Guérande (2): St Aubin's Church

At the centre of the old town is St Aubin's Church. Apparently there is an excellent view of the salt marshes from the top but we couldn't gain access. Our B&B was just around the corner.

Outside the church there are some intriguing sculptures, depicting traditional activities where once was the graveyard

Magnificent gargoyles...

...and wonderful stained glass windows inside...

...with lights playing on the floor of the nave.

Back into daylight and the bunting is still going up!

Guérande (1)

What a lovely surprise earlier this month when Tine booked us an overnight stay in Guérande, Brittany. She finished her campsite duties at 2pm and as soon as she got home off we sped, picnic at the ready!

The moat still exists for about half of its original length, a lovely setting for the walls

There was much preparation for a medieval weekend a couple of days after our visit

Narrow streets aplenty

A beautiful teuille (linden or lime tree)...

...whose leaves and flowers are often made into lime-tree tea

Wild flowers and old buildings

Back to the moat in reflective mood

Garden update

I'm sure you're all wondering where we're up to in our garden.

Hope you like the new look me as a scarecrow (and no, I'm far from being this skinny)!

The first figs are forming on the tree that we moved last year. Fingers crossed...

Not yet the squash jungle but the first pumpkins and courgettes are on their way. Still awaiting the butternut squash. 

It's been a real pleasure to eat our own artichokes this year, small but perfectly formed

The French beans are suddenly getting into climbing mode after a slow start. Early flowers are on so we should be harvesting soon. 

Look closely and you can spot baby peppers

My photo doesn't do the hydrangea justice. C'est magnifique!

I'm sure one of my gardening friends will let us know what these are called. There are home-grown livingstone daisies (mesembryanthemums) behind, but they're taking their time.

Meanwhile with Tine's birthday and Father's Day to celebrate this weekend, where better for apéritifs?

Alfie on the beach

Firstly, a big thankyou to Nad for most of the recent photos. As I type this Alfie is back again, but this time with his Papa Simon, and the weather is not being very friendly at all. Hopefully conditions will improve...

So I can't be blamed for the WHS (Wobbly Horizon Syndrome)!

He really was in awe and there were practically no waves! 

As always sandcastle making was a preferred activity, and not TOO much sand was eaten. Things are improving!

Hopefully we'll be able to have a dip next time, young sir!

Alfie gets about & cousinly love

Young Alfie got out and about during his few days here.

On arrival we went straight to visit Cynthia & Sacha, and you can see Alfie's reaction to his little cousin 

Alfie's obviously perfecting the casual look...

...and his water painting skills.

At the Starfish there's a drink for everyone...

...and a barrel for a not-so-sure Alfie... 

...but feeling better with Tonton Matt!

It was a bit cool in our pool but Alfie's made of tough stuff

The temperature at the campsite was better...

...but a lovely cuddle with Sacha warmed him up afterwards

Alfie comes to stay

He obviously heard that Sacha had his own blog post last time, so Alfie flew in especially (bringing his Maman with him)!

First job: get my hair cut!

I was very well behaved...

...but didn't like the dryer much.

At least I can see now in Papy's car

Not only do Mamie & Papy have a new swing...

..but also a ball pool tent!

Look, I've found my old friend Canton the Duck

All this enjoying myself is making me sleep!

There's more to come, folks!