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Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Old Village of Monteux in Provence



(Porte d'Avignon)

Along the D942  about 20 km northeast of Avignon in Provence
and 5 km from Carpentras,
lies the medieval Old Village of Monteux.
One enters through this ancient doorway,
 the old Avignon Porte  along fortified ramparts 
which was the original entry to the village.




Next to the porte sits this sweet 'dolphin' fountain. 





On my way back to Blauvac in Provence from Mary Magdalene's cave this summer,
but not quite yet ready for my adventure to end,
I stopped in this little town to explore
and found the most exquisite village
of painted canvas on old buildings.

I parked near the porte,
walked through 
and got lost in this surprise maze of medieval streets. 

And here are just a few of what greeted me! 



Basket weaver. 



Everyone wanted to get in on the charming paintings and flowers. 




Barrel maker and repairer.




Tailor.




A very Provencal scene. 




Cabinet maker.




Bibliotheque. 




What a delightful surprise this little medieval village turned out to be! 
Something niggled at me each time I drove past the exit sign for Monteux 
on my way to Avignon or Aix-en-Provence,
telling me to take a look. 
I finally had the time, being on my own
and not on a schedule 
(usually of sightseeing with a group 
or picking someone up at the Avignon train station)
and I listened to that little nudge. 
Sometimes beauty and magic happen when we listen and respond. 

*********


I was away at my writing retreat on the northern Oregon Coast this past week
working on my novel
and for those who are interested,
I've also been working on the post about my trip to MM's cave. 
But for now, enjoy these photos from Provence.
And thanks for coming on this little side-trip to Monteux with me!



(All Photos copyright: Kirsten Steen)

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Rest in Eternal Peace, Wayne Dyer


I am still in shock and deep grief ...
at the death of one of my favorite 
inspirational teachers
...as are many.

As I read the words of others,
I only begin to understand the depth
with which he helped to change the universe.

He touched so many people
looking for answers and trying to find their way,
helping them to recognize their own power
to make their own change. 

The above quote that I found from OmTimes
and put over the beauty of Mt. Shasta,
one of my favorite mountains,
I think best describes his mission,
his loving way of helping others. 

A gracious soul,
a transforming beam of love and light 
to all he reached.

May eternity bless you 
for all you have been and shared. 
And may the magnificent shooting star of your life
continue to sprinkle miracle dust over us.
And you...

May you rest in beautiful peace.


(Photo copyright: Kirsten Steen)