Painting Pines in Provence

There’s something magical about the south of France that captures your soul and refuses to let go. From wandering through narrow cobblestone alleyways where every turn reveals a new wonder, to being serenaded by the melodic flow of French conversations, and the glimmers of Art Deco design that transport you to the glitz of the 1920s.

The colours here are like nowhere else - vibrant varieties of flowers, terracotta and pink buildings with blue shutters, and that endless azure that gives this coast its name.

But it is also the scents that truly transport you… the blend of Provençal herbs dancing with the fresh pine-scented breeze from the surrounding forests.

I lost myself in local markets, discovering hidden treasures at every stall, each with its own story. I found myself drawn to the back of a painting sitting on a cart - something about its raw, unfinished beauty called to me. But when I saw the front, I was equally captivated by the seascape with a sailboat, a reminder to always adjust your sails. Sometimes the most unexpected discoveries truly are the most beautiful.

I took this moment of inspiration as an opportunity to spend time playing with my art supplies - after all, there’s just something about creating with your hands that’s good for the soul. While painting, friends noticed a hummingbird moth gracefully visiting a nearby pot of flowers. We paused to watch this delightful creature as it hovered and drank nectar. These unexpected moments of natural wonder always seem to find you when you’re open to them and fully present.

Those quiet moments sitting beneath the canopies of towering pine trees were just as magical. While walking through the forest, a bird song caught my attention. Though I couldn’t spot the singer hidden among the branches, a dear friend introduced me to Merlin - an app that records bird songs and identifies the species. For someone who loves birds, what a fascinating and useful discovery. Technology and nature coming together to deepen our connection with the world around us.

Watching light filter through ancient branches, listening to mysterious melodies from above, observing tiny moths dance among the blooms - these moments became pure meditation. Or as a dear friend would say, giving the true sense and weight of the word awesome.

La Côte d’Azur, you’ve been a feast for all the senses. Until we meet again, Le Grand Bleu. 💙

2 September 2025