I was just writing out a list of suggestions about where and what to visit for a friend’s upcoming trip to la Belle Provence when I stopped still, fingers paused over the keyboard. Up at the top of the email, I added what is my most important advice: DON’T PLAN TOO MUCH.
That is a little bijou of wisdom that I often offer up to vacationers and yet fear that it is seldom heeded. And I understand, I do. You have saved your pennies and planned for months. It is normal to want to “take it all in” and to “make the most of it” but alas, I am here to say, that is an attitude that is appropriate for discovering Manhattan. But for Provence?
Why I so treasure our time at La Buissonade, our cottage rental in the Luberon, is that it is where we settle into the Good Life. We go there to seek it out. Now, I understand that is a relative concept. Very, very relative. But for me, the essence of living in Provence is to take time and be appreciative. To feel the sun on my upturned face. Have some wine at lunch, take a nap. Listen to the birds and watch the flowers bend and sway. Read. Get Lost in the Looking.
And while all of those moments can be achieved nearly everywhere in the world, there is something about this particuliar environment that just makes it magic to me, that makes my heart sing. Do you remember playing with your hands when you were little: “Here is the church, here is the steeple, open the doors and see all the people”? There is joy in the moments when it all comes together.
Thank you so much, as always, Edgar.
I think that you and Mrs. Abstract are wise to have found each other. I know that Remi and I feel the same. Just to be able to see and move about in the world in a way that is simpatico.
And if you don't have the good life in Napa, then where? 😉
Thank you for the really fine compliment, Bill.
Oooh, I will definitely take a look, Bill. Hawaii seems to me to be all about the Good Life as well, non?? But oh my, Kauai to Paris? Now that is one long flight… 😉
We are. If we aren't in the midst of moving we will go again to hide from the Easter Bullfights in April. But honestly, it is that our hosts are so wonderful (and so generous–they are professional cooks!) that makes it extra special.
Dogs know how to live life and Ben is no exception. 🙂 And thank you for the lovely compliment…but I have to say that I am largely talking to myself! Breathe in, breathe out…I need it!!!
Who me??? 😉 We moved during my junior year of high school from York, PA (just outside of Amish country) where I was considered a major freak but of course by SC standards I was positively normal!!!
Merci Silke…eh, oui…la lumiere…cétait sublime. Franchement. Rien à dire.
Yes, Slow Travel – nothing can beat it. Some people like a trip planned with military precision with the check-off list. but not me – I am more relaxed when able to be spontaneous/flexible and to saunter, meander and tarry!
The more you travel, I think the more that you get "the less is more" concept–no surprise that you are with me on this one. 🙂
The puppers look as though they have added an extra silky layer for the photo shoot. Perhaps it was all the patting they were getting from Remi. Holidays should certainly include naps 🙂 Beautiful, beautiful photos.