A Taste of Nostalgia
Reliving Childhood Memories in France
So that’s me back home in Scotland. To cheer myself up and keep a bit of the Frenchy feeling alive, I’m comforted by the pack of Petite Saucisson Sec I bought from M&S. I LOVE saucisson! Every bite transports me back to the sun-drenched days of my childhood in the south of France. Though I now call Scotland home, these memories remain vivid and cherished.
Growing up, my summers were filled with joy as our whole extended family descended upon my grandparents' home in Perpignan. The mornings began with a comforting ritual—a bowl of hot chocolate while dipping fresh French bread, slathered in my grandfather's homemade plum jam, into the steamy cocoa. It was the perfect start to a day of adventures. And we’d always eat outdoors in the Garden.
That sprawling garden, lovingly cultivated by my grandfather, was our playground. My cousins and I would lose ourselves in games until it was time to head to the beach. With saucisson sandwiches in hand, we played in the salty breeze and crashing waves, even as sand found its way into our lunches. Beach vendors echoed the air with calls of "beignets" (doughnuts) and "chouchou," (caramelized peanuts). The apricot-filled doughnuts were always my fav and I could munch on chouchous all day!
Afternoons were a wonderful mix of more play and snacks. My grandmother would treat us with French bread stuffed with chocolate squares, a quirky but beloved treat. The garden's fruit trees provided a bounty of snacks, and I’ve yet to find a white flesh peach as delicious as the ones that grew in that garden.
As the day waned, anticipation for dinner grew. My grandmother's culinary prowess was unmatched, as she tirelessly prepared meals for over thirty family members. We gathered around the long outdoor table, savoring garden-fresh tomatoes, (first course) lamb cutlets, (second course) salads (third course) and the ever-present bread and cheese. (forth and beyond) For the adults, wine flowed freely, while we kids stuck to water (with the occasional sip of wine)
Evenings were a time for exploration and excitement. We ventured to la place du village (the village square) to enjoy traveling fêtes, or if we were particularly lucky, a trip to Luna Park awaited us. There, bumper cars and the house of mirrors and candy floss promised a great time.
In these seemingly simple moments, I found happiness and a deep sense of belonging. Now, as I sit in Scotland, a packet of saucisson in hand, I am reminded of those idyllic French summers. It's more than just a snack—it's a gateway to my past, filled with family, love, and unforgettable memories.
