Medieval Magic

Daniel arrives in Monflanquin in time for the annual Medieval Festival.  We are similar in many ways.  He fits into my sweat shirt and other apparel. We share the same opinion about many people we know.

And he eats dark chocolate every day like his mother.

Costumed to celebrate the day. Above the door, the grapes grow fatter, but still not sweet enough for snacking.

My cousins from Israel with Daniel's friends and their adorable baby.

Baby Elenor got her first tooth here in Monflanquin.She did not suffer silently.

I am looking at about two weeks left of my stay. A dear friend will visit the last week of August.  Thinking about priorities, there are a few more  sweet people to see. More time will be spent in the pool. Delicious French cheese will be eaten and amazingly fresh produce enjoyed.  I cannot duplicate my village life style at home. The uniqueness and charm of the place do not translate. Most of all I will miss my friends and the ease of conversation and conviviality.  The  surround sound French  will be sadly absent.  Planning my next stint in the village is the only way to cope with the loss.

And the Medieval Beat goes on..........

Petite Excursion a Villereal

 A new coffee shop opened a few weeks ago in Villereal.  To my delight, it is called Maggie's, though my Maggy's name ends in a "y"
Maggie's coffee shop is more English than French.   I love its shabby chic decor and comfortable cushioned chairs.  The story goes that the coffee shop's namesake Maggie encouraged an apprehensive young English couple wanting to move to France to take the risk and helped them every step of the way.  Now the coffee shop stands as a tribute to this lovely woman who recently passed away. It makes me think about all the people in my life who encourage me every step of the way and for them I am grateful. It's the little things isn't it? The neighbor here who offers to lend me warm clothes as the weather has turned chilly.  (It wont' last.) The artist in the village museum who invites me over when she learns I  do collage.  The fruit seller who wants to be sure the delicate fruit won't be crushed......

Bookshelves of French and English books
hug the coffee shop walls. Also board games and coloring books.

 I will be back!!!