A kind invitation...

I come here to tell you about a past weekend, of those who upset us, who transport us... But most of all, they inspire us.

After a few hours of travel, we met in Charente on a Friday evening at the end of August. It was already dark, days were getting shorter by the minute. I could hardly distinguish what was around me: it had to be said that nothing was familiar to me. Neither the venue, nor the guests. What united them all: music. Which brought me here, me: a kind invitation.

After a late dinner in the light of the lanterns and accompanied by moths, we crossed the interior of the property to take possession of our rooms. There, the astonishment was great. And weak words. We discovered a noble family home full of history, life and memories. Walls decorated with portraits and period tapestries, rooms decorated with antique furniture strewn with books, endless corridors along which mysterious doors lined up, a parquet floor creaking beneath our feet. So we fell asleep impressed, curious and in a hurry for the days to come...

The next day, at breakfast, a large wooden table offered us a wide choice of jams, honey, bread, coffee and tea... These special places, the cheerful discussions and the sincere laughter spread in this kitchen a happy and friendly atmosphere. Later on, the whole day under the sun was punctuated by applied music, giving life to this great residence. In the evening, bassoons, flute and cello came together to offer the village church a pleasant concert.

The next day, a blazing sun broke through the house's multiple windows. Far from being stunned by this heat, we decided to make our own pasta for breads, pizzas and cakes. Everyone's ideas and appetites burst forth! But above all, a wood-burning oven allowed the cooks to see their masterpieces cooked under their eyes, in the old-fashioned way... Appetizing smells filled the surroundings, and all were able to assert with enthusiasm that they tasted there the best food of their life. Finally, a stroll and a swim at the lake punctuated our stay.

As ordinary or insignificant as this weekend may seem, it was extraordinary to me. The smell of the wood fire, the sound of the instruments, the charm and history of the place, the simplicity of the guests and the occupations... I could perceive all these details, and make a real memory of them. Thus, the kind invitation that was given to me allowed me to live an authentic, disconnected moment. Of those that are considered exceptional. And that will forever mark you.