Sunshine Before a Hurricane

Poppy fields in bloom outside Lacoste in May

We’re anticipating Hurricane Irma to make her way from the south of Florida and travel up through the middle of Georgia in the next couple of days.  Atlanta could be, or not be, directly in her path.  But the last few days have been absolutely gorgeous — cool, sunny, no humidity and a kiss of Fall in the air.

In Avignon

Atlantans start preparing for a major storm days in advance, buying up water, bread, milk — and likely lots of beer and wine — so that if you wait until the last minute you will find yourself staring at empty shelves in any grocery or convenience store.  Five days ago I heard from dear friends in Tampa, when Irma hadn’t even made it to Puerto Rico yet, and there was no gas to be found and the store shelves were bare.  Not knowing which way the path of the storm may take, they were undecided whether to leave.  By Saturday morning, however, they made the decision to evacuate.  I’m praying that when they return home they will find everything safe and sound.

In Saint-Zacharie

So in advance of what may or may not happen here, I thought I’d share some photos from sunny Provence.  Because whatever happens, there will be sunny days ahead again.  And for the next few days, I wish for everyone in the storm’s path a safe harbor and return to an intact home.

Walking down the street in Lourmarin