Bonsoir.
And I do mean “Hello there,” said shyly, timidly, for I haven’t been very present and yet you all have been extremely gracious and supportive.
It has been an unusual Summer. And it isn’t finished yet, so I will beg more of your patience for a little while longer – say two weeks or so – and then I will be so very excited to return to regular programming.
For you see, we are moving. Out of Arles but nearby. To a village that I hope will remain my secret. But then again you know of it already, as I have referred to it as My Secret Provence several times in the past.
Sometimes a certain place calls to you and won’t let you go until you make it your own. It took us almost one year but that is what Remi and I have done. We stopped looking for houses and started focusing on the where. No, we didn’t buy but found a rental that makes me say, “Hello House,” each time that I walk in the open front door. I smile broadly as I open up the shutters to let the light in.
You will understand when you see it. But not yet. No, I won’t share until we are moved in. I am funny that way.
Until then, can you stand by me a little longer, even if I am silent? My trip to the States ended up being longer than I had planned and so now, despite fierce jet-lag, I am thrown into the thick of packing and renovating before the moving date of the 21st. I am honestly not certain how much I will be around before then. But please don’t go away, for a quiet slice of the real Provence awaits you…yes, it still exists…
Do you have your hand on the door handle? I do, all while looking over my shoulder with much Gratitude. Arles will always be here for me but now we are certain and ready to start a new adventure.
For those of you that are wondering, yes, Remi and the boys are doing just fine and were very happy to welcome me home, albeit one in transit. No more to say about that, I am looking forward.
For there are good things ahead, I feel it in my bones.
Have a wonderful weekend. Toast the Summer for me, will you?
How exciting! Sending you big bises for your new home. Good luck with the move!
Well how wonderful, a new home is such a delight.
Dear Heather I am so happy for you. I hope the move goes smoothly. Just got back from London. The pace is so different to. I really enjoyed 'rediscovering' it. I hope we will still see Arles from time to time but I am really looking forward to seeing this new corner of Provence. I bet it will be just as beautiful.
Yay! Excited for your move, I will hope that it goes smoothly for you. A new, quiet retreat…sounds magical. Good luck with everything!
Very happy for you and Remi that you found a home in your special part of Provence. I look forward to reading all about it.
Thank you so very much everyone!! We don't have internet at our new house yet so I haven't been able to respond as I would like. But moving day is coming up…On the 21st and 22nd! Hooray!
I'm glad to hear that you found a new home. Our coffee date will have to wait until I return to France at the end of October. By the way, I found a home for sale in Maussane or outside Maussane, next to a pony club. Happy moving and I'm looking forward to seeing photos of the new home when you are settled.
Judy
I'm so pleased to read this, Heather, and I'm looking forward to seeing your new home, whenever YOU are ready to show it.
Heather we just moved last week…I had forgotten how tiring it can be…but you feel yourself spurred on by the excitement of the change. Can't wait to see inside.
I am thrilled for you, Heather. Change is so good for a person in so many ways. This sounds like a very lovely one. We can wait…but will be so excited for all of you!