Following the success of South Pacific yesterday we have decided to resume our efforts to learn French.  Maureen has always been something of a linguist and French was one of my best subjects at school over 50 years ago.  I recall my French teacher showing concern when I left school at the earliest opportunity, at the age of 15, saying: ‘Why  are you leaving?  You are one of the best in this class at French.’

Maureen has had lots of holidays touring the South of France.  My sole experience is a day trip when we ended up at Folkestone having missed our turning to London.  So we have a new focus for a while, rather than watching endless repeats on the television in the evening.  The real advantage with all of this is that Maureen will be the tutor, as her command of the language is extensive compared to my few phrases.  This has real potential for raising her confidence by becoming the tutor: a bit of role reversal in the household.  When we met 25 years ago I was a youth and community tutor and Maureen had a clerical role in the Community College where we worked.

Lessons have already begun this morning using the medium of South Pacific.  There is no doubt who has the best voice and to Maureen smile as she sings along is refreshing.  We have also scanned YouTube and the complete film and lots of extracts are readily available.  So guess what is likely to be on tonight?  We will give ‘Open All Hours’ or ‘Keeping Up Appearances’ a rest for a while.  Aurevoir for now.