ACTIVITIES - spring at the café

Spring has arrived in Provence when the street cafés start to get busy again. With the (fairly) mild weather here we are fortunate to be able to make use of this quintessential Mediterranean pastime every Saturday morning where we meet up with friends and acquaintances, sometimes bringing guests along. 

at the café

 At the bar Le Central we try to get a table in the sun, and since the branches of the plane trees, platane in French, were trimmed the end of February it is nowadays possible to enjoy the warming sunshine the entire time. 

This is also where we swap ideas, exchange stories, plan excursions or simply sit together and watch the world go by.

RECIPES - quinoa risotto

February and March are the most difficult months of the year for the human body as nature has not awakened from its winter slumber and winter has stopped producing in order to prepare for spring and another growing season. Our trusted farmers Gerard and Francis at their stands at the weekly market in Riez provide us with what's in season, and so now is the time for the last winter greens and root vegetables

As such our choices are more limited yet there is still an abundance of joyful ingredients which we can use to prepare delicious meals. How about a quinoa risotto? Unlike risotto made with Arborio rice quinoa, when cooked, does not become creamy and sticky. But not worries, there are also advantages. 

yoga weekend June 2009 Hautes-Alpes

A special weekend filled with fresh alpine air, dynamic yoga sessions to suit every level, pilates and wonderful local food. This is what Elise Maes, our fantastic yoga instructor in Aix, is offering to anyone interested in a relaxing time away.

There is a choice between 2 or 3 days but the 3 day-deal is the best one, as it allows for 2 complete days of relaxation before driving home again the afternoon of the third day.

For more information please check this
http://aixyoga.com/images/stage-yoga-pilates-nature-juin09.pdf

If you want to sign up, please contact Elise at elise@aixyoga.com before May 15, although an earlier date is recommended as to ensure enough rooms at the lodge.

And if you want to practice yoga in Aix with Elise or Maryvonne click here http://www.aixyoga.com/

Sunny greetings from the sunny Provence
Claudia & Jim