Impressions of Provence

My most recent show was titled "Impressions of Provence"  where I slightly manipulated the photos to give a painterly look.  Here is a favorite from that show - Provence Market!  I was so excited to win a first place award for this photo in a "Best of 2015" competition with members of my photography group.

Noël in Strasbourg

Strasbourg was very festive in December.  Not only had the Christmas markets been up since November, but there were decorations all around the city.  We noticed the lights hanging over the streets first of all.  One section of the city had these beautiful chandeliers hung inside huge lanterns.  Not all the chandeliers were exactly alike, but all so beautiful!

One of the huge squares that was set up with Christmas markets, also had the normal fruit and vegetable markets, as well.  And in this square, there was a tall Christmas tree, too!  The tree was decorated all over with lights, and other decorations, and at the foot of the tree, there was a wonderful little village, all decorated as well.  

Here are some other decorations we saw as we wandered the streets, mostly sticking to the older, narrow streets without car traffic: a tree that looked like it was coming out of the side of a building, although, upon further inspection one could see the trunk of the tree hiding behind the restaurant sign,

and some very decorated storefronts, this one was typical.

My favorite, however, was this one:  I loved the decoration above the door - especially the angel.  And, even better, this one had delicious spice bread and cookies!

It was a real treat for us to be in Strasbourg during Noël!

Le Marché de Noël

What an interesting visit to the Alsace area of France!  We stayed in Strasbourg for a three day trip to this area.  It seemed very cold to us, but not bad at all compared to what people in most of the U.S. are experiencing right now!

The markets are located throughout the city of Strasbourg.  The city is wonderful in that it is very easy to navigate and we enjoyed walking all over.  This is the entrance to one of the markets.

One is able to find almost anything desired in these markets!  Decorations and ornaments of all shapes and sizes are sold, as well as, all kinds of wonderful food!

The most interesting is the hot spiced wine!  It is not only a special treat, but it certainly helps to keep your fingers warm!