With heartiest wishes for a happy, healthy New Year !

Quelle chance! What good luck we’ve had to begin 2009 with mild weather and bright skies. Even the birds are warming up, twittering to beat the band. In these early hours as twelve new months stretch before us, my mood is optimistic …malgré la crise (in spite of the economic storms around us)…with a new list of markets to try and each season’s surprises to be found. Winter’s earthy wonders, roots to be roasted and mushrooms to sauté, as well as cabbages and lentils for soups are January ‘s pleasures. A plate of dates and oranges, and why not a few almond macarons to cap off a long Sunday lunch with friends? Bring branches of red berries for a stoneware vase, light a few tapers in brass candle holders, warm the plates and linger around the table until dusk draws clouds across the valley. The new year is duly launched!