Wednesday

I have some work that I need to do today and there are still a few more jobs to get done around the house to make sure that we’re ready. Matt is putting some lights in the hallway which will probably be useful, I’ve also got to make all the beds and wash the remaining floors etc.

We also had to go shopping to get all the food and drink in ready for the birthday and new year celebrations.

Meanwhile our first guests were on their way and have despite some crazy queues in Paris for the ticket machines they just made their train. Eventually they made it to Gourdan-Polignan with us ready to give them a lift home and to settle in for their stay. So glad they are here!

[28 December 2022]

Thursday

Vivian and Jeff arrive today, they’re also getting the train down and they got the early flight so should be here around lunchtime. Meanwhile Matt and I are working on the ensuite bathroom.

After collecting our final guests however it was time to call it a day and start feeding and drinking people. Tonight we’ve gone for a simple raclette; local, simple, and easy.

[29 December 2023]

Friday – Happy Birthday to Us

Up late as is my want. Meanwhile Matt was up and took Jeff and Vivian up to the ski slopes, however not much to see sadly since it has been so crazy warm. It’s a shame as it would have been great to get V-dog on skis for the first time, maybe next year.

After lounging around for most of the day with my wonderful friends it’s time to crack on with dinner. Canapés and escargot, which most people actually got on-board with (I thought they were lovely and the buttery sauce is amazing). Then on to making dinner. Matt is head chef, I am sous chef and Vicky is also helping.

Turns out that duck à l’orange requires a caramel base and none of us have ever made caramel. Lesson learnt, don’t stir it! We spent hours on the caramel before throwing it out. Thankfully we finally got there and I have to say that it was incredible. Matt cooked the duck beautifully and had an amazing meal. Cremé Catalan to finish. What a night. Maybe 40 won’t be so bad, the kids are looking good for it and Jeff is nearly a year in 😉

I’ve also been looking very fancy this evening with my new jewellery and supping some Cremant, Fancy AF!

[30 December 2022]

Saturday – NYE

Very slow start to the day as we were up late last night and after a few days together, mostly because of Lee, the season of celebrations is starting to catch up on us. We’re game though and eventually we’re up for a late brunch.

Weather is pretty terrible and so we’re stuck at home. We have plenty of supplies however with lots of yummy food, more sparkles and wine, beer and spirits for Lee. He’s been doing a good job on his giant bottle of vodka and we’ve been tracking his progress along the way. I was doubtful that he’d finish it before he leaves but with a bit of support I’m increasingly convinced that Matt’s joke wasn’t unfounded.

Dinner is somewhat less fancy this evening but we still had lots of canapés which I always love.

We were busy having fun, relaxing and dancing our way into the new year and we hope you started yours surrounded by the best people and having a wonderful time, we did!

[31 December 2022]