L’Union
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Day 57: “Bonjour from L’Union. It’s a chilly 8.84°C here but feels more like 4.97°C, just the right weather to freeze my gnome toes off! As if that wasn’t enough, it’s raining cats and dogs. No, really, I just saw a poodle float by! The wind is gusting at 8.75 m/s, nearly blew my pointy hat off. Humidity’s at 76%, my beard’s frizzier than a squirrel’s tail. I guess gnomes aren’t waterproof, who knew? Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be huddling under a mushroom for warmth.”
Bookish Gnome Goes Toulousing!
As I waddled my way through the vibrant streets, a peculiar sight caught my attention. Tucked away amidst the architectural splendors was a small, almost invisible bookshop. “La Librairie des Oiseaux Rares” it read. A haven for bibliophiles, it was brimming with an array of books – each one with a tale more captivating than the last. One could feel the whispers of a hundred stories, waiting to be unfurled. A paradise for a curious gnome like me!
Now, let me drop in a line from a local song that I can’t get out of my head, “On n’a pas tous les jours vingt ans” which translates to “You’re not twenty every day”. It’s a reminder to seize the day and enjoy life’s fleeting moments. I believe it fits perfectly with the essence of my journey.
At this point in my journey, I’ve been on the road for a total of 56 days! Covering a distance of 1512.0 kilometers so far, isn’t that something! My recent stops include the scenic Foix, the serene Saverdun, the bustling Toulouse, the hospitable L’Union, and the lively Blagnac.
In the words of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, “On ne voit bien qu’avec le coeur, l’essentiel est invisible pour les yeux”. In English, it means “One sees clearly only with the heart. What is essential is invisible to the eyes.” This journey has indeed been a heartwarming testament to this quote.
And as I continue to traverse across the diverse landscapes of France, I look forward to what lies ahead. Au revoir for now, until we meet again on my next stop!
Wandering L’Union’s Streets
Gnome’s Petite Palette Puzzles
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of L’Union.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Château Chasing Tune Twister
First, the Château de L’Union, standing tall with an air of grandeur. This historic castle whispers tales of times long past, a silent testament to the city’s history. As the French playwright Molière once said, “Les grandes âmes ont de grandes passions.” (Great souls have great passions.)
Secondly, the city’s love for music. It’s impossible to miss the echoes of classical compositions that resonate through the city streets. As a nod to the famous French composer, Claude Debussy, I couldn’t help but hum “Clair de Lune” under my breath. A testament to the city’s deep-rooted love for art and culture.
L’Union, a city where history and culture intertwine, offering a fascinating glimpse into France’s rich heritage.
Strumming to L’Union’s Tune!
In L’Union, a suburb of Toulouse, the tradition of “Fête de la Musique” stands out. Celebrated every 21st June, the longest day of the year, it’s a day where locals and visitors alike are encouraged to play music in public spaces. The streets echo with the melody of accordions, violins, guitars, and more. You might hear someone shout “Allez, on danse!” (Come on, let’s dance!) as the music takes over. An incredible display of community, music, and joy, it’s a must-see (and hear!) for any traveler. And if you’re not musically inclined, don’t worry, as the locals say, “C’est la fête, pas le talent qui compte!” (It’s the party, not the talent that counts!)
Gnome’s Guide to L’Union Gems
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 