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.
This post already has me 'homesick' for Provence and I'm still here! x
Oh you are very welcome but I am the one to offer thanks in return for your kind words.
I promise you they wouldn't mind. 🙂
Yep, I think that you two are specialists of this. 🙂
Oh Heather…to be in Provence….so many years ago..your pictures and words take me back…..such lovely photos, the stillness and beauty touches me as I gaze again at your wonderful 'eye'…your unique ability to gather us all in and share each moment with you…..
Did I say …thank you.
Stunning. I feel like I am right there with you. (And I want to snuggle up with the dogs…)
xo
You are so correct about enjoying the moment: the smell, the sound, the nothingness of extraordinary when you left yourself enjoy what is and don't spend a lot of time looking for that something 'special'.
Anna, I can't tell you how many people I see in Arles that are practically jogging through during their visit to get it done and move to the next town! Really!!! That and the couples that are fighting over something like "well, you told me it was this way!" or "the market closes soon, hurry up!" just break my heart.
Let's hear it for meandering! 🙂 One thing that I learned as a travel writer–well, it will sound obvious–but the best things are always off the beaten path…
I am a big believer in naps. 🙂 And fussing over the pups. They deserve all that I can give for the happiness they give…
Thank you for the kind words, always appreciated!!!!
Merci beaucoup, Mumbai and it says much of who you are to even take the time to stop by with all that you are doing!! I hope that it is going well…will go and listen to the song that you suggested!