Célébrations dans Dégagnac!

A day of celebration. 

Sometime today many years ago I "Madame Pat" was born, I will say it was much later than the date "1684-18 Avril" inscribed on this ancient door that we found in the village today!"

A long, leisurely lunch that was two and a half hours in length was enjoyed at the local Auberge. 

Aperitifs...followed by a delicious soup, then choice of starters, main course of ham steak dinner, dessert and wine.

A starter of Pâte, cornichons and salad.

Pickled herring salad plate.

Dessert.

After lunch, I joined Madame M for a walk...we agreed it would be a short one today...but it turned out that we walked for an hour and three quarters....much longer than planned.

Madame M and I had discussed possibly attending a Gourmet Walk this coming Sunday... we realized that we were not ready to master the 18.7km walk that is being held this weekend..it would have been interesting and similar to a progressive dinner party with different courses being served at stops along the way .  

We concluded we must continue with our walking regiment to build our stamina and realize our goal of one day attempting the Santiago de Compostale pilgrimage walk.

Plenty of spring flowers were photographed today.

The moment we realized that we are not ready for anything more than ten to twelve kilometres on any one day...

Wisteria in the Jardin Bourain" ...teaching garden

Wisterias nearing the end.

Japanese Irises

A beautiful climbing rose.

More wisteria.

Lily of the Valley

Water flowing rapidly in the stream.

Heading back downhill now....

Plan d'eau

Ready for a picnic!

Some birthday treats!

"Un certain ... Regard."

On the plane tree-lined boulevard in Gourdon, you will find this most fantastic store...

"Un certain ... Regard"

In English, the literal translation is "a certain look" which you will definitely find here.

This beautifully decorated and organized store on two floors/ levels provides wonderful items to decorate your home, distinctive gifts, and they also provide full service interior design and decorating.

The owners and staff are very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful.

This shop is well worth a visit.

Un certain ... Regard

37, boulevard Mainiol

Gourdon, 46300

The photos require no description and speak for themselves.

Do you see anything of interest? 

www.certainregard.fr

Belgian Treats

This week, we've travelled to another European country without even leaving the comforts of the cottage.

Our new friends, Madame M and Monsieur Guy returned Sunday evening from a couple weeks stay away, visiting family and attending a special day for their grandson in their home country of Belgium.

They arrived at our door bearing a bag full of treats.

Eating the fresh baked raisin bread transported me back to my parents' homeland. 

I may be biased but I believe that the Belgian bakers make the best raisin bread.

We also have some delicious "Traditionele Speculaas" cookies to enjoy with a coffee, and some Hoegaarden Grand Cru beer that is made near their hometown in Belgium.

All this for just doing the neighbourly thing of watering their gardens and checking the mailbox while they were away...totally not necessary but very much appreciated.

Thank you Madame M and Monsieur Guy.....

 "Welcome Back!"