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Looking back on some of the trip highlights, we won't forget the glorious food.


Forrest Cobb writes the following:

« Bon Anniversaire : A French Birthday Party »

After arriving in Aix aboard the TGV, I was soon whisked away with my new family (for two weeks at least) to a beautiful resort at the base of the mountain known as Les Baux. After a wonderful afternoon poolside, playing cards with French teenagers, the boys and I went back to our room to “suit up” for the evening’s festivities: a Birthday party for their much-beloved grandmother. We all put on our jackets and ties, and paraded—somewhat stiffer than how we’d walked just an hour earlier out at the pool—to the cars. A short drive to the restaurant ensued, where we gathered around the table for the gift-giving ceremony.
I did not realize that, at least in this family, you receive gifts from the Birthday-girl/boy. Even though I had only been with the family for a couple of hours, I was presented with a small bottle of olive oil. I was struck by how welcoming these people were, on an occasion that Americans usually use to celebrate themselves. We enjoyed a delicious four-course meal—which included rabbit and lamb.
I was replete by the time dessert came around, but I couldn’t refuse the Birthday cake of course. This turned out to be the most surprising part of the entire experience. Instead of the cakey, half-inch-of-icing-cakes Americans enjoy, their Birthday cake was closer to custard or a flan. With a fruit filling and topped with whipped cream (some things don’t change), it was nothing short of decadent, and all of this wonderful food ensured hours of pleasant sleep that night.
Although very different from American Birthday celebrations, the French Birthday party was an enlightening experience, and I am honored that I was invited to join in their family’s celebration!"

Au revoir -- but not adieu!

The time comes to leave Aix, but we will surely see our new friends again. We hope they will visit us in Atlanta, and we shall definitely return to Provence. As we say "au revoir," but certainly not "adieu."