A visit to the dentist

This is something we have both put off for too long, partly because of the language problem but also I have to admit to waiting for the 183 days initial period before the insurance kicks in.

I have to say I any very impressed with the whole service, here in France you don't have to sign up with a particular dentist you just have to make an appointment with any one that suits you.

We went to one in our village as It is close to home, ( I could even walk if I wanted to ) we both called in together to make an appointment and were offered one within 3 or 4 days, something that is practically unknown in the UK I think.

This morning we went for an examination and check up to see what needed to be done, Avril needed one small filling replaced which he did on the spot, I needed 3 or 4, he sorted out the most urgent one straight away and offered me a choice of days during the next week to carry on the treatment.
I am more than impressed.
In addition, both of us agreed afterwards that it was probably the best dental treatment we had ever had I didn't even realise I had had an injection until my gum started going numb. He also took several x rays all of which he processed immediately on the computer in the room and used for reference.

The way the system works over here is you have to show your "Carte Vitale" ( your health card ) and pay for the treatment, approximately 70% of this is refunded to your bank account within 3-4 days and the balance from the Insurance, again direct to your bank a couple of days later.

An afternoon walk

I went out for an afternoon walk around the lake and town yesterday afternoon and made a mental note that I must do it more often. You see so much more when you are walking than when you are in the car driving.
The weather is starting to pick up as well and gives a hint that Spring is on it's way.

Here is a renovated "Lavoir" near to me that I didn't even know was there, do people still use these? It was in very good condition and the water was crystal clear .

I then walked around the lake, there were loads of birds apart from the resident swans that always come towards you to see if you have any food for them.

I especially liked this family of ducks that were keeping pace with me as I walked along.

I must admit to not being very good when in comes to identifying birds! Anyone know what this pair are?

There was one shower of rain while I was out which was convenient as I was right outside a cafe/bar so a welcome opportunity for a beer. I then walked back near the " Moulin Du Chaos " the massive boulders that Huelgoat is famous for.

All in all about a 4 mile round trip and a very pleasant couple of hours out on a nice January afternoon.