Cafe-Time

Traveled the last few days from western France
down along the southern regions to Montpelier;
in southeast France. As we travel to larger cities
the enjoyment level increases in my favorite
French pastime: Cafe-Time.
Buy a food/drink item or two, sit facing the street
or pedestrian area, and prepare to be entertained.
Cafe-Time worked in a small town like Argenton-Chateau,
but with only one establishment with cafe tables,
and only open a few days a week,
and most of the passer-bys are people you recognize
- some of the fun goes out of the sport.




Charmed today by a small white poodle-mix
who, although well trained and obviously aware
to stay by his owners, was also free to wander
about as far as the average 5-year-old child;
(within sight - no fighting, must share toys,
playing tag is fine, do not trip the elderly,
and look both ways before you cross the street).
He rested beneath the cafe table when he needed to,
and played or explored when he felt like it.
In fact he was better behaved than most 5 year olds.

Hope to travel to a nature reserve near Montpellier;
La Camargue - known for its flocks of pink flamingoes,
black bulls, and wild white ponies -
found in marshlands near the mediterranean coast.
Have the bus timetable and grabbed a few brochures
for boat tours of the region - may give that a try tomorrow.

Area is much different than Argenton-Chateau;
11 km from the Mediterranean Sea with sandy soil,
and wide-spread vineyards.
The temperature feels much drier and warmer here,
and I look forward to a side trip to a beach soon -
I have to dip my toes into every ocean and sea I find.
M