Gayle Smith Padgett's Blog, page 7

Sigh of Relief in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Grateful we are for President Macron’s message last night: Overall, it appears the number of new confirmed Covid cases is going down in France. This is encouraging news as it means this second lockdown we’re in—le confinement redeux—is working. Restrictions will be eased in three stages. Beginning on Saturday, it will be possible to engage … Continue reading Sigh of Relief in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Heartfelt Condolences

This shimmering sunflower offers hope, and we need it. Recently, some vicious crimes have rocked France. One was the brutal murder of a middle school teacher in Paris, and the others were worshipers at a church in Nice. The tragic deaths of these citizens remind us of the destructive power of hate, bringing much grief … Continue reading Heartfelt Condolences

Wheelin’ ‘Round St. Rémy de Provence

The curtains may be closed around the carousel for the season, but other things keep going round and round here in St. Rémy de Provence—as long as the sun shines. Though the temperatures have dropped, there are many days when the wind is calm and the soleil is warm. This inviting weather brings out post-summer tourists … Continue reading Wheelin’ ‘Round St. Rémy de Provence

Refreshing Comfort Zones in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence…and nearby

Calm spaces, peaceful moments, soul-nourishing vistas. All are more important now than ever as the world faces the viral pandemic and often other serious challenges too. Finding solace in the chaos can be difficult. Ralph’s dad used to say that when times are tough, there are three things to do: Get busy, just start, and … Continue reading Refreshing Comfort Zones in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence…and nearby

Somber Summer in St. Rémy de Provence

Steamy and sizzling by day, cool and calm night. This sums up St.Rémy de Provence the last week of June 2020. But well-being and tranquility do not reign across the globe. On one hand, there’s the horrific health pandemic caused by the coronavirus that has tragically claimed so many lives, including our beloved neighbor who … Continue reading Somber Summer in St. Rémy de Provence

My St. Rémy: Almost Mine and Mine Alone

Spring in St. Rémy usually means hoards of tourists cramming the cafés, marchés, and boutiques, as well as festivals and flea markets. Since the lockdown in March due to the corona virus, the entire town sleeps, all shops shuttered except a few food and beverage outlets, the presse and pharmacies. Having this beautiful place pretty … Continue reading My St. Rémy: Almost Mine and Mine Alone

Provençal Posey Promises

Big and brash, these gorgeous springtime blooms brighten our day, lifting our spirits, here in St. Rémy de Provence. Colorful signs of printemps are popping up all over, which helps us stay positive, a priority—following waking up fever-free!–in these days of the corona virus. In mid-March when President Macron instituted severe movement restrictions for all … Continue reading Provençal Posey Promises

From Saint Rémy to all around the globe: BONNE ANNÉE 2020!

Before turning my attention to the wonders that await us here in France this new year, some important words of appreciation to you, dear readers. From the bottom of my heart, a thousand thank yous–mille fois merci!–for your continued support of Passion for Provence: 22 Keys to La Belle Vie. Since its publication, it’s been … Continue reading From Saint Rémy to all around the globe: BONNE ANNÉE 2020!

Joyeuses Fêtes de France

Nothing says Happy Holidays like lots of twinkly lights. Here in the south of France, though December decorations may be more subdued than in the U.S., they brighten up dim days and lift hearts with their magical glow.  La Rotonde, the famous fountain at the foot of the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence, decked out in … Continue reading Joyeuses Fêtes de France

….. Basque Beauty ….. St. Jean de Luz, France

Seeing the light in St. Jean de Luz is mesmerizing any time of day. But early morning and dusk were our favorites. From our holiday apartment looking west towards the Bay of Biscay, we were captivated by the sun sliding across the surf, illuminating the curling waves, as they crashed against the sand, all the … Continue reading ….. Basque Beauty ….. St. Jean de Luz, France