Courtyards feel protective yet exposed at the same time, like you’re in the trust tree in the nest of stone and vines. There’s nothing sexier than beckoning your lover home and whispering “let’s step into the courtyard” while you struggle with your heels. When you trip, gently grasp his neck and say something like, “These cobblestones! They’re murder!” and then surrender to his uncontrollable desire to kiss you while you slip on some moss.

Really, moss can be an issue. But it’s full of character and speaks volumes of the woman who utilizes it. She’s classy and fabulous and winning in a man’s world. You want to be this woman and embracing moss will get you there.

But back to the courtyard. You can reach it from the grand salon or the lower gallery or the oubliette, which is where I hide everything I don’t want anyone to know about. Relax, I’ll show you the oubliette eventually. I can’t just dole out my entire château to you in one weekend. I actually have three courtyards, but before you judge me and say “who needs three courtyards you greedy French girl”, just remember that I was forced to kill mice as a child, so back off.  Enjoy this lovely spot and come visit soon.

xx,
Madeline