Though I was supposedly the one doing the training, I managed to mistake an orchid for a lily, and luckily Charlotte was present to share her expertise...
...and her picnics...
and some coffee...
By the way, meet John Lichtenberg, a Manhattan native who has lived as many years as there are keys on a piano. And he has no plans of slowing down, with other travels in mind. I am always inspired by older travellers who join my groups, but I had never experienced anything like this. John worked into his 80s, and when no one wanted to give him work anymore he went back to school, and is currently in 4th year of law school in Brazil. He is full of wisdom and anecdotes, always a warm smile, always on the go, never sits down, and never even a hint of a complaint. In fact he'd rather talk about you: he's curious and friendly, his wit is sharp and his jokes are quick. He makes you feel optimistic about life and its possibilities.
The poppies are out, here under the olive trees:
Poppies framing the 12th century tower of Notre Dame d'Aubune church in Beaumes de Venise:
Entering the village of Sivergues, lost in the Luberon mountains:
From atop the Buoux Fort, overlooking the Aiguebrun valley, with our hotel (l'Auberge des Seguins) visible along base of the valley:
This isn't a tour for softies. It is inspiring to see someone of John's age live independently and continue to learn and study, let alone complete all-day hikes. Here he is, first up the hill, after a 500m ascent to the crest of the Luberon Mountains. I'm framing this picture and it's going on my wall. I have a new definition for inspiration.
