toute seule

for the past few days i have been toute seule, home alone, as my husband went back home for a visit to family and friends. 
i love some time alone, it is so relaxing and good for the soul. 

yesterday morning was a lovely morning, a little grey but mild and still, so i stopped for a petit chocolat chaud on the terrace in the square, served up in a cup and saucer in my favourite colours...a lovely little treat.

i am glad my husband is coming back tonight.
apart from his cheerful company i have also missed his cooking ! 
yes, he is a great cook and loves to get busy in the kitchen making home made soups, stews, gratin dauphinois to name a few.
in winter his favourite appliance is our old french wood fuelled cuisiniere.

this old dame makes the most wonderful baked potatoes

a favourite of ours in autumn, to make up for the fact that we still miss summer but it is cool outside, is a hot salad. 

fill a large bowl with salad leaves, with lots of rocket leaves on top. 
dress with basic vinaigrette laced with lots of ground black pepper and honey - a dressing made by my husband. 
a frequent hot topping that we love is lardons, fried with garlic and chillies....mmm. 

any hot topping will do - a recent wow was strips of beef with fresh ginger.

it is such a pleasure to be cooked for and i am quite spoilt but this evening i will have a special dinner ready for my husband and will make extra efforts to welcome him home. 
on that note, i must go, as i have lots to do !

wishing you a good sunday, whether you are tout seule or with friends and family today.
a bientot....