I’ve had a good week. I hit another milestone, planted my balcony garden, hosted my first apéro, watched a beautiful yet confusing parade and more. And we had sun!
Visa requirements
I’ve now been here for 8 months and have hit all my administrative milestones to date. This week I had my appointment for the physical exam I need for my visa. I took the bus to Montpellier and found the clinic with no trouble. Apparently the tests that are run depend on the prevalence of illnesses in the country you come from. For example, someone coming from a country where there is a lot of tuberculosis is required to have a chest x-ray. My exam consisted only of answering some questions (yay Canada!) and I passed with flying colours.
Treasured connections
I enjoyed a couple of video calls this week with friends and family in Canada. And I spent quality time with friends here in France, including two friends who drove from north of Toulouse for an overnight visit.
Mary and Yvonne each own homes in a village in the Midi-Pyreness. They arrived here in the early afternoon and we got caught up over lunch on my balcony before wandering around town. Over dinner, there was much wine and even more laughter. The next morning, we had croissants and coffee on a patio before they left for home and I hopped on the bus for my appointment in Montpellier. I treasure connections like this!
Aperitifs
On Thursday, I hosted my first apéro – a French gathering that usually occurs from 5-7 pm and consists of appetizers and wine. I invited several Canadians and one honorary Canadian and I have to admit – I was nervous!
I was reminded of my mom who often told me that she was an anxious host. This was a direct contradiction to the way she was described by people who visited our home. I’ve heard many say that they loved coming to our house because my mom was so warm and inviting.
My apéro went well, of course. Food and wine, good conversation and laughter with friends – how could it not? It was so wonderful to entertain in my new apartment this week and I look forward to many more such evenings. I also want the reputation of a warm and welcoming host.
Balcony garden
It was finally nice enough to plant my garden this week. I made several trips to Jardiland, the plant store which is my happy place. I hauled home soil and supplies and plants that I hope will thrive on my sunny balcony. The balcony is beautiful and especially lovely in the morning as I listen to the birds singing. I hit the jackpot with this apartment!
Venice in France?
Last Saturday, one of the streets in town had what was essentially a garage sale. And, true to form for Pézenas, there was a parade. The costumes were handmade and gorgeous and, for some inexplicable reason, Venetinan. I asked around but no one really had an explanation. This town has flare, that’s for sure!
Song of the week
This song popped into my head this week. I treasure my friendships.
À bientôt .
What a wonderful song to cap off your wonderful week! I love that you have so many connections in your new home. That’s so amazing. Your balcony looks absolutely marvelous! What a wonderful space!
Thanks Jenn!
You have settled in very well, Sue, and appear to be very comfortable in your new life. I’m wondering if you have met [names removed]…..a lovely couple originally from BC who moved to France permanently a number of years ago.
We had a huge snowstorm a couple of days ago so we are digging out of 3 feet of snow. Hopefully it’s the last!
I’m off to Victoria BC next Tuesday for 3 weeks. I do this every year. I’ll be seeing green grass, spring flowers and pink cherry blossoms…..
I have met them and enjoyed their company the other night. I’ve removed their names from your comment to protect their privacy.
What an uplifting post! Friends, a party, flowers, and a stunning, vibrant parade all rolled into one week. I love the photo of the three of you.
How lovely that Mary and Eleanor made the drive to see you. I wish I could have been a fourth face! The parade is visually phenomenal, and one can sense the musical joy emanating from the wooden wind instruments.
Your balcony garden looks alluring. Does your Jewels of Opar (?) give off a fragrance? May the sun keep smiling (I wish it would here), and may you continue these inspiriting events.
Au Québec, ce que tu appelles dans ton texte un apéro, on appelle ça un 5 à 7. Ce serait Intéressant de voir avec les Français s’ils connaissent aussi cette expression.