There has been a lot of it about. Unfortunately we keep hearing about English people who are packing up to go back to England. Sometimes they miss their grandchildren; sometimes the struggle with the French language and bureaucracy overwhelms them; sometimes people overstretch themselves by buying properties that appear really cheap without anticipating the cost of repairs and heating. And taxes. Anybody who wishes to set up a business in France has a hard time. They have prove themselves highly qualified as an artisan, then most of their income is taken one way or another by the Government. The cost of joining the French health service is unbelievable. And so it goes on.
There's always the sun above the mist
Luckily for us France is very kind to those that retire here. The only worry is the pound falling against the euro. The cost of food is high but you appreciate the higher quality. People eat a bit more simply and grow their own veg. Shopping is not a way of life here, everyone makes do and mends.
It was probably the springlike day that brought on the revelation that here I am in France doing all the things I always dreamed of. I was sitting out front in the warm sunshine weaving a basket. I visited Gwendy the horse with tidbits in exchange for a little manure for this year’s tomatoes. I went riding at Laizé. I’m reading French romans and enjoy French lessons. There are superb walks in all directions. Our local town, Cluny, is beautiful and interesting. And I live here. Wow!
Riding at Laizé
