Countdown

This evening we were invited to the neighbours’, Fred and Marion along with others of their family and another couple of friends. We were 12 adults and a bunch of kids who ate pizza and played games while we partied below. Our hosts live in a converted factory with space on the ground floor
complete with strobe lighting and smoke machine. Everyone contributed to the meal. There was foie gras and champagne for the apéro, then a roulade starter followed by beef cooked by Frank in a salt crust. Much to Christian’s surprise, there wasn’t any cheese and after the excesses of the last few days, it was good to have a dessert of just clementines.

A Bit of Culture

Today we decided to head out for a bit of culture, going in search of the Jacquemart Museum where there was the private collect of Pre-Raphelite paintings owned by the Mexican,  Simon  Péres,  on view. The building itself was  superb and the collection well woth seeing. You can see more about it on http://www.musee-jacquemart-andre.com/fr/home     We then treated ourselves to lunch in a pleasant restaurant nearby which wasn’t cheat at 27€ each for two courses but what’s money for, if not to spend?

Lunch over, we walked to the Champs Élysées and joined the post Christmas throngs oggling at the racing cars in the Mercedes shop and snapping photos of the Arc de Triomphe.

Almost all the Family

Not wanting to do battle with the hordes on the metro and to trail around Paris in the cold,  we had a relaxing day indoors. Feeding everyone at lunch time was a major operating but Frank and Stéphanie got it all together without any stress …… I must learn the secret. At the end of the afternoon, the Normans waved goodbye and headed home, leaving us all to catch our breath.
(The only one missing from the photo is Jean who fled kicking and screaming!)

Lots of Bling

Another grey start to the day but we ventured forth to have a walk around the market and a coffee stop at the “Pause Café”. There was no lingering over lunch as the 8 of us were to meet up with the Valérie et al at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. They’d been in the queue for 45 mins already and were nowhere near the front so, a group decision was taken to take a trip on a “bateau mouche”. Even though it was chilly, we opted to stay outside as it gave the best photo opportunities. By the time that the trip was over, night was falling and by the time we’d climbed up to the Trocadéro, the tower was lit up in all its splendor.
Christophe et al arrived at the house a little after us so there were 18 to celebrate Emma’s birthday with an obligatory aperitif or two followed by a dinner of lasagne.  I have to say that it was good to be able to escape to our little haven of peace across the courtyard while the others continued late into the night!
 

Clowning Around

Walked up to the market which needless to say was smaller than usual. Stopped for a coffee before wandering back for lunch. While the kids were upstairs playing and Frank, Stéphanie and Christian had a siesta, I made the most of the peace and quiet to watch Downton Abbey. From the sublime to the ridiculous we went into town to see the show that the kids had given us for Christmas. First of all we met up with Jacques for a drink before he goes off to cover the"Dakar" rally  which despite its name starts in Argentina and not Africa. We came away with the latest book that he and Yaneth have edited about Women's sport in 2013. There's no way to explain the "Family Sempianyki", they're a disfunctinal family, style Adams/Simpsons where anything goes.  You just need to Watch this clip http://www.francetvinfo.fr/cirque-clowns-russes-dans-la-famille-semianyki_457648.html 
We didn't think that we'd stay the course but to our surprise we did.we did. Not having eaten we tried to go to "Le Charentier" opposite but we were too late so we settled instead for a curry a few doors down from chez Frank. we were received with a smile and a warm welcome thus made our way to bed feeling happy with the world.

Feel Good Factors

A walk followed by a coffee has fast become our morning habitbut at least it gives the family a bit
of respite before we descend upon them. Lunch time today we all took the métro to the station Stalingrad which comes out opposite the Communist Party HQ, to go to a bar/restaurant where Léo used to work. He quickly slipped into role and looked after us and other clients extremely well. there was a very pleasant atmosphere, we ate well and were treated to dessert and a digéstif. Christian and I went for the Malian dish, beef maafé and weren't disappointed. Maafé is Wolof for dish and is made with a peanut sauce http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maafe#Recipes
On our return to the house there was time to catch up with "Midsommer Murders" before headingout for a soirée with Jean-Jacques and friends at his neice's wine bar and restaurant http://www.domainesdesophie.com/ a nice wee, unpretentious place where we ate well and drank the wine from her family's vineyard. http://www.berenas.com/
The evening was dedicated to Michelle and his nephew, Christophe who both died this year and I'm sure it did him (as it did us) good to be surrounded by the warmth of family and friends. 
 

Christmas en Famille

Awake at 5.30am to get ready to leave the house at 6.40am (17°, I kid you not) to go to the station for the TGV to Paris. First time ever. Read, dozed, gazed out of the window and in just over 5 hours we were there. Frank and Léo were waiting (9°) and in no time we were in the bosom of the family. After a distribution of presents 8 of us sat down to a traditional lunch:

·        Champagne and canapés

       Foie gras with spiced bread and chutney served with Gerwitztrammener

·      Turkey, stuffing, chestnuts, grapes, celery  purée and sweet potato purée served with a Châteauneuf du Pape

·      Cheese (St Nectaire, St Marcellin, fresh goats’ cheese with raisins and Compté) served with a Bordeaux

Chocolate yuletide log with raspberries.

We are in the fortunate position of having a neighbour’s house for the week while she is away so, there was nothing else to do afterwards than beat a retreat and have a wee rest.

To One and All!

Early Birds

24.12.13: Spent most of the day doing odds and ends before leaving tomorrow. The fridge is empty of fresh food, the washing and ironing done and bags packed. As we couldn’t have a late night, we opted for a quiet dinner tête à tête at the restaurant and an early night. The meal was excellent:

·         Apéritif: Verrine of puréed mussels with a butternut squash foam

·         Opéra of Foie Gras (Layers of spiced bread, foie gras, chopped nuts, foie gras and Banyuls jelly)

·         King Prawns with chorizo crumble, squid stuffed with white pudding and truffles, Scallops on a bed of veau tartare with orange sauce. (They were small portions but filling none the less!)

·         Mont d’Or cheese

·         Chocolate gateau

·         Coffee

And we were in bed and asleep by 9.45pm 

Live for Today, Tomorrow will be too Late

Christian was at the Mairie to do a few last minute bits and pieces while I delivered the last association newsletter of 2013. In the afternoon we went over to see Josette who is in a care home but she dismissed us after about 45 minutes as she wanted to go back to watching the film with her pal. Oh dear! Things have changed. She was never one for the tv before and is mentally a shadow of her former self. Doesn’t bear thinking about.

Cheers!

We had anticipated a quiet time in but as we all know, the best laid plans ….
Jacques telephoned early evening to say that his son and his girlfriend had arrived and they had some fizz to share. Two bottles later, there was a “pot au feu” to share as well. Well, it is the season of good will, isn’t it?

 

Road to Freedom

Wrapped up well as despite blus skies, there was a chill in the air and we were heading off into the mountains for the inauguration of a panel to mark one of eleven “Freedom Paths” in the area. In January 1939, Spanish refugees came north to flee Franco and then later the same year freedom fighters, allied airmen, Jews, communists and other such “undesirables” so deemed by Hitler started to leave France in the other direction. The ceremony and wreath laying was done with dignity and the turn out was surpringly good for being 10km up a very windy road at 9.30am, Of course, there was a snack afterwards.
All was not over though; we did an action replay in our local market town which was also the start of an escape route. A much bigger place but the ceremony was lack luster in comparison with people complaining that the passing traffic detracted from the gravity of the affair.
Christian came up trumps though … I’d remarked that the historian had spoken during his speech about “les hommes” (men) who had crossed the border and then later “même les enfants” (even children) so he went over to him and pointed out that women had made the same journey. The historian tried to make out that he’d used the masculine in its generic sense which was when I came in with “meme les enfants”! He actually took it better than one would expect so maybe next time ….
Had a quick apéro at the Mairie before going home for lunch.
In the evening, after a short presentation there was a book signing at the museum. The book was about the genealogy and history of a local family and had taken over 10 years to research and write. We bought a copy, had an aperitif and hot footed it home to prepare for Maggie, Nick and Lizzie who were coming for drinks and nibbles. We had a lovely bottle of red wine (can’t remember who gave it to us) at one point and we were all agreed that it was just delicious, so smooth. It’s called “Roc du Gouvernor” made  at the Arnaud Villeneuve vineyard so, if you see it, go for it; it certainly won’t break the bank.

Better Safe than ....

Having described our meal of kedgeree at the Mairie, Jean-Mairie, who heads up finance, said that he liked the sound of it so we invited him, his partner Brigette and Jean-Jacques around this evening to try it out. Jean-Marie said he would bring a seafood platter as a starter. I wasn’t 100% convinced that he would so I made a curried parsnip soup just in case. What a good job that I did as he arrived with a rather splendid floral composition of lilies and orchids but no starter. There was no sign of Brigette either as she is a district nurse and had patients to see. Our guests finally left after 2am and we fell into bed exhausted.

 

Run Up to Christmas

The last few days have been relatively quiet.
Tuesday we spent 3 hours at our friend’s hairdressing salon (don’t ask!), stopped for a cuppa on our way home at Juste and Joséphine’s and then while Christian went for his weekly meeting at the Mairie, I prepared supper for us and Jean-Jacques.
Wednesday it was the Mairie Christmas aperitif. Presents for the employees’ children, past and present employees and councilors. A nice wee selection of goodies came our way.
Today we had lunch at the restaurant and didn’t do anything else out of the ordinary.

Spirit of Christmas

Middle of December and we were in need of sunglasses. The village Christmas market took place in front of the Mairie in glorious sun shine and itt was even too hot to wear a Santa hat. As usual, the association sold mulled wine to help swell its coffers and as usual it was Christian and myself who made it. So, it was an early start for a Sunday morning coming down to the smell of Christmassy spices in the kitchen. It seems that our efforts  were appreciated as all that we'd made was sold. For the first time in 7 years, we didn't do the whole day. We finished at 1pm and went to the bar for lunch with the DJ, Father Christmas and his daughter, the Mayor and his wife and Carmen.
This evening there was a Christmas concert in the Church with carols in French, English, Italian, Catalan and Spanish, followed by an apéritif. Only 10 days to go!

Question Time

In preparation for the forthcoming elections in March, Maggie held a meeting at her house so that Anglophones from the village could put their comments and questions to André and others who will be standing with him. Christian was there “officially” and I went along to help serve the coffee. Two hours later at midday, we had to break up the meeting as some of us had other engagements. We were invited to Michel and Marguerite’s to sample a bottle of wine they’d bought and were 30 minutes late but no worries, they weren’t put out about it.
Tonight we made up a quiz team with Jean-Jacques at the restaurant and what do you know? We won AGAIN!!

Eat, Eat and Eat Again!

Until today, this week has been fairly quiet apart from some eating and drinking.
Tuesday: Tea at Michel's
Wednesday: Lunch at the resto for Christian (a Mairie thing) while I had a bowl of soup ... let's hear it ..... ahhhhhh! I made up for it in the evening though with the "Apérobio" which included far too much wine while Christian and Jean-Jacques had an omelette at our place.
Thursday: Back to the restaurant for lunch ... well, it is Thursday and old habits die hard.
Now all that was just a warm up for the main event as today was the OAPs' lunch, the highlight of the village social calendar. On the menu:

• Apéritif (and my goodness, you had to be fleet of foot and sharp of elbow to get to the pringles before they disappeared)
• Foie Gras (and it was a substantial slice that you left deep teeth marks in)
• Fillet of Sole Tropical with Scallops à la Normande
• Steak with Madeira Sauce and Vegetables
• Sorbet
• Cheese Platter
• Gâteau with a Sweet Wine Sauce

and yes, even though we danced a bit, we went home full to bursting!

Heart of the Village

This Christmas's theme for our street is hearts decorated with what ever  Christmas brings to mind for each household. Cut and glued like a five year old and pinned our heart on the front door for passersby to see.

Come and Get It!

Lingered a while under the duvet this morning and then turned my thoughts to preparing lunch of duck breast with sundried tomato and mushroom orzo. In between chopping, cutting and tasting, I phoned Mum to catch up on her news. Not much happening her end unless you count going to church and shopping. I was busy telling her that we were having a quite day at home when Christian's phone rang. It was Nany, the Mayor's wife inviting us for lunch. Choucroute ( a dish from Alsace) was on the menu and Henri and Michèle were there too. If you want to know what it is and how to make it, click the link. http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/recipes/choucroute-alsacienne-548050.html or if you live in France you could just buy it from the deli counter at the supermarket!

Fund Raising

30 hours in the first weekend in December are designated as the prime time to raise funds for the Téléthon but as you'll know if you have been following this blog, that the village has already held a number of events. Yesterday afternoon children became the focus with sweets and the release of balloons; this evening it was the turn of young people with a zumba and dance display followed by a disco. We went to watch the balloons and have a drink but gave the disco a wide body swerve. Yes, I know, you veterans of "Chitchat" will know that it was the same last year and the year before that and before that .... Came home, lit the fire and prepared an apéritif dinatoire for Jean-Jacques who stayed until 12.45am

After a low key time yesterday, today was full on starting with a hunter's breakfast (bread, cheese,

charcuterie, coffee and red wine) in the village hall. Christian got stuck in while Maggie and I set up our accessory stall. We had two young women, Xavia and Lou, who offered there help and they were just great, going around the hall "encouraging" people to buy tickets for the bottle stall. Managed to get an hour for lunch - a plate of spaghetti carbonara for me and skate wing for Christian at the bar. The hall was packed in the afternoon for the British tearoom and the draw of the raffle which had 50 prizes. The President stopped by to drink tea , chat and congratulate us when we told her that we'd made 492.75€. She had disappeared before the end so it was the foot soldiers who cleared up, packed up and wearily trudged home for a wee pick me up.
ps. The village raised about 13,500€, not bad, eh?

The Long Walk is Over

The not-unexpected news that Nelson Mandela had died came. What a man! It brought back lots of memories of our time in Glasgow in the 80's and 90's .... boycotting South African products, protests, the renaming St George's Place to Nelson Mandela Place much to the annoyance of the South African Consulate which was housed there and of course, dancing and singing to  "Free Nelson Mandela" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgcTvoWjZJU and of course

All in a Good Cause

1.12.13:
Piled on the kgs today to help raise money for the Téléthon. About 120 of us sat down to lunch in the

village hall. An ollada was on the menu, a Catalan dish made from all the bits of a pig that you wouldn't normally eat. It's very tasty but I stuck to the white beans, veg and sauce. Jany, right recited a couple of poems and there was dancing. Oh dear, not quite a tea dance but with the madison in the repetoire, it wasn't far from it. On our way home, we called in to  take a cuppa with Jean-Jacques but resisted the temptation to linger for an apéritif.

2.12.13:
This morning went around to Geneviève's with Nick to help her get to grips with the membership database and in the afternoon I updated the website and deivered the latest bulletin. So much for withdrawing from the association! This evening went with Christian for his monthly surgery in the mountains, armed with a blanket and hot water bottle ..... I kid you not! An old building that only gets opened once a month, I needed to be prepared and glad I was too. Christian is made of sterner stuff , shunning all offers of a wee heat! After a couple of hours without a living soul coming through the doors, we went for something to eat at the restaurant where we sat next to the heater and savoured a delicious mushroom and cheese omelette.

3.12.13:
The weather is warming up again. Beautiful blue skies and bright sunshine. While Christian took a quick trip into Perpignan, I went around to Maggie's to help sort and price the accessories that had been donated for our stall at the Téléthon. This photo was taken from the top of her drive .... is it any wonder that I refused all offers of a lift home.

4.12.13:
Today we went our separate ways; me for lunch with Rowena in her hide - away at the back of beyond and Christian for lunch with Jean-Jacques at "The Rectoria". The weather was just glorious with 18° of warm sunshine. and I'm glad to say that Rowena is mobile once again. We parted with good intentions to try and meet up more regularly.

5.12.13:

Put the pinny on and headed up to the hunters' place to help prepare the vegetables for a wild boar stew that will be sold in aid of the Téléthon. Onions, garlic and carrots to peel by the kilo. You might think that this was the short straw but we had a log fire unlike those in the "abbatoir" part of the building who were cutting up the meat, so there were no complaints. Of course, it's always fun when a group of women get together working around a table. 116kg of finished stew gives you an idea of the task we tackled.
As recompense, Christian who had been at the Mairie all morning, whisked me off to the restaurant for lunch.

Sad News

A Friday night out with friends, a pint and some music who could have predicted what next. A police helicopter crashed last night onto the Clutha bar in Glasgow.It wasn't one of our regular pubs as we prefered the Vicky bar next door but it took us back to our time there and thoughts of our friends who are still there. All spoke of the Glaswegians on site who didn't hesitate to help with the rescue before the services arrived. Yes, it has its fair share of urban problems but none can deny that Glasgow is a city with a heart and a spirit like no other.
Once again, a reminder to make the most of life because you never know ....... 9 people died this night.

5 Days' Worth

A cold, windy but sunny week so there was no great enthusiasm to leave the house. However,
we did venture into Perpignan to visit Nany in hospital who's recovering well after the operation on her back. Christian of course has been to the Mairie every morning and me to the language exchange
and Spanish. Funwise Jean-Jacques came for supper on Wednesday and we had lunch at the restaurant on Thursday. The meal was excellent and we're well pleased that they are open again after two weeks holiday.
This morning Christian had an official "do" with the inauguration of a new sewage works which serves this village and the neighbouring one. The President of the Département was there as it's contributed a chunk of finance. The weather was cold and the speaches were outside. Christian was able to escape some of them as André, the Maire asked him to pick up his granddaughter as oviously he couldn't get away. Imagine Christian's surprise when he returned to find the officials still droning on! Still, there was an apéritif in the warm afterwards so all was not lost.
At long last we finally managed to sped some time with Juste and Joséphine who came around this evening for something to eat.
Apéro: Gin and tonic, salami, cornichons et cherry tomatoes; quiche squares; beetroot, cumin and dill verrines garnished with toasted pinenuts
Thai prawn curry, chickpea and cauliflower curry, rice, lime pickle and coriander raita
Cheese: Manchego, coulomiers
Rich fruit slice with maple syrup cream
We managed to avoid contentious political subjects and had a pleasant evening beside a roaring fire so here too, all is not lost.

Multicultural Day

Another windy day but it was a degree or two warmer than it has been. Started off with a coffee in the bar where my rather splendid bright red coat brought forth comments about Mother Christmas, just as it did last year. Have to say I was glad of it when we went off to a nearby town for the inauguration of a new fountain dedicated to the Sardane of Peace (a Picasso sketch donated by the artist to Communist Party who then donated it to the museum). It's a really beautiful work of art but you'll have to wait for a better photo until I can get a clearer view of it. Had a quick glass of wine with Henri and Michèle before going on to watch a short film about the realisation of the fountain and an apéritif at the Mairie for invited guests. We were the sole representatives of the village .... don't we take our civic responsibilites seriously?
Too late to cook lunch at home so we went to the bar for an omelette, yeah, ok, chips as well.
There was only time for Christian to have a 30 minute nap before we had to set off for an "English" Christmas market in another village. Carols, mulled wine and mince pies. Didn't buy anything but

there again we went to meet Pauline who we hadn't seen for ages not to shop. Lunch in the New Year is on the cards.
Next stop was a competition to find the best new sardane composition. There were 5 (out of 15) on the short list and there was a popular vote and a jury vote. Christian and I voted for the winner of the popular vote which came 2nd with the jury. The competition was then followed by a concert. Neither of us are great sardane fans so we were surprised that we got to the end without feeling bored. The day finished with an apéritif at Henri and Michèle's that for once didn't turn into a meal.

Autumn Bounty

There were less people in the market this morning and there were only a few die-hard smokers on the terraces, presumably due to the icy cold winds . We too, headed indoors for our coffee and catch up with Henri and Michèle. We'd already decided that we were going over to Maçanet for lunch where one of the restaurants was said to have an excellent autumn menu featuring mushrooms and chestnuts. The two of them jumped at our suggestion that they join us and we weren't disappointed with what arrived on our plates.
Canapés: Verrine of mushroom soup, chestnut in sweet wine syrup on a spoon and mushroom croquette
Starter: Warm mushroom salad, foie gras, toast, chestnut purée and quince Jelly
Mains: Duck breast with prunes and chestnuts in a rich wine sauce for 3 of us, veal steak for Henri
Dessert: Chocolate and chestnut "sin" (that's what the menu said) with dark chocolate sauce and white chocolate ice cream for 3 of us and chestnut ice cream with walnuts and ratafia for Christian
Petits Fours. All for 27€90. It would have been 2€ less if we'd gone in the week but we certainly had no regrets; it was delicious and worth every last cent.
Stopped off to buy cava and introduce Henri and Michèle to the cave in Capmany. They enjoyed the tour of the tap museum and bought two cartons of the red wine that we'd had at lunch time. Both couples came away with a freebie bottle of cava and white wine each.
We were back to ours in time for a cuppa and believe it or not, Christian still managed to have some bread and cheese later on!

Where were you when .....?

50 years ago JFK was assassinated and this question has become forever associated with the event. I remember being shocked but not where I was or what I was doing. Does that make me abnormal or just that day to day life for a schoolgirl wasn't very interesting at that time. Apart, of course for the music that is... Stones, Beatles etc. Now that was exciting. How appropriate, therefore that we cosied down and watched "The Boat that Rocks" this afternoon, a fun dvd about pirate radio and an antedote to the replays of JFK getting his head exploded.

Unlikely Dinner Companions

The weather gods must have been on our side yesterday as today, clouds are once more in evidence. It's  cold and windy so it looks as if we're in for the full 9 days of the Tramontane. Still, it didn't matter as all activity was of the indoor variety. Being Thursday, it was the language exchange and a drink at the bar as usual though this evening was more out of the ordinary. A paella in the hunters' premisis with the Police Municipal, some local gendarmes and fire officers . It was organised by Armand, the "Adjoint au Maire" responsible for security and the José, the "Premier Adjoint" who did the cooking, I suppose as a relationship building exercise. Christian and Jean-Jacques were invited because they were good blokes. We thought it would be an all male affair so it was a surprise for me to receive an invite as well. Violet, José's partner and a female gendarme were also there and it turned out to be a very civilised affair.

Guided Tour

Thank goodeness that bad weather doesn't last long here as we were able to go off with Nick and Lizzie under blue skies. The distant mountains have a thick covering of snow and look picturesque with the sun shining down on them. Headed first to Besalú, which they didn't know and had a walk around following an al fresco coffee. As the clock was ticking on, we couldn't give this medieval village the time it deserves. Along with Christian architecture, a fortified bridge and  stone arches, there are rare vestiges of Jewish baths. The Jewish community was expelled from the town in 1436 but now adays, its tourist savvy Council organises a dedicated festival every year to bring them back.
Anyway, enough of Besalú; we had to carry on to the market in Banyoles after driving in around the lake. It too, has an historic centre but not the charm of our first stop. Wandered , bought some fruit, veg and plants, then went in search of lunch.
Once again we went to the  "La Rectoria" and once again neither we nor they were disappointed.

Take a Kilo of Mince .....

18.11.13:

It's rained heavily all day so there was absolutely no question of me putting my nose outside. Christian, however went over to the Mairie in both the morning and afternoon. Then this evening while I watched tv, he went off with Jean-Jacques for a cookery workshop for dummies. organised by Nick. In theory he can now cook spag bol and other dishes that use mince as their base. Can't wait. Apparently, they had a good time as cooking, eating and discussing took 4 hours!

19.11.13:
Another morning spent helping Anne understand "Dropbox" and get to grips with the Association's "In Box" but she's feeling a little overwhelmed and her heart's not in it. The rain,  finally having stopped, meant that I was able to stretch my legs and clear my head on the walk home. Then for the rest of the day, I sorted out all the cds and feel pleased to see them in neat rows organised in genres.  Next it will be the drawer in the kitchen with bits of string and other "might-come-in-useful-one-day items" that will be tidied. Yeah, yeah I know, all pretty obsessive!
Oh yes, France managed to qualify for the World Cup and François Holland, the President was well pleased with the result speaking about a team that made  through even though people didn't believe in them. Easy to recognise a subtle parallel to  his governement which is being dogged by very poor ratings. He himself has the lowest rating of any President since 1945!

Send in the Clowns

16.11.13:

Weather's cooler and there were fewer people in the market. We stopped by to see an exhibition on the theme "sang et or" (colours Catalan) which includes a few of our friend Mireille's paintings. Then it was coffee followed by a glass of wine. Henri and Michèle persuaded us to go back to theirs for an apéritf and once again we ended up staying for lunch. Christian found himself in the kitchen cooking omelette and pasta. One day chez nous?
This evening there was a soirée musicale organised in aid of the Téléthon. We didn't win the raffle but the programme was varied and Colin sang "Send in the Clowns" at my suggestion. I  found myself holding my breathe all the way through.You too can enjoy it  here,   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1fVQGESUTo
So, the title of this post refers to the Steven Sondheim song and not the miserable showing of the French football team in the World Cup qualifiers. At the moment footballers rate lower than estate agents and all the other usual suspects in the unpopularity stakes  ... poor behaviour, inflated heads and the threat of strike action if they are not exempt from paying a higher tax rate on their earnings doesn't earn much sympathy grrrrrrrrrrrrrh!

17.11.13:

Finally, a good downpour with cloud hanging low in the village. In fact there is even an "alert orange" for this department and just when it was heaviest we decided to go to the bar for a coffee. Bah oui, not very bright. It wasn't outing just for a coffee though; we also went to leave a couple of books for a "livres libres"(book crossing) organised by someone in the village. As she had only sent an email to the Mairie on Thursday and didn't do any other publicity, we're probably the only ones who participated. Shame, as it's a great idea.
Jean-Jaques came for lunch at 12.15pm and left more than five hours later. Not that it seemed like it as there was plenty to talk about. Had a stir fry, not very Sunday lunch it's true but it was appreciated and there was not a thing left in the bottom of the wok. What'll we have tomorrow??

Saints Galore and a Drop of Wine

12.11.13:

Despite it being his feast day and despite going away for the night, (Saint) Christian worked at the Mairie all morning. Set off under sunny skies after lunch to drive north of Montpellier to the bed & breakfast that was our last year's Christmas gift from the kids. Nice wee place called l'Ostal de Pic St-Loup.  There was only one other couple,  puppeteers, staying over night. Dinner was creative and Rosa and Dominic were good company.

13.11.13:
The Pic Saint-Loup also gives its name to a much appreciated wine so, needless to say we went in search of the "Pech Tort" vineyard that Bertrand from the B & B had recommended.. From here we drove through the countryside, visiting the medieval villages of  St Jean de Cucucelles and St Martin de Londres on the way. Ended up in Bouzigues (known for its oyster production).and had lunch at No 39 overlooking the Bassin du Thau. Annoyingly, I didn't feel too good afterwards, sore throat and feeling tired.  Not to worry, it won't last.
Henri came down after his English lesson to wait for Michèle whose lesson was 1 hour later. You won't be surprised to know that the apéritif became supper, will you?

Duty Calls

A Public Holiday ; some folk no doubt had a long lie and others like us were out on parade. We marched up to the war mémorial for speeches and a wreath laying, then marched down to the village hall for refreshments. Next it was up to the other village for an action replay without the marching or brass band. The table for the apéritif at the restaurant was well laden and provided a wee reward for braving the biting wind. There were about 25 of us who stayed on for lunch and what would you know? The main course was duck!

Saintly Persuits

There was a sprinkling of snow on Canigou this mornig and although the sun was shining it's starting to feel colder therefore we wrapped up warm for our trip up into the mountains. today is the feast os Saint Martin, the patron saint of our twinned village. We gave the mass a miss and sat in the sun until it was time for the communal apéritif by which time Nany and André had arrived. Had lunch at the restaurant on the village square which turned sour when we had to pay 15€ for my starter of ham. Yes, it was Iberic ham and that's expensive but the ham I saw on the menu was  6€50 and no doubt serrano. still, I'd eaten it so we let it pass. Won't go back again, that's for sure.

Hairy People

Here we are into November and the weather is still warm and sunny. It's no hardship sitting out having a drink with friends and that's what hapened this morning at the market. No sooner than we'd arrived than we bumped into Gaby who we hadn't seen for ages, so off we went for a coffee. Then we were joined by Henri, then Michèle, then Chantal. Of course, a glass of rosé put in an appearance after which Henri suggested that we stay on for a bite to eat. It was hardly reasonable for any of us as we'd respective dinners to go to in the evening but we did anyway.
This evening the moustaches came out of their wrappings for a theme quiz at the restaurant .... mustaches in sport, cartoons, tv series, politics and on women. And what do you know? We won!!! And what did we eat? Duck!!!

Eat, Drink and be Frightened!

6.11.13:
My turn today, to get the pinny on and produce dinner for André, Nany, Michèle and Henri, who  came ostensibly to pin down a few détails about our trip to Scotland next year. I don't know why but I decided on "Kedgeree". I know, I know, it's esentially a breakfast dish but I thought it would be something different that they didn't know. Anyway, it went down well and there was enough left over for us for another meal. For starters, we had Delia's Fennel Stuffed Peppers http://www.deliaonline.com/recipes/type-of-dish/party-food/accompaniment/roasted-red-peppers-stuffed-with-fennel.html and for dessert, Banana Malteser Cake served with crème fraîche. http://www.bestrecipes.com.au/recipe/malteser-and-banana-cake-L6007.html

7.11.13:
Another day, another meal and the sun is still warm. After the language exchange, we joined Anne and Terry to put our feet under Nick and Lizzie's table. They did have an ulterior motive though. No such thing as a free lunch, eh?  Still no hardship was involved as all we had to do was settle on a date to take our hosts to Banyoles market which has been on the cards since summer. It was a long leisurely lunch with poor old Christian being outnumbered by Brits but he bore up well fortified by plenty to drink, delicious duck in orange sauce and a few cuddles.
8.11.13:
Back to Spanish for me after a three week gap and Paul's decided to try a new approach as he's finally realised that it's all been pitched at too high a level for us. That will be a relief.
Christian's feeling pretty tired at the moment and slept most of the afternoon. I think that we've been overdoing it a bit.
This evening there was a vernissage at the museum and as it was our neighbour and his brother who were showing, we were bound to go. There were sculptures carved into river stones and some rather scary paintings. I told the painter that I wouldn't want to wake up with one at the end of my bed and someone else more graphically said that she wouldn't be too keen to sleep with the painter if that was his outlook on life! The apéritif and mini jazz concert provided an uplifting end so we were able to go home to bed without fear of nightmares to come.

Atheists Welcome!

After all the beautiful weather we've been having, it was disappointing to wake and see rain as today we'd an outing with Jean and Françoise planned as a belated birthday gift. Undaunted we set forth to drive South and we rewarded by warm sunshine by the time we reached Figueres. Christian and Jean found a café while we went in search of false moustaches and shoes. You'll find out about the moustaches later in the week..
Of course, lunch was part of the plan though we didn't tell Jean the name of the restaurant because of its religous connotations. Still, we had faith that what the chef  of the "La Rectoria" would deliver would wash away any reticence. We weren't wrong.  It really is a top place to eat and at lunchtime during the week there's a menu, complete with wine for 16€. Françoise's G & T, on the other hand cost 10€ + vat! Anyway, it was her treat and it meant that there was more wine for us.
There was no Council meeting for Christian this evening which was a welcome change.
Rounded off the day with the "Soirée Guitares" at the bar though we didn't stay much longer than an hour .....  they're starting to become a bit same ol', same ol'.

Keeping Busy

2.1113:
Markets are just not about buying veg as those of you who hae visited our local one will know. There's sitting in the sun, drinking wine and bumping into friends as well. Today we also managed to organise two outings: a concert tomorrow and the quiz at the restaurant next week.  This afternoon, we went round to visit Maggie who's laid low with a heavy cold and tonight Jean-Jacques came and shared a pot of minestrone with us.

3.11.13:

No long Sunday morning lie-in for us as we attended a commemoration mass for the daughter-in-law of one of the Council members. She was only 43 and choked on, of all things, a piece of cheese. After that off we went to the bar for a coffee followed later on by a glass of rosé.
This evening's outing to the concert was just fabulous. "Accordézeam", five young(ish) musicians revisited various pièces of classical and film music. Their interprétations were all relly original. Imagine deconstructing the New World Symphony which is a construction of "American" musical themes and then putting it back together again with a myriad of musical influences in their traditional form. What's more it was fun to listen to and to watch the performers. You can find them on   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6rEhM4WsC4
We left walking on air with the New World still going around our heads and headed for the wine bar where we ate tapas, drank red wine and enjoyed more music from the group who were there also.

4.11.13:
A "Dropbox" (or as a friend who hates it, calls it  "drop dead box") morning and afternoon spent installing it for two friends. Intrigued? If you're not in the know, it's a file sharing/storage application which really is quite useful especially as you can read the documents offline. www.dropbox.com will tell you all about it better than I can.
Being the first Monday, Christian had his surgery while I went to visit Annette. then as usual we went to the local hostel for something to eat. A Monday night in November, so it was no surprise that we were the only ones in there. No duck this time; we both had omelette which was just the best ever ..... light, fluffy and stuffed with wild mushrooms and cheese. I can taste it yet!

Another Week Whizzes By

26.10.13:
Saturday came round again so it was off to the market as usual. Met up with Michelle and Henri who invited us for an apéro at their place. We were also invited to pick some olives off the tree in their garden, if we wanted but we didn't! Sitting out in the sun, (yes, it's still possible) the apéritif rolled into an impromptu lunch. What else was there to do afterwards but to go home and relax (read snooze for Christian).
27.10.13:

Christian had an early start today as he was helping with the refreshments during a long distance race. I wandered up to where he was working and then once all the runners had gone through, we all headed down to the bar for an apéritif.
28.10.13:
Christian's spent a good part of today setting up a blog for the élections.
29.10.13:
Lunch at Michel's. Made a lime meringue pie for dessert as our contribution.
30.10.13:
Lunch with Anne and this time there weren't any hiccups. Sadly, we haven't revised our opinion and the only way that we'll go back is if there's an invitation that we can't get out of.
31.10.13:

Weather is a little cooler but there was enough sunshine to eat out at the restaurant this lunch time. There was a vernissage at the Mairie this evening followed by an apéritif  then I dashed home to slap some icing on the carrot cake that I'd made and Christian went off to a meeting. The cake, by the way, was for a soup and roast chestnut street party with the neighbours. By 9.30pm, it started to get a bit chilly and people started to head home with some coming back to ours for a nightcap and some more chat.
1.11.13:
Today's a Public Holiday (All Saints) and apart from finally getting the blog up to date for the first time in two months, we're just being lazy.

Eat, Drink and be Merry

21.10.13:The first apéro was at lunch time; well, it wouldn't have been at breakfast,do I hear you say? Anyway, Dominique came around to see a small DIY job in the house at the right time so ...... Then, this evening Jean and Françoise phoned to say that they were coming over with oysters for Christian. Fortunately, I was able to russle up some nibbles that saw us through a very pleasant evening.

22.10.13:
Oh dear, I should check my mobile phone more frequently. We went off  to meet Anne, who helps me with Spanish and had invited us for lunch. The restaurant is a modern, characterless one on a commercial estate whiched is saved by a pretty view on one side. Anne, is normally on time so after 10 minutes watching  the hors d'œuvres buffet disappearing fast, I phoned her to find that she'd left a message on the mobile saying she was not well. There was nothing else to do but to stay and order. The buffet was disappointing (shame as I just love buffet starters) and the rest of the meal not very interesting.
23.10.13:
Lunch at the restaurant and then back again in the evening for an apérobio with "les anglaises" taken out on the terrace.
24.10.13:
This evening we were invited to Jeannine and André's for dinner, along with Michelle, Henri, Laura and David. Although you wouldn't know from the weather, that it's autumn, the menu gave it away.
Chestnut and pumkin soup, duck and potato pie, sweet chestnut purée and Berry dessert and cheese, of course. We didn't get anything decided about next year's trip to Scotland; even the dates are up in the air what with the municipal élections in March and the Europeans in May.
25.10.13:

Finally,  the last of the Association's stuff (the booze) was collected as it was needed for the apéritif after tonight's AGM.. How good it was to be able to just turn up. All went well and there was even an acknowledge of my contribution to the Association's success, which was nice. The meal afterwards which started with a far superior buffet than the last one that we'd had, was spent in the company of Michelle and Henri was a pleasant end to the evening.