Out in the yard pumping up my bike tires yesterday morning, I heard the thunder. It was a little overcast, but I was on a mission...a mission to begin regular early morning bike rides again. I'd written a snail to my Dad and was telling him how much I missed riding my bike.
As soon as I finished, I knew I had to go.
It was Sunday and early, so I knew there would be no 7am buses on the road and probably very few cars. Heading to Montbrun the clouded causse was spectacular. And then there it was...one huge drop on my nose. That didn't bode well for my trip in to Cahors that day, so I figured I needed to be prepared.
The ride continued to be glorious. I stopped to scoop a few of these clouded causse shots, but then hot-footed it to Montbrun already thinking about where I could run for cover if necessary. I remembered the perfect spot, an old roadside restaurant/bar that is still vacant and has been ever since I've been here in 2002.
It always catches my eye, this time it kept me dry when it poured! The vine covered trellis roof was either just beginning to bloom or was at the end of blooming. Either way, it was the perfect spot for me, AND it did pour.
From under my semi-protection, I enjoyed just being in this place and wondering what it had been like in its heyday. I envisioned a terrace full of tables full of people with some food, but mostly drinks. It's such a pretty setting and on the road, but I know enough about the short high seasons and French regulations to know that it would still be difficult to make a go of a business in this spot. That didn't stop me from thinking it would be fun to do until those realities sunk in! Keeping it in the real world can be a challenge sometimes!
The downpour did let up to a drizzle, so I decided to push on home. It was still dark and overcast. I had my phone/camera in a little purse that I was ready to slip into my boobs if we did downpour one more time.
Luckily, I hit the Chatette driveway just as it looked like it was about to dump again. As it turned out, I still had time to catch a few shots of the cloudy valley and over the river to go with my cloudy causse shots.
The many moods of this place astound me.
I no sooner got inside, et voila...another downpour. I dried off a bit, scooped my book, and my storm scared Sammie Cat joined me on my knee...an all-round beautiful start to a rainy Sunday Montbrun morning feeling grateful, very blessed and protected in the wonderful life of ours!
Happy Monday!