What do I love about living in the French countryside?
Two things for starters:
Top of the list has to be "la politesse". I just love the fact that
every transaction however small, every meeting absolutely must begin
with a cheerful "bonjour" at the very least. Everyone takes time to be
polite including the youngest children and young people. It took us a
while to get the hang of it - being English - I well remember my first
visit to a doctor here. Being used to a doctors appointments where eye
contact was rare and speed was the most important factor I rehearsed
the details of my ailment , went in a launched into my speech. The
doctor sat patiently looking at me until I stopped and then said quietly
" bonjour Madam" and I had to start again.
We were in England last weekend and I really noticed the difference in
shops and on the street and I really missed it. We got some strange
looks from some cashiers at the supermarkets after our cheery hellos.
The markets - our visit to the fabulous market in Villefranche is a
highlight of every week for me. Fresh seasonal produce, loads of local
producers buzzing activity and full of characters. A far cry from the
overpriced and overhyped so called farmers markets in England, I don't
know how the French have managed to hold on to the tradition but long
may it continue. Our dentist in Villefranche, when fixing an appointment
on a Thursday will always ask if you want to come before or after the
market ( she goes before she opens the surgery). Walking around the
market last week in the Spring sunshine I realised, not for the first
time, that I am so lucky to have a lifestyle which includes things which
used to be holiday treats.
Sent by Sue Carter
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