springfever

We travel extensively in France with our two and have never had to produce documents.  But essential to have them with you.  Do you live in France?  If not please take great care to make sure your dogs are as protected as much as possible against ticks.  Big problem here especially in the south.  Have fun!  We love it and so do our dogs!  Can recommend some excellent dog friendly sites if interested.

I, too, am very surprised by milkeybar's comments.  I feel this will give a misleading impression to anyone who is interested in Leggies and would like to give a different viewpoint. We were new to this area a few months ago and when we arrived we knew absolutely no-one.  Our house is quite remote and we felt extremely vulnerable. We were 'ripe for plucking' if anyone ever was! I had left all my friends and family in UK so put up a message on a forum, very similar to that of Nectarine.  I received some lovely replies, one of which was an invitiation to join Leggies. This I did, and I can quite truthfully say that my experience was overwhelmingly positive.  Without exception, everyone I met was friendly, welcoming and supportive.  People were interested but in no way pushy.  Through them, I was put in touch with others who live near us. I was given access to many different activities social and otherwise, but there was no pressure, just a friendly welcome. They were a mine of information as they had all been there before us and knew the pitfulls, but again this information was offered freely when asked, and not pushed.  Most important was the support that was given, if and when it was needed.  And as independent as we like to be, this is so necessary and very much appreciated.  So many mistakes can be made, when new to any new area and society.  In such a short time, we have formed the basis of some very valuable friendships and we feel very happy here. As for tradesmen, we did and still do need such services, but at no time were we 'bombarded' with such offers as described.  On the contrary, people warned us as to who and what to avoid.  Suggestions were made, but it was down to us to do our homework and research and make our decisions.  But the best advice we were offered, was to go to Mairie and ask there as their recommendations were based on their knowledge and experience of all local artisans. Of course we want to enjoy the French way of life but this takes time.  To integrate fully and successfully you need to have a strong understanding of the language and the way of life as well as considerable confidence!  How many of us possess this level of skill straight off?  We need the support and friendship of our compatriots whilst this happens and what is wrong with that?  As well as joining Leggies, we have attended the village events.  We have again met with amazing kindness and this from all nationalities in our village - French, Belgium, Dutch, Australian and Irish! At the end of the day, it is down to the individual.  It is about what you want, what you give and what you expect.  We are only very thankful that these lovely people are there for us and have made such a difference to our lives in such a short time. Gail, we live in the next village to you and we would be very happy to meet you and extend the welcome on to you.  You only have to say.  Good luck!