Bells and Birds

I'm home. 

Back from the South of France where time stands still.

There is something so special about being in a country with so much history, 

where stories linger in the tall grasses and ancient walls.

We stayed in a place called La Casquade in Durfort, France.

It's like a 400 year old condo nestled between grassy mountains 

with a river running through.

 

It is known for the old ways of making copper, slowly.

 

Every hour on the hour, this church bell would ring. 

A deep melancholy sound that resonated within my heart.

 

This was our backyard, our view. A constant flow of energy.

We traveled every second day taking in the breathtaking vistas, castles and churches.

We spent the day at the Lautrec Art Museum 

which was one of my highlights of the trip. 

Seeing this art filled up my soul and reminded me how much art matters.

 

As beautiful as it all was, I have to admit that I grew terribly homesick. 

There is nothing like slowing it all down to realize just how much 

your heart yearns for the ones you love.

 

Bells and birds are what I heard for seven days.

Bread, wine and cheese filled my belly every night.

Homemade gourmet dishes made by Nesha nurtured my body.

Group meditation before dinner nurtured my spirit.

Sharing stories nurtured my heart. 

"Arting" late into the night nurtured all the above.

 

Thank-you to Mary Beth Shaw and John Shaw for being such kind and gracious hosts.

Your friendships mean so much to me. You are such good peeps!

It was a delight to meet new friends as well; 

Sharon, Carolyn, Pat, Greg, Catherine and Eric.

And of course, time spent with bestie Mindy Lacefield is always precious (Love you).

The South of France taught me the following:

Take a breath.

Eat slowly.

Listen to the birds.

Our stories matter.

Take more walks.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder.

Listen.

Repeat.