Wednesday, July 23, 2008

fresh morning, free afternoon


They watch "Back to the Future" even in France! The classic child-of-the-80's movie series is alive and well here. Of course, it seems that foreign lands love the America of the 1980's anyway, so it should not surprise me to find such movies around this house. What a pleasant surprise and a good flick for a hot afternoon.

However, the day did not start off so smoothly. I went for a morning bikeride to Vauvenargues (the petite village where lies the Chateau de Picasso), only to hear a sudden spree of air bursting from my deflating tire. Yes, I had to run all 5.5km back, alongside the bike and uphill. I couldn't help but laugh because I woke up this morning with a heightened sense of adventure and longing to see something new, to take in a fresh breath of life...
It only took about 24 seconds for the tire to deflate completely, offering me the opportunity to experience the countryside as never before...beside a bike rather than on it. However distressing it could have been, it was quite pleasant and I rather enjoyed the view at a slower pace.

I read my french cookbook today, taking in fresh ideas and salivating at the massive amount of vegetables used in French Gastronomie (French cooking). It is remarkable. Some of my new favorites to eat every day are certainly zucchini, tomatoes, and green beans. I have actually taken a liking to peas now. They actually enhance the taste of pastq, when prepared correctly. Try adding a little dark green to your plate at every meal. It will work wonders for your body, for your health, for your skin. Trust me.

And, speaking of health, there are Pharmacies on virtually every corner here. Truthfully, there is a flourescent green plus-sign on nearly every roundabout in this petite ville. So, when I was in the Pharmacie, I discovered a new product that is supposed to remove cellulite from the body. You will never guess what it is: a pair of shoes! Yes, a pair of Chinese looking shoes made of wood supposedly rids the body of toxic cellulite. I am waiting for the pencil that is a sunless tanning lotion everytime you write with it.

Along the lines of all things Chinese, I went to a petite Asian store here in France this afternoon. I must admit that it was quite the joke to hear an Asian woman only speak French. The proprietàire (store owner) did not know any Asian languages. She was French through and through...except for her eyes. I did buy a kimono, though. Made with the most brilliant shades of crulean blue and shimmering gold, I feel royal when I tie the sash around my waist. With my hands in the pure silk pockets and my arms wrapped in the pure silk sleeves, how could I not buy it?

The Asian store was situated along a road new to me as of today. I decided to venture out a little, and well, I am certainly thrilled that I did. There are more people my age in this part of the little town and it is less enflated by tourism. I will certainly be heading to the Rue Cordeliers more often.

I know I told you that we were going to the zoo today, but the plans changed. We will be heading to the zoo perhaps Friday, when the temperature is not quite as hot. Tomorrow, the boys and I are headed to Cassis, and Stéphane is going to help me plan my trip to Nice and St. Tropez. Laetita and Stéphane both have encouraged me to take the mini-car for a long weekend and just travel around the area. They are becoming more gracious. I am just filled with awe that He keeps granting me more favor with this family. They are more gracious with each new day. Then again, so is He.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Sorry to hear about your flat tire...everything happens for a reason! You got to enjoy the beauty of the countryside! Can't wait to hear about your adventure around the area. Love you tons, Mom

P.S. What sizes do those Chinese shoes come in?