Very enjoyable anniversaire today. Well, technically yesterday. Celebrated in style with my trio of luverlies. Visited sunny Felletin for a morning coffee. Seemed strangely quiet. Discovered quite by chance that it was the day of the almost famous 'brocante' market. So everyone was out there on the edge of town. Luckily had my camera with me so took a few snaps. Then returned home for bit of a nosh-up. Bread'n'fromage. Suddenly realised it was 4pm. Running out of time. Half the village was due to come round for a few evening drinks. Walked the dogs then had a quick shower. Freezing cold. This is what happens with a houseful of girls. Hot water gets used up quick and one forgets to switch the water heater on. Discovered an old armpit spray at the back of the shower-room shelf. Yves Saint Laurent. Sprayed the old pits. Then sprayed again. And again. Didn't seem to be working. But it was. Stank to high heavens. Still do. Natives arrived at about 7.30. Champagne corks popped. One flew right over the house. Much merriment, gay banter (didn't understand a word but that's half the fun) and general bonhomie. Everyone left at around 9.30, just after the demolishing of le gateau. Cleared up, walked the dogs then fell asleep in the telly chair. A parfait end to a parfait jour. Thanks gals. Efforts much appreciated. (Party pic shows early arrivals. Numbers doubled a coupla minutes later. Honest guv. Would hate anyone to think I ain't that popular.)

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