Just chilling out at Chateau Valcreuse. Now doing breakfasts on our own – not so scary once you know the routine. Also cooking dinner for the guests one night this week – had a trial run on the staff the other night and they are still okay! One difficulty we face here is the 5 course dinner served most night. We are really trying to limit things, skip courses, ask for tiny serves etc. Unfortunately our main cook – fellow Aussie house sitter Leah – likes to serve up big. Thank goodness for the many stairs we need to climb every day!
Our days are quite busy; laundry to do, beds to make, a bit of cleaning. We do have days off and get the chance to visit the local area. We recently checked out Angles sur l’Anglin, a village about 15 minutes drive away – we get to use a little car as part of our house sit – extra bonus. Angles sur l’Anglin is one of the most beautiful villages in France. It has an interesting old castle – now a ruin. It was in use from the 11th to the 15th century and played an important role in the 100 Year War in the 14th century. Great to walk through. The village has narrow cobblestone streets and little shops and cafes – heaps of character. We met a very friendly English artist who uses one of the old churches in the village as his workshop and gallery. Just loves living in France. There’s also a substantial bridge crossing the River L’Anglin that runs through the centre of the village. The old castle towers above it – great views. We just enjoyed walking around the village. We also visited the old medieval town centre of Chauvigny, about 15 minutes drive further on. Lots of interesting buildings and churches – lots of character. Beautiful views over the rest of the town. It was then into our little “chateau car” and a lovely drive back to La Roche-Posay and home. Of course a different way! Another loop and a great day out.
We have walked into La Roche-Posay numerous times. To visit the market – lots of local produce, or to chill at a local cafe or bar in the late afternoon. We just sit and play some cards, enjoy an aperitif, and watch the world go by. This is usually initiated by Caroline, but there’s little resistance! Part of these little afternoon outings is Florence having a ride on the merry-go-round in the village square. She really loves it. Florence is just so cute!!!! She has such a beautiful nature and just thrives with so many people in the house dotting on her. We have been spoiled with children lately. The foster children in Burgundy and now Florence. A bit of a fix for us missing our grandchildren.
Now the Chateau is lovely, not over the top grand, really just a very big house. It’s a dilemma when deciding where to sit for our morning tea – “shall we go to the salon, or sit at the huge dining table under the chandelier, or outside on the patio?” Decisions! Decisions! The country side is really drying off now. Also the leaves are starting to change colour – we are very excited about experiencing a European autumn.
Cheers and love to all
Di and Reg