WE're in france !!!

August 1998. Givet was our first port of call in France. Being in France, for us, was special. For that reason, our environs lived up to expectations. The canals and locks were hard on Bijou and us, but all the rest--terrific.

Many of the locks were so pretty. Too bad the disposition of the lock keepers didn't match. We did meet some friendly, eager-to-help keepers, but too many seemed they had been at their job too long and really needed to do something else. This was a typical lock. The keeper took pride in how it looked.

A typical street scene. Since we were only a few steps from most town centers, we loved wandering around. Usually we were looking for the boulangerie. Baguette for the cocktail hour and pastries for morning coffee. Cheese was also something we hunted for.

Cathedrals were also a common site. Along with them were their gardens and parks. We commented on the history that surrounded us quite often. We felt so fortunate to have been able to experience all this. Bijou was having a hard time, but we were trying to take care of her as best we could. The thing about the canals, once you're in you're in. There is no quick exit.

Bijou nestled next to a dock in Meaux. This was such a beautiful village we wanted to stay longer, but the seasons continued to transition, and we were getting into fall. We were now beginning to think about where Bijou will be for the winter.

Our beautiful gangway and dock in Meaux.