Yesterday was mayoral elections here in France. The mayor of Lyon, Grégory Doucet, was up for re-election (he was elected to his first term in 2020). His main opponent, Jean-Michel…
On Saturday, we enjoyed a picnic at the Parc de la Tête d'Or in Lyon. We traveled via the Vélo'v eBike service. We enjoyed our food, even if we had to fight off a couple of geese. We visited the free zoo featuring giraffes, as well as the botanical garden, which inspired future explorations.
Last weekend, we hiked Mont Thou, starting with a 15-20 minute bus ride to Saint-Fortunat. Despite encountering steep sections, the trail was enjoyable, with friendly passersby. We discovered ancient stone huts called "Cabornes" and relaxed in meadows.
French farmers are protesting the EU-Mercosur Partnership Agreement, which eliminates tariffs and imposes import quotas. While farmers oppose it, wine producers have mixed feelings, and environmentalists strongly object. The deal was paused by the EU parliament. In contrast, a far-right march in Lyon saw minimal public support and response from authorities.
So, Gracie is back from doggie boot camp. And, while we need to wait until Monday or Tuesday to talk with the trainer who worked with her (he doesn't work…
Gracie is back from doggie boot camp! She spent a little less than a week staying at a dog kennel and working with a trainer. As usual, everyone there absolutely…
I wouldn't exactly call Netherland: A Novel an undiscovered gem. I mean, a certain President who just won a Nobel Peace Prize was reading it earlier this year. That's almost…
Does anybody remember when I used to write these? No? Me neither. But that's ok, I've resolved to start writing them again. I've been reading up a storm lately, so…
For the purposes of this here rant, let's all just go ahead and assume that I bought something that is both a) expensive and 2) embarrassing. So, we'll call it…
I'm going to be uncharacteristically serious here. I'm not sure where the lack of stupid jokes is coming from. I assure you, it won't last. I've been thinking a lot…
Dear Girl-Who-I-Almost-Ran-Over-Yesterday, I'm not sure if you are aware of this (you didn't appear to be all that aware of pretty much anything), but you very nearly qualified for a…