Today we again enjoyed coffee before heading out around 10:00. Our destination was Châtillon-sur-Seine about 50 minutes away. It was a nice drive through the rolling French countryside. The town was larger than expected and we drove about a bit before finding the museum that contained the Vix treasures (google for additional information). At 12:00 they kicked us out of the museum (in the smaller French towns they enjoy a 2 hour respite each day). We then went and found where springs fed water into the Seine.

Afterward we found a small boulangerie and got some quiche and sandwiches. We ate in the park then walked through the old town up to a 1600’s fortificatio that was converted into a cemetery with great views over the town.

We then headed to the Fontenay Abbey. This was a favorite of me and Carolyn from the last trip. It is a beautiful Abby, with wonderful gardens. We enjoyed the sites and even had a little fun.

After heading back home we enjoyed appies on the patio.

Afterward we recreated a local delicacy, Steak Epoisses made with the worlds stinkiest cheese. We ate it all though the reviews were somewhat mixed.

Another great day.

This morning we got up and enjoyed our coffee on the balcony overlooking the river. After breakfast we headed up into town. There was a small market where we bought olives and bread. Then headed to the charcuterie an bought pâté, quiche and lasagne (definitely a food theme going on here). After visiting the church we took a very nice stroll along the river back to our home.

We loaded up lunch and headed to the Chateau Epoisses. We strolled the grounds including seeing the dovecote where doves were raised, had a picnic (before the rain) then wandered the small town.

After a short nap (two hours) we decided to take another walk up into town. On a Sunday afternoon it was quiet and very beautiful.

Back home we enjoyed some of our delicious food purchases and watched the rain fall. We even had a rainbow. Tonight we’ll enjoy our lasagne and watch the movie Chocolat in preparation for a future day trip.

Tonight was Emily’s graduation party. It is being held 3 weeks prior to our departure. In the next three weeks we’ll plan what to take and what to do.

Once everyone was there Stacy told Emily to check the mail. Unfortunately Emily had seen the postman as she arrived home earlier in the day and had gotten the mail (according to Stacy, Emily NEVER gets the mail). Oh well fail, but Emily sensing something was up headed to the mailbox. Carolyn and I had created three postcards describing our plans for taking Emily to Europe.