I know that many of you are in the midst of preparing for Thanksgiving in the States right now but this morning I awoke with an entirely different holiday in mind.
(To listen: http://www.stereomood.com/song/52738)
When I opened the shutters, I cried out with a childlike delight “It’s snowing!”–one that for me is whisperingly linked with the spirit of Christmas.
Yes, a surprise gift had been left overnight on my doorstep. So, I bundled up in my finest, leashed up the puppers and headed out to explore.
It is the first time that I have walked Kipling in the snow and I was curious to see what his reaction would be.
He loved every minute of it, eating the snow and daring Ben to rounds of mad zoomies that I couldn’t photograph as I was gripping his leash with both hands!
But there was also stillness curled up within the movement.
I would look up to find Ben quietly watching the flakes fall. As intelligent as he is (and he truly is), he never knows what to make of snow.
Nor do I really. I never take it for granted in Provence…
…its comings and goings…
…the ephemeral draped over the historical so casually…
…like time’s open palm, hesitating before pushing open the front door…
…of what feels like Home.
And since I am not with my extended family for tomorrow’s feast, I will be grateful for my own little one.
Because every day is worth that. Everyday has exceptional in it.
So, for those of you to whom it applies, please try not to worry about the turkey any more than necessary nor the fanciness of this years particular blend of cranberry sauce. It isn’t really what matters. Just enjoy the act of giving thanks. And for the rest of us, well, why not too? Simply for breathing in and out or the quiet thought that while we may be far from certain ones, we most certainly are not alone.
Put that thought under your tree and skip towards Christmas with me…
And oh! I just realized that today is the beginning of Hanukkah so my very Best all who are celebrating that as well. My goodness, it is Holiday Central here at Lost in Arles, isn’t it? Well, we are a festive bunch.
Beautiful pictures of a beautiful place. Thanks for sharing them!
Happy Winter to you Heather! Enjoy each day. I saw a phrase the other day that read, "Life is short. . .so live it!" Good words to remember!
Oh that was so beautiful Heather. I can't believe that it snows in Provence. I thought the weather was mild, like it is here. The photos are so lovely. Snow just changes everything doesn't it? I am just a little bit jealous 🙂
It's making me feel chilled just looking at those images….it gives the streets a very different atmosphere doesn't it? Much older, somehow…
My cats hate snow. "What is this thing on my fur? Get it off!!!"
These are special pictures. We don't get much snow in Austin, but it has been around the freezing temperature for a few nights. I love seeing your dogs and your city, especially in the snow. My two dogs have never experienced it.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Such lovely pictures and as always, your words are divine. I'm thankful I found your blog Heather, blessings to your and yours this holiday season. Thankfully I don't have to fret over a turkey. Cheri
I love how the snow makes everything seem quieter, calmer. Your magical photos really transport me! Karina would be doing zoomies right ahead of Kipling.
And thank you for your beautiful thoughts as well.
Touching words and beautiful images. I have never experienced a white Christmas – perhaps next year in France. Warm wishes
Oh, I love this, Heather. And, you even made a rhyme.