Days Inbetween

30.12.19:

Highlights of these last few days were:

* Dinner at mine with Jeanie, Daniel, Sylvie (French) and Beni (Swiss ). Managed quite well but it just ain't the same. Single hosting is hard work but at least I'm making an effort to be more hospitable!

*  After an apéro chez moi, Martine and I took Nicole to dinner at the restaurant to celebrate her birthday. I had octopus salad for a starter and to my surprise, enjoyed it. Much to our annoyance, there was a table of 4 Brits, two of whom were pompous and overbearing ..... and they left the door wide open when they left! I hung my head in shame for them. We were offered a digestif on the house which made a nice end to the evening.

Back home, I marinaded the venison for New Year's Eve dinner and cleaned the stove (don't ask unless you are desperate to know why!). Eat your heart out Cinders! 

But mostly it was routine stuff; a trip to the market, supermarket shopping with Nick, coffee with Jean and Françoise, also with Nicole, TV (a lot), treadmill (only once; shame on me!)

Weather:

Temperatures between 12° - 18° . chilly morning and beautiful clear blue skies

Autumn is here

5.11.18 - 25.11.18

Yes, I'm still here! Earlier this year it was too hot to sit in front of the computer and bring you up to date. Now that it's turned chilly, when I'm home, I just want to stay snug by the fire when I'm not out and about making paper flowers for next March's carnival, organising things for the association's participation in the Téléthon and the Pipe Band's visit next year, drinking coffee, going to the Ciné Club (Ladybird, 3 Billboards outside Ebbing), or sitting around some table or other with friends (chez JJ, chez Jean and Françoise, chez James and Beverley, chez moi). There's also a bit of cleaning, shopping, treadmill, even a bit of cooking going on too. Oh, and also time spent trying to get my papers together for a forthcoming interview for my "Carte de Séjour". Many thanks to all those ****** Brexiteers for the uncertanties that have come our way and the drop in the value of the pound and all that means for those of us on a fixed income.
Still, all the more reason to make the most of life. Carpe diem! There's snow on Canigou, the leaves are rich in autumnal colour and a good pot of soup warms body and soul!
Last night I went to a show down in Port Vendres that included music from 3 Spanish guitarists, flamenco, a violinist and stunning aerial acrobatics to take you far from the mundane.
Follow this link for a few photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/7Gt3qNR91mc1a66H6
Weather:
Temperatures as low as 7° (6th) and as high as 22°(12th). More rain and cloud than usual, interspersed with blue skies and sun.

Family Visit N° 2

3.11.18:
Frank, Stéphanie and the girls left early this morning which left time for some exercise on the treadmill and a trip to the market with Maggie. The sun was shining and there was pristine snow on Canigou set against a backdrop of a cloudless blue sky. fabulous.
Met Nicole this evening for a glass of wine and a catch up without her normally ever-present son.
Weather:
16°, sun

2.11.18:

Coffee with Nicole and her son and were later joined by Frank and Stéphanie after which we went over to the restaurant for a meal "en famille". The food is so much better than at the bar and at lunch time is even better value. It's a bit late to be thinking that I should eat there more. Sabrina finally confirmed that they have sold and will be closing before too long. The new owners plan to continue in the same style when they open next Spring, so all is not lost
The family made the most of their last day here with a trip to the sea to see a friend and to Spain to buy petrol, which is cheaper there. Meantime, I prepared this evening's apéritif dinatoire with Jean and Françoise.

1.11.18:

Today, people traditionally visit deceased love ones, often to wash the plastc flowers or to replace last year's chrysanthamums. Didn't join the family but went to the café instead. Christian would have approved; he was there with me!
JJ  and Jacques came for dinner so there was good conversation, a few drinks and a tasty meal of Pork and Chorizo, my go-to dish.
Weather:
18 deg, sun

31.10.18:
No lunch to prepare today as the family went of to Perpignan despite a forecast of rain. A really nice thing happened this morning at the baker's. Dominique, who was on the German trip, wanted to buy me a coffee but when we realised that neither of the bars were open, the baker offered to make us one. Of course, in return we treated ourselves to a pain au chocolat.
Unlike Rowena, who appeared for a cuppa this afternoon, literally soaked through to the skin, the family managed to stay dry. With the wet weather, there were no kids at the door trick or treating so the girls fell heir to a huge bag of sweeties. It's an ill wind .......

30.10.18

Joined the family for a day out in Figueres; coffee, fruit and veg market, a bit of shopping and lunch on the Ramblas. Unlike the others who had tapas, I went for a "fideua" cooked with squid ink and ended up with black lips and tongue for most of the afternoon! 
Weather:
16°, sun, wind

29.10.18:
Committee meeting, a hot chocolate in the cold bar. Must be the drop in temperature but I felt tired. Couldn't sit through to the end of "The Bookshop" but I'd already seen it so an early night was more tempting.
Weather:
10°, cloud.

28.10.18:
In between preparing for Frank, Stéphanie and the girls' arrival, I managed my usual coffee at the bar. Some things are sacred, are they not?
Weather:
10°, rain, cloud

Thank goodness for the café and invitations from friends

28.7.18: Out for dessert:
Missed going to the market as I was waiting for a parcel to be deliverd some time between 8 in the moning and 8 at night. Damn thing didn't arrive! Luckily, having opted out of a full meal, I have a date to join Michel and Anita to eat dessert (cheesecake) at his place. More later.
Weather:
29° cloud then sun. Not a breath of air

27.7.18: Out for apéros

Coffee with Nicole and another lethargic afternoon. Mojitos chez Michel livened up the evening especially as a young couple, his airbnb guests, arrived and joined us.
Passing through the square on my way home, the bar was thronged with folk listening to the music. Despite being better than the last concert, I resited requests to stay, preferring to try and catch the lunar eclipse from my terrace. Sadly cloud obscured the view for much of the time but I did manage to snap the tail end of it.
Weather:
34°, hot and sunny, cloud later

 26.7.18: Routine Thursday
Language exchange followed as usual with a stopover at the bar.
Weather:
37°, hot and sunny

25.7.18: Out for apéros

Had a change of coffee venue this morning (Joëlle's) though not of company.
This evening though was the highlight of the week with apéros at Jim and Mags'. A good mix of French (including JJ), Scots and English with endless Pimms to drink and a variety of goodies to eat looking out on a fabulous bit of scenery.
Weather:
36°, hot and sunny

24.7.18: Out for coffee
Coffee with Nicole P, worked on the association website.
Weather:
31°, hot and sunny

23.7.18: Out for coffee and tea
Supermarket with Nick, coffee with Nicole P and walked to Nicole S's for tea.
Weather:
31°, hot and sunny

Football, Food and Photos

13.7.18: Last association obligation for a while

Coffee in the morning with Nono, Evelyn and Nicole. My visitors come with their own accommodation, so they went back to theirs after lunch and I had a free afternoon until it was time to prepare a bite to eat for this evening.
Association duties called all too soon; there was the apéritif to set up before ardent exhibition goers turned up for the vernissage. It was quite well attended but as the photographer is a local person, that wasn't really surprising. There was little food left over which is always a relief though the President did skip off before it was time to clear up. Nothing surprising there either!
Weather:
32°, hot and sunny

12.7.18: Feeling smug
Early morning rendez-vous with Marguerite to buy provisions for tomorrow evening's vernissage, then the language exchange and a cuppa at the bar afterwards.
Moved furniture up and downstairs; not the wisest course of action but there you are, who else is going to do it?
Nono and Evelyn arrived for dinner after which we went to the bar to listen to the music and have a herbal tea. By the way, have you noticed how often non-alcoholic drinks crop up these days rather than "a glass of rosé"? Can only be good, eh?
Weather:
30°, cooler when the rain and thunder came in the afternoon

11.7.18: More good music, lovely setting, disappointing food
Coffee at Joëlle's on the main road, pottered and prepared food for Nono and Evelyn's (cousins of Christian) arrival tomorrow. The evening was spent with Martine, Laura and David overlooking the lake, listening to "swing" and eating a meal that wasn't worth the 30€ it cost. Sitting there brought back many memories of the time that Christian and I walked there every day.  Not that it was a pass time that he enjoyed!
Weather:
32°, overcast, rain showers overnight

10.7.18: Allez les Bleus!
Went to the bar late this morning for my cuppa and was sitting quietly enjoying the peace until the U3A group arrived; they well and truly outdid the the terrible two. They came with a photo of one of their group who had died the day before to put on the table with them. Beat a hasty retreat, preferring to go home to my trusty tablette, the volume of which is easily controlled.
And there I stayed until I wandered over to the bar to experience the atmosphere at the end of the French semi final against Belgum. They won and as Martine was there we lingered a bit longer for a cuppa.
Weather:
34° sunny

9.7.18: Good music, friends and tapas

Had a coffee at the other bar with Martine and Nicole this morning and went to the folk evening in my regular this evening. A pleasant way to spend a warm summer's evening.
Weather:
33°, sunny

Uninspiring Start to the Week

31.3.18: Returning Hospitality

No market this morning. Was so busy organising this evening's meal for Mags, Jim, Terry, Ann, Nicole and JJ that I forgot to go and listen to the "goigs", Easter songs sung "carol" style in the streets.
Being Easter, I did a roast leg of lamb à la Jamie. https://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/lamb-recipes/best-roast-leg-of-lamb/ It was very easy and tasty, so give it a go. Ann, bless her, brought a seriously delicious raspberry and chocolate tart. The Anglo/French mix worked well too.
Weather:
17°, sun, blue sky, wind


30.3.18:
Went into Céret with Margaret, Kelvin and Irene. Had a pleasant leisurely time and then Margaret and I came back for an omelette lunch at the bar. Jacques came in the afternoon to take apart a wardrobe for me which rather than take to the dump, he's decided to treat the wordworm and keep it himself.
Weather:
19°, sun in morning, cloud latter.

29.3.18:
Went to the market in Figueres with Michel. It was also his birthday but sadly we couldn't go to the restaurant he'd thought of as it was closed. Ended up in the one by the market which was hardly worthy of a celebration.
Back home I played "matchmaker" between JJ and a new member of the association as they are both interested in philosophy. Even though it was apéritif time, I just drank tea. Tea drunk and after a polite period of time in conversation, I went home to watch tv which was more to my style.
Weather:
17°, sun

28.3.18:
Pottered and then prepared supper for Margaret, Kelvin and Irene who are over on holiday. It was a simple affair of apéros, soup, cheese and dessert. The soup was actually ace. It was a minestrone livened up with "putanesca" flavours of finely chopped olives, anchovies, capers and chillis.
Weather:
21°, sun, cloud later

27.3.18:

Did some work and then went for a walk to crank up the step counter. Took this photo on my way around. Makes me wonder why I don't get myself out more to take advantage of all this gorgeous scenery. Came home and did some more work on the website. Tv and a long chat with Jen and then ended with even more tv.
Weather:
18°, sun, cloud

26.3.18: Busy Day, Lazy Evening
Committee meeting, coffee with Nicole, lunch at home. GP appointment this afternoon, a visit to the painting group but to busy to have tea with them. Gave Kevin's "live aid" meeting to organise a benefit concert for those effected by the "tornado" a miss this evening in favour of staying infront the TV.
Weather:
16°, sun and cloud

A Cold End to the Month

28.02.18: A "Stay in the Warm" Day
Treated myself to a late start and a day in doing nothing more strenuous than some catching up on the association web site.
Weather:
8°, snow in the rain

27.02.18: Braving the Cold
Took a trip with Martine to Figueres; her to find a devil's outfit for the carnival and me to try on the red shoes that I'd seen last week. Martine found what she wanted but sadly the shoes that were left were not in my size and as I'm too stubborn to look at other colours, my money stayed in my pocket.
Goodness, it was cold and unsurprisingly, there were fewer stall holders than usual. Even so, we braved the weather to have a walk around in order that Martine could discover some unknown nooks and cranies.
For the second time in a few days, lunch was taken at Lizzeran accompanied by a cheeky little glass of cava.
Stopped off at La Jonquera to have a quick look at shoes there but to no avail. Beat a retrait back home where I made some red pepper soup to share with JJ after his meeting at the Mairie.
Weather:
5°, blue sky

No Need to Cook

22.2.18: Encore au Restaurant
Slipped out of the language exchange early so that I could catch the bus to meet Madeleine for lunch. We'd settled on "Le Jardin" which I hadn't eaten in since it had changed hands. Have to say that the interior is now far more inviting and the food was excellent which with a sophisticated presentation at 14€ for two courses is great value. https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Restaurant_Review-g196603-d12204552-Reviews-Le_Jardin_Rest
Spent an hour in the library before taking the bus back to the village and a carnival meeting.
Weather:
8°, sun, blue sky, cold wind

21.2.18: Au Restaurant

I've been talking about taking Dani and Brian for lunch for ages but getting a mutually suitable date hasn't proved easy. They've taken me out a couple of times so it was a thank you long over due. Settled on "Lizaran" in Figueres which is a favourite of theirs and well quoted by several others as well. https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Restaurant_Review-g315921-d3205531-Reviews-LIZARRAN_Figu
There was a great choice of tapas on a serve yourself basis and then every so often, a bell would ring and a server would come around with hot tapas. Reasonably priced, it was a good experience and to be repeated. Underneath that huge ball of candyfloss, there's an egg custard. Mine and Brian's dessert was  covered with chocolate and far less elaborate.
After lunch Brian and Dani visited the toy museum which I gave a miss preferring to wander around in the sun; I spotted a couple of pairs of red shoes but of course, at 3pm the shop was still closed. Even after having a cuppa before heading back to the car, it wasn't open. Such a shame as I've been looking for a pair for a very long time. What's more, they were in the sale. Ah, well, my present ones will see me through until the better weather but I've been saying that for the last couple of years; no doubt they'll give up on me at some time in the none too far distant future. On the plus side, I upped the much needed number of daily steps taken after a few static days in front of various screens.
Weather:
10°, sun, blue sky, cold

20.2.18: Encore Chez des Amis

Lunch at Jean and Françoise's with JJ, Mohammed and Hélène. Rabbit and lively, diverse conversation were on the menu. Afternoon was spent in front of the computer and this evening I joined Lynn, Ann and Dani for our monthly apérobio.
Weather:
15°, cloud, sun, blue sky

19.2.18: Working for the Association
Met Sauria at the café to explain how the Association works. Obviously sold it well as she signed up straight away.  Spent all afternoon catching up with member administration and nothing much else.
Weather:
12°, sun and cloud

18.2.18: Chez des Amis
Coffee at the bar and this time I was able to linger. Even had an apéritif. Spent a lazy afternoon and joined Doug, Erika, Nicole, Nick and Lizzie for an apéritif dinatoire at Flo's which she organised for us to meet her English friends Graham and Carin who were there for the weekend.
Weather:
13°, cloud and rain

17.2.18: Chez Moi

For once Michel was on time to pick me up from the café to go to the market. Didn't even have time to drink my coffee. Met lots of people including Madeleine who's on her first visit back since selling her holiday home here. Had a coffee with Françoise, Henri and Michèle. Then Jean appeared with a bunch of flowers for me. Added them to the ones that Daniel brought me last week.
This afternoon Michel came around for tea and cake and this evening I had the telly for company.
Weather:
14°, sun

Having Fun, Gaining Kilos

6.2.18: And then there were .... 3

Eating out with friends, eating at friends', finally, it was my turn to invite people to mine.
Spent a long time preparing an apéritif dinatoire for seven of us but during the day, Kathy, Jean, Françoise and Jean-Jacques dropped out which left just Daniel and Michel to eat the array of things that I'd made. Never mind; though I have to say it almost feels like the Agatha Christie that I'm listening to as I write!
Earlier I'd been listening to coverage of the 100th anniversary of some women obtaining the vote in 1918. What a long time it took but there again French women had to wait a darn sight longer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCtGkCg7trY
Weather:
6°, sun, cloud

5.2.18: Out with  Foodies
Another little lie in before heading off to Perpignan for a gastronomic tour with Michel, his cousin Daniel, here for a few days and Christian, a Belgian recently returned after nearly 40 years in Venezuela. Started with "la Maison Paré" a mouth watering butchers and chacuterie shop with a bistro attached. If you don't believe me just follow the link. http://www.maison-pare.com/index.php
Next came a stop for Michel to buy baba rums after which it was time for lunch at the "Orchidée Thai" where you eat cheaply in a corner of an Asian grocery shop surrounded by sacks of rice and exotic fruits. Christian obviously found it pretty downmarket to what he was used to but didn't complain. " https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Restaurant_Review-g187156-d1076799-Reviews-L_Orchidee_Thai-Perpignan_Pyrenees_Orientales_Occitanie.html
Next there was coffee at Eric and Kathy Marsiam's beautiful flat in a listed Art Deco building. I'd never been before and was well impressed. Eric is an artist of some reknown and will be one of five painters chosen to represent France at a forthcoming exhibition in Shanghai or is it Kuala Lumpa?

Sadly, we were running late and couldn't linger.
Final stop was  for cheese near the Place de la République. I was tempted by a pice of Corsican sheep's cheese decorated with an imbedded fern. Eyes watered again but this time it was because of the  price! https://www.google.fr/search?tbm=lcl&ei=Np6JWsHsLIb1gQb206XgDw&q=hélène+colls+perpignan&oq=hélène+
Another telly night rounded off the day.
Weather:
10°, cloud, rain

4.2.18: Upping my Cultural Game
Slept in a bit, had coffee as usual and was joined today by Françoise. Lunch, ironing, computer and then a concert given by 11 cellists from the National Orchestra of Toulouse. Not a great fan of the instrument, I'd forced myself to go (a free ticket tipped the scales) and I was so glad I did.
On the programme:
Bela Bartok ~ Danses Roumaines
Kurt Veill ~ Alabama Song
David Popper ~ Polonaise
Maurice Ravel ~ Kaddish
Astor Piazzola ~ Adios Nonino
Heitor Villa-Lobos ~ Bachianas Brasilieras
Piotr Illitch Tchaïkovsky Mélodi
Astor Piazzolla ~ La meutrte del Angel
Johann Strauss ~ Le Beau Danube Bleu
Piotr Illitch Tchaïkovsky ~ Trépak
Weather:
11°, cloud, rain

3.2.18: Indulging my Sweet Tooth

Michel's back and Jacques is away so there was no contest to give me a lift to the market. Had coffee with David and Laura who are back for their winter break and a sprinkling of other folk from the village. Had lunch at Michel's with our deceased dentist's wife. She's getting her life together and luckily for us, has managed to sell the practice. All being well, the new dentist should be installed around the end of February. She brought the most delicious dessert from a nationally known patissier who has been winning awards since 1984.https://www.olivier-bajard.com/en/
Walked from Michel's over to Flo's for  pancakes and a trivial pursuits type game. Nicole S was there and was her usual competitive self, being miffed when she drew the card which automatically gave 1 point rather than having the chance to win 2 points by answering a question correctly.
Spent the night in front of the tv.
Weather:
10°, sun, cloud and cold wind

Nothing to Set the Heather Alight

28.1.18: Ashamedly Lazy Sunday

Coffee then an apéritif at the bar.
Blog catch up.
Pottering, drinking tea and watching tv.
Weather:
16°, sun and blue sky

27.1.18: No Flowers, No Computer

Coffee at the bar while I waited for my lift to the market with Michel. Market was quiet with both fewer stall holders and fewer shoppers.
What else was there to do on a  wet afternoon but to curl up on the settee and watch a couple of films.
Weather:
11°, cloud and rain

26.1.18: Less TV than Usual!

Well, they were right about the rain which meant that Maggie and I cancelled our trip to the dump. No great hardship there. Did some cooking, had a late coffee at the bar with Nicole and then stayed on for lunch with Nany.
Saw Martine at flower making in the afternoon and we'd both come to the conclusion that the Costa Brava is best left until more accomodation is available. We'll try Girona instead.
Despite having had a cuppa and some chocolate while we worked I'd just made a pot of tea at home when Michel phoned to invite me around for a drink. Rapidly abandoned the tea in favour of a glass of red wine.
Weather:
12°, cloud and rain

25.1.18: Communication Vagaries
Language exchange during which I had the two most boring participants in my group. Even a cuppa at the bar did little to lift my spirits as there was the prospect of paper flower making later on.
Double wammy! My heart sank as I found myself making flowers next to this morning's boring woman who didn't stop bending my ear for the next 2 hours. Highlight of the afternoon was tea and galettes.

In the evening there was the AGM of the twinning association which focussed on the visit from the Normans at the end of April. I'm putting up 3 people who I don't think I've ever met. There was a bit of discord as the visit has been arranged at the same time as an association holiday to Portugal. As the two associations have many of the same members, it was all rather stupid. What happened to communication? All ended well with an apéritif to bring the meeting to a close.
There was good news though; the builder has been and put a tarpaulin over Margaret's roof but without her having accepted the estimate! Just in time though; rain is forecast for the next couple of days.
Martine and I left early and nipped into the bar next door to discuss our project to get away from time to time together. Decided to look for something on the Costa Brava.
Weather:
14°, cloudy

24.1.18: Maison pour Tous to the Rescue

Isn't it just the way? I had to send some papers toute de suite to complete my dossier for the grant but the scanner played up with 2 pages still to go. Luckily, the MpT, the Maire's information centre, did it for me. All a bit of a rush as I had to be at Margaret's for 10.15am to meet the insurance assessor. Of course, he was late and I can tell you, it was a cold, dismal ¾ hour until he came.
In the afternoon, Terry and Ann invited me to join them in a trip to the shopping mall in La Jonquera; looked around but as usual, there was nothing to inspire other than a welcome cuppa.
Linde came for supper after which we watched the "Queen of Katwe" about a young Ugandan woman coming from the Katwe slums who went on to be a chess champion. Watch it if you can; it's a nice "feel good" movie. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_of_Katwe
Weather:
14°, sun and cloud

23.1.18: Water Everywhere but in the Tap

 My first task was to fill buckets, kettles and a baby bath with water as there was to be a cut at 9am and no indication as to when it would be reestablshed.
Strolled around and sat reading in the sun in Céret while Yasmin was at the doctor's. Had a lengthy coffee before lunch at home.
Afternoon in front of the computer and Jean-Jacques came for an apéro in the evening.
Weather:
19°, sun

22.1.18: Early Start to the Week

Committee meeting first thing.
Inspection visit by the organisation that's giving me a grant toward the work in the house.
Coffee at bar.
Computer.
Apérobio: All present and correct.
Sorry that the photo doesn't capture the number of bees being busy going about their business on this winter honeysuckle. It was quite a sight.
Weather:
19°, sun

Taking My Foot of the Pedal

30.12.17: Unseasonally Warm Wind Blowing

Managed to have a longish lie as there wasn't any need to get the bus to the market as Jacques phoned offering a lift. There were more people on the terraces than buying at the usual market stalls though there was quite a large crowd around the stall selling truffles. I didn't even try to get close to see the price as it was no doubt eyewatering. Made do instead with treating Jacques to a coffee and chatting in the sun.
End of the afternoon, I met Nicole for tea at the bar which I augmented with some Christmas cake. It's a big cake that will take ages to finish! What's not to like?
Weather:
19°, blue sky and a warm wind. Cloud later

29.12.17: Stay Home Day
Didn't set foot outside all day!
Weather:
16°, cloud and showers

28.12.17: Christmas Cake and Lady Grey
All was very quiet in the square when I went along to have my hair colour done this morning. after lunch did some association admin until Terry and Ann came to pick up the logs that I don't have any use for anymore. There visit coincided with teatime so it was all the excuse I needed to cut into my Christmas cake. Ooooh, I do love afternoon tea.
Rest of the day was spent doing the usual. No need to tell you what.
Weather:
10°, showers on and off

27.12.17: Saving the Day with a Packet of Smoked Salmon

Despite having an irritating cough, Nicole didn't cancel our lunch date chez moi. I'd looked out a really interesting quail recipe but when I read the label after I'd defrosted them, I found that they were rather too much out of date to safely serve up to a guest! Scrabbled around in the fridge for a last minute substitute. Luckily, Nicole's a friend who likes smoked salmon with pasta. And there was a tasty homemade beetroot and parsnip soup to start and small mincemeat cakes and cream for dessert. So what with a bottle of cava and chocolates as well, my honour was saved.
Weather:
11°, cloud some blue sky and rain on and off

26.12.17: Not a Public Holiday here

Another late start then, with the café being closed over the holiday, it was coffee at the other bar with Nicole. Rest of the day was spent with my feet up in front of the telly.
Weather:
13°, sun and cloud

Entertaining Friends

19.11.17: Supporting the Téléthon

It was lovely to linger in bed, with one ear on the French news whilst reading the paper and eating my breakfast.
Made it over to the square where mint tea and North African pastries were being served in aid of the Téléthon. Jean and Françoise came over as did their daughter and her family. It seemed only right that we patronised the café too as on any other Sunday , so Françoise and I took our pastries inside and bought something to drink. We were joined by Nicole P and Flo therefore, this Sunday felt more like old times. There's been no news from the other Nicole so I guess she's decided to write us off.
Had lunch at home and prepared some canapés until it was time to go up to the village hall for a concert in aid of the Téléthon. Two flutes and a piano envelopped us in lovely music composed by Fauré, Delibes. Offenbach, Schubert, Bizet, Scott Joplin and Chopin among others.
Our spirits replenished, it was time to do the same for our stomachs. Jean, Françoise and JJ came back to mine which made a pleasant change from watching the tv!
Weather:
18°, sun and light cloud

18.11.17: No Worries for Nigella

I won't go into detail as I know that you won't be any more interested in my day of doing chores (cleaning out the stove, general cleaning, cooking) than I was. Had just the canapés to do and was about to make a pot of tea when Nicole called with her pushchair-sized granchild to say "hello". A welcome break that didn't knock my schedule our of kilter.
Managed to entertain and serve Terry, Ann, Maggie and Trevor without stressing too much. Haven't been doing very well with taking photos of late and today was no exception. Sorry
Weather:
18°, sunny

Full House

3.11.17: A "bity" Kind of Day.
Frank and Stéphanie combined a wee trip out with buying a stock of wood pellets for the stove which will see me set for about three months. I stayed home while Sauveur finally came to finish a few bits and pieces and take away the huge ladder that's been propped against the wall for so long that it was growing roots. Did a fair bit of stuff for the Association, watched the last episode of the really interesting series about the Vietnam war. Echos of which apply today; false news, no exit strategy, cover ups and waste of life. Hegel was right. "the only thing we learn from history is that we learn nothing from history".
In the evening Frank, Stéphanie and I went around to Michel's for an apéritif then back home we had dinner and an early night as my visitors are setting off early tomorrow morning.


2.11.17: Spanish and Indian Flavours

While the family were out for the day, I had a cuppa at the bar with the exchangers and prepared tapas for this evening which included some flapjacks so that we could finish on a sweet note. https://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/member-recipes/recipe-detail/2982/
Our guests (Jean, Françoise and Michel) were gone by 10pm so we watched the 2nd Best Exotic Marigold Hotel which was 2nd best in every respect. 
Weather:
18°, sun
  
1.11.17: Somber Day, Cheery Evening

The family went off to Perpignan so I had another day to myself. Apart from Linde calling around briefly, I spent the time quietly. Today is Toussaint or "All Saints". It's the public holiday when families visit the graves of their loved ones to replace the dead flowers, dust the plastic ones and pull up the weeds.
Watched a fair bit of tv and was not happy that "George Gently" was bumped off; then Elvis in "Our Girl" was blown up. Who's next? Will Matt Crawford (Archers) recover?
Frank and Stéphanie prepared a tasty bacon risotto for dinner which we followed with "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" in front of the cosy glow of the stove. At least that brought a few laughs to go to bed on.
Weather:
19°, sun and light cloud

31.10.17: Trick or Spell

The family went out for the day which left me free to meet with Nicole S for a coffee. It was fine but she literally remained tight lipped when I asked her if she was going to come back to the café on a Sunday morning. So, the mystery of who or what has upset her remains unsolved.
Baked my usual Christmas cake (Delia's Creole Xmas cake) which gave off the most evocative smells. Well, fruit steeped in a variety of alcohol for a week and mixed spices would, wouldn't it?
This evening we inaugurated the stove; not that we really needed it as I spent the whole evening running up and down the stairs to give sweets to a stream of children who threaten to put a spell on you if you don't hand over a treat. Glad to say that I had just enough and consequently am still hale and hearty!
Weather:
18°, sun

30.10.17: Ever Reluctant Cleaner
Got stuck into some cleaning, some baking and took a break to have coffee which became an apéritif with Nicole. Imagine my embarassment when Ann, who was going to do the supermarket shopping that I couldn't carry, stopped by.
Frank and family arrived on schedule after their long drive from Paris. Spent a quiet night in.
Weather:
18°, sun and light cloud

Home Again

Strong winds had been forecast and one of the roads on the way to the airport was closed off we

assumed due to a tree across the road. Anyway, there was no problem with the flight taking off on time and my trusty tablet kept me entertained until we landed in warm, sunny France.
Ann and Terry were at the airport to meet me and kindly stopped off at the supermarket so that I could get some food in for the family's arrival tomorrow.
Spent a quiet evening as the next few days promise to be busy with 4 extra in the house.
Weather:
13°in Birmingam, 24° here

Dining In, Dining Out

17.8.17: Home Alone Again

Emma found another leak this morning; this time in the cave which I guess is coming from the shower on the 1st floor. ****** the air was blue for a short while.
The family left to head home at the end of the morning. It was lovely having them around and I'm so appreciative that they still want to come here.
Again circumstances meant that I gave the language exchange a miss but once I'd waved the family off, I had time for a quick coffee at the bar before getting the bus to Perpignan for my annual mamogram. It's always such a relief when there's nothing abnormal detected. And to my credit, I walked from the bus station to the clinic and back in the heat (15 minutes each way) rather than take the bus.
In the evening Nancy invited, JJ, André and Nany to Céret for dinner. This photo, taken from the car park on our way to the restaurant, is of a sculpture paying hommage to the "cubist", Juan Gris http://www.theartstory.org/artist-gris-juan.htm who stayed in the town in 1913 and 1921.
It was very pleasant sitting under the shade of the plane trees and chatting about international and local politics. Of course the subject of the terrorist attack on the Barcelona Ramblas came up though we hadn't yet heard of the one that came later in Cambrils.
Came back to the village for a last drink at the bar to take advantage of the cool of the night.
Weather:
35°, sun

16.8.17: Friends and Family

There is one less pair of shoes on the stairs as Pierre left after lunch to join his pals in Argelès . Maureen still in a bit of a huff so his departure hasn't helped. This evening Nancy and JJ came for dinner; Michel stopped by to say "hello" and have a glass of water. It was short and sweet as he was expecting friends to arrive and was off alcohol in an effort to fight the calories.
We had a good time though and ended the evening with a drink at the bar.
Weather:
31°, sun

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

Here comes Summer!

23.6.17: Keeping Tradition Alive

Did some admin until the internet went off so went for coffee with Nicole P.
After lunch, I gave the freezer a long overdue defrost. It was almost a pleasure to scrabble around in the cold when it was so hot outside. Once that was finished, I then set about trying to put the "pub" back in place after all the work that had been going on. It was also an opportunity to start getting rid of some of the clutter.
JJ came for a salad supper before we went down to the recreation ground for the "Feu de St Jean". The name belies the pagan origins of this fête which is still strong in North and South Catalunya. It's celebrated on the eve of the feast of St John, on the summer solstice. A bonfire is lit on the top of Mt Canigou and the flame brought down and taken to towns and villages to light their own fires. Here, some primary school chidren bring in the flame and then lots more and their parents carry lanterns around the village; the sardane is danced, young people jump over the embers of the bonfire and adults buy small bouquets made from 4 Catalan plants tied with a ribbon of "sang et or" stripes (colour of blood and gold). The bouquet should be tied to your door so that good luck and happiness is attracted to the house all year round. Last year's bouquet should be thrown onto the bonfire. The evening was rounded off with some pretty impressive fireworks, and an open air disco. Christian's "inner child" just  loved watching the fireworks and he would ooh and aah like a seven year old! And what's wrong with that, I say!
Of course, Nicole, my neighbour, gave us all mini faggots and a bouquet to decorate our doors; so, I've one on the outside and the one I bought, going into the kitchen. Let's hope that I have a double dose of all that's good, this year.
Weather:
34°, humid

Eating in, Eating out

26.5.17: Still on the Wagon

Oh, - - - - - ! The GP wants me to continue the antibiotics for another 3 months. what's more, I'm no cut out gluten and sugar. Sorry, not humanly possible. The gluten I think I'll manage but I'll no doubt cheat a little on the sugar. Luckily fruit is ok but it's all a bit drastic.
Am still putting off the tax return; this time with doing some tidying in the cave. There's just the pub to do but this heat isn't really conducive to a big clean up.
Went to have my fringe trimmed, walked to the museum to buy a bag made from cork as a present (it's a cork museum) but it was closed, toed and froed to the Mairie trying to arrange replacement rooms for the Spanish workshops. All this and it wasn't even 6pm.
Then there was a vernissage in Christian's room. The exhibition was of some lovely watercolours of seascapes.
There was of course, an apéritif but sadly, not so many people there to enjoy it.
Dropped into the bar when I came out where the village aging rock singer was to perform but I didn't stay long.
Weather:
23°, sun

25.5.17: Cooking for Friends
Today's the Ascension and a public holiday. Had coffee at the bar with Nicole P and Maryvonn and we were later (well, actually just as I was about to leave) joined by Ann and Terry. Stayed a bit longer and then went home to prepare for dinner with Viv and Pepe, Terry and Ann. Jean-Jacques had been coming but had had a better offer and gone off to Bordeaux. Well, who wouldn't?
I prepared some canapés, cooked chicken and chorizo and Ann brought an enormous fruit salad. Was a good evening. Should have taken a photo but didn't!
Weather:
32° sun

24.5.17: 2nd Sitting
Finally decided that it was time to take up the ashes as I don't think that a fire will be on the aganda until next winter. Come to think of it, not even then as I'm planning to put in a pellet burning stove.
Prepared a duck, mango and rice salad to take over to a buffet lunch at Eamon and Liz's. took the bus over but this time, there was no lift.
Weather:
30°, sun

23.5.17: Oops!

Another up and out morning; this time for my monthly blood test to make sure that my liver isn't suffering from the antibiotic I'm taking. Another lift was forthcoming, this time with Patrick. Zoomed around the supermarket, had coffee back in the village with Nicole P and then walked over to Pepe and Viv's for lunch. Oh dear, was my face red and not from the heat. The table was laid for 4 not 5 and there was a couple there whom I didn't know! That's right, I was there on the wrong day. Despite being invited to stay, I left my gift and scuttled home to find what I could in the fridge.
Lazed around this afternoon instead of doing my tax return and did some unimportant sorting out.
In the evening there was one of our regular "apérobio" get - togethers. Barbara was here from UK and wore me out enthusing about absolutely everything that came up in discussion.
Weather:
27°, blue skies

22.5.17: This and That
Association Committee meeting first thing and afterwards I organised replacement rooms for a displaced language workshop. Had coffee with Nicole P; Philippe joined us later and Jean-Jacques later again.
Worked at the computer and chickened out of going to a Council meeting.
Weather:
24° sun and rain in the afternoon

Doesn't Feel as if Much has been Happening but it has

29.3.17: So Far, So Good.
 Made it for the blood test, paid the electrician (gulp, gulp) and started to teach myself how to use "excel" on the computer. I know it will be hard for those of you in UK to imagine but I was able to access and print out my test results this evening. Pleased to say that this girl has a strong constitution; everything was normal. Just two more to go.
Weather:
22°, blue skies

28.3.17: Brain not in Gear

Should have gone for my blood test to check that the antibiotics that I'm taking aren't doing more harm than good. I was half way through my porridge when I remembered I needed to be "nil by mouth"! Luckily, I hadn't had a wasted journey by bus only to look stupid in front of the lab staff. So, instead, as there was no other excuse to hand, I walked round to the church for a funeral. Had coffee afterwards with Nicole and stayed for a lunch of steak and chips, a French favourite.
Nick came in the afternoon to put the Association website onto the upstairs computer, then it was Bruno to finalise the order for my new windows and then JJ for an apéritif. So strange not to be sharing a bottle of cava with him.
Weather:
19°, sun

27.3.17: Committee, Coffee and Computer
Association committee meeting first thing, coffee with Loli and work on the computer. Not a very interesting day but how nice it is to have a longer day. An unoriginal day with an unoriginal post title.
Weather:
17°, sunny

26.3.17: You Win Some, You Lose Some

The clocks changed last night so there was less time to linger in bed. As usual, I went for a coffeee to the bar. All was pretty quiet and Françoise didn't even go on about our lack of discipline. Eve wasn't very happy as she only did 3 meals in the evening and "Tio, Tio" went by the other bar but not hers. Oops!
Had lunch outside with Nicole S and Patricia and in an effort to show some solidarity, I opted for the lasagne which had been on last night's menu even though I knew it wasn't going to be that good. How did I know? Well, I've had it before and it was very dry. Took the precaution of asking for ketchup to go with it which puzzled Eve. It helped a bit.
In the evening the three of us and Yasmin went to a Gospel Concert which wasn't very good either. Afterwards we went to a local bar where we joined, Liz (Hortense's friend), Helle and two other Norwegians. Helle is due to go into hospital next week for breast surgery so there was a lot of support current and promised.
Weather:
Sunny but feeling a bit chilly

25.3.17: Doing the Rounds

Didn't go to the market as I needed to save my energy for this afternoon's carnival. Yaneth and Lisa had come down from Paris especially for the event. Did lunch for them along with JJ. Kept it simple: pasta with a smoked salmon sauce, salad, cheese and strawberries.
Luckily for us, the cloud gave way to sun so twice around the village went well; well, that is apart for Martine. She fell over, landing on the hand that had recently been operated on but as if that wasn't enough, a large bloke who went to help her up, fell as well landing on top of her. End result, a wrist fractured in two places. Otherwise, the rest of us had a lot of fun on the way round even if RSM Françoise kept trying to lick us into shape! Like last year, we won 1st prize and just as the winners (in fact everyone received a prize) were being announced, the rain came on so Nicole and I went down to the bar for a tea.
Didn't do "Tio, Tio", a tradition where folk dress up like Wee Willie Winkies and process at dusk with candles to burn the King of the Carnival. This year, he bore a remarkable resemblance to Donald Trump. I just went up to the village hall to listen to the Banda and to have an apéritif. Settled for a coke which was absolutely awful. I'll stick to water until I can have a cava.
Weather:
Cloud, sun, rain