Vive La France

Well, we have been here almost 10 years and this is our 1000th post. Some may have wondered whether we would make it to this milestone, but not us. Firstly we must thank all of you who have been with us all the way. Well done for putting up with John waxing lyrical about the same clump of violets each Spring and me going on endlessly about the garden. We must also not forget those who have joined us along the way. We enjoy writing this diary and trust that it enlightens and, from time to time, amuses you.

This significant landmark inevitably prompts reflection. We can honestly say that the last ten years have been among the best in our lives. Of course our health problems were not foreseen but they have become part of the success story. We have more than tasted the French health system and we cannot praise it enough.

By far the most important part of our french life has been the friends we have made, both French and English. We will never forget the English friends who looked after me when I was bedridden and John was at the Heart Rehabilitation unit. We had not known them long and they formed a rota to look after me day and night. We have equally made wonderful French friends. Our neighbours, Jean-Jacque and Nadine have been like family from day one. We have never been treated like "foreigners" and have French friends from across the full spectrum of society.

Yesterday we joined a guided tour of a medieval town about an hour away. As the group assembled we were a little hesitant that we would be able to follow the guide as he spoke quietly and fast!! However by the end we were congratulating ourselves that we had understood virtually everything. My grammar remains atrocious but John is much better and enjoys himself translating his poems into French. My written French only goes as far as writing out recipes for friends, and that is challenging enough.

We have also gone 'native' as far as drinking wine is concerned.  Wine seems not to be considered as alcohol and often copious glasses are consumed at meal times.  In fact we can't keep up with them!  Yet, before the meal, their 'apéros' are usually strong and sweet ... and not to our liking.

Of course everything is not perfect here. We have our own political ideas  about the way the government should run the country - don't we all. However such aspects impinge little on our rural life, but things such as politely greeting every one you meet, whether they be in a lift or guests for dinner, certainly does.