“I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” ~ Jimmy Dean

Today we decided to wander part of Avignon on our own. The Mistral winds were blowing forcefully today, almost enough to blow you over. They are the cold and dry strong wind in southern France that blows down from the north along the lower Rhône River valley toward the Mediterranean Sea. It may blow continuously for several days at a time, with velocities that average about 45 miles per hour. Despite the strong winds we carried on, walking canes in hand, and traveled a couple of miles into the city. We stopped of course for a cappuccino and watched the world race by.

“They say the best way is to just live one day at a time. If you try to live the seven days at a time, the week will be over before you know it.”

~ Sally Brown, from Peanuts on living in the moment

We wandered for a couple of miles remembering that we had to retrace our steps to get back to the ship. We bought some French chocolates and walked over uneven cobblestone passing churches and stores along the way. We took our time and walked about a city square with restaurants and a museum and a lovely carousel.

We spent the windy afternoon relaxing and reading and sharing wine and cheese and “Jesus sausage” with Tom and Barbara Haas and booking a future cruise, go figure! It’s been a relaxing day though I am getting the “need to go home jitters.” We still have one more day of eating and drinking and making friends and touring, oh did I mention drinking? Tomorrow we head to Arles where we disembark on Thursday to begin the journey home. Tonight there is a farewell cocktail and dinner party and we are of course dressed to participate.

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” ~ Mae West

“May the wind always be at your back and the sun upon your face, and the winds of destiny carry you aloft to dance with the stars.” ~ George June