It was indeed a warm Christmas this year here in Provence and on the French Riviera!
On the best days, we could enjoy the sun shining through a light winter coat in temperatures of no less than 18 degrees. It got sweaty, so we've been sitting outside eating or drinking coffee with our shirt sleeves every day, both in the backyard and in restaurants.
There has been enough sun for every day, even though after the Christmas holidays the weather cooled down a bit to 9-15 degrees.
As is typical for the region, the smell of stale smoke has enveloped us in its winter scent both in the backyard and on car rides. We have already gotten used to it in our seven years here, and we even like the smell. In the winter, garden waste is burned here properly. We burn, even though the new law prohibits the burning of all other garbage, except olive tree clippings. I can't believe that there would be enough olive wood chips to burn in the yard for the whole winter! However, the authorities clearly accept the issue or are unable to actively monitor these dozens of smoke statues rising in the landscape.
Of course, we ourselves have also finally lit a fire in our beloved home fireplace, from which the smell of smoke spreads a little too strongly into our bedroom. The reason for this is probably due to the clever "design", i.e. the ventilation duct of our sausage is located right next to the chimney. Strange thing. However, the fireplace is wonderful and there is now burning twigs from trees felled in the summer.
So we finally got to spend Christmas by a real fireplace with the atmosphere, which has been a long-time dream of mine! I am very grateful for this experience. I couldn't ask for much more. And it's not that important in the end either :D
Sweet home warmth for everyone in between days!
Katarina <3