It has been very hard to make myself sit down and write with so much to do. Arriving and establishing our new house has been a lot of work. The list of things to do while Matthew is here is very long and the days are short. I have actually felt time flying by at a faster rate than I can ever recall previously. Today, I got out of bed in the dark at 6:30 am. The sun doesn’t rise until 7:30 or so but I was awake and I decided to make a cup of tea and get some work done ahead of the hustle.

We have accomplished a great deal in the last few days. We have made another trip to IKEA and purchased outdoor dining set (which is currently in the kitchen while we wait for my international shipment), loveseat, chairs, bedding, light fixtures and shelves for the kitchen. We have a washer installed and working. Today, our large refrigerator/freezer will arrive along with a television. Were it not for Matthew’s hard work and handiness I would still be sitting in my living room surrounded by boxes.

I have managed to sign up for an internet/t.v./phone bundle with Orange but have to wait til October 10th to have it connected. I am struggling a bit with my French bank account which appears to have a very conservative weekly limit that I’m allowed to spend. I only know this after being declined at IKEA even though there was plenty of money in my account. Today, I will try to get that sorted as I am currently in need of fluid funding to set up accounts, and purchase big ticket items.

This week allowed me to become more familiar with area shopping. I now understand the difference between the offerings of a Supermarche and my local Épicerie. I have learned that a Brocante is the best place to find used furniture and bits and pieces without spending a ton. Things are not open all the time like in the U.S. Stores are closed completely on certain days and times (12:00-2:30 pm) and you have to plan accordingly. The only place that is open everyday is the local boulangerie and it comforts me to know that bread is my one constant.

I have spent time on my feet learning the paths and trails around my little town. There is a lovely 2.5 mile route that allows your to circumnavigate the town on a grass path with tree cover. There are trails between neighborhoods, connecting streets and along farmland. It is beautiful and Sophie has benefitted from a fair amount of time off leash. Our morning walk includes visit with 2 ponies, 3 donkeys and some highland cattle. Sophie stared at a baby cow for some time. I can’t help but think she was wondering what lucky dog breed allowed for such growth!