDI5EvNiplzeb2PWA48l2JMXkbv34MwgnFUQmwPvqFDPdb-nlNGYF3x32LGUhd70NHXjZIx2hRRNc0tQu3UKaoLeUlmK9EnaaPBQLTtP-KuSGuA99iq-3szH8sIxO8QKaOcKWw/s1600/flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzESirJDI5EvNiplzeb2PWA48l2JMXkbv34MwgnFUQmwPvqFDPdb-nlNGYF3x32LGUhd70NHXjZIx2hRRNc0tQu3UKaoLeUlmK9EnaaPBQLTtP-KuSGuA99iq-3szH8sIxO8QKaOcKWw/s1600/flowers.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bright bunch of tulips on the table in the entry<br /> <br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Tulips, daffodils and other spring flowers bloom and grace tables with their enthusiasm for life.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWz_8rBGum6yGJQD1r4fmlipsUnDWSX2mTO2ud5lywCE0yIMaHlzaVc6FHGXiFd9zLB3WFIWD-msPSBYqdJd6SGqwCtvqbn2NNBX8j3k7Dyg7DbiL1CooP3wI-Sg8Zr_M_Eka7SHMSrg/s1600/terracexm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWz_8rBGum6yGJQD1r4fmlipsUnDWSX2mTO2ud5lywCE0yIMaHlzaVc6FHGXiFd9zLB3WFIWD-msPSBYqdJd6SGqwCtvqbn2NNBX8j3k7Dyg7DbiL1CooP3wI-Sg8Zr_M_Eka7SHMSrg/s1600/terracexm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front terrace where our chaise longue has come out of winter storage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Morning sunbaths on the terrace are back in style. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdydoEhvnjDdWRAqL9SOxNa5MtCKi-REeCDDEabeugNoRi2nL0fK7wXArLyNAx8W3zEbCavSB8OQ4ZOODveaJN3bMceV5hVqcuYde2TIzJDcoYAJpEYmX-BR82sqJyNuOvEqkOCoPZ9g/s1600/bitdssm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdydoEhvnjDdWRAqL9SOxNa5MtCKi-REeCDDEabeugNoRi2nL0fK7wXArLyNAx8W3zEbCavSB8OQ4ZOODveaJN3bMceV5hVqcuYde2TIzJDcoYAJpEYmX-BR82sqJyNuOvEqkOCoPZ9g/s1600/bitdssm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sparrow and morning dove surveying the village from our roof</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Birds return to town, filling the air with their happy, purposeful banter. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6ETJSH8EjzBYqzdNYLyHtQOE51fFaB8wCpRb7_th91UkvZnBoUY8ZYSQybahkKvJ5wss2KTfUFhgQZhZRtQAPhpmjqvLzvgT2FkBqTSPdXA0ui2kw_0JqoLKapgbi9m98nYWUwXKbw/s1600/perchevisit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6ETJSH8EjzBYqzdNYLyHtQOE51fFaB8wCpRb7_th91UkvZnBoUY8ZYSQybahkKvJ5wss2KTfUFhgQZhZRtQAPhpmjqvLzvgT2FkBqTSPdXA0ui2kw_0JqoLKapgbi9m98nYWUwXKbw/s1600/perchevisit.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical Perche landscape with the green green grass and contented cows in a symbiotic relationship</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Outings are made. We have gone into the the Perche several times, most notably to see the newly purchased bungalow of our American friends <a href="http://quiddity2.blogspot.fr/" target="_blank">Dawne</a> and Dean. We met them last fall when they stayed at <a href="http://www.maisonconti.com/" target="_blank">Maison Conti.</a> They are slowly pulling up roots in New York and starting a new life in the Perche countryside. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBIaMzA5kteY_9K_UgrrSh9jILRD2MZnjLgKqSjLk8oElzuea8HjljZQqmu3k3EOzrZ7wI_AC9gKE1QfGGZAWYc1lxDYttT5OaZ83Kz66ohcT-SwTbQpKqOZ4ReDlDI3oonYeHRX8M-A/s1600/lunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBIaMzA5kteY_9K_UgrrSh9jILRD2MZnjLgKqSjLk8oElzuea8HjljZQqmu3k3EOzrZ7wI_AC9gKE1QfGGZAWYc1lxDYttT5OaZ83Kz66ohcT-SwTbQpKqOZ4ReDlDI3oonYeHRX8M-A/s1600/lunch.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/iluvfrance/my-photography-work/" target="_blank">Dawne Polis</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Along with Jonathan and Renata, we lunch in Mortagne-au-Perche near the charming cottage that now belongs to Dawne and Dean.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gH5ms1IXcaXBqH09V0WBf4BX-R19UUB-mHCegILllha8g6r5VPq3HyTjarqp8EWUgxwhnoCIWjUSqgMF3PvEr8RGj6ShyphenhyphenNUmDyeY-G-teVIqbATm7VkotW-wvF-grWIIR4bwxy0mhw/s1600/lamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gH5ms1IXcaXBqH09V0WBf4BX-R19UUB-mHCegILllha8g6r5VPq3HyTjarqp8EWUgxwhnoCIWjUSqgMF3PvEr8RGj6ShyphenhyphenNUmDyeY-G-teVIqbATm7VkotW-wvF-grWIIR4bwxy0mhw/s1600/lamp.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my work stations in the studio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The atelier is bright and inviting.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLS27rbToqa0puzU4QZWl3OnoQSpSAbwRRcfzW4I4Kt0AAl-W1XQxUNFebnQDSP8NO6I-3Dz-JUKxBeIfaYnic2mNyJII7JdAZIdHxPSIScmhnG_SaIhmc-KydtIAnM3NeFGeuAFpeYA/s1600/paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLS27rbToqa0puzU4QZWl3OnoQSpSAbwRRcfzW4I4Kt0AAl-W1XQxUNFebnQDSP8NO6I-3Dz-JUKxBeIfaYnic2mNyJII7JdAZIdHxPSIScmhnG_SaIhmc-KydtIAnM3NeFGeuAFpeYA/s1600/paint.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand colored photo etching of one of my drawings in progress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I spend leisurely hours, working on many projects while Rick is away from home on a construction job for Dawne and Dean.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSMvE6eRbaXJT68JTBM0k0WZ0medm16WlLfOoN2wo0jgElkl0fi3EMygzNNtwNux9GvQrrAT_u34EHndKlQJ4bYbNsLTF7-Miqfx5e8KkxH1chDGD-7Mo65XgNmNpv2S1w0k6m_35mnQ/s1600/printing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSMvE6eRbaXJT68JTBM0k0WZ0medm16WlLfOoN2wo0jgElkl0fi3EMygzNNtwNux9GvQrrAT_u34EHndKlQJ4bYbNsLTF7-Miqfx5e8KkxH1chDGD-7Mo65XgNmNpv2S1w0k6m_35mnQ/s1600/printing.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Latest etching project</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
And I begin a rather large etching plate of bare trees, the last image inspired by winter I think!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jGW8qAxYxdD9eQTrNY-DU5uJgHRhCcjIwHcd3p14zI9kxPgYvN7SwnZbF2Ncz7J2lNv4ENzZw_WBsW-NdJW4rpV6Q2Y4KfYGnlcy_nUTBXB3sQ2cxAT3RXFa1DO2ftzmU4bxXp9ZIw/s1600/treessm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jGW8qAxYxdD9eQTrNY-DU5uJgHRhCcjIwHcd3p14zI9kxPgYvN7SwnZbF2Ncz7J2lNv4ENzZw_WBsW-NdJW4rpV6Q2Y4KfYGnlcy_nUTBXB3sQ2cxAT3RXFa1DO2ftzmU4bxXp9ZIw/s1600/treessm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our back windows at about 7PM</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Days end as they began, with apricot-colored skies.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-86990119688774388322014-02-13T17:26:00.000+01:002014-02-13T17:26:46.408+01:00Lost in Time<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJ_-nn7Kz3h4q6s1RiLlEVRyb-9c6UVfpIiOpHjeizstuLwSswHdddW1-wSJY4W_9uPkgqbuoegr2GSxxrhtEztEYdSPoohGfRhbCauxQWuntU1PYhQGoks6Rz2wrfZ0F0A5WHaV_qQ/s1600/opener.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">February Sunset</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I guess my friends and family wonder what has become of me. Certainly I have found it hard to keep up with my blogging, and all other forms of communication it seems. Days roll by in a haze of activity, but when I look back at what I have accomplished I hardly know how to account for the time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have been experiencing an incredible winter, with skies so blue and sun so bright some days that it is hard to concentrate on anything else. While people in England are drifting away in flood waters, we here in northern France hardly know it is still winter. We shouldn't get complacent I know, as last year Easter was much colder than Christmas. One prefers having the seasons at the proper time of year! Local conventional wisdom suggests that frosts are possible, even likely, well into May. So far this winter our temperatures have been nowhere near that low. We have started to spend a little time in the garden, already anticipating spring.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Finally, we also finished our studio renovations, which included a new piece of furniture which Rick put together for me. It was designed with my friend <a href="http://www.riekestudios.com/studio.html" target="_blank">Gail Rieke</a>'s beautiful suitcase wall in mind:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNj7fjDiV5cY2ksaSQybt1PV9hjVhd2z5zc3KpA8IobtUt1vZLDbv0LkrsfruusVcdkgfrcC5loSIYO0yEGWCjV1EuqIoIBgj_87nF543vMfwmVlw4equW-Fp1HVTDPj9CA0Kj2DTvEw/s1600/Gail_Rieke_suitcase-wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNj7fjDiV5cY2ksaSQybt1PV9hjVhd2z5zc3KpA8IobtUt1vZLDbv0LkrsfruusVcdkgfrcC5loSIYO0yEGWCjV1EuqIoIBgj_87nF543vMfwmVlw4equW-Fp1HVTDPj9CA0Kj2DTvEw/s1600/Gail_Rieke_suitcase-wall.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gail Rieke's studio in Santa Fe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course I don't have all those beautiful old valises and I don't make the kind of art that Gail does. Each one of those suitcases on the wall contains an entire journey world, a journal of a specific voyage that Gail has taken. If you're lucky enough to visit her on one of her open studio days, she just might unpack one of them for you. They are not just random things thrown into a container. Not at all. Each is an incredible assemblage.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So what I designed for Rick to make was based more on the idea of having a little custom made shelf for all my art supplies. What a challenge I presented to my ever-game husband. It took many days to complete.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7BDdhGuFyd6HPZ-MWZLyl_6InQH-K-sTLkRECCNlGh4FRahG6FP7OFJh1VPCQTDKB4muTkjXzfgcAV1hAecJ3zZKLeuovq8Xv2fObBlH3gyd1bt8cXaCb9qwKTfI2qle831Cx0FmwrQ/s1600/shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7BDdhGuFyd6HPZ-MWZLyl_6InQH-K-sTLkRECCNlGh4FRahG6FP7OFJh1VPCQTDKB4muTkjXzfgcAV1hAecJ3zZKLeuovq8Xv2fObBlH3gyd1bt8cXaCb9qwKTfI2qle831Cx0FmwrQ/s1600/shelf.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New supply cupboard in the studio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was very pleased with the results; it makes my space so much more efficient. After building a new sewing corner unit for me as well, hanging all my pictures, cleaning up the print room and even creating a little darkroom, I feel very well served for some big and fun projects in 2014. Now if I could only slow down time, perhaps I could get to some of them!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmRuj2hRp_14zgPkEnWCqfah5pIwt741AUjjgYB89AwuCaIjDguysH1SPKBDm0dYygAYaz8dWPn26D6l7zYfMcGdO_c8WZ4-aW64iEOqS3mV0J2P-kWQ7EyL50Xh-mKYq4y5PAjWeLQ/s1600/studio3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmRuj2hRp_14zgPkEnWCqfah5pIwt741AUjjgYB89AwuCaIjDguysH1SPKBDm0dYygAYaz8dWPn26D6l7zYfMcGdO_c8WZ4-aW64iEOqS3mV0J2P-kWQ7EyL50Xh-mKYq4y5PAjWeLQ/s1600/studio3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunny day in the studio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpoGTs3o8JKuSghyB0hNcpDU16lZS_q57qQ-vgDHVL8DKzSn91ugoiKOkjVYkGB4HtrlptDbl91ntywxqB82eC4bwc19QJ_FP5uwrTlJpnozS08k_CDWRGZDUfHgS9lFdlcFlevQbfQ/s1600/studio1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpoGTs3o8JKuSghyB0hNcpDU16lZS_q57qQ-vgDHVL8DKzSn91ugoiKOkjVYkGB4HtrlptDbl91ntywxqB82eC4bwc19QJ_FP5uwrTlJpnozS08k_CDWRGZDUfHgS9lFdlcFlevQbfQ/s1600/studio1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A neat table waiting for messy projects</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjy55q2Wj9dVBDpnZF3p8vHsgLCNoBCzs7cuvRg8HbazYB8Y7erBgJeedp8B6JCA04uVZRleu91llw_Iv11deOU88pennnK_R6hTcmdjzfuSLCC-GmkpEkMuHacVJkC6OSevA38EarQ/s1600/studio2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjy55q2Wj9dVBDpnZF3p8vHsgLCNoBCzs7cuvRg8HbazYB8Y7erBgJeedp8B6JCA04uVZRleu91llw_Iv11deOU88pennnK_R6hTcmdjzfuSLCC-GmkpEkMuHacVJkC6OSevA38EarQ/s1600/studio2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspiration wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have been doing some sewing projects and some printmaking, but these are all secret projects that I can't post. It is Quinn and Zinnie's birthday month, and the presents are not yet presented to them, so can't be displayed to the world as yet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can show you a painting I recently completed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTcFtEmEHtrEV4FUJCQc2jHYZqN7WV0EgBgTTPDoG5FSDZLuoRrVzqJoSTBnbVtiY-etFCMukTSvYw7Lxjpz5GzUhFvUrDd-VTLY86bjmESxjH4ogYcglDwM4OnJVTgZltLMOIETCiA/s1600/painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTcFtEmEHtrEV4FUJCQc2jHYZqN7WV0EgBgTTPDoG5FSDZLuoRrVzqJoSTBnbVtiY-etFCMukTSvYw7Lxjpz5GzUhFvUrDd-VTLY86bjmESxjH4ogYcglDwM4OnJVTgZltLMOIETCiA/s1600/painting.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Color and texture, an oil painting experiment</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This year I intend to be doing more photography as well. My darkroom is set up for new experimentation with cyanotype and photo-etching.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's a bouquet I picked from the climbing rose at the front of the house just before Rick pruned it back. Be sure to enjoy the table the rose sits on, which was a gift from our dear friend David, who found it in his barn in Brittany. At first glance we thought the legs were hand turned, but look a little closer, you'll see how they are made. Quite clever and funny!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1JmuO-8Nf4doV21t_FzUTxVVg13YqU6Mn0Kop9rCP8jZsRegPLuEwTJT3dpTsnaJk7kyJPlYGWq2bW1KguqTdbON_V85m216Zj9z-3wUV-AFwZcxU52vqig3oKzQGH18IAuzL_JQSQ/s1600/flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1JmuO-8Nf4doV21t_FzUTxVVg13YqU6Mn0Kop9rCP8jZsRegPLuEwTJT3dpTsnaJk7kyJPlYGWq2bW1KguqTdbON_V85m216Zj9z-3wUV-AFwZcxU52vqig3oKzQGH18IAuzL_JQSQ/s1600/flowers.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow roses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Valentine's day to all!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ68_7H3ekENOvDlmgSi3jWt4AKQiUxQjR0hDXjhLnUycw15I_P41ssjWxPfnVx1-rQ01rz9R1DtouLv0nU2RaWDEQB8efssa3Nu13Ut6mA0019WFPmG9ZtAoypQdvtzv8mIIcOK7xJw/s1600/heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ68_7H3ekENOvDlmgSi3jWt4AKQiUxQjR0hDXjhLnUycw15I_P41ssjWxPfnVx1-rQ01rz9R1DtouLv0nU2RaWDEQB8efssa3Nu13Ut6mA0019WFPmG9ZtAoypQdvtzv8mIIcOK7xJw/s1600/heart.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forest of Montmirail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-5825630887589742382014-01-29T16:09:00.001+01:002014-01-29T16:23:06.342+01:00To Paris and Back Again<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJs6feJ2SwWFxsHhI89lNCtatEl_QqZCO6f1wpTsxQhaRqFsGxQULrKdLJ7hJPoztcfehETuXySAknS-J_2MLyKA1h4gyG7XypjCCoV0XPETaJ4dndPchfclvM4K7r1ksOU1pH5UMJaQ/s1600/open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJs6feJ2SwWFxsHhI89lNCtatEl_QqZCO6f1wpTsxQhaRqFsGxQULrKdLJ7hJPoztcfehETuXySAknS-J_2MLyKA1h4gyG7XypjCCoV0XPETaJ4dndPchfclvM4K7r1ksOU1pH5UMJaQ/s1600/open.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wintery skies</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We took a long weekend in Paris, where we enjoyed several delightful cultural activities, on which I report here. First, though, it has to be said that visiting the grandchildren was the primary objective.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_M_O80wAeuhWWb9uhB9HMG35YQSLQsCD3MsT35vOM2KyYjYTN5jG7UNRkKi5Q4niElpkhgg0wCdFEVNevb-n_Om2h6WkDIK3vn8ZeBD62e5NeVgn-xpSpPcF_MIeP9q4ujeBnmMvjdg/s1600/breakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_M_O80wAeuhWWb9uhB9HMG35YQSLQsCD3MsT35vOM2KyYjYTN5jG7UNRkKi5Q4niElpkhgg0wCdFEVNevb-n_Om2h6WkDIK3vn8ZeBD62e5NeVgn-xpSpPcF_MIeP9q4ujeBnmMvjdg/s1600/breakfast.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast at Emily's. All one needs on the table: fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, coffee, bongo drums and Zinnie.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Quinn turned five this week and Zinnie will be two early next month. <br />
<br />
One thing I always enjoy doing while we're at Emily's house is visiting the local farmer's market in Le Pré Saint Gervais. It's open several times a week and consistently has the best seasonal produce available, as well as excellent cheese, good fresh fish and deli meats. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvsC_IyLR6FYbkp0piYMXsD4AqKIE39nOVExTPoheXQT2aw2-A-Nf41YEh3UDQJQEAM4Up7IVbMq_KaRaHoK1LL_3lgOa7XFBd7FVH-KW6WA_uVO_vtyrUyJg2t7zFzy3rpgXVIK7JQQ/s1600/market2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvsC_IyLR6FYbkp0piYMXsD4AqKIE39nOVExTPoheXQT2aw2-A-Nf41YEh3UDQJQEAM4Up7IVbMq_KaRaHoK1LL_3lgOa7XFBd7FVH-KW6WA_uVO_vtyrUyJg2t7zFzy3rpgXVIK7JQQ/s1600/market2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese counter<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As much as I like life in the country, it does seem a big treat and adventure to travel in to the capital where there is so much to do, see and buy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_R8GuHdK3FDpbW8tKUrVoG_t0laGCe4s_Js4OGhGubeRPDu9uL0R1Hmjz6M9MBpjyxQt-t31Ju-pE87fO_sK7WcnKIaDvVCxDjuIIkxHOtZQKLS2tdq8PYXym3LzxmlBvbKVhyGHloQ/s1600/market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_R8GuHdK3FDpbW8tKUrVoG_t0laGCe4s_Js4OGhGubeRPDu9uL0R1Hmjz6M9MBpjyxQt-t31Ju-pE87fO_sK7WcnKIaDvVCxDjuIIkxHOtZQKLS2tdq8PYXym3LzxmlBvbKVhyGHloQ/s1600/market.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organic vegetable stand</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
While we did some shopping, Jos took the kids to the playground next door. The weather here is still very mild.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8dkBNFCIcLuhUO8SRJcPNjuPHq7L3ajw4pmWCVBG7SiXYBWGknhEfMaSne2q5TtR7_r7s2P9OecPT72wWH6EHdN8lbcZOJnQQZiEgNeYuS8WFuFy-ZBE7pthfMMYdQgkul3AL8NwAA/s1600/playground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8dkBNFCIcLuhUO8SRJcPNjuPHq7L3ajw4pmWCVBG7SiXYBWGknhEfMaSne2q5TtR7_r7s2P9OecPT72wWH6EHdN8lbcZOJnQQZiEgNeYuS8WFuFy-ZBE7pthfMMYdQgkul3AL8NwAA/s1600/playground.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful buildings surround the children's play area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Jos is in a new show in Paris. We were given a couple of tickets and very much enjoyed going to see <a href="http://www.colline.fr/" target="_blank"><i>Walden</i></a>, playing in Gambetta, a part of Paris I had never explored before. It is a short bus ride from Emily's house. The show is a multimedia event, live music and imagery with readings from Thoreau. At the beginning of the evening, photos taken of Walden pond over an entire year, from a camera mounted on a tripod in a fixed location, are projected onto the back wall of the stage, and they very slowly cycle through all the seasons. It was somewhat mesmerizing.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjinxDFhi8Bq6aZR2mp6G_zT3kfWkpJFdDjpgIC26kwIsVgpi3RoKdq9Yyz2Q2w8CS2rSyfYAKfFjITb4pwgFy73PCM0I3GcGqjTvjzq2nS71zv7-W750aF7W67oEaGtDs1sH-i5Tmcbg/s1600/walden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjinxDFhi8Bq6aZR2mp6G_zT3kfWkpJFdDjpgIC26kwIsVgpi3RoKdq9Yyz2Q2w8CS2rSyfYAKfFjITb4pwgFy73PCM0I3GcGqjTvjzq2nS71zv7-W750aF7W67oEaGtDs1sH-i5Tmcbg/s1600/walden.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A scene from <i>Walden</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
On Sunday we were invited to lunch at our friend Nelly's beautiful apartment in Saint Germain des Prés.We took Quinn with us. Emily and Zinnie joined us afterwards. Nelly lives in my favorite part of Paris, and from her apartment, which is on a very quiet dead-end street with a charming park at the end, you can walk to all the major museums, the Jardin de Luxembourg and the river. People who know Paris well divide themselves into Left or Right Bank enthusiasts. I count myself as a definite Left-Banker.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_gyP91KPZgQ3nyAwvdLZSLvE2liCNn14-Ryl0EYuyDXgesGOU6b7x-_8xw4v2P0EINugw0UOsyAoAPwFozLjboGyNnEpidR_Fh0tRFFEj1FwRk4cwLhCHkLhf5aJ_eSbdEDAckb5yOA/s1600/atnellys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_gyP91KPZgQ3nyAwvdLZSLvE2liCNn14-Ryl0EYuyDXgesGOU6b7x-_8xw4v2P0EINugw0UOsyAoAPwFozLjboGyNnEpidR_Fh0tRFFEj1FwRk4cwLhCHkLhf5aJ_eSbdEDAckb5yOA/s1600/atnellys.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick, Nelly and me in her library. Nelly is an art teacher and has an enviable collection of art reference books</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Nelly wanted an excuse to visit a museum... we happily obliged. We decided on a show of Etruscan artifacts at the nearby Musee Maillol.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQy_5_TzH9-npLuP9-fR-QMS6zLRhlmvlcJgmK_tT4XMnIB92ER-c5OpaRNSvtz5ZVud0l-WcSJmcvyqI5z1kRGy8M8GSxMIYPfXcVzaTF9wAPS62M0eM7liIBk7YvGmgauwf0KiA76w/s1600/etruscans+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQy_5_TzH9-npLuP9-fR-QMS6zLRhlmvlcJgmK_tT4XMnIB92ER-c5OpaRNSvtz5ZVud0l-WcSJmcvyqI5z1kRGy8M8GSxMIYPfXcVzaTF9wAPS62M0eM7liIBk7YvGmgauwf0KiA76w/s1600/etruscans+copy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maillol museum, one of our favorites in Paris</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
With Zinnie needing a nap, and Quinn stuck at knee-level, unable to see into the display cases, it was probably not the best choice. We enjoyed it a lot, but only as we raced past.<br />
<br />
The biggest cultural event of our very cultural week was a concert at the <a href="http://www.sallepleyel.fr/francais/accueil.aspx" target="_blank">Salle Pleyel</a>, Paris' main venue for symphonic music. Jos and Emily had given Rick tickets for his birthday last November for a very special event, which we have been anticipating ever since. They went along with us, as well as a large group of their friends and creative acquaintances. Among them was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Pennac" target="_blank">Daniel Pennac</a>, one of the most successful contemporary French authors. He's a very nice guy. Currently an animation made from one of his books, <i>Ernest and Celestine</i> is up for an Oscar. Enjoy the trailer:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/25IG2YefQXk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
The concert was The Orquesta Sinfónica Simón Bolívar, conducted by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gustavo_Dudamel" target="_blank">Gustavo Dudamel</a>. It is a Venezuelan youth orchestra with graduates <span class="st">of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Sistema" target="_blank">El Sistema</a>, the incredible free musical educational program created in 1975 by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_Antonio_Abreu" target="_blank">José Abreu</a>. The musicians are between the ages of 17 and 27. Dudamel, who is also currently the music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, is a graduate of the program and has been their conductor since he was 18. He is one of the most famous conductors in the world and is only 32.</span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st">By some fortunate chance, we sat right in the midst of the Venezuelan embassy personnel and the great man himself, José Abreu.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiGHwSuF6t-Jj1BG6WW8JasGulUPH5vxZi86yBgHtUZ0kUTKJHh9fw8U4UF4q7LYxhjuLVI4YTdhNTHXDCAE6KzZCceQ2mW2iHMbZmj3QJ884SKb0geOTkVMce5UZ_9zK82-dgWO_tQ/s1600/elsys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiGHwSuF6t-Jj1BG6WW8JasGulUPH5vxZi86yBgHtUZ0kUTKJHh9fw8U4UF4q7LYxhjuLVI4YTdhNTHXDCAE6KzZCceQ2mW2iHMbZmj3QJ884SKb0geOTkVMce5UZ_9zK82-dgWO_tQ/s1600/elsys.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">José Abreu, founder of <i>El Sistem</i>a</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you do not know about this program, which offers free musical training and instruments to Venezuelan barrio children, you are, in my opinion, missing one of the most hopeful stories of our times.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_W-LncsW3qDmc3SrLSdhnv-LrsQMYfMMTjcesiVmbFFCzDQwLNiuROxMrwUes5MStBvN-YAMEFR83BYVa9eJjMXU5Bn9h2EHHv2E61S97YEaDIyTEye0KY3GDSS9J3YYaxj2CXX2GQw/s1600/dude.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_W-LncsW3qDmc3SrLSdhnv-LrsQMYfMMTjcesiVmbFFCzDQwLNiuROxMrwUes5MStBvN-YAMEFR83BYVa9eJjMXU5Bn9h2EHHv2E61S97YEaDIyTEye0KY3GDSS9J3YYaxj2CXX2GQw/s1600/dude.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The orchestra played four encores to enthusiastic standing ovations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
These are kids, but the music is of the highest professional quality. Take a few minutes to enjoy this video taken in London a few years ago. You get a little history along with your music:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/43tqQhOTCgQ" width="800"></iframe>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-53523421648608828622014-01-17T13:37:00.000+01:002014-01-17T19:25:08.538+01:00Start the day in kindness<div class="episode_title">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUTgOwhFUwgp6-3gvIVQ4HnLUf1Np3ZZeWHBYDgRaoSiyfSRD84fGldy5MrubxzVWimp1Lc1lyVnBylifArCzSC8GqiJ6OB2aFHnHrcF0iL-HAYtGbJEWYDBM56hPaClG6tn-dwjiAgw/s1600/countryside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUTgOwhFUwgp6-3gvIVQ4HnLUf1Np3ZZeWHBYDgRaoSiyfSRD84fGldy5MrubxzVWimp1Lc1lyVnBylifArCzSC8GqiJ6OB2aFHnHrcF0iL-HAYtGbJEWYDBM56hPaClG6tn-dwjiAgw/s1600/countryside.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">January view from our walled garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">2014 has begun with a burst of energy. Days have flown by, leaving the holidays a pleasant but receding memory. I have been working very hard in the atelier and have only just come up for a little air and a tardy visit to my blog.</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">I did think of you when I heard a wonderful poem on <a href="http://writersalmanac.publicradio.org/podcast/" target="_blank">Garrison Keillor's Writer's Almanac podcast</a>:</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">Why I Wake Early</span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="author">
<span style="font-size: small;">by Mary Oliver</span></div>
<div class="author">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;">
Hello, sun in my face.<br />
Hello, you who make the morning<br />
and spread it over the fields<br />
and into the faces of the tulips<br />
and the nodding morning glories,<br />
and into the windows of, even, the<br />
miserable and crotchety—<br /><br />
best preacher that ever was,<br />
dear star, that just happens<br />
to be where you are in the universe<br />
to keep us from ever-darkness,<br />
to ease us with warm touching,<br />
to hold us in the great hands of light—<br />
good morning, good morning, good morning.<br /><br />
Watch, now, how I start the day<br />
in happiness, in kindness. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yyxDRams-GcMiBi8z4NJQPBjU3h3MKzrl8acpgjNqCZXCUD5u8EZu8704KT5vofMqGZMTKNEast8hIDcKpPxC8qvxNohbt7vcLqLibqHnY-wfpJ7gqY3M-Ac2jxe2E234FmR-WpDvA/s1600/sunlight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yyxDRams-GcMiBi8z4NJQPBjU3h3MKzrl8acpgjNqCZXCUD5u8EZu8704KT5vofMqGZMTKNEast8hIDcKpPxC8qvxNohbt7vcLqLibqHnY-wfpJ7gqY3M-Ac2jxe2E234FmR-WpDvA/s1600/sunlight.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entryway in morning light</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>Winter light is magical at the Maison Conti. Sitting high above the countryside, I look out our front windows to glorious sunrises every morning and from the back to magnificent sunsets at the end of these shorter days. In between, the low angle of the sun bathes the house in golden light, reflecting off mirrors, illuminating objects and casting wonderful shadows.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbe2m5owRfxIv8aCVA1H3kWqbrdHJOV5AXTRMrZhVjraTyKU1PI0snyY43vb4dXwrIsHF-p4WyC6cler23wpOSIAwAgQE4s6L8AtWFFAaG8k3o0rUJs-EPo3ThY-7x_lRizTIguegJA/s1600/lightplay2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbe2m5owRfxIv8aCVA1H3kWqbrdHJOV5AXTRMrZhVjraTyKU1PI0snyY43vb4dXwrIsHF-p4WyC6cler23wpOSIAwAgQE4s6L8AtWFFAaG8k3o0rUJs-EPo3ThY-7x_lRizTIguegJA/s1600/lightplay2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main staircase to the ground floor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Of course, winter time is much quieter in our business, though it must be said, not completely dead. Still, we do have days of long lazy mornings, languid afternoons and cozy nights by the fireplace.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8trTUFEMHSREVGEx-KXgS2PgG5D3rZSgUM21UzYE7wMUV6h7lTAOyUY8J0FNz1WGMGj86n9EA5WSLh-1BvRcCO7V6gfquERrillhr_I344c_p3BYtAouWujr1O1JtPkPWpg5s3sWFw/s1600/lightplay3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8trTUFEMHSREVGEx-KXgS2PgG5D3rZSgUM21UzYE7wMUV6h7lTAOyUY8J0FNz1WGMGj86n9EA5WSLh-1BvRcCO7V6gfquERrillhr_I344c_p3BYtAouWujr1O1JtPkPWpg5s3sWFw/s1600/lightplay3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick at breakfast in a sunny window / mirror collection</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
So far, this winter has been extremely mild. No polar vortex here. We anticipate a bit more cold to come (last year it was colder at Easter than at Christmas), but even so, when the sun comes out, which it does surprisingly often, the house stays comfortable.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXagyMPRAQM6yDd-sOBmgmuHpCXwVkWer8RmteHjN_BewXekl9I3Mnp4FEE3L-MopGEXvFgQSe1A38gLtAVZn8PMXiyAff66n6LjIGWwMAmqcOiV3ltvkRn4DtATGiavjbQIeIpv7mg/s1600/lightplay4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXagyMPRAQM6yDd-sOBmgmuHpCXwVkWer8RmteHjN_BewXekl9I3Mnp4FEE3L-MopGEXvFgQSe1A38gLtAVZn8PMXiyAff66n6LjIGWwMAmqcOiV3ltvkRn4DtATGiavjbQIeIpv7mg/s1600/lightplay4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stairway to our apartment</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We have spent more than two solid weeks, working from morning to evening, repainting and reorganizing the atelier. It took much longer than I could have anticipated, but I am very pleased with the results and it is certainly clean from top to bottom. It is a very pleasant place to work.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtYhU7x2ndR16G-6NT_psCZ4FhrfugjJTRJGGezamgpPwrToVECzD047wRQDkkw8Z7MXKsBACsjkx09LvBmDY48HROijRwlDWJNNGv0rp_kmY3W2rm0ejRMgaPNM4F7Q74vmyUgZBpQ/s1600/atelier1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtYhU7x2ndR16G-6NT_psCZ4FhrfugjJTRJGGezamgpPwrToVECzD047wRQDkkw8Z7MXKsBACsjkx09LvBmDY48HROijRwlDWJNNGv0rp_kmY3W2rm0ejRMgaPNM4F7Q74vmyUgZBpQ/s1600/atelier1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old yellow walls are now white. Much better!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We actually have lots more to accomplished before the job is entirely done, as we have not yet started work in the press room or the acid room, and Rick still intends to build me some shelves for the studio. I thought this would be just one of several redecorating jobs for the season, but it may turn out to be the only one.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJi0wflQknSaE08A75MCZjCDUzD8_hFowbjAkFEo3oPCLns0Xgh5Tv6HvV94KM_xeeComzteyPjgXtGVJUSAeDmZ_dM4Z_0HYoqph_bXj9xW9bPZcW6-P56E4NGng9HDDm799dujZYw/s1600/atelier3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJi0wflQknSaE08A75MCZjCDUzD8_hFowbjAkFEo3oPCLns0Xgh5Tv6HvV94KM_xeeComzteyPjgXtGVJUSAeDmZ_dM4Z_0HYoqph_bXj9xW9bPZcW6-P56E4NGng9HDDm799dujZYw/s1600/atelier3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organized and ready for a happy new year</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
These mild days beg for walks to the garden and around the town. Winters like this one offer many delights. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimLabQ2fKlo59p8Ey3BAFsulSt565aP2l01BLTSNIgqHFlAB3sIGjIXbN3HPdgTxdeJfQrqciivRjvAZfO_r0C_iz_nXnUUPKp901lc6BPS33c_dYh7VvzSw3640PrNxFUhSGGm8brWg/s1600/montmirail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimLabQ2fKlo59p8Ey3BAFsulSt565aP2l01BLTSNIgqHFlAB3sIGjIXbN3HPdgTxdeJfQrqciivRjvAZfO_r0C_iz_nXnUUPKp901lc6BPS33c_dYh7VvzSw3640PrNxFUhSGGm8brWg/s1600/montmirail.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The road to our garden</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
****</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I wanted to let you know that Michael and Victoria Copeland will be offering two watercolor workshops at the Maison Conti in September/October 2014. The first session is already full, but there is still space for the second one. </div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjOU8DjFKJBMCTzMkEawGydBjF4JUf4-JnJ_7sChH_H4lzskPA-7Wt8EPZfXJIQRhbNB-LvtsqNptvx9m-uP2pYNoNktO8cYI7AnV7n2sspTFnRFnZ4AEJMB7-yOK9iaM2VFp3gf2JMw/s1600/sketchbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjOU8DjFKJBMCTzMkEawGydBjF4JUf4-JnJ_7sChH_H4lzskPA-7Wt8EPZfXJIQRhbNB-LvtsqNptvx9m-uP2pYNoNktO8cYI7AnV7n2sspTFnRFnZ4AEJMB7-yOK9iaM2VFp3gf2JMw/s1600/sketchbook.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detailed information can be found on their website</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Be sure to visit their website for more information or to sign up for this course. We are really looking forward to hosting the Copeland's and their students! Visit:<a href="http://sketchbooktours.com/" target="_blank"> sketchbook tours</a><br />
<br />
Michael is a talented semi-abstract painter, represented in the U.S. by several galleries, but the course will focus on more realistic landscape watercolor painting. As you can see from his work, he has lots of color-singing techniques to teach you!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEpdxXsuTo10iJkAY4SZjAxmv0ZIFs1kEAislx9M4f9sOlS_e7eHEdUrpuxjJcd4a4HSUmpaVUaavjKDpCLQYQ-_MfJIDyshapqzPGUrEC7QY97uZ1Np28pwvTFdcaU3Rr87fXJ2IQBA/s1600/copelandart1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEpdxXsuTo10iJkAY4SZjAxmv0ZIFs1kEAislx9M4f9sOlS_e7eHEdUrpuxjJcd4a4HSUmpaVUaavjKDpCLQYQ-_MfJIDyshapqzPGUrEC7QY97uZ1Np28pwvTFdcaU3Rr87fXJ2IQBA/s1600/copelandart1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images by Michael Copeland</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
****</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I hope the new year is looking promising to you. Please come visit again. Next time I will report on our extended visit to wintery Paris. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80XmvTYKqYfYSMWyIIkG_sYozyzRiIWnZ7ynl8OIlls14rNW8pGNYbevnQp-Zo0OYP8LIRGMi9zLywy4Iwi3Qy30mR09jSYTKzqioDO71OeaWzMnC7-ZXcX5mfcGVo8g65INVSuJYpA/s1600/berries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80XmvTYKqYfYSMWyIIkG_sYozyzRiIWnZ7ynl8OIlls14rNW8pGNYbevnQp-Zo0OYP8LIRGMi9zLywy4Iwi3Qy30mR09jSYTKzqioDO71OeaWzMnC7-ZXcX5mfcGVo8g65INVSuJYpA/s1600/berries.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Berries on the wrought iron fence of the Chateau</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-3369275564061082562014-01-03T13:15:00.001+01:002014-01-03T13:15:39.801+01:00The Long and winding road<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGodsc2oTQsgeJ3kZMH-3Ot1OsufPcwz5LbdbtPgr1jRWDrYHFNzURSH0aHmAcXfsIBT3o8n7IWOK9Njcww4iTZfDNcs-AGphl_pPDreccdP8p4DRKgyz7tWBslcMvJBMoKX5VZmkWvQ/s1600/landscape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGodsc2oTQsgeJ3kZMH-3Ot1OsufPcwz5LbdbtPgr1jRWDrYHFNzURSH0aHmAcXfsIBT3o8n7IWOK9Njcww4iTZfDNcs-AGphl_pPDreccdP8p4DRKgyz7tWBslcMvJBMoKX5VZmkWvQ/s1600/landscape.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The countryside around Montmirail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I generally greet the new year with good cheer. I'm mostly an optimist, or at least I view the troubles of the world as not entirely implacable. The road leading on into 2014 is uncertain, yet the energy that is available at the start of a new year, with a collective acceptance that we are transitioning between an end and a new beginning, is invigorating. I like goals and resolutions. Let it all unfold. We'll do our best to keep up.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
Christmas is the one time of year that my whole family comes together. In over thirty years, there is only one holiday season which we didn't spend all together. We have our traditions, but we also evolve in our methods of celebrating. We seem much more interested in projects and activities than in actually giving gifts, though, of course, that occurs as well.<br />
<br />
With the addition of two little people into the mix, the focus definitely has shifted. Quinn is all on board, and Zinnie is old enough this year to begin to get the picture.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho73fhpiHTMRxQA4o_2O6Cbiefy2wL-qaOTU2V94lDobn07D9VAKq8hpKht0opuYIw1YR7AJFnXLYoLwS6c5bB8iBvnp7vIuscsV0hsQKvROLvz_Qm86pDeoe0UOp-aEjKXosipfunOA/s1600/quinnzinnie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho73fhpiHTMRxQA4o_2O6Cbiefy2wL-qaOTU2V94lDobn07D9VAKq8hpKht0opuYIw1YR7AJFnXLYoLwS6c5bB8iBvnp7vIuscsV0hsQKvROLvz_Qm86pDeoe0UOp-aEjKXosipfunOA/s1600/quinnzinnie.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinn will be 5 in January, Zinnie will be 2 in February</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
One thing Zinnie enjoys is eating, and Christmas affords many opportunities for that. It seems to me that we spend most of our time in the kitchen, either cooking, cleaning up or consuming delectable dishes that one or the other of us just <i>has</i> to share with the family. We seem to save up all our best recipes for this one holiday. This year one of our clients gave us a pheasant he had just bagged in the woods close to our house. The bird was a real beauty. We sang "Alouette, gentille alouette, alouette, je te plumerai" as we plucked him of his bright red and brown feathers.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LKNzDIWVVd8g-hr8gpYRLwvyV2S_ZWM4A-W5nY8iAjSp7gsxRZuADpYCic7TqxXTQvB9YOmpxo114vqGaHHaeXhTO3bwd-nkvrk_a0Ofm_62FLW5IGUgMb61qsWnY-ZuPcLSd-VApA/s1600/zinnid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LKNzDIWVVd8g-hr8gpYRLwvyV2S_ZWM4A-W5nY8iAjSp7gsxRZuADpYCic7TqxXTQvB9YOmpxo114vqGaHHaeXhTO3bwd-nkvrk_a0Ofm_62FLW5IGUgMb61qsWnY-ZuPcLSd-VApA/s1600/zinnid.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby bird?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Quinn put on some shows. He is becoming quite interested in clowning, acting and story telling. Hmmm, I wonder where that comes from?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4GNc1NZ1GjXSNA4gavgZGBx2hizLllqdCvNcDlRo5WhMk-w-RQhlmDpMwZoLazLY98K_DY30vh0UypsLnaoAksOfswl1bMMcuZBWzLiDZ3Ot9CzLLJL7kaWieeMr2c0gAXbWFcGODw/s1600/kiddos.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puppet theater / activity in the atelier</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtv2tOcJIXbK68c532Ne2dB1n4ERodjWxZUTBdV_phQ9caLQlSnsGDgRXmffNQT1I_Ovm07uSrXpC2Ik4O5i3rq1xWqRFdWbHylH7mY4AcZLRpORVmwPro9u6fhi-v5lADo0lG1TdFw/s1600/quinnjosshow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtv2tOcJIXbK68c532Ne2dB1n4ERodjWxZUTBdV_phQ9caLQlSnsGDgRXmffNQT1I_Ovm07uSrXpC2Ik4O5i3rq1xWqRFdWbHylH7mY4AcZLRpORVmwPro9u6fhi-v5lADo0lG1TdFw/s1600/quinnjosshow.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jos tells a story & Quinn provides the sound effects</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I introduced an activity this year that involved giving everyone something we had discovered during the previous year. From me it was a tool called a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POaXl7g4ie8" target="_blank">brush pen</a>, and I just adore the marks you can make with it. James gave us each a video called <i><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytq4VZ2Nyxg" target="_blank">Stories We Tell</a></i> (a very fascinating true family tale) and challenged us for next Christmas to discover some kind of previously unexplored history story to share with the family. Emily used her sewing machine to deck us all in her handmade creations.</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfOasXxnWPFnyx_z-eEsSkEhX0U_iV-OO5_VdXrPEgxutrIsc8d9bH_f0qWhsrkkRJoFiNJAxV8qWyroxDmewXedB1fTBO2hs3PDCYSnqxuStA96j7IrgXgkzHMpUZ8WzySaMDdtg8Q/s1600/kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfOasXxnWPFnyx_z-eEsSkEhX0U_iV-OO5_VdXrPEgxutrIsc8d9bH_f0qWhsrkkRJoFiNJAxV8qWyroxDmewXedB1fTBO2hs3PDCYSnqxuStA96j7IrgXgkzHMpUZ8WzySaMDdtg8Q/s1600/kids.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emily and James try out the brush pen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It was really nice to have James visiting. He is on his way to England in a few days to defend his thesis for a Ph.D. from Warwick University. Meanwhile, he and Quinn flew a few paper airplanes.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJjwlRs3RTk13HFWwf6qA7LU9enLIjPT_fIodHrS87RvdE7wK1_RpjdZeXkvitsNcpj8U_Bief2dI4pH_RFdZ_umJJrAeIxZkWcnAg4BCUDfWnY-qF2QpWKoA0Kq4qhRvsNPUHrqC4w/s1600/paperairplane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJjwlRs3RTk13HFWwf6qA7LU9enLIjPT_fIodHrS87RvdE7wK1_RpjdZeXkvitsNcpj8U_Bief2dI4pH_RFdZ_umJJrAeIxZkWcnAg4BCUDfWnY-qF2QpWKoA0Kq4qhRvsNPUHrqC4w/s1600/paperairplane.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinn flies his paper airplane</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The weather over the holidays went from balmy and bright to blustery and gray. We took advantage of one of the more pleasant days to take a walk in the forest of Vibraye. We had it all to ourselves on the afternoon of Christmas.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8dFAqZIp_cv8KHpF1XC4M7xB7N0p_AzoedtPh9r3zZdt3B6k5h9MnBPJ2bOx07HfRngcq4LgX_5BPE5JSFiA8T-PK54L9GoSgH1fnbPuWkZybSMSCK0JF6d9LnqhK872kmFGA9DKAQ/s1600/forestvibraye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8dFAqZIp_cv8KHpF1XC4M7xB7N0p_AzoedtPh9r3zZdt3B6k5h9MnBPJ2bOx07HfRngcq4LgX_5BPE5JSFiA8T-PK54L9GoSgH1fnbPuWkZybSMSCK0JF6d9LnqhK872kmFGA9DKAQ/s1600/forestvibraye.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forest of Vibraye</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1H8bT-JU9PZIg9Vv2pLxcI4xc2jYBJDZ2y6VrtqzauxHYFur8oXW5FREmixoB2unNqW3pW5U75_2_sDdiZIdQ-ekG3BN-OSG_TqOf1gLSIAvV6ce2wUxwwb-hPIup7RlLeONeNF268Q/s1600/trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1H8bT-JU9PZIg9Vv2pLxcI4xc2jYBJDZ2y6VrtqzauxHYFur8oXW5FREmixoB2unNqW3pW5U75_2_sDdiZIdQ-ekG3BN-OSG_TqOf1gLSIAvV6ce2wUxwwb-hPIup7RlLeONeNF268Q/s1600/trees.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We made a gingerbread house.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYy61mg8Tk7yF7KKhCWvA5_wb2zYDohCk2Oq71AkIrqfrfh2DqZkRPV2EvAZCgVIOjx24M76ktslK5RttWBfgbfg5qZD5yqHUOvvadWJmd30LSxz8qCT8tVw4frXH8wWVErn6q1uRyUg/s1600/gingerbread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYy61mg8Tk7yF7KKhCWvA5_wb2zYDohCk2Oq71AkIrqfrfh2DqZkRPV2EvAZCgVIOjx24M76ktslK5RttWBfgbfg5qZD5yqHUOvvadWJmd30LSxz8qCT8tVw4frXH8wWVErn6q1uRyUg/s1600/gingerbread.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The Maison Conti is quite cozy this time of year. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQqxgnEqcUk2s3V7cJfSK91ZnZa4MYfHb1htqeHqql3uUXyIBzcAsK7c6xk4i_wT7XKsoi5YmxJkGhTY-0SGnYjUQQZo2787o_DKfv9v_92jkf9i2fJPTWzSedoya7IzDlSdfHPrwQFA/s1600/house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQqxgnEqcUk2s3V7cJfSK91ZnZa4MYfHb1htqeHqql3uUXyIBzcAsK7c6xk4i_wT7XKsoi5YmxJkGhTY-0SGnYjUQQZo2787o_DKfv9v_92jkf9i2fJPTWzSedoya7IzDlSdfHPrwQFA/s1600/house.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maison Conti</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Emily, Jos and the kids left the day after Christmas to visit the other half of their family in Belgium. James stayed on. Before the new year, we took the opportunity to have a bit of an adventure not far from home, wandering some of the back roads and seeking out a few landmarks, many of which we had never seen before.</div>
<br />
In <a href="http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mondoubleau" target="_blank">Montdoubleau</a> is this ruin of a castle which we have often passed, but never stopped to explore. It was built in the 11th century. In the 19th century it began to tumble down when a brick making factory was erected nearby, undermining the hill on which it sits. This bit, which is leaning precipitously is the last standing fragment. I found it rather magical.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XTVktI47qCaMMmQN5C0kf5pN9fdkQktii2EIraM4cMeMOts7piaysKSs7kQXUxyz_1pMg9xsYCq4mkmUkoEARqOoPZnyLhiWJvqOzaJHWgt80n6ajf7HHnuqp_qzglSh6rMzf76eEw/s1600/montdoub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XTVktI47qCaMMmQN5C0kf5pN9fdkQktii2EIraM4cMeMOts7piaysKSs7kQXUxyz_1pMg9xsYCq4mkmUkoEARqOoPZnyLhiWJvqOzaJHWgt80n6ajf7HHnuqp_qzglSh6rMzf76eEw/s1600/montdoub.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chatêau of Montdoubleau</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Another spot we have wanted to visit was the church of Saint Pierre in the nearby and unremarkable town of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Souday" target="_blank">Souday</a>. Nestled between a filling station and a hairdresser, you find one of the oldest standing churches in all of France, or so we've been told. Parts of the structure go back to the 9th century. This was the period in history when <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlemagne" title="Charlemagne">Charlemagne</a> was alive and when the Vikings were still terrorizing England and mainland Europe.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1o38txkn9wDtyR_ZNo8BY2KhdJCuWZE11XEKJvCQK5Q1bojZoK6SAE5ZFFBHIf93sNYSJ3i4AmLEsYKjt4wnqbDcbHwB9vfQsQ21syYjW-7GdOLRzpj6Xl1gdMhrWbdLakVkjobCYFg/s1600/soudaychapel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1o38txkn9wDtyR_ZNo8BY2KhdJCuWZE11XEKJvCQK5Q1bojZoK6SAE5ZFFBHIf93sNYSJ3i4AmLEsYKjt4wnqbDcbHwB9vfQsQ21syYjW-7GdOLRzpj6Xl1gdMhrWbdLakVkjobCYFg/s1600/soudaychapel.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chapel of the church of Souday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The church, of course, has been expanded and rebuilt in the 12 centuries since its establishment, but we could easily identify some of the most ancient brick work.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwGld5btEHRz6ljivuHVbmG1pM_sy9xjUbFDOv3yrEOItGKh_w8m5rk9iJ7LSGOEqC7HxTDNI9ux7zAoDePUAzI-5Cab82ODslc0H87VqB04n65G1cJpaihXSQOpJlRANfrCiphx8o2g/s1600/ceilingsoudaychurch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwGld5btEHRz6ljivuHVbmG1pM_sy9xjUbFDOv3yrEOItGKh_w8m5rk9iJ7LSGOEqC7HxTDNI9ux7zAoDePUAzI-5Cab82ODslc0H87VqB04n65G1cJpaihXSQOpJlRANfrCiphx8o2g/s1600/ceilingsoudaychurch.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The painted ceiling in the chapel of the four major apostles of Jesus is quite charming</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
A large stone plaque which was carved centuries ago, and worn down by hundreds of years of foot traffic is on display in the chapel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgco56M1xEjK-JmYIc7WZIHGFu2NUJgJdG-GSfrityvEc5dh7vRyqd9byUcczevwvbNIvIUiNoX8-dFwFcgB6hfg36IGD0UVL8iTXRr7iogOYXZlREAT7MTvKMKKz5r1JbkBZnCMaiOgg/s1600/soudaystone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgco56M1xEjK-JmYIc7WZIHGFu2NUJgJdG-GSfrityvEc5dh7vRyqd9byUcczevwvbNIvIUiNoX8-dFwFcgB6hfg36IGD0UVL8iTXRr7iogOYXZlREAT7MTvKMKKz5r1JbkBZnCMaiOgg/s1600/soudaystone.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This little church has seen quite a lot of history. It was rebuilt in the 11th century, destroyed by the Huguenots in the 16th century and struck by lightening in the 19th century.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglrmOYP2uoE-El5ewBrb6tIrDYQ6SPDOnFebrnQINL0Z72TZ3pCgI3nbNb4Efy0diZJCP12t7-mlQlO2BLnR6g46SNJ6amIh6Vv70mDMJ_AJK0sUznVUwmy7uldxmfkiD3Q-XwnLDSqQ/s1600/soudaycrypt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglrmOYP2uoE-El5ewBrb6tIrDYQ6SPDOnFebrnQINL0Z72TZ3pCgI3nbNb4Efy0diZJCP12t7-mlQlO2BLnR6g46SNJ6amIh6Vv70mDMJ_AJK0sUznVUwmy7uldxmfkiD3Q-XwnLDSqQ/s1600/soudaycrypt.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After Souday, we took James to our favorite church in <a href="http://en.lavardin.net/" target="_blank">Lavardin</a>, which is considered one of the 156 prettiest villages in all of France. It calls itself "the most French of the French villages." That is a bold claim, but apparently this area is thought to be quintessential French, in accent, cuisine and landscape.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3xDGzh2Kjay7FeOSB8ram0frxvKheK2rFTr2gldWdNrnNXDNDgIk9VGrL062Ob2395X-_sPDvMMC67ohmGBe14oj4E-vl5qSwIPPnh5KUlOZJAKJCY5F4-AllXl1pENi1IbTMJZJFA/s1600/lavardin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3xDGzh2Kjay7FeOSB8ram0frxvKheK2rFTr2gldWdNrnNXDNDgIk9VGrL062Ob2395X-_sPDvMMC67ohmGBe14oj4E-vl5qSwIPPnh5KUlOZJAKJCY5F4-AllXl1pENi1IbTMJZJFA/s1600/lavardin.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lavardin residence</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Even in winter, everywhere your eyes alight in this little town, you have a beautiful view. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinT2rUGW-YEgiXvrzDXGlz76S2ZcIsZzAKj0e49Nz8I8ERcl99lsHXqBFmJ3dLGcf3w1nuDZqreP74csIBAOqIzbnCbvtGc0jwxAOvmkALwnwvyf4-hi1f_r0ZPxM1h34sOV2vf0fRCg/s1600/lavmarie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinT2rUGW-YEgiXvrzDXGlz76S2ZcIsZzAKj0e49Nz8I8ERcl99lsHXqBFmJ3dLGcf3w1nuDZqreP74csIBAOqIzbnCbvtGc0jwxAOvmkALwnwvyf4-hi1f_r0ZPxM1h34sOV2vf0fRCg/s1600/lavmarie.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lavardin city hall</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I have certainly put many photos of the church of Saint Genest up on this blog. We visit this lovely village every few months, yet I continue to take photos of it whenever I am there and it never ceases to charm.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdrwx1W9ReWZgapzlyg9mnt3HEVCZdB8ItWubHtclpnkGAXxW0G6gmy9M42RfZuZNuzEA69dmfF8JAld0QfHyXFwz1zL6r3Rccwq-4MQMJBHRyXIXBU6daLniSLGeLrTdkLAJn-k50A/s1600/churchlavardin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdrwx1W9ReWZgapzlyg9mnt3HEVCZdB8ItWubHtclpnkGAXxW0G6gmy9M42RfZuZNuzEA69dmfF8JAld0QfHyXFwz1zL6r3Rccwq-4MQMJBHRyXIXBU6daLniSLGeLrTdkLAJn-k50A/s1600/churchlavardin.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The frescos which were painted in the Middle Ages by local artisans, were covered over when they went out of fashion. They were only rediscovered in the late twentieth century when the walls were being cleaned. They are among the most lovely frescoes I have seen. The colors are surprisingly vibrant after all these hundreds of years.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjSdkc-koahINOj5aD9J9t-gr9JZb1KU1uCYNKVhf103E9q4yG4SWldaa8vGDRRiOZnwe04RCAjlJJdgAowC7-88b-2zj-yBBPtaQD552Z-k-LZfNhBezjfFq1JF75_18YswnGsOT9yg/s1600/opener.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjSdkc-koahINOj5aD9J9t-gr9JZb1KU1uCYNKVhf103E9q4yG4SWldaa8vGDRRiOZnwe04RCAjlJJdgAowC7-88b-2zj-yBBPtaQD552Z-k-LZfNhBezjfFq1JF75_18YswnGsOT9yg/s1600/opener.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
We were particularly interested in visiting a place we heard about last fall, a significant 3rd century Roman site. This small Roman town, which covers several acres of land, was discovered in the 1970s. It sits in the middle of farm land south of Le Mans. It includes an amphitheater,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVPB0vYgqh4SRIZfPUPZ3dQCrITcwQZlDvIOfA5kBX-y11fl_1T_hc1qfOp2l0heNpJLh7-LVXnnaOljGKBkL7AyE0dlR8TutIMSqF91knHbWGR7vtp-nuPD1r1Sl5eahm2NtFhz31Q/s1600/romanheater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVPB0vYgqh4SRIZfPUPZ3dQCrITcwQZlDvIOfA5kBX-y11fl_1T_hc1qfOp2l0heNpJLh7-LVXnnaOljGKBkL7AyE0dlR8TutIMSqF91knHbWGR7vtp-nuPD1r1Sl5eahm2NtFhz31Q/s1600/romanheater.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
baths with an aqueduct,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7c9PWjHr1IwxlFeyVNEYzsCTkX4_KWL3D26ebN-k5Y6ORvPIxd0_Nh5FtMUWPD3I9L6OaIq6FUoCC3ZKxEC0zN1Jzo0jy1qABGDwRGzvHEns4H8f30QJCdcSfSl3lgCgq-2-ve2TJA/s1600/romanbaths.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7c9PWjHr1IwxlFeyVNEYzsCTkX4_KWL3D26ebN-k5Y6ORvPIxd0_Nh5FtMUWPD3I9L6OaIq6FUoCC3ZKxEC0zN1Jzo0jy1qABGDwRGzvHEns4H8f30QJCdcSfSl3lgCgq-2-ve2TJA/s1600/romanbaths.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
and a temple site with a reflecting pool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGs40PgU06dlI6jYnjD7E9DpiNNHeQxO4cyG3L1Lf_s_yF4NtBZ3KzlNVUoCGaocX4wUtWz3U36o3uH_svG3nftwt9N9cDxk96rp7LhMpxXnyB7cAsue7IOh7jeHu5YhcDr8fafyTnCg/s1600/romanreflectingpool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGs40PgU06dlI6jYnjD7E9DpiNNHeQxO4cyG3L1Lf_s_yF4NtBZ3KzlNVUoCGaocX4wUtWz3U36o3uH_svG3nftwt9N9cDxk96rp7LhMpxXnyB7cAsue7IOh7jeHu5YhcDr8fafyTnCg/s1600/romanreflectingpool.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The day proved to be a fantastic voyage through the past, an appropriate activity, it seemed to me, as we zoom into the unknown future.<br />
<br />
May the year ahead bring you love and laughter! One thing I learned this week is that the earth is closest to the sun on January 3rd. It seems counter-intuitive, but there you have it. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBii28fGJGVAJOF8JPURV3sw4B1WEWd2lVgN-RJfmOzEpRjmNwRvMrvHSuc_NmR6N41XWSIBBNOPg9B6QSCi0qykfMM50rsxmrAC4PpuXEE3DQBgxbsA3LEt9ofuArJd2XjeMJtwl9mg/s1600/castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBii28fGJGVAJOF8JPURV3sw4B1WEWd2lVgN-RJfmOzEpRjmNwRvMrvHSuc_NmR6N41XWSIBBNOPg9B6QSCi0qykfMM50rsxmrAC4PpuXEE3DQBgxbsA3LEt9ofuArJd2XjeMJtwl9mg/s1600/castle.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Castle of Montmirail, with a sliver of a moon. "2014" is written in lights over the door to the city hall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-59451852191239239852013-12-21T16:38:00.000+01:002013-12-21T16:38:50.550+01:00'Tis the season to be jolly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4C_i5BQnMd_fRgViVHeNCwRhrEx1Ve_me4PRtxXwdUNjN-ghnsPlqy07ObHWyg_KvMcW7prVGSoNR4Hk8d3mtNYaIqk1quNgIPp0ou3EO52jcYnFqUE8uuEuGtY4rIGUTJb3OqCs7jQ/s1600/tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4C_i5BQnMd_fRgViVHeNCwRhrEx1Ve_me4PRtxXwdUNjN-ghnsPlqy07ObHWyg_KvMcW7prVGSoNR4Hk8d3mtNYaIqk1quNgIPp0ou3EO52jcYnFqUE8uuEuGtY4rIGUTJb3OqCs7jQ/s1600/tree.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm one of those people who adores Christmas. Even as I race around trying to meet all the extra demands – the gathering of appropriate gifts, decorating, cooking, cleaning, card writing – I am suffused with a feeling of well-being and happiness. I become an optimist. I try to remember all the good things that happened to me during the year and everyone who contributed to making my life feel richer.<br />
<br />
I enjoy making gifts for friends and family. It is the one time of year that is all set up for expressing our gratitude for all the many blessings of living on this planet, in this funny old world of ours. Why not ride the wave of joy and thanksgiving? In thinking how I could express my gratitude to you, my blog followers, I thought of a gift I could give you, which will hopefully inspire you to whimsy, playfulness, beauty and fun. My favorite YouTube video of the year:<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/QYmwFdZReA4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe> </div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Holidays to all!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbH4g44EUVQZmH4REKycly4pAfKyhAyUpZr0gJpSzymVm7lSqgTTtMt2UVx8Ie7ZCSaO2fnJJ2JGOOcXiC-ebXkNhV5tpOdU-YFzVl1bLbiZr5bmRcK5JbPrOiUWDafyE5Xkeu3zIGWg/s1600/smokingman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbH4g44EUVQZmH4REKycly4pAfKyhAyUpZr0gJpSzymVm7lSqgTTtMt2UVx8Ie7ZCSaO2fnJJ2JGOOcXiC-ebXkNhV5tpOdU-YFzVl1bLbiZr5bmRcK5JbPrOiUWDafyE5Xkeu3zIGWg/s1600/smokingman.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-45199974736608387382013-11-30T20:48:00.000+01:002013-11-30T20:48:10.248+01:00Costa del Sol<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAbo2h-3UcRbxrmKVpFJfnitqpuWC3kGNWEwp1WbibLbciAML1sOMK1vKGj0IHk8mOVfBXg_RBSnI3Wb6t6nC4bgUs4cVtY3yj3QyYdyQDRgIrMWhciDOLXX2KyQDI-rBTnB-ijx5xQ/s1600/churchsunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAbo2h-3UcRbxrmKVpFJfnitqpuWC3kGNWEwp1WbibLbciAML1sOMK1vKGj0IHk8mOVfBXg_RBSnI3Wb6t6nC4bgUs4cVtY3yj3QyYdyQDRgIrMWhciDOLXX2KyQDI-rBTnB-ijx5xQ/s1600/churchsunset.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Church of Mijas, with the sun setting over the Mediterranean in the distance<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We spent a wonderful week in southern Spain, visiting our friend Mariann. She lives in the adorable old town of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mijas" target="_blank">Mijas</a>, high up the rocky mountain above the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Costa_del_Sol" target="_blank">Costa del Sol</a>, between <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A1laga" target="_blank">Málaga</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marbella" target="_blank">Marbella</a>. We met Mariann when she came to Maison Conti to do some <a href="http://ateliermaisonconti.blogspot.fr/2010/01/printmaking-with-marriann-and-janine.html" target="_blank">etchin</a>g in our studio. She later came back and Rick taught her how to do <a href="http://ateliermaisonconti.blogspot.fr/2012/02/printmaking-fun-and-fellowship.html" target="_blank">photogravure</a>. It has now been four years since she invited us to come down and see her part of the world. In the interim she has bought two houses, completely refurbished them, and opened a <a href="http://www.artcanbefun.com/" target="_blank">print making school</a>, This fall she just finished organizing her little <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CasitaCarmela" target="_blank">Casita Carmella</a> as a guest house and asked us if we would like to be her first "guinea pig" guests.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGne-E7c9M19J1QNHhnbdzlSf0OVzlsf7kEsYL8n5QQFc5u6-cEDxzLecYI0CRGs6DY87_U8H-014talywmTLYepMrQEY2Rv5_ebsBe7KfHSrP074kBj636pV5zYFswtkKok3hnBqDg/s1600/mariann.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGne-E7c9M19J1QNHhnbdzlSf0OVzlsf7kEsYL8n5QQFc5u6-cEDxzLecYI0CRGs6DY87_U8H-014talywmTLYepMrQEY2Rv5_ebsBe7KfHSrP074kBj636pV5zYFswtkKok3hnBqDg/s1600/mariann.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mariann and Rick in the local restaurant on the evening we arrived in Mijas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The week that we were free to go coincided with the week Mariann was busy preparing for an exhibition at <a href="http://www.alfajar.es/" target="_blank">Alfajar</a> in Málaga. We were able to help her in various ways as she raced around her studio, printing, framing, pricing and cataloging.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrhH4VE6eHvMzNx-1dTTEeuFlaWMaFeycVHQ3_tKX-AJs6FWKQUp38cK4BG-a2o6hBKBFB6cErb9bbK5HLbpr9Ta_gH_FCuHDVKWy-hYeojwjVbXR1VfVTK7OGEbngfG_x-inqFhyphenhyphenrA/s1600/casarol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrhH4VE6eHvMzNx-1dTTEeuFlaWMaFeycVHQ3_tKX-AJs6FWKQUp38cK4BG-a2o6hBKBFB6cErb9bbK5HLbpr9Ta_gH_FCuHDVKWy-hYeojwjVbXR1VfVTK7OGEbngfG_x-inqFhyphenhyphenrA/s1600/casarol.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Casa Rol, Mariann's house and studio in Mijas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The weather was pleasant all week and the working environment pretty spectacular! The view from Mariann's top terrace is panoramic. Mijas is known as the white village. It is kept sparklingly clean. This is an extremely agreeable place to spend time, particularly in November, when back home people are bundled up in thick coats and fleece lined boots.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzeXCjRubndD5Qjk-klq1YiIkUixRh0-QKIIWBmZeA_9CFiLzmtEgK6S0NcgJZQ_AuP8BUclluLIpfZ55vj3WVKCTAWqfHvKT3uXXbODEBcVJFsbHJ3xMLi2NkqnAQqDlG9fVACa9ymA/s1600/viewmari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzeXCjRubndD5Qjk-klq1YiIkUixRh0-QKIIWBmZeA_9CFiLzmtEgK6S0NcgJZQ_AuP8BUclluLIpfZ55vj3WVKCTAWqfHvKT3uXXbODEBcVJFsbHJ3xMLi2NkqnAQqDlG9fVACa9ymA/s1600/viewmari.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Mariann's terrace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Mariann's studio is very beautifully and practically set up. I really enjoy watching other printmakers at their craft. I learn so much, as we all do things quite differently.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojdgRJBc-2oaOnH9cLif-ShxKlNDSKVvCwsHl0EHTA96cgu1YaJIZMEWI2Y6wWs1KRqtL4T5N0lJ5H_EvHmAltFdSGP-RE9HOpCU821EqswIiMG9k6eFe8OdUyMswVMAqVKvqdXHd4w/s1600/mariannstudio1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojdgRJBc-2oaOnH9cLif-ShxKlNDSKVvCwsHl0EHTA96cgu1YaJIZMEWI2Y6wWs1KRqtL4T5N0lJ5H_EvHmAltFdSGP-RE9HOpCU821EqswIiMG9k6eFe8OdUyMswVMAqVKvqdXHd4w/s1600/mariannstudio1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mariann's studio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Mariann has always impressed me with her focus and energy for her art. She has also created several beautiful spaces in her adopted home on the Costa del Sol (she is Danish). <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEBU3FUb8X7phWiZUuRhVB7GjQsd7N_szXklO2A8ef0UDnz_cmPQGUyCeo6ls01-f87rAZWItRon_zoCiDgUpUi1C9lNLYwFxjVx_9lwurTGyCo6hQLNnmFYGBfo7DjLacfPx6Oic9Q/s1600/duostudio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEBU3FUb8X7phWiZUuRhVB7GjQsd7N_szXklO2A8ef0UDnz_cmPQGUyCeo6ls01-f87rAZWItRon_zoCiDgUpUi1C9lNLYwFxjVx_9lwurTGyCo6hQLNnmFYGBfo7DjLacfPx6Oic9Q/s1600/duostudio.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mariann's studio and print room at Casa Rol<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Her latest project was the transformation of a little house named Casita Carmela a few minutes walk from her home. She has fixed this lovely little place up to be a vacation rental. This is where Rick and I stayed. After spending a week here, I can highly recommend it as a destination!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjESb9lVglJ-kFHe0TPsPiXyaHnRqvmLRAe5kGooVpZhP7fJ_YMWJFqOi3PON9OSfnqPNTta1npqSXbmT_lXJfu5-jLB0WVyOHLqoXNVxbyZdsft3pNQtinE369lkq66NV84c6eVBSE_g/s1600/casita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjESb9lVglJ-kFHe0TPsPiXyaHnRqvmLRAe5kGooVpZhP7fJ_YMWJFqOi3PON9OSfnqPNTta1npqSXbmT_lXJfu5-jLB0WVyOHLqoXNVxbyZdsft3pNQtinE369lkq66NV84c6eVBSE_g/s1600/casita.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior of Casita Carmela</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I must say that the highlight of every day was the sunrise. The terrace of the house looks out to the sea, and at this time of year the sun both rises and sets over the Mediterranean. I took photographs every day as the spectacles were different and glorious each morning.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEO4ibJMH4FfADx3pYPOXh8ZUOGryVIu3lUHRhSbHv9a1t0qAIx4PDYQ3KNHnXGDngYBvaJX_ksnUJjdSyH0xL3jkMcdYpHU4R7i4XsNcoctv37GV74PXHh4lx8paBztqPxJjO1eAuw/s1600/sunrise1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEO4ibJMH4FfADx3pYPOXh8ZUOGryVIu3lUHRhSbHv9a1t0qAIx4PDYQ3KNHnXGDngYBvaJX_ksnUJjdSyH0xL3jkMcdYpHU4R7i4XsNcoctv37GV74PXHh4lx8paBztqPxJjO1eAuw/s1600/sunrise1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunrise 1<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9IY7JwWSkjjReNiSxs9qf7Lw6Ygv1IrUEoFpRVh3sCMXNkclllSPc-SRsAKq9oTl3ZNRrPKxNFm7XNRkKgJ_lmMLDtkZ1oIQNbct4ViMfWgn4y7HMeWRZb3fbmXen9DkPppAlQ8QW2w/s1600/sunrise2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9IY7JwWSkjjReNiSxs9qf7Lw6Ygv1IrUEoFpRVh3sCMXNkclllSPc-SRsAKq9oTl3ZNRrPKxNFm7XNRkKgJ_lmMLDtkZ1oIQNbct4ViMfWgn4y7HMeWRZb3fbmXen9DkPppAlQ8QW2w/s1600/sunrise2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunrise 2<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYaQadPz-L2jge3yLjpeJBIJ93SFsPKRi4wJDndHQZNmsgqwHzFVHhC5SioArs9jyofvmLARIbId_li4HFvu912ZrgvL_K51aK3QnEP-o6_XmU3UsvVAauKM_HdOfQrSdBkBnmAugBaw/s1600/sunrise3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYaQadPz-L2jge3yLjpeJBIJ93SFsPKRi4wJDndHQZNmsgqwHzFVHhC5SioArs9jyofvmLARIbId_li4HFvu912ZrgvL_K51aK3QnEP-o6_XmU3UsvVAauKM_HdOfQrSdBkBnmAugBaw/s1600/sunrise3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunrise 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEich3HqfEAARzbEx-hFeZKhpdTbq7kOjBY1sgjkO3-OcINqaPu8CfgiH5_uRQJioVwYJGbvqyn2H0JBl75GYoD0uOJBRDqat8aXYOfhIzKvDmTVZEEcbqqAHwJgYsppF0ef-0K01OrCjA/s1600/sunrise4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunrise 4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You get the idea!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sunset was not too bad either. Although we could not see the sun dip below the horizon from our vantage point, we could see the wash of color painted on the cliffs. From Mijas one looks out to Gibraltar and Morocco, both of which are visible from many vista points. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZHD27pi891lP63K-SeZh8OtzxOvKrg3ksY-u7LFbSMkbzGsARok-kWQdwTqc243HGKLUQGF6_ypl-l8uEfnCGRiJlZsRM-3dWLX5fAkLnY0JMzLlYU7PprD3kMSk-03KPbrZUWNr0A/s1600/sunsetmijas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZHD27pi891lP63K-SeZh8OtzxOvKrg3ksY-u7LFbSMkbzGsARok-kWQdwTqc243HGKLUQGF6_ypl-l8uEfnCGRiJlZsRM-3dWLX5fAkLnY0JMzLlYU7PprD3kMSk-03KPbrZUWNr0A/s1600/sunsetmijas.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunset coloring the cliffs<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Costa del Sol is a very crowded place, as you probably know. There are acres of modern condos lining almost the entire coast. From the vantage point of Mijas, it is much more interesting than the close up ground level view.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGg715c2NorWU79KV4Opfgt9saD71oXLKYDfP_0e1ASgfhGM8M4TptSYQm-_q7Ymag4ty474yKZis6UC2CT-2gIPUcoQ4Bgs3zmigOy_MLRtEC6f4Cjk2thBu_JkhcPehva41vyrE7Q/s1600/sunsetmifas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGg715c2NorWU79KV4Opfgt9saD71oXLKYDfP_0e1ASgfhGM8M4TptSYQm-_q7Ymag4ty474yKZis6UC2CT-2gIPUcoQ4Bgs3zmigOy_MLRtEC6f4Cjk2thBu_JkhcPehva41vyrE7Q/s1600/sunsetmifas.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view to the Costa del Sol from Mijas<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It seemed a great privilege to begin each day bathed in light. At home temperatures were close to freezing.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVeeRv9sidCKRywInJQ9u5_KkobBpQouYss6tLLp0wqIVPhDHTkOCCzwQax30y-3sX3XQEXE6Kdbka8Dq79hF5hdQ_0j5wMXj044wD0OyCdaoWgdekcN49PBMN84iJUq45Y8KFfmPFw/s1600/morningsunrick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVeeRv9sidCKRywInJQ9u5_KkobBpQouYss6tLLp0wqIVPhDHTkOCCzwQax30y-3sX3XQEXE6Kdbka8Dq79hF5hdQ_0j5wMXj044wD0OyCdaoWgdekcN49PBMN84iJUq45Y8KFfmPFw/s1600/morningsunrick.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick basking in morning sun<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Mijas itself is a very charming and ancient town. I suppose that nowadays its main industry is tourism, but not more than a century ago it was a town which had been supplying very important products to international markets as far back as Roman times. Olive oil, rope and baskets, honey.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpftm9GP06839ljncb-JawwVjcmHfXL2Db3ExVMQIi6XlXLY656vZd1Ed8ErAQ1_3yxRNWIKwkHtU584IzVmXpfLPt2WI5m1bsvRt44BoTRy2A-1w6cftK7R7_ePRx8wgJOGtqKhzaMg/s1600/flowerpots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpftm9GP06839ljncb-JawwVjcmHfXL2Db3ExVMQIi6XlXLY656vZd1Ed8ErAQ1_3yxRNWIKwkHtU584IzVmXpfLPt2WI5m1bsvRt44BoTRy2A-1w6cftK7R7_ePRx8wgJOGtqKhzaMg/s1600/flowerpots.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mijas' museum of local history</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Like Montmirail, where <a href="http://www.maisonconti.com/" target="_blank">we live in France</a>, Mijas is without modern shopping malls or other such blights on the landscape. Unlike Montmirail, however, it is really a hopping place with rather a lot of restaurants to choose from, lots of little touristy shops and many places for visitors to stay. We were certainly not the only travelers visiting Mijas in mid-November.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VHqijIwm0jxOMdaIyrsrNXHaqjd3ud9TmPV4yv-iwfqu30q4dQo5MJIyPNOEyDzODFRGcKUNuD6N9jQtc5LHydf4FqiZyTE27abZ5izsPe_aVuAfmRhrJmINMd-ZIAWfytcARqgq_g/s1600/mijaschap2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VHqijIwm0jxOMdaIyrsrNXHaqjd3ud9TmPV4yv-iwfqu30q4dQo5MJIyPNOEyDzODFRGcKUNuD6N9jQtc5LHydf4FqiZyTE27abZ5izsPe_aVuAfmRhrJmINMd-ZIAWfytcARqgq_g/s1600/mijaschap2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mijas point of interest: ancient chapel<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mijas is very well maintained. There are a couple of parks which offer panoramic views.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQK1UajnfjiCkuX88j_YNZ7zVS4XjN5yNPwdL5acRbUoCdtNG4VKG0Z7dtvKcDRls-KJv_47vJ1KHTMrIZdrYwaUWswr2I6jnPlm0BgjG_22OSVFT4Cp9x3x7WB4qwFi4Vt8p82PT6Q/s1600/mijaschap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQK1UajnfjiCkuX88j_YNZ7zVS4XjN5yNPwdL5acRbUoCdtNG4VKG0Z7dtvKcDRls-KJv_47vJ1KHTMrIZdrYwaUWswr2I6jnPlm0BgjG_22OSVFT4Cp9x3x7WB4qwFi4Vt8p82PT6Q/s1600/mijaschap.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mijas park<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And the famous donkey taxis which were implemented in the 1970s when local workers discovered they could make more money hauling tourists than straw.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizh7hWVJC4ibNtrpRczrreQbScKEz_YbwSk5lAibVlND9Q19-dnudZyeJbLkDWBTQ5ZSB19TOT_9_baYkfBIMQJzKoxyS3gBBM60nRNibPaMDvJO6R98nbscG9l8gYkhZPc2M3V5l0EQ/s1600/donkeytaxi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizh7hWVJC4ibNtrpRczrreQbScKEz_YbwSk5lAibVlND9Q19-dnudZyeJbLkDWBTQ5ZSB19TOT_9_baYkfBIMQJzKoxyS3gBBM60nRNibPaMDvJO6R98nbscG9l8gYkhZPc2M3V5l0EQ/s1600/donkeytaxi.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Donkey Taxi</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
There were a couple of days when Mariann was not in need of our help in the studio, and we took the opportunity to visit a few places nearby. Our first adventure was to the very beautiful and historic town of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronda" target="_blank">Ronda</a>. The last and only other time we had been in Andalusia, we were with our friends Barbara and Craig. That was almost ten years ago. We remembered Ronda so fondly because of the very enjoyable time we had there with them. We wanted to repeat the experience.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivI3-YhpOP9V5xV_vgCwDD-iwJRNXSj6HXD_IC7EMPekHiDoP21g7z1IaKPQXq6d4MOn1TGmUOJhw95KNFCUZY2zF3Rb539prGURlir35As8Vq8qRA8AdCb50u6wA3fHXciTHjr0P9mg/s1600/bridgeronda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivI3-YhpOP9V5xV_vgCwDD-iwJRNXSj6HXD_IC7EMPekHiDoP21g7z1IaKPQXq6d4MOn1TGmUOJhw95KNFCUZY2zF3Rb539prGURlir35As8Vq8qRA8AdCb50u6wA3fHXciTHjr0P9mg/s1600/bridgeronda.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the amazing bridges of Ronda and a view from the bridge<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Ronda sits high above a picturesque valley. The palm trees and grand colonnaded buildings give it a glamorous and romantic air. I couldn't describe it better than Rainer Maria Rilke:<br />
<br />
<i>The spectacle of this city, sitting on the bulk of two rocks rent
asunder by a pickaxe and separated by the narrow, deep gorge of the
river, corresponds very well to the image of that city revealed in
dreams. The spectacle of this city is indescribable and around it lies a
spacious valley with cultivated plots of land, holly and olive groves.
And there in the distance, as if it had recovered all its strength, the
pure mountains rise, range after range, forming the most splendid
background.</i><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMGlGy1GNE5GKZ49KFNcUBOIW3mSppOHzdg6gdnomUagImXxeWSe9FXAJTUERoNkj-LXP4kEcQcvdp8QQqXnAkoO30k1xq-j_kZaF8K2o-nuDhUqEeFlehPfmQ5VdHlvI-31ky9DA-1A/s1600/rondabld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMGlGy1GNE5GKZ49KFNcUBOIW3mSppOHzdg6gdnomUagImXxeWSe9FXAJTUERoNkj-LXP4kEcQcvdp8QQqXnAkoO30k1xq-j_kZaF8K2o-nuDhUqEeFlehPfmQ5VdHlvI-31ky9DA-1A/s1600/rondabld.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel in Ronda<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Islamic influence on the architecture of Andalusia is one of my favorite things about this part of the world. During the middle ages, when northern Europe was deep into its dark ages, southern Spain was in the midst of a flowering of culture and religious tolerance not really experienced since. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nq6hh5yc9-ayem2RA8SFuCgMaCVualleqztB8i0iOAtoX2Ezt10Etpy8QpGGEznOEaqPKpn6iQv5it8VQPbspbltcrSjxEt7xAF_l8AQq19g24tNcMakeKbBpZRzM9NUaf46q1VR5Q/s1600/archesronda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nq6hh5yc9-ayem2RA8SFuCgMaCVualleqztB8i0iOAtoX2Ezt10Etpy8QpGGEznOEaqPKpn6iQv5it8VQPbspbltcrSjxEt7xAF_l8AQq19g24tNcMakeKbBpZRzM9NUaf46q1VR5Q/s1600/archesronda.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">museum in Ronda<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We had a typical Spanish lunch in a pretty restaurant in Ronda and spent the entire afternoon wandering through town.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1iJlx-j0N9nDwbkiBDH0y7uZo3b7UNtycshkl8I69vnD-TGtXLXfju2BOdo2ibfki4uC_5SLA6fjFlcuEpRmq-uZq7sb5a6WSmDQRQcsaTny4iplwajLMWgS4tcTlDKVUJL0Xpdb0w/s1600/restoronda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1iJlx-j0N9nDwbkiBDH0y7uZo3b7UNtycshkl8I69vnD-TGtXLXfju2BOdo2ibfki4uC_5SLA6fjFlcuEpRmq-uZq7sb5a6WSmDQRQcsaTny4iplwajLMWgS4tcTlDKVUJL0Xpdb0w/s1600/restoronda.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ronda restaurant</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
On another free day we went to Marbella, one of the most popular spots on the Costa del Sol. The historic old town is charming, but definitely geared towards tourists.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ7cio9sh16WQ7ENTNyPr_GWoyZL4h2sGcKog-o97CDExM_TbaS83BSaTWnA7t5rQJLKPSAIiYEs959qARCHZ8XTuq8cHVO9WPJ7Lzxzb9RbHVNCIyw-ptxzThx0B8QEexeqNabqpE9w/s1600/marb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ7cio9sh16WQ7ENTNyPr_GWoyZL4h2sGcKog-o97CDExM_TbaS83BSaTWnA7t5rQJLKPSAIiYEs959qARCHZ8XTuq8cHVO9WPJ7Lzxzb9RbHVNCIyw-ptxzThx0B8QEexeqNabqpE9w/s1600/marb2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">street in Marbella<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To my mind, the best thing about the town was the <a href="http://www.spanish-art.org/spanish-museums-museum-of-contemporary-spanish-printmaking-marbella.html" target="_blank">Museum of Contemporary Printmaking</a>. There you can see original prints by Picasso, Miró and Dalí, as well as many lesser known but equally wonderful Spanish artists.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYLJXZqNCGBuLAnapqoOwfj-QiIQOKxg8V7hDu6iqRgNulqYs9WyO3VoU0HxhjkTm7JFIvc-yNAGlbUDW-I1UR4BIB4rwhBXmDjdxzIZN4_v-j7iVvyzit-VhZHSnfGczj1PZKkM3icA/s1600/marb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYLJXZqNCGBuLAnapqoOwfj-QiIQOKxg8V7hDu6iqRgNulqYs9WyO3VoU0HxhjkTm7JFIvc-yNAGlbUDW-I1UR4BIB4rwhBXmDjdxzIZN4_v-j7iVvyzit-VhZHSnfGczj1PZKkM3icA/s1600/marb.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">streets of Marbella<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was much more impressed with Málaga. As usual, we had to get to the historic center of this large and sprawling city to find the gold. I was quite impressed with its architecture, historical sites, ambiance, restaurants and museum. I could have spent a lot more time there. Málaga is the birth place of Picasso and they have a museum dedicated to his work. It is marvelously informative, with a wonderful video, lots of work from all of Picasso's oeuvre, a great bookstore and even ancient ruins from Phoenician times in the basement of the building. A beautiful etching press that Picasso used was also on display.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKze8ONyM-77NesRrgt2QfGLtNYbVZosHgFBmJyPqB6Vnshd3TNeEuuQJo8XG_Igefie-dUkwt62-oghAkyN5Ts7NkoahDEyMTqe8vU37W7dtfjdrLErxqwJTRPVyBcbi6BemgY7JFpQ/s1600/cathmal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKze8ONyM-77NesRrgt2QfGLtNYbVZosHgFBmJyPqB6Vnshd3TNeEuuQJo8XG_Igefie-dUkwt62-oghAkyN5Ts7NkoahDEyMTqe8vU37W7dtfjdrLErxqwJTRPVyBcbi6BemgY7JFpQ/s1600/cathmal.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral in Málaga<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We enjoyed the grand plazas and beautiful buildings.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zaBULd-op0OAeEOrzrxjwNd5AHk5Z75Djwv8_ydGKYXencj2nDnR0Tb5JqT2j0mllBAs6GZg8P3JtrCWpBbhmlcZOM2c_uFt3q8rzTpy4r34YBZokXPWUchRjBN7XdsFAkC_JHCbNA/s1600/malaga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zaBULd-op0OAeEOrzrxjwNd5AHk5Z75Djwv8_ydGKYXencj2nDnR0Tb5JqT2j0mllBAs6GZg8P3JtrCWpBbhmlcZOM2c_uFt3q8rzTpy4r34YBZokXPWUchRjBN7XdsFAkC_JHCbNA/s1600/malaga.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pedestrian Plaza in Málaga<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We met up with Mariann and a few of her friends for a drink at an attractive café and afterwards migrated further down the street for some tapas.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaL0zf4QEGjwNn78gowVlufa9g4OpmMwBZK2FhtAnEHe8GkxZJR5p91kMJQXd9_jz6QOkpYSmqBc0XrV-fpmHSmRX9aQQk-9iqXJrS7-lzaFCt-V0smtmBLSCMC7iFZ9QufJEz8ttsA/s1600/malagabld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaL0zf4QEGjwNn78gowVlufa9g4OpmMwBZK2FhtAnEHe8GkxZJR5p91kMJQXd9_jz6QOkpYSmqBc0XrV-fpmHSmRX9aQQk-9iqXJrS7-lzaFCt-V0smtmBLSCMC7iFZ9QufJEz8ttsA/s1600/malagabld.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">El Jardin Restaurant<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We then helped celebrate the opening of Mariann's exhibition in a beautiful shop just across from the cathedral. What a great location.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0_jDAp3SQ_-KE8z6fpbp0wJCIAWNsRe4HJI8_VzJs6688AqEKmQfDGK3Ud4l9lEIs2Nn72TJAxUX2KAQuWc_3ylx6DrivnG2bXMP0KKVPqqqjvPRG4hRC_t9vllA5SyOui0pIbAdCg/s1600/exhibition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0_jDAp3SQ_-KE8z6fpbp0wJCIAWNsRe4HJI8_VzJs6688AqEKmQfDGK3Ud4l9lEIs2Nn72TJAxUX2KAQuWc_3ylx6DrivnG2bXMP0KKVPqqqjvPRG4hRC_t9vllA5SyOui0pIbAdCg/s1600/exhibition.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mariann greets visitors to the opening of her exhibition at Alfajar<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And then it was time to come home. Luckily we still had a little sun left of this side of Europe, and I have been enjoying some beautiful sunrises right from my own windows, but no question about it, southern Spain is a marvelous place to be, especially in November!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-22111722398200640332013-11-10T17:45:00.000+01:002013-11-10T17:45:11.516+01:00A Week in Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-jwbEM4TqiJMvCC5MOnB8EMlNJA3yrg1hsJzBkL5vHNV6CQXyyspIal0wOe4mXR92gQupid7UnTjtOYHIz-12wsfxzYRwAJDon4fZL6a5Hw4_DzbVyTxqMseUuqp0yylEHdMmjzBOA/s1600/trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-jwbEM4TqiJMvCC5MOnB8EMlNJA3yrg1hsJzBkL5vHNV6CQXyyspIal0wOe4mXR92gQupid7UnTjtOYHIz-12wsfxzYRwAJDon4fZL6a5Hw4_DzbVyTxqMseUuqp0yylEHdMmjzBOA/s1600/trees.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For me, this is the most poignant time of the year, leaves turning mellow colors, so lovely, so temporary, just before they fall. Our weather has alternated between sunny days, warm, achingly beautiful, to gray cold days, anticipating the coming season. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We took a wonderful walk one day in La Ferté-Bernard around the lake. The sun filtered through the yellow-green branches. Glowing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPR_34NQ1GAy53O2ID1WZ47NPZgHt-uYL9pz01X2ZeBwp6DPZcXOOFVDpI6VY05eTchoyVjbjsjM6zfo37ss5EDgbyjd_a1Jcr-FIr3Dw5GLI0GT-rkWAgecIJilg9mLiYAwMB5_I_w/s1600/walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPR_34NQ1GAy53O2ID1WZ47NPZgHt-uYL9pz01X2ZeBwp6DPZcXOOFVDpI6VY05eTchoyVjbjsjM6zfo37ss5EDgbyjd_a1Jcr-FIr3Dw5GLI0GT-rkWAgecIJilg9mLiYAwMB5_I_w/s1600/walk.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was the first time we had followed this path all the way around. At the mid point we came to a spot where the lake flows into the river.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xK9qo8Ms9qmTmzeqOloSbS1q_kxmq2GPGAkorCnNZxBIJRp4T8ajjaQUKww0RuC1hqcaEVUGqm88F22Q23seFd8PXJ7LrgqsCL_3rv2In0RWFVSgLo3ZA2KRnwXPSzV5nyjpnl-a_w/s1600/lake2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xK9qo8Ms9qmTmzeqOloSbS1q_kxmq2GPGAkorCnNZxBIJRp4T8ajjaQUKww0RuC1hqcaEVUGqm88F22Q23seFd8PXJ7LrgqsCL_3rv2In0RWFVSgLo3ZA2KRnwXPSzV5nyjpnl-a_w/s1600/lake2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The view of the castle out our back window is at its best this time of year. The grounds, which are only partially visible from our vantage, are kept in classic, formal shapes but the added color in fall adds charm, especially when the sun begins to set.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVMWPlA33v0Yl1iOOD_j2g2NcT8gc6XO01WaHz_uQIYSE52nu1K9OeyLJgFyc0-JOyLE9Z51-6LtBTgaiJlTjTTWlNMaRTmmnWdKW6raHJmgIlpWFjTEbpdksV9Oulyxx51MhV_wW5A/s1600/castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVMWPlA33v0Yl1iOOD_j2g2NcT8gc6XO01WaHz_uQIYSE52nu1K9OeyLJgFyc0-JOyLE9Z51-6LtBTgaiJlTjTTWlNMaRTmmnWdKW6raHJmgIlpWFjTEbpdksV9Oulyxx51MhV_wW5A/s1600/castle.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As always at this time of year, I begin to get the itch to redecorate, take on some house projects, make changes and improvements. Last year I painted out part of the wall fresco, which tames the little sitting room a lot. We reupholstered the chairs and couch as well. This year I have only rearranged pictures on the wall, changed light fixtures and added another couch. My bigger projects are yet to commence. Our clients have not completely stopped coming yet, so big messy painting projects will wait for winter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzXTvchqdVqCpmjFq0AXGqFveXMKYm2zqu_twUKOn7Lve6Bsp3lWWmrA43xB_nOpEGNRFrQ4JZpOV1jO5DpfTrvJQmMNd48tKJCYBx_24pJCGD38F1AHinktsrrHTQozdXQ1eutQcYQ/s1600/sittingroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzXTvchqdVqCpmjFq0AXGqFveXMKYm2zqu_twUKOn7Lve6Bsp3lWWmrA43xB_nOpEGNRFrQ4JZpOV1jO5DpfTrvJQmMNd48tKJCYBx_24pJCGD38F1AHinktsrrHTQozdXQ1eutQcYQ/s1600/sittingroom.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have, in fact, had some really wonderful clients during these quieter days. We count ourselves very lucky to have met so many interesting people through our bed and breakfast. We so often are regaled with interesting stories in several languages. Some of the people we meet become our friends. </div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjE4i7Xh1YgR-sM4pj3LDth5Ky6tSraZ6jYZfWERJxDnd9k9hL-gq1KDUgLfthnRUkLOJ3DC0r7iNEntd0RJolb6ZowBV8htwP5vSMf8KBCzaVYMTrEHRGH0dKCBbPYKyuhIXwN6m5Vg/s1600/stairwell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjE4i7Xh1YgR-sM4pj3LDth5Ky6tSraZ6jYZfWERJxDnd9k9hL-gq1KDUgLfthnRUkLOJ3DC0r7iNEntd0RJolb6ZowBV8htwP5vSMf8KBCzaVYMTrEHRGH0dKCBbPYKyuhIXwN6m5Vg/s1600/stairwell.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
We had the opportunity to go to Le Mans one day, to do a few errands, and catch a movie.<br />
<br />
I took this photo of the back of Le Mans cathedral from a moving car. I used one of my new Photoshop actions to turn it into a post card from days long past. The building itself, of course really hasn't changed in hundreds of years.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihn-54D7dRspAs3We9Gbh5BdWTwvh3ht1Xkgb6Jdk1_o9PlKDIDOKJi2jOHvl1LmD2Vs3t1xPPi1D_JN9U9xIZeQLsfmYV4AFhmkfFa_7C81pKQUg2TY1GhJvQ7DZfLZDhhzA5uIGsnA/s1600/lemans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihn-54D7dRspAs3We9Gbh5BdWTwvh3ht1Xkgb6Jdk1_o9PlKDIDOKJi2jOHvl1LmD2Vs3t1xPPi1D_JN9U9xIZeQLsfmYV4AFhmkfFa_7C81pKQUg2TY1GhJvQ7DZfLZDhhzA5uIGsnA/s1600/lemans.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My favorite new Photoshop action package is called <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/photography/2010/03/actions-update-2/" target="_blank">Pioneer Girl</a>. It offers several filters that, especially when experimented with, and used together, create effects that seem rather magical.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XJlmCEd_oM6cxAtnwKDdvC2-8f4BoKnpqjXEr2zGlsGa0Zcnu546e5NqlOpVwH9GE6vojfhC8HERDDCE8KfQmTHjTOTQGi2c3r2zlaU4MMC-QT1dJMssl2r1RfBJN-7_GSwBYZnoFg/s1600/walls2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XJlmCEd_oM6cxAtnwKDdvC2-8f4BoKnpqjXEr2zGlsGa0Zcnu546e5NqlOpVwH9GE6vojfhC8HERDDCE8KfQmTHjTOTQGi2c3r2zlaU4MMC-QT1dJMssl2r1RfBJN-7_GSwBYZnoFg/s1600/walls2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have also had more time for local friends. We have shared dinners with our closest neighbors, Anne and Christine twice in the last week, and had coffee with Renata.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NHiH9tQW_DSMAQOozxjgyDUgdUFcUyGgiZU_-wTfINY0va4dc48UpNehs4tm2B-9ssAwlUb1wgbRzqyMO_VyDNB8V37Lds5rTWCwDCJedOh4NLUVapWxD2Chytj0ZwlPsJz84nOJrw/s1600/renata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NHiH9tQW_DSMAQOozxjgyDUgdUFcUyGgiZU_-wTfINY0va4dc48UpNehs4tm2B-9ssAwlUb1wgbRzqyMO_VyDNB8V37Lds5rTWCwDCJedOh4NLUVapWxD2Chytj0ZwlPsJz84nOJrw/s1600/renata.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
There is much more time in the studio as well. I am preparing my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/atelierconti" target="_blank">Etsy</a> shop for the Christmas holiday by organizing my work and being sure the store is well-stocked.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhNvZLfd255EPPqq4Ul743tOmGl2eM0wMiLP7I2kMed86YL8mokbdvwrHUQseiAFTCTCEXFhJ2XKue3TqjpsbOYQZ6EqodtBzF3uPzOB0RIwvtdu_6MyaFZWPs6aWdernjf-Wy9rN2g/s1600/printsgalore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhNvZLfd255EPPqq4Ul743tOmGl2eM0wMiLP7I2kMed86YL8mokbdvwrHUQseiAFTCTCEXFhJ2XKue3TqjpsbOYQZ6EqodtBzF3uPzOB0RIwvtdu_6MyaFZWPs6aWdernjf-Wy9rN2g/s1600/printsgalore.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
And I have been following the inspiration I took from <a href="http://ateliermaisonconti.blogspot.fr/2013/10/memories-dreams-and-maps-at-maison.html" target="_blank">Gail's class</a> to create some cosmic map-like imagery. These have been a great deal of fun to create. This one is called <i>Worlds Within Worlds</i>, and is available on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/atelierconti" target="_blank">Etsy</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKbQZTrBQNHBLeDp2qlYBvUHpZgA0GoCOFIpGX3RTH7wp_q4Qb0W3j6XjFP4VcSUc0D6h8zH2uvsbyww9mM_rtcmHpZGSR8S4tX5BAe-Xwkd9q5bdRWTP6lljK8BguGhuXf58kYcspw/s1600/print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKbQZTrBQNHBLeDp2qlYBvUHpZgA0GoCOFIpGX3RTH7wp_q4Qb0W3j6XjFP4VcSUc0D6h8zH2uvsbyww9mM_rtcmHpZGSR8S4tX5BAe-Xwkd9q5bdRWTP6lljK8BguGhuXf58kYcspw/s1600/print.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Next week we leave for Paris for a few days to help with the grandchildren. Emily is off to Russia with the <a href="http://www.bouffesdunord.com/en/shows-on-tour" target="_blank">Peter Brook touring production of <i>The Magic Flute</i></a>. She is assistant director. She has seen a lot of the world this fall! Then we are off to Andalusia ourselves for a week with my friend <a href="http://ateliermaisonconti.blogspot.fr/2010/01/printmaking-with-marriann-and-janine.html" target="_blank">Mariann</a>. (One of those wonderful former clients who crossed the line!) Come back for that report the last week of the month!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_gdKR3DI6Q6X0fiEkCt2UNDeazDV5a5oDTprUJizKcOmZUH2t0tTGbN3o_Al1Ov54kCn-i_Kc1wc2tvsopo-0YrPQRTCjRvs5e2er3Rc8n4G-FhRC7ajayKlx4052QtkdZEy0EcwV7g/s1600/sunset2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_gdKR3DI6Q6X0fiEkCt2UNDeazDV5a5oDTprUJizKcOmZUH2t0tTGbN3o_Al1Ov54kCn-i_Kc1wc2tvsopo-0YrPQRTCjRvs5e2er3Rc8n4G-FhRC7ajayKlx4052QtkdZEy0EcwV7g/s1600/sunset2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-16291342027116239702013-10-28T16:03:00.001+01:002013-10-28T16:03:55.081+01:00Autumn adventures in and out of Paris<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTSx4_sqbKEbD0sbpbabORs7uPWGP27uo7lgk1cSSb9PSoU4MJ1D40n_CmEuasTkZO9WJBzZDPCsxK9GJlG32pvOYiljhmWGDvuclqNeOuXfmXS1QLc0ABA_fryXOpcrPCJHCJ4JeLQ/s1600/notredame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTSx4_sqbKEbD0sbpbabORs7uPWGP27uo7lgk1cSSb9PSoU4MJ1D40n_CmEuasTkZO9WJBzZDPCsxK9GJlG32pvOYiljhmWGDvuclqNeOuXfmXS1QLc0ABA_fryXOpcrPCJHCJ4JeLQ/s1600/notredame.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Our high season is over, leaving us time for more personal endeavors and pleasures. Last week we invited Quinn to stay with us. It was his first time being here without his parents. Emily is traveling around Europe with Peter Brook's <a href="http://www.bouffesdunord.com/en/shows-on-tour" target="_blank"><i>Magic Flute</i></a> as assistant director, and Jos is working in Paris. Quinn has two weeks vacation from school. He spent the first one with us.<br />
<br />
We began the week with a visit to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disneyland_Paris" target="_blank">Disneyland Paris</a>, something we were all very excited to experience. Euro Disney, as it is also called, was opened in 1992. It was not at all an instant success, but over the years it has become much more popular.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPv6dwWfSUc1M3s-cgFSnYZnKB4y52OBrkhIkumidTc13lZKvpO9yGwPWOLWkitUEwaGva8dejUIFj1N8CaVOBihjmz6lIHtLwbWe3l4yoAPI6sHzvrxXbuzy88HkqZ02wir6WWYAxw/s1600/disney1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPv6dwWfSUc1M3s-cgFSnYZnKB4y52OBrkhIkumidTc13lZKvpO9yGwPWOLWkitUEwaGva8dejUIFj1N8CaVOBihjmz6lIHtLwbWe3l4yoAPI6sHzvrxXbuzy88HkqZ02wir6WWYAxw/s1600/disney1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The last time I was at Disneyland, in Southern California, my own children were rather small. I was anxious to see how the European version compared. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHzbyF9psa-sHlb24Vl0bBC4MfUZzwels-7bXNmRoMAHyUUKCTBSk98WWdAt2WlR4gRCBTv6bonmrhZvT7ejxFiRGpVEid9D35M6ncuZ90sz-YEX5a0XuABOZlrtpME4p0am4x7mmDw/s1600/disney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHzbyF9psa-sHlb24Vl0bBC4MfUZzwels-7bXNmRoMAHyUUKCTBSk98WWdAt2WlR4gRCBTv6bonmrhZvT7ejxFiRGpVEid9D35M6ncuZ90sz-YEX5a0XuABOZlrtpME4p0am4x7mmDw/s1600/disney.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Unfortunately the day itself was rather gray with intermittent downpours, some quite dramatic. The park is a fairly accurate copy of the original, I think, and the crowds were almost as big as they are in the States. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFbaYp8J_H0h-DGn2Jb1lbl5_VKvj2gsW8jYs3Yj6f0ZxDH81QXm2lGuNMbY8aPtxgO8vPfiePGBY7to5a1vSDVGKPCVtLhhk2i1mEtDb9fY76PciVeESepqbDxc1WcQr20wxI1JkfQ/s1600/treehouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFbaYp8J_H0h-DGn2Jb1lbl5_VKvj2gsW8jYs3Yj6f0ZxDH81QXm2lGuNMbY8aPtxgO8vPfiePGBY7to5a1vSDVGKPCVtLhhk2i1mEtDb9fY76PciVeESepqbDxc1WcQr20wxI1JkfQ/s1600/treehouse.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some of the lines were ridiculously long. We were willing to wait fifteen minutes to get onto the merry-go-round, but the line for the Dumbo ride was almost an hour, and although it seemed desirable to experience this classic, in the end we let it go, after waiting at least twenty minutes. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaZ5yRZWVTrdvnEWoWpJ09VoLSU35Z24LhOBkUl5qD28wLirGD7LJX0Zi11qpWMj3upA0bde5CGSYClYM_Mp07VLrZAm2bd0tZytRSlWQtSQwQ5YpZg6TRncLXTQ7mxvMh1hYPZaBfw/s1600/disneyride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaZ5yRZWVTrdvnEWoWpJ09VoLSU35Z24LhOBkUl5qD28wLirGD7LJX0Zi11qpWMj3upA0bde5CGSYClYM_Mp07VLrZAm2bd0tZytRSlWQtSQwQ5YpZg6TRncLXTQ7mxvMh1hYPZaBfw/s1600/disneyride.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After an eventful day at the park, where we all got quite worn out, we drove with Quinn back to Maison Conti. Here fall is definitely in the air. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSEsD7xQYrtVzYhLh4Ick3kY5N9nQvLT3eRLjYuf8aqlIow7cdaqaG3u9f24o9a0aIbD1wQ_MGVM1JoawVB4PUZwZlGpjpyARmRlZ4OqI1cl41pSDo0JzLyLZi7a55gJpzf9rUp5-XxQ/s1600/frontdoor+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSEsD7xQYrtVzYhLh4Ick3kY5N9nQvLT3eRLjYuf8aqlIow7cdaqaG3u9f24o9a0aIbD1wQ_MGVM1JoawVB4PUZwZlGpjpyARmRlZ4OqI1cl41pSDo0JzLyLZi7a55gJpzf9rUp5-XxQ/s1600/frontdoor+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Our week was filled with activities, which ranged from the artistic to the mechanical, both in and out of doors.<br />
<br />
Quinn created a <a href="http://cassiestephens.blogspot.fr/2012/02/leafy-spring-prints.html?m=1" target="_blank">gelatin leaf print</a>. It's such a great project for kids of all ages. I made quite a few myself to use as wrapping paper or cards or who knows what.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyn4i03Dr7pkGRPLhpUjFs_Xl4-bSUV7MnxQ26nDZRgG2XclTbhF4rsoOxOBNPqTwDSSfJ1ZdoEjMX__LjRVwHkl7POiGUmztBi9FFcT1sQ_oPLjniPXB-Y98eHVg62KxFtjIl5K1rHw/s1600/quinnprint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyn4i03Dr7pkGRPLhpUjFs_Xl4-bSUV7MnxQ26nDZRgG2XclTbhF4rsoOxOBNPqTwDSSfJ1ZdoEjMX__LjRVwHkl7POiGUmztBi9FFcT1sQ_oPLjniPXB-Y98eHVg62KxFtjIl5K1rHw/s1600/quinnprint.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
There was scarcely a minute that wasn't filled with some kind of fun. Quinn is at an age where almost anything is interesting to him and he is skilled in many ways.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGbct1uZrUxrw9MBsxhc17TTKa1NErt1YsGhOy7UaFXPuiIzLVTKxZRw4Lse5mGw-MinuRIhSsxifXgjk1xK1Mx-b7ReaYUQegYAJr-RSEInl79XtKQpRSbuhwdczMiD4RFd54p8uuA/s1600/quinnprojts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNGbct1uZrUxrw9MBsxhc17TTKa1NErt1YsGhOy7UaFXPuiIzLVTKxZRw4Lse5mGw-MinuRIhSsxifXgjk1xK1Mx-b7ReaYUQegYAJr-RSEInl79XtKQpRSbuhwdczMiD4RFd54p8uuA/s1600/quinnprojts.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Bobo led the more technical projects, which included making a corn cob sea plane and a periscope.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrmF8lTZ6llytLvmK-1YknVAGHgQfGvyXdklPRij2BQN_NeWxVszw8LpSddMIzYhnDiiWJT5aVMCCsNYK9GNCpIbewLUtiImfD5xsYpqSiTu9HD9P0qHQQQrImltHx33B0pqbr5zBvw/s1600/projects.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We found a corn field and borrowed a few ears of dried corn for our projects.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3qgRNjAuRkFdc_k6UfgXc-Qu4qoswpEMNfKjYllS5OOIi636V-8dsSqs8KMTIiZteKMN8l3jkfetF-X_dkd1xDBBkuQtW1t601WK0RVo-nmPJEOSsUCd8Ro2f_nP-5nvVdnlJ97kaw/s1600/atelierquinn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3qgRNjAuRkFdc_k6UfgXc-Qu4qoswpEMNfKjYllS5OOIi636V-8dsSqs8KMTIiZteKMN8l3jkfetF-X_dkd1xDBBkuQtW1t601WK0RVo-nmPJEOSsUCd8Ro2f_nP-5nvVdnlJ97kaw/s1600/atelierquinn.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also took a nice bike ride together in the nearby forest of Vibraye, where it is wild mushroom hunting season. The trees were in lovely golden colors and the paths were filled with people carrying baskets. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgJreCmE7ychAskKaxJW7Tg9Sp539s-2qNX3bZK90SM0v6lFEIwPal6iYUcGpM_UTPJpa8i_Q26WBHr0jnGgvtH499aXcTnE3oRPLgSmDvFLTr6pzlQZPxYttDFpZuA0_IfdW5WNJcQ/s1600/forestvibraye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgJreCmE7ychAskKaxJW7Tg9Sp539s-2qNX3bZK90SM0v6lFEIwPal6iYUcGpM_UTPJpa8i_Q26WBHr0jnGgvtH499aXcTnE3oRPLgSmDvFLTr6pzlQZPxYttDFpZuA0_IfdW5WNJcQ/s1600/forestvibraye.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Quinn started out at age three with a wooden balance bike, but now rides a pedal bike without training wheels. He's coordinated and fast! I could hardly keep up with him.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xcHFGAxGDQFbslfEGeV4rExwWlSwHhj9KnC4bv_V_hJQwnxUzEVgH5E71D74TLmMTSdvRphhJn1Jsz2JCFI4kV9Qvg-mbcks5sbxGEfoSDmfCwV14A7u_0Wtjw96Vr8N-I76Y1nF5A/s1600/ride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xcHFGAxGDQFbslfEGeV4rExwWlSwHhj9KnC4bv_V_hJQwnxUzEVgH5E71D74TLmMTSdvRphhJn1Jsz2JCFI4kV9Qvg-mbcks5sbxGEfoSDmfCwV14A7u_0Wtjw96Vr8N-I76Y1nF5A/s1600/ride.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
His other favorite outdoor activity when visiting us is horseback riding. We spent two afternoons at the nearby stable, where he learned how to stand up on the horse and turn all the way around in the saddle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVASv5WeOxhStIOFKTPQylMpwx1AIna56QRVM3pC7Z0swnEQMRIu9MBPST0POZt84sWCpo_TMXmP9BOSdQtq7hCNIyKiARp6wse0w1COsgugwdJBrp9A_qi20zSvY8Ep-DTqD4OYHPw/s1600/litlerider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVASv5WeOxhStIOFKTPQylMpwx1AIna56QRVM3pC7Z0swnEQMRIu9MBPST0POZt84sWCpo_TMXmP9BOSdQtq7hCNIyKiARp6wse0w1COsgugwdJBrp9A_qi20zSvY8Ep-DTqD4OYHPw/s1600/litlerider.jpg" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also spent an afternoon at the lake in La Ferté-Bernard , where fall is also in its glory.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSvHfX468dNiuw4fAGrgxbpcT2TivV7uZ2eepN5RK18mwOC47MIcL_yPukcFeJ6Anrm6uqrZJYeW8UoAias8oxgF2PtOGoQBQ1grbQcJSnz3Kg7N12968T8rPUawwU6_H64dP1pYbRg/s1600/lafertetrees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSvHfX468dNiuw4fAGrgxbpcT2TivV7uZ2eepN5RK18mwOC47MIcL_yPukcFeJ6Anrm6uqrZJYeW8UoAias8oxgF2PtOGoQBQ1grbQcJSnz3Kg7N12968T8rPUawwU6_H64dP1pYbRg/s1600/lafertetrees.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Quinn very much wanted to play in the sand at the shore of the lake and build a sand castle. We had a positively perfect day for this, with the sun shining and the temperature very mild.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrg04R_6EyLz73TUMOBGCAMtDptcaCmFLX4lyh3yd17Q98PjSy40uk9v6iMfEV580coJF2MFDxWs2lsHG_kt9yIjFrJ3zLralReaJBSj06gbJ7jmKZGZ8_-Mjk95vXdYEjkWYGZyyyyQ/s1600/lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrg04R_6EyLz73TUMOBGCAMtDptcaCmFLX4lyh3yd17Q98PjSy40uk9v6iMfEV580coJF2MFDxWs2lsHG_kt9yIjFrJ3zLralReaJBSj06gbJ7jmKZGZ8_-Mjk95vXdYEjkWYGZyyyyQ/s1600/lake.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I mostly sat on the sand and watched while the boys spent several hours creating their sand castle complex.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHmlvL9K3Bb0MHcl_xzD73ltUOiDWGBlMoULHwAPzLpcjvsnRcAxZNPcDmLFP5RHL_QnZj4e7LBL_bs6PngoBUd6QT-u7YuA-GgXRZVPX8ZOHrW259oY3ux91bvZE8Biw8-1MN3VZ2Qg/s1600/atthesand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHmlvL9K3Bb0MHcl_xzD73ltUOiDWGBlMoULHwAPzLpcjvsnRcAxZNPcDmLFP5RHL_QnZj4e7LBL_bs6PngoBUd6QT-u7YuA-GgXRZVPX8ZOHrW259oY3ux91bvZE8Biw8-1MN3VZ2Qg/s1600/atthesand.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It began, of course, with the dam works and the moat building.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAushFdm06TE0V7DVFABhLVo6u-2hKrS9v_8AOgQPCGM8oPBrRsvBaYDKgKwlZK3BtUHBBM_Bmrk-DnHIyxkpJIPH0e_QMixb6rWp696mGRsRqf2bpXlLje8-PYr4B0gDMswExoUeEng/s1600/building2.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
Rick had brought all the appropriate buckets, shovels and rakes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuvFDFP7jVwTkJ1PptPc7Of16v3MRLVoTWmSm0Ouid0RrydSjOBn8NOeeM6nNtomItEE66ZRX5zc5vBJO1QhFD4HXXGtDnSGQb_ku5ZYY-MCw2aUb4RW96pfv_kDuFU3Nsnhd5Qu7RQ/s1600/building.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuvFDFP7jVwTkJ1PptPc7Of16v3MRLVoTWmSm0Ouid0RrydSjOBn8NOeeM6nNtomItEE66ZRX5zc5vBJO1QhFD4HXXGtDnSGQb_ku5ZYY-MCw2aUb4RW96pfv_kDuFU3Nsnhd5Qu7RQ/s1600/building.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was able to participate by gathering sticks, leaves and stones. Quinn was quite pleased with these materials, which served well for bridges and cannons.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2yAJytpmfGu4PbtK2H1jMiTWE1xqKIVLALcNdZ3D6Oo6JBMx8UhLfrjguEfIvD_POmj49iuJW0nI40qMpcHQklIzzRfa8s65E26fskzUy0F-yeETuKAG21jbqbm_xSbYEz3kvxjKfA/s1600/bridge.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
Trees were planted, a garden was created, there was a grocery store and prison, along with several castles in the large compound. A pair of ducks came by and took a great deal of interest in the proceedings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8Kg3vV0rUnMKkH14wrx3JSX9jEDnWBoKYL_dYGmFQk7PGqgdaqDf1x5yCZlHlv77RUFJVNl4hgvohoYasbxS7_yxVn9fTaYb1O9qU99CuJA20j8jH3RO7eNaxpp8kFEP7agdraqCbw/s1600/sandcastle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8Kg3vV0rUnMKkH14wrx3JSX9jEDnWBoKYL_dYGmFQk7PGqgdaqDf1x5yCZlHlv77RUFJVNl4hgvohoYasbxS7_yxVn9fTaYb1O9qU99CuJA20j8jH3RO7eNaxpp8kFEP7agdraqCbw/s1600/sandcastle.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we brought Quinn home at the weekend, we took the opportunity to ride into the center of Paris and do a few errands. We spent a very pleasant autumnal day in town.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrd9cEMTfA4TnDqmNHNkPLFRg_I2WODeLZVn8tvP-bEbP0wvpcrHhTWmhDJBIAykbXAEz97ODqY93Ia_yo4zEhRATjH91H1E24lf53fo2xBKzBYwFy33-ncWkyqhs3XnaLzSe4FkXupA/s1600/latin+copy.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
Our errands took us from Place Saint Michel through the Latin Quarter, down the left bank, over to the Île de la Cité, onto the Île Saint Louis, and back up the right bank for lunch. The garden on the side of Notre Dame was full of people strolling and playing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnOJbCM5fkcRmeSboQCB2nTjm-lPKtqOakJJq1TUJnM72upyCzhPGp0QZL_KjMsLyF3wA6aXyBFErq4cd68fEndSpRUWmvJ_ZAxz0PIdQ9SV93kf-Y1gHzATnY6y29emlm9Xi4IacfsA/s1600/flowers+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnOJbCM5fkcRmeSboQCB2nTjm-lPKtqOakJJq1TUJnM72upyCzhPGp0QZL_KjMsLyF3wA6aXyBFErq4cd68fEndSpRUWmvJ_ZAxz0PIdQ9SV93kf-Y1gHzATnY6y29emlm9Xi4IacfsA/s1600/flowers+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
The sidewalk cafés were all full of people enjoying the day, which was fine and bright.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHBC5z7Dle8z8ft8QoPB0JPTRRcOJ5ieCVBDUtYEgLoFJGQ6DmS0hV2sMi6t_rH8SsS21Z4bnX_J2MOcDkyY38GhSXHknm-pZp0Q4El0ihHPAPSc4fcfFADhuIHFZMbou4uAnpi5U69Q/s1600/pariscafe+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHBC5z7Dle8z8ft8QoPB0JPTRRcOJ5ieCVBDUtYEgLoFJGQ6DmS0hV2sMi6t_rH8SsS21Z4bnX_J2MOcDkyY38GhSXHknm-pZp0Q4El0ihHPAPSc4fcfFADhuIHFZMbou4uAnpi5U69Q/s1600/pariscafe+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Paris is particularly lovely in the fall.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivH1srRcjwv2IMuiig1G6_4JGIfLXuUU2S93DVBeC-BerIofGSkg-L5mV2efxy7r497Im8eC_ItOgZbcok0YOTHJ2J_PCXLVeTismaNFSezciiNys6RWQsmh8AxSNEx_3dR9xJwuj6Vw/s1600/cafeparis.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<br />
We passed a little garden near the Hôtel de Sens on the right bank which we had never noticed before. So charming and well maintained! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwDtber0QB1sccPknarN2etc105033dgWiIh6XY9Vht3_yyyqw0msWc07naNR0qo3BRFXt9_Sm8iUtHDNM1HJv_8p82nSAvX05pjx2HU4rFSpwFzcQ5zeeMu5V9osCt7RtUKUahMpSg/s1600/parisgarden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwDtber0QB1sccPknarN2etc105033dgWiIh6XY9Vht3_yyyqw0msWc07naNR0qo3BRFXt9_Sm8iUtHDNM1HJv_8p82nSAvX05pjx2HU4rFSpwFzcQ5zeeMu5V9osCt7RtUKUahMpSg/s1600/parisgarden.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
We ended at one of our favorite little quiet squares at the base of Village Saint Paul, near an old church.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHBJXVFAKQd6TKfpK-beYeut35MKnrTA8-bACSpIer_Jj2g_wLsWx6EOeIy4dvImZKybUq-TEgCtyFN7vMjGWuOiAv1-8VgSgU3-MWJD5-PyAkHZjLg0hbp9kSCPAuwsnry2CU2EZmA/s1600/squareparis+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHBJXVFAKQd6TKfpK-beYeut35MKnrTA8-bACSpIer_Jj2g_wLsWx6EOeIy4dvImZKybUq-TEgCtyFN7vMjGWuOiAv1-8VgSgU3-MWJD5-PyAkHZjLg0hbp9kSCPAuwsnry2CU2EZmA/s1600/squareparis+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div itemprop="name">
We had a simple but pleasant lunch out of doors at L'Ébouillanté.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjOvHYtwMO6wSp9nj5beWR7pryuEBlPX7jUylmStA3_5bWG2JI-AZKzobL5V6YSTzeFlyyKoU1MY0wbWg4q9dWg3qj_eNTivNB9vRGFGnD54oSwIG-mYUKh8Q-IBcbCvUxEoWojqBAMg/s1600/lunchinparis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjOvHYtwMO6wSp9nj5beWR7pryuEBlPX7jUylmStA3_5bWG2JI-AZKzobL5V6YSTzeFlyyKoU1MY0wbWg4q9dWg3qj_eNTivNB9vRGFGnD54oSwIG-mYUKh8Q-IBcbCvUxEoWojqBAMg/s1600/lunchinparis.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-48899838884477990152013-10-09T13:13:00.000+02:002013-10-09T13:13:07.741+02:00Memories, Dreams and Maps at the Maison<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu64utsj6oShXEDsDku1gKWjvQ-KK2byQ2_ynNmJx14qbmFZ3Njs_3ZrgHQ2aHBctBLaWsvhkwdKDLO2Yhfiopi4YA3Da9Z3VtHdp0-4AMutH5pVDwXj1WwudJxoNpzRvHgw5MyRxulA/s1600/opener.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu64utsj6oShXEDsDku1gKWjvQ-KK2byQ2_ynNmJx14qbmFZ3Njs_3ZrgHQ2aHBctBLaWsvhkwdKDLO2Yhfiopi4YA3Da9Z3VtHdp0-4AMutH5pVDwXj1WwudJxoNpzRvHgw5MyRxulA/s1600/opener.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Our high season ended with a most extraordinary burst of creative energy at Maison Conti. Gail Rieke was in residence for two weeks, offering her workshop <i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Terrain: Inner & Outer Maps/Charts/Journals.</span></span></i> We had a group of four ladies the first week and six the second, with a weekend in between. It was busy and exciting, giving me, I'm quite sure, the fuel needed to take me through the long cold months of winter, with more than enough inspiration to keep me busy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
The women who came were an eclectic bunch of free spirits, gifted artists, dreamers and very productive individuals. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://www.riekestudios.com/" target="_blank">Gail</a>, from Santa Fe, is a internationally respected collage/book/installation artist. It is difficult to define her art or personality in a few words. Her method as a teacher/guide is also almost unique in my experience. She seeks to inspire and then draw out of you your own creative response to the spark she offers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4H-yPdbMvm3SYAskURowyngARblq9_BZNVXVdBY0TUoi3-lef9mpGhI9oMW9QCDJc5mDDxDv5A-U0rvqVwTFTuorxdhPKV2FN8mt53EgPQKuQuSAgNK0vofZc91GaciAx9BHFWVniA/s1600/1gail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4H-yPdbMvm3SYAskURowyngARblq9_BZNVXVdBY0TUoi3-lef9mpGhI9oMW9QCDJc5mDDxDv5A-U0rvqVwTFTuorxdhPKV2FN8mt53EgPQKuQuSAgNK0vofZc91GaciAx9BHFWVniA/s1600/1gail.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In the first week our group was exclusively from the U.S. Michelle is a South African artist who now lives in San Diego. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXbrH8g5jDIVeVTGwLgmQgMwTgrP_JCB99SuoLADZYoBx1C5JHk6d07BNWik_aFjZY3cwYu4Dp5m3SULPPvZ-2f7Y7uflr4WFJ4Ji017y6cpgQJ8UdbWIjeiwovRMKbTBNhezZuUAGgQ/s1600/michelle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXbrH8g5jDIVeVTGwLgmQgMwTgrP_JCB99SuoLADZYoBx1C5JHk6d07BNWik_aFjZY3cwYu4Dp5m3SULPPvZ-2f7Y7uflr4WFJ4Ji017y6cpgQJ8UdbWIjeiwovRMKbTBNhezZuUAGgQ/s1600/michelle.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Leslie is a graphic artist living in New York City.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhToJhu8s246gmNuHXpUQNXt4WasN3-FML_c76e4UiJAwWq7G476bs4TTZ6J2XcG3E8d1baJahkfI5G74m_-lcziM7Rytl59btoJ7ltgN1SnWua6azQSGjsVEuzjSiqW_rWINW3torw/s1600/leslie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhToJhu8s246gmNuHXpUQNXt4WasN3-FML_c76e4UiJAwWq7G476bs4TTZ6J2XcG3E8d1baJahkfI5G74m_-lcziM7Rytl59btoJ7ltgN1SnWua6azQSGjsVEuzjSiqW_rWINW3torw/s1600/leslie.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Linda, Leslie's mother, is from Taos, New Mexico<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2_J0qCnZhOJDguEiXT4ByA3_fNhULA-dT7azm-OWVD5OwJR0P4dGAM-pFVHcoL7FS4vZx5aQMiN1yU_N_g3aDMJ8SEto94q9K8b7e65zp8Zl9962hcE6ELziWoTpO2tZjydWc2kUtA/s1600/linda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2_J0qCnZhOJDguEiXT4ByA3_fNhULA-dT7azm-OWVD5OwJR0P4dGAM-pFVHcoL7FS4vZx5aQMiN1yU_N_g3aDMJ8SEto94q9K8b7e65zp8Zl9962hcE6ELziWoTpO2tZjydWc2kUtA/s1600/linda.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Gayle also lives in Taos. Both are very clever collage artists, and of course good friends.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NTbwEmwvtNQICLuK1UXD0CrGRf5xFOiSFePx4MhJipNO-IoQzDn4KB3uPbjZW5fLJCcytseCRnhqJBZxD_mQ_9aOnA5KMaAZSOq2jA4-OZehqrP2NuRGoGtjZSJS1dC6xKwx7KApRA/s1600/gayle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NTbwEmwvtNQICLuK1UXD0CrGRf5xFOiSFePx4MhJipNO-IoQzDn4KB3uPbjZW5fLJCcytseCRnhqJBZxD_mQ_9aOnA5KMaAZSOq2jA4-OZehqrP2NuRGoGtjZSJS1dC6xKwx7KApRA/s1600/gayle.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The second group was a little more international. Gwenola is my dear friend Françoise's middle daughter. She lives west of us in Redon and is a photography restorer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdH4DLDWDhJ-Tt3ammOxmTKbc043o4RRex-9bp6mdi-zRruJrsPaY414UBwPc6r0UFigqyxCyCKrbQ1COFYVh07V4ajORJDzbjkcoNcxAEil5qhS7X16GN4HVKFCljF-ESA9ETFmiTw/s1600/2gwen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdH4DLDWDhJ-Tt3ammOxmTKbc043o4RRex-9bp6mdi-zRruJrsPaY414UBwPc6r0UFigqyxCyCKrbQ1COFYVh07V4ajORJDzbjkcoNcxAEil5qhS7X16GN4HVKFCljF-ESA9ETFmiTw/s1600/2gwen.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Carrol is from Albuquerque where she has just recently settled down and Sydney has just moved to British Columbia from Eastern Canada. She is a committed "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_boat" target="_blank">dragon boater</a>" and does an enviable bit of traveling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcxyB3rOKSgOwmqEn2IkRHjJHa2qCkaLEkHPBKTVZYvDy4H-UCUBDAbgIy0JFIJDzi3h4MAYA7Z2Mtvk3ANZCwqqebmXuLDd650tSaCv2gPuUmROjAOIAqfQ-uJRmwEbC_VRO8fWzfw/s1600/2sydcarrol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcxyB3rOKSgOwmqEn2IkRHjJHa2qCkaLEkHPBKTVZYvDy4H-UCUBDAbgIy0JFIJDzi3h4MAYA7Z2Mtvk3ANZCwqqebmXuLDd650tSaCv2gPuUmROjAOIAqfQ-uJRmwEbC_VRO8fWzfw/s1600/2sydcarrol.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Celeste is Portuguese, born in Mozambique, and now living in Madrid. She is a very talented painter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlp6Yl7SVUbaY97coyeM5oBHHtFDS_i_FBQolTc4zz62YWoLEIQa0G_MNlAJtc31uJ4ON5mrfL_McOHHfsY3j5w9t3wNt1W1MNcIqK3VqmBcLZgQZCsE-QvhQX1kBp9l3CwW5Rvmd_g/s1600/2celeste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlp6Yl7SVUbaY97coyeM5oBHHtFDS_i_FBQolTc4zz62YWoLEIQa0G_MNlAJtc31uJ4ON5mrfL_McOHHfsY3j5w9t3wNt1W1MNcIqK3VqmBcLZgQZCsE-QvhQX1kBp9l3CwW5Rvmd_g/s1600/2celeste.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Karen is a weaver living in Los Angeles.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUDOidmjNAoRPK0njd_GlnbIVVqDi1EsIEYqnnolV6fa84_j2DX5McSSVOyDUrJ_OHo3yWANSv4RVzbNZgEk_AdCGyBiSSlIQ6TjTxo7C05kvD3hNYpY8Gm1J8G3SFbqs32zSDlxpvg/s1600/karen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUDOidmjNAoRPK0njd_GlnbIVVqDi1EsIEYqnnolV6fa84_j2DX5McSSVOyDUrJ_OHo3yWANSv4RVzbNZgEk_AdCGyBiSSlIQ6TjTxo7C05kvD3hNYpY8Gm1J8G3SFbqs32zSDlxpvg/s1600/karen.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Nelly lives in Paris and teaches art in Blois. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5WHQL2P7aDHPMk0aQzU4m4Z-eAmaMmZl167Kut5csfMu7gZuZcotxc7AADiZjDEheLZNDNHn_ynOlKORnifrqeVdeBkRaSXNmF5qqY2ATlTTzWSsefh4S_GySkaCI-mZVyfdwdRpxg/s1600/nelly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5WHQL2P7aDHPMk0aQzU4m4Z-eAmaMmZl167Kut5csfMu7gZuZcotxc7AADiZjDEheLZNDNHn_ynOlKORnifrqeVdeBkRaSXNmF5qqY2ATlTTzWSsefh4S_GySkaCI-mZVyfdwdRpxg/s1600/nelly.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
All these women are interesting, open, ready to go and contributed immensely to the atmosphere of fun and creative stimulation! What a privilege it was for us to host them. I even got to take part in the first week's activities.<br />
<br />
We had breakfasts together then went into the studio in the morning. Each day Gail presented a different guided activity, idea, encouragement, incentive. We then worked in silence as everyone responded in their own personal way. At the end of the morning we discussed our results with one another. The combination of quiet and sharing suited my own rhythm very well indeed. We had lunch together and then spent the afternoon as we liked, working further on projects, exploring the neighborhood or sketching out ideas in our journals. At dinner we played games, talked and laughed a lot.<br />
<br />
The first project we did was a memory map and it was inspired by a book by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warja_Honegger-Lavater" target="_blank">Warja Honegger-Lavater</a>. She is a Swiss artist who created accordion fold fairy tale books using symbols or pictograms rather than illustrations to tell the stories. Gail brought us <i>Little Red Riding Hood</i>. The idea was to illustrate a memory from our childhood using only symbols which we would invent and manipulate to recreate our recollections on paper. I found this idea thrilling and Warja's book amazing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9Si6axkAHqgjJm4jUdU_Q3_CfM2MvBVDoG2TXHlwV9XFmJeoEl_KpHxPMXYcFMBN-BdLP-HbXmdPTAikAdAKuGpIbopPFbKLRCdEn6LYsSikJz948hAAzKS3J9R_Xt8OyhEdOg_sfQ/s1600/1red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9Si6axkAHqgjJm4jUdU_Q3_CfM2MvBVDoG2TXHlwV9XFmJeoEl_KpHxPMXYcFMBN-BdLP-HbXmdPTAikAdAKuGpIbopPFbKLRCdEn6LYsSikJz948hAAzKS3J9R_Xt8OyhEdOg_sfQ/s1600/1red.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Gwenola's memory map in progress:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cVKjiVq-W1rylOtwfuJ72tI2gUC4NPU90HTdTt3Ps0gqG4q465WBD9bufXAzcRq0m2i7KT78EeRqguOU5h7S8w__2sYiiX9_XObFNG1IEDt2SKde3YRjWz1_ScV8tMRqEn4Q7JPKcA/s1600/2gwenmemmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cVKjiVq-W1rylOtwfuJ72tI2gUC4NPU90HTdTt3Ps0gqG4q465WBD9bufXAzcRq0m2i7KT78EeRqguOU5h7S8w__2sYiiX9_XObFNG1IEDt2SKde3YRjWz1_ScV8tMRqEn4Q7JPKcA/s1600/2gwenmemmap.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Nelly's memory map completed. A walk to school.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFXbCXxmoR3UtwjufnwuOKEvV5OfrWt9-t3yzFuhPRBI2jKzc4yunywhYgY1F4MiKm8oaEXNIDFiGI3IYEWn5fstEtycoKnyLhysm_PKLrD-VSsOKN6erjNJnEh69B81FXVAN_22Nq2g/s1600/2nellymemmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFXbCXxmoR3UtwjufnwuOKEvV5OfrWt9-t3yzFuhPRBI2jKzc4yunywhYgY1F4MiKm8oaEXNIDFiGI3IYEWn5fstEtycoKnyLhysm_PKLrD-VSsOKN6erjNJnEh69B81FXVAN_22Nq2g/s1600/2nellymemmap.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Sydney's memory map as conceived in her journal:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuEGEs9AQJL_Drtoh7kmzuhR1WirxqgBSM4lI065TllhMp8jc8gDJ1py-kGJmz0huR4uPYjRbB_BGJAzse2bU75fd5j6SXThF_YvCS7pwhA1LE1_W3qEVneH0a5unBifJoYQP_DrP0g/s1600/2sydmemmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuEGEs9AQJL_Drtoh7kmzuhR1WirxqgBSM4lI065TllhMp8jc8gDJ1py-kGJmz0huR4uPYjRbB_BGJAzse2bU75fd5j6SXThF_YvCS7pwhA1LE1_W3qEVneH0a5unBifJoYQP_DrP0g/s1600/2sydmemmap.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I loved watching how differently people work and I very much appreciated finding a few new ways to sketch out my own ideas.<br />
<br />
Our second project involved mapping a part or the whole of our bodies. During the first week several people traced their entire form onto a large piece of butcher paper. During the second week no one chose to do that.<br />
<br />
Leslie traced her body onto sheet of paper and then cut it out. We all loved the way that made it flop around and curl up in interesting ways. She illustrated her insides with clever drawings and very amusing annotations. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnv0RfizdmhKhIBOFSWj5QoRxiVk9MSTcSPBMFrqk1fcYoY_OlZxlJzn3AAM3bzcRdhblwaQVpzcEXwQB2QUh8h1BYqzf_dhLAj4V6Mn9XvIXFa-3tWGLIteOoLZc127kUrGZo86di9g/s1600/1lesbod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnv0RfizdmhKhIBOFSWj5QoRxiVk9MSTcSPBMFrqk1fcYoY_OlZxlJzn3AAM3bzcRdhblwaQVpzcEXwQB2QUh8h1BYqzf_dhLAj4V6Mn9XvIXFa-3tWGLIteOoLZc127kUrGZo86di9g/s1600/1lesbod.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Linda's body map was a beautiful detail of her hands and arms. It reminded me of a Tibetan art work, although the symbols were certainly entirely western.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxR8sTYOPTSAP-N3KWHUS2eNVWDgBdVBvZsEX0smpg2YWDRT51CToxYNB_BH8muzvZDXKot4sA_QQiVs_oAiVK8ycmjwHSlB-7lNcY5K-yZmD1Br0HPYFNBFtCOgTBiX2wKR97b3SIQ/s1600/1lindabod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxR8sTYOPTSAP-N3KWHUS2eNVWDgBdVBvZsEX0smpg2YWDRT51CToxYNB_BH8muzvZDXKot4sA_QQiVs_oAiVK8ycmjwHSlB-7lNcY5K-yZmD1Br0HPYFNBFtCOgTBiX2wKR97b3SIQ/s1600/1lindabod.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Gayle used her body map as an entire autobiography, with profound meaning for her, which she generously shared.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN66UkSs_PNv7jx6O8aAMi8tdbB0wjhRV9PMW0srLfHlTp3y_3KwpwrexxqFz-iBFWFGANBBakhrJ0m-s8pYwUMM2PgWrJxWLpywxwLaKw6oO0yb4VLrYdoVhHH8Xz8r6b3Z-Lsj6ORA/s1600/galebod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN66UkSs_PNv7jx6O8aAMi8tdbB0wjhRV9PMW0srLfHlTp3y_3KwpwrexxqFz-iBFWFGANBBakhrJ0m-s8pYwUMM2PgWrJxWLpywxwLaKw6oO0yb4VLrYdoVhHH8Xz8r6b3Z-Lsj6ORA/s1600/galebod.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Michelle's body map was full of fun, personal experience and whimsical questions.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QYHmVe03cHmbOmFvGBG6cVuxhOebbwyJlUV0Cu-nWiIDe2d3y0ADdgEpIhLDQwA2PzYVDAC9wnsQvnJjVURFj3-g4QfXr2dqlGn4qxd1GIByUkn85P4SMIki69nPXndpqf-fEGchjQ/s1600/1michbod+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QYHmVe03cHmbOmFvGBG6cVuxhOebbwyJlUV0Cu-nWiIDe2d3y0ADdgEpIhLDQwA2PzYVDAC9wnsQvnJjVURFj3-g4QfXr2dqlGn4qxd1GIByUkn85P4SMIki69nPXndpqf-fEGchjQ/s1600/1michbod+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nelly's body map in progress:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJDRpbD9X5JIlNr2-nffThiV92qd0VhsadsyPTBMve4eoocoQIE_jN0jFJpyjo31PAwLNk2EtQJlRsuov0DJs3mtRLQ4xbzLWf8H0wF3p_wUAuc0hX0zpJz4n2UvtK3hfLnDqhzb4sg/s1600/2nellybodmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJDRpbD9X5JIlNr2-nffThiV92qd0VhsadsyPTBMve4eoocoQIE_jN0jFJpyjo31PAwLNk2EtQJlRsuov0DJs3mtRLQ4xbzLWf8H0wF3p_wUAuc0hX0zpJz4n2UvtK3hfLnDqhzb4sg/s1600/2nellybodmap.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Karen's body map focused on the senses.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCpmT3ZzZz95UvlBOUpEkckcHV3XZNq0vOfE6a70lwzVPN3rxS5KB-Q1Ot6-DXaPl_2z6rCncyklOik_zAsyM6j440UTqFMGxULk3uNU2mjFxvSlPI2zc20GHvpgoDLwT0xq18UqjIA/s1600/2karenbodmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCpmT3ZzZz95UvlBOUpEkckcHV3XZNq0vOfE6a70lwzVPN3rxS5KB-Q1Ot6-DXaPl_2z6rCncyklOik_zAsyM6j440UTqFMGxULk3uNU2mjFxvSlPI2zc20GHvpgoDLwT0xq18UqjIA/s1600/2karenbodmap.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Carrol's body map was a beautifully created collage, with strips of maps as veins.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGE01iDHB_ZJTu5xaxf_3spQR64vM-QTkcNPzIHzYlNGy3XTB9vky8Jgh-ov4XRWK6FZVziDaIQ9j8_g2o2dDcEhPVyq8tJQBnYWa8M5GCnx_v20vyv2ScofiebDWxj377mrnnzAlSA/s1600/2carrolbod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGE01iDHB_ZJTu5xaxf_3spQR64vM-QTkcNPzIHzYlNGy3XTB9vky8Jgh-ov4XRWK6FZVziDaIQ9j8_g2o2dDcEhPVyq8tJQBnYWa8M5GCnx_v20vyv2ScofiebDWxj377mrnnzAlSA/s1600/2carrolbod.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Celeste's body map was a clever representation of some of the places her feet have taken her.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXciIPCBRe8QOcOtuf33begUayBWMd1ae_4nVkcSddku0ZED8HtLp92wc18AFg_2CLCxxjn_P4zSXDDn9Gsb1cG7eGb7-cuFZkHnrHRtmIsqYqJC29TZyB3MZ85PmBw-irSZFawYmHvw/s1600/2celestebodmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXciIPCBRe8QOcOtuf33begUayBWMd1ae_4nVkcSddku0ZED8HtLp92wc18AFg_2CLCxxjn_P4zSXDDn9Gsb1cG7eGb7-cuFZkHnrHRtmIsqYqJC29TZyB3MZ85PmBw-irSZFawYmHvw/s1600/2celestebodmap.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Gwenola's body map focused on her vision and eyes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_jNL0mVvIspoJpITWafsQCfqmBKkERcoqYsTFNPziugi91MpDu2nHn5P_oiDN2GsyuC7Pp4ljxRwKu7AT1t_R8kNbl7rPC9F5QiWY5I2HtkUlcHcL5L610BAxS64lBD-N5rOkWMdmw/s1600/2gwenbod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO_jNL0mVvIspoJpITWafsQCfqmBKkERcoqYsTFNPziugi91MpDu2nHn5P_oiDN2GsyuC7Pp4ljxRwKu7AT1t_R8kNbl7rPC9F5QiWY5I2HtkUlcHcL5L610BAxS64lBD-N5rOkWMdmw/s1600/2gwenbod.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The final project which Gail offered us was a dream map. We were encouraged to think of a game board as a kind of map and to try to remember a significant dream we have had and turn it into a game. The juxtaposition of these kinds of elements which Gail threw out to us were very enlivening.<br />
<br />
Nelly's game:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRD74cBjvIXq50DXQXRAbynyVILm9NYdLJLy166p6-RoyaUL0AlMg6CGJl8EFElH3digMSVicVsjvWsnXuu9JeauQjNmwqlgNQk-eoMi-kQmKJA5jrA0WalYZhDtZWKJpXNOHiLFsHg/s1600/2nellygame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRD74cBjvIXq50DXQXRAbynyVILm9NYdLJLy166p6-RoyaUL0AlMg6CGJl8EFElH3digMSVicVsjvWsnXuu9JeauQjNmwqlgNQk-eoMi-kQmKJA5jrA0WalYZhDtZWKJpXNOHiLFsHg/s1600/2nellygame.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Gwenola's game:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_91wjZv-cMh3UGX2uGKaGF2ozL9ctPxnzxUceUSbpfluCifQ3v6B2DKf4RKUngjI2jd7yJI9qbMy3hBoPC04UpFme-BOmKZ8bpsFsWl0nf8zFJPsaszLh1LvWt2M60adGbpm9flGIRA/s1600/2sydgame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_91wjZv-cMh3UGX2uGKaGF2ozL9ctPxnzxUceUSbpfluCifQ3v6B2DKf4RKUngjI2jd7yJI9qbMy3hBoPC04UpFme-BOmKZ8bpsFsWl0nf8zFJPsaszLh1LvWt2M60adGbpm9flGIRA/s1600/2sydgame.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carrol's game:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8q27gF0jEjysn7LhjbyWqn3dJnEibF0lqz7bzhLT3kBkEzEQ9mwWo3dtLfBfRKvz9RI5wHJAGEO6lOSfOZgO1BC8FPUgFWsIve9s0_n_EG1dej0Mcy3IROajJZLwPOopaoIWSMWB40A/s1600/2carrolgame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8q27gF0jEjysn7LhjbyWqn3dJnEibF0lqz7bzhLT3kBkEzEQ9mwWo3dtLfBfRKvz9RI5wHJAGEO6lOSfOZgO1BC8FPUgFWsIve9s0_n_EG1dej0Mcy3IROajJZLwPOopaoIWSMWB40A/s1600/2carrolgame.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Celeste's game:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJj7BKR4U9qGr8mnIhIJlhLkpAzB3n6fCQoKM-75nWiknhzbp0Cbb5Cxu6A1peqvR51Q618hhEW2YrrgY6gByVBDSiQsjHVjzpmqkLsDNAIOAYQJa_4sFouqXMjQajjKhkEkmRArgcfw/s1600/2celestegame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJj7BKR4U9qGr8mnIhIJlhLkpAzB3n6fCQoKM-75nWiknhzbp0Cbb5Cxu6A1peqvR51Q618hhEW2YrrgY6gByVBDSiQsjHVjzpmqkLsDNAIOAYQJa_4sFouqXMjQajjKhkEkmRArgcfw/s1600/2celestegame.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Karen's game:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHOdFYvzGbV5069ZDCETCsJJBo4u7jK7bKvtSpNAyIWqCd77hat002pSdz0aIPRyE40etDGnmSrRq6fSLGlYIYAaKb1UKWuWOjRQ-Ox4n6dTEqfiOgGaMtIttSSNHniNgYzI03jjQxJw/s1600/2karengame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHOdFYvzGbV5069ZDCETCsJJBo4u7jK7bKvtSpNAyIWqCd77hat002pSdz0aIPRyE40etDGnmSrRq6fSLGlYIYAaKb1UKWuWOjRQ-Ox4n6dTEqfiOgGaMtIttSSNHniNgYzI03jjQxJw/s1600/2karengame.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Notes for my game, which I really hope to work on this winter:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7948umS2e-QHrjG6KYxdshWUXQ29RP3VX52f_NCc8kHmU1KyDCeoX2rHQrq_lTu1WUKtCP6NXGtP_u4QL824-3RdkpEqSGBV8XSQYtBak6pjuoaCWYtznXLK2kKFJ2nY25VmFzCT3w/s1600/mygame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7948umS2e-QHrjG6KYxdshWUXQ29RP3VX52f_NCc8kHmU1KyDCeoX2rHQrq_lTu1WUKtCP6NXGtP_u4QL824-3RdkpEqSGBV8XSQYtBak6pjuoaCWYtznXLK2kKFJ2nY25VmFzCT3w/s1600/mygame.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course the discussions we had about all our ideas were a very integral part of the experience but unfortunately can not be recreated in a short blog post. I suppose that next time you will just have to attend yourself! And it is true we are already talking of next times. This short but intense few days together brought us all much more than is easily explained. I think we all felt that we had participated in something quite special.</div>
<br />
Gail's husband Zack (and a few other husbands as well), participated in some of our meals. Zack himself is a wonderful abstract artist. Rick and I enjoyed talking to him very much. It was a jolly, magical time and I must say the house seems very quiet to me this week.<br />
<br />
Gail worked on her own French journals while she was here, seeing magic and mystery in bits of ephemera she picked up along the way. She certainly knows how to see the world as a place of beauty and possibility. Thank you for sharing your happy vision and creative spirit with us Gail!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWp672Re3AkLYNSuSFrzhxppF6TNuQrRV_0l2mWKQ84AFwomMUvmeQRewoOO1Z9bsegAEtIoTeZnr06Ktq2FVopi9xKpXRRKFifNK9hdKBLP8MHK18szldTkGmIrCi9lWrU42sx-aBxA/s1600/zack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWp672Re3AkLYNSuSFrzhxppF6TNuQrRV_0l2mWKQ84AFwomMUvmeQRewoOO1Z9bsegAEtIoTeZnr06Ktq2FVopi9xKpXRRKFifNK9hdKBLP8MHK18szldTkGmIrCi9lWrU42sx-aBxA/s1600/zack.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And thank you for sharing some of your photos too. Some of the images in this post were taken by Gail, some by me. I've lost track of which are which!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-7080546433541543702013-09-24T23:35:00.000+02:002013-09-24T23:35:42.993+02:00Music at the Maison<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjruJlFeNPsaHmSw0dlJkAdBI1Xk0_i-0lfzuzc7kNb7BpQ16a9ZbHr7x7av1aPSmRH4fDkXYuOXTMiteDCqrmo1bVXqxp0Ud4fR10lqxt088R-kCfkwukIiD7UueJqujcWXbDgvFvC3Q/s1600/gourpathouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjruJlFeNPsaHmSw0dlJkAdBI1Xk0_i-0lfzuzc7kNb7BpQ16a9ZbHr7x7av1aPSmRH4fDkXYuOXTMiteDCqrmo1bVXqxp0Ud4fR10lqxt088R-kCfkwukIiD7UueJqujcWXbDgvFvC3Q/s1600/gourpathouse.jpg" /></a></div>
Last week our friends Harry and Cindy brought along six of their musician friends and spent a week at Maison Conti. Harry and Cindy are old friends from California and they have stayed with us in France before. We didn't, however, know the others before they arrived.<br />
<br />
Cindy and Harry (left below) are very talented musicians, living in the San Francisco Bay Area. Harry comes from a musical family and has been playing the fiddle since he was a child. He was also part of the influential band, <a href="http://www.bayrec.com/baylabel.html" target="_blank">Kenny Hall and the Sweet Mill String Band</a> in the 1970s. Cindy plays guitar and both of them sing beautifully. Their whole family often play music together. They have published several <a href="http://www.mtwow.com/music.html" target="_blank">CDs</a>, which are highly recommended.<br />
<br />
Walt and Clare (right below) live in Pennsylvania. Walt is a well-known banjo player and was a founding member of the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Feed-Your-Babies-Onions-Favorites/dp/B0000003NP" target="_blank">Highwoods String Band</a>, a highly acclaimed and prolific revival band. Clare is a fiddle player, having started playing as a child. Together they formed a new band, <a href="http://www.mudthumper.com/orpheus-supertones.html" target="_blank">Orpheus Supertones</a>. They tour the world and have produced several <a href="http://www.mudthumper.com/" target="_blank">CDs</a> together. Walt and Clare have also transcribed 1404 fiddle tunes from the original sources
and compiled them in a book, <a href="http://www.mudthumper.com/fiddletunesbook.html" target="_blank">The Milliner-Koken Collection of American Fiddle Tunes</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmdyfWwxhyphenhyphenZrbhuluPrMsxAr6J_Dwfy2KqFppM0EjGRsxThRl2AkK-pokgBBlEqdZy5omQBMy1Nc-2Of9-VVlG2M1z_QP1AevPMXnudCE-ST0itzLKRIshiCE4gYXukimqI7BYAYe26g/s1600/harrywalt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmdyfWwxhyphenhyphenZrbhuluPrMsxAr6J_Dwfy2KqFppM0EjGRsxThRl2AkK-pokgBBlEqdZy5omQBMy1Nc-2Of9-VVlG2M1z_QP1AevPMXnudCE-ST0itzLKRIshiCE4gYXukimqI7BYAYe26g/s1600/harrywalt.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ted and Sharry (below left) live in Berkeley, California. They are old friends of Harry and Cindy's and play the fiddle and mandolin. Cary and Debbie (below right) are from Seattle. Debbie plays banjo and Cary is a mandolin player. He was also part of the Kenny Hill Sweet Mill Band during the 1970s in Central California. Currently he plays for a band called <a href="http://thereddogband.com/" target="_blank">Red Dog</a>. They have several CDs available.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQyNIimm5QzWNkQDSs3Esux1-J1KFV7P2RJ8l2Im_4kX_fby5f0J6T05vmyo0B7Nq5ymdl1CBWVaPV9mj9ZrmmniVIlxhSO1hsv2iWy7Z0T2j2wyvrEtfa-JFaFjboThxMVEWjXkmwA/s1600/tedcary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQyNIimm5QzWNkQDSs3Esux1-J1KFV7P2RJ8l2Im_4kX_fby5f0J6T05vmyo0B7Nq5ymdl1CBWVaPV9mj9ZrmmniVIlxhSO1hsv2iWy7Z0T2j2wyvrEtfa-JFaFjboThxMVEWjXkmwA/s1600/tedcary.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had personal concerts at the Maison every day and well into the night, but everyone's favorite gig was a public concert given at <a href="http://ateliermaisonconti.blogspot.fr/2009/07/tea-at-marie-claires.html" target="_blank">Marie-Claire's</a> beautiful house. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZD76oKAZ6KSnhJuM8L6S2BpNtvGK6nFY5-zqnV7DBqyFVvJkzvNIX9oTL6ZAmptdbjqstOpzZ7KPUm2i1L2teSRP_sNHHGeu-0ccHG-254lzXf1bhi0nUMtDtZdPH92i25Epv1QOZg/s1600/house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZD76oKAZ6KSnhJuM8L6S2BpNtvGK6nFY5-zqnV7DBqyFVvJkzvNIX9oTL6ZAmptdbjqstOpzZ7KPUm2i1L2teSRP_sNHHGeu-0ccHG-254lzXf1bhi0nUMtDtZdPH92i25Epv1QOZg/s1600/house.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Unfortunately the day was rainy and plans for a garden concert gave way to an indoor affair. Marie-Claire prepared a salon, complete with curtains for the musicians, invited a dozen people or so and prepared a table full of delectables besides. Walt had invited his banjo playing friend Yves, who just happens to live a few kilometres from here. Walt knows old-timey players from all over the world.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllCk84b8Z9YxqiPriypSMPOE_lD3edmJGDRw7gio_a1STo4luXCdQcGb-Cf0_MBPoqRJFMaQGdq5VFNrb-zDJi4aU5jGU0RO2EdU_Qqvqxrfw3UBN3rfGn2OabIUAbIm1G72bau33Dw/s1600/concert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllCk84b8Z9YxqiPriypSMPOE_lD3edmJGDRw7gio_a1STo4luXCdQcGb-Cf0_MBPoqRJFMaQGdq5VFNrb-zDJi4aU5jGU0RO2EdU_Qqvqxrfw3UBN3rfGn2OabIUAbIm1G72bau33Dw/s1600/concert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllCk84b8Z9YxqiPriypSMPOE_lD3edmJGDRw7gio_a1STo4luXCdQcGb-Cf0_MBPoqRJFMaQGdq5VFNrb-zDJi4aU5jGU0RO2EdU_Qqvqxrfw3UBN3rfGn2OabIUAbIm1G72bau33Dw/s1600/concert.jpg" /></a></div>
The concert was a huge success. Clare explained that the kind of music they play originated in Ireland but when Irish immigrants came to the U.S. and settled in the mountains of West Virginia they developed this new style of music which was especially meant for dancing. Most of the tunes are without words, although the titles really do tell a tale!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgQ0HsL9UrD51bKOddobZcT8VVoq9HscGwQe7Ri49kJh5nGdMgkaeyv6ywnjYq7R2MGJY2RNxtMszpXRtD-Zg3Jxupeug_kaSQX6ZLSKhZBZRqWfeV4tlSiZ7CGdBswqxRr9M5tB1-JQ/s1600/party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgQ0HsL9UrD51bKOddobZcT8VVoq9HscGwQe7Ri49kJh5nGdMgkaeyv6ywnjYq7R2MGJY2RNxtMszpXRtD-Zg3Jxupeug_kaSQX6ZLSKhZBZRqWfeV4tlSiZ7CGdBswqxRr9M5tB1-JQ/s1600/party.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Marie-Claire has a beautiful house and I thought that Debbie looked as if she were made for this space!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRAXZGYo600tiFvbpZItjJBE1wnajY8zMT7ZP643C3vbnY9UGvbhIPKKWOCnUnqNDwp_aR7JGNRcthD5tYR4Ujo993-BhMtlYHU8r05NHURHCS5d9uI6e7i2dMnR9QBaMzCdAGnYv4ZA/s1600/debbie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRAXZGYo600tiFvbpZItjJBE1wnajY8zMT7ZP643C3vbnY9UGvbhIPKKWOCnUnqNDwp_aR7JGNRcthD5tYR4Ujo993-BhMtlYHU8r05NHURHCS5d9uI6e7i2dMnR9QBaMzCdAGnYv4ZA/s1600/debbie.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After the concert, the musicians played some special tunes for Marie-Claire.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhy06CptjSmDtJf2ahCUIq-axPaMKcMZ_OgRVbt3HXR6Hhj679_K9syimm2xxD0fzDA-FX5h3b4X6NysgEdoTe_RtjpnIj5aXrMwf-_JJ9A7hYRPLUxnRUrQ8h3r6mqDnc8vnARpT-g/s1600/party2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhy06CptjSmDtJf2ahCUIq-axPaMKcMZ_OgRVbt3HXR6Hhj679_K9syimm2xxD0fzDA-FX5h3b4X6NysgEdoTe_RtjpnIj5aXrMwf-_JJ9A7hYRPLUxnRUrQ8h3r6mqDnc8vnARpT-g/s1600/party2.jpg" /></a></div>
There was even some dancing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFe8r6XuIK8WVRJPmVTFe54QXhziSTDbUXcMsLAuX0jEx1M9XmPkL28RCt7nvgOqVZVNoZVEETPjGoXK31XACjr-2_r3uXuIU8xgUBxG3zda5Itg1RjDA0d6qcDr_X5aoE7v3mKb81Q/s1600/dancing2+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFe8r6XuIK8WVRJPmVTFe54QXhziSTDbUXcMsLAuX0jEx1M9XmPkL28RCt7nvgOqVZVNoZVEETPjGoXK31XACjr-2_r3uXuIU8xgUBxG3zda5Itg1RjDA0d6qcDr_X5aoE7v3mKb81Q/s1600/dancing2+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All the musicians fell in love with Marie-Claire, and I think the feeling it was mutual. The whole night, despite the weather, was a real love-fest.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJO8-BQdBy7DleRp2H1uLUBfiTl76SbkaSFMBQxQxmn2LLItTI4HvX7EibE9mZyIdpUfNJQn1xY9JoidItYzdT5HGT23-dS_QGfXmze120GNpNMXADQSBYYX1GbaNvm08cx6DTaezlvg/s1600/group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJO8-BQdBy7DleRp2H1uLUBfiTl76SbkaSFMBQxQxmn2LLItTI4HvX7EibE9mZyIdpUfNJQn1xY9JoidItYzdT5HGT23-dS_QGfXmze120GNpNMXADQSBYYX1GbaNvm08cx6DTaezlvg/s1600/group.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the rest of the week we had the group mostly to ourselves. They serenaded us into the night.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmgokoedmosE2KL_ZCtiVEkomdFcT098gB65I9wh3S6mWx_ke0wTSCop_M2IBiFPME6csLLgbAoPyVq_EztlQb9HytIpIe55zeT9eM3K3W0uY_cHmsm0a6bWaUV6PARcowvFM2a-bOQ/s1600/meal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmgokoedmosE2KL_ZCtiVEkomdFcT098gB65I9wh3S6mWx_ke0wTSCop_M2IBiFPME6csLLgbAoPyVq_EztlQb9HytIpIe55zeT9eM3K3W0uY_cHmsm0a6bWaUV6PARcowvFM2a-bOQ/s1600/meal.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
It was such a pleasure for us to have these talented people stay with us. It was a very special end of summer event!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHCL9qw_PRbeeFLzBRCR7cTsMNFo5QAH8zaQT3JOroaZg7ceFAWmxrkXRWuo6FWtkBwhBpSxcA-egQ92KA6q2stoLSo3vqxdpSOKdvFNnrYV-CbzVIK7L4hHXCRaBxuYAgE-uAoX8vg/s1600/musicmaison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHCL9qw_PRbeeFLzBRCR7cTsMNFo5QAH8zaQT3JOroaZg7ceFAWmxrkXRWuo6FWtkBwhBpSxcA-egQ92KA6q2stoLSo3vqxdpSOKdvFNnrYV-CbzVIK7L4hHXCRaBxuYAgE-uAoX8vg/s1600/musicmaison.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you would like to sample a bit of the music, have a listen:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/jJTeirY8uQg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
As if musical talent were not enough, both Harry and Cindy turn out to be talented artists and committed printmakers. Who knew?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfTPjydA9wgmRVVGPt3kKYqjGCLFVEej2eHZrTAbAO88fFbClSdJrF7UiacIUmkIvOh52kSvfguR4l4L3kWJSFo8TzRLuwpsIHnCQVaw28Z_FlKKbikSFo5Y9pszkioWzG3g1FbL8Og/s1600/drawing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfTPjydA9wgmRVVGPt3kKYqjGCLFVEej2eHZrTAbAO88fFbClSdJrF7UiacIUmkIvOh52kSvfguR4l4L3kWJSFo8TzRLuwpsIHnCQVaw28Z_FlKKbikSFo5Y9pszkioWzG3g1FbL8Og/s1600/drawing.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We spent their last day in the studio and each of them produced a wonderful etching. Cindy had come prepared with a drawing and Harry chose to make an etching of <a href="http://kennyhallband.com/" target="_blank">Kenny Hall</a>, his musical mentor, who passed away while they were in residence at the Maison.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiW3t8E9KuEueJ0y_4j75N8s4Q4N7h0Yv-s0NKfL1nNEw6mzyXS9H4HLPHnFpMrTGwYRt7grq3ebMhv8gXpPLnowQRPCHcYJmQUCQ6b-uF3FBp5APrbN1OT2b6-oWjuTKAftnFlo3big/s1600/printing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiW3t8E9KuEueJ0y_4j75N8s4Q4N7h0Yv-s0NKfL1nNEw6mzyXS9H4HLPHnFpMrTGwYRt7grq3ebMhv8gXpPLnowQRPCHcYJmQUCQ6b-uF3FBp5APrbN1OT2b6-oWjuTKAftnFlo3big/s1600/printing.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7f-gt0GGKuPlYK_rBrKB6ECCE7jFvmD1_p8XNrgpJZIkLPpdVrNyPq2rXHtWKkmSrF2PdN8XjN_h6cZH43S1YwHxkJksWBG-WhJ5a-h5fDYRkd1b_wdYplanIZiRur3nndo6bvYVtSA/s1600/cinprint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7f-gt0GGKuPlYK_rBrKB6ECCE7jFvmD1_p8XNrgpJZIkLPpdVrNyPq2rXHtWKkmSrF2PdN8XjN_h6cZH43S1YwHxkJksWBG-WhJ5a-h5fDYRkd1b_wdYplanIZiRur3nndo6bvYVtSA/s1600/cinprint.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh31zRhVHk9a4t9MvD7VxXZTkrV33FImWatFCTQIib-Zq6M6Dyn4w9D5IDl8YFR_c0Ufh2qfchy2oTTWsDOQ8NHZGRiydAj1wdeVlsRmY0b2T30SH3RXQfPsGVJvfaNHM0RAfOQqVakIQ/s1600/kenny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh31zRhVHk9a4t9MvD7VxXZTkrV33FImWatFCTQIib-Zq6M6Dyn4w9D5IDl8YFR_c0Ufh2qfchy2oTTWsDOQ8NHZGRiydAj1wdeVlsRmY0b2T30SH3RXQfPsGVJvfaNHM0RAfOQqVakIQ/s1600/kenny.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After they left us they went on to Paris and played a concert at Quinn's school.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSJupn7bc0YiRggGHtzij02mnoz_CuEwHzlBJyOFRRHaQvSwBliP1PtlJQZ-I58vAcGVVM8oB6NdUM7RGDZBEVYeRd927BhT1abs_VpEHyYEGEv2HFwHwHNR2RaTZveIyFaXt646ynvg/s1600/school.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSJupn7bc0YiRggGHtzij02mnoz_CuEwHzlBJyOFRRHaQvSwBliP1PtlJQZ-I58vAcGVVM8oB6NdUM7RGDZBEVYeRd927BhT1abs_VpEHyYEGEv2HFwHwHNR2RaTZveIyFaXt646ynvg/s1600/school.jpg" /></a></div>
They were an enormous success there too!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFuaISHGUOo3UT7GtXNLL5wFopMz_zBMqQx_uIc-C3_Sm2TIaI2eZ-C5BHSvvxY-SCt9oDLdgRPDjhKDvpY7xv7V0Tjtz_zau_sveRachDr6lhuVbrkTvn0hfx-9nx5zxas3lCQNoDg/s1600/kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFuaISHGUOo3UT7GtXNLL5wFopMz_zBMqQx_uIc-C3_Sm2TIaI2eZ-C5BHSvvxY-SCt9oDLdgRPDjhKDvpY7xv7V0Tjtz_zau_sveRachDr6lhuVbrkTvn0hfx-9nx5zxas3lCQNoDg/s1600/kids.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-10648976845846463282013-09-15T16:35:00.000+02:002013-09-15T16:35:48.303+02:00A kiss of fall<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lKzKImn0CGm0xVHjBAV51oDv07eeIKWGhAunWIIv371Bsod1yJvgMl8-m7nS2-wXiOx3DdMnz7_Rw-nIrYhDp96PqixEnXLqXr1ZLOGT9-nGrOjQ0eBFYH6aHXV3A-8-2aR8mPGyCg/s1600/farmblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lKzKImn0CGm0xVHjBAV51oDv07eeIKWGhAunWIIv371Bsod1yJvgMl8-m7nS2-wXiOx3DdMnz7_Rw-nIrYhDp96PqixEnXLqXr1ZLOGT9-nGrOjQ0eBFYH6aHXV3A-8-2aR8mPGyCg/s1600/farmblog.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
There is the unmistakable end of season feeling in the air. The swallows have flown away, the grains on the hillside have been harvested leaving a golden stubble, a nip is in the air and soft breezes blow puffy white clouds around overhead. This is one of my favorite times of any year; this particular year it's one of my busiest as well!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMWTWZ5emYaKZjTu8Sg3nTOVfoLCsvJApgvlk-UQbtBSCa1NUV3Q_DebtsaXaUSwMFHZqVENlIz4QHGN-zFGAPFQZdLqsq18CKC23mS_8yOWADIRudMTMVo89JNgfIMcR9OtQGd2S1Q/s1600/clouds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMWTWZ5emYaKZjTu8Sg3nTOVfoLCsvJApgvlk-UQbtBSCa1NUV3Q_DebtsaXaUSwMFHZqVENlIz4QHGN-zFGAPFQZdLqsq18CKC23mS_8yOWADIRudMTMVo89JNgfIMcR9OtQGd2S1Q/s1600/clouds.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We came back from vacation and hit the ground running. A few days of bright sun and sweltering temperatures soon gave way to chilly mornings and early evenings. We ordered fuel and scheduled our annual firewood delivery.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEids0OaSwlXX64vXuZRmCszTHO3QZl0pYI0BPIo3OtzPeQil_0heBdqLv4OCUOdp0758Ah6R71XbejH6kM4YUnZLwnfBZuOUv7IQxdgvtfhvD9DE7btYuaUfiwvPBIyOtqk5ootCQJ9_w/s1600/view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEids0OaSwlXX64vXuZRmCszTHO3QZl0pYI0BPIo3OtzPeQil_0heBdqLv4OCUOdp0758Ah6R71XbejH6kM4YUnZLwnfBZuOUv7IQxdgvtfhvD9DE7btYuaUfiwvPBIyOtqk5ootCQJ9_w/s1600/view.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Our dear clients, and now friends, Wolfgang and Sabine from Mannheim, Germany, stopped over on their way back home from their annual three week vacation in Brittany. We have watched their children, Victoria and Roderick, grow up over the last several years. The family stays at the beach up until the last Saturday before the opening of school and spends one night at Maison Conti before driving back home on Sunday, cutting it all very close. They have developed this yearly routine which also includes the purchase of an enormous amount of fresh Breton fish which they drive to our home and share with us on the terrace for a huge feast. This year is was 9 oysters apiece, sardines on the grill, a huge crab for everyone. It spells the end of summer for all concerned. And what a great way to kiss it goodbye.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_wiFYYQhaJmE3u4jFl8c7mpOivNA2Tl8dmhnGieF5ykAmc2IDkVZ2Ykssgkh4tbf_N7gsLqohnBQCcRFHai1vmAtR8vW9KLdh1Z1_W1enxjYfyZUHG5E2kyD82PHzC7rOcSiJy0rNA/s1600/crab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_wiFYYQhaJmE3u4jFl8c7mpOivNA2Tl8dmhnGieF5ykAmc2IDkVZ2Ykssgkh4tbf_N7gsLqohnBQCcRFHai1vmAtR8vW9KLdh1Z1_W1enxjYfyZUHG5E2kyD82PHzC7rOcSiJy0rNA/s1600/crab.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I came back from Slovenia very invigorated, and have tried to keep that feeling alive, although it is more difficult in the routine of daily work-a-day life. When possible we've been taking slightly more ambitious walks down the hill and through the fields and up the hill again. The circuit takes almost an hour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Kftirdy-gLLRplgzR_yJI7WCSeNfrcHbGi8WZ0AM_QzE1e1PsRvDlyVxleRfxfS9fA8ZNu7u4S4uhPynN75mUUAuktWXgqLyF0PxmzAr5M02zLKTFsm_REZoTS1qnEDp-7n1tc0K1A/s1600/mont2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Kftirdy-gLLRplgzR_yJI7WCSeNfrcHbGi8WZ0AM_QzE1e1PsRvDlyVxleRfxfS9fA8ZNu7u4S4uhPynN75mUUAuktWXgqLyF0PxmzAr5M02zLKTFsm_REZoTS1qnEDp-7n1tc0K1A/s1600/mont2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It is very pleasant, especially this little portion of woods which is actually a narrow strip of trees separating two large corn fields. It's a kind of traditional <a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bocage" target="_blank">bocage</a>. Rick, who is reading <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/books/2007/sep/09/historybooks.features" target="_blank">The Discovery of France</a>, tells me that farmers up until the early part of the twentieth century had secret tunnels like these to disappear into without a trace. Their entrances were elaborately woven branches which were impossible to detect by outsiders.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOWfa0Zivr-GpI60rULn6El6GC3CjowptpyAaypn6vf56F-wq8_ahkTZMFMQ1crLWIHvSGCaPNRQ4I9lhJ8thsYINauxGHNRqnlZKnMLHCs6t7jUNPT9LLCmqn9M0yKtA70h_NEk9Kw/s1600/forestunnel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOWfa0Zivr-GpI60rULn6El6GC3CjowptpyAaypn6vf56F-wq8_ahkTZMFMQ1crLWIHvSGCaPNRQ4I9lhJ8thsYINauxGHNRqnlZKnMLHCs6t7jUNPT9LLCmqn9M0yKtA70h_NEk9Kw/s1600/forestunnel.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last week we had an Australian woman staying with us. She is a friend of another Australian client who we became very fond of when she and her husband stayed with us a few years ago. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sue had been planning her European adventure for a year, so we had months to anticipate her arrival. She was on her own. On one of her days with us, she requested a tour of the local area from Rick, and I went a long for the ride, as she was our only visitor that day. We took her to the northern reaches of the Perche, Bellême and La Perrière, two villages with much to recommend them. On the way we stopped by the twelfth century chapel of Saint Germain-de-la-Coudre, which has been under restoration for years. We had never seen it, although we knew of its splendid reputation. The interior is quite extraordinary, with wood paneled walls, beautiful frescoes, vaulted wooden ceiling and rustically carved beams decorated with comical gargoyles.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FVvfAT1VYnsJN_M0WDSQyvGa5Jcxxn6w1atTMpo_OowcjWHVce32igsaw3STp1n8Fb5yLqdfg46h-aOfZP4l-_J8PiYBoIChBVPDHEEUVVP7ZCENI0IIjRg1i5WGGVCEYLqUII70bA/s1600/combo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1FVvfAT1VYnsJN_M0WDSQyvGa5Jcxxn6w1atTMpo_OowcjWHVce32igsaw3STp1n8Fb5yLqdfg46h-aOfZP4l-_J8PiYBoIChBVPDHEEUVVP7ZCENI0IIjRg1i5WGGVCEYLqUII70bA/s1600/combo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We ate lunch at a restaurant in La Perrière, a beautiful spot to spend a few leisurely hours. The stone houses are quite picturesque,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDF9_r_mS6w-WiJ97WrToOi8H8rvLu2QEF-7e5EdMYaZ3y_FB5MtkIix2heN9d81KWjPvxditwS40XHqTcy6Rpwkp3yCVa6MXaTDOXiy-nm_r41jovPlYiS0YhPSlGVclaodpoSWFgQ/s1600/perre1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDF9_r_mS6w-WiJ97WrToOi8H8rvLu2QEF-7e5EdMYaZ3y_FB5MtkIix2heN9d81KWjPvxditwS40XHqTcy6Rpwkp3yCVa6MXaTDOXiy-nm_r41jovPlYiS0YhPSlGVclaodpoSWFgQ/s1600/perre1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
many of which have charming cottage gardens.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33IfDfgKFjDwHr3_92rSIyffY1f_IoMU-Mpbs8ZwCZgc4swfFfc3UtcxWL0s-2TQ-zHfSbAYkRh7ywBSA61GIdNV5ZFpj-fEhqOCQi4J_6YWceZQnTJptM_s78QdsKqL6RU8lzF1G4A/s1600/perre2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33IfDfgKFjDwHr3_92rSIyffY1f_IoMU-Mpbs8ZwCZgc4swfFfc3UtcxWL0s-2TQ-zHfSbAYkRh7ywBSA61GIdNV5ZFpj-fEhqOCQi4J_6YWceZQnTJptM_s78QdsKqL6RU8lzF1G4A/s1600/perre2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After lunch we walked through the little streets and enjoyed the sights.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZC42g8dwCCizNYclbP3vKadnumTLIMmHRcGwAqCPi9HNJON0Fak_D_fCBfnTm1V-REbJ82zOcHu5PIceALPwkK86dB-jU5EvGSq4nc-HuBD4B5o9iZ7_saEG3Gme5aJ_LGbeSxi814g/s1600/perre3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZC42g8dwCCizNYclbP3vKadnumTLIMmHRcGwAqCPi9HNJON0Fak_D_fCBfnTm1V-REbJ82zOcHu5PIceALPwkK86dB-jU5EvGSq4nc-HuBD4B5o9iZ7_saEG3Gme5aJ_LGbeSxi814g/s1600/perre3.jpg" /></a></div>
The landscape is bucolic<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Fn1Vs9r1AC0xqXoWAwwXosfJKVqPtfQFhfSwgqNqvC99JRJpcxspLXS9544nVjNHaZ7DdoCvExzk8uQUqgBKBukgZgiN5K0m2gZRadkHV_THDpuQgrFiV2FsvJSM3xRERRXF0pMQQw/s1600/perre4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Fn1Vs9r1AC0xqXoWAwwXosfJKVqPtfQFhfSwgqNqvC99JRJpcxspLXS9544nVjNHaZ7DdoCvExzk8uQUqgBKBukgZgiN5K0m2gZRadkHV_THDpuQgrFiV2FsvJSM3xRERRXF0pMQQw/s1600/perre4.jpg" /></a></div>
and the architecture elegant. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx7OBoMI-x-nAvMtQ2AAmQXhQ16R__8flmMomIROwm_DXMg8Kt7WUgTX4ABbydUsiAlkks3vTt9RsIHtsKn8u6ePkUsU0CqTF9dzwuyYMwQwr_LTYmU5R0jryF9KMLnwJu6aIeYans2Q/s1600/perre5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx7OBoMI-x-nAvMtQ2AAmQXhQ16R__8flmMomIROwm_DXMg8Kt7WUgTX4ABbydUsiAlkks3vTt9RsIHtsKn8u6ePkUsU0CqTF9dzwuyYMwQwr_LTYmU5R0jryF9KMLnwJu6aIeYans2Q/s1600/perre5.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The fall season brings many lovely events which I will certainly share with you here. In the meantime, if you're interested in learning how to make digital dew drops, check out this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyothXgOR0Y&feature=em-subs_digest" target="_blank">Photoshop tutorial</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuojoPIeElHrIqzQd4HK2cXV2eo8105MBnROzuPwcTTkcwERdbR1w2WvSSU7WWp5qiho6nXpWEOn2NcwdAkUNzKIWp1qfAb-l42uydNnIRxeSyXCfR0hPMe6wV3dZtmtdKkwIl9emTw/s1600/dew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuojoPIeElHrIqzQd4HK2cXV2eo8105MBnROzuPwcTTkcwERdbR1w2WvSSU7WWp5qiho6nXpWEOn2NcwdAkUNzKIWp1qfAb-l42uydNnIRxeSyXCfR0hPMe6wV3dZtmtdKkwIl9emTw/s1600/dew.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-71770366630841893072013-09-05T10:40:00.001+02:002013-09-05T10:40:43.386+02:00Dober dan, Slovenija*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqrIDJsaBqTFc9wvWSXDeg-DlQxeJ9st7tOC1-Ft1bcc8PZWKStuBT-NAGis72SBFrHw4Qzw7KywhbZEgSN2eL2hKOpgGSqSBAbvSjex89iu0WhqyB48Ealpv7t8FXUfQFCc_p_xA9w/s1600/opener.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqrIDJsaBqTFc9wvWSXDeg-DlQxeJ9st7tOC1-Ft1bcc8PZWKStuBT-NAGis72SBFrHw4Qzw7KywhbZEgSN2eL2hKOpgGSqSBAbvSjex89iu0WhqyB48Ealpv7t8FXUfQFCc_p_xA9w/s1600/opener.jpg" /></a></div>
* Good day Slovenia<br />
<br />
I got back from a long vacation in Slovenia earlier this week. I can hardly express how wonderful I find this little country to be and how relaxing and inspiring it was. This glorious landscape, as pictured above, was the view from our window for about 10 days. <br />
<br />
Last year Emily and her family discovered a wonderful place to stay, <a href="http://www.tilnikfarm.com/" target="_blank">Tilnik Farm</a>, a guest house in the foothills of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julian_Alps" target="_blank">Julian Alps</a> of Slovenia. They completely fell in love with the place and wanted us to join them this summer for a family adventure. Even James and Adric were able to be us for the first day and a half.<br />
<br />
It did not take long for Rick and me to share in Emily's enthusiasm. The farm is perched high up on a mountain plateau and overlooks a picturesque valley with the Idrijca river running through on one side and forested hills on the other. It is owned and run by a wonderful British couple, Kate and Brett, who could hardly have been more welcoming.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhenBQZhqM40q3D2griOkBp3of1MFv1frvdLZRuZKqD_617eziUSSpAeeLkJx705P-DhmuFyyQQGR-Dy8FQ2ubqMoaudbpdiBqpAu2IAhnnj6XLLqQX19WEQx_-g0S16q8cUTL5O2Zp4g/s1600/tilnikriver2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhenBQZhqM40q3D2griOkBp3of1MFv1frvdLZRuZKqD_617eziUSSpAeeLkJx705P-DhmuFyyQQGR-Dy8FQ2ubqMoaudbpdiBqpAu2IAhnnj6XLLqQX19WEQx_-g0S16q8cUTL5O2Zp4g/s1600/tilnikriver2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
On the property are pools, waterfalls, forest trails and magnificent views in every direction. Down the hill the Idrijca river slips through rocky gorges.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFfmBCQy-QGpUVN23HIVzEAo_GttUHbb07TgWRpUBt1TqgNi1XPGnMkweotHfljLmXKvK3zbBq62A-QXiB5oUDioJnDP5KTbpUV-WdQOInlcn_z2oBLSojbcWwP5GncFwct3LINvALbg/s1600/zinemriver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFfmBCQy-QGpUVN23HIVzEAo_GttUHbb07TgWRpUBt1TqgNi1XPGnMkweotHfljLmXKvK3zbBq62A-QXiB5oUDioJnDP5KTbpUV-WdQOInlcn_z2oBLSojbcWwP5GncFwct3LINvALbg/s1600/zinemriver.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The water in the rivers and streams runs crystal clear and we enjoyed many hours clambering among the boulders.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgl2xAxT1tIaAIoBZuBLXAAcPF0a5vnqlqeNpYExwyWewuAYqKQpu38Hzh4DX5Is_PT9_JTN3fl0O6xILrPNsXkHARAQbrkUQwjozAxofnU8pOmWwRFSM8DKebbtwRV19A8yvliYdXw/s1600/waterfallrocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgl2xAxT1tIaAIoBZuBLXAAcPF0a5vnqlqeNpYExwyWewuAYqKQpu38Hzh4DX5Is_PT9_JTN3fl0O6xILrPNsXkHARAQbrkUQwjozAxofnU8pOmWwRFSM8DKebbtwRV19A8yvliYdXw/s1600/waterfallrocks.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Quinn and Jos made little bridges and other riverside sculptures. The setting is idyllic and we often had it all to ourselves. This part of Slovenia is something of a secret treasure. Cerkno is located in the northwest corner of Slovenia, little more than an hour's drive from Italy, Austria or Croatia.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3QFnHOBX3hyphenhyphenBCzldS4KOOcOVC2L2-EIRvhN0veYye-zI7Yay0DZIWfXvvSI4jDE5Vcq04dNYyEeOdLGZyDisclE4st5PUzwHIDLmmhXXWk3LOA3m1J32C92i095Hm8IYbMyYCnMBXg/s1600/ladderbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3QFnHOBX3hyphenhyphenBCzldS4KOOcOVC2L2-EIRvhN0veYye-zI7Yay0DZIWfXvvSI4jDE5Vcq04dNYyEeOdLGZyDisclE4st5PUzwHIDLmmhXXWk3LOA3m1J32C92i095Hm8IYbMyYCnMBXg/s1600/ladderbridge.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
There was not much reason to leave the property, although we did end up taking some day trips and discovering lovely local scenery. Often, however, just relaxing and enjoying the exquisite view was activity enough for us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4KJ8T29PIrhJiI5xaqqqZnXYoaG9meFVtlw0wjzvrP1kweMRvQQP5-U-VirHVmVehf0JKZMF7Eh_N3YHKfATnVOrXXKph6xHNT-zUrQX6G0LgCtptTTdWhiGUAmSDfKcsG6r6zpETQ/s1600/hammock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4KJ8T29PIrhJiI5xaqqqZnXYoaG9meFVtlw0wjzvrP1kweMRvQQP5-U-VirHVmVehf0JKZMF7Eh_N3YHKfATnVOrXXKph6xHNT-zUrQX6G0LgCtptTTdWhiGUAmSDfKcsG6r6zpETQ/s1600/hammock.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The children were free to ramble and wander. Quinn seemed especially happy there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9KppWdx5KAyV22ulpiLag92uwmABN11kdJ_TtRvMGT3E9ZuuHULhhpzp8JJStcPv8V4wEQ6lkfT8o0Fi_jcNZaxvsIKQ4GKxUcZCAbUaVhyphenhyphenH9uoKp9_boT0YQQG9vb-zSdDm61YtgeA/s1600/quinnatwindow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9KppWdx5KAyV22ulpiLag92uwmABN11kdJ_TtRvMGT3E9ZuuHULhhpzp8JJStcPv8V4wEQ6lkfT8o0Fi_jcNZaxvsIKQ4GKxUcZCAbUaVhyphenhyphenH9uoKp9_boT0YQQG9vb-zSdDm61YtgeA/s1600/quinnatwindow.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
He really loved the animals, which included goats, sheep, dogs and chickens. Every morning he happily went to greet the fowls and feed them a little grain or scraps from the table.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIb8WhaIzeYeNcz_Qg5duHg70_O2picVxkc3Ya8nRlYZGMwaQ_CPfbVg5b__Wk8otS9cnJPIiB6d8IOGuCQhYl1-cII1NSxMOB9Qz5Rtfj8EB1N4Q0OveIBdzFrDOziNWYBUM1T-TXgQ/s1600/chickens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIb8WhaIzeYeNcz_Qg5duHg70_O2picVxkc3Ya8nRlYZGMwaQ_CPfbVg5b__Wk8otS9cnJPIiB6d8IOGuCQhYl1-cII1NSxMOB9Qz5Rtfj8EB1N4Q0OveIBdzFrDOziNWYBUM1T-TXgQ/s1600/chickens.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
He was anxious to join Kate, Brett and the dogs, Ruby and Lupa in morning chores.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQVEvS0-gxXjpoM4lTwVWou_8thuLax0RVVAXgclLiID-ujfe23UGCRLamvTf0Y5hFvChY22l3qHOb4GMzMzvWB7atItMbyMiMgyJPCXafw5O8pApWOAXnWycG27wzOXF93TYEKDD5A/s1600/katebrett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQVEvS0-gxXjpoM4lTwVWou_8thuLax0RVVAXgclLiID-ujfe23UGCRLamvTf0Y5hFvChY22l3qHOb4GMzMzvWB7atItMbyMiMgyJPCXafw5O8pApWOAXnWycG27wzOXF93TYEKDD5A/s1600/katebrett.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Meals were taken outside on the porch. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMKQbH1wwZeASyGF0-GrVA6sHekpTEJpYBwCafzsT1JtbV6wRusp4PI2GuD1xg99lajCLwKjSmoDjPbDM9eyj-bH9HE4V8OG_V6pTDL7vxYOpzN03w8p45PWbju31sGL9MIoe6yQuSVw/s1600/fruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMKQbH1wwZeASyGF0-GrVA6sHekpTEJpYBwCafzsT1JtbV6wRusp4PI2GuD1xg99lajCLwKjSmoDjPbDM9eyj-bH9HE4V8OG_V6pTDL7vxYOpzN03w8p45PWbju31sGL9MIoe6yQuSVw/s1600/fruit.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The landscape was a never-ending drama. We got sun, fog, rain, mist, thunder storms and clear blue skies during our stay.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uMu_yfaboXM46ABLO1JIZK8nVJgDgu51OXTTRRaaYD6SgzOZMO84_O7JXDCPPq0ddgadGr_EkbvmmmqSPE8ldBhOqz-FqSJOO3F72NWroE6O19ncDDax8SJLiplrg7rWVutJwuJ6Ug/s1600/cloudyview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uMu_yfaboXM46ABLO1JIZK8nVJgDgu51OXTTRRaaYD6SgzOZMO84_O7JXDCPPq0ddgadGr_EkbvmmmqSPE8ldBhOqz-FqSJOO3F72NWroE6O19ncDDax8SJLiplrg7rWVutJwuJ6Ug/s1600/cloudyview.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We were invited to use the produce from the little garden outside our door. Kate made us muffins and flat bread, Brett made salsa and shared some local spirits with us. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCE4ZbGN5ZMXUMFLDVKSWFVlW_cvwUorYsYuhviQuMTBIAwckkmPSaoxiJOykQPnad4MriwhVOctvDiDWAqRY0lJmRsAL7sfpV4r1K0xv_Kcuy_niTwHQS2728ppJBMmjpVa-DbwdyQ/s1600/gite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCE4ZbGN5ZMXUMFLDVKSWFVlW_cvwUorYsYuhviQuMTBIAwckkmPSaoxiJOykQPnad4MriwhVOctvDiDWAqRY0lJmRsAL7sfpV4r1K0xv_Kcuy_niTwHQS2728ppJBMmjpVa-DbwdyQ/s1600/gite.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Everywhere it was green, lush and charming.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAIyKqRI3ZRCYagQFg0Gq6yHHifx9FJCOl07VcAv-JFCCcMlaexR3IlIcBwSuLmKXc_NChxlRCfAQcJ4OQkgRo-zxGI8KGp6hE-yhLJivXPy1HWlXx1kyg338ZNZdMIl-rA5Mb-Z7oMA/s1600/roomforest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAIyKqRI3ZRCYagQFg0Gq6yHHifx9FJCOl07VcAv-JFCCcMlaexR3IlIcBwSuLmKXc_NChxlRCfAQcJ4OQkgRo-zxGI8KGp6hE-yhLJivXPy1HWlXx1kyg338ZNZdMIl-rA5Mb-Z7oMA/s1600/roomforest.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A path above the house led through the forest to a lookout point on top of the mountainside. Quinn and I headed up the path the first morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_erlQKLBavBqXsXyglbHy2rHvPbwjg8u1RoFOiC-PlIkc-FoE7IbagrphSIKePySdi6hyI48qABHcHezmiLoU-uWtV3Irn7EcJuL5-wfvxigqurdok1PxQpipaEHJnxeDe-TPw3b1QA/s1600/foresthike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_erlQKLBavBqXsXyglbHy2rHvPbwjg8u1RoFOiC-PlIkc-FoE7IbagrphSIKePySdi6hyI48qABHcHezmiLoU-uWtV3Irn7EcJuL5-wfvxigqurdok1PxQpipaEHJnxeDe-TPw3b1QA/s1600/foresthike.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Brett took Rick out fly fishing and he came back with a beautiful rainbow trout which we grilled for a most tasty dinner that evening. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-H1qWbo-Xvbqf9YElUoZDZcM19iumXiftPfs09TCuhOTK8eyS-7lY7UdoAZwHMiroiN3AfG3xRWKd5d8spilV9Q8QmNd_Gzbew3TkICicZ9SPzdeZAkxOiynO0ni7FJOJmCqa3acLTQ/s1600/fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-H1qWbo-Xvbqf9YElUoZDZcM19iumXiftPfs09TCuhOTK8eyS-7lY7UdoAZwHMiroiN3AfG3xRWKd5d8spilV9Q8QmNd_Gzbew3TkICicZ9SPzdeZAkxOiynO0ni7FJOJmCqa3acLTQ/s1600/fish.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Life on the farm was idyllic. I don't know if I've enjoyed anywhere quite as much as this lovely little corner of the world, where everyone is kind, where life is simple, where crowds do not overrun the sites and where one can feel very connected to nature. I walked more than I ever do at home and came back feeling strong and invigorated.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CvetAftDrGxEdneLXvIR5JxShhuYsKAz62W3clQl-Yy8JZV3YFy10ewF1500JhbHHclWXtKWCbyKgO8LDcDaKpo2HoLu71lCtoZOGcenXJJrJyV0FXjSPDxz0DhYUD2VS7Kpslmznw/s1600/goatsplums.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CvetAftDrGxEdneLXvIR5JxShhuYsKAz62W3clQl-Yy8JZV3YFy10ewF1500JhbHHclWXtKWCbyKgO8LDcDaKpo2HoLu71lCtoZOGcenXJJrJyV0FXjSPDxz0DhYUD2VS7Kpslmznw/s1600/goatsplums.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It was an ideal location for the children, who could feel free to explore on their own with few dangers other than wasps or slippery rocks to concern themselves with.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEink3_x44tF6mfq7QzSEDkBL2SWgGcnIrim3T859VEviMAmTjGRzZx5zwAYJbGshuQwx40L6dkOxKgD3M4w-bVdEDsooIRVg_ZITv7mSPfGvqQkCfEP7jiOIepou3EKJAnNrb0ST5wUZg/s1600/bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEink3_x44tF6mfq7QzSEDkBL2SWgGcnIrim3T859VEviMAmTjGRzZx5zwAYJbGshuQwx40L6dkOxKgD3M4w-bVdEDsooIRVg_ZITv7mSPfGvqQkCfEP7jiOIepou3EKJAnNrb0ST5wUZg/s1600/bath.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Days and nights passed very quickly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3W-MNydqQnbugFyv4R5R3Dz-Emd3IQ9oY1_BH6KaggsPNjgolFr8z67SKiHAwvlzZaaxatmvf_YpistVOnsKSQXr3ZjBSI-d9l3Qkdm2vnEZDvyTpgXR5oEcZx0bZwyRFC5d6QoKECA/s1600/night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3W-MNydqQnbugFyv4R5R3Dz-Emd3IQ9oY1_BH6KaggsPNjgolFr8z67SKiHAwvlzZaaxatmvf_YpistVOnsKSQXr3ZjBSI-d9l3Qkdm2vnEZDvyTpgXR5oEcZx0bZwyRFC5d6QoKECA/s1600/night.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Slovenia has only been a country since 1991. Before the first great war this area was part of the Hapsburg Empire. Between the wars it was a part of Italy. Ernest Hemmingway writes about a local town in <i>A Farewell to Arms</i>. After the second World War this area was included in Yugoslavia and Marshall Tito, at least to some, was a hero. After Tito's death Slovenia as a nation was formed, borders based on language cohesion. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rSCBLqgdPK-mgfQB2AKhTFGf8mFeRZJUarH0mXGU33djf69sVHtnUI6aWHjShg60nXB-l0rOiG6fcXHvYd78dovLWQZAA4VaOfzEE0oRQgYGWFovmb7k-xhKcblN15KIbXRh5J3Adg/s1600/damconstruction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rSCBLqgdPK-mgfQB2AKhTFGf8mFeRZJUarH0mXGU33djf69sVHtnUI6aWHjShg60nXB-l0rOiG6fcXHvYd78dovLWQZAA4VaOfzEE0oRQgYGWFovmb7k-xhKcblN15KIbXRh5J3Adg/s1600/damconstruction.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
One day we went to a swimming hole, where we swam, built dams and rode a raft.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3NTq7M4omG2hIdJJI8G_piYcDudIdGfSmJXdUHJbICJ0MZmSKp5M0ICVetyfkyg1YvfJe2Ksy2CTj7ZiHcc-e6yi1L9iTZEiZpS0QpWyrysG3AY2kNoMr76ZXmBXdZ-XPKYRYJ_aLw/s1600/raft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq3NTq7M4omG2hIdJJI8G_piYcDudIdGfSmJXdUHJbICJ0MZmSKp5M0ICVetyfkyg1YvfJe2Ksy2CTj7ZiHcc-e6yi1L9iTZEiZpS0QpWyrysG3AY2kNoMr76ZXmBXdZ-XPKYRYJ_aLw/s1600/raft.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Wooden plank suspension bridges were constructed high above rivers. Walking across made us a bit queasy at first, but we became braver with experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrGfhCoC445lqD_gXlubota_lO_jqHXEwVHBwSprc1In_ZJQREUAc314U-sam1YXXmIsvHEa93ciPaqNU5zgE2FiIkvzONaC5XXcUPHmY5ItmDjoGf-zWFs07eei4mtB0reWbx2KYBqQ/s1600/bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrGfhCoC445lqD_gXlubota_lO_jqHXEwVHBwSprc1In_ZJQREUAc314U-sam1YXXmIsvHEa93ciPaqNU5zgE2FiIkvzONaC5XXcUPHmY5ItmDjoGf-zWFs07eei4mtB0reWbx2KYBqQ/s1600/bridge.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the most beautiful outings we took was to the <a href="http://www.slovenia.info/?pohodnistvo=495" target="_blank">Tolmin Gorges</a>. It was a bright and sunny day, so my photos are a little blown out, and not nearly as beautiful as this place really is.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zyyU66Lbsee-MA2O85C4VoLzmS0PoFmoezTEZKnfpiAZ95WitNdaLAzmI6kks78TleHtOG65_FrvIH53Rcd4UjWzxGfVeuvHgEmQEuC3Q208g8DA6J5qjeR7Flz5u_SMPfBUmtNDQQ/s1600/tolmingorge1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zyyU66Lbsee-MA2O85C4VoLzmS0PoFmoezTEZKnfpiAZ95WitNdaLAzmI6kks78TleHtOG65_FrvIH53Rcd4UjWzxGfVeuvHgEmQEuC3Q208g8DA6J5qjeR7Flz5u_SMPfBUmtNDQQ/s1600/tolmingorge1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The water rumbling through the gorges and sometimes falling from high plateaus is cool, clear and lively. The walk through this national park takes a bit over an hour, Up and down steep terrain.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQUjD05rrV7pVra50ZoVFu3NTfF14K0G4aWwz7y_XibpVcY_Bn0RiIiotq5funlL9_vO3Upf4PEmdA67Aob362oM4sWJJdd6cKRcRUUCIPpkOLavlJOWRHzhO4yQ-0y55sXb5gRwtQA/s1600/tolmin2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQUjD05rrV7pVra50ZoVFu3NTfF14K0G4aWwz7y_XibpVcY_Bn0RiIiotq5funlL9_vO3Upf4PEmdA67Aob362oM4sWJJdd6cKRcRUUCIPpkOLavlJOWRHzhO4yQ-0y55sXb5gRwtQA/s1600/tolmin2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Apparently <a href="http://www.slovenia.info/?naravne_znamenitosti_jame=1837" target="_blank">Dante visited this place</a> in the 14th century and based the description of his inferno on one of the enormous caves he toured. It is now named after the poet. For us it was a bit closer to paradise! At the end of the walk, after scrambling up the path, we crossed the "Devil's Bridge," pictured at right below. Some of us didn't like looking down as we crossed, but I wasn't one of those.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRzbkAnFi6ZTGnLGqZYipAeQbr-4k75dC1dJkGjUaAo8EIF04wcZV-uoWJ0ZlS7teqAIcxJvd1aUCmrSQANTaBuPs55zjhGEPQNqnZlCgYaQL9O1mboXv-57W4_JnDdHXcDJdI2l-7A/s1600/devilbridgegorges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRzbkAnFi6ZTGnLGqZYipAeQbr-4k75dC1dJkGjUaAo8EIF04wcZV-uoWJ0ZlS7teqAIcxJvd1aUCmrSQANTaBuPs55zjhGEPQNqnZlCgYaQL9O1mboXv-57W4_JnDdHXcDJdI2l-7A/s1600/devilbridgegorges.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Another site very close to the farm was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divje_Babe_flute" target="_blank">Divje Babe</a>, a prehistoric cave where what is thought to be the world's oldest musical instrument was discovered, a bone flute. We took a walk there, which included some breathtaking views<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0uo4J9aKthNMvRhxg6KofQctFeYTHS8wJt5kj_A8lW4Mc4pQ0r1MEReXvZyA-i13YoCe1Ce3Fz1jC7jMoFBhtvxUmVT_Grim45fD-G-NDFYnfltwI5KtH31j8YRKu4fuzz907QDrPPg/s1600/walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0uo4J9aKthNMvRhxg6KofQctFeYTHS8wJt5kj_A8lW4Mc4pQ0r1MEReXvZyA-i13YoCe1Ce3Fz1jC7jMoFBhtvxUmVT_Grim45fD-G-NDFYnfltwI5KtH31j8YRKu4fuzz907QDrPPg/s1600/walk.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And a beautiful hill top church. We came to think of the Slovenians as mountain goats. So many of their buildings are carved into these steep mountains. Quite an athletic feat!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIK_nByrpd1O4cBC5bKSx78uA8L8-A5Jga83-uLfIJDdxJT4fqTsFwNBOfXzTXwaL5vXSzMONb_LxSeGoHbFFKKwRjsL-mLA6TNDlQGzgRDIW9sl-HRaI-eQdvqNQHBP5IGT54Y4_vlA/s1600/stivanens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIK_nByrpd1O4cBC5bKSx78uA8L8-A5Jga83-uLfIJDdxJT4fqTsFwNBOfXzTXwaL5vXSzMONb_LxSeGoHbFFKKwRjsL-mLA6TNDlQGzgRDIW9sl-HRaI-eQdvqNQHBP5IGT54Y4_vlA/s1600/stivanens.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a real pleasure to spend so much time with Zinnie, who reaches 19 months later this week. She has grown up so much this summer. She is talking more and more and has her very definite ideas about things. She happily does whatever her big brother is doing and learns so quickly, both the good and not so good behaviors! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLYgBHMwTr3ieAaY_hVSypnoj_lhVzDmj9QANODtRWGM5-nv6SUk8SsR9_vEwqpF5yOnLuw3y0KmtZoDF3KRC0xhTJn4PLL4Fl0A2yYbPIfrjj_d_39yxgXO1PErYnGZCG7CCab3ghQ/s1600/zinbiggirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLYgBHMwTr3ieAaY_hVSypnoj_lhVzDmj9QANODtRWGM5-nv6SUk8SsR9_vEwqpF5yOnLuw3y0KmtZoDF3KRC0xhTJn4PLL4Fl0A2yYbPIfrjj_d_39yxgXO1PErYnGZCG7CCab3ghQ/s1600/zinbiggirl.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Rick left for home a few days before I did. Emily and Jos were performing in a theater festival in Ljubljana and I went along as resident childcare worker. Rick came home to take care of clients.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We had been to <a href="http://ateliermaisonconti.blogspot.fr/2011/08/discovering-ljubljana.html" target="_blank">Ljubljana</a> two years ago, last time they participated in the festival and I already felt as if I knew the town fairly well. It is very beautiful, with a Mediterranean feeling. The buildings are brightly colored and ornate.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpX2NPtbBwbB2CGBPEozwnpP_nZqcVKVKdQDs7rgOcJA1OK1Dvq9HuOFWeHFEJghz9mTzqrZnWwWuFsQi3gK3HQg-X-uWHfwpfN4dKTxWH73A8Evq2GNjj6sejWwguXzvqOuuLAIypw/s1600/ljub1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpX2NPtbBwbB2CGBPEozwnpP_nZqcVKVKdQDs7rgOcJA1OK1Dvq9HuOFWeHFEJghz9mTzqrZnWwWuFsQi3gK3HQg-X-uWHfwpfN4dKTxWH73A8Evq2GNjj6sejWwguXzvqOuuLAIypw/s1600/ljub1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Ljubljana was declared to be <a href="http://globalvoicesonline.org/2009/01/17/slovenia-ljubljana-is-the-world%E2%80%99s-most-honest-city/" target="_blank">the world's most honest city</a> by Reader's Digest in 2009. There is a minimum of crime here and one feels quite embraced by its generous spirit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-h47wI5iskekXYGwfxaqvd8uI3HpSNo0adQRp4Hen6lKAUdwzbcAdeexgEXalaBWlV8TJJ8bK2W51SR9N0s5LPLF6UdHaiOTmQZMD6FHAGxErGNjsQHdh7fAEZfJGCr8VmKSKUnCm3Q/s1600/ljub3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-h47wI5iskekXYGwfxaqvd8uI3HpSNo0adQRp4Hen6lKAUdwzbcAdeexgEXalaBWlV8TJJ8bK2W51SR9N0s5LPLF6UdHaiOTmQZMD6FHAGxErGNjsQHdh7fAEZfJGCr8VmKSKUnCm3Q/s1600/ljub3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The festival provided us with a lovely two bedroom apartment right in the center of town. The kids and I did quite a lot of sightseeing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9E5B4mYsfgArW0AZ8gfHN0XiQvPJ_rpWezAPsEdJD_ohGE_7tVrtMqzf6qIjrmByHXYZkbqD0Onb5mX3dQO_ne3CNTGzWkBnBVQhPBhS7q_Vg_VOhGiDrBFHE_9kVKatt7OrW6d43tg/s1600/ljub4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9E5B4mYsfgArW0AZ8gfHN0XiQvPJ_rpWezAPsEdJD_ohGE_7tVrtMqzf6qIjrmByHXYZkbqD0Onb5mX3dQO_ne3CNTGzWkBnBVQhPBhS7q_Vg_VOhGiDrBFHE_9kVKatt7OrW6d43tg/s1600/ljub4.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The church bells rang throughout the day and I enjoyed this music. At night there was plenty of music too, although more often from street bands.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj46KWomKFZu4zbYqRw1CTgdj4-f7ii7NJoe3kVXNJ2k0WHw9N_vUX0EJnuxd-N8iFh13O1S_AGndzg6PIhDG4KydqzrINKp-l9l2NHex-9gNKRhQYePT6qPiRbe-3FmwtqsRr5pt1YdQ/s1600/ljublast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj46KWomKFZu4zbYqRw1CTgdj4-f7ii7NJoe3kVXNJ2k0WHw9N_vUX0EJnuxd-N8iFh13O1S_AGndzg6PIhDG4KydqzrINKp-l9l2NHex-9gNKRhQYePT6qPiRbe-3FmwtqsRr5pt1YdQ/s1600/ljublast.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The early mornings were quiet on the streets of Ljubljana, but the daytime and evening were jumpy. The cafe life here is lively. When everyone else left town, I had an afternoon on my own and spent most of it going from one sidewalk cafe to the next, lunch, coffee, wine, dinner. I had a good book and a nice ramble.<br />
<br />
Now I'm back to work where September rings in lots of exciting events. I will keep you posted.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlmxMgq0vUNQjvxQrhb2-pAl2H3VykvBlngVl0Y9MD5kSN_4EUDdH04Y2qcH9O-OEr_R-Y1drmwNe7rwckY77QNdYJLsmA_09pPsVXQBRcAo4GHnQbiKLX0wCpe3waJRRur6RINWuYA/s1600/lub2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlmxMgq0vUNQjvxQrhb2-pAl2H3VykvBlngVl0Y9MD5kSN_4EUDdH04Y2qcH9O-OEr_R-Y1drmwNe7rwckY77QNdYJLsmA_09pPsVXQBRcAo4GHnQbiKLX0wCpe3waJRRur6RINWuYA/s1600/lub2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-76123770445222292032013-08-15T16:52:00.000+02:002013-08-15T16:52:49.227+02:00End of summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrl2XVv6kPYltNxPouYbDLnw0BC5uBjYVozyub1LTVY4QCAnMvilH7AjNkTDALhL0vl0s-2O_HndblXlbjGmqocn_dZHFbgpkwphB7W83Ry7OdmsLujh-ohyphenhyphenF0h-oJpfTCyUZhpxF4XQ/s1600/Openersm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrl2XVv6kPYltNxPouYbDLnw0BC5uBjYVozyub1LTVY4QCAnMvilH7AjNkTDALhL0vl0s-2O_HndblXlbjGmqocn_dZHFbgpkwphB7W83Ry7OdmsLujh-ohyphenhyphenF0h-oJpfTCyUZhpxF4XQ/s1600/Openersm.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The fields around the village are dotted with rolls of hay, evoking the end of a season. These always remind me of Monet and his numerous <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haystacks_%28Monet%29" target="_blank">studies of haystacks</a> at different times of day and in various seasons, colors changing from golden to peach, to purple and blue. It's true that depending upon the moment, the colors and length of shadows change dramatically with the light.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
Last week I gave a three-day art course to Veronique and her son Barnabé, who were in town visiting our neighbors Anne and Christine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdVzKXxWbZJ5eAXokynlEDU6FWq4yZsF14BTRuqgder4m3RuXy0n7TC63NJDurrzXNDh5aYVjSHqINOPRnKOBC9XtSFc4f995rSxVvgk3dQIqemgMwfOYnKqWv9DWf7x2LJjQA8PUXQ/s1600/barnabe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdVzKXxWbZJ5eAXokynlEDU6FWq4yZsF14BTRuqgder4m3RuXy0n7TC63NJDurrzXNDh5aYVjSHqINOPRnKOBC9XtSFc4f995rSxVvgk3dQIqemgMwfOYnKqWv9DWf7x2LJjQA8PUXQ/s1600/barnabe.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Barnabé is not quite six but already a prolific artist, spending hours a day making pictures and inventing elaborate stories to accompany them. Veronique is an art historian. I felt I had to come up with a project that would be varied enough to be interesting to both of them, engaging the imagination of a child while not being too basic for his talented parent. I chose to have them make a book which would be a keep-sake of their vacation in Montmirail. We made several pages trying out various image-making techniques. This is a leaf print made with watercolor. <a href="http://polykromos.blogspot.fr/2010/04/monoprinting-with-watercolor.html" target="_blank">Directions here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObNiNE8lMUnD8ssJwgHUHRiy2mjXxGY-tDEm50qcV_PU9BLTo1R_rntP8RPcyIFFAme80gTRxLhjQuPKpPNXXDYt5tR9OWsiW2UkhyUnCbWhtEizhBIOPAde5IpZlDp_EbWpbG6A1GQ/s1600/leafprints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObNiNE8lMUnD8ssJwgHUHRiy2mjXxGY-tDEm50qcV_PU9BLTo1R_rntP8RPcyIFFAme80gTRxLhjQuPKpPNXXDYt5tR9OWsiW2UkhyUnCbWhtEizhBIOPAde5IpZlDp_EbWpbG6A1GQ/s1600/leafprints.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We also made monotypes, created by painting with water color onto acetate sheets, allowing the paint to dry thoroughly and then running the plates through a press with dampened etching paper. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL_yam4HmE52652MRijBIAUl5lQD84-KXfJZvFEkhMJb9uBcVQlNkh8ykcag4riluJ9ysmjALmg0buUWeCDw0UpjHelN1khvMuUHLt5aSdlTKcgcx2gE4Q_40CU5OgKS7nv0a2yEc8Mg/s1600/monoprints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL_yam4HmE52652MRijBIAUl5lQD84-KXfJZvFEkhMJb9uBcVQlNkh8ykcag4riluJ9ysmjALmg0buUWeCDw0UpjHelN1khvMuUHLt5aSdlTKcgcx2gE4Q_40CU5OgKS7nv0a2yEc8Mg/s1600/monoprints.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I discovered a new technique I had never tried before. I loved the results. This is called a gelatin print, which is taken off a bed of hardened gelatin. <a href="http://cassiestephens.blogspot.fr/2012/02/leafy-spring-prints.html?m=1" target="_blank">Directions here</a>. It yields two prints from one ink application and leaf/flower arrangement. A positive/negative, like these,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpS30H3mrQwdd4r2_TRYKzhy2SBBUuPkpAhyJ04f8XaGhpY6DO2IMc7IKoEQDvUWBi8FvbtZpW55xpYSdpqKHJ8uUDipc5dPspAVCc0wB_hjmdJdFnurRlp1H6tD5wlsepQ0oMDfvwIA/s1600/geletin1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpS30H3mrQwdd4r2_TRYKzhy2SBBUuPkpAhyJ04f8XaGhpY6DO2IMc7IKoEQDvUWBi8FvbtZpW55xpYSdpqKHJ8uUDipc5dPspAVCc0wB_hjmdJdFnurRlp1H6tD5wlsepQ0oMDfvwIA/s1600/geletin1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And a more painterly one. I really enjoyed this technique and I'm anxious to play with it a little more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsEABJNLInGOBD0wdVpvT6qEGhx5EbhP4xlVetwCtcy2muq4mh3u8vLUmxq0rLxYzleSJ7K5ETyKAyDdOvOm0Wq41WirC3SXUAdNxay97ClUxU7Ng3Ot6iW6zXGEWqpDUK-idutH9UQ/s1600/geletin2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsEABJNLInGOBD0wdVpvT6qEGhx5EbhP4xlVetwCtcy2muq4mh3u8vLUmxq0rLxYzleSJ7K5ETyKAyDdOvOm0Wq41WirC3SXUAdNxay97ClUxU7Ng3Ot6iW6zXGEWqpDUK-idutH9UQ/s1600/geletin2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We also made <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Cyanotypes---super-easy-photo-prints-at-home./" target="_blank">cyanotypes</a> and vegetable stamp prints. I thought that Barnabé might have encountered some of these methods at school, but in fact they were all new to him.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbbXDrAi4iN2Ml1Fx_DVkEQMUHk_lJqBtrea6mBz630UP2tqKKd9vK70f-TBMBgwct59qf0PXWrWv4zauAjSE0i8ZOYa-udDlmZvQYmhPbeTqU-kJ7A6KAaYuZIIyKjyKyEagly8eQQ/s1600/cyanotypesveg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbbXDrAi4iN2Ml1Fx_DVkEQMUHk_lJqBtrea6mBz630UP2tqKKd9vK70f-TBMBgwct59qf0PXWrWv4zauAjSE0i8ZOYa-udDlmZvQYmhPbeTqU-kJ7A6KAaYuZIIyKjyKyEagly8eQQ/s1600/cyanotypesveg.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
He especially enjoyed any of the projects that involved turning the big wheel of the press. We made some beautiful blind emboss prints and these seemed very interesting to Barnabé.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWN3uVO1JbMXMTti86Ny8W6F3LjHNWoCBqlo4eYzfzXbqgABDRQmOSYIZQn6vgUkg9SjCUa0zL6Y9R_dqtYDCn4hhMHYPeOhzOvSGyUGtnfQMm_iXxUINcujLRIie5D4oW29bVNsRIrQ/s1600/emboss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWN3uVO1JbMXMTti86Ny8W6F3LjHNWoCBqlo4eYzfzXbqgABDRQmOSYIZQn6vgUkg9SjCUa0zL6Y9R_dqtYDCn4hhMHYPeOhzOvSGyUGtnfQMm_iXxUINcujLRIie5D4oW29bVNsRIrQ/s1600/emboss.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
There were various other pages as well. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeefEVJW4cM" target="_blank">Scraffito</a>, plaster paper drawings and more. We bound them into a book which we covered with cloth after adding a silk screen embellishment on the cover. All this we bound with a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-r6c_trSxY" target="_blank">Japaneses stab binding</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPf4L1F-jDZV0niFmSpIju6CpZJasOzHQCQLx8QlRZsQuIu5QD4KRaaoHzF9cT7DS_p_0p87H9GebJdM23JTGCNh9LGn19vatd1gwIIT49HAS-hLEbDfsbmnXoiYMtkw4wwxB-zx7eA/s1600/covers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPf4L1F-jDZV0niFmSpIju6CpZJasOzHQCQLx8QlRZsQuIu5QD4KRaaoHzF9cT7DS_p_0p87H9GebJdM23JTGCNh9LGn19vatd1gwIIT49HAS-hLEbDfsbmnXoiYMtkw4wwxB-zx7eA/s1600/covers.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The hours rolled by very quickly. I think it was fun for them to discover many different ways to put images on paper and then to put them all together in a little souvenir album.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZzqBoJUxaahrXnIt6Hhc-WbGBQ1u04vHBhYeZqF1X3vOpQ-3L-G_3RMRrNnB36Uah-zb4pIVfPwi498q0vfhzdlTALD1OkvMzngn6z-3W59yagEReqB9jRtKUtCLuLELBLGd47Fqqw/s1600/classpastel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZzqBoJUxaahrXnIt6Hhc-WbGBQ1u04vHBhYeZqF1X3vOpQ-3L-G_3RMRrNnB36Uah-zb4pIVfPwi498q0vfhzdlTALD1OkvMzngn6z-3W59yagEReqB9jRtKUtCLuLELBLGd47Fqqw/s1600/classpastel.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
We are leaving for a couple of weeks vacation in the mountains of
Slovenia with our family. I'll be sitting by a river somewhere with
sketchbook in hand. In early September I'll post photos here. Meanwhile I leave you with this rather romantic photo of our chambre jaune, taken this morning as the late summer sun streamed in through the windows.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXMHddMVz0biQycgscQ_k8ZWK-iXkwXtJrdDr75cxCxXXEeKFocbTyZahY_lWzrbx5mIoTpZbmS5EnmfcVOpus8CaBJoJweD_392txgGBZPU695vj_UeFL81KFXmPjASz3fRh5u7fcQ/s1600/yellowroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXMHddMVz0biQycgscQ_k8ZWK-iXkwXtJrdDr75cxCxXXEeKFocbTyZahY_lWzrbx5mIoTpZbmS5EnmfcVOpus8CaBJoJweD_392txgGBZPU695vj_UeFL81KFXmPjASz3fRh5u7fcQ/s1600/yellowroom.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.maisonconti.com/" target="_blank">Visit our Bed and Breakfast in France</a></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-72172632329686957482013-08-07T22:50:00.000+02:002013-08-07T22:50:20.621+02:00Dog days of summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCxI6ksK62F03yCFG207PCLVQhw0TiFOewWKi3gQ8pk3OIRMaCW8lZ9XoBx_IGESMix8QCv6zRjS12HZamEFPInuEwj2CF6zjf8eOzPcs55Kfq6O7ST7Wg0TO0Kqf_byWgVE2bUOC9g/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCxI6ksK62F03yCFG207PCLVQhw0TiFOewWKi3gQ8pk3OIRMaCW8lZ9XoBx_IGESMix8QCv6zRjS12HZamEFPInuEwj2CF6zjf8eOzPcs55Kfq6O7ST7Wg0TO0Kqf_byWgVE2bUOC9g/s1600/1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Hot summer days and nights make me incredibly lazy. The garden has gone untidy and tired and the same seems to have happened to me. Even if there is plenty of action in town, I myself have slowed way down.<br />
<br />
In the village the yearly Medieval festival was celebrated at the turning of the calendar. We woke up on Saturday morning to our sleepy village filled with huge crowds of celebrants dressed in costume. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnf9n1TCEvTmPu61uVuOTVUeaZtUtgnMsh2rs6ToP9wVhwWWXP2hNV0JVJ_Q1CNrnhLeBNgU0kFVzjOev8Ggb-wCFKGdP2aAie5SFirCY1cDkRjBd3hwqtzATSCP-dUWXLk1jYvcTvng/s1600/vendors2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnf9n1TCEvTmPu61uVuOTVUeaZtUtgnMsh2rs6ToP9wVhwWWXP2hNV0JVJ_Q1CNrnhLeBNgU0kFVzjOev8Ggb-wCFKGdP2aAie5SFirCY1cDkRjBd3hwqtzATSCP-dUWXLk1jYvcTvng/s1600/vendors2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course our site is well-suited to reenactments from the days of knights and ladies. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Db_UsKfDfVweFfzkyZq20qn92K3uf29Lajx3M4RLG4S7DA-gesMZfT4TdLEAVCqIVHYG5w_h_1tfNtKEYgnSyyGuSGQb2AhFcilLxdqPEiqaYaeVwoXi-No41Dmm6Z_tQcoqd3L6cQ/s1600/blacknight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Db_UsKfDfVweFfzkyZq20qn92K3uf29Lajx3M4RLG4S7DA-gesMZfT4TdLEAVCqIVHYG5w_h_1tfNtKEYgnSyyGuSGQb2AhFcilLxdqPEiqaYaeVwoXi-No41Dmm6Z_tQcoqd3L6cQ/s1600/blacknight.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Emily and her family stayed with us during the festival. It was the first time Quinn had been here for it and he found it all very fascinating. I suppose it was like a story book come to life for him. He called me to the window one day and pointed across to the castle where the young student who gives guided tours in the afternoon was sitting on a folding chair waiting for clients. "Look! There's the princess," he said with great enthusiasm.<br />
<br />
I love the beautiful Percheron horses who gave cart rides through town. They're massively large and strong. They seem so noble to me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEjuPLSqNWaZS3YoMC9oVshCsDjvRm120nAnxk12QU5EjKwOJc2xqH2eC7HUk8nBxeTXZQV4ojCf_LhvLCmAN4K8CK-Qdc98dxJB0zAum_vGHYInR9lD2q0jhlMmUc71BmAKVYEptmrA/s1600/horseride+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEjuPLSqNWaZS3YoMC9oVshCsDjvRm120nAnxk12QU5EjKwOJc2xqH2eC7HUk8nBxeTXZQV4ojCf_LhvLCmAN4K8CK-Qdc98dxJB0zAum_vGHYInR9lD2q0jhlMmUc71BmAKVYEptmrA/s1600/horseride+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Quinn took a pony ride which was a bit tame for him, as he has become quite a competent horseback rider. Still, any chance to get on a horse is a pleasure for him.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5j53NsmbYTUoETEh8DqmTAYrDffTdhdUzQGR0xfeX9nehhd0HJxcOOOVZbQxXy0aOR-S-IZ8n8ec0nTp7a_Q03dN1iyP59bZeHqVvY4i8UaxBxos5gBLHW9_7pbiUUx-oRR9aFW3JHg/s1600/quinn&castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5j53NsmbYTUoETEh8DqmTAYrDffTdhdUzQGR0xfeX9nehhd0HJxcOOOVZbQxXy0aOR-S-IZ8n8ec0nTp7a_Q03dN1iyP59bZeHqVvY4i8UaxBxos5gBLHW9_7pbiUUx-oRR9aFW3JHg/s1600/quinn&castle.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
This month we're been able to welcome friends and family who are staying with us for extended visits. James and Adric, who are on their way back to California for the foreseeable future, have stopped off for a long French visit before their departure. It is such a pleasure to have them around.<br />
<br />
Philippine, the youngest daughter of the neighbors at our old moulin came along for a few days to brush up on her English language skills. And our friend David, from California, has just sold his house in France and stopped off to visit for a week or so before heading back home. Meanwhile, we shuffle rooms around a little to accommodate clients as well, making for a very lively atmosphere.<br />
<br />
One recent day we took a lunch and our kayaks and went into our nearest big town, La Ferté-Bernard, where they have a very nice picnic area.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-kzWcolleN0logjfg1KUNx8-y4Ri52qXeXprpAgcSQPDL9tDSmav2w35szuMzWakWeV8hgZ_F0yX14rDhaoBTdhSyVbHKkxj0Xnoh17v4ITznrCZb28_luBGei-UBRr-9COjWG1tnw/s1600/riverside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-kzWcolleN0logjfg1KUNx8-y4Ri52qXeXprpAgcSQPDL9tDSmav2w35szuMzWakWeV8hgZ_F0yX14rDhaoBTdhSyVbHKkxj0Xnoh17v4ITznrCZb28_luBGei-UBRr-9COjWG1tnw/s1600/riverside.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We chose a spot between the river and lake, near the boat launch. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIEUlLS41KNFatcJv3egMS0n7TslK1Bmk7JiY4WSRtUH-KiN1XpWmCgLyuz4hD6bSDPwJmyrjI5HBEXImdWjOpObdXbmuJ-wjzqeI9kecQEXpOA4fLCPiekeXvAsbZyIgbu19CqVfxjQ/s1600/picnic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIEUlLS41KNFatcJv3egMS0n7TslK1Bmk7JiY4WSRtUH-KiN1XpWmCgLyuz4hD6bSDPwJmyrjI5HBEXImdWjOpObdXbmuJ-wjzqeI9kecQEXpOA4fLCPiekeXvAsbZyIgbu19CqVfxjQ/s1600/picnic.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
We
took turns in the boats, read, snoozed, ate and worked the crossword
puzzle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQyZ5aQw6YoPmE-7tLbu25F86bMAJCwXEIou_ohF9OIFpWqwuAfRftW1LtRimpyEqbQGUFObV2mrBgfPKlWUisB2JPGECQU46MP3Dqn0BnP4FCsRpOJYD5ELx-87Wupb9gNUyyPEN6XQ/s1600/crossword.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQyZ5aQw6YoPmE-7tLbu25F86bMAJCwXEIou_ohF9OIFpWqwuAfRftW1LtRimpyEqbQGUFObV2mrBgfPKlWUisB2JPGECQU46MP3Dqn0BnP4FCsRpOJYD5ELx-87Wupb9gNUyyPEN6XQ/s1600/crossword.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The weather was just right, the park was sparsely populated and we had no obligations whatsoever.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZh0MM1Z-K6NBAFsUwuNnaHbKBIgOXQtsybGX2J2M-o9gBkXdQp0VjsTr4huJ6thMPKIvZjjGEm1GJkcpRyX3Xqz9pubhKbw06gJzQ8F6_TIGt5mABjBAytDxR7n-uArxs307JXC0f7g/s1600/david.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZh0MM1Z-K6NBAFsUwuNnaHbKBIgOXQtsybGX2J2M-o9gBkXdQp0VjsTr4huJ6thMPKIvZjjGEm1GJkcpRyX3Xqz9pubhKbw06gJzQ8F6_TIGt5mABjBAytDxR7n-uArxs307JXC0f7g/s1600/david.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It made for an exquisitely relaxing and enjoyable afternoon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOnI4e1i74lwI4uRXBQENvAWBddBbRVBdTT9340B5B7C1nF3vxAOxK3g_3pfOcQIeiNcnrQvULkAnE5H9bvdEk1cesm7F87w7szKWLXFZjNqa3H8T750cC_eWBQBpy-Er7L8SpLskMg/s1600/kyack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOnI4e1i74lwI4uRXBQENvAWBddBbRVBdTT9340B5B7C1nF3vxAOxK3g_3pfOcQIeiNcnrQvULkAnE5H9bvdEk1cesm7F87w7szKWLXFZjNqa3H8T750cC_eWBQBpy-Er7L8SpLskMg/s1600/kyack.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-12106573822623074932013-07-21T16:22:00.000+02:002013-07-21T16:22:26.842+02:00Photo Play, Home Made Jam and Quinn the Clown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1Zi90DYXxQKUj3NTBsnUfkEos9UK-Xcl9TsYUUyKzxDepTpAjO6r0LD68BXVMpsQuQG21C9S-tDZYRSy9mIiw8ZObj6VRX_XKXVN2BKCIQCrSZfd7YVFw-Cn65xS_M124HVfct99LA/s1600/moonlightcr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1Zi90DYXxQKUj3NTBsnUfkEos9UK-Xcl9TsYUUyKzxDepTpAjO6r0LD68BXVMpsQuQG21C9S-tDZYRSy9mIiw8ZObj6VRX_XKXVN2BKCIQCrSZfd7YVFw-Cn65xS_M124HVfct99LA/s1600/moonlightcr.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Once or twice a year I treat myself to a month of training on <a href="http://lynda.com./">Lynda.com.</a> I can always find lots of courses which inspire, inform and delight. Photoshop, of course has almost endless creative potential. When I use it, which is virtually daily, I feel as if I've just begun to scratch the surface of its capabilities, even though I've been a user for about twenty-five years!<br />
<br />
One course I took last week, called <i>Dreamscapes</i>, was offered by <a href="http://www.bertmonroy.com/" target="_blank">Bert Monroy</a>, a pioneer in the digital arts, and the author of the very first (and many subsequent) Photoshop How-To manuals. He takes you step by step in the creation of digital paintings and fantastical landscapes using old photographs.<br />
<br />
The Paris street above was originally a daytime image with random cars and people in it that I totally removed. It was turned into night and a moon and cloudy sky were added.<br />
<br />
I seemed to be most attracted to the projects which featured nighttime scenes. This street in Ghent turned into a dark and stormy night. I particularly like the glowing windows.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cnGLsoIwvqWmjmBQ1h__O3Fnt8u6j3E7F9Z74_66bYsCeEhN0DeAijIdQrGjZw1QyNqywjNsLOIio9JaXOgxj_iSnWYBIf7ELaNRdrb4YsfJAjZVrwa0QGpz5Qb6-Rcrx_t7ETQCBw/s1600/rainybldgcr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cnGLsoIwvqWmjmBQ1h__O3Fnt8u6j3E7F9Z74_66bYsCeEhN0DeAijIdQrGjZw1QyNqywjNsLOIio9JaXOgxj_iSnWYBIf7ELaNRdrb4YsfJAjZVrwa0QGpz5Qb6-Rcrx_t7ETQCBw/s1600/rainybldgcr.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This courtyard in the brilliant sunlight of Seville has become a romantic nighttime villa with a tiny apparition.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRQ9Cp7V_ETXneL8xnVCO8R9vqQHP_9iOocXLQnep6HQn53W6dCf1AUHo32w3TlNiRcTzYgqj6FBnb04HoQlz3eQhu_zjAB_kpjz0Y05Icfl1Wtezg0RdCZhEkvSmWhLixLF_0c-kJw/s1600/apparitioncr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRQ9Cp7V_ETXneL8xnVCO8R9vqQHP_9iOocXLQnep6HQn53W6dCf1AUHo32w3TlNiRcTzYgqj6FBnb04HoQlz3eQhu_zjAB_kpjz0Y05Icfl1Wtezg0RdCZhEkvSmWhLixLF_0c-kJw/s1600/apparitioncr.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I combined several photos in this image of the Montmirail countryside and Zinnie to create my own project using some of the techniques I learned from Bert. I highly recommend the course if you have interest in becoming a digital painter. You can, of course find lots of free Photoshop tutorials on YouTube. That's where I learned how to make the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1azanUamrds" target="_blank">rainbow</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0VACaVc6E9wbeUeR_cdbopJfU-nQ265Uh8mfrXL0qyq38AmohPxKCv08DZviKuExf2OWyk_7uRnj3jw7A7zpQtd5sNKHMZDiS1nW-p0GCbDDykhPgLA-uYs2PeKWcFtZgZ6NVR0lWA/s1600/meadowtransformcr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0VACaVc6E9wbeUeR_cdbopJfU-nQ265Uh8mfrXL0qyq38AmohPxKCv08DZviKuExf2OWyk_7uRnj3jw7A7zpQtd5sNKHMZDiS1nW-p0GCbDDykhPgLA-uYs2PeKWcFtZgZ6NVR0lWA/s1600/meadowtransformcr.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's jam-making time again. I like to make enough to last for a year of breakfasts, but that's a lot as it turns out. Our garden did produce a good quantity of cherries and strawberries this year but not yet enough to make jars of jam, so it's down to what's available at the market. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVsfy8jirgUNbjRb9926qMLca65WAUOaoINTLz3KWAOAR0j2980R9quWZScrQh6-SdxPxZ2CCCDGg4jG1G-wV-dqypFTmMEXogJOYbWqgJN5-aTLUmGgxSqEP_ubbTwsUzVS8feiGeA/s1600/fruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVsfy8jirgUNbjRb9926qMLca65WAUOaoINTLz3KWAOAR0j2980R9quWZScrQh6-SdxPxZ2CCCDGg4jG1G-wV-dqypFTmMEXogJOYbWqgJN5-aTLUmGgxSqEP_ubbTwsUzVS8feiGeA/s1600/fruit.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Although I've posted this recipe before, I'll repeat myself here, since the process is so simple and the results extremely gratifying.<br />
<br />
You measure out your fruit and layer it in a glass or ceramic bowl, by weight using 60% fruit slices to 40% sugar. It's an enormous amount of sugar, but most jam recipes call for 50/50 and 60/40 is significantly tastier and more fruity.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRtgwpL1dnFHcUyW4bOhHT9-qwvlDg0RDxSimIbxZtgNly6j45VauuC-Q3Qp3jBVCo-0GJQ9WUyn82pIpzU_Ottch4w24t7oY2bLX91MJtY-LZiSfIw02h_NWKlbS4i5SdfoWqsJxUg/s1600/measurejam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRtgwpL1dnFHcUyW4bOhHT9-qwvlDg0RDxSimIbxZtgNly6j45VauuC-Q3Qp3jBVCo-0GJQ9WUyn82pIpzU_Ottch4w24t7oY2bLX91MJtY-LZiSfIw02h_NWKlbS4i5SdfoWqsJxUg/s1600/measurejam.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Cover with plastic and leave it overnight in the refrigerator. The sugar and fruit act together to create a sugary syrup.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQ5-p2sEK5bE8gJkrP3y83kdfo-Ds8c577rYYKr0S6UWLm0zqItJ3d0D3iA_ZAqkx46H-sa3jlriau48014q8eCU-B3RM4CZ5NRJitrOvWBDkYugraRkslCUFqn9USPfvenHolEO5mQ/s1600/sugar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQ5-p2sEK5bE8gJkrP3y83kdfo-Ds8c577rYYKr0S6UWLm0zqItJ3d0D3iA_ZAqkx46H-sa3jlriau48014q8eCU-B3RM4CZ5NRJitrOvWBDkYugraRkslCUFqn9USPfvenHolEO5mQ/s1600/sugar.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
To cook, separate the fruit from the liquid and heat that up first until it reaches 230ºF on a medium flame, skimming off the impurities as they rise to the surface. Add the fruit and again heat up to 230º F, skimming off the scum. This whole process can take an hour or so.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXC0Phdrv7W7goUQeXGmp-9qkBRWWnHM1E8vkth3fWYcqGmNFIVtBNFkTISHZBKpEHy8w_LqeOZzpM1DKyu66XG1nAbRVNi5oOH9maWzLnuRJcLLKMJeCsWKOzNygZ88ah33ZHMFD5ug/s1600/stovetop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXC0Phdrv7W7goUQeXGmp-9qkBRWWnHM1E8vkth3fWYcqGmNFIVtBNFkTISHZBKpEHy8w_LqeOZzpM1DKyu66XG1nAbRVNi5oOH9maWzLnuRJcLLKMJeCsWKOzNygZ88ah33ZHMFD5ug/s1600/stovetop.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Ladle the warm jam into sterilized jars, right up to the tippy top.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-mV9SW4C5Ke_JyM1RqPY-U5T-b51hYNnBXPSnN445ldV4mKgVeZOAxQbKw6ljvhmPaMkaSx7go_Pv3NFyM5woAbUGZDHJpc8lMzdkgfJX6sZ1dvPZIsXJsT1cXeGBg3frfSZW15SpQ/s1600/spoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-mV9SW4C5Ke_JyM1RqPY-U5T-b51hYNnBXPSnN445ldV4mKgVeZOAxQbKw6ljvhmPaMkaSx7go_Pv3NFyM5woAbUGZDHJpc8lMzdkgfJX6sZ1dvPZIsXJsT1cXeGBg3frfSZW15SpQ/s1600/spoon.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Invert jars and allow to cool. They will be sealed and ready to store. I have received lots of compliments on my jam concoctions. Store-bought just can't compare. I like mixing up all kinds of fruit together. It doesn't matter at all what you choose. My favorite so far is nectarine, peach mixed with a few raspberries and garden cherries. The flavor is divine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQn1fHUY2ZJJbQx9JXaJwzPwXPkytnyY5sX1Z3_muoBjQ_pBQ0Lbx78UiZrz3KEZiMgBKsG-JauyhkLRNlrB90VeQT3Ms4jl8UT1TeBIr32eu80EkO11WVEVKMghxjglQXUDouK91GwA/s1600/jars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQn1fHUY2ZJJbQx9JXaJwzPwXPkytnyY5sX1Z3_muoBjQ_pBQ0Lbx78UiZrz3KEZiMgBKsG-JauyhkLRNlrB90VeQT3Ms4jl8UT1TeBIr32eu80EkO11WVEVKMghxjglQXUDouK91GwA/s1600/jars.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
Quinn's first summer activity was to take a clowning class from Pépito, a Spanish clown at a circus school not far from his house in Paris. I think he makes a very attractive one!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggySULS4SSCQbGBwnLb2ZpmdLalFKeYho85TpDhUTAjaqY2aIk5Kfcnm9Nr_Dm92QdykZ4XbFe0LVrFGZC4gttZYpFksQi1IBOVPIpnLE6Rh7ikTTq2zT70E7aBEiOZLff8RvIU4HzVA/s1600/quinntheclown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggySULS4SSCQbGBwnLb2ZpmdLalFKeYho85TpDhUTAjaqY2aIk5Kfcnm9Nr_Dm92QdykZ4XbFe0LVrFGZC4gttZYpFksQi1IBOVPIpnLE6Rh7ikTTq2zT70E7aBEiOZLff8RvIU4HzVA/s1600/quinntheclown.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-18055027839353246722013-07-11T10:07:00.002+02:002013-07-11T19:53:34.853+02:00Friends and Relations and Weekend Vacations<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcE2ekw6kX_SqthR-BZ1maTsFstAo31QC2dF25KciaNSquP2et1aKTKH3r5iXBGGbSE7A3hOqgWkIBsSRCfIxIwfbZmnmBpYB_FRnd0q-T4LQ3ZvMLxyk4XneLOUfXZKUQzeA_jjAwQ/s1600/lux.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcE2ekw6kX_SqthR-BZ1maTsFstAo31QC2dF25KciaNSquP2et1aKTKH3r5iXBGGbSE7A3hOqgWkIBsSRCfIxIwfbZmnmBpYB_FRnd0q-T4LQ3ZvMLxyk4XneLOUfXZKUQzeA_jjAwQ/s1600/lux.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
This summer is full of exciting activities for us, beginning on the first of July with back-to-back visits from loved ones. Our first couple were an old friend and her daughter. Susan and I hadn't seen each other for forty years. We more or less grew up together, living in the same community, going to the same church, and our parents were friends. We were always close but somehow lost touch, as our lives diverged and we moved away from our hometown, Palo Alto, California. I was aware that Susan is a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Brownie-Groundhog-February-Susan-Blackaby/dp/140274336X/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1373542071&sr=8-8&keywords=susan+blackaby" target="_blank">children's book author</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nest-Nook-Cranny-Susan-Blackaby/dp/1580893503/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1373542124&sr=8-4&keywords=susan+blackaby" target="_blank">poet</a>. She also, as it turns out, wrote for <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garrison_Keillor" target="_blank">Garrison Keillor</a>'s <a href="http://prairiehome.publicradio.org/about/" target="_blank"><i>Prairie Home Companion</i></a>. She is quite a talented lady. We began a correspondence a year or so ago and, happily enough, life swept her through Paris, presenting a perfect opportunity to reconnect in person.<br />
<br />
Susan's daughter Rudy is an incredible young woman. She's ten years younger than Emily, just finished with her first year of graduate school at the <a href="http://www.newschool.edu/" target="_blank">New School</a> in NYC. She is in Europe this summer to attend two seminars, one in Switzerland, at U.N. headquarters and the other in Poland. She is interested in refugee issues. She is also a talented artist and <a href="http://cupofcosmos.blogspot.fr/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.<br />
<br />
Even though they were scheduled to come stay at the Maison Conti for several days, I went into Paris early to join them there, mainly because I wanted them to meet Emily and her kids as well, and Emily wasn't free to come out here during Susan and Rudy's visit. We made a date to find one another at the sailboat pond in the Jardin du Luxembourg. Our rendezvous was wonderful, emotional and delightful in every way. We had the bonus of a ready-made activity for Quinn. He'd never sailed a boat in the pond.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuqhLHTOQ_kQ-uVjte9AnB4kOK4KW0ym_8URlqwV1BJSqJYATgE5M7oV5nsAXkdRE-0KIgXl35rGThpYInBVBZXfCyBnDyO6D-R4Ht0veJ7pV5N9E01oMWYBbHakx3HP2i5kW8hAs-ow/s1600/suzru.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuqhLHTOQ_kQ-uVjte9AnB4kOK4KW0ym_8URlqwV1BJSqJYATgE5M7oV5nsAXkdRE-0KIgXl35rGThpYInBVBZXfCyBnDyO6D-R4Ht0veJ7pV5N9E01oMWYBbHakx3HP2i5kW8hAs-ow/s1600/suzru.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
One can rent sailboats right there. They come with a stick for launching. Quinn picked out the pirate boat with the skull and crossbones and black sail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJr6qGBhzG39qDzVoahpHN3CU2AK_XcqCKogNhn9R2ELU3H0obiBCAo6GdeG3I-VfOV_1PLRab_ZI63xfSM44vHZTMp9Fr8z-zYQFiirJa_MQ9hcyYi-6S4loQrlY36WtVJpbSuctMbQ/s1600/boat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJr6qGBhzG39qDzVoahpHN3CU2AK_XcqCKogNhn9R2ELU3H0obiBCAo6GdeG3I-VfOV_1PLRab_ZI63xfSM44vHZTMp9Fr8z-zYQFiirJa_MQ9hcyYi-6S4loQrlY36WtVJpbSuctMbQ/s1600/boat.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We were all somewhat amazed how the little boats would sail out into the middle of the pond, but always return to the sides where it was easy to snag them and bring them back to shore. None ever seemed to become marooned in the middle. Zinnie was just as interested as Quinn.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNgrQY-qKFfrYFe6bawGX9GXgIEZjOo_yJiKaQ8FyIyN01Z1qKrMPaGJrrZjl1MgUpxfy5pNnw-9AiTOVBcwFZJDoK6wp11b-CsqvvvNCzDoZ9uCrEAIC6anNDPsVoZ4sAaQEZJ_Z2Q/s1600/sisbro+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNgrQY-qKFfrYFe6bawGX9GXgIEZjOo_yJiKaQ8FyIyN01Z1qKrMPaGJrrZjl1MgUpxfy5pNnw-9AiTOVBcwFZJDoK6wp11b-CsqvvvNCzDoZ9uCrEAIC6anNDPsVoZ4sAaQEZJ_Z2Q/s1600/sisbro+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Susan and Rudy spent four days with us, and we could have spent all of our time around the kitchen table just talking and catching up, but we did plan a few other activities as well... not that the conversations ever stopped for the briefest moment! We couldn't have grown tired of visiting after four weeks, let alone four days, but it's always nice to get out and about nonetheless.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We took a day trip to the Loire Valley, stopping by Amboise for lunch and afterwards the Château of <a href="http://www.domaine-chaumont.fr/" target="_blank">Chaumont-sur-Loire</a> where every year they hold a garden festival. We had not yet visited this season. The theme this year is "Gardens of Sensations." About 35 gardeners from around the world have planted and decorated plots to respond to the theme.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBlHb8aj6LY0PL2ob9pvOd7Vy44NhkZ5HIq3LuDXbiZHDwDHoYIQoxgTLFYLIda7bk9ObqcEzuNReyRtqYdyIx71RFc1b60WTW1nV5T402UZEi84ZCVQAdePKxGXGxZkMamJjmlHB6A/s1600/castle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBlHb8aj6LY0PL2ob9pvOd7Vy44NhkZ5HIq3LuDXbiZHDwDHoYIQoxgTLFYLIda7bk9ObqcEzuNReyRtqYdyIx71RFc1b60WTW1nV5T402UZEi84ZCVQAdePKxGXGxZkMamJjmlHB6A/s1600/castle.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Chaumont also gives commissions for artists to create permanent or semi-permanent installations in the large park grounds. This year <a href="http://www.stickwork.net/" target="_blank">Patrick Dougherty</a> has created this intriguing woven sculpture. It is a marvel. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignfp1sqd6nAIkpUjGs_tTETb_at4mekGBAWc-6sfx_TR5VyTikumwQ8SzUzWMuMWDWCDBFX5UGl7N4J4SO3GdLa61PRsOV4zJLVwSgbiReCVWWieqVrnXBOpFJjQen9HHUWLLF9pl7Q/s1600/stickhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignfp1sqd6nAIkpUjGs_tTETb_at4mekGBAWc-6sfx_TR5VyTikumwQ8SzUzWMuMWDWCDBFX5UGl7N4J4SO3GdLa61PRsOV4zJLVwSgbiReCVWWieqVrnXBOpFJjQen9HHUWLLF9pl7Q/s1600/stickhouse.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Wandering through the grounds of the château and through the garden exhibition is inspirational for sure.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73nKgAw9w8KnkUHsrv2hsaNAkAeOGMlse0CKsfo5U8Glwtv8-JakEr8WMWsZ-46Me7oPFdolIWEBtHbcQj17ScI1Omy-VnsPW4NynOTIhS6N6fhkQUM_AKVkTDx80wWUEjrcFpIlpYw/s1600/chau2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73nKgAw9w8KnkUHsrv2hsaNAkAeOGMlse0CKsfo5U8Glwtv8-JakEr8WMWsZ-46Me7oPFdolIWEBtHbcQj17ScI1Omy-VnsPW4NynOTIhS6N6fhkQUM_AKVkTDx80wWUEjrcFpIlpYw/s1600/chau2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The gardens, of course grow and develop over the months. The exhibition opens in April and lasts through October.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7g2fJ6KoOWoJ7kgHKLu6Q2RzA8xDb4_j4h1yKc6VXFHWHPFPVwFagXaEHkZJ6jdkfGnHbv0UZneSxa8njGwd4H5OcZJs-HNZF07eX6dcW3Kv9wP6uhGnRwgGMPG5X4o5lUqSxlXhWpQ/s1600/chausweetpeas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7g2fJ6KoOWoJ7kgHKLu6Q2RzA8xDb4_j4h1yKc6VXFHWHPFPVwFagXaEHkZJ6jdkfGnHbv0UZneSxa8njGwd4H5OcZJs-HNZF07eX6dcW3Kv9wP6uhGnRwgGMPG5X4o5lUqSxlXhWpQ/s1600/chausweetpeas.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The variety and whimsey of the installations is impressive. I particularly liked this white garden and the water garden complete with tortoise.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRvXlMQKhyWu_LUJqAYUoqsz9QBGfFx-ZhcsJW-dyhcQIg3zqJLkTp-8OgY6OSrjXoWewBP_MiQn9by-18t3KDPRMUNZbiIfEix10YiHOOWCqp_fLN_PsWEnmVpbrWMM3z_jZQv1kog/s1600/chautree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRvXlMQKhyWu_LUJqAYUoqsz9QBGfFx-ZhcsJW-dyhcQIg3zqJLkTp-8OgY6OSrjXoWewBP_MiQn9by-18t3KDPRMUNZbiIfEix10YiHOOWCqp_fLN_PsWEnmVpbrWMM3z_jZQv1kog/s1600/chautree.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Chaumont is a real center for gardening innovation. My favorite part, in fact, is the employees' test garden where all sorts of novel ways of growing vegetables and creating garden structures are tried out and tested. The vertical garden was developed here, where a variety of plants are grown on the face of buildings, creating fantastically beautiful living facades.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfHmd6uDfLyse8zE66yss7NjCwjFh2Ki8d4QK91Oh3MdN_pEeH69eoi1Ig6slyCbj951XJad6A6lwJMHdMJlipKUMZVFN8Tm5oa2-60ZEOXwc2tpHfl-CDqnEnbtVsi9-EtjFFHBwtw/s1600/magnolia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfHmd6uDfLyse8zE66yss7NjCwjFh2Ki8d4QK91Oh3MdN_pEeH69eoi1Ig6slyCbj951XJad6A6lwJMHdMJlipKUMZVFN8Tm5oa2-60ZEOXwc2tpHfl-CDqnEnbtVsi9-EtjFFHBwtw/s1600/magnolia.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We also spent a day in the studio making prints which was lots of fun for all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaLkvgyXtJes4PvBvL4t18NgwutdKQq1w-Wu4PxukcojMADNLKfFkM8jDj2subn9lS9no0BYm9y679t8N1vGAZ7qIUDRNfxkw324QWFD4-1O01bxUWo5sLCuQf0BKUt8sTeKUWY80TA/s1600/ruprinting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaLkvgyXtJes4PvBvL4t18NgwutdKQq1w-Wu4PxukcojMADNLKfFkM8jDj2subn9lS9no0BYm9y679t8N1vGAZ7qIUDRNfxkw324QWFD4-1O01bxUWo5sLCuQf0BKUt8sTeKUWY80TA/s1600/ruprinting.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
These ladies are creative to the core. In fact Susan writes poems on demand for her editor before breakfast. Give her a topic, say "the scientific method" and she'll come up with something brilliant before coffee. This is a real example. Etching is a piece of cake for someone like that!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOwh-1Dl8Pq4ujBI0TrMUOh-qg5YL4f5IHmT-pTJhJF4E9g4JpyW8PQKrXqEZ_BUwT-32IJOxZQhbN0et7T84NDWB_0MKDRbJvGS4NAP6aXPpgwnYQ9ZtNDtTo8UsEHQ9xy-oRGmYE5g/s1600/press.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOwh-1Dl8Pq4ujBI0TrMUOh-qg5YL4f5IHmT-pTJhJF4E9g4JpyW8PQKrXqEZ_BUwT-32IJOxZQhbN0et7T84NDWB_0MKDRbJvGS4NAP6aXPpgwnYQ9ZtNDtTo8UsEHQ9xy-oRGmYE5g/s1600/press.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Susan made a cat image, Rudy an ocean view and I made a river-scape.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6vL_WjRCf14tge1PzGZ-asLW5oX0kBvzVnTh8syKNcH5Bf8y3wZhpmz0f0LutCfNSP18FvY4V13I1Mwm3Xu-7StSe0FWbRQnTEMrkUJUB-s14MM6vmGtsH6P1_1XrWQq9na_ULDC2Rg/s1600/3prints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6vL_WjRCf14tge1PzGZ-asLW5oX0kBvzVnTh8syKNcH5Bf8y3wZhpmz0f0LutCfNSP18FvY4V13I1Mwm3Xu-7StSe0FWbRQnTEMrkUJUB-s14MM6vmGtsH6P1_1XrWQq9na_ULDC2Rg/s1600/3prints.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I read this morning in the paper that spending time remembering the past is not a sign of depression, as was once believed. Nostalgia has been shown to have clear health benefits. Susan brought me this photo of myself from lo those many years ago. I didn't recognize me. I definitely have no memory of the hat and disturbingly, hardly even of the dog, but our visit, full of happy memories definitely did me a world of good! And besides, we made a few more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7mE5pligffNiMz35HWEaWJ1U9cmjYh4QgwMWOC-swVvXPvMM_PFljjcbiiSVb-Q-ABfYCufJzhZEnB0KG_rapVaXjH5yrkFf2nL1sItj30sstStEcfhahXn38zgu1ebkTSMrGqVHnA/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7mE5pligffNiMz35HWEaWJ1U9cmjYh4QgwMWOC-swVvXPvMM_PFljjcbiiSVb-Q-ABfYCufJzhZEnB0KG_rapVaXjH5yrkFf2nL1sItj30sstStEcfhahXn38zgu1ebkTSMrGqVHnA/s1600/me.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<br />
Almost as soon as Rudy and Susan left, my brother Gary arrived with his wife Marilyn. This is their third visit to France since we moved here and I'm always so happy when they come. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSELX4MN-__H5POjTvxHkAYvY55TNJC4NX9LJqjoZMaB1-SfJPWUXZMb7hzXJ78J3yswskjF1zzbR6FhpRSTuaAEDpcjTRuf8VgDICi8rs0ywSsrjqihFmCreK5yz8BjKKzSNzNWMhxA/s1600/portrait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSELX4MN-__H5POjTvxHkAYvY55TNJC4NX9LJqjoZMaB1-SfJPWUXZMb7hzXJ78J3yswskjF1zzbR6FhpRSTuaAEDpcjTRuf8VgDICi8rs0ywSsrjqihFmCreK5yz8BjKKzSNzNWMhxA/s1600/portrait.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
They were on their way back home after a short trip to Ireland and they stayed only a couple of nights, but we did manage to have an adventure with them as well. We started by going to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montrichard" target="_blank">Montrichard</a> for a pleasant lunch on the banks of the river Cher. The day was very warm, which I did not complain about, although I did feel a touch of sunstroke.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZojQMfKcGnDFc40sjw4QEPFOeFD1cIk46FKJFQviCDkl4Zq6ATyezZ78qetJZyX8j8o-oMgkdKUzHNzzKUrXs8iNh_jjp8o7tDfGCE69GwXVViRd9G_mhWdH2sGpI2-Wf2-3YY72RAg/s1600/montr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZojQMfKcGnDFc40sjw4QEPFOeFD1cIk46FKJFQviCDkl4Zq6ATyezZ78qetJZyX8j8o-oMgkdKUzHNzzKUrXs8iNh_jjp8o7tDfGCE69GwXVViRd9G_mhWdH2sGpI2-Wf2-3YY72RAg/s1600/montr.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The main feature of the town is the Donjon which was built in 1010 by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fulk_III,_Count_of_Anjou" target="_blank">Foulques Netra</a>, known as the Black Falcon. He was an ancestor of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_I_of_England" target="_blank">Richard the Lion-Hearted</a>, who in his day reclaimed this city after it had been lost to a competing duke. The Black Falcon allegedly bit off a morsel of the true cross while on a crusade to the Holy Lands, and brought it back to the church here as a scared relic, making the church of Saint-Croix one of the important pilgrimage sites on the route to <span lang="fr"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Way_of_St._James" target="_blank">Compostelle</a> in the middle ages.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWfWXHyxTUuSNhU2cgz8QgfQM6PuyiSbgzzlN3B4KwZqalH2lJCYirN3VB-jtWRWKUTC4xQgS_NsYuSocKssoBagBavrOpAS1glaG6pXwz46mS15Aj-XjWOqZpN4_rzNB3snXl1HR-w/s1600/monrichard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWfWXHyxTUuSNhU2cgz8QgfQM6PuyiSbgzzlN3B4KwZqalH2lJCYirN3VB-jtWRWKUTC4xQgS_NsYuSocKssoBagBavrOpAS1glaG6pXwz46mS15Aj-XjWOqZpN4_rzNB3snXl1HR-w/s1600/monrichard.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We sat on the banks of the river after lunch gazing over to the town and ancient bridge. Gary had a little nap on the grass. It was peaceful and pleasant.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI76CpDinNpNbKATuB1x7FWvg8fXScYy0Cuac_0fiHqz2W_ClXcjbOQ9oqL9oQ8YTVZmuJruEHbGpLfeEK9moE2JrrJkDtllg60jsG26HkPNdBKYqwR1uzLzPPgvbjBXWwUf1AFiszuA/s1600/bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI76CpDinNpNbKATuB1x7FWvg8fXScYy0Cuac_0fiHqz2W_ClXcjbOQ9oqL9oQ8YTVZmuJruEHbGpLfeEK9moE2JrrJkDtllg60jsG26HkPNdBKYqwR1uzLzPPgvbjBXWwUf1AFiszuA/s1600/bridge.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Then we were off to the charming <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_de_Cheverny" target="_blank">Château of Cheverny</a>. The claim to fame of this castle is that it was the inspiration for <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marlinspike_Hall" target="_blank">Marlinspike Hall</a>, the home of Captain Haddock in the Tin Tin books by Hergé. It has been in the same family for six centuries.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4axBx8SQFYvSU7552XV0_WdSNAvOrkNKix1x020He0EkEyUYpeUHICPYTmpVx1-Es-skkDgSTCnTTMxY9qTfUtq8WzAaEx0bmpJ_FgYimGC6mG5bSx9Ml-plR49yHeEetPObOYcGg9A/s1600/cheverny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4axBx8SQFYvSU7552XV0_WdSNAvOrkNKix1x020He0EkEyUYpeUHICPYTmpVx1-Es-skkDgSTCnTTMxY9qTfUtq8WzAaEx0bmpJ_FgYimGC6mG5bSx9Ml-plR49yHeEetPObOYcGg9A/s1600/cheverny.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It is fantastically decorated with lots of painted paneling<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmCMcCaoWz5NhZ_-QgSKLgl1Vh_VMKUYZjKmvtXEgoEYgZqMACHFygM-bCKq86lRN_au52eT7dyDwurue7tpo2-zJHmxXu1tcjZtsbO2HEoiivtYy4u_KoAeVvZwuAeb9vUzPzIefPJA/s1600/chevroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmCMcCaoWz5NhZ_-QgSKLgl1Vh_VMKUYZjKmvtXEgoEYgZqMACHFygM-bCKq86lRN_au52eT7dyDwurue7tpo2-zJHmxXu1tcjZtsbO2HEoiivtYy4u_KoAeVvZwuAeb9vUzPzIefPJA/s1600/chevroom.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
and ornate ceilings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EAseQD6VKZbdzZHMKGTrE9MTfkSIOMGQtmIgoBwYXWQ9HVIqoMqhm50fUTMnUYV33QTP1oY55ZxAD3BhnQy-K-fhijVL298uEo65qD3AXIvyW0VZzrNkB9hUvafhusVYBsaQQPQlzw/s1600/ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EAseQD6VKZbdzZHMKGTrE9MTfkSIOMGQtmIgoBwYXWQ9HVIqoMqhm50fUTMnUYV33QTP1oY55ZxAD3BhnQy-K-fhijVL298uEo65qD3AXIvyW0VZzrNkB9hUvafhusVYBsaQQPQlzw/s1600/ceiling.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It is still a private residence, so unlike many of the castles in the Loire, the furnishings are resplendent.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_h-V-K1p1-XlpsyDGfKaIKgHQMHOckF9aNWABZtzQIL0kAR6GMts4LN0KTwhVcjQBYTc6vagS9NjOOOJ-XQEAVrn2tGCMNGdCSpXQGmX875dlr7tZ7X8lOsW9Wbss8U___lsJP9R1w/s1600/margarchiv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_h-V-K1p1-XlpsyDGfKaIKgHQMHOckF9aNWABZtzQIL0kAR6GMts4LN0KTwhVcjQBYTc6vagS9NjOOOJ-XQEAVrn2tGCMNGdCSpXQGmX875dlr7tZ7X8lOsW9Wbss8U___lsJP9R1w/s1600/margarchiv.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The back garden is beautifully planted and maintained.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWHmvz_8JU_wzCTB7YI1cHXgURwvFva-aGmlihxmWwcTk_f1n3hDF8hhfCeF2_XNNK75JDD_Wz_kjwRxYBLjTM_ndfrmLDm4mBRQbl0kuDcHhhtzS738a44hLN9c6g5obk3C_DHFkJQ/s1600/backchev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWHmvz_8JU_wzCTB7YI1cHXgURwvFva-aGmlihxmWwcTk_f1n3hDF8hhfCeF2_XNNK75JDD_Wz_kjwRxYBLjTM_ndfrmLDm4mBRQbl0kuDcHhhtzS738a44hLN9c6g5obk3C_DHFkJQ/s1600/backchev.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
But our favorite feature has always been the kennels with many good old hound dogs. They are hunters. After our first visit I made an <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/43672012/the-happy-hounds?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">etching</a> of the animals sleeping on top of one another.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UlNuys64gZsYx-h0irdt_xYjTekWFJsLWeWWVruAmy4V0i79RURNVK-Uebf56x9ChznWC2klhyphenhyphenIfqGn0YkEkpLTIK9KcqiFYZh_dLRWvygu8nfEOp9yby5LCRwsiRmJ2nn0MQ7uhXw/s1600/dogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UlNuys64gZsYx-h0irdt_xYjTekWFJsLWeWWVruAmy4V0i79RURNVK-Uebf56x9ChznWC2klhyphenhyphenIfqGn0YkEkpLTIK9KcqiFYZh_dLRWvygu8nfEOp9yby5LCRwsiRmJ2nn0MQ7uhXw/s1600/dogs.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Now we're alone again, albeit with clients in the house but no long dinner conversations or excuses for trips to the Loire Valley, at least for a few more weeks. It has been such a pleasant way to begin this summer season.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3786196370552063376.post-28331695947235446592013-06-27T22:47:00.000+02:002013-06-27T22:47:42.888+02:00Roses, boutique and a picnic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkDPzbALGTwVh51tbL9qRfC5iZzKo-BtYzGg-p2B1_4eVGUcddlHc4RV1vuEq-GKAxElmni7Q9XGRoHK_Agf5sJWXRWl4r4IbvWLgf0DW8Z8cD92OZPzC_xTKOnLODAs99t3-Jjlmdtw/s1600/roses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkDPzbALGTwVh51tbL9qRfC5iZzKo-BtYzGg-p2B1_4eVGUcddlHc4RV1vuEq-GKAxElmni7Q9XGRoHK_Agf5sJWXRWl4r4IbvWLgf0DW8Z8cD92OZPzC_xTKOnLODAs99t3-Jjlmdtw/s1600/roses.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Hello summer...well mostly. It's not exactly sweltering over here but the roses are definitely in bloom both on the terrace and in the garden. This year the trellis is effulgent with three rose varieties all in their glory at this moment.<br />
<br />
Last year we discovered these lovely little purple geraniums for our terrace pot.The great thing about them is that besides blooming all season long, they come back. We were quite surprised to see them emerge again out of the frozen earth early in the spring. Once the sun came out, they grew like gang busters.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFvWy-jYwS8rsabXC7iJakfA6Bt0l3F30xdvk7sy5BJ-lSoP4smg010VnNlSxnA0au10qWIj4o_-cKFW2IL8cGwg0CgiOr7Tb_tHUecTWOvLDOiT4o_AwWvnuidhFts4WLcUMe74h_A/s1600/bee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFvWy-jYwS8rsabXC7iJakfA6Bt0l3F30xdvk7sy5BJ-lSoP4smg010VnNlSxnA0au10qWIj4o_-cKFW2IL8cGwg0CgiOr7Tb_tHUecTWOvLDOiT4o_AwWvnuidhFts4WLcUMe74h_A/s1600/bee.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I finally felt sure enough of the weather this week to set up the boutique for the season. This part of our garage/press room gets moist in the rain, so for me to put out my prints, I have to have some assurance that the sky is going to be mostly clear and the air mostly warm before I can open the shop. To dress the place up a bit I painted some wallpaper for the blank walls. I like the whimsy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvROxfPbnOV78ssoMjJMhuOk5X0cpf7hNe0BeKS2WEIvJia8LiKro8uONRtQDHYVcKISIuk-FIIj7UvfGZzs4ugttHCnMi6b_bVsj8uVEOu92ks5husI79C-ebkWbKKyF0ubKoTN1Rw/s1600/boutique.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvROxfPbnOV78ssoMjJMhuOk5X0cpf7hNe0BeKS2WEIvJia8LiKro8uONRtQDHYVcKISIuk-FIIj7UvfGZzs4ugttHCnMi6b_bVsj8uVEOu92ks5husI79C-ebkWbKKyF0ubKoTN1Rw/s1600/boutique.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
When Emily and family came for a brief visit recently, we took a day trip to our old stomping ground in <a href="http://visitnormandy.wordpress.com/2010/03/21/alpes-mancelles/" target="_blank">Les Alpes Mancelles</a> to see our neighbors the Tireaus, who remain our good friends.<br />
<br />
When we first moved to France we lived in a little mill on a small river in the middle of a forest. It is an utterly charming location and in the summer Emily produced <a href="http://nancy.wilson.free.fr/festival.html" target="_blank">a theater festival</a> in our local town. We have so many warm memories from this period of our lives.<br />
<br />
We sold the moulin in 2007 in order to purchase the Maison Conti but we go back from time to time. Currently, the moulin is changing hands again but at the moment is empty, so we were given permission to have our picnic there and do a little walking down memory lane. In truth an actual walk was a little difficult. One thing which has been neglected is the pruning. The place is like the jungle anyway, and if you don't keep up with cutting down the undergrowth, you are soon overwhelmed. This was once a trail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmx4S9CUd_QPpcnnXmDWdx7Bh9saog_Zzi1s7G9iu3PDM-Ry2jLuEg9RRikhUfpHLPV1gldnbQHWUnl8LTdUkjCLkmqG6ONF8Ex0J0Ee1YhC_7mHgIIwIBYSa-Pa5IcGqmL8PJ_oMAA/s1600/ribotjungle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmx4S9CUd_QPpcnnXmDWdx7Bh9saog_Zzi1s7G9iu3PDM-Ry2jLuEg9RRikhUfpHLPV1gldnbQHWUnl8LTdUkjCLkmqG6ONF8Ex0J0Ee1YhC_7mHgIIwIBYSa-Pa5IcGqmL8PJ_oMAA/s1600/ribotjungle.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
The Tireaus who live on the hill above the property brought a big table and we spread out our potluck luncheon, cooked hotdogs on the grill and picnicked on the terrace that were both fashioned by Rick eight years ago for Emily and Jos' wedding, which was held here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMJs0Vyg0ZuoeBkay7hQ56JVU0O4ygbZyNJz748mYZ95gEN_nyUzSiHDn8gwMt-bmCP9pgmSuCYZhaTE2X5JJQKDXA3D0xkOZRcX3YIoVmz1OinIjnIs45sqK-f03n2yAVYdxvboWpw/s1600/picnic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMJs0Vyg0ZuoeBkay7hQ56JVU0O4ygbZyNJz748mYZ95gEN_nyUzSiHDn8gwMt-bmCP9pgmSuCYZhaTE2X5JJQKDXA3D0xkOZRcX3YIoVmz1OinIjnIs45sqK-f03n2yAVYdxvboWpw/s1600/picnic.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
After lunch we took a walk around, bushwhacking all the way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhttWlypi7SLh4ZYpF5gu-9vDh3tSgYoMxJYgfWogdK5DMK4l8tCR027e2XwDJp3b1J7lXpXki0y4MVlQgv7aoecfmUcezV_ZgnF7RthjQ8iDzCFrBVhsV-XQDqMoxMyJJawvg-6YgGkQ/s1600/emzin+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhttWlypi7SLh4ZYpF5gu-9vDh3tSgYoMxJYgfWogdK5DMK4l8tCR027e2XwDJp3b1J7lXpXki0y4MVlQgv7aoecfmUcezV_ZgnF7RthjQ8iDzCFrBVhsV-XQDqMoxMyJJawvg-6YgGkQ/s1600/emzin+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The kids enjoyed the great outdoors including the river and forest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithY9YktzmPbgDMWMZ0ENJdgJp5kdCKKrDnMQib3pSZCeAhHjdVLld1_aCbxqH91b_tbuKWo7Kr-3ETrzolGJ0q9RkE6-8NgvATOntRVQ_DpNDKxU1crF55H3RDnFOeQOjASpt-_UIMg/s1600/ribotriver+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithY9YktzmPbgDMWMZ0ENJdgJp5kdCKKrDnMQib3pSZCeAhHjdVLld1_aCbxqH91b_tbuKWo7Kr-3ETrzolGJ0q9RkE6-8NgvATOntRVQ_DpNDKxU1crF55H3RDnFOeQOjASpt-_UIMg/s1600/ribotriver+.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
What was once a relatively manicured vegetable garden and orchard has become a wild place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigC4cCz25sdEOvHAEPDVyJHS47VHlbL726qqjhKQkMw2cRPHBZfjLcof0QnLHnmymlPWOGqZkIb5murgE4laV6XX8sQTukRLXxemlECyVWNJ2wMrA2eFNPtrVgmCfXpOFTtjFm8B4Ybw/s1600/ribotorchard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigC4cCz25sdEOvHAEPDVyJHS47VHlbL726qqjhKQkMw2cRPHBZfjLcof0QnLHnmymlPWOGqZkIb5murgE4laV6XX8sQTukRLXxemlECyVWNJ2wMrA2eFNPtrVgmCfXpOFTtjFm8B4Ybw/s1600/ribotorchard.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Rick brought along our game of <a href="http://www.molkky.com/" target="_blank">Mölkky,</a> made for us by our friend <a href="http://ateliermaisonconti.blogspot.fr/2011/05/week-49-game-pair-of-friends-and-three.html" target="_blank">Arnault</a>. It is like bowling but involves some tricky rules when it comes to scoring points. It's a bit of a math puzzle meets hand/eye coordination skill. I am particularly bad at it on both counts but in three games played, men against women, the women won two. We were proud.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSgBHbrVWBAlyVJawbppNOOSe1q4fZOPtgN3V-ThFbQHbA3-w6LfINVVF3q91QrQQbK9e33ot05OE-CdqNgdUz67j75j83DwHDqW2URi8jbtsXtx8l4DMYXZDA6kIRSdA9Sjz0vcnaKA/s1600/mulky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSgBHbrVWBAlyVJawbppNOOSe1q4fZOPtgN3V-ThFbQHbA3-w6LfINVVF3q91QrQQbK9e33ot05OE-CdqNgdUz67j75j83DwHDqW2URi8jbtsXtx8l4DMYXZDA6kIRSdA9Sjz0vcnaKA/s1600/mulky.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Before heading back home we stopped by the Tireau's house to see the animals. Quinn visited the hen house and collected eggs and met Zouk the donkey<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgy0KtzXWsjXZNqYIsaFzkHKmh6fwdeeUqcYQAD-s8qsEq5pAGSeQfnCv4t32wA9zGhMCFxDIixS1l7W8XWAwetfNfa4OWz49XwmubnIsvRohuTW1tBaI_L1mHbiHon5fKgQbmxWa7qA/s1600/zoukeggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgy0KtzXWsjXZNqYIsaFzkHKmh6fwdeeUqcYQAD-s8qsEq5pAGSeQfnCv4t32wA9zGhMCFxDIixS1l7W8XWAwetfNfa4OWz49XwmubnIsvRohuTW1tBaI_L1mHbiHon5fKgQbmxWa7qA/s1600/zoukeggs.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Emily and Anita collected some rhubarb and lettuce.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWiYkB08Oyu4PsJiPD6pBvlRWDLW4FUqKWknsz-fYp68_g6R48rIVuY7D7L4Hy0HOSJLZlqIhmwlMtvz0V0ObpO5s-W5E3ARZwv4bwDNDMTblWmG3bOSucMyl-ZnpKlM8otBcmJU2vw/s1600/pickingrhu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWiYkB08Oyu4PsJiPD6pBvlRWDLW4FUqKWknsz-fYp68_g6R48rIVuY7D7L4Hy0HOSJLZlqIhmwlMtvz0V0ObpO5s-W5E3ARZwv4bwDNDMTblWmG3bOSucMyl-ZnpKlM8otBcmJU2vw/s1600/pickingrhu.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2