On Saturday I was able to drive the boys down to Bagnoles De L’orne to attend a massive vide-grenier (flea market/antique sale) that stretched from the lake to the next village. Several people had told me it was amazing and vast but I wasn’t prepared for just how large this event was. We struggled to find parking in the town but ultimately I was able to slide into a half space because of the size of my Fiat!

We walked to the park and began our walk through the forest. There were so many vendors with a huge assortment of wares. Basically on two sides of a running path, there were camper vans with tables and blankets set up in front. I saw antique military supplies, gorgeous lawn furniture, sculptures, paintings, china, garden tools, toys, jewelery and light fixtures. It was overwhelming. I was only looking for two things and I had 20 euro in cash and was determined to not spend more. I wanted a bicycle pump and I was hoping to find a small, outdoor fire pit. I had seen them in friend’s gardens and really they were no more than a large metal dish/bowl that you could build a fire in. Dave found a brand new bike pump in under two minutes. It was still in its packaging and only cost 2 euros. Not more than 15 minutes later I spotted a cast iron, small, fire pit with stand. We were able to get that for only 15 euros. I was ecstatic. We left it with the seller as it would have been a bit difficult to lug for the miles of sale yet to see.

The weather was perfect. It was sunny, breezy and about 75 degrees. It was crowded and at times a bit hard to navigate with Sophie. She was pleased to be with us and loved to stop and get a drink at the various water bowl stations we found. She also loved meeting all the other dogs who were out perusing for deals. I think she most loved the smell of sausages, frites and crepes that were coming from stalls dotted in between vendors. The smell of frites ultimately claimed me and we decided to turn around before reaching the end of the path in pursuit of lunch in town. We had a picnic by the lake and then I walked back to the car hauling my fire pit. After getting that in the trunk and getting black all over my arms, jeans and face, I went back to town to get some ice cream.

We sat in the sunshine, sipped espresso and and I had two boules of glacé. I chose pistachio and salted caramel. It was heavenly. We didn’t return to St. Denis until close to 5 pm. I was tired but so grateful for such a wonderful day spent with friends. Sophie immediately ate dinner and went to bed. She was too tired for any Saturday night festivities.

Next year I will bring more money. There were bird cages that could help me sort out my unwanted guests.