joy of opening bedroom curtains in the morning to look over a sea of ancient russet-coloured tiled roofs .
11 . The French love dogs , each time I take mine for a walk around my village , someone stops to talk . As I pass , I hear classical music from one house , and wonderful cooking smells from another ! It takes dog walking to a whole new level !
12 . Ease of travel – the great roads ( few potholes !). And by TGV it takes just two hours from my local station in South West France to Paris .
13 . The French are incredibly polite and always greet you with a handshake or ‘ bises ’ ( kiss on the cheek ), just how many depends on which part of the country you live in !
14 . The beautiful light - especially in Provence - no wonder the Impressionists loved to paint there !
15 . Discovering regional foods and dishes – so many to try , so little time !
16 . Wine tasting with friends in Saint- Émilion , especially with someone who knows good wine !
17 . Feasting on the ballet in Bordeaux , shopping in the Chartreuse , browsing antique shops and then choosing between fabulous restaurants for lunch .
18 . Visiting brocantes , finding all sorts of wonders from tables and chairs to armoires , beautiful old carved beds and things to upcycle .
19 . I love the changing seasons , watching the migration of the cranes ( Grus ) which fly right over my garden .
20 . And finally , coming home to my lovely ancient house and my garden . My parents , loved my home from the moment they first visited , for me it ’ s a love affair which continues !