On a grey and rainy St Nicholas’s night, more than thirty of us from Romandie West got together for some pre Christmas cheer in the welcoming warmth of the Auberge de Founex. There was more than just roast turkey on the menu. All guests were required to sing for their supper with some rousing carols, led skilfully by Pam Walsh with Wolfgang Schutt at the keyboard to keep us (vaguely) in tune. The high spot was a splendid attempt at the Twelve Days of Christmas, ably conducted by Ted Talbot and complete with appropriate actions from the flapping wings of partridges to lords a’leaping and maids a’milking It was a joy to see our two waitresses joining in the carols, amused by our antics.
The Auberge de Founex surpassed itself this year with lavish servings of excellent roast turkey, gratin and cranberry sauce which few of us, if any, managed to finish. And while we made space for dessert, it was time to get into teams for the now annual Christmas quiz. Who knew where poinsettias originated from? Or what brought Frostie the Snowman to life? Or even the date that Christmas cards were invented? Thank you Diana Smith for causing much head scratching and all-round entertainment.
A massive vote of thanks goes to Master of Ceremonies, Pam Walsh, who for the past 3 years, has organised what has become an annual event.
Jan Powell
