Southern people are southern people, whether you live below the Mason Dixon line in America or south of Lyon in France. There is an air of accuelliance (welcoming) that immediately eases the nerves of passers-by. There is a smile that enlivens the whole body, a wave that not only says hello, but says "if you ever need anything, please don't hesitate to ask me for help," and a demeanor that freshens the air of conversation. South of anywhere, you find jovial people who live to define the classic phrase "joie de vivre" so often attributed to them. Perhaps that is my favorite part of being here: experiencing the best of the south.
Laura and I attended yet another barbeque this afternoon, this time with her family. To no avail, we searched the grande market this morning for some fresh flowers to bring as a gift, only to discover that the vendors had already sold out. But, upon our arrival, the luring scent of Kebabs and mozzarella & tomato-basil salad began a lazy afternoon full of genial conversation and oodles of laughter. Believe it or not, I sincerely enjoyed a coffee-flavored layered dessert. Disclaimer: the term "homemade" in France is the equivalent to "gourmet" in the USA, so keep that in mind when I tell you that I enjoyed something coffee-flavored. An exuberant spirit of conviviality lingered in the shade of the family's backyard and I left with a heart overflowing with gratitude.
Thank you, Laura, for a wonderful weekend.
PS. Happy Birthday, Aunt Gena! Go for the barbeque. It's all good.
1 comment:
Bar-B-Ques are some of the fondest memories I have...Going to Lake Jordan after church on Sunday, Bond Park along with kite flying, the backyard deck, graduation parties! I'm glad you've made some new friends. Thank you for sharing it with us! I'm praying for you. Much Love, Mom
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