A day never goes by that we don’t marvel at something; whether it is being surrounded by centuries-old buildings, the food, or the culture in general. So, it was curious when, in conversation, we were introduced to the French verb profiter.
As I have said before, we once heard the saying that the French “appreciate the distinction between the accumulation of joy, and the joy of accumulation”. So too, the verb profiter is often used to mean “enjoy”, i.e. to enjoy holidays, good weather, or experiences. It does not carry the negative connotation sometimes associated with in English. Nous profitez la vie! We enjoy life!
One of the best parts of enjoying life is being able to share our experiences. That is what this blog is about. And sometimes we have visitors that come over and profiter de la vie / enjoy the life with us.
Such was the case recently when my brother Michael and his lovely wife Kathy came to visit for a few days. We have been fortunate to have them spend time with us a few times in the past (Paris, Rennes, and Barcelona), and we welcomed their visit once again.
We spent a full couple of days of wandering Toulouse, its markets, gardens, churches, and sights. Jeannie and Kathy even took one afternoon to go shopping together at a few of the many boutiques, shoe stores, and jewelry shops in the city – an activity Chris usually lacks enthusiasm in doing.
Of course, after a picnic in the park on the day of their arrival, we ate out at a wide variety of restaurants that Toulouse has to offer. From small sidewalk bistros to fine dining, we tried a variety of styles and cuisines, and of course wines.
Part way through their visit, we took the train down to storm visit the ancient medieval citadel Carcassonne. It had been two years since Jeannie and I had had been there, so we were equally eager to return and to have them experience this spectacular place. Besides, traveling there by train together would be fun as well. Fortunately, the weather cooperated, and we had a full day of roaming around the massive fortress and the surrounding town. 
After returning to Toulouse, we had another full day of shopping the markets for ingredients for a delicious final meal together in the apartment. The next day Mike and Kathy had to depart, while Jeannie and I needed to pack for a three-night visit to Lyon.
It had been a wonderful, whirlwind visit with my brother and his wife, and over that final meal together, we plotted when and where we would next get together – to profitez la vie.
Wayne
5 Jun 2017Great photos as always! Hoping the amazing journey continues!
Harry Howard
2 Jun 2017Wonderful pictures. Very Jealous of you. Have you been to Rennes le Chateau? I always wanted to tour Europe, but time and money have slipped away from me. Thank you for letting me enjoy your journey through the lens of your life and camera.
Kathy Fooshee
1 Jun 2017Another life adventure with my brother and sister! Love you both…
Cathi
31 May 2017Wonderful read and photos.
Neona Daugherty
31 May 2017As always it looks like you are all having fun. Go Fooshee’s.
Chris
31 May 2017Neona,
Indeed, we are having fun. In spite of the various challenges “chaque jour est rempli d’émerveillement” [every day is filled with wonder].
C
LeeAnne Denney
31 May 2017This group of photos has one thing missing which most of your other groups contained. There are nothrongs of people. It appears as if the four of you are visiting these glorious places all by yourselves. Many of these photos look like watercolor paintings. What a beautiful story thank you . I know how fun it is to share great experiences with siblings
Jeannie
31 May 2017We arrived at Carcassonne in the morning, and watched as it filled with tourists. Finding quiet time without the crowds is a real gift. Our future blog about Sarlat will show many throngs of people as it was market day. Stay tuned…
Monique Charreaux
31 May 2017Chers amis de la Tête d’Or (Lyon),
Merci de nous faire profiter de vos photos, comme le souligne Evy, les gargouilles sont drôles, surtout celle la du notable / ecclésiastique (?) qui se hurle / prêche en se bouchant les oreilles ! Un règlement de comptes?
Nous lisons votre blogue, vous suivons et profitons de vos voyages.
Quelle chance de vous avoir rencontrés !
Monique
Chris
31 May 2017Monique wrote:
Thank you for visiting our blog Monique, and also for your kind words. We value our brief meeting in the park Tet d’Or more than you know.
C
Evelyn Snyder
30 May 2017Love the Gargoyles! Shows that the ancients had a sense of humor. I am glad to see a photo of you two together, a rarity in these picture dialogues of yours!
Only 2.5 weeks until my Scottish adventure!
Until we meet again,
Evy
Linda
30 May 2017Fabulous pictures as always. So nice that Mike and Kathy have been able to visit with you during your travels.
Danny Allen
30 May 2017Good Stuff. Keep it coming!!
Jean Randall
30 May 2017Thank you! Merci’!!!!!
Lem Howard
30 May 2017Love my cousins! Love that idea of accumulating joy!
Chris
31 May 2017Thanks Lem. And we seem to be amassing more of that joy substance daily. C
Mike Fooshee
30 May 2017Picnic in France .. always great
Chris
31 May 2017Love you both bro.