A scattered day … We went to bank in Vaison la Romaine in the morning to set up joint European account — “come back at 1:30.” We have lunch and walk around old Vaison la Romaine, especially getting ideas for Chez Mirabel’s front entry area (i.e., iron outside gate and glass front door). Back at bank for 1-1/2 hour “interview” for new account setup, had to show recent U.S. utility & tax bills (but not birth or marriage records); account will probably be set up in about week after they receive a reference from our U.S. bank. Drive to Nord Avignon to the most incredible sea of “big box stores” to shop for paint samples. Completely blows away my preconceived image of France only having small quaint shops, although these huge shopping centers/malls do seem to be isolated & concentrated. 
Finally, finished the day with an amazing dinner at Coteaux & Fourchettes outside Cairanne with a work colleague of Dory’s and her husband, Jill & Charlie. They are on a trip through France researching an upcoming wine tour to be lead by Charlie. Whew!
– Rick