FRANCIVERSARY
Franciversary
April 14, 2026 marked the first anniversary of our Montpellier adventure. The expression “time flies” applies; it hardly seems possible that Russ and I and, of course, Zoey and Coco have been here for a full year.
The girls and Russ & Leslie too…
TRAMS
Upon reflection, one of the most interesting milestones is neither of us have driven a car in a year. Public transportation is free to residents in Montpellier and Russ and I have taken full advantage of its availability. We’ve gone from having no clue which tram to take, to mastery of everything from taking multiple trams on one outing to knowing which tram line gets to the same place fastest.
COMMUNITY
We have a great deal of gratitude for the American community for embracing us with friendship, mentorship and oodles of referrals for English speaking contractors. Or French ones who are not afraid of Google Translate.
Ladies Who Lunch
And friends from all aspects of our life have been there for moral support. Whether we connect daily or as the mood strikes, keeping in touch has been a lifeline. “Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold.”
What’s next in 2026 ?
A lot has already transpired. 2026 opened with a grand adventure to Barcelona with my high school friend Kelly and her husband Joel. Russ and I love Barcelona and Kelly and Joel made that even more special. They arranged for a private tour of the major Gaudi sites, including Sagrada Familia and Park Guell.
MOCO
And a first for me, Kelly and Joel led us to MOCO, kind of a private modern art museum. Fabulous art in small bites so for those of you with museum burnout, a perfect way to spend an hour or so.
Palau de la Musica Catalana
A highlight for me, its stained-glass ceiling was exceptional, although one could say that about the entire hall. We were lucky to see a rehearsal in progress that let us experience the great acoustics. Russ and I fully intend to visit Barcelona again, and next time see an actual performance.
Back in Montpellier.
2026 adventures include a day at the L’Open Occitanie, an indoor ATP tennis tournament held immediately after the Australian Open. No big names but a place where future stars are made. Past participants include Janik Sinner.
Throwing dinner parties became our winter social outreach and great fun was had. Scheduling became an issue, as I managed to catch every bug that Montpellier has to offer. Like winter, my streak of maladies seems over (as I knock on wood…) and with the advent of spring more opportunities to enjoy adventures are on the horizon. I look forward to sharing them with you!
Thank you for bringing us on your adventure with you! Truly a joy!
I love sharing your remarkable journey and living vicariously through your adventures, big and small and everything in-between ❤️
Yay, it’s back!
We really enjoyed our time with you, and Montpellier itself, and shockingly, Joe seems willing become “neige-oiseaux!” Not this summer, but hopefully in 2027. And I have GOT to find ways to get to Montpellier without going through Paris!
Jeanne and i love reading your blogs! You two are leading a charmed life there. I hope some day to come there ! 😉
Wonderful! So glad you’re feeling better and I can’t wait to hear about (and see beautiful photos of) more future adventures!!