We have had friends round for lunch twice this week. The menus were similar but the ambiance was not the same on both occasions.

On Monday, two friends of the Bear who were touring Belgium and Germany popped in to see us just before going home. They had been staying in very posh establishments and dining on gourmet fare but they were kind enough to say that it made a change to eat 'real' food when I served up roast pork with peas, potatoes and carrots.

CC and Jay tactfully took the Whale out during the visit and Bear was a perfect host, sociable and pleasant, chatting about old times.

After they had taken their leave - in their pale blue Aston Martin -  he thanked me profusely for my efforts and even made an attempt to help clear up!

But yesterday, I had invited our (French) friends for a meal and the atmosphere changed. It has to be said that we had talked about going out, but as it was the only day Marie and Michel were free and we hadn't seen them for a long time I didn't think Bear would mind.

CC and I cooked another roast and veg but the chocolate mousse I had got up early to make was a bit of a disaster so Jay went out to buy a gateau for dessert.

Bear stayed in bed most of the morning complaining of aches and pains but he did get up before our guests arrived and joined in the 'apero'.

He became quiet during the meal and went to sit in his armchair before we had finished. He remained with his eyes closed and a pained expression on his face until our friends left.

When I came in from waving them off he had the telly on and was watching the Tour de France with a map on his lap!