Goodbyes and Thank Yous

I am trying to hold it together here at the Blueberry for one last post from the most beautiful spot in France. Already I have had a tearful farewell with my last departing visitor (Guy) at the Avignon TGV.

I really would not like to have tears streaming down my face here and neither would you. It would force me to don my sunglasses in lieu of my reading glasses, and I am not sure even the most generous of readers could tolerate a post that was both maudlin and mis-spelled (nor should they).

I have had an amazing time here, from learning to navigate my way around the countryside, to learning to navigate my way around a standard transmission (FYI -- Guy described the Picasso as "big" and with "touchy brakes"). The best of all of course was sharing time and conversation and exploration and meals with some of my nearest and dearest. I really appreciate that Rosanna, Crystal, Sandra, Glenn, Kate and Guy all committed the time and expense to come and help me celebrate the grand conclusion of my first 50 years, and I am sorry that others were unable to make it, but I can almost assure you there will be another opportunity to get to know this gorgeous countryside and all its epicurean and oenophilic bounty!

Guy and Kate deserve an extra extra heartfelt and inevitably insufficient thank you for treating me to what was, to this point, the most delectable and perfect meal of my life, and which is not likely to have any contenders for that title (until we come back with Jane)!

I also want to note that I have been very pleased to have blog "followers" (and some commentators, as well as a number of lurkers who have identified themselves, and some old-fashioned e-mail correspondents. Thank you all.

And thank you especially to Pat, June, Paul, Johanna (mis-spelled in an earlier post), and Rosie for sharing their hameau with me again!