We probably could have lounged about the chateau all day, but the chateau chef, Charlotte, invited us to tag along with her. She markets locally in the centuries-old village of Caussade on Mondays. There was even a small brocante on the threshhold of the fresh market.
Everyone knew Charlotte or Kaari or Lizzie.
At the market, Charlotte briskly worked her way here and there to find her favorite vendors. She's gifted, cheerful and magnetic, adored by the vendors - and the guests. Charlotte asked us to let her know what looked good saying she'd be happy to add it to the menu.
Everything looked good! The market was so charming and visually electrifying. Every once in awhile I looked up over the vendor umbrellas, watching and listening to the chittering swallows darting around the cathedral.
She took us to the cheese shop.
And to the man who sold cured meats. To the olive seller.
To the spice stall and nearby, to a lady who sold saffron. The saffron jar contents amounted to less than a tablespoon, made from 200 flowers she grew and harvested herself.
Nearly lunchtime, we stopped at a cafe for a coffee before we headed back.
Millie came out with us and brought her new friend, Laurent.
Good-natured Molly agreed to stand next to this salon sign.
A few more purchases and it was home for a cooking class with Charlotte. But first, she whipped up another amazing lunch for us.
After lunch, she showed us how to make the basil granita we had the first night and we made mustard using her recipe.
We gathered again on the terrace for an evening of local wine and cheese pairings.
I know! All that in one day? (I think I actually left out a few things!)
Just like the wine, every single drop of that day was fantastic and memorable!
Next post is rummaging at the abandoned hat factory. xo
Very nice! What a treat of a trip. Thank you for sharing. :D
Posted by: Kathy Aho in MInnesota | July 10, 2012 at 04:49 PM
How beautiful! I love the open market and the colors might even inspire me to take up painting! I spotted the silk thread in your hand. Hello Laurent! Every girl needs a loyal companion. I am sure you and Millie will have many adventures together. Thanks so much for sharing your day.
Posted by: Jeannie | July 10, 2012 at 08:33 PM
Isn't it AWESOME!?! Come back with me in Aug. We'll have a blast.
xox,
d
Posted by: dede | July 10, 2012 at 10:35 PM
Heaven..just heaven !!
Posted by: Miss Holly | July 11, 2012 at 12:26 AM
I miss it already!!
Posted by: kaari | July 11, 2012 at 05:28 AM
Thank you for sharing scenes that I will not see first hand. What a treat!
Posted by: Dawn | July 11, 2012 at 10:34 AM
This trip is sounding more and more like the only way to really see France. I can actually feel the energy as you describe each day, each outing, each activity. Divine.
Posted by: karen on bainbridge island | July 11, 2012 at 11:01 AM
Thank you for allowing us to travel with you! Can't wait to see what's next...
Posted by: Vicki K | July 11, 2012 at 12:06 PM
Still filling my head with visions of all. You're talents never end dear friend. Do you think they miss us?
Posted by: jberger | July 11, 2012 at 01:28 PM
Oh Charlotte! YOU LUCKY! Everything is just so wonderful, it's nearly dreamlike, so lovely. I am beyond pea green with envy.
Thanks so much for sharing your trip with us. Can't wait to see more, read more!
Sally
Posted by: Sally | July 11, 2012 at 10:53 PM
Great post.. I loved the market. The fresh produce and the colorful taste of village life. Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Janice | July 12, 2012 at 06:55 AM
fantastic shot of charlotte and jane, too! and yes, i love that charlotte is there every monday, and then, on her days off, she hangs out at that market with friends, having coffee. of course!
Posted by: molly meng | July 14, 2012 at 08:10 PM