Early Autumn in La Javie signals the enchanting music of the cloche as the sheep come back down to the village from the mountains. Sleep is soothed by the lullaby of bells attached to the Tardons as they graze on the fields.
Last Saturday the sun shone bright and balmy on the Foire Aux Tardons, a local agricultural fete that features the sale of sheep (tardons and ewes) and provides a forum for a wide range of exchanges between the players in the farming world. It's also an informative and convivial showcase for anyone interested in livestock farming. The village fete commitee brought together local food producers and organisations that celebrate this rich region to sample their delicacies and talk about their craft.
The ambience as ever is warm and friendly and I couldn't help going home without purchasing beautiful scarves knitted from 100% sheep wool (essential for the winter here), a string of garlic that will see me through the next few months and a pot of confiture that I am too scared to open, its that good!
The Ecomusee was open for guided tours (more on that in another post) a wonderful start to my day where I was transported back to the village in ancient times. La Javie has so much incredible history that my one visit didn't do it justice and I will be rocking up very soon take another look.
Late afternoon saw small groups of friends perched on benches in secluded corners feasting on cheeses and pastries purchased at the foire, sipping local wine, toasting birthdays and sharing joy in a way that only the French can do.
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