The weekly market in Eauze was buzzing this morning; it was a glorious day, under a clear blue sky, the frost having burnt off the rooftops and fields. Every available space was taken by market stalls, occupying every inch of the town. Oysters seem to be the thing to eat at this time of year and there were long queues at each of the stalls selling them; they had all almost sold out by 11am. The large car park was full; when I returned to load my shopping into the car, I was surprised to find that the key wouldn’t open the door and just spun round in the lock. I had visions of having to ask Nick to cycle over to Eauze with the spare car key, till I looked at the registration – one of the disadvantages of having bought a “truly French” car is that they’re everywhere! A quick look around to make sure nobody had noticed my mistake, then a nonchalant amble around till I found our car, and yes, the key worked fine!

This evening we’d been asked to go to the village hall, where the New Year’s Eve party will be held, to help set up. We arrived at 6pm, along with about sixteen others; the men put out tables and chairs, as well as hanging fairy lights and other technical type stuff, while the women made table decorations. In a couple of hours, the place was transformed. Aperitifs were then served, white wine or a potent concoction whose name sounded like “Pousse à Pierre”, a mixture of champagne and a local armagnac-based, orange flavoured spirit. Once everyone had had a glass or two, we were asked to be there again on Saturday afternoon, with bread knives, to prepare the canapes for the evening. Also to go back on Sunday to help clear up; those who do so will get lunch once the cleaning up has been done; that probably won’t be till about 4pm as we’re not expected to arrive till about 1pm. Just as well, as the New Year’s Eve bash starts at 8.30 and goes on till 6 the following morning, with soup served at about 4 or 5 am for anyone still standing!

For anyone wondering what the monstrous vegetable pictured below is, it’s half of Adrian and Julie’s pumpkin, which they gave us yesterday. I’m not quite sure how I’ll use it all; suggestions please!