One of the best things about France is its outdoor markets, and every town has one. A centuries old tradition, le marché is the happening place for procuring the week’s privisions and no doubt a good deal of gossip. Like Did you see Pierre? What  was he thinking with that beret…?

In addition to gossip, fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses, there are also condiments, local and artisanal crafts, housewares, and clothing. The humblest items are made into the most artful displays. Leave it to the French to style their radishes, and they do. This is  l’art de vivre at its most quotidian — and most inspiring.

And what, I ask you, is a saucisson without moutarde? Dijon is in Burgundy, as you know. As you may not know, the popular Dijon mustard Grey Poupon was first made in 1777 and named for the two fellows who started it. Today it is made by Kraft.

Speaking of mustard, we were surprised to learn they don’t even grow it in France anymore. In case you missed Postcard No 2, you can read it here. (Scroll down to the last paragraph. The suspense is killing you, admit it. What? You didn’t read Postcard No. 2…?)