Early morning. A foreigner can be seen striding along the lane that leads from the top of the ridge down to the old ruined hut at the bottom. As he goes he talks to two furry dogs. From time to time they look up and acknowledge his presence. The female dog, who is ferociously independent, wanders off into the sunflower fields in search of voles. She lets out a ''wait for me ! '' yelp every hundred yards or so. The boy dog leaps on invisible things in the long grass. All are, in their own way, happy.
Seven at night, the mayor arrives at the gate. Just in time for a glass of champagne. He's accompanied by the man in the day-glo yellow jacket. To celebrate the France v Germany match there will be a party on the village green. The depressive accordion playing physiotherapist will be there. So too will the band from the neighbouring village. ''Band'' is a loose term to describe four retired gentlemen who supplement their pensions by playing at pre-teen parties. Their repertoire includes 'Puff the Magic Dragon'. 'Sur le pont d'Avignon' and 'We're all going to the zoo tomorrow'.
It seems that the whole of France now believes that the World Cup is theirs for the taking.
7 comments:
I hope the band's repertoire extends to Le Marseillaise.
Good luck, France.
XXXOOO Bella Roxy & Dui
"Sur the pont D'Avignon" was one of the first songs that was taught to us in French class at school.....and now it will be stuck in my head all day.
I love the picture you painted as you walked along talking to Bob and Sophie. Folks here think think I'm a bit crazy because I talk to Brownie just like a human, and what's wrong with that I ask?
Enjoy the France Will Win Party on the village green.
With the US out of the World Cup, I'm cheering for France too!
Bonne chance!
Thank you for sharing the sunflower pictures. I look forward to them every year.
B (who is grumpy this weekend with anyone named Arthur)
Posting at halftime. Emotions must be rising. Let's go France!
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