Interesting to read a bit about your research. I listened to a French podcast recently that talked about the impact of less winter snow on survival of alpine plants. If I remember correctly, as a non -scientist (my PhD was in French literature), the problem was that the absence of a protective layer of snow meant the plants could be killed by spring frosts. I think it was from the series La Terre au Carré on France Inter.
Hi Linda--Yes, that is definitely an issue for many alpine plants, despite being a bit counterintuitive! I hope to write a post in the future about alpine plant adaptations and I'm sure this will come up.
I had to laugh when I read that moving to a new place is like drinking from a novelty fire hose! We moved a lot in our early years and that description is spot on! Grenoble looks like a lovely place. I’m glad you got to move there in the spring of the year rather than depressing mid-winte. This timing helps with new beginnings.
Also, could you include a photo of the outside of your apartment building so I have some idea of where you live? It will make me feel like a less Anxious Auntie. I adopt far more humans and creatures without their knowing it than is necessary, but I can’t seem to help myself. And if this forum is too public of a place to disclose your building, just text me a photo.
Anne, I enjoyed reading this very much! The opening and closing thoughts were particularly intriguing and meaningful for me. I loved your reason for writing: "Routine is inevitable and necessary. But the goal of my writing is to counteract this: to keep my senses fresh to the novelty of both the spectacular and the everyday—to never stop discovering the place where I live." I need to follow your example. Can't wait to read more!
Interesting to read a bit about your research. I listened to a French podcast recently that talked about the impact of less winter snow on survival of alpine plants. If I remember correctly, as a non -scientist (my PhD was in French literature), the problem was that the absence of a protective layer of snow meant the plants could be killed by spring frosts. I think it was from the series La Terre au Carré on France Inter.
Hi Linda--Yes, that is definitely an issue for many alpine plants, despite being a bit counterintuitive! I hope to write a post in the future about alpine plant adaptations and I'm sure this will come up.
This place looks like a dream! You are so fortunate to be able to experience all of this. You will love Grenoble, and Grenoble will love you!
I had to laugh when I read that moving to a new place is like drinking from a novelty fire hose! We moved a lot in our early years and that description is spot on! Grenoble looks like a lovely place. I’m glad you got to move there in the spring of the year rather than depressing mid-winte. This timing helps with new beginnings.
Also, could you include a photo of the outside of your apartment building so I have some idea of where you live? It will make me feel like a less Anxious Auntie. I adopt far more humans and creatures without their knowing it than is necessary, but I can’t seem to help myself. And if this forum is too public of a place to disclose your building, just text me a photo.
Keep writing! Love, Aunt Al
You’re very right about spring! I think it’s made a huge difference in my first impressions. And I will send you a photo :)
Anne, I enjoyed reading this very much! The opening and closing thoughts were particularly intriguing and meaningful for me. I loved your reason for writing: "Routine is inevitable and necessary. But the goal of my writing is to counteract this: to keep my senses fresh to the novelty of both the spectacular and the everyday—to never stop discovering the place where I live." I need to follow your example. Can't wait to read more!
Thanks so much Jan!
Um, yes. I'll take the Chartreuse Massif, and a side of L'Isere.
hahaha yes!