Don't mention the weather

It's true to say that the weather has been unseasonal. To see the snow on the Pyrenees at this time of year is unheard of, so rare in fact it has made the news. So we're back to being truly British, discussing the weather on a daily basis. And I for one am not amused !

On Sunday however the sun broke through the clouds so we decided to take a 'drive'. Armed with one of His Lordships best picnics including a fine Petit Pont-L'évêque from Normandy oozing at the corners of the box we set forth. The countryside varies greatly as soon as you are on the road to Mirepoix. Along the way we stopped off at the tiny village of Malégoude for a cup of coffee from our trusty thermos flask. Wandering into the deserted church was like discovering somewhere that had lain untouched for many years. Deep green damp lined the walls and the ancient worn tiles had shifted and moved. A few old chairs were scattered around the alter on which a mournful and slightly chipped Madonna gazed down at solitary tea candles. Propped up against the wall was an old wooden bier which is rather like a large sledge only with feet on which to carry the deceased to their resting place. A leg had broken off and one could only wonder as to the reason. Had it occurred at a critical moment perhaps ?

We found a marvellous spot for our picnic. In the pretty village of Camon we sat under the bridge next to a gurgling river breathing in the tranquility and warmth. Just as we had spread out our feast along came the inevitable walking party, boot clad and breathing heavily. It happened to be the festival of roses that day and every doorway seemed to be adorned by a cascade of heavenly scents.

Meandering along the country lanes heading for home I spied a field full of beautiful creamy brown cows munching on the lush grass. Tip-toeing stealthily through the wild flowers which were in abundance I pointed my camera. They all stared at me ceasing their contented munching. You could have heard a pin drop. Time froze. In a split second they all turned their backs on me and began to slowly lumber along the hillside. Just the one paused and took a long hard look at me.

So near and yet so far. The story of my life.....