Today's Journal

A Lovely Weekend in St. Augustine, Florida

My husband and I traveled to St. Augustine, Florida last weekend for a beautiful family wedding. Neither of us had been to this area of the sunny state of Florida, so we enjoyed exploring this charming town.  Of course, I have always been fascinated by the story of Ponce de Leon and his search for the Fountain of Youth. It seems that not all historians agree!    

There does seem to be agreement that Ponce de Leon landed in April, 1513 while searching for the Fountain on the island of Bimini, thought to be in the Gulf of Hondoras.  He named his landing site "La Florida", a name which continues today! As he sailed along the Florida coastline, he also discovered a strong current which he predicted would carry Spanish ships back to Spain more quickly. Thus, he also discovered the Gulf Stream.

In 1562, the French Huguenots sought to build a colony as a haven from their native France. Unfortunately, the ship with their provisions never arrived and they sailed back to France.  

We discovered a wonderful French restaurant, Bistro de Leon, situated in the historic district across the plaza which was the original Marketplace.  On the menu the traditional Croque Madame and Croque Monsieur, not commonly found in the US.  Though tempting, we chose  le plat du jour. (the plate of the day!) 

It was a delightful lunch...an authentic mixed green salad with the same exquisite vinaigrette that I have enjoyed at almost every restuarant that I have eaten in France. This was followed by a vegetable couscous topped with crisp asparagus. Perfect! 

With the beautiful blue skies, sunshine and French baguette we could have been in the Provencal countryside on a spring day.

Which reminds me...we have just added several bright French jacquard tablecloths from Provence. They are beautiful, well priced and best of all easy-care.  The threads have been treated with a Teflon coating, so that water, wine and stains simply bead up on the surface...waiting to be wiped off!   You can hardly feel the coating, but you immediately will see the difference!