back to reality

Do you recognize this?  A week ago, we returned from a 3 week long vacation in France.   This picture was taken at Claude Monet's house in Giverny.  Yes!  It is a magical place, so well preserved, that you can actually imagine him sitting there painting his beautiful water lilies.  This visit was one of the highlights of my trip.

We also managed to get to Paris again. Of course, having the boys along as well as my 17 year old neice, meant that we would have to fight the crowds at the Louvre to get a glimpse of the most famous lady in the world.  

We had rented a house near the city of Rouen which meant that we were able to take a lot of day trips, one through the beaches at Normandy. Knowing a bit about WWII from hubby, I found the American War Memorial as well as the Mulberry docks off Omaha beach a bit humbling, knowing how many young men were lost to liberate France. I feel very fortunate to have been there.

Because we had almost two weeks in Southern France, we were able to explore other cultural cities, this time with a trip to Arles, the place Van Gogh painted over 300 of his most famous works.  A walking path with plaques circles the city, allowing you to stand where he had most likely placed his easel to paint.  

We were staying about 2 hours from Barcelona, which meant that we could stop in Figueres, Spain. This is Salvador Dali's birth and final resting place and also where his Theatre Museum lies in an old theater.  Dali himself, created this museum and was said to be his final masterpiece.  He must of been satisfied as he is buried in its walls.   It is our second time visiting and it never disappoints.  

I have some art to share as I get ready for the exhibition in Denmark next month.  I promise to post pictures of my work in the nearest future.

now, get ready for school start Monday...