Well, I’m back here, six years after my last and only previous visit, and for six Sundays instead of three.
The first shock was the prices in the local supermarket, Le Petit Casino. Back home at Aldi, I reckon an average shopping trip works out at £1.40 to £1.60 per item. Here it was 3 €. Admittedly, almost everything I bought I couldn’t or wouldn’t have got in Aldi!
Saturday was very hot, and finished with a garden party where most people stayed in the shade of the house, or indoors.
Yesterday for the service I wore a smart red chasuble – summer weight, but I was glad to take it off afterwards. It then clouded over, but after a busy week I was pleased to stay indoors.
I have spread out maps on the dining table, remembering some of the walks I did last year, and planning some new ones. Some people at church have expressed an interest, and as they have cars we wouldn’t be dependent on public transport. (I was offered the use of a car, but not having driven since 2009 I declined the offer.)
Today Monday it’s overcast and much cooler. Since most shops are closed, it was a good day for a peaceful stroll around Pau, checking out bus and train routes and the location of an open-air theatre and the Museum des Beaux-Arts.
I’ve just been asked to take Communion to an elderly priest, sone time text week. When I was here before, he preached for what he thought would be the last time, and then invited me to join him and his friends for a meal, with wine way beyond my normal budget.
Tomorrow I am interviewing one of the Diocese in Europe candidates preparing for BAP stage 2.
emeritablog: life after work 