Looking forward to a very French 2011

As each year passes and a new one begins, most of us take time to reflect on what has been, what we have done and achieved and then to plan for what is to come. Mr. Fix It and I have enjoyed an extended break back in the UK to spend time with family and friends over Christmas and the New Year. We travelled through from our home in the Languedoc Roussillon by car, passing through 4 more countries en route for England, Eddie & Alfie sweetly ignorant of their increasing cultural experiences.

It occurred to us en route that we now feel very much a part of central Europe; that our perspectives have changed since we have been living down in the South of France for the best part of 2010. We feel as though we are on some sort of adventure and our connection with different European nationalities gives us great stimulus.

We achieved a great deal in this huge house in just under a year. A few weeks’ break from hard toil for Mr. Fix It can only have done him good: we come back refreshed, with renewed vitality and great anticipation for the year ahead. First stop: the kitchen! I confess to being extremely excited at the thought of finally opening my library of cook books and being able to rustle up a variety of dishes. Cassoulet, a hearty casserole from our region, has always been a favourite of mine and I have already decided that this will be my first “proper” meal once our kitchen is in. I will have to wait a little longer however: Mr. Fix It, ever in planning mode, is deciding on lighting, positions for appliances and sockets and heights of both worktops and “L” shaped breakfast bar. Yes, we still have a lot to do in the heart of our home but we will get there: watch this space!

Christmas in the snow with our family was a very welcome break. Mr. Fix It, ever the handyman, powered up a remote control helicopter on Christmas Day to entertain our small nephews and nieces although in truth, it was my 85 year old father (along with Mr. Fix It) who enjoyed it the most: there is a little child lurking deep inside us all!

The seasons in the Languedoc Roussillon are marked and individual and although it is quite a few degrees warmer than the UK and Northern Europe, the winter is still winter: crisp, cold dry air. One thing we notice though, since being away for a few weeks, is the sun: there is simply more of it here! Even a cold wintry day is usually bright and the sky is rarely overcast.

So we are happy to come back and set our minds to elevating this beautiful house to the level which it deserves. Even though the New Year has just begun, we already have several “bookings” from friends and family for the Spring and Summer months. Looking back for a moment and remembering visits from 2010, what we remember most is that without exception, each of our visitors has loved their time with us. Everyone, it seems, likes an adventure, many of us would like to do so. Perhaps it will be your time this year to buy your dream home in France?

I wish you much joy and happiness for the year ahead. I hope it brings you everything you choose.

We are happy to be back in this country of space and beauty. Mr. Fix It and I hope your dreams also come true in 2011.


Alexis
The Overseas Guides Company
Have a look at my website at: http://www.francebuyingguide.com/