Saturday, 31 May 2025

Swallows in the Sky; Cherries, Strawberries and Aspargus in the Market

May 2025: A Whole Host of Public Holidays 

1.5.25: May Day Public Holiday

"Up the Workers Day!" on which it's traditional to give a sprig of lily-of-the-valley. Nowadays, it's more likely to be a virtual one. There was no trip to the market as the 1st is a holiday all through Europe; well that is except for UK where pragmatism makes it the nearest Monday. 


Still spent the day with Michel though. Coffee in Céret, an apéro at the village bar, a trip down to Banyuls for a walk and cuppa and finally an apéro dinatoire chez JJ.

2.5.25: 

Michel has friends Nicole & Daniel here for the weekend and I was included in all that was going on. Coffee at the market followed by an impromptu apéro at mine. I was on apéros again in the evening this time at Michel's; what's more I managed to come up with something different. Didn't stay for moules/frites; not my thing. 

4.5.25:

Sunday Nicole and Daniel had the pleasure of meeting more of Michel's friends; coffee and croissants at the café in the morning and then in the evening when Michel broke his "only six around the table rule" to seven to accommodate Jacques. A waterproof and wellies came into their own for the walk over. 

In between I had a long standing date to meet up with Ann & Terry and Viv and Pepe at the restaurant. The latter used to have a holiday home in the village but sold up just before covid. The meal was excellent as usual.

Tonight's sunset was a beauty

 5.5.25: 4 Musketeers

Coffee with Mark and his Dad (my late friend Maggie's son and husband), supermarket run with Nick and tea with Michel. He's on the go all the time either entertaining or being entertained to full on meals and it's beginning to show.

A great music night at the café with a real variety of music ending with Las Cuerdas (cords in Spanish), real favourites of mine.  

6.5.25:

An interesting session at the "oldies" group where there was a presentation about the work of "handi-chiens", an association that trains and provides  dogs for assisted living and emotional support in the judicial system. Needless to say, Uffi a beautiful black lab, stole the show. 

8.5.25: 

A public holiday for V.E. Day though Michel and I went to the market rather than going to the wreath laying at the War Memorial.

9.5.25:

 We've had some rain these last few days which has renewed the cap of snow on Canigou. Instead of doing our patriotic duty on V.E.Day yesterday by attending the usual wreath laying ceremony, a group of us dodged the showers in Figueres.

10.5.25:

Heavy rain all day, meant that Pierre's vernissage was very poorly attended. Shame as his pastels are technically well executed and very pleasing on the eye. As he's a neighbour and part of our social circle when he comes from Belgium, I braved the weather in solidarity. Much to my surprise, I didn't even have a glass of wine as compensation!   

10.5.25:

Went to the market with Michel and met up with Patrick for coffee; next an apéro with Michèle & Henri plus the Maire's parents, met a Jimi Hendrix fan on the bus home and went back again in the evening with JJ for an apéritif dinatoire chez Jean & Françoise who had  family staying. 

11.5.25 A Real Sunday Lunch

Roast pork, all the trimmings, a tasty cheese board and strawberry tiramisu with lashings of cream chez Joyce & Keith, from Yorkshire, who are really friends of Nicole's. During the course of the afternoon there was an almighty storm with large hailstones which meant that we stayed on longer until it was safe to drive. 

13.5.25:

Still having rain which provided inspiration for the oldies' group's attempts at Haiku which should include a nature or seasonal theme. Was more pleasing than I would have thought. 

Still on a nature theme, this was tonight's flower full moon

 15.5.25:

The usual Thursday in Figueres routine; coffee at the Centric bar where the waitress is keen to get Michel and I together, fruit and veg market shopping, apéro at the market bar with the staff turning a blind eye to our "picnic".

16.5.25: Yes, it's that time again

JJ came to help with my tax return or should I say returns; there are 3 forms to fill in. We went back and forth until we couldn't face any more and gave up!

 

18.5.25: 


 A relatively quiet couple of days but all changed today. 9 of us for the "Kaffeeklatsch" at the bar and then 14 of us on Jacques' rooftop terrace where there was a bbq to mark his and Pierre's birthdays this last week. There was an abundance of hats to protect from the sun, freshly picked cherries, loads of grilled meat to eat and plenty of wine and cava to drink. "All good pals and jolly good company!!" as they say.

19.5.25:

2nd attempt at the tax on Monday went ok after some advice from the helpline; well, that is until the very last part when a pop up window said there was a "anomaly". As we couldn't get any farther, we called it a day.

 

20.5.25:

 

 

Oldies chair yoga.

 


 


 

Dinner chez Jacques photo by Michel 

21.5.25:
 
3rd attempt at the tax return and as before, the way was tortuous; going round in circles, endless false starts and another call to the helpline. Apparently we'd been given the wrong advice the last time and newly equipped with the right information, we managed to get it done. At last!
Didn't have any lunch, just coffee and cheesecake at Michel's. Couldn't stay too long as there was an apéritif dinatoire to prepare for six of us this evening. 


Managed to be ready dead on the dot of 19h; Pierre arrived five minutes later. Much to my delight he brought me a framed, signed hand painted version of the poster. as usual, I'd done too much but the upside is there'll be a cooking free day tomorrow.
 
22.5.25:
 
Michel and I were joined on our trip to Figueres by JJ and Dali. The apéro was more elaborate than usual as it included a couple of sacher torte. still no word of sanction. Stopped off at Dali's on the way back and weren't able to leave until we'd had a drink and agreed to take away two tupperware boxes each of food. Made it to Nicole's on time for the knitting group which had more chat than knitting going on.
 
23.5.25:

A mammoth shopping trip to Figueres. Nicole and I both filled our bags and then our stomachs at 50 Voltes. Smart surroundings, tasty 3 course meal which included nibbles and a glass wine then surprise, surprise, a glass of cava was offered at the end. More shopping and tired feet later we headed for home well pleased with ourselves.
A call came from Michel just as I walked through the door than Michel phoned with an invitation for an apéro with Jacques & Suzette. Lo and behold, the fatigue disappeared as if by magic!
 
26.5.25:
A Corsican meal chez Florence & Patrick along with Michel last night and dinner at chez Jacques this evening. 
 
27.5.25:
Result of a pottery session at the over 65's group. Came a away with a Ferro Rocher holder. Was actually going to be a starfish . . what is happening to my life?
 

Just look at how pretty the flowers around the house were before I left for three weeks away. It was another story by the time I got back.
 
Weather:
Mainly in the mid 20's but as low as 18°, a day of heavy rain, a bit of thunder and one or two very short lived showers
 
28.5.25:
26 of us made an early start for our twinning trip up to Normandy. We were few and the bus was big so I had a double seat to myself, either to look at the scenery or the series that I'd downloaded on my phone. I my defence, I have done this route many times
 

Had an overnight stop in the Ibis Styles in Saumur on the Loire. Hotel was excellent but the meal in the restaurant next door was awful. The deal was 3 courses with a glass of either red or rosé and they were true to their word; bottles appeared on the table with a full sized bottle half filled. How mean is that?

29.5.25: Public Holiday for the Ascension

 
 
 It was a chilly start to the day but the excellent breakfast had set us up well. We chugged along the Loire for an hour giving us a view of the town from the river and then had just enough time to whizz into the Company's gift shop before we set off for another visit. Gave the shop it a miss in favour of  having a quick look around what seems to be a prosperous town.
 

Moved on to Pierre et Lumière at Sainte-Hilaire-Saint-Florian. Fabulous sculptures carved into the rock face from the Tuffeau stone. Monumental.

 Lunch came next at Les Caves de Marson in a nearby village. Large, pretty garden with the drinkng areas in the caves. Ate (without being counted) the speciality "fouées", small pitta-like breads that are wood oven baked and like pitta can be stuffed or otherwise. Ours featured rillettes.

Then it was back in the bus for the drive to Bretteville in time for an apéro. Agnès was fine but as usual juggling a load of balls in the air. Luckily, Bruno & Christine were doing dinner. ( Took them Vincens chocolate bars rum for Bruno, cherry for Christine). They were hosting Antonio and Sylvie, a very lively pair!

30.5.25:
 
Bliss! A free moning to relax and catch up.  Our hosts stayed local with a visit to La Ferme de Billy, dating from.1651, for an excellent brunch and a visit through the orchards to their production centre, a tasting and visit to the shop.

After the official gift giving, the evening Catalan meal was down to us; mostly prepared by José it comprised of sangria, wild boar pâté, black pudding and haricot beans, manchego +, bunyettes and cherries; washed down with wine, fizz all served by us. Not my idea of a "showcase" Catalan meal but who is a foreigner to offer an opinion. Luckily, we didn't have to provide the music as well. Gosh, for once I was in the mood for dancing as the song goes; Agnès, too. The musicians were forced to pack up around us.

31.5.25:


An early start for the "Longest Day" of the trip. Started with Omaha Beach at Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, one of the American landing sites along with Utah. Nice and quiet before the crowds arrived. The site, due to its rugged topography, was highly defensible. Inevitably the vast expanse of sea, respectful visitors and all the monuments bring silence and a sense of reverence. 

«Les Braves» was as created by Anilore Banon to serve as a tribute to the "sons, husbands, and fathers" who sacrificed their lives for freedom. It stands 9 meters high, 15 meters wide, weighs 15 tonnes and consists of three elements:
* Wings of Hope: Symbolizes inspiration and the spirit of the soldiers 
* Rise, Freedom!: Represents the fight against tyranny
* Wings of Fraternity: Emphasises brotherhood and responsibility towards others as well as ourselves

"The Signal Monument" inscribed in French and in English reads, reads, “The Allied Forces landing on this shore which they call Omaha Beach liberate Europe – June 6 1944”.

The "Charles Shay Memorial" (no photo) Needs a special mention as he died in Bretteville, where he'd settled in his latter years aged 100. A member of the Penobscot Indian Nation, 19-year old Private Shay (Mohsskwehsosis, "Little Muskrat") was a combat medic from Indian Island, Maine. Soon after dawn, he came ashore near here as a member of an assault platoon. Repeatedly plunging into the treacherous sea, he carried critically wounded comrades to safety under heavy fire. For his unselfish heroism on this beach, he was awarded the Silver Star and he continued to save the wounded until the war ended. About 175 American Indians invaded Omaha Beach. Some were medics, others fought as seamen, scouts, snipers, radio operators, machine-gunners, artillery gunners, combat engineers or forward observers.

From here we moved farther along  the coast to the Pointe Du Hoc overlooking Omaha Beach. Led by Lieutenant Colonel James E. Rudder, the Second Ranger Battalion of Army Rangers was tasked with capturing German artillery at Pointe Du Hoc to ensure the safety of the troops landing on the beaches below. During the American assault of Omaha and Utah Beaches, these U.S. Army Rangers scaled the 100-foot cliffs and seized the German artillery pieces that could have fired on the American landing troops at Omaha and Utah beaches. At a high cost of life, they successfully fought against determined German counterattacks.


And so to lunch . . . before moving on for more history at the Colleville American Cemetery. 

Standing on top of the bluffs overlooking Omaha Beach at Colleville-sur-Mer. it extending to over 170 acres.

§ 9,387 burials and 1,557 names of those missing in action on the Wall of the Missing. There will have been other fallen soldiers whose bodies were repatriated to the U.S.

§ 9,238 crosses and 149 Star of David headstones 

§ There are graves of 304 unknown soldiers - marked with the inscription ’Here rests in honored glory a comrade in arms known but to God’

§ Three Medal of Honor recipients lie here

§ 45 sets of brothers are buried here including two sons of President Roosevelt - Theodore Roosevelt Jr (died July 1944) and Quentin Roosevelt (killed in WW1 and reburied next to his brother in 1955)

§ Brothers Preston and Robert Niland, the inspiration for the movie Saving Private Ryan, are buried next to each other too

§ The 22 foot statue is called the Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves 

§ The chapel ceiling contains 500,000 tiles in its mosaic (photo)

 


The professional guide we had, had given up a days work to escort us and share his wealth of knowledge. As many of his clients are anglophones from time to time a bit of English slipped into his commentaries.

Tonight we were waited upon by our hosts. Norman hospitality means copious meals and drink in abundance so some of us were beginning to flag. though flag we could not as we listened, some of us with more enthusiasm, than others to a piper without a drop of Scot's blood in his veins!

Weather: After a chilly morning in Saumur (16°) it was warmer (24°) at 19h; Next couple of days were in the mid 20's with high, white cloud  

Wednesday, 30 April 2025

Already April!

April 2025:

Well, if anyone can tell me where February and March have gone to, please let me know. Can't think of any convincing reason that despite all my good intentions in January, Chitchat has been neglected yet again. In the meantime, the clocks have changed, the swallows whirl around, the days are getting longer so we can surely say "Spring has sprung." 

1.4.25:

April Fool happens here, too with kids pinning paper fish to people's backs. In our street they are pinned to our doors. My April Fool had nothing to do with fish but time. Lingered in bed until I realised that the only clock I'd not changed was the one in my bedroom. Put a scoot on to be ready for JJ to drive Henri to Argelès for an appointment.

                         
Went on to Collioure for a lunch and a walk. 

2.4.25:

Went around to Michel's to meet and have lunch with Walter (Canadian) and his wife Prae (Thai) who are here on holiday. I was on apéros. Michel made the most delicious chocolate cake, a piece of which came home with me! Scrummy!

3.4.25:

A day out in Figueres started in the Divinio, wandered around the market, had a apéro at the café from where we usually send Walter a photo. Then it was on to 9Suprem for lunch. 

4.4.25:

My first vernissage for this year; even if I had space on the walls, there was nothing that tempted me. 

 

Didn't linger over the apéritif as there were 5 of us going off over the border for a cheap and cheerful bite to eat in the village social centre.

6.4.25: An Experience with a Giant Cheese!

 



                Soooo good!



          

           Nothing more to say.

 

 

 

 

Easter: A Bunny, some Chocolate but no Bonnets.

                                         Life happens, Chocolate helps! 

Happy Easter, All

 

So simple but I defy you not smile back as this bunny that could be seen on Bute (in Scotland for those of you who are unlucky enough not to have visited). Thanks, Liz, for sending it. Don't know about you bring I can't bring myself to say "thanks for sharing" which is up there with "thanks for reaching out"!

My Easter started on Thursday with a "wee" apéro chez moi for Jacques, Suzette et JJ. Friday there was coffee in the morning with Linde and an apéro at the bar with her and Françoise in the evening. Good Friday here is not a public holiday, however, in Perpignan, Arles sur Tech and Collioure, the centuries old tradition of the Sanch Procession takes place. Black robed "penitents" in pointy hats walk in silence. Too spooky with shades of the K.K.K. for me so I've never been. 

Saturday there was lunch over at Trevor's. Roast lamb, of course; lots of laughs of course and full glass to be sure. Much to my amazement , later on I managed to make a simnel cake (only the second time ever) to take to Michèle & Henri's. Shame one of the flowers is a bit askew. Traditionally made for either Mothering Sunday or Easter, with the 11 marzipan balls representing the apostles minus Judas, I don't think you see them often nowadays. Probably the majority of folk won't even know what it is.

Apparently, the Easter Sunday congregation was bigger than usual as the café was busier than usual. Didn't succumb to a glass of wine in order to enjoy the champagne the was sure to be on offer before lunch. Yes, my confidence was well founded! 

Easter Monday was low key. Walked over to Ann & Terry's for coffee and cake, enjoying views of Canigou on the way. Gave the communal Omelette Pascale  a miss in favour of taking it easy at home.

21.4.25:

 Jasmine chez  perfumes the air chez moi and walking around you cal also catch the scent of mock orange. La vie est belle, n'est-ce pas? 

23.4.25:

 Whether you're in England or Catalunya, "Happy St George's/Sant Jordi's Day. Not forgetting "Happy birthday, Will Shakespeare", which I now know from my friend Bernadette, is his 461st.  Here, a red rose is traditionally given to a loved one and since the 1920s a book is offered on 23rd April, World Book Day. Sadly, neither one nor the other has come my way. Neither did a knight in shining armour come galloping across the village square. Maybe he' ll arrive on Sunday morning when books and roses will be available on la Place de la République. 

24.4.25:

Michel and I went on our usual trip to Figueres where we followed our usual routine of coffee on the terrace of the "Centric", whizzed around the produce market and paused at the café/bar for a beer and a white wine (4€50 for both!). Simple pleasures made even nicer with blue sky and sunshine. The guy in the background of this selfie was nothing to do with us. 

25.4.25:

Fish n Chips at a vineyard run by a Brit and a Kiwi. 

26.4.24:

 
Braved the rain to go for coffee with Henri & Michèle, their daughter and s-in law and let me tell you, it was well worth the effort. A beret wearing Basque all male voice choir sang inside  the crowded café and then outside taking shelter
from the heavy rain under a parasol. Spine tingling, to say the least.
 
Spine didn't tingle this evening but hopefully palates were tickled by the apéritif dinatoire that I gave my guests. 
 
27.4.25:

After coffee in the village with JJ, we all came together again for lunch in Collioure. The sun was back so a walk by the sea was called for before returning and going straight to a concert in the village hall. Thankfully only just over an hour long as I was feeling sleepy; too much red wine or maybe it was the fancy banyuls sangria, methinks.
 
29.4.25:
Poor old Michel and his Thai visitors were in Barcelona yesterday and what a time they had trying to get back to their accommodation 40km out. Luckily they made an early decision not to hang around hoping for the best and managed to get a taxi. Others had a pretty miserable time with nowhere to sleep or stuck on a train in the middle of nowhere. Needless to say, even though the electricity has been restored, there's a lot of uncertainty. Michel didn't know whether Prae & Walter will be able to fly back to Bangkok
 
What has my life come to?
 

Last night a small knitting group that occupied its members hands with a glass of wine rather than needles and today this was my "one I made earlier" effort at an over 65s group! Amazing what you can do with a a dishcloth and a bit of dental floss but I didn't fancy the alternative of burning a design into a small piece of wood!!! Luckily there's a different focus each week. In the meantime, I'll try and up my street cred.
 
30.4.25: All is not lost!
 
Took the bus to Perpignan with Nicole which started with coffee on the rooftop café of the city's only department store. Lunch and some shopping, while enjoying walking around and admiring some street art in the sunshine; 
 

a welcome change from the empty shops that figure here as much as they do in so many other towns.
The day and thus the month finished upbeat with an apéro chez Michel. 
 
April's Notes of Nature:
 Chez Moi
 
 Round & About
Weather:
Daytime temperature:  24°H, 16°L
Nighttime temperature: 15°H, 7°L
Changeable but with little rain