Tuesday, June 01, 2010

Memories of a Wonderful Day


Three years ago my husband and I went to Europe. We planned it for years and had the most wonderful time. Of all the memories, one day in Provence stands out as absolutely perfect.

We rented a motor scooter and took off with a very sketchy map, no knowledge of French driving rules, and a lot of courage. Our goal...


...the Pont du Gard. And we found it! No problem at all. French signage was really very clear and we had no troubles enroute. It may have helped that we learned a bit of crazy driving while living in Ecuador.

This is an awesome place. I couldn't help think of the soldiers who tramped over it, of the history they'd seen - perhaps some of them had been in Palestine and had seen Jesus or the disciples. The history boggles the mind.


It was a very hot and muggy day. We brought along our swimming suits and took a refreshing swim in the river. Can't you just imagine the soldiers and workers cooling off in the same spot?


We spent the afternoon riding through Provence on the motor scooter. Fragrances of lavender and olive trees rushed against our faces. Fruity orchards beckoned. Lovely warm air slid over our skin. It was absolutely marvelous. I could have ridden all day.


In the evening we returned to our small hotel in the old walled city of Avignon, just in time for a fierce thunderstorm. Pounding rain, lightning flashes and afterwards, the sweet smell of earth refreshed by water.

It's no secret that I'm a francophile. Paris was all that I'd dreamed of, and I'd happily go back there anytime. But this one day among all the days of our three-week trip stands out. It was more than sightseeing - it was an adventure!

I'm linking to Le Chateau de Fleurs French Obsession Party for June 1 and am looking forward to seeing more of all things French.

16 comments:

  1. That sounds like the most wonderful day possible, dear Lorrie! Happy memory. I hope you get to return one day!

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  2. Anonymous10:46 AM

    Thanks for coming over my way...and as my daughter and I were wandering around the Governors house we thought it would be a fantastic back drop for wedding photos....especially in summer! I am going to go poke around your blog...see ya!

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  3. Anonymous10:49 AM

    Reminds me of the movie, Under the tuscan sun....

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  4. Sounds like a perfect day! You were brave to explore on a motor cycle. LOL We've spent time in the south of France, so your photos brought back some fond memories of time spent in that area. Thank you for sharing. ~ Sarah

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  5. Wonderful pictures of a perfect day, which you made sound perfect, too, just in case you've ever wondered if you can write. No worries! And the best part of the day is the memories for you can relive your adventure over and over again. Thank you for sharing that time with us!

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  6. Such a beautiful part of France.

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  7. WOW Beautiful post, writing and pictures :)
    LOVE it!
    Thank you for linking up to French Obsession :)
    XOXO
    Frenchy

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  8. Your trip sounds wonderful! I really want to got to Provence some day! I am French obsessed, too! I see that you live on Vancouver Island. My husband & I vacationed there 7 years ago & loved it, especially the rugged West coast!

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  9. What an awesome method of traveling through Provence. I got to go to France last summer and spent some time in Avignon too. Stunningly beautiful!
    Hugs N Herbal Blessings, Mandyc

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  10. It sounds like the perfect place to visit...and re-visit. We were in France once...for a few hours. So I think there is likely lots more to see!

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  11. Hi Lorrie,
    I know how much you love France so here's an open invitation to call in at the Presbytere and stay a while next time you come to Normandy.
    a bientot
    Maggie

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  12. Hello Lorrie - You and your husband have such interesting adventures...fields of lavender - say no more - but a bicycle would suit me better! Thanks for sharing your memories...

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  13. Wow. What an adventure!! Thank you for sharing. This is so sweet and inspirational, and an adventure of a lifetime.

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  14. Hi Lorrie,

    Happy 55 years to your parents. They look so young!

    O.K, your day in Provence sounds like something out of a fairy tale. It truly was an adventure. The pictures are great. You look very happy in the water.

    big hugs,
    Barb

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  15. What a wonderful memory. I just love good ones!

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  16. A cool swim, the scent of lavender and olive trees, and history... can't imagine a better combination.

    :) Christi

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Thank you for your comment. I read and value each one, cherishing the connections we can make although far apart. Usually, I visit your blog in return, although if you ask a question I try to contact you directly.

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