Today would have been the first of our bi-annual mahoosive vide grenier events (car boot sales) for 2020, at the wonderful La Charrue, Vieux Mareuil, Dordogne. Our dear friend Pauline has been hosting these events, a firm favourite on the expat (and local) calendar for many years. In fact, sometimes it seems as if Twilight and La Charrue are almost twinned. Although Pauline and Clive’s restaurant, gites and campsite complex is an hour’s drive from Twilight HQ, it is a premier fundraising location for us and the vides bring in much needed funds for the puds. Plus, they are a great opportunity for people to get together, for a natter, to browse the stalls to find second-hand bargains and to enjoy Pauline’s lovely food.

But, as for all of us, the virus needs for us all to just hunker down and stay very safe and look out for each other where we can. The reality for so many is that consequences start to take an effect. None really matter if we all are well. But here, like every other animal rescue and charity, we are feeling it. Funds have slowed, food stores running low, disinfectant stocks disappearing and we’re wondering just a little what the future brings. So missing today’s Vide is a big thing for us.

We are incredibly lucky; we have a Facebook presence – join us! All our details are on the website, and yes, we do have that infamous donate button if you feel you can spare a few euros. We would have collected your ‘brown stuff’ this weekend at the vide – do you know that alone can keep us in cleaning products all year, and we haven’t collected a centime this year. We are no different to any animal rescue, so if you live near one, perhaps drop them a bag of food. I know we would appreciate it, so they would too, but obviously when it is safe to do so.

We have been lucky, and we have ordered from Zooplus, so even when shielding our lovely poorly Mike, we can get supplies. We have an incredible neighbour and the virtual support of our friends, so lonely is not an issue. We hope you have been able to reach out for any support you have needed. So, … not today to share a physical hug, cuppa, vide goodies, and catch up, but one day soon.

Although we have had to cancel today’s event, Pauline is still determined to continue the fundraising with a fantastic virtual event over on Facebook. On Sunday 10th May there will be a wonderful afternoon concert at 5pm. The very talented Kenneth Stammers, a regular performer at La Charrue, will donate his time singing all our favourite tunes from West End musical ballads, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, reggae, soul and lots, lots more. Join us there – just click here to find the event page – you can send a request for your tune. So, we might not be together in real life, but we can enjoy the music together, and all you lovely, caring animal loving people can donate as much or as little as you can afford to help the Puds.

For now, Leeanne says, “stay well, stay safe …. and keep washing those hands xxx”

Leeanne