2010  Christmas 2009 was a mixed and exciting affair with us spending Christmas day on our own . We celebrated in style with all the works and

trimmings of a traditional turkey dinner. We had decorations, christmas tree and lights. Although on own own we had a greaty party together which

lasted up until the end of Boxing Day.   Christmas Sunday was spent at a French friend's home with 4 generations of their family and they all made

us feel really welcome. The event was a mix of a French and English traditions and great fun was had by all. We must thank Alain and Louise-

Marie Suberbielle for their great friendship and hospitality. The following Tuesday we were invited to our dear friends Eugène and Madeleine

Charron for our third traditional Christmas dinner and to play cards. Another superb day. We must thank them  for their long-lasting friendship with

us and the hospitality given.

30 January 2010   Today was forecast to be sunny but very

cold so we took the opportunity to visit an exhibition of art

held in Angers, our nearest large city. The exhibition was

held in two separate buildings within walking distance of

each other and consisted of an interesting mix of abstract

and 'interpretive' art, full of colour and movement.  Afterwards

we indulged in a delicious hot chocolate in the adjoining

coffee shop - made with real chocolate ......  We made our

way back to the car sightseeing on the old buildings along

the way.

The drive home through the sun-bathed winter countryside

was gorgeous - so much texture in the old buildings and

hedgerows.  A good day to be out and about.

6th February 2010   Our friends Willy and Olive Peel invited us to a Burns

Supper that they had organised in the Salle de Fete, Chigné. What a night!

There were about 80 people who arrived to be entertained English and

French. The music was supplied by a superb Pipes Band from Angers. Like

the genial host that he is Willy, with his wife Olive led us all through the

evenings entertainment. Sipping whisky and eating haggis has got to be a

great way to pass an evening with friends and strangers alike.