On Christmas Even we went to Carpentras, which is a little northeast of Avignon and which is apparently known for its black truffle market. 

Ignoring the challenge of finding our way there and parking, this was hands down the best excursion of the trip so far. 

First there was a little area with local foods and drinks, so we got a vin chaud to keep us warm while we strolled. After these booths we popped into the tourist center where there was a little shop of Provencal goods -- including wine, beer, olive oil, truffle oil, lavender, essential oils, and nougat. I got beer in a way cool bottle, olive oil in a way cool can, and nougat because the lady there said it's a Provencal tradition to eat nougat on Christmas. 

Then we continued our stroll.   

can’t really see this star covered in pine cones and flowers and moss (oh my!)

Not sure... 

Olives

Moving vignette  

Why is Jesus in a cage?

Are these Clydesdales? 

Petting zoo

I am your father. 

Cool building  

Oh no! They’ve spotted us!  

We live in Dublin