Month: November 2010

Halloween in the City of Light

We decided to utilize the long weekend of Halloween (All Saints Day is a public holiday in France) to visit Paris.  While there, we stayed with our friend C.C. who hosted a great Halloween Party.  We were also able to meet up with Tom, who was able to come down from Belgium for the weekend.

We spent a little time going to see a few sights.  For example, Anna requested we visit the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur on Monmartre.

Thanks to Tom for making this excellent image for us.

Monmartre is a great hill, with all of Paris laid out before you.

Tom and I,  while X was munching on my finger.

The three of us.

The Eiffel Tower

Now, back to the party and reason for being in Paris … Halloween!  These images are almost all made by Anna again.

The Pumpkin Patch!

The best looking part of the patch.  The big, squishy one isn’t here.

A fluffy pumpkin and Chiquita.  BTW, it was very good to see, Tom completely embraced his role.

Marilyn and Isaac from the Love Boat. (good catch!)

A Giant Pumpkin, the Wicked Witch of the West (AKA Elphaba who is just misunderstood), and a Cowboy.

Glinda the Good Witch of the South (in her HANDMADE dress).

The Queen of Hearts  (Alice had already gone down the rabbit hole).

Our little monkey (or petit singe in French).  Thanks to John and Jenni for the costume!  It’s perfect.

Our niece Gracie had a school project with a guy named Flat Stanley.  His mission is to travel all over the world and get his picture taken by unique and interesting landmarks.  So, we thought Flat Stanley might enjoy Paris.

He began with a stroll in the Tuileries Garden.

Then, played in the grass in front of the Louvre Art Museum.

Looked for someone’s hand to hold in front of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel with its Godess of Victory built in 1808 to commemorate Napoleon I’s military conquests.

Finally, he cruised past the most famous icon of Paris … the Eiffel Tower.  He made quite a little tour of the city.  Where will his next destination be?  Well, that is up to Flat Stanley.  Only he can say…

That also concludes our trip to Paris.  It was a great way to celebrate Anna’s golden birthday.

Until the next adventure…

–Jim

Lyon — a teaser post

A work trip took me up to Lyon.  Since it was pretty close, I could drive, which meant that Anna and Alexander were able to come too.

Although I had to work most of the time, we were able to enjoy a little of the city.  Enough to know we need to come back!  It’s known at the gastronomic center of France… we had a great meal the first night, but missed all the Lyon specialties.  While I was working, Anna and Alexander were able to explore the city.  The pictures in the post are all Anna’s.  I didn’t even have a camera with me.

They took a boat ride on the mighty Rhone.

Lyon has all the big city feel, but not as many of the problems.  Overall, it feels like a nice place to be. On the hilltop you can see the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière.  It was built shortly after France’s defeat by Prussia in 1870.  Some would say the Roman Catholic church built it simply to emphasize their strength.

A better view of the basilica.

On a boat.  They’re on a boat.

If you look close, the windows on this building are merely painted on … classical figures, artists and explorers.  Oh and a camera man toward the bottom.

The hills surrounding the Rhone valley and central Lyon provide great vantage point and make the city feel a little smaller.

The Man of the Rock, Jean Kleberger.  He was known as the “Good German.”  He was born in Germany in 1486, citizen of Geneva and Bern, Switzerland and died in Lyon in 1546.

So, that covers our brief time in Lyon.

Until the next time…

–Jim

Switzerland — First Snow

So, we took a weekend trip to one of our favorite mountain villages, Mürren.  While there, we had the good fortune to coincide with the first real snow of the season.  That meant that we spend most of our time indoors.  However, we did venture our for one extended hike.  These first images are from that hike.

As you might be able to tell from the image … Alexander was tucked inside my jacket.

The Fam. Out for a walk in the snow.

Here’s the desolate trail/road we walked along.  Although it’s about the width of a nice trail, it’s actually the road.  They don’t worry too much about wear and tear on the road.  Officially, cars are not allowed in Mürren … except the snow plow and occasional truck.

It many ways, the area is a throw-back to the 19th century.

Still gorgeous, even during the snowstorm.

As are all the waterfalls.

We solved the problem of Alexander’s cold hands with Anna’s gloves.  A touch too big still, but we’re working on right sized snow gear.  As you can see, he was pretty chill in the snow.  The snowflakes were hitting him in the face, and he didn’t seem to mind.  In fact, he fell asleep on the hike home (he’s pretty tired in this picture).

After a couple days and a foot of snow, we got back in the gondola and headed down the mountain.

This is the view that met us at the bottom.  We were right at the line where the snow turned into rain.  It made for an interesting contrast.

It almost seemed like a surprise spring snowstorm … but instead, it was the other end of the seasons.

A little further down the valley toward Lauterbrunnen, the fall colors were shining through.

Everything seemed lush and heavy.

The visible snow line.

More of the fall color.

The banks of the river were ablaze with color.  It was simply beautiful.

That concludes our brief sojourn to Switzerland.  Most importantly, now Alexander has been in snow … and liked it!  (this time, at least).

Until the next trip…

–Jim

Alexander — yoga, snowsuit and food!

As is starting to become a theme, these images of Alexander are a little out of chronological order.  But, I couldn’t resist.

So, we start off with a little baby yoga, courtesy of his guru (AKA, his mother).

He’s got Happy Baby pose down pat!

I came home one afternoon and Alexander was sitting on Anna’s lap … it was too cute, and here’s the result.

Anna was getting him packed for a weekend trip to Switzerland … this is his snowsuit.  His expression says it all.

Although he’s still working on his balance, X loves to stand.  Anna was actually trying to get him to sit down … he cutely refused.  Here he’s showing off his cute new outfit.  Thanks, C.C.!

So happy.  You can see the evidence of drool.  His teeth are coming in … just a question of when they break through.  By the amount of drool, you’d think any day now.  Of course, they may still be months away.

Go Air Force!  He doesn’t know what’s coming, but he’s about to eat his first solid food:  quince (or coing in French).  So, perhaps these images aren’t the best quality, but I hope the significance of the event outweighs that.  🙂

Hmmm … not so sure about this stuff.

OK, now I’m digging this fruit stuff.  It’s pretty good!

So good in fact, I want to use that blue and green thing!

Mmm… so happy.  We’re since tried a number of other foods, and fruit is definitely still his favorite.  Perhaps that has something to do with the sugar content.  He’s just like his parents.

I also made a short video of this episode.  I am going to do a few other posts, then will finish uploading the video … if these pictures left you wondering what it was like at Chez Gingras for Alexander’s first meal.

Next up will be a couple short trips we took in the past month.

Until then…

–Jim

Sponsoring USAFA Cadets

So, I’ve learned what it felt like for my sponsor family 14 years ago … and I have a new found appreciation for what they did for me.  Thank you Leitz Family!  I owe you … big time!

Part of my job here is to help the USAFA cadets who come on exchange.  That means I’m part AOC, part sponsor family, part teacher.  It’s a unique mix.  Fortunately for me, they are a good group.  I kinda enjoy hanging out with them.  🙂  OK OK, I really like hanging out with them.  However, unlike my sponsor family in Colorado, there’s more of a professional line to maintain.  Again though, the cadets are very good at respecting the rules.

Anyway, I’d like to introduce them to you.  Here they are:

Working clockwise from the back, left:  Scott, Laura, Dustin, Margo, Nancy, Kaeli, and Maggie.

Speaks for itself…

Yes, they like chocolate, can you tell?  This was the chocolate they brought over for Anna … fortunately, Anna didn’t mind sharing.

More fighting over the chocolate.

OK, so there they are.  Lots of fun and as long as they’re not getting in trouble, a pleasure to be around.  I’ve enjoyed getting to know them this semester.  I can only hope that future groups measure up.  We’ll see…

Up next will be more images of the little guy… Alexander of Aix-en-Provence.

Until then…

–Jim

Military Training … in the Alps

So, I had the opportunity back in September to watch a bit of military training by the French Air Force.  The cadets went up to the mountains as a part of their initial indoctrination. It was quite impressive to be a part of.  I appreciated the realistic training.  Of course it was grueling for those going through it, but then, all good military training is!

OK, on with the images.

As you can see, the region was quite beautiful.  Not too unlike Colorado, but certainly a slightly different feel.

Leah was my fellow observer of the training.

Although the weapons look realistic, they are Air Soft guns and completely harmless.

Take the hill!  Get the cows!  Moo.

Moving with a purpose.

The contrast of war…

Ready to move out.

Got milk?  Moo.

There’s little wonder why French cheese is so good.  Look at where the cows live!

Up and over the hill. But watch out… the other side has some cadre who are going to take you into a tough place … and they had to fight their way out.

This was a little like USAFA’s obstacle and assault courses combined.  For those of you who’ve been through it, you can image how much fun it is.  🙂 If you haven’t, well, check out the images below.

What are you doing??  Harder! C’mon, hit like you mean it!

Show me your war face!  Arrggghhh!

Into the merde.

Intense training … in a beautiful mountain setting.

Rolling down the hill.  Almost looks fun, don’t you think?

Nearly full-speed unarmed combat.

Really??  You want me to KEEP going??  C’mon, seriously…

A shoulder to rest for a moment.

You see those guys up there??  Go get ’em!!!

And she did!

Oh, it’s SOO cold!  Do I really have to get in here??

Ok, that sums up the training.  Although my comments are light hearted, the cadets really did a great job.  It was fun to watch and be a part of it.

So, until the next time!

–Jim

Aix-en-Provence — Dinner and a Mountain

Aix-en-Provence is the closest “big” city… so, we spend a lot of time there.  As such, we’ve found some amazing restaurants.  Our current favorite is Pierre Reboul, which we found thanks to the Michelin Guide again.  This time, it was recommended as a one-star (out of a possible three, but a big deal for the Michelin Guide … only the best restaurants get a star).

Our friend C.C. was visiting for a few days, so we decided it was time to try Pierre (spelled πR, but pronounced the same).  We fell in love with the place.  It had such originality and amazing presentation … plus, most importantly, it was delicious!

So, I hated to be that guy, but this meal was too tasty and beautiful to not make some images.  However, I used the smaller point and shoot and consequently, the image quality isn’t the best.  Hope you understand and don’t hold it against me.  🙂

We chose the 7-course meal.  Of course, each plate was very small, so we could actually finish it all.  This was the appetizer.  It looks like ravioli and lipstick, right?  Actually, the ravioli is chocolate and foie gras, and the lipstick is also foie gras.  Never would have guessed, and the taste … wow.  Amazing.

Caviar in a tin, with some ham on the side??  Nope, a new take on prosciutto e melone.   Yumm.

Lollipop with baguette?  No again.  This time, it’s a frozen carrot Popsicle with a crunchy, cheese filled pasty … matched with a demi-sec Champagne.  Magnificent!

The wines that the sommelier paired with each course really made the experience.  Fortunately, they were small pours, because the pairing was 8 glasses.

Here’s C.C. ready to enjoy her πR dessert.

This was the Fire and Ice course and was one thing that actually was as it appeared.

A little more fire from πR .

That finished our night at the best restaurant we’ve eaten at in a while (perhaps ever … but that’s debatable).  We said goodbye to C.C. and a few days later, turned to the mountain that inspired Paul Cézanne.

Through an arch in the small chapel on the top of Mont Saint Victoire.

Our friends Leah and Anton climbed with us…  Leah works with me, and Anton was down visiting.  It was a nice climb … even X made the climb (in his carrier on my chest).  Alexander was definitely the youngest on the trail that day.

Leah and Anton again.

While the mountain was Cézanne’s inspiration, here is mine.

Ok, that does it for the Aix post.  Up next will be a bit of military training…

Till then…

–Jim

Nîmes and its amazing Roman amphitheater

Nîmes has a long, rich history… It was a former Roman colony that rose in importance and wealth in the first two centuries of the current era.

As such, a huge amphitheater was built to hold gladiator contests (among other contests and spectacles).  The following images our from our visit with Tom and Olga.

The amphitheater was built between the years 90 and 120 CE.  In typical fashion for these huge structures, it became a fortified city in the middle ages.  Then, in the mid-19th century, it was converted into a bull fighting arena.

During the second and third centuries, hunts, gladiator fight and public executions were all held here.

Olga proved to be quite bold.  When she asked me to take her picture by the edge, I didn’t realize she intended to go that far!

Here’s a little better perspective of just how precarious her seat was.  Good things those Romans knew how to build a sturdy building!

As he often does, Tom offered a helping hand … from a safer distance.  🙂  Not to worry, it all turned out well. Tom is a jumpmaster afterall.

The happy couple from their commanding view of the amphitheater.

Olga decided she liked living on the edge and made the circuit on the top stones of the amphitheater.

Tom and Olga.

Anna, Alexander and I… although X is understandably hiding from the bright sun.

A view through one of the archways.

After the amphitheater, we had lunch at a Rick Steves’ recommended restaurant (it was pretty good, but it was no Michelin guide recommendation).  Then, we happened upon this wedding ceremony.  The newlyweds had just got in their car (in front of City Hall … on the left).

Off they went to start their lives together.  It was very cute.

That also concluded our short visit to Nîmes and sadly, our visit with Tom and Olga.  So, we parted ways and headed home back in Provence.

Next up will be a couple sights in Aix-en-Provence.

Until then…

–Jim

Bandol — wine of Provence

We’ve become believers in the Michelin guide.  With only one exception, it has steered us to some amazing restaurants in France.  The one we visited in Bandol was no exception.  Le Clocher was recommended as the good balance of price and quality … and it lived up to expectations.  One thing we’ve had to get used to in France.  Food is expensive, but you truly pay for what you get.  I read somewhere (I know I should cite my source, but I don’t recall at the moment) that the French pay more per person for food than anyone else in the world.  I believe it, but it’s worth the price!

After lunch, we also visited the famous wine appellation of Bandol. We stopped into the Château Pradeaux for a quick tasting.  After which, we strolled through the grounds to appreciate the ripening grapes, berries and olives.

In Bandol, the red wine is capable of aging for a long time.  In fact, the 2005 Château Pradeaux we bought won’t be ready to drink until 2013.  The main varietals Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault, and Carignan.  However, it’s the Mourvèdre that permits the long aging process and gives red Bandol its character.

An aggregate berry, and you know how I feel about those … I haven’t met one I don’t like.  🙂

Getting ripe in the golden sun.

The ubiquitous olive trees.

And even more ubiquitous vines.

After the walking tour of the vineyard, we headed home via Marseilles.

Next up is our trip with Tom and Olga to Nîmes.

Until then…

–Jim

The Calanques

We again visited the gorgeous Calanques.  This time it was with our friends Tom and Olga. Since we’d visited Cassis several times, we decided to try La Ciotat and take a longer boat ride to see more of the Calanques … turned out to be a great plan, with lots of beautiful bluffs.

Off we go!

The Eagle’s Beak.

Amazing coastline, don’t you think?

Would love to live in this house.

The Dog, with lots of kayaks below.

Cap Canaille.

The vertical walls of these Calanques are quite imposing.

Perhaps next trip, we’ll go on a sailboat and take a multi-day trip.

Anna and X hanging out on the boat.

He’s a little sneezer … kinda like his father.

Just chillin.

So, that does it for the trip to the Calanques.  Next up is lunch and wine tasting in Bandol … home of delicious rosé wines and robust reds that need 8-10 years to mature.

–Jim