I did more Christmas shopping yesterday. I always try to find things that people will enjoy and have some relevance to Toulouse. Not sure I am totally good at the concept but I try.

There is a shop here that sells items made by members of religious communities near Toulouse – nun and monks. They have soap, honey, chocolate, beer, cosmetic products, ceramics, other food and then the typical religious items. I think it is a good place to buy some things as it is definitely local and helps sustain the religious orders. There must be a business that helps as all the good are professional packaged.

I revisited the Christmas Market as it is fun to get in the Christmas spirit there. It is packed in the evening with everyone eating, drinking, shopping and just generally enjoying the atmosphere.

I was walking to see a light display and came across a group performing in the street. They were somewhat a of dance, acrobat and performance group. I believe I had seen the same group on my spring trip but in different costumes and doing a different performance. Not sure I can explain the performance but there are videos below showing it.

It is fun just to come across this type of art and activities unexpectedly. It is one of the things that intrigues me about Toulouse and what I like about the city.

I had my last dinner at Le Panache and it was an experience as usual. Enzo had bought a bottle of wine specially for us to share with Evrim. It was a very thoughtful gesture. I stayed late and had shots with them and another bottle of wine.

They had Coquile Saint-Jacques (scallops) for a main course. It was the first time they had served them. They were with parsnip purée and chips. Parsnips are a big vegetable here in the fall. You do not get them that often (or at least I do not) in meals in the United States.

I had the Cafe Gourmand (without the coffee) for dessert and the plate had my initial as part of the presentation.

Evrim told me I was his most faithful and favorite customer which was great. He sat and chatted with me when the restaurant was not busy.

Enzo and I discussed our bonding experience of running the half marathon together. He discussed ”partage” which means sharing. I think the race was part of what made me feel so much of a community. It really has cemented our friendship.

I do not know what I would do in Toulouse without Le Panache and Evrim and Enzo. They are my “family” in Toulouse. I am going to miss my Friday night dinner with the boys!