Homps - Trebes 12 April

We were prepared for many locks today, but not so prepared. Everytime one thinks you have the hang of it then some other feature appears.

And so it is with the French language. Sailing down the Midi, between locks we revise the 875 French words we have learnt, but we are still not prepared for the speed with which these people talk. Very proud though to have understand a couple, who having seen the Swedish flag, told us in French that their daughter is married to a Finn, but she speaks Swedish. Like a good Finn would. (Carl)

A weather check before taking off. The Homp Capitainerie is also the tourist office and wine cellar. Captain is waiting for someone to carry the barrels to the boat. 

On route to Trebes. How many locks. At least 2 triple, 3 double and several singles. 

This is the triple at San Martin?

Finally arrived to Trebes. Laundromat for the first time along Midi. And book shop. 

Travelled together a bit of the way behind a couple and their two grandchildren. Met them in the restaurant tonight. They are from Toulon and are real sea sailors. The grandfather says he is not used to the rivers boats! And we have seen that, having travelled behind them! Their boat, an older mini barge type, seems to have its own life, going this way and that. 

And at the restaurant we taste our first cassoulet, a dish with white bean, duck and pork and a number of other unidentified things. Recommended by son-in-law, John. What will come out of this?

At the this moment one is half dead and the other one is more than proppmätt. The night will give the final count, says Carl.