Highlight of the Year!

 Off to the Basque Country 

 15.6.21: Started from home at 9am. Coffee stop just before Toulouse and lunch off the autoroute in Pau.  Arrived at our airbnb studio flat in St Jean de Luz at 4pm. Modern and absolutely fine. Following a wind down after the stresses of the route, we set off on the 10 minute walk ( Martine has short legs) via the small port to explore the old town (including the church of St John the Baptist where Louis XIV was married) followed by a strolll along the prom. Lots of independent shops, tourist shops and eating places. Ended up at the Basque Tavern where we had a reasonable meal and friendly chat with our neighbours who were down from the Lot. He rears ducks and was passionate about his job; his wife works in a (upmarket, I imagine) clothes shop.

Weather: 30°, (35° at home), sunny

16.6.21: Off we went for the short drive to Espelette, where the red peppers come from. It goes into everything! Even the outside of the houses are decorated with strings of them. Fell lucky as the market was on. The food market was interesting with its locally produced offerings, especially the Basque sheep's cheese. Very tempting but not the best idea to have it sitting all day in the car. Stayed for a coffee and then went on to Itxassou, a much smaller village for a walk around. We found a Fronton, used for playing the Basque game 'Pelote' in the centre and were amazd by the sight of over 20 black kites flying overhead. We didn't see however, anywhere that grabbed us for lunch so we carried on to Cambo where there are thermal baths catering for people who come ( thanks to the health service) for a 3 week "cure". This one deals with respiratory problems and rhumatism. Luxuriant grounds and a restaurant, the " Pavillion Bleu" open to the public. Sadly for us, they were fully booked but the receptionist suggested " le Chipito" in the town. A much simpler affair but we both enjoyed our well garnished salads. After lunch we wandered into the little park next door; me to write some postcards, Martine for a snooze.

 

Came home and after a a reviving cuppa we went back into the town to explore another part of St Jean. Walked a fair bit and decided to try Paxaran, a Spanish (Navarre) Basque sloe brandy apėritif albeit an early one, it only being 17h. Walked some more, ending up on the Place Louis XIV, where his house is now the Mairie by the port, for rosé and tapas. Made it home early was the area is on an amber storm alert.

 Weather: 33° (32° at home) very hot

17.6.91: It rained heavily in the night and there was unimpressive thunder and lightning in the distance however first thing the rain was off. Even though we knew the rain would be back, set off anyway for St Sebastian (aka Donostia) over the border. Found an underground parking by the 5* Hotel Marie Christina. Pretty imposing. Walked along the footpath looking down on the sea where from time to time people were taken by surprise by the crashing waves. Of course the camera was never in the right place at the right time to capture the spectacular images! 

Gave the climb up Mt Igueldo a miss as did everyone else. After a coffee we contented ourselves with wandering through the old town taking in 19th century Constitution Square with its numbered windows; the numbers above each one of the windows of the houses were in a previous life the bullring boxes from where you could watch the bullfights, the covered market, Santa Maria church with the most amazing 18th Neapolitan creche. Found a pinxos (tapas) bar, the Taverna Alatar, for lunch after which we wandered some more, this time down to the sheltered marina and on to the Good Shepherd church but didn't go in. By this time it was raining more heavily so we decided to head home by way of the motorway. 

Took advantage of a dry interval to go to the local superette to buy in some provisions for our supper as going out was not on the cards. Thus we had the opportunity to drink the bottle of cava I'd brought and to try a Gâteau Basque. In the end up we didn't eat what we'd bought as we'd tucked in to too many savoury biscuits.

Weather: 21°, clammy. Rain more on than off. Heavy at times.

18.6.21:The day brightened up as it progressed which was just as well as we were scheduled to visit Bayonne. When we finally got there (slow moving traffic) we started off with a  coffee at the Café du Théatre and then wandered around this very pleasant historic town ~ river, timbered buildings, Notre Dame, a 13th century church, fort, arcades and narrow streets. Had lunch at Café Chala after which we hit the road for the long drive back having the misfortune to hit Toulouse at rush hour. Arrived home at about 19h15. Tired but glad to be back sleeping in my own bed.

 Weather: 31° overcast on arrival, 24° (Bayonne), sunny

Autumn is a coming!

 21.9.20 - 27.9.20: Equinox came and went

Did some entertaining chez moi this week. An apéritif for Jean and Françoise (23rd) and tea for Jeanne, the American who is immersed in the complications of buying a house in the village (25th). Involving rather more work was a farewell dinner for David and Laura. On the menu was Lemon Cinammon Pork served with couscous and toasted almonds followed by a seriously good "Torte Royale"; chocolate laced with strong coffee and Tia Maria. An adult cake that's rich and dark so, if that's your thing you won't be disappointed. Went even farther on the over-indulgence scale by serving it with marscapone pepped up with Tia Maria. If that's a step too far for you, no worries, the torte is very moist and doesn't actually need anything else. https://www.thatslife.com.au/torte-royal  Even though we were joined by Jacques and JJ (Michel couldn't come) I'm not ashamed to say that I was delighted that there was some left for me to have with my afternoon cuppa during the week!

Other coffee breaks were taken at the café with the folk who no

longer go to the Language exchange (24rd), Françoise on 25th and 26th and with Michel and his visitors, Claude and Françoise (27th). It became progressively windier and colder, so by the Sunday we were the only ones to brave the terrace. Sweaters, jackets and shoes have replaced tee shirts and sandals; smiles replaced by gritted teeth and hunched shoulders!

There was an escape from the village on 23rd with a trip down to Argeles with Lynne and though quite breezy, the sun was warm and a walk around the marina and along the sea front was enjoyable. Of course, there was a lunch stop overlooking the sea. We went with "Les Planches" where Lynne had already eaten. Shame the waiter was somewhat offhand. Even with a mask on, the feeling came through. https://www.les-planches-argeles.com/carte-restaurant-les-planches/

 Lunch at the village restaurant the next day with Hortense was so much better and cheaper. She was impressed with the  quality and ceativity of the food, the service and the relaxed atmosphere which lent itself to our long conversations.

The market on Saturday was less jovial than usual due to the strong wind and fewer folk going about their shopping. Still, the weekend was not without its pleasurable moments in the company of others. After - lunch coffee at Michel's and Sunday lunch of roast chicken back there meant that I had a break from organising my photos and watching tv. An added bonus was that there was no need to cook anything. A boiled egg sufficed.

Weather: Temperatures dropped from 25° on Monday to 16° on Sunday; the sky became more and more cloudy bringing some rain showers which even 3 days of very strong winds didn't blow away.

Making the most of the sunny days

 11.9.20 - 17.9.20: Making up for "lost time"

Luckily, my test came back negative as the next morning there was a trip to the Opthalmologist in preparation for my cataract operation. Jacques was kind enough to take me which was just as well as the bus times have changed and not for the better. Getting to Perpignan is going to be more of a hassle than usual.

Time drifts by at a leisurely pace with a few islands of activity along the way. The market on Saturday was lively as village Associations were also on the square recruiting new members accompanied by some music. Lunch time Jacques came to the rescue once again by treating Nicole and I to tapas at the restaurant. Back to the café on Sunday to meet Martine for coffee and later Jacques joined us for an apéro before giving us lunch at his place. Only just had enough time to knock up some flapjacks to take to my neighbour, Françoise's. She'd invited her neighbours for an apéritif dinatoir before her return to the North of France. Lots of nice things to eat and drink. The photo doesn't show all as 6 more adults and two children joined us. There's no rule of 6 here! 

My next trip past the front door was on Wednesday when I went for a routine blood test (all fine) and to meet Hortense for a catch up. Hadn't see her since the beginning of February so throats were dry by the end. Also managed to have a good chat with Henri on my way past another café so I'm back in the good books for not having been in touch. Out again this morning for a coffee with Nicole and was later joined by the Thursday group. Was busily tapping away updating Chitchat this afternoon when Françoise invited me to join her and Jean for an apéro down in Argelès. 20 minutes later we were on our way! See, I can do impromptu.

The rest of the time, I've kept up my treadmill sessions and am now up to an incline of 6 at a speed of 5.8 km/hr. Just imagine the smug smile. Less palatable as I can't watch an episode of my latest series fix while I work, was getting the middle cave cleared for David to take all the rubbish to the tip. Don't recognise myself!

Weather: Warm sunny days of 31°

18.9.20 -20.9.20: More like old times

A warm sunny weekend with plenty going on.  There was a vernissage on Friday with some easy on the eye paintings; watercolours , charcoal and oils by two different artists. Nicole, Martine, Carmen and I didn't linger too long, prefering to go down to the café for an apéritif. After a while we went off in search of something to eat and ended up in a pleasant square with a fountain. 

Saturday, there was music at the market which meant that more people lingered at the café to soak up the atmosphere. Well, all except JJ who'd invited some of us (Jean, Françoise, Martine and Carmen) for a fish dinner that evening.

An early start on Sunday meant that there wasn't any time to get on the treadmill but I well and truly bypassed the recommended 10,000 steps with all the walking during the day. Jacques had invited David, Laura and myself to Guissan where he has a chalet (on stilts) by the sea. En route we stopped off at the picturesque village of Peyriac for a coffee, some exploration and to see the flamingoes which disappointingly weren't pink but white. From there we carried on along the coast to Bages, another

pretty place with medieval streets and a view over the sea. By the time we arrived in Guissan, we could only look in at the house and set off for lunch at "Le Sarment". Spent a good part of the afternoon wandering through the village where there was a craft fair on and climbing up to Red Beard's tower. Back at the chalet Laura and I opted for deck chairs on the terrace while the blokes went off to swim. The only other thing to do before pointing the car in the direction of home was to stop off at the salt flats and contribute to the local eceonomy in the shop where salt came in a variety of flavours and packaging. Home with no need to eat and no need to feel guilty about flopping in front of the tv having had our fair share of fresh sea air and exercise. Good feelings all round. 

Weather: 27°, sunny

What happened to November?

26.10.19 - 23.11.19:

Well, I was recuperating in UK after such a hectic time. The last few months had been stressful and I was so pleased not to have any obligations and time to just chill out. Main thing was spending time with family, especially my Mum who was celebrated her 90th and as you would expect, is getting frailer.
Did some shopping in Stratford and Banbury, made regular trips on foot into the town for a coffee. The Bower House has taken over from The George as the "go to" place. Using the loo is a real treat; you're entertained with people like Richard Burton and Judi Dench reciting from Shakespeare. Have to admit that it came as a bit of a surprise the first time round.
Caught up with a number of friends too. Spent a couple of days with Mary on arrival, with Jean and John on departure and with Karen who I missed the last time I was over. Margaret and Irene came down from Leicestershire for a lunch at the tapas bar and Jen came for a few days. Luckily, we took note of the forecast and spent a dry, sunny day at Batsford park.http://www.batsarb.co.uk/ The autumn colours were magnificent. Find the photos at https://photos.app.goo.gl/zwb5YVCqeF36WCCc6
There was even a couple of musical evenings; "That'll be the day" in Leamington, https://www.thatllbetheday.com/show-history a 1920's Swing band https://vitalityfive.com/ and music at the micro pub in the town http://www.thirstedition.co.uk/.
Weather was as you would expect and then more some. The river where Jill lives flooded and even featured on the tv news.
It was lovely not only being out and about with Jill but also "cosy" time at home with a glass of cava in front of the telly. And of course catching up with the nephews, neices and the little ones was a plus.
Find more photos at https://photos.app.goo.gl/f2CWUXeKkZqTy4g7A

23.11.19 - 24.11.19:
Martine came to Barcelona airport to pick me up even though she had a bad cough. We spent the evening in Sitges in a modern, comfortable hotel overlookibg the sea. https://www.hotelcalipolis.com/hotel/conoce-el-hotel/ The weather was lovely and the place animated and full of interesting architecture. Look forward to going back. Find the photos at
 https://photos.app.goo.gl/R3AHfQfBdAht5aeU7

Family, Friends and Football

9.6.19 - 14.6.19:

Next phase of my trip came as I moved from Lower to Upper Normandy to spend some time with family and friends. Lots of time spent sitting and talking around some table or another. No complaints there, of course.
I also did some walking around Le Havre dodging the rain and went to a Women's World Cup match (England v Argentina) along with 20, 251 other spectators. No complaints there either.
You know the routine; follow the link to see the photos.
 https://photos.app.goo.gl/RwJPn78NNBbCA3g28

Days Out, Evenings in

 You'll find a few more photos here https://photos.app.goo.gl/egDsP46SAhU62iXz8

10.3.19:

No Sunday lie in. Had to be up and out for just after 9am to go to Collioure with Jean and Françoise. The sun was out and a warm day was in view.

Walked around the market and along the sea wall before meeting up with J and F's daughter, two grand children and their friend JM at the Templiers for coffee.

As I'd forgotten to take something out of the freezer for lunch and fancied a glass of wine on the terrace of the bar, I took the notion to eat there. Sat myself where I could benefit from the sunshine only to have to move as it was too hot!

Came home for a cuppa and allowed myself just one episode of "Secret City" before working at the computer.

Another visit to Oz where political intrigue was rife and to Midsomer where the storyline was so mind numbing that I fell asleep and missed the end!

Weather:

21°, sun, blue sky, cloud later

9.3.19:

Went off to the market with Jacques and met up with Jean and Françoise for coffee. Then it was lunch at Kathy's out in the sunshine.

This evening, I left the States to head down under to "Secret City" which is turning out to be a "just one more" kind of series.

Weather:

22, sun, blue sky and a little cloud

8.3.19:

Oh, what fun! An early start to clean ready to receive JJ, Henri and Michèle for an apéro before going to the restaurant for lunch.

We got off to a good start when Henri knocked a full glass of wine into JJ's lap causing him to bolt home to change.

Duty called for JJ so there were only the 3 of us for coffee at the bar, well, until Michel stopped on his way over to the Mairie. How enjoyable it was in the sun.

Did a bit of this and a bit of that and before I knew it, it was time to meet Nicole P at the other bar. Just one glass then home for a bowl of soup and an early night.

Weather:

17°, sun, cloud later

7.3.19:

Put in a very brief appearance at the Language Exchange after doing a bit of work on the computer and before meeting Nicole to go to Figueres.

There were far fewer stalls there than usual and while it was pleasing to see an array of light colours after winter blacks and greys, nothing caught our eye.

Had a very long lunch at Aroma Café and drove home via the supermarket avoiding a serious cloud burst. https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Restaurant_Review-g315921-d8367907-Reviews-Aroma_Cafe-Figueres_Province_of_Girona_Catalonia.html

Weather:

16°, sun, cloud, rain

6.3.19:

Jacques had a rehearsal for St Patrick's night so we had to delay our trip to Collioure. Once again we were on a mission for "Operation Bagpipes".

Decided on a restaurant, walked their route but still need to sort out parking for the bus. Apparently, there's a drop off fee of 20€!

Had lunch at " Les Templiers" https://hotel-templiers.com/index.php/fr/# and visited Machado's grave; both a first for Jacques. Like many other people he thought that he was Catalan but in fact he was born in Andalucia. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/antonio-machado

This pleasant escape to the sea was followed by screen time at home and bed at 3am after finishing season 2 of Designated Survivor. Now there's a wait until season 3 is launched. Patience, patience!

Weather:

19°, a sun, cloud, wind

5.3.19:

Started the day with an extra thought for Christian. It would have been his birthday.

Was good to do the kind of thing that we would have enjoyed doing together. Those of you who know us will guess that it would involve discovering a new village and a good lunch. Today it was Calmeilles, a pretty little village of 30 people in a Commune of 65 complete with its own Mairie. It's little "Bistro de Pays" called "La Cisteil" (Catalan for  basket) served up good, simple fresh food. https://www.facebook.com/lecisteil/

A walk through the cork trees, at 600m afforded miles of super views.

Managed to get back in time to go straight to a book signing of Antonio Machado ....., a Spanish poet who fled to France in 1939 and is buried in Collioure. His tomb has become a place of "pilgrimage"; people leave objects on and around it and also leave

letters in the letterbox by the side of it. Post is also delivered there. Just imagine the address.

The presentation went on to discuss the "Retirada" and was followed by an apéritif.

Scenery, good food, the company of friends, culture, history and sunshine. What's not to like?

Weather:

18°, sun and blue sky

4.3.19:

Worked on the website, hit the treadmill and roamed the corridors of power with the Designated Survivor.

Finally put my nose outside for the first time at 5pm to set up the welcome apéritif for new members of the association. About 20 of us chatted, mixed and mingled. Then it was home for a cuppa and back to Washington.

Weather:

15°, overcast

3.3.19:

For the first half hour of coffee time I was all own my own. The others were either in the other bar, celebrating Granny's Day or lazing in bed. Finally, Rosie, Jo and Lynne turned up so unusually it was an all Brit affair. Stayed until it was time to walk over to Maggie and Trevor's for lunch. Nick and Lizzie arrived by bike, Terry and Ann by car.

We enjoyed a good long lunch which had guinea fowl as the main course. The walk back helped ease the guilty conscience!

Weather:

16°, sun and some cloud

2.3.19:

Decided against going to the market, preferring to meet Nicole for coffee. The bar was cheerless and Jean Louis more interested in reading his rugby magazine that doing his job.

Went to Céret under my own steam even though I'd had offers of a lift from my two gallants to go earlier. Arrived in time for lunch at Henri and Michelle's and as you know, there's no such thing as a free lunch ......

Spent a long time transferring the birthday photos and sending them on to family. Really must learn how to create zip files.

Spent the evening in the usual way though gave myself a break from "Reign" about Mary Queen of Scots and fast forwarded 500 years to get to know the "Designated Survivor".

Weather:

18°, sun cloud later in the day

1.3.19:

Made an overdue visit to the hairdressers and then met Hortense for an overdue coffee.

After lunch, had an overdue session on the treadmill.

The evening started with a Twinning meeting; I couldn't resist getting up from the table to take this photo. Business done, Martine and I headed for the bar, right next door for a glass of rosé. Finished the day with , yes, you've got it, a box set.

Weather:

18°, sun and blue sky

Family Visit N°1

24.10.18:

All too soon it was time for my visitors to take to the road again to visit other family members in Limoux and Toulouse. Still, it was great to see them and I really appreciate the effort  that make to come.
Wasn't alone for too long though as Nicole came around to let off steam. Didn't bother with coffee, something stronger was needed. We went straight for a couple of glasses of cava making lunch somewhat later than usual.
Weather:
23° sun and cloud

23.10.18:

Joined the family for a day out in Roses over the border. A pleasant walk along the prom to have a coffee overlooking the sea, then continued to the marina where we had a beer. Turned around and walked back again in search of lunch. Many places were closed and we finally settled on the "Restaurant Panaoramic" which was well situated. The food though was the usual tourist stuff.
https://www.tripadvisor.fr/ShowUserReviews-g262060-d7722687-r599501167-Restaurant_panoramic-Roses_Costa_Brava_Province_of_Girona_Catalonia.html
Tanguy was the only one brave enough to get in the water; Christophe and Valérie had a short siesta and I read in the shade.
Stopped off at the shopping mall on the way back where once again I found a comfy place to read while the others parted with their cash.
Weather:
25°, sun

22.10.18:
The kids went off and I pottered around and tried out a Jaimie recipe that I'd never done before. Changed the tapenade for pesto but still felt it needed a bit more of a "kick".
https://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/fish-recipes/one-pan-fabulous-fish/
Weather:
22°, sun

21.10.18:

Coninued preparations for the the arrival of my Norman family. Did find time, however, to have a coffee at the bar. Once their bags were unloaded and we'd had a cuppa and catch up, Christophe and Valérie were itching to stretch their legs. We ended up doing a 7km walk up into the hills outside the village. Gorgeous views though by the time we made it back, the clocks having changesd last night, it was already dark. Stopped off at the bar for an apéro then it was back home to prise the boys away from their tablets.
Weather:
26°, sunny

Sister Time

6.10.18 - 16.10.18

What a bonus! After nearly a week staying with my lovely little sister, she came to stay with me. Meals with friends, coffeee at the bar, jaunts to the sea and for the last few days, a lazy time with our feet up drinking cava and over dosing on "Black List" box set. https://photos.app.goo.gl/tPDNF38g4ANsShSK7

2Vs escape the routine

14.6.18: Pleasure continued
https://photos.app.goo.gl/qtP5A1MHb8A8wr1c7 
Had a good breakfast overlooking the sea on the terrace of the hotel, checked out and walked along the coastal path to Calella de Palafuguel. http://www.catalonia-valencia.com/calella-de-palafrugell-travel-guide-41-things.html
It was so warm that we both treated ourselves to some lighter clothes more in keeping with the holiday mood and lack of rain! On the way back we stopped off at the Hotel Torré for a drink, once again with a sea view from a comfortable settee.
Next came the winding road up to "El Far", the hotel/restaurant next to the St Sebastian lighthouse, watch tower and 6th century B.C. Iberian village.https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/spain/catalonia/costa-brava/llafranc/hotels/el-far-hotel-restaurant/
Of course, we'd planned our morning to arrive here in time for

lunch. The menu du jour was only 20€ with wine; an absolute snip. It's been this price for as long as I can remember. Yes, it was a favourite of Christian and mine, especially when we had visitors. Some of you will no doubt remember it.
Returned home without stopping, via La Bisbal which is known for its ceramics until we reached Pont de Molins where we made a detour to the Escaules waterfall, another first for Martine. I was surprised to find that the small restaurant had closed down but pleased that the waterfall which was in full flow after the abundance of the recent rain was still accessible.
Back in Pont de Molins, we stopped off at the village café for a cuppa and laughed to see the catalan symbol to free the "politcal prisoners" floating on the river. You can see it in the album above.
Home for an evening with my feet up, feeling that all was well.
Weather:
29°, sun and blue skies

13.6.18: Sheer pleasure
Nicole is away so there were only two "veuves" (widows) to set off to the Costa Brava. An over night in the Casamar Hotel with its Michelin star restaurant in Llfranc was our destination. https://hotelcasamar.net/en It was so, so goooood!
Martine didn't know it at all and was not disappointed; I'd been to this small seaside town several times and Christian and I had often spoken about doing an overnight there but sadly, had never gotten around to it. He would have loved every minute. No, I exaggerate; there was may be a bit too much walking for his taste! The dinner, however, would have been as much of a pleasure for him as it was for us. Seemed expensive at first sight (52€ without wine) but at the end we were both of the opinion that it was worth every single euro.

Still, before arriving there, we stopped off in Pals for coffee and a walk around this hilltop medieval village http://www.catalonia-valencia.com/pals-spain-travel-guide.html and in Begur where the market was on; had a walk and then a tapas lunch. https://www.spainthisway.com/places/begur.php
After checking in and a short rest, we set off to walk along the prommenade and partake of a bottle of cava overlooking the sea. We sat on a comfortable settee and took two hours to drink it interspersing sips with comments about the beauty of where we were and how well we were enjoying getting away from the daily routine.
Returned to walk along the prom after dinner before heading to bed with the promise of another day of pure pleasure to come.
Weather:
28°, warm and sunny

A Full On Day

2.6.17: Bells, Bagpipes and Copper Pots

Heavens, it was an early start after a short night. Rendezvous at 7h45 and on the bus ready to leave at 8h. Some of our hosts were with us for the visit in the morning to Villedieu les Poêles where we first visited a bell foundry of international renown. Bells have been made here since the Middle Ages, though today's foundry only dates from the 19th century. About 100 bells of all sizes are made to order every year, including the new bell for Notre Dame de Paris in 2013. There were several bells in the courtyard and the sound when they were struck could make the hair on your arms stand on end. Oh, how I wish we could change the tinny one we have in the village for something with some resonance.
After that we chugged up the hill to a copper workshop, in existence since the 18th century, where we saw a film, admired but couldn't afford the pots, pans, bath and other items, all along being entertained and informed by the guide. Quite a character to say the least who held his audience in the palm of his hand. Then it was back down the hill again through this rather prosperous looking and well kept town. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villedieu-les-Po%C3%AAles
All this listening and walking makes a body hungry so the thought of lunch at the "Fruitier" restaurant was a welcome one. What's more, I can tell you that while the hotel didn't look out of the ordinary from the outside, the private room where we dined brought more that a few sharp intakes of breath. Stylish to say the least. http://www.le-fruitier.com/fr/groupes-loisirs
Journeying along the coast to Granville, a smart coastal resort where we spent the afternoon, we could make out Mont St Michel in the distance through the haze. http://www.francethisway.com/places/granville.php
Mme the General, ie, Françoise, and I wandered through the town, bought postcards, drank tea and remembered that Christian Dior was born here in 1905, rather than scamper around in the heat (yes, Normandy was warm and sunny), looking at historical monuments.
Once back in Bretteville, a surprise awaited us as we descended from the bus ..... a piper playing "Scotland the Brave" was there to greet us! Goes without saying, I just loved it.
There was just enough time for a much needed cuppa chez Agnes before going to one of the town's halls for dinner with our hosts.
Weather:
Warm and Sunny

A Long Overdue Visit

12.10.16: Our Condolences, M'am

Went into Céret for a stroll around, had a coffee, finished strolling and bumped into Hortense and had another coffee. Mum will be pleased to see from the photo  that her jacket is still doing sterling service. Yes, it was a bit chilly.
Came home for lunch and prepared dinner for Jean-Jacques and Michel. Ken and Margaret had cried off, both having heavy colds. We'd had the date in the diary for ages so it was a bit disappointing but on the other hand with all Ken's no go foods, it was also a bit of a relief. Served up my ever faithful chicken in tomato and pernod sauce. 
We were much exercised  however by the news that the Queen was inconsolable by the passing of a loved one; we immediately thought "Philip" only to find it was one of her dogs! Beggars belief that this was a news story on my French  "Orange" homepage. You'll be relieved to know that conversation moved up a few notches after we'd fantasised about sending her a sympathy card.
Weather:
19° , sun, cloud, heavy rain in the evening

 11.10.16: Washing the Floor with Cava

With the barometer set to fair we decided to head down the coast only to fing that getting out of the garage was going to be difficult. A lorry was parked up (no sign of workers) so instead of going down the street, Bernadette was forced to do some nifty manoevering to get out and go up the street instead. Pretty stressful in a hired car. Those of you who've negotiated this narrow street will be in sympathy, I'm sure. Anyway patience and good pedal control got us away without a scratch or bump.
Drove down to Banyuls and had coffee overlooking the sea and then came back to Paullilles for a visit to the site of the old Nobel explosives factory. Won't go into details though if you're interested you an read the 26th September post. This time I climbed the watch tower and was rewarded with fine views. 
Lunch beckoned so we continued back toward Port Vendres and had a good, honest  meal at "Le Chalut". Next to us were a Bulgarian/Czech couple who apparently have a holiday home Céret. He was desperate to chat, she (very glam) took forever to move her bag from where Bernadette was to sit and looked at us with out cracking a smile which was more hostile than her lack of English or French would account for. Oh, how we speculated about who they were!
We'd hoped to see "The Belem", a three masted training ship while we there but it was hard luck for us that it was out at sea and not due back until late afternoon. Contented ourselves instead with a walk around Collioure (or Collimore as Lena, Bernadette's Mum called it when she was here).
Came back for tea  at which point I read my emails to find that Françoise was expecting us for an apéritf in 20 minutes time! Thérèse came too so she and Bernadette exchanged language assistant stories. The title of this post refers to Jean having to mop up the bottle of cava that ended up on the floor. Don't ask!
Weather:
20°, sun, high cloud and some wind

10.10.16 : A Wind Down Day

Back to the treadmill after the weekend break and once Berndette was up and about we went to the bar for a coffee where we were joined by Linde. More exercise after lunch with a double circuit of the two lakes. Spent the evening in.
Weather:
20°, sun and light cloud

The Sun Continues to Shine

11.8.16: Musical Chairs

Had to get myself moving this morning as I was responsible for the language exchange. As usual, headed straight for the café at the end for a glass of rosé.
Just fritted away the time in the afternoon and then went back over in the evening to listen to music. Nicole P didn't arrive so I found myself joining Nicole V, Jim and Mags and Yasmin . Was later joined by friend, Margaret's son Tomas and his partner, Sarah who are here on holiday. It's nice to have some young, energetic company. Karin and Jurgen then took up the seats that the British crowd left and oh dear, the former was the worse for wear. She confided that she had lots on her plate so it seems there's another woman needing support.

10.8.16: Nowt!
 Coffee with Yasmin. Backed up more photos and cleaned some copper. What a sad state of affairs when I find such mundanity of note!
Weather:
27°, sun and wind

9.8.16: Mediterranean Delights

Went into town on the bus to meet Anne (or Golden Anne, as Mum calls her) for a coffee. Lots to tell me about the flat that she and her fella have just bought in Cyprus. Had a lift home with Marylyse and Domi.
This evening JJ, Jean and Françoise came for an apéritif . For their delictation :
Gazpacho topped with chorizo, chopped green peppers and hard boiled egg
Beetroot Dip with toasted Cumin and Sesame Seeds with Rcotta and Chives accompanied by crisps and bread sticks
Chick Peas, tuna cream with preserved lemon, gherkins and basil verrine
Cherry Tomatoes
Smoked Salmon on Cream Cheese Toasts
Tortilla
Warm Figs and Goat's Cheese
Cava and Pineau de Charente
Yes, I know people always pour scorn on bloggers who report on what they eat and drink as being of no interest but this is an aide memoire for me, so I shall continue; you dear reader are not forced to read it! xxx
Weather:
28°, sun

8.8.16: So long, Marianne
It was hot last night which made sleeping difficult though today's breeze helps a little. Met Nicole P for a coffee then spent the afternoon putting my photos onto an external disc as the laptop is about to give up on me. Time consuming but needs must.
This evening the Mairie put on a film in the open air. Typical summer box office success but it didn't tempt me to do more than wander over at the interval to say "hello" to a few folk.
Oh dear! That's two nights in a row that I've not made an effort to participate. I'll need to keep an eye on myself.
Weather:
32°, sun
News:

Reports of Marianne's death came in. She who inspired Leonard Cohen's song of the same name. Remember hearing it for the first time when I was at Uni and was hooked.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZI6EdnvH-8
His letter to her just before she lost consciousness was reported in the press etc. It's so beautiful but that's  not surprising as Lenny is nothing if not a poet.
It said, "well Marianne it’s come to this time when we are really so old and our bodies are falling apart and I think I will follow you very soon. Know that I am so close behind you that if you stretch out your hand, I think you can reach mine."
“And you know that I’ve always loved you for your beauty and your wisdom, but I don’t need to say anything more about that because you know all about that. But now, I just want to wish you a very good journey. Goodbye old friend. Endless love, see you down the road.”
It was reported that she actually did stretch out her hand.

7.8.16: lunching and Lazing
Usual Sunday gathering at the café for our Sunday coffeee: 3 Nicoles, Rosie and Françoise. Stayed for a lunch of steak and veg (resisted the chips) then came home to iron and watch tv. Didn't bother going back for the music as this hot weather is really an energy zapper.
Weather:
32°, sun

6.8.16: tapas overlooking the Sea

went into the bank as my code has not yet arrived. a second request was sent even though the first one was supposed to have been sent on 29th. Met up with Françoise over coffee and then went for the 11am bus but .... isn't there always a but? The 11am bus has now become the 12.10pm bus. Not wanting to hang around until then, I went in search of a lift from Nick and Lizzie. They were just about to leave so for once my luck was in.
More chores and then unexpectedly, Françoise phoned to invite me down to Argelès for a stroll and apéritif overlooking the marina. Now, that's what I call a just reward!
Every summer there are large panels showing photos relating to flora, fauna, landscapes and people. This year the theme was "des hommes et des îles". Great! A bit of culture, a bit of exercise then a bit of relaxation. Tapas and apéros by way of a belated birthday treat.
On coming back to the village, even though it was about 10pm, I wasn't ready to sleep so put in an appearance at the disco that was going on at the park. Joined Rosie who was on her own; drank some rosé, chatted a lot and even danced a bit.
Weather:
31° sunny, still windy

5.8.16: Photos and Politics

Bit of a later start this morning; must have been a reaction to yesterday's cleaning!  As always went for a coffee and met up with Martine, JJ and his house guests. Spent the afternoon doing more chores.
This evening it was back to JJ's along with Jean and Françoise but before heading over, we took time to visit the latest exhibition in Christian's room. On show were photos of urban /industrial objects. I particular these two. In case you can't work it out, one is of tyres, the other is a view up the inside of a pylon.
This time it was Yaneth who organised the meal and everyone contributed to the conversation which of course revolved around politics both at a local and national level!
Weather:
29°, sunny, Tramontane blowing.