Sorry to say, I neglected to take any photos of the airports, buses, and trains and train stations that made up my Sunday night and most of Monday trip. But I am pleased to say that it all went far more smoothly than I feared it would. The flights from Boston to Rekjavik and from Rekjavik to Paris were boring, but without any hassle. I found my AirFrance shuttle bus to Gare de Lyon amazingly easily. I had a very long wait at Gare de Lyon, because I had planned in time for getting lost and not being able to find bus, taxi, or donkey to transport me. But people-watching is one of my favorite activities, so I amused myself well. The TGV train from Gare de Lyon to Le Creusot was comfortable, and Margaret was there to meet me at the station with her car and to drive me to Verguilleux. I was very tired, but the adrenaline rush of being reunited with wonderful friends kept me going through settling in, having dinner, and talk talk talking till almost midnight. So good to be back here!

On Tuesday we stayed at “home” most of the day, spent time in the studio – right away! get to the important things first!!- had lunch by the pool, went swimming, talked and talked while lying in the sun. In the evening, Fabienne hosted a dinner at the CulturCafe for about 15 people. Excellent food – mostly prepared by Fabienne, but some of the guests also contributed. I knew a few people from previous trips, but met many new people. Some spoke only French, some only English, some both, and some spoke Chinese, too. I did use a little of my elementary French, but mostly for comic effect. There were enough English speakers to keep me occupied. I am hoping that my French will improve on this trip. I have to say, I was thrilled beyond all reason when someone said, “Dans la cuisine.” and I realized that I understood it! “In the kitchen.” One small step for world understanding, one very huge step for Debi.

On Wednesday morning we shopped at the outdoor Market in Charolles, buying fish, veggies, watches, and clothes. Lunch was by the pool, as are most of our meals while the weather is stunningly beautiful – warm, but not hot, no humidity, clear bright blue skies. Then Margaret and I went to Paray-le-Monial. She had her haircut while I wandered about. We saw a mosaic and ceramic exhibit – very akin to collage, I think. Inspiring. Went to the cathedral – beautiful stained glass windows, surprisingly modern chandeliers and some very contemporary small art panels. Sorry, I didn’t get any photos of these. Margaret and I scored some very fine fabric remnants from a shop – neither of us use fabric in our works very much, but the inspiration called and we are answering. Went to an art shop and bought watercolor paper for cutting into small supports for art-while-traveling. Bought lemon tarts and raspberry tarts for after dinner dessert. Went back home and took a swim. Then I prepared roasted veggies, Margaret made fish, and we ate by the pool as it grew dark and cooler – it was so lovely – full moon – that we got jackets and stayed. Later we returned to the house and looked at the photos we all took turns taking for this blog – with much laughter. Then they showed me the video of their 50th Anniversary Party that took place here a few weeks ago – marvelous!!

I’m still not falling asleep at the right time – staying awake past midnight – but I’m still feeling great – probably the excitement of all this is giving me energy. Well, enough for now. A bientot.