Holy Gitte! France is beautiful.

Why I loved Bordeaux by Anya Beeden.

“Mum and Dad had made a surprise for me and Max. So when we arrived we saw a sign saying “A surprise awaits you” then another saying “Tonight will be the best of your life”. That is about all the signs I remember. Then we walked inside and balloons started coming out of an upstairs window. So we went upstairs and opened the door and there was Pia, Evie, Nuala and Paul. I was at first in my mind “Who are these people?”. Then I realised it was them so I ran to Pia and gave her a massive hug.”

A magic time with friends – the kids were blown away that we had managed to keep it secret that we were going to see their Townsville friends (who they hadn’t seen for 2.5y) in France at Nuala’s folks’ home. French feasts at every meal – SO much cheese, bread, meat and wine – divine! A dog walk at the local shelter, swimming in the pool, and cups of tea in the couchon made for a very relaxing holiday.

Ziplining adventures in the tree tops, flying across water, and cappucinos at the local colourful market – huge artichokes on display – YUM!

The McLernon / Pyper clan ducked on the BBQ, swung through long spring evenings, begged for boeuf with big Dolly eyes and delivered wine and entertaining monologues through the couchon window – thanks Jim and Jan, Nuala and Paul!