“All great achievements require time.”
Maya Angelou
tour de france
In honor of the first day of summer, what I most look forward to this season-the Tour de France! Allow me to explain-I am not a cyclist, nor do I own a bike. I am not a big sports fan and do not watch any other sport as closely as this one. But the first time I watched it, about 10 years ago, I was hooked. I watch the entire Tour…including flat stages and rest days with continuing coverage. It would be easy to conclude my obsession is due to my francophilia, but no-it is an exhilarating sport! Glimpses of far reaching towns, gorgeous countryside, challenge, and cycling tradition…bring it on.
(image courtesy of www.letour.fr)
ancestry…
To elaborate on the family theme today, I thought I would share a glimpse of my family tree. I have been working on it for months now, using what my family has documented combined with online research. It’s fascinating to see it unfold and lead to France on both sides! Fun fact-I’m back to the 1100’s on my father’s side and we are linked to Henry III! My Dad has stated that from now on I must address him as King Henry. Does that make me a princess?!
quote
“A dog has no use for fancy cars, big homes, or designer clothes. A water log stick will do just fine. A dog doesn’t care if you’re rich or poor, clever or dull, smart or dumb. Give him your heart and he’ll give you his. How many people can you say that about? How many people can make you feel rare and pure and special? How many people can make you feel extraordinary?”
John Grogan
(from the film Marley & Me-and I took that photo…the house is 10 minutes from us!)
chateau de chambord
Chambord…amazing just in it’s size, is a treat. I would have liked to have seen more furnishings, but it never was fully furnished. Francois I built it as a hunting lodge and rendezvous point for his, ahem, mistress. Under construction for twenty years, from 1519-1547, it had many inhabitants. Built in the Renaissance style, the roof was intended to look like the skyline of Constantinople. Not Istanbul…Constantinople. The incredible double helix staircase is rumored to have been designed by Leonardo Da Vinci…still a mystery. I just recently learned that Chambord liqueur was named after the region and the raspberry liqueur popular there in the 17th century. Maybe I should have done some more research on that before writing this post…or during!