Fete de la Musique
There was a "Fete de la Musique" in St Jean de Losne on the evening of our arrival, which coincided with the summer solstice. The town came to life with people everywhere and bands and groups taking up prominent positions for their performances. We had promised ourselves dinner that night and were entertained by a group (vocalist, piano accordion and keyboard) singing folk songs. Elsewhere we saw a junior marching band, a mixed choir (some elderly and in wheelchairs), and a rock group.
Anja's batteries are rapidly deteriorating so we have taken the big and expenbsive decision to replace them now rather than, as we had hoped, waiting until next year. Fortunately St Jean de Losne's chandlery can supply the chosen type, with delivery of three days. While waiting for the batteries we had a quick trip further up the Saone to Auxonne, a mediaeval fortress town. The ramparts and the chateau built by Louis XI in 1479 are interesting. Napoleon Bonaparte trained at the Royal Artillery school there in 1788- 89 and was an instructor in 1791 so mementos of him are on prominent display. There is still a Transport and Logistics Regiment at the same Army barracks.
The trip to Auxonne was a milestone for Anja- we deployed the anchor for the first time! Faced with a long wait for a lock and no obvious place to tie up, we realised that the spot was perfect for anchoring. The anchor was easily lowered on its substantial winch, and held well. It came up just as easily afterwards. We had tried out raising and lowering the anchor before but never actually used it so we will have more confidence in future. No doubt sailors will wonder how we could be on the water for almost three months without using such a basic piece of equipment! Still, we make up for it with extra practice in mooring.
While at Auxonne, we visited the local museum which is in a tower of the old Chateau. It was a somewhat tired and undernourished museum (due to lack of funds) but was interesting and the custodians allowed us to the roof for a spectacular view of the town.
Best Regards,
Dave and Penny
