Le Monsieur Et Le Caddie

It’s a pretty Saturday morning in Bourges.

I am leading a group of North American travelers around Paris and “the Heart of France.” The Heart of France. Bourges qualifies indeed. For one, it’s located in a region named “Centre-Val de Loire.”

It’s almost my neck of the woods. I enjoy visiting this historic town and celebrated a birthday here just a few weeks before the country shut down in March 2020.

My favorite part? Strolling through the narrow lanes of the historic district lined with boutiques and half-timbered homes. If I am in town at the right time, I shop at the covered food market. There I visit the old-fashioned “rémouleur” (who’s sharpened my Opinel picnic knife on a couple of occasions).

We arrived last night and toured the cathedral before sampling a hearty dinner at a local restaurant near place Gordaine. We slept well.

This morning travelers and their tour guide have a few hours to rest or explore before moving on to the next stop.

After breakfast, I head out of our comfortable hotel and walk down a long flight of stairs by le Palais Jacques Coeur, once a lavish residence, now a landmark managed by Le Centre des Monuments Nationaux.

In the 15th century, Jacques Coeur, a successful businessman and financier, paid a high price for showing off his wealth and overshadowing the King of France. Jacques Coeur, Gilles Berthelot, Jacques de Beaune-Semblançay, Fouquet: Don’t they ever learn, those powerful men?

“Pour vivre heureux, vivons caché” (to live happily let’s live in hiding) a favorite French saying that must have been coined after their time.

I don’t go straight to the market. It’s more fun to explore the peaceful streets first, and I savor the moment.

Sidewalks are narrow near the neighborhood church, Eglise Saint-Pierre.

I hear a sound behind me and step aside to look back.

A gentleman is walking towards me, a vision in white from his hair to his comfortable, slightly creased linen attire.

Summery vibes. It’s been a lovely week in June.

He nods at me and walks by slowly, slightly stooped. The years have taken a toll.

On his feet, sandals. He is ready to tackle Bourges’ cobbled streets.

Old school elegance… All his outfit needs is a bright flower in his jacket’s buttonhole.
Or does it?

He is pulling France’s favorite shopping accessory, “le caddie” also known as “le chariot” or “la poussette.”

Magenta. A welcome pop of color.

Off he goes, leading the way towards Bourges’ covered food market, la Halle au Blé.

My French life.