It is very nearly ten years since we first arrived in Annecy. We will celebrate the day hopefully with a family gathering, but definitely with a touch of nostalgia as we are not the same family anymore. I don't mean that in any sort of outlandish, sensational way. Time does what it wants and children of 6, 9 and 12 need their parents in very different ways to children of, well, you can do the maths.
But, the maternal emotion of that memory can wait for another post.
Today, I remember instead the magic of seeing what was to be our new home for the first time. Even through the fog of tiredness brought about by the long journey across the world hot on the heels of the mammoth job of packing up our entire Australian lives, the Annecy lake sparkled; an inverted diamond in its mountain clasp.
I remember asking whether one day I would take the beauty for granted, not notice the mountains, or care not whether the light on the water was starkly reflective or announcing the cacophony of an approaching storm.
"No," was always the answer, accompanied with a look sometimes quizzical, sometimes stern.
They were right. The beauty of this lake and mountains will not fade like that of this ageing mother.
Nonetheless, like mother and child, we took time to get to know and love each other. We walked, climbed, skied, photographed, swam, water-skied...played together and the bond became stronger, even though we knew instinctively that one of us was always going to have the upper hand. As such, the climb to the top of the highest mountain around the lake, La Tournette, took on a bit of a mythical turn in my mind.
I made it this summer. And the photos of that day are the ones that I want to share with you.
Would I do it again? (am I talking of our original journey to France or the climb, I ask myself)
Yes. I know now that I can . That bit of fear that accompanied me would still be there, but it would not be the fear of the unknown, just a healthy, cautious instinct relating to my own capabilities.
Ten years, though. A reminder to just do it. As clichéd as it is, maybe this post will make you re-think a goal, a dream, a possibility...I hope so.
For the first part of our French adventure, as re-counted in 'But you are in France, Madame' (print or e-book) click here.
And, if you do click and purchase - thank-you.
Finally, I am linking today with #AllAboutFrance - another opportunity to travel vicariously, prepare for your next French holiday or just enjoy reading All About France.
Well done for getting to the top! It's a great feeling. The years go so quickly, don't they? We've been in France (SW) for 22 years and it's gone in a flash. Great photos of an area I don't know at all. #AllAboutFrance
ReplyDeleteThanks Vanessa. Yes, time really does go far too quickly. There are so many beautiful places to explore in France, but if you do get the chance Annecy and the mountains are worth it.
Deletewhat spectacular photos! How long did it take you to hike to the top of the mountain? #allaboutfrance
ReplyDeleteHi, It took us three hours up and 6 in total, which included stopping for lunch and photos. Not an easy climb but worth it and I'm glad that I took on the challenge.
DeleteLove this post and its hint at nostalgia combined with a current challenge. I'm feeling a bit nostalgic at the moment as my oldest child just turned 20 yesterday....no longer a teenager, now in his 20s, 2 decades as a mum etc. It all goes so fast. Your phootos are gorgeous. It's about time I went back to Annecy, I think the last time was about 15 years ago! Thanks for linking up with #AllAboutFrane
ReplyDeleteHi Phoebe, Yes. Pretty nostalgic at the moment. Those precious years do go so quickly. Happy Birthday to your son and maybe see you in Annecy sometime.
DeleteOh wow, you live in a stunning location. This is such a lovely post, thinking about time passing, family dynamics changing but the beauty of this landscape enduring. #allaboutfrance
ReplyDeleteThanks Trish. The natural beauty helps when other things seem to be moving too quickly.
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