13 Comments

Delightful read, I was right their with you.

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A beautifully written story. Thank you, Lynne. Prompted memories of my husband and I (both 25) visiting The Lygon Arms - a very upscale hotel in Broadway, The Cotswolds, England. My father knew the owner and we hoped we'd be invited to stay there without paying. Turned out the owner was practically on his deathbed! We were invited to visit him for about 20 minutes, then slunk away - appalled at our callousness. How lucky you were Ms.Arpel was well and able to host you.

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A colourful but poignant story. Thank you for this.

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What a beautiful story turned into a lifelong memory.

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What a wonderful experience and special memory of Debby and Ms. Arpel for you And what an enchanting story for me to read.

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What a lovely memory and a lovely piece of writing.

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I lived this experience with you while reading this delightful memory. I loved this read.

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This is a delightful tale, very well told. The dance of life brings unexpected pleasures and chance encounters that stay with us forever. Thank you, Lynne, for sharing this shining sliver of your dance.

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I like the line "Debby and I did our best to sound sophisticated". I had a somewhat similar experience at that age as a kid from Canada bicycling and youth-hostelling through Europe. In London I was invited to lunch with a group of artists and literati. I was in awe of their erudition.

I felt totally outclassed, and kept silent as much as possible. If asked a question, like you I did my best to sound sophisticated!

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I have a 'Debby' in my life whom I miss terribly. I will reach out to her today. Thank you for reminding us of the importance of friendships.

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Charming! The magic of adventures abroad. Can you tell us what the connection was between your father and Mrs. Arpel?

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My father met the Arpels in Paris at the end of WWII. Thereafter they were friends and patients of my father..

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Thank you for replying. Lana

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