The New Season

Spring is about 4 weeks early. The trees are showing their first few green leaves. The bout of snow we had 3 days ago did warn us however that March might still have some zap in it.

Nevertheless, we know that spring is here by what is appearing in the shops. The first asparagus has arrived from Morocco, as have the first strawberries. The colonies are supplying "La Grand Nation" with their wares. And thankful we are for this stretch of North Africa and its exciting Franco-Arab culture.

Much has happened since June. We have met one or two people in a strange Anglo-French connection. One woman, who was born in Strasbourg in 1936, when it was German. Then in 1945, she had moved here and overnight had become French. She met her future husband, an Englishman and in the 1970's moved with him to England. She then at some point decided to take on English citizenship. They divide their time between England and France. She speaks perfect English with a slight French accent.

Sarkozy became President, dumped his wife, married Carla Bruni and in one move increased his media coverage even further. As a sign that I am grappling with the language, I can even now speak to Jean-Marc who cuts my hair. I asked about this liason. His eyes rolled, "J'adore Sarkozy" he said. He is returning the glory to France. "Oui, j'adore le President" as he continued as the strands of my hair slowly sank to the floor.

"Oh my sunshine" is now "Ali Baba's Cave". Of the 38 restaurants we have here, there are 3 Kebab places. Ali Baba is number 3. He has a prime location and has captured the student population. A "menu etudiant" for €4.50 will get you a Kebab, frites and a drink. He does a roaring trade. In the summer, he requisitions the one parking space outside his cave and puts some tables and chairs on it. In Wilderbeest Land, this would have required copious permits, applications. Here, it would probably be the same, but the "Police municipal" turn a blind eye - when they stop by the window facing Mad Alley to pick up some supplies.

Mr Grumpy still does is fruit and veg shop. Grandma Sway walks sedately from her flat to we don't know where. But it is done 3 times a day.

Smiler across the rue has a good summer to look forward to. The European Football cup promises to boost business in July. All the cafes have got their tables and chairs out in anticipation of the first mild sunny days and a thirsty customer.

Let the season begin!