11 October 2019
I visited this historic site in the spring of 1980. At that time, the climb to the top and visit of the cathedral was pleasant and uncrowded. Times have changed but, because I am in the neighborhood, I have returned to climb again, wander its streets, and spend some quiet time enjoying the views from its magnificent abbey.
(more…)11 October 2019
I may have left my tears in Normandy, but I definitely left my heart in Saint-Malo.
I drove past it’s huge port with fishing boats, yachts and catamarans, but once over their hydronic lift bridge, Saint-Malo begins to shine. Saint-Malo is an historic French port in Brittany on the Channel coast. On a clear day, I can see the south coast of the Normandy peninsula. And there are plenty of opportunities to gaze out over their turquoise and blue waters doing just that. The Malouins are lucky people. (more…)
8 October 2019
What Caen lacked in charm is more than made up for by the city of Bayeux. Unlucky Caen suffered heavy bombardment, destroying over 70% of its buildings; Bayeux was one of the few Normandy towns completely spared from destruction. It remains a beautiful historic city with cobblestone streets to wander and charming architecture to appreciate.
(more…)5-10 October 2019
In peace, sons bury their fathers. In war, fathers bury their sons. – Herodotus
Omaha Beach
Listening to Beethoven’s Fifth Sympathy as background music for opening scenes of The Longest Day is an appropriate introduction to what will be a week of museums and sites which tell the story of the longest day in the memories of thousands of men who survived the invasion of Normandy. June 6th, 1944 – the day when Evil witnessed the biggest Armada the world has ever known.
Every human being should recognize the significance of June 6, 1944. D-Day = “The Day.” June 5 was D-1, June 7 was D+1. June 6, 1944 was D-Day, a day that changed the course of history.
(more…)4 October 2019
I admit, I am underwhelmed with the city of Caen. However, it’s an easy reach by train from Paris, it has some historical sites, one terrific museum, and is a good location from which to rent a car with which to explore Normandy. And, I should not be too critical. Post-War reconstruction of complete districts led to its urbanization and inevitable loss of historic Norman charm.
(more…)October 2-3, 2019
Walking Rouen has all the makings of meeting a fantastic, memorable city. It seems to have it all: history, architecture, parks, squares, cathedrals, and cafes. And brazen little sparrows who clean up you croissant crumbs while I enjoy a coffee. I am definitely putting Rouen on my list of favorite cities. There is much to see and do in this capital of the Normandy. And to hear: the bells of Rouen’s churches can be heard throughout the day.
Cambria is equal distance between Los Angeles and San Francisco along beautifully scenic Highway One. It is small village of about 6600 residents and home to many artisans, wine makers, musicians, and surfer dudes. The primary economic source is tourism based largely on the fact that Cambria is located on the central coast of the beautiful Pacific and has dramatic rocky cliffs, beaches, and towering pines. Nearby sights include Hearst Castle, Nitt Witt Ridge, the Northern Elephant Seal Rockery, the southern end of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and an occasional whale passing through.
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