My Monday was close to perfect. I got up and did some working out, got my chimney’s swept and headed up to see the boys at Saint M’Hervé. They have a lovely restaurant across the street from their house that does a really nice plat du jour so we started our day at restaurant traiteur La Belle Etoile. I had the crudités and tabouleh for a starter, and beouf and frites for the main. I have to admit the best part was a chocolate, hazle-nut filled beignet for dessert. It was yummy and the boys very generously treated me!

The weather was 70 degrees and spectacularly bright. The sun is really starting to feel warm and we decide to take Sophie on a walk around a lake about 2 kms from their house. This was in fact the same lake we walked to in late September last year which nearly led to Matt and Dave’s divorce, our fatigue and heat stroke. This time we drove and parked at the lake and brought water which all felt a bit more sensible. The walk was only about 4 miles and change but there is something about walking around a lake that makes it feel longer. I think it is because it is nearly all visible to you the whole way around.

Sophie was able to be off leash much of the time. She rolled in a dead bird carcass, and ate lots of stinky things along the way. She was in her element. Dave, Matt and I had lovely conversation and at one point sensibly stopped at a picnic table with beautiful views of the lake. There we had a drink of water and short rest. Dave felt like Matt and I were marching a bit aggressively so it was important to give the grandpa his rest. *

*Even as I write that, I know those are fighting words but I can’t resist.

The day finished with sunny drive back to St. Denis de Gastines. Once home, Sophie and I lounged in the garden unable to do much more than appreciate the tail end of the fine day. Tuesday is also supposed to be gorgeous so I’m hoping to mow my lawn and complete some garden tasks.

e.