Sunday, June 8, 2025

June 5 – Flat Stanley Brayden’s Adventure Blog: Ancient Abbeys, French Villages, and a Special Celebration!

 Bonjour, explorers! Flat Stanley Brayden here. Today was filled with ancient history, peaceful countryside, and a very special toast. Let’s see what made June 5 so memorable!

Morning in Caudebec: Abbey Adventures and River Rides

We woke up in the pretty town of Caudebec-en-Caux, right on the Seine River. After breakfast, we had some awesome choices for our morning adventure:

  • Guided Trip Along the Normandy Abbeys Route:
    Some of us joined a tour to see the ancient abbeys and churches along the river. Did you know there are more than 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys in Normandy? We visited places where monks lived and prayed hundreds of years ago, and the buildings were full of beautiful stained glass and tall stone arches.

  • Bike Ride Along the Seine:
    Others hopped on bikes for a relaxing ride along the riverbank. The air smelled fresh, and we saw wildflowers, little boats, and even some friendly ducks!

  • V-1 Flying Bomb Launch Site:
    For those who love history, there was a special tour to a World War II V-1 flying bomb launch site. We learned how these sites were hidden in the French countryside and how brave people worked to stop them.




Jumièges Abbey 



Abbaye Saint-Wandrille

Father LouLou



Saint Wandrille's skull

Big Door...

but a little key

Afternoon Leisure: Exploring or Relaxing

After our morning tours, we had the afternoon free! Some of us took an optional trip to the seaside town of Honfleur, famous for its colorful harbor and artists. Others stayed onboard to relax, read, or just watch the river drift by.


A Toast to 32 Years!

Tonight was extra special—there was a celebration for a 32nd anniversary! And it was Rob and Toni. The whole dining room cheered, and we raised our glasses (with sparkling cider for me!) to toast to love, friendship, and adventures together. The chef even made a special dessert to mark the occasion.


Evening Onboard: Stories and Sunsets

As the sun set, we listened to a presentation about Normandy’s history and watched the sky turn pink over the river. I felt lucky to be in such a beautiful place, surrounded by new friends and amazing stories.


Cartoon Fun: Flat Stanley Brayden’s Abbey Day



Question for You

If you could explore an ancient building or celebrate something special on a trip, what would you choose? Who would you want to celebrate with?


That’s all for today, fellow travelers! Tomorrow, we’ll keep exploring Normandy’s wonders. Stay tuned for more adventures with Flat Stanley Brayden!

Bonne nuit (good night) from the Seine!


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