Viviers

Looking out the window, I judge the snow to be only two feet deep, but the drifts and mounds deposited near the walkways are at least three. Piles deposited in plazas are more than 10 – 15 feet tall. It will take some warm weather and rain to effect change.

My mind is in warmer places. On the Rhône, we stop at Viviers, heading south. I wear shorts in the heat and a wide hat to keep the sun off my head.

This city in the south of France has changed hands many times. Following the Romans, the Burgundians and Franks had their day until finally the region became part of the kingdom of France in the 1300’s.

Docked on the Rhône, we made our way inland.

Down the Place de la Roubine to watch a game of Pétanque.

Through the city, we wander the maze of streets. Viviers is no stranger to tourists, and that we are.

A local couple invite us into their home to rest before we return to the boat. Their cat walks languidly past me and deposits himself nearby.

I call to him but he ignores me. I realize this cat is French! I call to “le chat” again.

“Bonjour mon ami.”

The cat looks at me with indifference.

“Un Américain qui a besoin de cours de français.”

He closes his eyes and enjoys the sun.