and along the Seine the Conciergerie, 

and the Notre Dame cathedral looked fabulous lit up at night.

On Christmas Eve we put presents under our Christmas tree

before setting off to a party at Phil's flat.

Phil and Cynthia welcomed their guests to a festive feast,

which involved plenty of eating and drinking.

We took our places at the table

and quickly polished off the delicious oysters and salmon.

Then our hosts were busy in the kitchen preparing the next course.

Phil served venison casserole

                                                       and we were soon tucking in with relish.

Then the gentlemen retired to the other side of room for a little pause in between courses.

The clock struck midnight and we offered Christmas gifts to our friends.

Surprise, surprise!

Then we returned our attention to the gourmet meal.

the cheese board 

followed by the traditional French Christmas dessert, 

                                            Bûche de Noël (Yule log)

And to finish off, John left just enough room for a wee cognac!

Happy Christmas!