Aix en Provence Shopping

This morning we decided to take the short drive into Aix en Provence to spend the afternoon. We spent a lot of time here two years ago and it is really a great city. Once we were able to maneuver the parking garage in the city center, we ran into the most interesting street performers as well as the market. We did not know Thursdays were market days in Aix so that is always a fun surprise. Although after visiting the many markets this past week we are starting to know the market vendors as it seems they just travel town to town selling their goods. Everything is pretty much the same. One can only have so many soaps, table linens, produce and assortment of odds and ends. Regardless it is still fun (for me anyway) to walk through.

We couldn't figure this one out and they were in the same position the entire time we were in Aix.  I'm intrigued! What happens when they have to go to the bathroom?

Market day in Aix!

When we visit Aix during our vacations there is one guaranteed stop - Catimini for some lovely French smocks for Ms London. We found our store and London chose to wear her new dress and shoes out for the day. Who can blame her?? Their stuff is so beautiful and amazing for little girls. So loaded down with shopping bags and dressed to the nine's we headed out through the alleys of shops in Aix.

Pretty Little Girl in her New Outfit

If our photos of this trip don't lie, then one could say we have been eating quite often and quite a lot of long meals! Although I can recall a few of my favorite restaurants in Aix I don't think any of us could handle a pre-fix 3 course lunch. We just wanted something light for lunch. We needed a break from eating and the obligatory rose wine that we typically have with lunch. So we grabbed a little snack and sat at one of the many beautiful fountains in Aix to people watch. It was quite enjoyable! The only problem was that we didn't properly plan. Our 'light lunch' didn't take as long as usual and then when we were ready to go all of the shops were closed until 3:00. Hmmmmm, I think Steve probably planned this perfectly. How did I not catch on to this one???!

A Catimini-clad girl always has a smile and a pose for the camera!

What to have???

Lunchtime Ambiance

Fortunately our stroller didn't topple over due to the weight of our shopping bags! ;->

It was hot in Aix today and this little pooch couldn't resist a fountain cool down. We have no idea where his owners were but he made a few laps around the fountain and then jumped out to catch up with him. I felt a little bad for the people who weren't expecting the 'doggie shake-off' and got a little cool down when he ran by shaking off the excess water.

Wait for me!!! Brave little guy!

Our day takes a turn for the south when we realize that the beloved carousel in Aix is no longer where it used to be. If it moved we couldn't find it therefore we had an unhappy little fashionista on our hands.

 Needless to say with most of the shops closed, the heat and the carousel missing we figured it was time to head home. Let's get back to our beach to cool off and relax. There will be more time for Aix shopping on this trip! Back to Bandol we go!

This water sure feels good!

London negotiating a deeper swim to the platform!

Not without floaty!

Looks like Dad convinced her that making her into a sand mermaid was a better option.

Who wouldn't want to be a mermaid?? 

A mermaid with her own sand castle behind her!

Ma Petite Sirene

'Seriously, how are we going to get all this sand out of my bathing suit???'

 It is difficult to believe but the sun was still shining well after 7:30 pm so we headed to the carousel after some fun at the beach. We don't need the Aix carousel when we have a wallet full of 25+ tickets to our Bandol carousel!!!!

Finally a Carousel ride today!!!

Yes, I am trying to spin as fast as possible!

 Who knows how many carousel rides later, it was time to head back to the apartment. Gotta love this view on our way home. I am pretty sure it doesn't get any better than this. Well, wait, perhaps if we were on one of those 100+ ft yachts, it might get better! ;-> We are all pretty happy and thankful to have this time in one of the most beautiful parts of the France and the world! Bonne Nuit!