Today could quite possibly be the most cheerful, festive day of the year for les française. It's Christmas Eve, and tonight there will be the feast of all feasts, "Le Revillon!" Meaning "to revive" or "to wake", "Le Revillon" is all about three of France's most cherished traditions, Champagne, fois gras, and huitres (oysters), and no hostess would dare forget to offer them! Champagne and chocolates are offered by invited guests - the perfect gift for any fete. The day begins with the hustle and bustle of last minute shopping, but best be finished by 13h or you could be bitterly disappointed. There is a queue of people waiting outside the door of their local boucherie waiting to pick up their freshly dressed dinde, (turkey) the traditional main course, which is served with a chestnut stuffing (marron). Les patissieries are busy as well - of course we must have our baguette du jour, and the cases are full of bouche de noel, or "yule log". Made with a light Genoise (sponge cake) kissed with Grand Marnier and chocolate mocha buttercream, rolled and frosted to resemble a log in the forest, it is the finish to an ultra rich meal - the french literally dare you to rise to their seduction gastronomique! My personal favorite on the menu this evening (other than champagne of course) are raw oysters on the half shell, a pleasure I had not indulged in before moving to Paris. I must admit in my naivité I found them a little scary - but there are certain things in life one must experience at least once, and a freshly harvested #5 huitre from the beds of Bretagne is one of those. Some prefer a splash of lemon as an accompianment, but I like mine with a red wine vinagrette and finely minced shallot - oh la la! I die. It is no wonder that for this day, (only one of two per year) the french smile at their neighbors and wish them a "Bonne Fete!"
