This is why one needs to be very certain about ID before gathering wild mushrooms. A guess could be fatal.

I always hesitate to ID fungi because they are so variable!!

Reading the wiki article was interesting.

The names may be different, but the fungi are the same.

My first thought was that they look like steinpilz, a favorite in Germany... So I looked it up, and...

The same!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boletus_edulis

We used to mail home boxes of the stuff, but then at home never look at it. I do like keychains though!

I thought almost all souvenirs were made in China these days. Once in a while I see some that are made by local craftsmen, but they are quite expensive. Luckily, I have no instinct to buy souvenirs, no matter where they come from.

I agrée. The assembly is currently considering a law raising the requirements to drive one of these to at least the same as those for scooters under 50cc (about 3.5 cubic inches for our Imperial friends). At least they don’t go very fast, nor do they weigh much. I have seen versions used for delivery in the city, where they seem practical using little gas to potter around.

Reminds me of Monty Python and the Holy Grail « you bore me English pig-dog. I fart in your general direction ».

Too bad we did not know this before we went past it. Maybe next time.

Ah, the distinction between pieced together bits of coloured glass, and painted glass pieces then put together.

It is great to have you offering us your informed insights as a long time expat.

Villandry is one of our favourite spots and is only 20 kms from Tours, so an easy out and back ride with lots of time left in the day to explore the Chateau and gardens.

The attention to detail and the craftsmanship were totally incredible.

Maybe Wal-Mart needs to start an adult sized lined of assorted animal ride ons?

Sounds like a recipe for repeat disaster. Maybe those with suspended licences need to be issued a 1 speed bicycle and not be able to use anything else until their suspension is lifted?