Shared Illusions

Ooo-la-la, Swiss-French style

I love standing on the stairstep looking out this window. I love this town. It is beyond charming. For my Three Pines friends, it’s the closest I’ve come to thst village. Liz had a “coup de foudre” moment when she visited, walked into an archway and saw this…

We arrived here last Thursday the 5th. We are staying until Wednesday morning when we depart for Dijon – back to France 🇫🇷!

My friend Liz moved here last October. She has Swiss citizenship, as do her two daughters who also live in Switzerland, albeit in a different town. They are all three delightful to be with. Liz made a point of introducing us to many of the local specialties.

We walked into history in this Chateau. An introduction to he four families that lived here, how it became an artist gathering place,  rooms furnished according to the times, overtime…built in the 11thC.

It had interactive elements such a tableaux that “came to life” and talked to you, like this one…

And one where table setting pieces were missing and you had to select what went where. We did miserably and were thus instructed to educate ourselves.

In all respects, this was a most enjoyable experience. We may even have convinced Liz’s daughters of its worthiness.

Saturday we got to see a 1200 year old illuminated Bible in amazing condition. Well, it was open to two pages, protected within an acrylic box, for five minutes, five people at a time. It was not enough time to suss out the fine details, but enough time to recognize the artistry, patience, and devotion of the scribe.

Pentecost Sunday. Liz sang with the choir, so we attended. There were two clergy, one whom i could comprehend quite well.  I enjoyed his talk regarding breath and spirit. The Abbaye is not a consecrated Catholic Church any longer, but ecumenical.

Following the service, we immediately went to a special meal at the Prieuré which occurs about four-five times a year.  It’s buffet style,  but the offerings are widely diverse and gourmet quality. Charlie was surprised at how much I ate…and ate.

I did go hiking in the woods afterwards and it was glorious. Trails abound.

Monday was a hand in town day. Walked to a waterfall

But the really nice waterfall was a Tuesday trip, back to La Sarraz.

It was so cool, so fresh, so inviting…

Romainmôtier was a nicely timed quiet interlude. Loved spending time in a small community,  walking the dogs, spending a bit of time at each of the four main businesses: two restaurants,  brew pub, and bakery. An épicerie is the only business needed, and one may be opening soon. 🤞

Off to the Dijon market!