It's Still Life

I. Mussels and frites. I love.love.love them, and I’d be really thankful if I ate them more often. French beer, too, and I’m not one to drink very often (maybe a glass of wine on my birthday and a wee glass of champagne at New Years) but French beer is really good. And icy cold, unlike British ale.

II. I am thankful for respect of history. And roads paved with Setts (quarried granite chiseled into squares) because it is so much easier for me to walk down hills. Cobblestone, which are river stones and smoothed by water, and tough on ankles and knees — are those with sight issues. (Dinan, France)

III. Thankful for tinned French sardines. Bought a lot to bring home. Lemon and olive oil, chilli and olive oil, green peppercorn and olive oil. Can’t wait to open a tin. 

IV. He was very happy with his choice of dessert, and I was thankful that he looked so pleased. 

V. Thankful that the weather held for the most part until we were due to leave St Malo, and goodness me, what a storm blew in. 

VI. Thankful to see Rouen Cathedral again. It’s a beautiful place full of history (often tragic).

Glad that I caught Peder walking to the main entrance as it gives an idea of the scale and perspective. 

VII. How did people in the 12th century build such an amazing structure?! I am always amazed by their abilities — we think we are so clever and advanced now.

I am thankful that these beautiful structures are still with us. 

VIII. Thankful that I caught this lovely man concentrating on carving a piece of wood.

His dog was asleep under the table, and woke when I spoke to the man. I didn’t buy anything, but I did give him money to buy a lovely lunch and a treat for his dog.

IX. Thankful to spend time with this beautiful painting called Enigma by Alfred Agache (1888). It is huge, from floor to ceiling, and just stunning.

I am thankful for art. 

X. Bees. Bees! Thankful.