Window seat anyone?

After a month-long absence, we’ve returned to find spring in full swing in Normandy. The birds are singing relentlessly and buds are popping up everywhere.

One of my favourite sights is the bluebells in the woods behind the house. From a distance, they look like a deep violet-blue carpet (though it wouldn’t look so good in your living room!). Did you know that the drooping, bell-shaped blossoms of the bluebell have long been celebrated as symbols of fresh starts and personal renewal? I suspect that after our cruise, my liver could use just such a renewal. Apparently, we drank the ship dry of rosé— not out of gluttony but simply making sure we were getting our money’s worth. I do so hate waste.

We have a very old cherry tree that looks lifeless most of the time but blossoms in the spring. Over the winter, it started to lean precariously and we watched nervously for any new signs of life. I had to wrestle the chainsaw out of Tim’s grip—he’s always itching to reduce things to firewood but joy of joys, it has blossomed, so it is safe from the madman with the chainsaw for another year.

The weather has been stunning here and we took advantage of it for a BBQ and a chance to catch up with friends who have been away for a while. They have returned sun-kissed and brimming with stories of distant shores, yet they all agreed: nothing compares to the rolling green fields and stone cottages of home (feel a Tom Jones song coming on). Every time we return and round the bend onto our own drive, I get that heady thrill of arriving on holiday. According to my family, we live in perpetual holiday mode anyway, yet they have no idea how many chores await us, which includes turning the small outbuilding into a gym (don’t laugh—we all know it will just end up as a store cupboard for garden tools and forgotten treasures!).

Culture corner:

Bayeux Tapestry:

I’m sure you have heard that the tapestry will be visiting the UK later this year whilst its museum in Bayeux is renovated. It’s actually a homecoming, as it was created in Canterbury and has been in France since 1077. In exchange, Britain will loan France various early treasures—so I wonder which crooner/tv personality or actor will be crossing the channel?

Chateau DIY - Win the dream:

This is a TV series where couples compete to win a house in the Normandy countryside. It was filmed nearby, so a lot of local brocantes are featured, highlighting what good value brocantes are and all the treasures that are waiting to be rescued. Against a backdrop of clear blue skies and rolling pastures, it reminds us of how fortunate we are to live here—though I draw the line at crafting a window seat from old pallets.

Taste sensation:

Grignottes de poulet—sold in every French supermarket. The name comes from the verb ‘grignoter’, which is French for nibble or snack. One taste and you will understand why they disappear before you can say “bon appétit”.

Off to see what Tim is cutting down- enjoy the Spring!.