Tell Me a Story

 In Bayeux France, where I am right this cozy winter moment, at the onset of 2026, I’m reminded of a promise I made right around Thanksgiving ...

Lydie, my soul-sister and angel for the City of Light, hosted me in Paris on my way to Bayeux. We spoke at length about how much we love storytelling. We made a pact, that we would share more stories – in writing - from now on, and coach each other as we did so.

We see that, as yet for me, that hasn’t exactly happened as planned ... however, I do recall that I had pure intentions to make good that pact in early December. It was a day when my WiFi went out. After that, I got very busy with cookie baking, and December life. The writer in me took a break, except for daily journaling.

Now it feels like a good time to tell a story, or maybe more than one.

Tell me a story was the catch-phrase that brought me to Bayeux, Normandie in the first place. Three years ago, I was looking for a place after my idyllic stay in a Paris apartment of six weeks was going to end. Long story short (read the longer story here; it’s really good), I landed in Bayeux to spend my first winter. I’ve returned each winter since because I really love it here.

So maybe that’s my first story. The next also takes place in Bayeux and I really must share it, it’s really special.

The day I arrived Bayeux end of November, I made what-I-call-rounds, to say bonjour to my favorite people, and also to a precious tree that I call my own.

Salome', in his late autumn glory.

Salome’ is my name for him, because where he majestically reigns is Salome’s Garden. So far, I’d only seen Salome’ in the winter when he is entirely void of leaves. This visit surprised me to the point of bursting into tears, when I saw his gorgeous autumn leaves at this hour. I’d never seen him dressed like this! 

I was so delighted I guess I couldn’t help crying with joy. I’ve been visiting him as daily as possible. We have conversations, sometimes in French, and when no one is looking, I give him hugs and kisses (neither of us prefers public displays of affection ;). Our time together makes every day complete for me.

One other short story for now ... there’s a new doggie in my life! My dear friends Stephane and Vinz own the gorgeous Le Vaisselier  boutique in town, and got a new puppy, Archie, on New Years Day. I’ve named myself Auntie Di already! When I brought him, his sister Amy, and his mama Bella homemade doggie treats for Christmas, they were extremely well-received!  (The doggie-family’s owners have two boutiques in town.)

We all can’t wait to see how Life will unfold for my guys and their new baby. I just know that I will keep ingredients on hand for making treats from now on :))))

While I get this posted right now, I invite you to kindly stand by for more in my Tell Me a Story series. I hope to fill up these pages as intended, merci for reading, and Happy New Year !

Here are Archie, Amy, and their mama Bella looking on, the first day I met them.