When I was in Barcelona I wanted to see the architecture of Gaudi. One place I went was to the Casa Batlló and spent a good deal of time in each room and outdoor space. There were colorful and whimsical shapes throughout the house and many of them featured curves.
I had heard of La Boqueria before going to Barcelona so I noticed the entrance sign while walking along La Rambla. There were people everywhere buying – and selling – vegetables, fruit, candy, and other interesting items. The next afternoon I went there again and when it was time to close vendors began reducing the prices. I ended up with a coconut drink (like a smoothie) and a container of watermelon with a tiny fork for half the regular price. I continued to look around and these were some of the colorful sights.
Last month I visited Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Early one morning I noticed that mist was swirling around the mountains and then a few minutes later it had changed. Here is some of what I saw of the fleeting appearance of the mist from the mountains.
When I was in Paris I went to the Jardin des Tuileries early on a Sunday afternoon. There weren’t many people there and it was easy to find a place to sit. I could choose from a reclining chair or a bench. There were lovely views in all directions and it was very peaceful.
Some seating choices:
The views:
This is where I stayed when I was in Provence. One of the first things I saw was the bridge, and immediately I started humming “Sur le Pont d’Avignon…” which I learned many years ago during French class in elementary school. I wondered if there were other people nearby who knew the song so we could sing it in a round.
I also visited the Palais des Papes and learned about that aspect of the city’s history. It was interesting to see all the different room displays and admire the impressive building.
I was in Paris earlier this week. One afternoon I walked through the Jardin des Tuileries toward the Place de la Concorde looking for the bookstore where I had bought a copy of Madeleine the last time I was there. I was happy when I saw this sign and went inside to look for another book to buy and take home.
I just got back from my trip to Spain and France! I thought I would begin by showing some of the beautiful tiles from Park Güell in Barcelona. It was a challenge getting there because it involved a walk up a steep hill that took me a while to complete. The park was delightful and quite spacious so it didn’t seem too crowded. There were also plenty of benches so it was possible to find a place to sit and enjoy the surroundings. The tiles were both original and colorful and the park was a cheerful place on a sunny afternoon.
I am about leave for France and Spain and then the adventures will begin! I’ll be back with new stories and pictures of some of the wonderful things there are to see. I already know I’ll be watching movies on the plane instead of resting, and there will be lots of chocolate (and gelato) ahead. I’m also bringing a sturdy umbrella and a poncho in case it rains. When I return there will be new souvenirs such as photos, postcards, and scarves to add to my collection of memories. Here are some pictures from an earlier trip to France. Goodbye for now!
