giverny and rouen

Bonjour!

Yesterday was France's national Bastille Day. I absolutely loved it because the festivities felt a lot like America's own Fourth of July (my favorite holiday), complete with fireworks, food, and music. The night was very long as we found a dance party in Honfluer's center square.

Candy from a stranger (don't worry mom, I gave mine to Matt haha):


Taking a break from the party:


Today was our first excursion away from Honfluer! After breakfast we packed up and took the bus to Giverny: the home of Monet. We took a tour of the gardens, his home, and the lily ponds. The lily ponds were definitely my favorite; I can understand why Monet spent so much time there because it was so beautiful and peaceful...aside from all the meandering tourists.
Carla, you would have spent days in the garden...it was so intense even though a lot of flowers aren't currently blooming. The bee factor was enough to keep me away though and Max and I freaked out when a little French boy started petting a bumble bee in front of us.
Interesting facts: Monet had nine children and his house is decorated with nothing but Japanese paintings. At one point I felt like I was in a comic book because the walls were just filled with art and frames.

The outside of the house:


Lily ponds:


More lilies:


Our second stop was Rouen: the city Joan of Arc was tried and burned. Of course there is a museum in her honor near the square she was killed, but most of the town around it has become a shopping mall. Weird to see modern and historic culture intertwined like that.

The square:


A shockingly inappropriate shot glass:


I hope you're all doing well! Postcards are on their way :)

Currently listening to: Keep it loose, Keep it tight by Amos Lee
Au Revoir!

xoxo
Caitlin
caitlinboyd72@gmail.com