As far as local events go, I don’t think we’ll see any bigger than this in Rochechouart. Last weekend saw thousands flock to our beautiful town, not for the opening of a new boulangerie, or a new menu du jour at the Hotel de France. No, this historic event dates back many centuries. The Limousin... Continue Reading →
Life in France: a list of enjoyables
When we arrived in France just over two years ago we had our pre-conceived expectations of what life here would be like. I’d spent two summer seasons working on campsites on the south coast about thirty years ago, but that wasn’t much like ‘real life’, so those expectations were mainly based on our holidays and... Continue Reading →
There is a harmony in autumn, and a luster in its sky…
It’s been nearly ten weeks since I last put pen to paper on this here blog. That’s a touch slack, but hey… apart from my parents no one’s said anything so I presume no one’s noticed, or bothered. In fact, that’s a little lie. A few kindly people have mentioned they like to keep up... Continue Reading →
Rochechouart – so much more than a ville fleurie
I think I could count the number of days I’ve not worn shorts, since April, on the fingers of one hand. Most summers in Scotland I could count on one hand the number of days I did wear shorts. Not only is the weather a total and glorious improvement on last year’s washout, but centre... Continue Reading →
Bergerac… mais oui, c’est adorable
We’ve been living in France for one and a half years now. During that time we’ve returned to Scotland a few times, but last Sunday saw us take our first French break courtesy of a kindly birthday present for Heather from her beautiful daughter and son-in-law. A two-night stay in a gite on an organic... Continue Reading →
The miracle of Spring
I’ve been trying to update this blog at least once a month. The last time I wrote anything was two months ago, so yeah, I’ve been a bit slack recently. But we’ve been busy! It’s nearly 10pm on Friday night, we’ve got a busy weekend planned, so what better time to try to catch up... Continue Reading →
Le Garden Rescue: Part Two
A year ago we attempted some de-weeding in our garden; the first of two failed attempts in quick succession. It soon became apparent that simply removing the weeds that took up every inch of our ground was not enough. These weeds were persistent, and seemed to grow back with anger and vigour as if to... Continue Reading →
Walking in a winter wonderland
Last year I seemed to mention the weather, in a very negative way, with monotonous regularity. That was until August when the sun appeared. Weather talk can be so dull, but such was the deluge of rain last year that amongst the grip of covid it took on more importance. Our daily walks, which are... Continue Reading →
Pepper: my new doggo life in Rochechouart
Life has changed for us in many ways, but for us this is only the first time we have found a permanent home in a different country. For our wee dog, Pepper, this is her second such experience. Born five years ago in Serbia, her first year was an awful one resulting in her being... Continue Reading →
Rochechouart – une ville fleurie
Over the last few months, with lockdown measures gradually lifting, Rochechouart has begun to come alive. Summer has approached somewhere near normality with everywhere open, and at last August has seen almost a whole month of sunshine. Pavements are adorned with tables and chairs, numerous events and attractions have been open and ‘centre ville’ has... Continue Reading →
Extended Chabaudies and Reverse Laurieres
Our days are now very nicely full. Our gite is fully booked until the beginning of September with our two latest bookings (now that quarantining is no longer required if fully vaccinated) coming from England. Our first seven guests have been and gone, with each one giving us a glowing 5-star review! Changeovers and laundry... Continue Reading →
The right side of rustic
First things first, let’s get the latest on the weather out of the way. Yesterday, Bastille Day, saw the last of the rain. It has continued to pour, hard. But today has been dry and for the week ahead the forecast is nothing but sun. The rain has been unbelievable, but then we see what’s... Continue Reading →