Bargains in the Aude
La Rentrée (back to school) has finally arrived. For me this now heralds that delightful stretch of rising at 6am. I said delightful ? This morning the sky was a clear deep inky blue with stars dotted alarmingly bright, galaxies stretched far away and the hooting of an owl nearby breaking the eerie silence.
Soon the deluge of walkers, artists and writers will emerge all seeking inspiration and tranquility from the region that has played host to the sun seeking crowd of holiday makers in the high season of July and August. Now the house hunters also appear clutching details from the numerous Immobiliers (Estate Agents) of the Languedoc. Their aim, to find that elusive bargain tucked away, an undiscovered gem waiting to be snapped up complete with beautiful original features. Add onto that a spectacular view, preferably of the Pyrenees, a discreet and unspoilt garden with room for a pool, situated in a small village closeby to Carcassonne airport so they can jet in regularly courtesy of Ryanair's bargain air fares. 'How did you find this wonderful house' ? is a regularly asked question. 'I rather think it found me' is the reply !
Meanwhile the Autumn is a time for new ventures, exciting projects and unexplored horizons. I'm hoping to combine my love of all things old and shabby chic alongside photography and writing to launch Sally's Chateau, an on-line site of items painstakingly sourced down here in the Aude, the only criteria being that I have to love it ! This sounds good until I have to remind myself that with a 20 room house I do have a tendency to hoard somewhat and the phrase 'I'll just keep this little find' rings true.
Meanwhile the day has dawned fresh and clear, so rather than sit here working, the impulse to go and savour the moment with an invigorating walk in the countryside right here on the doorstep of Le Chateau, beckons.
Bargains in the Aude will have to wait.
Comments
Actually I am feeling positively old and shabby myself this morning.......alas not chic...
Crystal xx
Ah, la rentree - I think this is my favourite time of year. House to yourself at last and the weather's still, for the most part, lovely. Wish I could come for a visit - you're definitely on my list!
And I don't believe a word about you lot being shabby but not chic, and old ? pooey all in the mind.
I tried to leave you a message this morning (it is still barely Thursday here as I write) but my server kept failing me.
What was it I wanted to tell you? That every time I read your blog I want to escape from this city. That you are incredibly gifted with words and pictures. That you should indeed pursue the idea of a shop that could make use of your wonderful eye. And, that I wish that I could be along with you as you go to local markets and find the treasures that you do find.
I think that was about it.
Best wishes. xo
Calmer now in the village, but we are still full. Looking forward to time without guests - always feel a little on edge when guests are around.
Looks like we are all having a bit of an Indian Summer now . . .
Camilla.x