Blouins in France: Marche de Noel

The marche de Noel in our village of La Colle sur Loup, was more than I ever could have imagined. Unfortunately Daryl had exams starting the next day, so was at home studying and could not join us. We walked over at 10:30 a.m., and didn't get home until 4:00 p.m., which for us, on foot, is quite amazing. The old walking street was lined with craftspeople of all types, the Christmas band was in full swing, the rides were busy, and the craft stations for the kids were un-real. The kids made ornaments, stockings, potpouri holders, Christmas pictures, and real wool angel ornaments. The good thing was that they were all free....the bad thing is that a great deal of glue and paint was used, therefore the crafts were very wet, therefore mommy had them all attached to the outside of her backpack, in hopes that we would make it home with them still in tact. I was quite impressed with the holding capacity of my backpack.....it held the crafts on the outside, and 4 balloon animals, 3 jackets, treats for daddy, 2 cross-bows, and 2 baguettes for the walk home. Yes, the balloon animals and the baguettes did get a big squished, but we made it home. I was amazed that we made it home with no meltdowns, since it had been such a long day. The kids had smiles on their faces, treats in their bellies, and paint and glue all over their coats. It was great :o) A day we will not forget :o)