The traditional thing to eat is a galette, which is a sort of almond tart with flaky pastry , and topped with a gold paper crown, although there are other varieties. The tart has a small token inside, rather like a sixpence in a Christmas pudding. Whoever gets the token is king or queen for the day.
We have been given slices of homemade galette by our neighbour and had some more at the first gathering of the year - the AGM of the UNRPA - the union for the old and retired. First we register with the Union for the year and pay our fee. This is followed by an AGM and finally, the bun fight with the galette and apéros.
In mid January, the mayor and counsellors entertain the village and there is usually a good turnout.
First we are welcomed, then there is a 'state of the village' speech and finally drinks and apéros prepared by a local traiteur.
The third gathering of the month was the annual (free) lunch provided by the village for the elderly. As John had his 65th birthday in October, we have now qualified to attend this.
The lunch started at 11.30 am, so naturally, it was fight for a seat from 11am. In fact the event didn't begin until 12.30 so there was plenty of time to greet people.
We were welcomed by the mayor and councillors, who would later serve the food.
We started with foie gras and sparkling wine and then the entertainment started - think holiday camp entertainment and singalong ...
A lemon sorbet with vodka followed before half a langouste (lobster) appeared and we enjoyed watching some of our neighbours extract every last bit of flesh from the shell. Bottles and bottles of wine, white, pink and red appeared at this point. Then the entertainment continued.
The main course was veal with mushrooms. Cheese followed this and then deserts and coffee.
We left early at about 5pm because Helen and Ernie were staying with us.
The next day, Sunday, we went up to St Chinan for a walk with Helen and Ernie.
Our next trip is to the Costa Brava for a couple of nights, leaving tomorrow.
Pat and John on tour