Lady Bountiful in the Languedoc

Easter Sunday found yours truly relaxing in the spacious bathroom of Le Chateau, a glass of agreeably chilled Manzanilla sherry to hand, thoughtfully provided by the recent Spanish guests. Enjoying a rare moment of tranquility and calm and contemplating the previous nights party I reflected on how fortunate I was to be able to celebrate in such lovely surroundings. The balloons had stayed up, I had managed to keep hidden my precious supply of Cadbury's mini eggs, all in all a great success.

So what now ? the party's over, in every sense of the word. The wide panelled hallways had echoed to frenetic music, gyrating hips to well known songs, glasses of champagne spilling onto the tiles, peels of loud laughter. My new Godin stove had risen magnificently to the occasion, glowing beautifully and emanating the most wonderful heat. I had glided up and down my marble staircase, Lady Bountiful, if only for a few brief precious hours resplendent in Granny's jewels.

Next week Lady Bountiful will have a new identity.

Such is life.