A little Monday sized post to send some warmth to whomever needs it. According to my friend Debra at Acquired Objects, spring is not yet in full bloom everywhere despite her early advances.
I never take the light for granted in Provence but it still can surprise me in its depth and variations.
These two buildings are just off the Rhone in Arles. Sadly, they are always closed up. For me, they are far too lovely to not be lived in but apparently the owner doesn’t agree.
I find such beauty in the patina of paint and lime wash scraped away by hard winds and time’s wings.
Even in the shadows, I felt the heat of red and gold searing out of the stones.
Wishing everyone a lovely week ahead. More soon when my pollen dusted head is in less of a muddle!
Thank you so much for your kind, kind words! And you will see, a week here will pass in the blink of an eye…
St. Remy is an excellent base for a trip to Provence! As you are coming with another couple, I would especially recommend the idea of renting a house. October is still a beautiful month here and you can definitely still have lunch outside and maybe even dinner. Having your own home will put you into the "real" Provence.
PS – Your photography is breathtaking. You have such an eye for framing the pictures. We can't wait to spend an entire, glorious week in your beautiful Provence!
My husband and I are excitedly planning our week in Provence for early October. We are coming with another couple and looking at using St Remy as our stay for the week and then taking day trips from there. We would love to meet you for a glass of wine or coffee or whatever while we are there. Your Mom sends her love.
Just simply beautiful! As much as I love the limestone buildings in our region – but I also love, love the terracotta and ocker colors, reflecting the light.
xxxkarin
Thanks everyone! Clare, I really appreciated all of your recent comments–especially that you have a special flower delivery once a week from your gentleman aadmirer–I love that!
So beautiful. I agree, to special not to be lived in.
~ Clare x
How wonderful – it is Wednesday now and I am sorry i missed it on Monday!! Whoo – is fantastic light and colour as you say!!
I could move right in sight unseen!Love those colors and THE SHUTTERS!
Merci Karen. It really is a special part of the world isn't it?
Ooh la la, Debra! Stay warm please–cuddle up to that furball of yours!
There is so much to see Sally! So many folks just visit the big monuments (the Roman Arena and Amphitheatre) but it really is wonderful just to wander the streets to look at details too. Hope this finds you well…
Yes, you would love the range of colors that pop with the light here Virginia. Especially at this time of year. Bisous.
Thank you puppyfur–that is a mighty compliment!
You're welcome Sister–I wish you were here to see it!!
I never take it for granted Marielle. But having grown up in the Midwest (Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania), I know that the beauty of Magic Hour is not to be underestimated!
Merci Vero! And you know I feel for you, whew! If I lived in Seattle I would definitely need to buy one of those Happylights!!
Hello my dear friends. Thank you for your beautifully expressed thoughts. There is even a terrace overlooking the Rhone ontop of the house–can you imagine what good times could be had there? And I am fine really. I honestly just feel a little muddle-headed and sniffly–nothing to compare to real allergy sufferers!
Beautiful pictures. Makes me homesick for the south of France and Provence. Enjoy your blog.
I am so laughing here Heather, yes I guess I spoke a little to soon because right now it's 32 degrees and blowing wind and thanking the fire Gods we have a wood stove. Shame those buildings aren't being used beecause they're gorgeous. I wonder if the owner knows the fastest way to ruins is to not have them loved.
I hope you feel better and don't worry my allergy time is coming.
XX
Debra~
Heather, once again, you've put Arles on my list of must-see spots in France!
Beautiful, glorious colours. It's almost a magical glow. xx
What incredibly beautiful photos. I actually let out an audible gasp when I saw the first one!
One can almost feel the heat from the stone, and the warmth of the sun, just by looking.
Ooo – beautiful! Those colors pop especially when you make them larger! Even though it's getting more springy by the minute, I appreciate the Provencal warmth in your pictures – thank you for sharing it with us!
Thank you. We do have sun today in Northern Illinois, and some blooming early buds. But, we do not have the breath taking light of Provence (except during the "Magic Hour" in the early evening on a sun-filled day).
You live in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Gorgeous shots, Heather. I do not take the light for granted either– living in Seattle, light has become a valuable commodity, say, 9 months of the year?! 😉 Bonne semaine à toi aussi! Veronique (French Girl in Seattle)
Hello Heather:
It is, as you say, that warm glow of terracotta coloured walls that caresses the soul and makes one feel part of an ancient history that will endure long after we are but specks of dust. Such a pity that the glorious house you show here is shuttered up and empty…..how one wants those walls to come alive with the sound of laughter and the windows to be thrown open to the warming rays of the sun!
We do so hope that you are not suffering too much with the pollen and that you will feel yourself again soon!!Wishing you happy days!!