Remi and I were walking through Disneyland Paris. Night had just fallen. We were tired and tripping over our feet, trying to weave through the crowds. Suddenly the loud speakers barked out an announcement: “Please welcome Princess Aurora and her court!” White lights tracked to a stage that was instantly filled with dancers dressed in full Louis XIV regalia. The music began to swell.
“I know you, I walked with you once upon a dream…I know you, that gleam in your eyes seems so familiar to me…”
Despite myself, I started to sway in the dark, embarassed at first at my sentimental behaviour. Then I gave in and drank down the memories from long ago, covered by the shadows cast by a too full moon. For childhood still lives in us if we let it. We all know this. The capacity to wonder…by beauty so close it is a second skin…
To let our hearts open and open and open….
I hope that you have enjoyed this second set of photos of Aix-en-Provence. It is no Disneyland, it is a real, bustling town but it can have the same effect for an adult like me. Both are most certainly worth the visit, for we all need to let ourselves dream now and again…
HA! Heather, just figured out why I couldn't "Follow" your Blog…I was on Mozilla Firefox. Simply wouldn't work. I think you've tried twice for me but you're still not showing up, so try Google Chrome. Worked for me (finally) hope it works for you!
I'm so happy to have found your blog! I consider Arles to me my favorite town in France. Beautiful photos.
What an absolutely beautiful writer you are.
Real life Disneyland.. Ain't France the best.. Carla
I know exactly that feeling – it's like a sweet spot when it overtakes you – the childlike wonder and appreciation for the moment!! And I ADORE Aix – we were there 3 years ago when my son was spending a semester in the beautiful city. I could have stayed much longer – as could have he!!
Sister, hmm…it brought tears to my eyes what you wrote. I love you!
Disneyland – what a great place to get in touch with your inner child! Dad certainly was in touch with his; that's one trait we are happy to have passed down! And thanks for reminding me when I am down, down, down to open open open… : )
La Contessa, have you forgotten that it was I who gave you restaurant advice for your last trip to the Santa Cruz area? 🙂 And yes, of course you would appreciate the same sights! The house with the red door is opposite the Musee Granet. It seems to be pretty much perfect.
Thank you, Brooke. And yes, too much actually but that would really be missing the point. In Provence, the most important thing is to not rush, not to try and do too much. Just appreciate where you are and then have a glass of rosé (or vice versa). Hopefully, this will be a first but not a last. Bisous.
What a beautiful post, Heather.
I wonder if all design obsessed people do the same thing…imagine how they would decorate the beautiful houses that they pass by?
We will have so much to do when I come in the summer.
xo xo
Brooke
I think I have a couple of the same photos from AIX!That house with the red door for certain!I must go dig out my photos!The dolphin fountain for sure!What a beautiful spot.
What a small world……I have bought from Johan and company in the past.Of course, none of their goods go to the shop but right into my little abode!They do have a good eye….and such nice people!I once had an appointment with them at the side of the freeway to collect more CROWNS!