The Writers Working on a Masterpiece

Painters Creating Magnificent Works of Art

Elizabeth Contemplating What She Will Write About

A Beautiful Cathedral

Today the artists painted outside for the first time in France! Mrs. McCarty set up a still life of a vase and some apples, and the artists painted away! The paintings were absolutely beautiful; the best that we have ever seen in any of our trips to France.
Meanwhile the overactive imaginations of the resident thespians were hard at work coming up with ideas for their one act play. After an emotional encounter with William Faulkner, the girls reflected on the front lawn of La Giraudiere and began eagerly scribbling ideas in their journals. After a vow of secrecy, the writers toiled away all morning before breaking at lunch.
After lunch all the girls (and chaperones) visited Nantes. This bustling metropolis is a perfect blend of the past and present, especially with the outré elephant from the world of Jules Verne, legendary science fiction author. After visiting the Flamboyant Gothic cathedral, the girls cooled down with some gelato before heading back to the bus.
With all these adventures in one day, the girls can hardly wait to see what escapades await them tomorrow! Lauren, Mary Clare, Ellie, and Emma

We have reached our destination!!

Ellie's 18th Birthday Celebration at La Giraudiere!

Mont St. Michel

The Chateau

After spending the night in the beautiful Chateaubriand Hotel, we traveled to Mont St Michel, where we walked hundreds of steps to the top of the magnificent Abbey that appears to rise out of the quick sand in the English Channel. Our next stop was near Nantes where we visited the memorial to those members of the Resistance of the Marquis d'Saffre who lost their lives in that very spot - another moving experience. We have now reached our home away from home - La Giraudiere, where we begin classes early in the morning. The girls have settled in after a truly French birthday celebration for Ellie. She will never forget her 18th birthday. More tomorrow - Ann

We started our day at the Bayeux Tapestry, unaware that this sequential record of the Battle of Hastings would be completely eclipsed by the majesty of the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach. From the D-Day Museum at Arromanches to Point du Hoc, we followed the history and bravery that we have always read about but never understood until we stood where they stood and imagined what they saw. As we entered the hallowed grounds of the American Cemetery, each girl tried to find her connection to the people who gave their lives for what was right and good. Passing through the rows of fallen comrades, we noticed names that represented every nationality--there were stars of David among the thousands of Christian crosses. After today every girl was changed forever.

Shopping, Macaroons, and Everything in Between

In our French Fairyland: Hotel d' Argouges in Bayeaux

On Monet's Japanese Bridge, June 27th

In front of the Sacre Coeur, June 26th

We began today's journey by waiting on Emma and Ellie to grace us with their presence. After a pleasant bus ride, we arrived at Giverny and toured Monet's home and enchanting gardens. Although the weather was scorching (and apparently Monet did not believe in air conditioning), we had a lovely time and bought gifts for our loved ones back home. Today's trivia winners were Dumbledore's Army (Ellie and Emma) and once again, the W's (Lauren and Mary Clare). They were awarded homemade ice cream for their efforts. Our next stop was the history filled town of Rouen where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. We went through the Notre Dame de Rouen and strolled around quaint shops, buying more gifts for our loved ones and this time, ourselves. We snacked on delicious macaroons and Joan of Arc's tears; they were so delicious we became quite emotional ourselves. Then, after many stops along the way, we finally made it to the location where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. Back on the bus, we napped and napped and napped until we finally arrived at the French fairyland of Hotel d'Argouges. After an authentic french dinner, we will bed down early in the town of Bayeaux. We miss you but are having a marvelous time!

À demain et au revoir!

les filles dramatique: Lily Kate, Elizabeth K, Ellie, and Emma

June 24 - 26 pics

Sunday, June 26th

The last 2 days in Paris have been a blast. In just 2 days we have been to The Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs - Elysees, Notre Dame, Musee d'Orsay, and the memorial at the sight of the Jewish deportation during WW II. In the midst of all that, we have managed to eat at the Creperie de Cluny, practice our French words, and learn as much about French history and French artists as we can hold. We are on to Montmartre this evening. After a good night's sleep we board a bus to Giverney. We will have much to report tomorrow night.

Busy Day

Busy day today. We walked 20,000 steps according to the pedometer. Going to bed. We are exhausted. Will report more tomorrow.

Attention Painters!!

Don't forget to bring a paint shirt and finish reading "Private Lives of the French Impressionists."

Last Minute Reminders

Arrive at the Delta terminal at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, June 24. Remember the restrictions about liquids or gels in your carry-on luggage - 3.4 oz. or smaller, all liquid containers in only ONE quart size ziploc bag. Bring a change of clothing in your carry-on in case of lost luggage. It is a good idea to bring a toothbrush and small toothpaste and deodorant in your carry-on. Dress comfortably for the long flight. (Reminder to the art students: Do not carry your paints in your carry on.)

One week from today we will be on our way! Can't wait to see you all at the airport.

Final Information

Be looking for the final letter from Dean Maness with last minute instructions, reminders, and notices. It should be arriving in a few days.

Painting En Plein Air in the 100º Heat!

Six of our "Neo-Impressionists" painted in the scorching heat this morning at the McCarty home. I meant to take pictures to post, but I forgot. The young artists did an outstanding job, never complaining once about the heat and humidity. They all finished a beautiful little painting. Great job ladies. The next time we all paint together will be at La Giraudière.