Why do people smile in the forest?

Patches of the Fontainebleau forest floor are carpeted with bluebells today. Weeks ago, we found patches of forest floor covered in wild daffodils (jonquilles sauvages).

The new oak (chene) and beech (hetre) leaves are that heart-rending pale chartreuse green that signifies spring.

The temperatures have soared to 82 degrees Fahrenheit, or 29 degrees Celcius - an anomaly for mid-April.

While in the city, or in the small towns, people don’t smile or say ‘bonjour’, in the forest, people smile and say a hearty ‘bonjour’ and give a big smile. Why?

People dress differently in the forest – more like Seattle; comfortable shoes - a veritable rarity in Paris – shorts and t-shirts.

Do people think they can trust other people in the forest? Why else let down your façade, your protection. Or do people think they might need each other in the event of a dinosaur or a saber-toothed tiger showing up suddenly? Do they greet you to see your teeth and evaluate your edibility?

A Flavor of France

Around the House in Le Perreux Sur Marne

As usual, Gillian negotiating the deal with the Agente Immobilier. Here is what things look like from the front courtyard. In the background is Nicolas picking the lock with his BNP Paribas debit card.
Hey Hey!!! Finally it's BBQ time again. Gillian, can you bring me a Red Hook?
Bonjour! Il fait beau Aujourd'hui. Here is the view of our bedroom window from the back garden. Gillian, watch out for the ivy!!! It has been a warm winter here in Paris. Grass mowing and terrace washing must be attended to, but there is always time for a nice cup of Starbucks from my KCTS insulated mug.

IN BRUGGE a new film staring Colin Farrell

OK, we have been doing this France thing now for roughly 19 months and 21 days and Gillian has been carrying the heavy load on keeping the Blog up to date. So now, god willing and the creek don't rise, our friends and family should have a chance to see our European experience through "The Eyes of Mike".

Brugge, Belgium...Our friends Marv and Edie from Seattle told us about Brugge about 3 years ago. They both raved about the beauty and interest that this city of canals, cathedrals and cobbled streets had to offer. I have to admit at the time I was not convinced that this Flemish city near the Belgian coast would really measure up to Marv and Edie's description. I am happy to report that they were absolutely right. Brugge, known as the Venice of northern Europe, is an amazing combination of carefully restored medieval village and modern European city. I would highly recommend Brugge for a weekend of boat rides in the canals, a bike ride through the quiet cobbled streets (Although a little bumpy) and a delicious dinner at one of the many outstanding seafood restaurants.

While we were there Gillian had the great experience of seeing Colin Farrell in the fresh. For those of you that don't know him, Colin is a swarthy and seductive Irish actor that makes Gillian's heart go pitter patter. Colin was in Brugge while we were there to film his newest movie called "In Brugge"
Here I am buried up to my armpits in the sand along the Belgium coast. Not so seductive and/or swarthy. Gillian...Gillian...come back!