Future change brings back past memories

Change is inevitable and living the nomadic lifestyle that we do, I would say that it is guaranteed. I mentioned a few days ago that the wind of change was beginning to blow (always makes me think of the scene in Mary Poppins when the wind changes and she comes floating in with her umbrella!) and it looks like it's building up into a steady breeze.

So it seems that it's time to pack the ol' bags again and load them in the car. Not just yet though, we still have about a month to go. But when change is on the horizon it brings with it a very strange feeling. Where I once felt a part of the area, one of the 'locals', I now feel as if I've been shifted away, like floating on a parallel plane, seeing and hearing everything but not really taking part.

It's unavoidable to feel a small sense of belonging to a place, no matter how short a time I've been there. I've met people, made friends, joined in and become part of the group. Now it's time to start to sever the bonds and drift away. I feel excitement for the new adventure, every place has something to offer and experiences to live, but sadness at the same time. It's true that a fragment of who I am gets left behind and I hope that I remain a pleasant memory to the people I've met as they do for me.

I suppose that the best part is that I get to meet so many different people and have contacts far and wide. That's certainly something to be proud of and cherish. And so as not to wallow in feelings of self indulgence, I thought that I would look back and see what I was doing this time last year. This is one of the things that I love about taking photos - the memories they provoke are priceless!

Château

Inner courtyard

This time last year I was working in the northwest of France. And in July visited the town of Châteaubriant. The château rises up majestically in the middle of the town and is open to visitors to wander around. It was a beautiful day and the architecture is so typically French. I remember that we went on a Sunday so it was quiet, perfect for strolling and soaking up the atmosphere.

The river Chère

Châteaubriant

The town was filled with these lovely buildings and a river ran through the heart of it. It's lovely to be able to look back and remember this visit, another experience that brings back a smile. I feel very fortunate to be able to see so many different places (even if sometimes I feel like my life resembles a travelling fair!).

Hasta pronto!