Day 22 8 August

Today we took a long bus trip to the coast of Normandy to see the White Cliff village of Etretat.  We climbed up a series of steep steps to a church and the most amazing view.  It was a beautiful morning, the sea and beach reminded us of some beaches at home and the view was rather spectacular.  We got back on the bus and drove to a cider farm where we heard about how apples are converted Ito cider and its stronger alcoholic derivatives.  We sampled these and enjoyed a salad lunch with interesting cheeses, Camembert being the most familiar to us.  The Normandy cows produce milk for this cheese.  We really enjoyed this morning -  picturesque, expansive cropping, few cows, flax crops.  We then visited the historic town of Honfleur built around a marina.  The buildings dated back to early 19 century, once again the church being central to it all, almost museum pieces now.

Back at the ship we enjoyed another beautiful meal as we set sail for Vernon.  As I write this, I am sitting up on the bed looking out our big sliding door over the river, so peaceful with just the wake of the ship disturbing the smooth waters.

Tomorrow we visit Monet's home and Gardens.  Looking forward to that.  Each day continues to bring something new.  We head for Paris tomorrow and arrive there about midnight.

We are well.  Thanks for keeping in touch.  Words cannot describe the many varying scenes of this part of the world, villages, interesting houses, expansive fields, evidence of history, people of many races etc.  It's quite a learning curve for us.  Must away to bed.  Love to all.