This afternoon I took the bus to Dinan on the recommendation of the friendly Loire valley born Cancale waiter. A good recommendation! One of the gems of the region as far as the travel write-ups go, built on the banks of the river Rance. I can't wait to wander around the medieval streets tomorrow.

Dinner tonight was courtesy the 'City' Carrefour across the street. Decided to relish the quiet of my room with the bustle of the town and the gorgeous view on tap. Cotes du Rhone, olives, bread, cheese, petit pois in a can and then apples and coconut yogurt for brekkie filled the basket. And of course the all important bottle opener which will now find its way into my backpack!

On the bus ride here, winding through cornfields, tree lanes and cabbage patches (large ones!) and crossing rivers, all the while having the changing landscape meet a bright blue sky at the horison, I was overwhelmed with the realisation of how blessed I am having so many incredible, inspiring, beautiful, loving, spirited, funny, remarkable, alive, humble, caring, wise, adventurous, unique, characterful people in my life: family, friends, acquaintances. To the soundtrack of Jacques Brel and then Passenger (how apt!), my spirit (and eyes) were filled to the brim and overflowing. I carry not only my backpack, but all of my loved ones, new and old, close or distant, right here in my heart. And passers-by look curiously on as I marvel at the world through these lenses wearing a sheepish happy grin.