24 May - Paris to Perpignan

   Away we went to the train station by 8 am.  We wanted to allow plenty of time and as it was it took us 45 minutes to get there.  We still had plenty of time since the train didn't leave until 9:25 am.  That is our train in the far, far background.  Our conductor spoke no English but the man of the couple in front of us did and he assured us we would not miss Perpignan as the train does not go past that stop.  Fortunately I thought to buy a sandwich and apple in the train station as there was no food service on the train due to a strike.  That was fine as we had a couple cherry tomatoes and some chips left from another time too.  We saw a lot of the countryside on the way here.  The trip was uneventful and we saw René and Odette the moment the train pulled in.  This is a dream fulfilled for me to return and see my cousins again, so I thank you Lord for the opportunity.    

   It was a short ride to their lovely home, it is beautiful like a small resort.  Their yard is lovely, there is a lovely pool, birds singing, pet turtles, a patio that is covered, more like a summer room or winter room, I am not sure, but it is beautiful.  You can see the Catalan fabric used for the table cloth and other areas in this covered patio area.  We had a refreshing cold drink and then we made a short trip to Castelnou.  A fort built in 963 (yes, that is only three digits).  Parts have  been renovated after a fire and other destruction but it was very interesting and a mild activity to complete our day.  Then we came back to their home and René grilled both lamb chops and beef kabobs.  Odette fixed ratatouille (vegetables fixed a delicious way and she will give me the recipe) and rice to go with this but first we had a delicious salad of avocado, shrimp, tomatoes, and lettuce.   We enjoyed our dinner and also dessert of strawberries.  René tried also to use my French calling card and we still could not make it work.  He will attempt to call the company tomorrow.  I did call Mom from his phone but she was not home, but at least I could leave a message.  Both Odette and I feel a bit frustrated we cannot communicate better but we can a little.  She is so sweet and gracious.  I am sure René will be very tired of translating before we leave.  I must say it feels good to lay down in bed tonight, even if we didn't do a lot today.        

 

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