It's not the winning - its the participating that counts.......!

The ladies representing the Australians, Elaine,Alda & Julie discuss tactics.

Karen starts off the game with her team mates Lesley & Geoff looking on, whilst John (Australian) heckles from behind.

John  offers support to team member Ross.

John No 2 looks like he is enjoying himself as he throws for Australia.

At 10 all,  with first to 11 the winner , both teams bring out there strikers....

Alda throws a cracking shot knocking my ball out of the game

And despite us playing our trump card, Joan , at nearly 80! 

It's all over - the Ozzies have it - 11 to our 10.

A great night was had by all.

Until the next challenge.........

Petanque Challenge The Ozzies V Les Anglais!

Tonight, in Saint Saturnin Les Apt,

Les Anglais, the guests from our two gites, take on

the Brisbanites, our six guests staying in Le Chene .

At the bouledrome Le Verger.

Match report to follow!

Sunday Lunch

For four years we have driven past 'Le Garage' a restaurant just off the old N100 near Lumieres promising we would stop and try it. Well yesterday we did and it was great. Sitting in a South facing courtyard, protected from the Mistral wind the friendly and effecient service  was perfect . The food was interesting with a varied well priced menu and extensive wine list. We shall stop again!

Apt Market - it's hotting up!

Our boule court is ready for use, perfect for a game and glass of Rose.

The Petit Zinc is the bar to be seen at in the Saturday morning market.

These guys are regulars and privide great Jazz to add to the atmosphere

Fabulous fresh Garlic

A superb choice of spices await!

Strawberries from Carpentras

Local Asparagus

And the poppies are bursting through enjoying the sunshine

Toys for the boys!

Now this is what I call an open topped vehicle!

It even has a bottle holder!

No more excuses for long grass.

The poppies are coming

May is a wonderful month in Provence, as the blossom falls the landscape comes alive with fields of poppies

The days become warmer, the shutters on second homes open, the pool covers are off and the markets are getting busy as the range of local produce 'grows'

The first two pictures were taken in 2006 and 2008 one week from now. Will this year colour match the spectacle?

Well  at least the rosé is being served chilled.

A Mistral to blow away the clouds and any remaining volcanic ash would be welcome today....!

rather than the warm and humid Levant wind, which is currently blowing humidity from the East.

Meanwhile the cloudy unsettled weather brings a dramatic and fast changing skyline.

Our new 'boule court' has been built and awaits the first international challenge! watch this space