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Scott and I had the incredible opportunity, this past week, to accompany our daughter Cait, her husband and their little "herd" (Annie, Ellie, Lilly and Luke) to Samoëns, France. Samoëns is a charming valley village nestled in the heart of the majestic French Alps. It's located about an hour southeast of Geneva.
The week didn't flow quite as anticipated... but isn't that how life generally goes? We tend to have things planned and picture-perfect in our minds, but often in reality, there's not much resemblance...
Samoëns wasn't a new destination for us. We spent a winter holiday there with Cait and the family in 2012. That was a wonderful experience but memories of extreme cold temperatures and abundant snow were foremost in our minds as we planned for this year's trip.
During our stay four years ago, Scott and I had spent most mornings out on the cross country ski trails that ran right past the chalet we were staying at. Many hours out in the cold taught us the importance of having the proper clothing.
This time, before leaving the US, we carefully equipped ourselves with warm boots, good quality undergarments, wool socks, hats, mittens, layers of jackets and plenty of hand warmers. We were going to be prepared!
What we didn't plan for was rain and unseasonably warm temperatures!
A beautiful snow cover greeted us Friday evening when we arrived in Samoëns, but within hours, it began raining. Predictions of more wet weather and temperatures into the 40's dashed our spirits as well as our hopes of enjoying those wonderful nordic ski trails.
Fortunately, downhill skiing was not affected by the weather, as the temps were much colder up in the high mountains and instead of disappointing rain, there was an abundance of powdery snow at those elevations. So Cait, Josh and the girls were fine; but Scott and I (not willing to face the super steep slopes) resigned ourselves to enjoying life in the lovely, albeit rainy village. And honestly, that would have been just fine. Hey, a week in the French Alps, no matter what the weather forecast, was a dream come true for us.
For the first two days, we played games, read, relaxed, made soup and wandered the village (with umbrellas in tow) which is incredibly quaint and lovely. Down every cobblestone lane and around every corner is a photo op, kind of like being lost in a Dicken's Christmas village. Whenever there was a pause in the rain, Scott had his camera ready...
On Monday, we noticed a sign (in French, of course) that seemed to indicate there were not only downhill ski slopes up on the mountains but also cross country trails. When we checked into it at the "Office de Tourisme" they explained that, indeed, there were beautiful (snowy) trails up at the higher elevations and also a bus that transports "Nordic" (the French name for cross country) skiers back and forth to the trails each day. Wow! It didn't take us long to find a shop to rent skis, poles and boots. The next morning, we were excitedly standing in line waiting for the bus.
The bus ride was only twenty minutes, but the scenery change was dramatic. To say there was plenty of snow for cross country skiing would be an understatement. The sight that met our eyes was truly a magical wonderland. We actually ended up above the clouds, and brilliant blue skies prevailed for most of our skiing days. I'm so happy Scott had his camera tucked in his backpack, as words are so inadequate to describe the incredible beauty that greeted us...
There were a few other things during our stay in Samoëns that we didn't plan for. Cait had booked the same chalet on the outskirts of town that we had enjoyed four years ago. When we arrived this time however, we were shocked to discover that, instead of the peaceful, quiet surroundings we'd remembered, a huge, modern and very popular ice skating rink had been constructed right across the street. Yikes, bright lights, a hockey team and lots of tourists were now swarming the area most afternoons and evenings. Peaceful and quiet? Not so much!
Then there was the "tummy bug" that ran it's course through the family to varying degrees. We washed our hands and used sanitizer like crazy, but each day, wondered who might be "dropping" next.
But you know what? Despite all the unexpected, unanticipated predicaments, if I had to sum up the trip with one word I would declare it "wonderful-amazing-fantastic" (Yeah, I know, that's cheating a bit!).
The rain and warm temperatures gave Scott and I the opportunity to discover the awesome nordic ski trails up on the mountain. Had there been lots of snow down below, we would have been content to ski through the valley and would have missed out on an incredible experience.
The "tummy bug" made us appreciate each day that everyone was well, as well as the wonderful gift of a hearty appetite.
And the skating rink? Not exactly ideal, but we took advantage of it, watching a hockey game from the chalet balcony and even had a chance to spend a fun evening gliding around the ice ourselves.
To sum it up, our trip was a good "life lesson" for us: understand that no situation (even a week in the French Alps) will be exactly like we plan and definitely not picture-perfect. The journey will almost always have unexpected bumps along the way. Thank God for each ray of sunshine, stick together through thick and thin and look for the blessings that can arise from disappointing circumstances. They're always there, sometimes you just have to search a little harder...
P.S. We bid adieu to France on Friday and headed back to London for a few more days with the family here before returning back to the States on Wednesday. Stay tuned, we've got some wonderful recipes coming up as well as a London post. So until then, Au revoir!
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I'm glad to have happened upon your blog today. Having lived in Geneva for 2 years in the 1980s, I know that winter in that area is quite special, and ski de fond or ski piste, it's amazing to be up in those beautiful mountains. Thanks for helping me dig up those memories!
So glad you "came along with us" Peggy. It is such a magical place. Scott and I would love to see it in the summer too - I imagine it is breathtaking!
You are very wise. Love the photos.
Winter and snow are not my cup of tea but I absolutely love these pictures. Even more I love the ones of the town/village. Those pics speak of serenity far from the maddening crowd that we are inundated with daily here at home. Thank you so much.
Our February vacation looked a lot difference that yours but what gorgeous photos! You look adorable too 🙂 Glad you found a new adventure above the rain!
While your trip may not have gone as planned, you certainly made the most of it. Had you not had the rain, you would not have experienced the wonder of the nordic ski trails up on the mountain. I've pinned those stunning views.
Love your pics! Major snow lover here and my husband is just getting back today from a week skiing in the Alps. I hope to go next year! Thanks for sharing your trip 😉
Thanks Diane! Most of the areas of the Alps had a ton of snow this winter, despite some periods of warmer weather mixed in. Samoens had a base of 90" for several months! We even ran into a few trails that had to be closed, due to avalanche potential!
It doesn't surprise me at all, Chris, that you found and embraced the silver lining! Life traveling isn't that much different than life at home (weather and stomach bugs mess with plans), but on trips we have family and gorgeous scenery around us. Not to mention French bread! I'm so glad you made some wonderful memories and shared some with us in words and photos! Safe travels to London and home.
Thanks Wendy! We're safe and sound on this side of the "pond". What an experience!
I am new to your newsletter, but just in time for this post. I know that village. Charming. We live in southeastern France and love the Alps. There is nothing like them. So pleased that you found the hidden blessings in the experience, and could share the beauty God created with your readers.
Hi Mary! Welcome to the Café! That is so cool that you know Samoens!Thanks for your kind words!
Cross country skiing is wonderful, isn't it? What a workout! Never tried downhill -- too chicken, I guess. 🙂 Sounds like a wonderful time. Really fun pictures, too. Thanks so much.
With a family that travels a lot the stomach bug is quite common around here. Peppermint tea sometimes helps. But judging from that scenery-well, that would help me a lot! Awesome!
Thank you both so much for this gorgeous glimpse of the French Alps. What an amazing adventure! Love, love, love the photos 🙂
So beautiful and love when you share your travels 🙂 Sounds like the winter there is mild like ours here, except ours just goes from winter to spring in a couple of days in the same place!
Chris and Scott, victims of climate warming ! Glad you found snowy slopes in the end. Well written, great photos, great sense of humour
All the photos are just breathtaking! Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful adventure! France is definitely on my bucket list of places to visit!
Thanks Cindy, glad you enjoyed them! It's funny, for us in the States - we tend to think of the Austrian or Swiss Alps, but not the French. And yet, they are absolutely gorgeous, and maybe not as crowded or commercialized.
I enjoyed your pictures Chris! Such beautiful places. I hope you've enjoyed every moment 🙂
What a beautiful place to visit! Thanks for sharing these great photos!
Wow! Amazing pictures! I know so many people who would have just complained about the unplanned things, instead of enjoying the new opportunities. Life's so much better when full of positivity.
Thank you for sharing
Beautiful
Thanks Nancy!
Holy wow Chris, thanks for sharing your incredible trip! Your attitude is admirable, and words to carefully remember, thank you!
You are so right Chris. Words are inadequate to describe the beauty of the gorgeous Alps. So glad you made the best of it and had a wonderful time. Thank you both for the lovely photos.
Sam
Definitely love your blog!!!! Beautiful post with astonishing pictures! I do adore mountains and that is the reason why I go, almost once a year, on the Alps. Take care and enjoy your time, Clara.
So glad you enjoyed the pics and the blog Clara! If you've been there, then you know what a soothing sight they are!
So gorgeous, what a beautiful place to spend a week!
Flexibility and cheerfully taking detours are the name of the game these days and you and Scott get an A+. Your pictures are gorgeous although I'm still not willing to think any place is more beautiful than our Rockies. Every time we get to be with our children and grandchildren is a great time. Thanks for sharing your story and Soctt's beautiful photos with us. And, FYI, I am having company for dinner next week and am serving your Pasta E Fagiolo Soup.
Yum Mary! Sounds so good, I may make a pot too! The Rockies are hard to beat - we visited there about 10 years ago and loved it!
Scott's photos didn't even look real, they were so beautiful! I love living vicariously through you 2 ????
Thanks so much Sandy! Yes, the landscape up at the top, all capped in feet of snow was surreal. Scott kept saying it looked like a combination of a lunar landscape and Antarctica!
I love your optimism. I think my ancestors were born very close to there. I have a dream of visiting that area some day. Can’t wait to see what new recipes you picked up while there. And, as always, great photos.
Thanks Madonna! It's such an interesting part of France. The cooking in this area is rustic French mountain cooking (Savoyard). Very hearty and earthy!
What gorgeous pictures to share with your readers. Many of us can only imagine. What memories you'll are making for the years to come. Thank you for sharing so much with us all.
It's our privilege to take you along Charlotte! Thanks for coming!
Such beautiful pictures! Thanks for sharing!
You're very welcome Elaine!
What a wonderful holiday that must have been despite the several unexpected events! Your photos are lovely. Safe journey home!
Thanks so much for your comment! Everyone is home and healthy now!
Oh, Chris. What a beautiful vacation with family. You obviously made the best of it! The photos are spectacular.
Thanks Debra! We love these trips and have made so many memories; not to mention friends in different countries!
Loved the journey today as I feasted on the photos!! Majestic! And against all the incredible blue and white background, I loved the blue shades of the ski attire you both had on! Scott, I admire your gift of photography so AND both of your courage to tackle the slopes! Thanks so much for the feast for the eyes! Can't wait to see what recipes are forthcoming!
Blessings!
Beverly
TX
Thanks so much for coming along with us Beverly! Scott says, "Thanks!" too!
WOW! So amazing and I truly enjoyed that. What a gift to get to enjoy God's handiwork and His beautiful creation! I pray one day, my husband and I can take an adventure like that!
Thanks Tina! We love it when we can take our readers virtually on our adventures! He is truly an awesome and creative God!
Thanks again for sharing. The pictures are just amazing. Sorry to hear the "bug" made it's rounds, but that often happens on trips. Looking forward to more.
Thanks Karen! We're all up and healthy back here in London!
You just reminded me of a Christmas during my college days...I was so looking forward to Christmas after a tough semester....everyone came down with a horrible stomach virus....all presents were put in paper grocery sacks, with the recipients name in crayon.....I couldnt tell you one gift from that long ago Christmas, but can still see the family in PJs pushing brown bags from person to person!:) Thanks for the " glass half full" message!
Gayann, I love your story! I think every family has at least one of those holidays! Sometimes, it's those events that bond us even closer together as families!
I'm inspired to try cross country skiing! Those cloud pictures are awesome.
We highly recommend it!
Always a rainbow! Amazing what you found up top! Glorious! Thanks for sharing your journey,lessons and incredible photos!
Thanks Patti! God's incredible creation was on display; the snow was like a blanket of diamonds.
What a wonderful time you had,thanks for sharing your experience with us,and awesome pics!
Thanks Ann! Scott loves the photo ops we encounter every time we travel!
I enjoyed your pictures so much. Life is good.
So true Susan! - and a lot of it depends on where and who you look to for true happiness!
It all looks pretty 'picture perfect' to me Chris --- what an adventure --- and you look super cute in your winter outfit!!
Thanks Sue! Scott got me all outfitted with new gear this year - I'm spoiled!
Breathtaking! Thank you for sharing the beautiful scenery. I have only been to Lucerne, but if the rest of Switzerland is like that, and like your photos, then it is heaven on earth.
It really is Ellen! And until four years ago, we weren't even remotely familiar with the French Alps!
I just love being on skis with snow and beauty all around.
Snow is so calming.You had a fantastic trip..love the pics..
Namaste:)
Thanks Monique! We really did - so precious!