It constantly amazes me how quickly two months pass. It seems in the dead of winter each month is dreadfully long and feels interminable. In contrast, the summer functions the complete opposite. It is never long enough and ends too quickly. These two months in Provence are always racing by even though I try to notice and be present for each moment.
Villedieu
On my last day, I was taking in the view while I was out for a cycle. While in Provence, it seems so normal to see such beautiful sights every day, they are present wherever you go. So I was trying to hold on to the moment, knowing within a few short hours it would only be a memory. These are grand memories, but my heart wishes I could be in this place always. I truly feel so much healthier in my heart, body and mind. It is the right place for me.
In spite of this, I am grateful for every minute I’ve been able to be here. As the years have passed, I can say my friendships have blossomed and I feel so lucky to know the people I do. They have not only introduced me to even more people but have constantly made me feel at home.
I am lucky to have met a couple from New Zealand years ago who so kindly store my bike and goodies all winter long. K1 and K2 are fellow cyclists and have a zest for life and Provence. I have learned so much from them. Of course, there is Henri & Jean-Francois at Clos de Caveau. I have been living at “Chez Paula” for a decade now. I have watched Henri’s kids grow into amazing adults and shared so many meals together, they feel like family. Every year I am welcomed with such warmth, it brings me to tears to leave. They have introduced me to so many people, many who have become very dear friends like Tracy and Chuck whose company I never get enough of.
And this year I was introduced to a whole new group of winemakers in the Ventoux. We are working towards a project together and meeting even more people has made me feel I must be here for a reason. They are kind, passionate and wonderful people that I hope to get to know even better over the years.
So thank you to all of you. You have included me, introduced me and expanded my life in France. You have made my heart full. It wouldn’t be the same without any of you, and I thank my lucky stars constantly for the crazy luck I’ve had. My heart aches to leave Provence again, and cannot wait to be back again. Bisous.
