Velo

This morning, we had a meeting at Luke's school, College Villa Fal, with an administrator. Gabe took care of filling in the paperwork since it was in French, and we exchanged passports, Luke's report card, and other necessary documents. Finally, Luke is officially enrolled in school. What a relief! However, when we inquired about an orientation before school starts, the woman's response almost seemed like laughter. I even suggested the possibility of connecting with another family, but she bluntly said, “Non.” She did mention that the other kids would help Luke on his first day. Bonne courage. Au Revoir. I had the urge to cry but then quickly pulled myself together. In my head reminding myself that Luke will totally be fine.  This school has more than 600 students (grades 6-9), and every class consists of 30 students. School days are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday with Wednesday dismissal at noon. 

I rode my brand-new electric bike from Bayonne to Capbreton (23 km)! I was so freaked out since I have no idea where I am, and I absolutely cannot speak French, not even a little! A few times, I was behind another rider and couldn’t remember which word was right or left … droit, gauche … which is which!?! so I just trailed behind until they noticed me and moved over!!! I rode wearing my Birkenstocks too! It would have been odd if I had chosen to wear exercise shoes let alone an exercise outfit. Although, I probably stood out every time Google Maps said, “Turn left in 300 m,” in English! 🤦  

 With the assistance of Google Maps, I completed the journey in a little over an hour. When I initially left Bayonne, I was quite nervous and ended up taking a few wrong turns. However, I quickly found my way back on track. The manager at the bike shop told me that there is a dedicated cycle route, known as the La Vélodyssée, that meanders through forests, traffic-free paths, and various villages. I believe this bike path is a 1,300 km long cycle route along the Atlantic coast. I passed through forests filled with wildflowers and listened to numerous singing birds. The scenery was beautiful, with flowing rivers adding to the beauty. Along the way, I also came across several campgrounds, lined with tents, RVs, clotheslines, etc. Classic Euro camping. I did it! Thank goodness for Google Maps - haha! I hope Gabe finds the perfect EBike soon and has a blast riding it back from Bayonne as well. Tonight we walked down to the port (we have done this most nights we have been in Capbreton). I love how there are flowers everywhere. The center of the roundabouts are bursting with flowers. They make me so happy.