From what I remember of Norwich in the week up to Christmas it was packed with shoppers laden with packages jostling each other in their search for last minute presents to the accompaniment of the Salvation Army band playing carols.
Today, in Charleville there was no Christmas excitement to be found. The shops seemed even less busy than on a normal Saturday and the only music was a version of 'Just one cornetto' from the children's roundabout. Even the weather was unseasonal - a clear blue sky and sunshine and, although it wasn't exactly warm, several cafés had tables outside and certain hardy customers were drinking their coffee in the fresh air.
The Bear and I had a hot chocolate inside and booked a table for lunch. We then had an hour to spend on the market with Elisabeth. Her stall was deserted and she said she had sold very little so far. In fact, only the fruit and veg traders were doing any business but they weren't exactly overstretched.
Bear sat himself down in a grumpy heap on the only stool and looked sour enough to drive any potential customers away. If only he would drop me off on a Saturday and come home to a warm fire, I could stay to help and Elisabeth would bring me back, but he makes it very difficult by hanging around and making it plain he is suffering.
She must have been quite relieved to see the back of us when we went for lunch.
On the way to La Fontaine Bear muttered that he hadn't bought me a Christmas present and we might 'see something'. However, his 'offer' lacked any sign of enthusiasm and I didn't really know how to respond. I had no means of guessing the extent of his generosity. Did he mean a 10 euro box of chocolates or maybe 20 for a book or a CD? Or might he be prepared to push the boat out for a much needed pressure cooker???
I gather his daughters buy their own presents and tell him what they cost. He then gives them the money plus a bit more. He has never suggested that I might like to buy something for a present.
