Here we go, that first day. I’m back from a morning stroll and I truly wonder if there are others that are experiencing my thoughts, excitement and intimidation. I am understanding now why so many, in response to my discussed adventure, expressed the courage I must have to set out onto such unfamiliar territory. I get it! But I will continue to get beyond this intimidation of being in France and just the purchases made in the outdoor marketplace for my immediate needs has boosted a bit of confidence.
Aix en Provence is quite a bustling little city. I am considering getting a guided tour because I don’t want my head buried in maps and brochures and miss any prominent attraction….or, frankly, I truly enjoy looking up along the streets to the uniqueness of the architecture, the colors and the people…..the street signs….and I have to watch for cars….and any changes in the street elevation. So, that being said, you can imagine why I make note of this….honestly I am careful, but sometimes a bit caught off guard….at least nothing has happened to my detriment….I can laugh about it! I did take out my google maps to see how lost I was, and realized I wasn’t really….and I have no time line on which to follow so, go with the flow. And I can’t forget to take photos. Thankful for this blog because I’m thinking I have to share this experience and it can’t just be in my head! Such a learning experience to say the least!
I have some excursions/activities planned for now but will continue with more as I brave the unknown. I will be joining my new found friend, Emily Durand ( thank you, Lorraine) from “Your Private Provence”, for an evening of truffle hunting and a gourmet meal afterwards. I have scheduled a local cooking class to follow…marketing and cooking with dining on the meal prepared at a private home. Just the start, but now I must prepare to venture out again to the tourist office. Need to discover any music venues that might be happening…time to be social.
Emily Durand says:
I saw Lisa on her first day in Provence. My only regret is not having captured her face on camera when we left the bistro side café to head back to the apartment and we came to a crossroad – I think she suddenly realized her adventure had begun. “Which way do I go?” – There’s only way now, liZA (her name is now officially Liza and not Lisa) – it’s forward thru the language barrier, the insecurities, the getting lost, the feeling different. It’s also forward thru the joys of learning a new language, a new lifestyle, a new perspective and a new you.
Denise says:
Liza, I love visiting your blog! Your great adventure has begun! It’s a way of sitting down together with a cup of coffee to share the day. so proud of you, girl!