On Friday night, 12 May, the Aquitaine Langues and Chateau Lalinde hosted another wildly successful Literary Evening -- this time, once again, with one of the most delightful authors I have had the pleasure to meet.
Michael Sadler, as a little boy, used to stand on the beach on the other side of the Channel, at Newhaven, with his mother and father and with them learn to 'smell' France -- Smell the pastis being served in the little bistro!, his father would say. Ah! and the little cup of espresso!, his mother would exclaim -- do you smell the espresso, Michael? Years later Michael packed his bags, said his goodbyes to England, and came to France -- not only to taste every day what he only used to smell from over there, but to marry the woman of his dreams, the gorgeously lovely Lulu.
Listening to Michael, it is sometimes hard to imagine that he was not born French -- but -- not hard to understand how he did not only steal Lulu's heart, but also the hearts of an entire nation. He manages to combine a rapier English wit with the most subtle of French humour, a completely disarming charm with a captivating directness and honesty - he seduces his audience, then challenges and rewards them with his use of the language, his sharp observations and his wide knowledge of the great love of his life, his adopted country, La Belle France!
Michael regaled about 35 fortunate people for an hour and a half with his stories, and in discussion with Albert Croce from Aquitaine Langues, after which everyone continued the discussion over a glass of wine on the terrace of the chateau, where Michael also signed books for all his new admirers.
Finally, with great difficulty, we managed to drag everyone away from the terrace with its beautiful view, champagne air and almost full moon, and sat down to a delicious Perigordien meal prepared for us by John and Jill Castle. Salade de Gesiers, Magret de Canard, Cabecou au miel and Fraises garringettes at its very best -- a feast for kings! Copious wine and sparkling conversation with Michael at the centre holding court and lovely Lulu capturing the hearts of everyone as well. 
It was with great sadness that I bid this amazing couple farewell at the Lalinde train station yesterday morning, but I felt so fortunate to have made their acquaintance and know that we will meet again -- and I shall look forward with great anticipation to when that happens!
Click on Link:
Chateau Lalinde : The perfect venue for your event
TAGS: Events Rent a chateau France
Chateau
Perigord Food Holidays in France Recipes
