These last years have been a challenge for all of us, a challenge for the entire world in fact. And things continue to be uncertain, so we can take nothing for granted. It’s been a long time since Les Trois Canadiennes have been able to meet up or go on a trip together. But even in these unreliable times, magical things can happen.

As it turned out, Elspeth would be in France for work in July, and I would be in France by the end of June. We hadn’t even really put it together in our minds when we realized – Les Trois Canadiennes would be in France all at the same time. What a gift! We made some plans, which given the state of things, were promptly changed of course, but we rolled with the punches.

Elspeth and Didi had a few days together touring around Chambèry, and then everyone traipsed down to Provence. I found a gorgeous little hotel/spa for us to rest our weary bodies and minds, Le Clos Saint Michel. It was a superb respite. Didi had to return to Chambèry, but Elspeth was here to see the lavender. So we did a big trip through the Drôme, wandering on tiny country back roads dotted with beautiful fields of lavender, and endless pretty villages, finishing in Sault with lavender ice cream. We were so lucky; only a few days later, when I returned by bike, 90 percent was harvested. We had several picnics, lots of rosés, some delicious meals out, and a lot of laughs. It was very short but outrageously sweet. We collectively cannot wait for our next adventure together.

Aside from all this fun activity, it’s been a busy few weeks. I’ve finally met a friend in person who previously I’ve only known on social media. Katie is a delight, and I am so glad to have connected. She’s been in this area part-time for a while now, so we have a lot to discuss, mutual friends and information to share, especially about where to get good pizza. We’ve met for apéro a few times and gone on a bike ride. I am looking forward to more of that in the future.

And finally, I’ve been relieved of my cat-sitting duties earlier than anticipated. The good news is this meant I got to spend unexpected time with my friends before they head out again. Today we had a delightful Sunday cycle (before it was +38 degrees) followed by a luxurious dip in the neighbour’s refreshing pool and finished with a spectacular lunch of gorgeous local fresh produce.

While we appear to be stuck in some sort of vortex of heat (the opposite of the Polar Vortexes that often consume Canada in the winter and I must say, far more pleasant), I’ve been enjoying every bit of it. These dog days of summer have been made much grander with all the wonderful people I get to share this stunning place with. I am as grateful as ever for such a beautiful life.

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