A Happy New Year from La Merveille
Another year disappears with frightening speed. Where did it go?
At La Merveille we had a record summer and welcomed guests from many parts of the World. Even a few fellow English managed to escape their ravaged economy to pay respect to Miss Ronald and her Michelin standard cooking. The French, bless them, have at last recognized that we are here to stay and they seem to be booking in ever increasing numbers.
The animal population grew when two delightful little goaties were engaged to demolish the weed jungle around the boulangerie. Mission accomplished the male decided that the swimming pool was now the place to be. Sadly goats are not good swimmers and the local goat population was reduced by exactly 50%.
Probably the most pleasing reaction from guests in 2010 was to the food. We took a risk and offered evening meals throughout the year and even to large groups. The menu combined the best of local produce with a few fond memories from Angleterre. Yorkshire pudding and roast potatoes crossed the Channel to a chorus of approval. The Ronald Apple Crumble has already become a local legend.
For my business partner, Elise, 2010 was her last year at University and probably the last time she can afford to spend so much time at La Merveille raising my hopes and expectations and always producing the most amazing results. It took me four long frustrating years in France to find the perfect partner and helper – but it was well worth the wait.
There is an old saying that goes, “Don’t cry because it is over, smile because it happened.” I can do more than smile – I can look forward to the future with renewed optimism and a strong desire to make La Merveille simply the best Chambres d’hotes in Normandy.
A very Happy New Year to all those that have visited us in recent years – we hope that you will come again. To the rest of you – what the hell are you waiting for?!!!
