July 15, 2011

All humility aside, let me just say that I really like this picture. Framed by the huge plastic blow-up Nantes arch, I think I look like a man who has spent the last year relaxing on sabbatical in France. I’ve got a little tan going (true) and I look like I’ve lost some weight (also true). With some pleasure, confidence and excitement I can say it’s about time to head back to Seattle.

Although as soon as I say or think that I feel a profound sadness about leaving Nantes…

Melinda took this picture using my cell phone. It was taken along the path we’d walk to take Ella either to or from school, right next to the Nantes racetrack. In fact, I’m standing on a gravel path that is often used for overflow parking for the track. The crazy blow-up arch, and many other things, were placed here as part of a three day fair of some kind. It’s like paradise for kids. Go-carts, archery, a climbing wall, ropes course, mini-soccer and more, including a stage for live music, have all been set up here for summer fun. Melinda and I had fun just walking through.

A year ago today I wrote about crêpes. At the time I did not know that a savory crêpe is called a galette. We are referring to ourselves from last summer as “Nantes Newbies,” especially when we see things like this that I posted on the blog…
Day 15 (15 July 2010) – Crêpes