Hello again, Faithful Readers!
As promised, this week’s post is a status report of sorts. With spring in full swing in Denver, I thought I would also share some photos from the Denver Botanic Gardens, a truly lovely patch of flora (and even some fauna!) in the middle of the city.
But first, my plans. I have enjoyed being home in Denver, getting to see friends and revive old activities (pickleball, for one!). But I am focused on returning to France, this time on a yearlong visa, which I will be applying for soon. I truly loved the lifestyle of the French and their values, among them the importance placed on social connections. They enjoy being with friends and family and make time for doing just that.
The time leading up to the French election on April 24th was nerve-wracking, as there was so much coverage on the rise of Marine Le Pen. It was extremely reassuring that the French were not convinced of her ideas; at least, the majority were not. It remains worrying, of course, the that so many countries are leaning into authoritarianism. At least, France, and the EU, will have a rational leader in Macron for five more years.
I loved my time in Montpellier, mainly because of the outstanding people I met. However, I did not resonate with the city itself. Having lived in Denver for the last five, almost six, years, maybe I am just burned out on large cities? When I visited Vence, a village of 19,000, it felt like home. I loved the idea of being able to walk into the hills and go to the sea, since both are in close proximity. So, I hope to return there in…July? That seems ambitious as I write it, but that’s my goal.
Between now and then I will be putting my townhome up for sale in Denver and looking for a smaller place in Boulder to buy…again, gravitating away from a city to a town. Having a condo there will provide that safety net, if, or when, I return to the U.S. to live. In the meantime, I can rent it out. That’s IF I can find a place. Boulder is highly desirable, and there’s little inventory. So, we’ll see how this pans out…
In the meantime, it’s lovely weather for outdoor activities, and I’ve very much enjoyed taking advantage of the opportunities to bike, hike and play sports. Today I went for a lovely walk in the Gardens and took some photos, which I will share with you here. As for my next update…I’ll post again the week of May 30. Until then, be well!
Happy Spring to All!