May Birthday in Monze

Well my milestone birthday arrived on May 16th. 

I’m a day older than yesterday and a year older than last year. But I feel the same! 

As we went to sleep last night I joked that I wouldn’t be “64” anymore when I woke up the next morning. 

Happy Birthday to me! 

All that was planned for today was a lunch date with Monsieur Honey. 

We decided on the the “Restaurant le M’11”  in Monze (two villages away from Montlaur). 

It is about 6 miles away as the crow flies, about a fifteen to twenty minute drive (it may be faster if you are a Formula 1 race car driver) on the winding roads.

Situated on the D3 with such amazing views of the vineyards, farmland and the mountains in the background. 

The sun was shining and there was a breeze blowing so we opted to be seated inside. 

We enjoyed aperitifs, delicious tasting wine and food by the open fire. 

You may wonder why I take photos of the menu? It’s so I can remember what it was and can try to recreate the dishes that most intrigued my palette. 

Everything was delicious ... my favourite though was my entrée (starter) ... the goat cheese/ honey /onion compote wrapped in phyllo pastry.  

Monsieur especially liked his starter a tuna & rice salad plate, but as he always says you can’t beat a “French poulet” dinner.  

I watched my pork tenderloin being grilled on the open fire, then served with a most tasty pesto sauce ...

and let’s not forget the French fries! 

We then walked to the winery “Les Jamelles” next door, of course we came away with some wine and some other souvenirs. 

Impressive history of this winery! 

Ah Monsieur what are you thinking? 

My day was complete with many birthday wishes via email, messenger and FaceTime calls from family and friends.

Thank you everyone! 

Not the Chelsea Flower Show!

More flower postcards!

I hope this brings some colour and sunshine into your life!

The roads, streets and fields are coming alive with colour. 

There are wild flowers that have migrated to their new homes carried there by the wind and nature, purpose planted bulbs, seeds, and plants.

Ferns soften the colour of stone walls as they magically grow from little crevices.

Everyone has been busy filling their terracotta or concrete planters that take places of honor on their owners' terraces and windowsills.

The rosebushes are awakening with bursts of sweet perfume and kaleidoscopes of colours.

Perennial favourites are opening their eyes and saying "Bonjour" as you walk by.

These are just a few of my favourite postcards of the natural beauty you can see everyday in France as you wander the streets, walk through the countryside, or visiting friends.

The landscape and carpet of colour is constantly changing!