Cascade of water

Monday
I enjoyed a delightful walk this morning around the park of the chateau. There are various gardens around the chateau, but the most extensive is the park area around the grand canal, which was built under the reign of Henri IV (1606-1609). Its current layout is organised into a network of tree-lined alleys, radiating pathways and cascades and makes a lovely area to stroll, jog, bike, walk a dog etc. I don't remember noticing these cascades from our previous residence in the area, but that was over 17 years ago, and we've found our memories have played funny tricks on us! We've visited several places in the last few weeks which we were sure we'd visited before, but they don't seem at all familiar! Obviously, some things will have changed significantly in 20 years, for example there have been a lot of new roads built, but historic buildings, churches and chateaux shouldn't have changed much, other than perhaps having undergone cleaning! As I say, the park area is quite extensive, so it's also possible I never went down this particular alley. Another difference between then and now of course is that I don't have young kids around distracting me! There was definitely a feel of the approach of Fall today, as the temperatures have cooled off over the weekend, and leaves of some trees were beginning to change color and fall from the trees.
This evening there were fireworks in the grounds of the chateau. Late afternoon , between about 5 and 6 we had some fairly heavy rain showers come through, and I began to wonder if they would go off. It was still drizzling as we walked into town to eat (Chinese food tonight for a change!), but fortunately the rain held off and the fireworks took place. Not exactly up to the level of Cincinnati's Riverfest fireworks which will be taking place in a week or so over Labor Day weekend, but then you wouldn't expect them to be, as Fontainebleau is a much smaller town. However, they were quite impressive nonetheless, against the beautiful classical backdrop of the chateau.

One year ago: Canoeing on the Little Miami