Odds and Ends

Warm sunny spot for a sack lunch along the Canal

Had a lovely encounter this morning with Michel and his wife.  They've got a new apprentice, which speaks volumes about his willingness and sense of continuity and love of his metier, to want to pass it along to another generation.  I think that may be one definition of a good life--to have loved the work one has done, enough to want that same skill set to be passed to another generation.  Nelly wants my recipe for pumpkin cake--apparently it was quite the hit. I am very humbled by her request, because she is a fabulous cook.

Just an average day in the streets here

Continuing on my way to the post office, I could hear the unmistakable sounds of live music.  A band of red-suited, white shoe-d players were playing some "big band" music.  People were scurrying by, traffic was pulling out onto Rue Verdun in front of them.  Just a normal workday.  And there they were, making music.  It would have been harder to make my day any brighter, but they plastered quite the grin on my face.

I finished reading my new friend John Honney's book, Always in Motion.  He is my UK neighbor, missing one leg and this book details his running of the London, Chicago, Boston, Berlin and New York Marathons.  He's funny and honest and inspirational.  I am so sorry that he and Catherine will be leaving here for either Geneva or London in a week's time.  I think that might be one of the downsides of an expat community--people are always in transit.  

Dig the shoes!

Everyone here is abuzz with the first round election results.  One of the writers whose blog I read daily likened the FN (Marine LePen's National Front) to totalitarianism.  Next round coming up will be the defining round.  I probably could be deported should the FN gain total power, as the main plank in their platform is NO immigrants, especially non-whites.  Oh yes, and she hates Americans.  But I will worry about that bridge if and when it comes up.  I think much of  this extreme-right sentiment is a reaction to the bombings in Paris. 

Took a great walk in the warm sunshine this morning.  It's been mild and pleasant and I didn't even wear a jacket, just long sleeves.  I probably could have used my hoodie, as the ever-present wind did go through the two layers rather easily.  But oh, the sun was warm and comforting.  I will take another spin outside this afternoon as well--I have half a quiche waiting for me at the Rabats' and some breadcrumbs to feed to the muskrats.  Reading and writing await me after dinner.  How did I ever manage to get anything done when I was working? 

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