Provence Journal #3

...In keeping with the motto that I've adopted since I began my Provence retreats, I'm challenged once again on this trip to "let go". As someone who enjoys trying to be in control, I'm not fond of this task, but I've learned that it's part of life's adventures.

First, three days of rain put a damper on plans to show friends the sites and open air markets, then a more serious situation arose with the sudden death of the patriarch of our French friends. Since Michel's death last Saturday, our plans have fallen to the wayside as we opened our hearts and our schedules to the grieving family.

Life always slows down when I am here in Provence, and the leisurely pace is even more pronounced this year with the calm and somber visits with our friends.

I've noticed that I'm more in the moment and am enjoying even the smallest of things like the way the sun hits the ocre colored buildings at sunset. Last night, instead of heading into Nice where there is always something happening along the Promenade des Anglais, I opted to stay put and prepare my welcome gifts for the retreat women who arrive on Saturday.

My friend's daughter, Sylvie, who lives next door came by with a huge basket of lavender she had harvested from the garden. She asked if I'd like to make some bouquets. For a couple of hours, I trimmed the fragrant stems into small bunches tied with raffia from her yard. In midst of it all, I could not have imagined anything more pleasing to do. When the gifts were completed, my entryway smelled heavenly and I felt full of gratitude for this simple, yet engaging activity.

I've attached a photo of me with my project. It will serve as a reminder to me of the wonderful surprises that come from giving in to the moment and letting go of plans.

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