La Maison des Mots - April 2025

The Solace of Spring

I have not written for a while.   With so much going on in our ever-evolving world, my thoughts have frozen into the cells of my addled brain; a brain that struggles mightily to make sense of it all.  

But Spring guides me now.  The sun and warmth aid as I endeavour to make better sense of the machinations of many of these powers that be.  Each day I dedicate a few hours reading and listening to the words of those that write intelligently, thoughtfully, and most importantly urge us, we the citizens of this beautiful world to be strong, rise up - be counted amongst the throngs that do not accept the changes occurring.   

Within my core lay a heavy heart.   My brother who has been ill for many years now finds himself in palliative care at Lionsgate hospital.   My big brother.  We had our share of trials.  Mostly because, being the youngest child, I was somewhat protected from a sad reality of ‘The Before Me’.    Being here, existing quietly in rural France, has both enlightened my perspective with regards to the sorrow my siblings and parents endured through their lives lived.   My personal pain too - I have allowed myself to identify and feel.   But it also hinders perspective when despair overwhelms – I feel powerless and alone in this (albeit beautiful) foreign land.

Most of my hours in the light and dusk of day, I retreat to my garden…

As in the early days of Covid, my garden provides me with occupation, communication with nature, a fulfilling experience that inspires me to let go and just be.   As I waltz into my elder years, I move considerately amongst the weeds and wonders that bloom.  I putter about, worry naught about what has been ticked off a mental list, and smile wide observing the birds flitting and twitting as they search for bits and pieces to ready their nests.  

There was a particularly delightful moment when I spotted a blue tit rummaging about the vasque that Minette lolls about in, and enjoys her daily brushing.  My habit is to brush her, then take the fur from the brush, and tuck it down the hole in the centre of the vasque.  Well, this blue tit was beaking into the hole and retrieving the fur for her nest.   Imagine all those peeping bairns in a nest of cat fur.  

When the tummy grumbles, I prepare a fine repas, and relax with my meal in the garden.  Then I retreat to the house to play a CD of classical accompaniment for my petite sieste.  This ritual, with Minette cuddling close, allows me to refresh for a late afternoon session – in the garden.    

My hands are dry and crackling, nails a sight of horror.  Spots of age and sun appearing on my skin.  

Oh my.   

The hat, sunglasses and gloves are always close by, but have a way of leaving my person for long spells of comfort in the shadows.   When I espy the cluster huddling together, I imagine these aiding implements are gossiping and lamenting the fact I do not care how much they strive to protect me! 

Soon, my first guest arrives for 8 days.  Then more arrive, and more, after that more, and more again.  I truly must Spring into action for the balance of Spring.   I am looking forward to the joy and comfort a full house provides.  So far, July and August are quiet for guests, but September is full on.     Many fear the Summers in France, but generally they are festive, and in this pastoral region, rarely too warm.

My garden will miss all the attention she will not receive when I am busy with humans, but hopefully the human guests will be enchanted with her allure, and rest within her walls.  And if they need solace, find it here, as I have.

Barbara-jo McIntosh       April, 2025

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Post Script

I attach photos of 2 aprons (tablier de cuisine) that a local woman who sews has fabricated for me.   

The Bistrot apron is a combination of vintage linen serviettes - hand monogramed with “G V” - and a long band to tie using the delightful ‘toile de jouy’ material.  I designed this Bistrot apron to be included for those who sign on for the cooking class week-end. 

The Bib apron is made with the ‘toile de jouy’ and has a practical pocket to hold your hand wipe and wooden spoon.

I am selling both items.   Bistrot apron is 45 euros + shipping, and the Bib apron is 75 euros + shipping.

You can reply directly to this email if interested in french cuisine cooking classes - or either of the apron options above.

(Perhaps a unique gift for mother’s day soon arriving…)