The Early Bird Catches the Worm(s)

Up and out this morning at 9am to meet Françoise to go to Collioure. Fortunately found a parking space and didn't have to queue too long for the Little Train. http://www.petit-train-touristique.com/
It was a great wee trip up through the vines to the Fort St Elme where there was a photo stop and back down again through Port Vendres along the coast back to Collioure. Another day of fabulous views and Jill was particularly taken by a profusion of blue Morning Glory on two sides of the road.
A swim came next and this photo was taken afterwards behind the Château Royal on the way back to the car. As you can see, the wind was blowing which helped keep us a little cooler. Made a detour through the picturesque back streets to the car park without buying a thing.
Françoise then drove us up the narrow vertiginous road to the Cap Béar lighthouse and more spectacular views. Golly, it was hot. On the way back down to Port Vendres we picked up an English (from Middlesborough) hitch hiker who was escaping his friends who were drinking champagne on their yacht as he felt sea sick! Almost had his complete life story as an artist before we arrived in the town. Also learnt that his partner is a chocolate maker who sells in the market on a Saturday, so no doubt our paths will cross again. Well, I know they will as the Association has already talked about going to visit where it's made this autumn.
A sandwich lunch, a quick stop at Françoise's daughter's and a visit to the festival at Palau del Vidre which is known for glass making. http://www.palaudelvidre.com/http://www.palaudelvidre.com/
Lots of craft displays around the centre of the village and fascinating demonstrations. can you imagine having to work in this heat?
Home in time for a cuppa and to draw breath before going over to Yasmin and Reza's for an Iranian meal. Lovely subtle flavours and interesting conversations in English whilst sitting out on the verandah.
Weather:
32°, overcast start, sun and very hot

More Shoes on the Agenda, Al Fresco Dining on the Menu

Kathy took Jill, Dolores, her neighbour and myself to St Laurent up in the mountains for the "Fête des Espadrilles". A shuttle bus took us from field parking into the centre of the village and we were glad that we'd made an early start as we didn't have to stand around in the sun waiting our turn. I had hoped to find a colourful pair of espadrilles with wedges for myself but sadly my feet are too wide. So the plastic card stayed firmly in my purse. http://www.espadrille-catalane.com/creation-catalane-sneaker-french-shoes-espadrille/
I didn't find anything in the "Toiles de Soleil" factory shop which sells material and all kinds of obects made from this colourful fabric either. It's sold worldwide and is very expensive. http://www.toiles-du-soleil.com/en/ 
It was hot and very busy so we collected the car and went up to the golf course for an apéritif. Christian and I often came here to get away from it all. It specifically brought back memories of an overnight stay that we had here; fabulous views and calm. http://www.falgos.com/uk/articles-4/4-11-the-spa/
No rest this afternoon as there was food to prepare for this evening's guests (Jean, Françoise, Jacques, JJ, Lisa and Nancy) and pleased to say, all was ready for when they arrived. Much to my surprise, people came bearing birthday gifts. Hadn't realised that they knew! Of course we ate on the newly cleaned upstairs terrace. It was good to be reminded what a pleasant place it is, so hopefully I won't be quite so lazy about making an effort to carry things up. In any case, people lend a hand so I've been a bit feeble really.
Eventually, we went over to the bar to catch the last of the country and western concert. Then it was home to bed in readiness for an early start tomorrow.
Weather:
29°, hot and still

Dancing Queen

The last bit of work on the windows was done this morning and the boss was at the house to do the last bit of paperwork and collect the cheque even before his worker had arrived!
Jill and I went off to the market and started with a coffee with Henri and his son-in-law. We toddled around, chatted to folk here and there, went and had a look at the brunch possibility which looks promising as can be seen from the photo. Finished with another drink; this time at the Grand Café. Took the bus back and had a a quiet afternoon behind closed shutters as it was too hot to go out.
This evening we wandered down to the recreation ground to dance the night away. Yaneth, Nancy, Lisa, Jill and I were joined on the dance floor by a young woman; blonde, tall, slim, dressed all in black wearing the most amazing boots with enormous sprung wedges. Never seen anything like them. I'm sure she is a model!! What a great mover; I can't imagine why she'd join such a motley crew as us. Once our legs started to give out, Jill and I went back to the bar for a last cuppa.
Weather:
30°, sun

How Many sisters Does It tTake to Change a Light Bulb?

With 32° (90°, if you're still in Fahrenheit) forecast, we chickened out of going to Perpignan; much too hot. Instead we put a blind up, cogitated about my computer desk problem (won't bore you with details) and changed a light bulb which being halfway up the stairs and only just within arm's reach needed one to unscrew and one to make sure the other didn't fall down the stairs.
It's not all work when you come to me on holiday though; we went for a walk up to the cemetery where Christian's ashes were scattered, to show Jill the stone otter which is there in memory of him. The cicadas were chirping away, the wind was blowing through the cork trees and the otter was still there and smiling at us!
of course, we couldn't pass the bar on our way back home where we found Nancy, Jacques and Lisa.
Lunch at home, a bit of work on the blog and at the end of the afternoon, a walk along by the river.
This evening, 15 of us met at the other bar for a meal. Not as riotous as the last time but all seemed to enjoy it and said, "we should do other things". Kathy was up for a tutored wine tasting and said she'd investigate possibilities. At last, someone ready to do some organising! Sunday Brunch in Céret was also suggested but I'm not sure that the person concerned will do anything about it. Watch this space!
Several of us left the bar and went on to the other one where there was music. Good atmosphere, lots of people and therefore, lots of kisses. No complaints there, then.
Weather:
32°, sun, light wind

Surprise, Surprise!

We made such a good job of the small patio that today we tackled the bigger onr upstairs. A
quick shower and then back to the bar for a coffee. Another routine in the process of being established. This time there were fresh faces; Jacques, Yaneth and Lisa are in the village for a few days. Nancy, too, has her wee habits as she came by soon afterwards. The table was completed by JJ, so it was a a latish lunch in our respective homes for us all.
Went over to Maggie's towards the end of the afternoon for a swim and then in the evening Jacques walked with us up to Nicole S's for the evening in honour of the Scots who'd helped with the trip in April. Apéros on the terrace. Jill was much taken by the "pain surprise". Here's a recipe from Jamie's website if you're tempted to know what the "surprise" is http://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/member-recipes/recipe-detail/671/
Paella, cheese including a "Rambol", a new one on me, made from cow's cheese and decorated with walnuts and dessert followed. If you see the cheese on your travels, give it a go; mmmm a great mix of tastes and textures. The walk home was just what we needed to make up for having indulged in too many lovely, tempting tastes.
Weather:
32°, hot, sunny, a bit less wind

Work, Rest and Play

Little Sis's holiday is off to a good start; dustbins last night and helping clean the small patio this morning. There was no wind to blow the leaves and dust back again, so we had to get on with it. Looked so much better. Afterwards we went for a stroll around the village; so as the photo shows you, Jill isn't exploited all the time. Ended up back at the bar for a coffee with Nancy and plenty of chat.
Lunch at home and then a bit of pottering before going over to Christian's room to see the exhibition. Strolled a bit more afterwards and met Michel and Dolores. Michel's a keen gardener villand he invited us to come along and look around. We came away with a couple of courgettes, an aubergine, a pepper and some sprigs of lavender. Came back via the allotment in which I have a 1/5th share and helped ourselves to some of the apples that were growing in abundance.
Spent the evening quietly, watching "Pride", a bitter/sweet film that's well worth watching if you haven't already done so.
Weather:
28° sun, feeling cooler with the wind that rose in the afternoon

Arial Dustbins

Took the first bus into Céret for my monthly blood test and then I went over to try and sort out my tax as I've noticed that they're taking more than they should. Always something. Came back for, what else but a coffee at the bar with Nicole P.
With Thérèse in plaster because of a broken wrist, I had to set to after lunch and do a bit of cleaning ready for Little Sis's arrival from UK.
Nicole P was kind enough to pick her up. She's such a kind person; always ready to help. She'd her grandson with her who she'd just picked up from Perpignan and here she was having to go back again to the airport.
Jill's flight was on time though the descent had been pretty bumpy with the wind; it was lovely to see her and great to be able to spend a bit of time together. The three of us had a bite to eat at the bar but didn't linger for too long.
As it's been a couple of years since Jill was here, we had a quick walk around to get a feel of the place. She was quite taken by our underground rubbish bins and funnily enough, after about 10 minutes of being home we heard a clanging outside which I deduced was a collection. So, off we shot just in time to see the bin being winched back in place. It's quite an impressive operation. No expense spared, eh, to give Little Sis a good start to her holiday!
Weather:
28°, sun, some cloud and strong winds

Away to the Mountains

This is getting to be a habit: my trip with Nick to Le Boulou, that is. This time I was after 5m of anti-pigeon spikes but at over £25 for 1m50, I gave them a body swerve. Maybe, the internet will come up with something cheaper.. Came back in time for a coffee with Nicole P and then along came Nancy and then Anne.
Once again I was saved having to cook as I, David and Laura, Jim and Mags, Maud and Daniel were invited up into the mountains for lunch at Monique and Roland's. Lots of home grown fruit and veg on the menu, stunning views and entertainment from their twin grandsons.
On the way home, Maud and Daniel took me around to see the new house they are renovating. My goodness, they are pretty courageous given all there is to do; rather them than me.
Weather:
28°, sun

More Sadane

Seven women and Reza, Yasmin's husband, was the head count for this morning's coffee at the bar. She'd "brought" him along as she wanted him to see the sardane which was to be danced before lunch in the village. Apparently, they have a similar dance in Iran which was danced before the crack down.
Oh dear, there were very few people out to watch or dance in front of the Mairie. All the officienados can't have been a the festival.  Don't know what's going on. This weekend has been the major village fiesta but you'd never know from the lack of a festive air and such poor attendance. Chickens and eggs spring to mind.
Being a bit fed up with the same ol', same ol' menu at the bar, Nancy and I went to the other one and ate a refreshing salad in the beer garden. Otherwise, a quiet, lazy day at home.
Weather:
27° sun, cloud, rain and thunder at the end of the day.

Keeping Tradition Alive

My usual Sir Galahad's being away, I joined Yasmin and Nancy for a trip to the market though we did split up until it was time to meet for a drink. Almost immediately, I bumped into Hortense, so Radio Times already purchased, we retired to the café for a coffee and chinwag. And there I stayed until it was time to meet the others at this very place. Jean and Françoise and then Nany and André happened by and joined our table. We had a prime spot from which to watch the the sardane being danced by enthusiasts in the town for the annual festival. I also got to meet Frederick, who not only plays in one of the "cobla" (a group playing traditional catalan music on traditional instruments https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cobla) but is also a teacher from the conservatoire in Pepignan and an expert on the Catalan bagpipes. A useful contact for "Project Cornemuse".

It was quite late by the time we got back to the village so it was a short afternoon until it was time to costume up and dance our way down to the recreation ground behind our carnival float accompanied by waves, toots and shouts from passing cars. Those who drove by with po faces were seriously booed. Who cares if we were making fools of ourselves.
There didn't seem to be as many people as usual for the mussels and chips and outdoor disco so Nicole P and I stopped only to whet our whistles. Went back up to the bar where we met Nancy on her way down who did a "u" turn and joined us for a coffee. Jacques first port of call after three weeks away was the bar to watch the Women's European Cup (football). He joined us until we all went home in separate directions.
Weather:
28°, sun

Everything comes to she who waits!

21.7.17: Invitations like Bananas come in Bunches

This evening I was invited to dinner, 2 apéritif dinatoires and Sylvie's 50th birthday party which was the invitation that I had accepted ages ago. Sylvie, who has a second home here, is French, married to a German and lives in Switzerland. Around the table were French, Catalans, Germans a Swiss and a Brit (me).
I had a wee titter to myself as also invited were the now retired village school headmaster and his wife. For several years after the 2008 elections she'd cut us dead because Christian stood on André's list, rather than her husband's. I followed my usual strategy of always making a point of saying "hello/bonjour" to anyone who tries to snub me. My tenacity paid off and this evening we kissed, chatted and laughed together like old pals.
Ate some traditional Catalan starters, my second paella of the season and some lovely farm produced cheese. At this point we took a break to go and watch the fireworks that had been postponed from last week then came back and had some serious chocolate cake (I'm drooling just thinking of it!) and fougasse, a traditional yeast dough base covered with confectioner's custard, fruit, orange blossom water and pine nuts. Goes without saying that the GP's cut - down - on - sugar advice went out of the window with nary a second thought!
Weather:
29°, sun, cloud and a light shower late afternoon

20.7.17: Crocodile in the Sky

Was able to escape from the Language Exchange as Nono and Evelyn phoned to say that their camper van was packed up and ready to roll. We met at the bar for a last coffee and said our goodbyes. Jean and Françoise happened by too so I was still sitting there when the exchange folk arrived for their well earnt refreshment. It will be nice when I can join them in a cold glass of rosé but still, not too long now.
Spent the afternoon going round in circles trying to find B and B accommodation for my trip away with Ann and Noel later this year. Who would've thought that it could be so difficult but there again, I want a place that does an evening meal, has lots of character, is in a picturesque town exactly on the route I want us to take. Oh yes, and of course for an amazing price! Actually I can't believe how much prices have gone up since the last time I had to do this.
Here's tonight's sunset with a crocodile shaped cloud. Rest assured, the black splodge is not a UFO hurtling its way toward the village but presumably a dust speck that's found itself into the camera. I'll just have to live with it as I guess it'll cost quite a lot to get it cleaned.
Weather:
30°, a sprinkling of overnight rain, cloud both ends of the day

My Home from Home

19.7.17: Twice in One day

Made the camp site my first stop this morning in order to catch up with Nono and Evelyn. Like most campers they were up and about when I arrived and typically, Nono, he'd made friends with the groundkeeper who'd cut them a deal on the electricity! We went down to the bar for a coffee and chat in the shade and were joined by Jean and Françoise. Home for a salad lunch. Spent the afternoon quietly watching the Tour de France with the shutters closed to keep the sun and heat out.
Soon, it was time to organise the apéritif for this evening's vernissage in Christian's room. Attendance was better of late, I suppose because Jean who is a member of the Association, is from the village and his photos were of the area.
10 of us came back to mine for a glass of cava while waiting for the flamenco evening at the bar.
Loli, also a member of the Association who came with us to Scotland, and Antonio gave a fabulous performance. The paella was excellent, the audience appreciative and the atmosphere lively. We're all hoping that Jean-Louis will rebook them. If you look back over these posts you'll see that this village showcases a wealth of artistic talent. Long may it continue!
Weather:
31°, sun and slightly less wind

18.7.17: Three Times in One Day

Started the day at the bar with Nicole P, Brigette and Martine (yes, another one). Moved from their table to another to have more coffee with Penny, Kate and Lynn with whom I had a meeting to discuss a forthcoming event that "Cancer Support France" is organising in the village. Showed them around the facilities at the recreation ground that they're going to be using and gathered one or two things to do in my role as liaison with the Mairie. http://sud-de-france.cancersupportfrance.org/sud-de-france-aude-ari%C3%A8ge-pyr%C3%A9n%C3%A9es-orientalestarn-and-tarn-et-garonne-e
We then came back to the bar for lunch. Just had an omelette and downed lots of water.
Finally, I spent the whole of this afternoon bringing the blog up to date. Yes, you're reading this in real time!
This evening the rump of the "Project Bagpipe" group had a meeting once again at the bar. David was able to report that he'd had a favourable response to the proposition. Did a double take at one point to see Nono and Evelyn in the square, a day earlier than I'd anticipated. No problem though. They'd installed their camping car at the village camp site and said they'd entertain themselves this evening as I was busy.
Meeting over, I stayed on for a short time for a chat with Vanessa and Debra and then went home to my remote control.
Weather:
30°, blue skies, wind in the evening

Another Meal Out

Went with Nick to the supermarket as Nono and Evelyn (other cousins of Christian's) are due to visit this week. My kind of shopping; a quick whizz around and home.
Met Ann and Dani for coffee which lasted until lunch time. Dozed off on the settee after my rapidly thrown together salad but was woken by a fire engine going by.
This evening JJ and I were invited for a buffet supper at Nicole V's along with a German couple, Jürgen and Karin and Roger, a Brit who couldn't stay for more than a drink. We ate well, talked a lot and made appreciative comments about all the work that had been done in the house. The work had lasted about 10 months so I can quite understand why she'd want to show it off.
Weather:
30°, short downpour at the end of the afternoon.

Trying to do a Good Deed

Coffee with Nicole S, Anne and Regina a new "recruit". Regina is of Polish origin and was widowed at much the same time as me. She's for ever saying come and visit me as she's lonely but sadly she's a bit hard going, so it's not surprising that I've not found my way over. I though joining us for coffee on a Sunday would help get her out but she didn't linger long with us and I'm not sure she'll come back again. Nicole S didn't make much effort with Regina, immediately giving me her seat next to her so she didn't have to continue listening to her. The 3 of us who were left had lunch but as the terrace was busy and noisy we didn't hang about. Came home to do the blog and make a salad with this tomato that Martine had given me. It weighed 654g (about 1lb 8oz) and was delicious.Weather:
32°, sun

Another Day, Another Dress

15.7.17: Another Day, Another Dress

Don and Vlad arrived as arranged at 9am to knock out the fireplace and they found it was harder than they thought it would be. There was a lot of sledge hammering, grunting and sweating going on as a consequence. Anyway, I left them to it and went with Michel to the market. We were really pushing our luck as being the big annual festival (think bars in the streets, bull fights, young bulls running in the street, marching bands, crowds and an enormous amount of "merrymaking" and noise) as most locals who are not into the festivities, avoid the town like the plague. Several of the regular market traders give it a miss too. We managed to find a parking space at the supermarket and then went our separate ways until it was time to come back. For once, I hardly met anyone I knew and as well the usual dogs on leads, pushchairs and shopping trolleys, there were also the bandas and the crowds gathered around them to listen to them and lots of temporary stalls to negotiate as well. I bought another dress today; it's the same as the one Janine bought in one of the shops in the town, though at half the price. (See 14.6.17 post)
Michel invited me to share a pot luck lunch with him to which I contributed. Well, with the state that my place was in, I couldn't have invited him to mine with all the dust and rubble that had been created.

The workers left about 4pm after passing the mop over the floor but of course, I needed to go over it again. Finally finished dusting, hoovering and mopping in the kitchen, sitting room and down the stairs at 9pm. I was nothing if not thorough! By this time, I was hot, tired and hungry and needless to say worn out. To make matters worse I only got 4 hours sleep that night but hey, there's no need to feel sorry for me, it's hardly the end of the world!
Weather:
31°, sun

Vive la Révolution!

What a good night's sleep I had; at least 8 hours. Fed the neighbour's cat as she's on holiday and then put on my sun hat and went off to the Bastille celebrations. Thankfully, the ceremony at the war memorial where there's next to no shade, was short. Just enough time to greet all present, sing the Marseillaise and lay a wreath. Then the procession followed the brass band through the village to the Mairie. There is not much more shade on the Mairie forecourt either. Philippe, who was a 4* general, poor soul was in full uniform to present the "Military medal" to an old soldier. Diplomas were given and promotions recognised for serving fire officers as well. The Maire gave a speech about the shame of having had such a low rate of participation in the Presidential and General Elections when there are so many places where people can't vote or the elections are corrupt. It all ended with an apéritif and a couple of Sardanes. There was more sardane in the square late afternoon and a bar and disco at the recreation ground until 2am but I participated in neither.. The fireworks were postponed until next week as only half of them had been delivered!!!

Duty done, I met Nicole S and Yasmin to go to Besalú, a lovely medieval town over the border.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Besal%C3%BA I suggested the Castell de Besalú restaurant with garden just at its start if we didn't want to go searching; after all, it was hot and nearly 2pm. Nicole preferred to walk around and check out other places first and of course, wouldn't you know, we came back to the first one! Lunch was excellent for 13€ and the garden a pleasant place to while away some time.
Refreshed, we set off to do a more leisurely trip around the town, looking at two of the three churches, the ruins of the Jewish baths and synagogue etc. Besalú makes much of it's Jewish history. There's even an annual festival but needless to say, back in the 14th and 15th centuries it was a story of tolerance moving on to separation and finally persecution. Follow this link if you're interested to know more http://www.redjuderias.org/google/google_maps_print/besalu-en.html
It's not all about old stones; there are a few shops selling souvenirs, upmarket foodstuffs and clothes. I bought myself a new dress, following my own inclinations colour wise rather than Nicole's advice. Yasmin was of the same opinion as me which maybe shows the difference between French and British taste.
We ended the visit with a cuppa on the main square.
Approaching the border on the way home, we could see a huge cloud of thick smoke which worryingly, signalled a forest fire. 350 fire officers including a brigade from the Spanish side fought the fire over nearly 470 acres (190 hectares); as yet the origin is unknown though the smart money is on it being deliberate. https://ban.jo/News/Europe/20170714/Massive-Forest-Fire-Erupts-In-Le-Boulou-France-Le-Boulou/ We were lucky enough to get back before both the main road and motorway were closed.
I was unlucky enough to find that I'd lost my glasses somewhere after buying my dress. It's too far to go back to Besalú and my first thought was "ah well, they were the spare pair that I got for 1€ extra when I bought my prescription specs; then I remembered that I was wearing them because I'd lost my "proper" ones when I was in UK at Christmas. Suppose I'll just have to shell out for some new ones though until then I'll have to make do with some off-the-shelf glasses. And to think, I usually wear my glasses on a string so as not to lose them!
Weather:
30°, sun

A Taste of Luxury

There weren't many of us at the language exchange this morning. Too hot? Of course, we diehards went to the bar afterwards.
This afternoon, I worked on the blog. Yes, I am getting there.
This evening Gilbert and Suzanne had invited a few of us from the Spanish class (Bruno, his wife and me) for "apéritifs" in honour of our "Prof" Paul. well, it was certainly more than an apéritif; there were two enormous trays of seafood accompanied by melon and ham, cheese, fruit and desserts, champagne and wine. Bruno has a business buying and selling classic cars and he came in a magnificent specimen. An American Zimmer from the 1980's. Forget a two wheeled contraption with a basket on the front much driven by elderly women and think Hollywood. Christian would have been drooling and I have to say, I wouldn't have said "no", if I'd been offered a lift.
Weather:
29°, sun, cloud with a slight breeze later

Ouch!!

Morning:
Wrote the bagpipe proposal for David to take to Scotland tomorrow. Always was a last minuter.
Afternoon:
Had my hair coloured.
Evening:
Went to Racou for tapas with Diana, Robin and Martine, who had just been stung by a wasp. You wouldn't know from this photo how much she was suffering. Came back to the bar for a nightcap and for me to get some bicarbonate of soda from the house to put on Martine's sting. It brought almost immediate relief. So, that's worth noting.
Weather:
31°, sun

Spending Time with Little Result

11.7.17: In a Bad Mood

Delivered some posters for a forthcoming vernissage ending up at the bar for a coffee with Nicole P. Diana who is in the village for a few days joined us.
The only other thing that I did was try to transfer some ebooks from an email to my ipod. Usually, it's the easiest thing to do but for some reason, only one out of seven went. Spent ages without success and frustratingly couldn't understand why.
It was a relief to stop and rid myself of my bad mood when JJ called by and had a beer.
Weather:
30°, sun



10.7.17: In a Dither

After my morning coffee with Nicole P, I spent most of the day foutering. I just couldn't make up my mind which usb key, ipod cover and galaxy cable to order. Finally got the order off with the usual frustrating moments when the online site didn't play ball.
Later Don and Vlad came to look at the work to be done to make the fireplace ready for the stove that I'm putting in and that was it.
Weather:
28°, rain and thunder

An Evocative Social Interlude

This morning's coffee was livened up by the spectacle of the Bishop who was in the village to bless a recently restored banner and say Mass, in procession with several other berobed men. There was also an armed presence to make sure that no harm came to him. While this was enough to give anyone the shivers, I did have a little giggle to think of the ensuing lunch with the good and faithful of the parish being a tajine cooked by a Muslim woman.
Went home for lunch as I was booked for this evening's meal with 8 others at the bar. Hans who plays double bass  and two guitarists were playing "jazz manouche" (gypsy swing as played by Jjango Reinhardt) and other standards from the 40's and 50's.
It was perfect for a fine summer's evening in the south of France with the fountain tinkling in the background. Just close your eyes and you can picture the scene. All that was missing was my glass of rosé.
Weather:
29°, sun, rain in the afternoon and one rumble of thunder

Where's the Social Life Gone?

8.7.17: A Tiny Bit of Play
This time the three guys who were to put in the big patio window in the Nest, arrived on time, at 8am. While they, huffed, puffed and sweated away, I spent a pleasurable moment at the market. Went in with Michel and had coffee with Françoise whom I met by chance.
The workers finished, leaving the place tidy for 3pm and I continued having a lazy day.
Weather:
28°, sun
 
7.7.17: A Quite a Bit of Work

This morning the Association organised the last boules tournament before having a break over summer. Didn't play, just helped organise the apéritif and of course took a few photos for the website which is almost as behind as "Chitchat".
Rather than having a leisurely lunch with the boulists on the terrace of the bar, I came back and scrubbed the small terrace which was a bit green and grubby in places. The height of summer is not the best time but it's so good to see it done.
Sauveur, the electrician came around to bring back my key and have some coffee and sympathy after a near death experience recently.
Finally managed to catch up with Philippe for our bagpipe meeting over an apéritif  then it was home to a stint in front of the telly.
Weather:
29°, sun and blue skies

A Slow Start to the Week

6.7.17: Liberating our "Inner Child."

Was able to cut the language exchange this morning as i had a bus to catch to take me to Henri and Michèle's for lunch. A BBQ with their artist cousin Any was on the menu. Even in the shade, it was hot. Feeling tired, I gave their proposed visit to the Dali exhibition a miss and took the bus home. Worked a bit on "Chitchat" and then went to JJ's with Carmen and Mireille for supper. Conversation flowed and as did our artistic juices. This creation was made from what was on the table (cherry tomatoes, tomato stalks, crisps, serviette, ice cream scoop). This is the female version; the male version included a cork (a blue one!) and halved cherry tomatoes! To think that there were two actual and one ex member of the Council involved in the enterprise. What would the Opposition make of this? Who cares? A good laugh after some serious discussion was just the right note to end the evening on.
Weather:
29°, cloudy start, sun, cloudy night

5.7.17: International Socialising

Did even more domestic stuff today and the tank was changed. Thought I had a meeting with Philippe about the bagpipe project but he thought it was at apéro time before dinner and I thought it was apéro time before lunch!

In the evening there was a party at Dani and Brian’s and thankfully there was a good mix of French, Brits and with a sprinkling of Scandinavians. It was enjoyable meeting new people and sampling the buffet. Shame I had to forgo the cava.

Weather:

29°, sun, cloudy start and cloudy night

4.7.17: Rapid Response
In order to miss the crowds Nicole P and I made an early start to go to La Jonquera to do a bit of shopping. We'd thought to see Mathilde but she was on a day off. Contented ourselves with a coffee and then another one in the village when we got back.
Called out the plumber before lunch as I don't have any hot water and lo and behold, he was here before 2pm! As if all the work I've been doing isn't enough, I now need a new hot water tank.
Weather:
28°, cloudless blue skies

3.7.17: Not a lot going on
There was a power cut this morning for which we'd been given plenty of warning so, with no access to the computer, I continued the clean up in the cave.
In the afternoon I accompanied Nicole P to Perpignan for her mammogram and thankfully all was well. Tea at the bar and home to renew my acquaintance with the computer.
Weather:
31°, sun

2.7.17: Halleluja!

Made an early start to clean the Nest before a well deserved coffee at the bar. A fair number of us this morning. I inherited some juicy plums from Hazel and some aubergines from Martine. JJ came by at one point and found himself surrounded, not that that bothered him.
Stayed on for lunch of rabbit with Martine and Nicole S. all in all a predictable Sunday morning.
Spent the afternoon trying to catch up with "Chitchat" and then in the evening went over to the "Maison pour Tous" for a gospel concert given by three folk from the village. it was good and not too long. Next followed a cup of not very good tea at the bar then home for another evening of tv.
Weather:
26°, strong chilly wind

1.7.17: TV Time Travel

Jeremy, one of the window guys should have been here at 9am but didn't arrive until nearly 10h30 and by the look of the bags under his eyes, he'd had a really late night. Anyway, I didn't have time to sympathise as I'd already put back my meeting with Nicole S to go to the market. Met loads of people, didn't buy the dress that I fancied as Nicole thought it wasn't the right colour for me and had a drink under the shade of the plane trees. Did some cleaning after Jeremy left and had a quiet night in with a braw laddie called James Fraser. Before you get any ideas, I should add that he's the hero in "Outlander", a time slip drama which moves between  Oxford in 1945 and the Scottish Highlands in 1743. Another bloody tale that is taking over my tv time.
Weather:
24°, sunny