If there’s one thing Roy hates – and I think I’m justified in saying that there are quite a few such things – it’s having to wait until I’ve photographed his food before he can eat it. (You can actually hear teeth grinding.) This selection of photos, taken over the past few days, reflects the five different stages of grief – progressing from denial, to anger, bargaining, depression and, finally, acceptance.
Stage 1
Stage 1 – Denial – My creme caramel is melting in the heat – I can’t believe you’re doing this to me! (Chalons-en-Champagne)
Stage 2
Stage 2 – Anger – Finally, a proper tarte tatin, and now you’ve gone and spoilt the moment! (Dijon, Restaurant Le Sauvage)
Stage 3
Stage 3 – Bargaining – Will you put the camera away if I share the last yoghurt with you? (Dijon, Hotel Le Sauvage)
Stage 4
Stage 4 – Depression – How much longer I can go on like this? (Dijon, Cafe Le Grand)
Stage 5
Stage 5 – Acceptance – Lucky it’s only a salad this time. (Dijon, L’Epicerie & Cie)
Born and raised in Durban, South African Verne is a writer and editor. She and Roy met in Durban in 1992, got married four years later, and moved briefly to London in 2000 and then to Singapore a year later. After their 15 or 16 years on that amazing island, Roy retired in May 2016 from a long career in shipping.
Now, instead of settling down and waiting to get old in just one place, we've devised a plan that includes exploring the waterways of France on our new boat, Karanja. And as Verne doesn't do winter, we'll spend the rest of the time between Singapore, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand - and whatever other interesting places beckon.
Those round-the-world air-tickets look to be incredible value...
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