I promised this video a long time ago. 😅 And I have sat on it, stewing over the content. Originally almost an hour-long, I hardly ever create this much imagery in a single location. In fact, I had travel plans to continue along the Normandy coastline for another two days, at least. But when I landed in Honfleur, I was breathless, restive. I called my husband overwhelmed, almost nauseous, claiming I was going to be sick right there on the spot. Because she was so utterly perfect.
I knew this could happen. I worked so hard to find, discover, learn, and earn my corner of Bretagne. But there was always that FOMO niggling little bug in the back of my mind, asking, “But, what if?” And here she was, a new contender in the game. You see, for me, I love cool, cold, grey, moody weather. I love expansive white beaches, fresh seafood, no bugs, no heat, just fresh, crisp air in a romantic iconic French setting.
Honfleur gobsmacked me. I followed a small two-lane road down from the valley ridge into town, and the main street led directly to the historic port. My jaw dropped as I took in the living painting in front of me. I couldn’t find my parking spot fast enough. After checking into my flat, I immediately ran back out with the girls. The port, the streets, the ships, the light, the Versailles-esque park that was dog-friendly and led out to the pristine beach next to where the river Seine dumps into the English bay (take a deep breath). IS THIS REAL?? I was so in love I was sick, physically.
The following day, the girls asked to go outside early. I quickly threw on my shoes and stepped out the exterior door… and straight into the Saturday marché. “Is this real?” I asked myself for the umpteenth time since I arrived.
In the end, I admit I am pining after Honfleur, romanticizing her in my mind. But truly, at the end of the day, there is nothing like home (as Dorothy would say). And she is my golden girl: PARIS.
Video accessible on my IGTV & YouTube channel.
With all my love,
Bisous and big hugs from France,
Shannon