Forty weeks! Forty weeks of joy and excitement, of great effort, fatigue and growing pains. It’s as if I’m birthing my dreams. In this week’s blog, I provide an update on first year administrative tasks, reflect on a mental challenge I had with last Sunday’s big antique sale and post some photos of its eclectic treasures, and celebrate Mother’s Day.
Administrative tasks
I’ve had a fairly quiet week. My driver’s license arrived in the mail, another first-year administrative task complete. And I’m back to pulling together my documents for my Titre de Séjour or visa renewal. I set it aside a couple of weeks ago because I was frustrated, but I have to submit by the end of the month so I need to get focused again.
Not long after I arrived, someone mentioned that the first year is administrative-heavy. It hasn’t been too bad, but I’ll be happy when I can move on from it. I think the Titre de Séjour is the final piece.
Antiques Sale
Twice a year, Pézenas holds a large antiques sale with more than 200 dealers setting up shop in the streets. After my first experience in October, I couldn’t wait for its return last Sunday. And it was great to share the experience with a friend who was visiting from Toulouse.
Interestingly, I found myself doing some mental gymnastics in the week leading up to the sale. My thought process went something like this: If I spend a lot of money on a piece of furniture that I can’t live without, does that mean I’m here to stay? And why am I thinking I’m not? I was considering both the expense and an emotional connection to something that might catch my eye.
Most days, I assume I’m here for the long haul, but there are days when other options cross my mind. The thought of buying a large, expensive item seemed to indicate that I was jumping solidly over a line and it felt a bit unnerving. In the end, I only bought a ceramic pot, but it was interesting to notice where my mind went.
The sale and all its eclectic glory did not disappoint, in spite of a very rainy day. From kitsch to wood carvings, from ceramics to furniture to cast iron soldiers, there were treasures galore. Here are some photos.
Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is celebrated on different dates around the world. In France, it’s not until the end of May. In Canada, it’s tomorrow.
My mom has been gone for over 18 years. I think of her often, but never more than when I’m choosing plants. She loved gardening, especially flowers, and I would dearly love to be able to show her the beautiful blooms I see here every day.
There is a hedge of passion flowers not far from my apartment that is extraordinary. She would love these intricate blooms. The photos are in honour of my mom. ♥️
Happy Mother’s Day!
À bientôt .
Sue, I love your blog.
Thanks!
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Hi Sue! Oh that’s why I keep hearing “push, push!” LOL Another great blog!
Happy 40th week to you. You’re living a great life and it’s neat to hear your experiences on your posts.
As always, I love reading about your journey. The brocante looks so interesting- how fascinating to browse through all the unique pieces. The passion flower is gorgeous.