The Daily Diary of a Wandering Restaurateur
Another Close Call
We almost did something today.
Fortunately, we came to out senses before we sacrificed our parking spot ... but it was close. The housekeeper was coming by
around 9am, so we'd planned to drive an hour or so to Pont du Gard, an incredible multi-level Roman aquaduct built in the
first century and still standing solid. But the sky was dark gray this morning and the weather report called for rain in the
Pont du Gard area. So despite our Seattle sensibilities, we decided to play safe and try it a few days from now when the
weather gods promise more sunshine.
Besides, there were weighty tasks to be performed right here. First, we had to take the recycling to the proper receptacles
about four blocks away. Then we had to pick up fresh croissants and get our morning cappuccino. Then, of course, we had
to recycle our stale bread with the ducks (and the one duty swan) in the downtown canal. So much to do, so little time.
Lunch was the remaining chicken and potatoes from yesterday's market ... and since the bakery is closed from 1-3, there was
no point in going back out until later. Gelato again? I had a couple of days' worth of trip reports to catch up on, though,
so the time wasn't exactly wasted. We did go out later for a short walk, a stop at the market and my second visit of the day
to the bakery to pick up some quiche for dinner. This is a far cry from stocking up at Costco ... and I like it!
On the downside, though, my new knee is giving me some minor pain so extended hikes are not a first choice. I'm hoping the
discomfort is just from uneven pavements and not an omen of more serious issues. But the Seahawks won big again yesterday and
qualified for the NFL playoffs, so all is right with the world!
I continue to be amazed and delighted by the presence of water everywhere you turn in this town, sometimes in the most unexpected places. (BTW, that's our apartment on the ground floor immediately opposite the water wheel.) I'd love to find some information on how this incredible web of channels developed over time, particularly since many of the channels flow under the buildings. Was the building there before the channel was put through? Does anyone have to put on a scuba tank and check under the houses from time to time? What sort of on-going maintenance is required and who does it? I suspect I'd have to be much more fluent in French to find out those answers, but perhaps someone at the tourist office ...
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