Hoping this finds you, as it leaves me, in the pink......

No reason for the blues, but I woke up with them as company. My guess is that it is only a fleeting visit as the sun has returned to the Vendée, God is in his heaven and all is well with our tiny corner of the world. Whilst mayhem reigns in other quarters I’m planning a visit to the eccentric “cabanes de pecheur” in nearby Faymoreau. These miniature seaside villas are constructed on wooden pontoons and serve as a refuge for the world weary Frenchman. Often equipped with a drawbridge, they provide the “liberté” so essential to their way of life. It’s all part of the empty village syndrome that amazes tourists as they pass through the French countryside. “There’s no one in the streets” “Where is everyone?” They’re chilling, not shopping and they might well produce a bream cooked in foil like this one. Clean the fish and lay it down on a  piece of baking parchment or aluminium foil which is large enough to encase it totally. Liberally anoint the fish with olive oil, seasoning and herbs. Scatter some split cherry tomatoes around the fish and wrap it carefully, so that it is completely sealed. Cook in a hot oven for around 15 minutes. This is a feast best enjoyed directly from the paper, overlooking water and in good company. As if by magic the blues have left me, leaving me in the pink.

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